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Wednesday, May 5, 2021 - Volume 13, Issue 18

Message from Administration

Thanks for your on-going patience and support as we continue in remote learning. Please continue to encourage your child to participate fully in the learning that is being provided as this will only assist them in their success .

We will provide additional information as it becomes available regarding returning to school. Please continue to follow the direction of Public Health and stay safe during our time apart, as always please reach out to us if you need guidance or have any questions.
May 3-7 is a very special week here at St. Benedict CSS. We are celebrating Catholic Education Week as well as Mental Health Week. Both are vital to us here at St. Benedict and both clearly deserve to be honoured in our school community. Sandra Ayerst (our CYCW) has shared information about Mental Health Week within this edition of the BENN Newsletter. I ask that you give that a read also!

As for Catholic Education Week (CEW), we have shared videos/audio files with classroom teachers and they in turn have shared these with their morning classes online. We started the week by playing a video of Bishop Crosby introducing CEW and then followed that up with daily reflections and prayers led by Fr. Joseph de Viveiros and by Chaplain Bob Rempel. Friday morning will begin with a Liturgy of the Word led by Bishop Crosby. These celebrations of our Faith are shared at the same time (start of the morning classes) in an attempt to give a sense of unity and community when Covid makes these difficult to achieve.

The WCDSB has created a "Nurturing Hope" website. We welcome all of you to peruse the reflections, slideshows, videos, and prayers that are found on this website. We truly are so Blessed to be a part of the Catholic Education system. This week gives us the opportunity to reflect and celebrate this tremendous gift.

Key Dates for Quadmester 4

May 5
Quad 3 Report Card Distribution Date
May 9
Mother’s Day
May 19
BENN Newsletter Release
May 20
Parent/Student/Teacher Conferences
May 21
Turn Around Date for Careers/Civics
May 24
Victoria Day
June 2
BENN Newsletter Release
June 4
PA Day
June 16
BENN Newsletter Release
June 20
Father’s Day
June 24
Period 3 Final Evaluation, 8:00 am
June 25
Period 4 Final Evaluation, 8:00 am
June 28
Assessment and Evaluation/
Credit Recovery
June 30
BENN Newsletter Release
July 12
Quad 4 Report Card Distribution (Mailed)
McCarthys

New Store Hours

Tuesday: 10am – 6pm
Thursday: 10am – 6pm
Saturday: 10am – 6pm
OR VISIT: www.mccarthyuniforms.ca
1-800-668-8261

School Schedule and Calendar

Quick Link to Our Calendar - https://stbenedict.wcdsb.ca/parents/current-students/school-year-calendar/

Our calendar (with Cohort info and key dates) can be accessed through our school website https://stbenedict.wcdsb.ca.

You can then access the calendar by going to ABOUT US > School Year Calendar

Photo Pick Up

We are holding all photo distribution at this time, we will communicate a plan at a later date. Thank you for your patience.




Report Card Distribution

Quad 3 report cards have been mailed. You should expect to receive them later this week.

Updating Contact Information

Please find attached the instructions to verify your child's mailing address in the Aspen student portal.
If your address is incorrect, please email: benedict.attendance@wcdsb.ca with your child's name, proper mailing address along with the postal code. As well, please contact us if you do not have an email address on file or any additional information is incorrect in Aspen.
Thank you for your time, and attention to this matter as we prepare to mail Quad 3 report cards..
Instructions for Verifying Your Address Resend Nov 20 2.pdf

Celebrating Catholic Education Week

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See the message from Bishop Crosby for this year's Catholic Education Week
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The theme of this year's Catholic Education Week is Nurturing Hope. Check out these suggested family activities for nurturing hope.
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We celebrate Catholic Education Week (CEW) the first week of May…today is Wednesday of CEW

Above you will find a video by Bishop Crosby celebrating all the is good in Catholic Education. Perhaps you might reflect this day on how Catholic education has benefitted your student and your family.

CALL TO PRAYER
Our Catholic Education Week theme for today is, “Cultivating Relationships. Today we ask for God’s grace to be mindful that we are called to stand up and speak out against inequity, injustice, and hatred in all forms and that “silence is not an option.”
We pray.

In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

OPENING PRAYER
Lord Jesus, you taught your followers the Golden Rule:, which says, “In everything, do to others as you would have them do to you.” Help us to accept, include and serve one another with love; help us celebrate diversity; give us the courage to speak out and speak up against injustice, inequity and hatred in all forms; help us open our hearts and minds to cultivate new relationships, and to do our part to repair relationships that are fractured. Amen.

SCRIPTURE: Matthew 5:1-2, 7:12
A reading from the Holy Gospel according to Matthew. Glory to you, O Lord.

When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying… “In everything, do to others as you would have them do to you, for this is the law and the prophets.”

CLOSING PRAYER
God, You created all human beings equal in dignity. Move us to create a healthier world without hunger, poverty, violence and war. May our hearts be open to all the peoples and nations of the earth. May we recognize the goodness and beauty that you have placed in each of us that creates bonds of unity, common projects, and shared dreams.

Amen.

St Benedict pray for us.

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

May ParticipACTION

WCDSB parents! We have more free events coming up in May, from Virtual visits with the KPL to Paint Nights to Finding Your Way Back to Being Positive with Nancy Revie.

Sign up here - https://forms.office.com/r/PHPy94F1dj
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Mental Health Week 2021

May 3-7 2021 is Mental Health Week. It is a time for us to reflect on the past year, stressors added related to the pandemic and remote learning and acknowledge that even when we aren’t seeing our own resiliency – holding the knowledge that we are resilient. As individuals and as a community. Mental Health Week is a reminder for us all to take time for ourselves and to reach out to our support systems no matter how disconnected we are feeling.

Students will find that their D2L Student Landing Page will have a new widget on their Nav Bar with links to local supports and resources. There are also daily announcements and animated videos on the topic of well-being.

If you feel that Social Work Support could be helpful to navigate community resources, please talk with Guidance, Vice Principals and/or our Principal.

WEBINAR – The Impact of COVID-19 on the Mental Well-Being of Teens and What Teens Need to Do Well

This presentation is a partnership between Parents for Children’s Mental Health and WRDSB. It will look briefly at the impact of the pandemic on teen mental health…what we hear in the news and what the ongoing surveys are telling us, and we will also hear what some of our youth are saying. This webinar will use a developmental lens to view our teenagers’ typical behaviours to inform us why this pandemic has been so challenging for them, but also to help us reflect on what it is they need and how we can support them.

We will be hearing some reflections from a parent perspective as well as from a teen perspective. Finally, we will point out some resources for accessing mental health supports, as well as for further information and ideas for parents and for young people.

The talk is geared toward parents of tweens and teens, but may be informative for educators and those working with young people and even young people themselves.

Register in advance for this meeting:
https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0pduqprTwiH9C06x3lgkFfYgbFr09j29SM

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
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Additional Supports

WCDSB Mental Health and Well Being Page
As we pivot to remote learning it is important to keep tabs on how we are all coping. Take a look at the Board’s Mental Health and Wellbeing webpage. This is a “one stop shop” where you can find links to targeted resources to promote wellbeing during Covid, examples of meditations/calming strategies to share with students, resources specific to various roles (i.e. leadership, educators, students, families), links to services in our community, and general mental health information. Please help raise awareness about this resource! https://www.wcdsb.ca/programs-and-services/mental-health-and-well-being-at-wcdsb/ A short intro video is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TmJI_QXT8xk

Community Resources
There are also resources in our community that can assist families with navigating mental health supports for themselves and their children.
HERE24/7 is a telephone crisis service that can assist students and adults in need 1-844-437-3247 (Press the #1 option so that it can be answered by a live person).
Front Door is a “walk-in” Service for kids/parents with kids under 18 where they can speak to a counselor. They can be reached at 519-749-2932

Free CBT Based Mental Health Support for Ontario
https://www.mindbeacon.com/
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The Counselling Collaborative of Waterloo Region (https://counsellingwr.ca) is a partnership of 6 local counselling agencies working together to make counselling services more accessible to individuals with a limited income. Fees may be fully or partially subsidized depending on individual circumstances and the service requested. Visit their website or call (519) 804-1097 to book a phone/video appt.

May Mental Health Tip

One of the hardest parts about the pandemic for many people has been a lack of control over decisions that have a huge influence on our lives. We can sometimes get stuck in an unhelpful cycle of re-visiting anger, fear, and frustration related to things that we can’t change right now.
May-MHTip
If you’re feeling stuck take a moment to think about what aspects of this situation both matter and are within our realm of control. We can’t always control what other people do/don’t do, we can’t control how public health guidelines may evolve, but we can control how we care for ourselves, how we maintain meaningful relationships virtually, how we can find new, creative outlets that engage our gifts and abilities, and how much mental energy we will give to pieces that are outside our influence for the time being.

May Study Hacks

You may notice that during the pandemic it’s harder to concentrate, complete assignments, sleep, remember things, and stay organized, which may be connected to the ongoing stress we carry with us during a pandemic. Here are a few tips that can help things get back on track:
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Frequently Asked Question

Is there a cohort-specific schedule?

YES THERE IS!

Cohort A Cohort B

COVID Test/Screening and Outbreak Protocol

All students (or guardians on their behalf) will be asked to engage in a daily self-assessment before reporting to school and anyone feeling unwell or identifying a concern based on their self-assessment should not report to school. COVID-19 School Screening

Once at the school, all students will be required to wear mask at all times. Students are to sanitize their hands upon entering and leaving the classroom.

Operational guidance: COVID-19 management in schools (Ontario.ca)

What to do when my child isn't feeling well?

Read the memo for parents and guardians from the Region of Waterloo Public Health Unit. The document provides direction for parents and caregivers regarding the role of families, Public Health and schools.

Message from Guidance

Summer School

Is available this year as online learning courses through our board at St. Louis Adult Learning and Continuing Education. More information can be found on their website: https://stlouis.wcdsb.ca/summer-programs/summer-credit/
These courses will run from July 5 – July 29. (Half credit courses Careers and Civics Term 1 July 5-15. Term 2 July 16 – July 29).

What is Online Learning?

Online Learning means courses are specifically designed to be taught in a fully online format (formerly referred to as “e-learning”). Online learning relies on communication between pupils and teachers through the internet or any other digital platform and does not require pupils and teachers to be face to-face with each other or with their teacher. Students must be online and working on their course for a minimum of 6 hours a day.
Students may only take one online course or both Civics and Careers half courses.

If you choose to register for summer school, please inform your Guidance counsellor.
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Academics

Attention grade 12 SHSM students!

If you are on track to graduate with their red seal are invited to submit your essay by May 14 for the SHSM grad award. Follow instructions in the link below. https://www.highskills.ca/student-guidance/
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News from Co-Op

Although 2020-2021 has been a different school year with many new challenges, St. Benedict students are still gaining valuable, real-life experiences through Co-operative Education. During Quad 3, 23 students were able engage in Experiential Learning opportunities thanks to placements provided within our community. Students were placed in various industries including Manufacturing, Transportation, Teaching, Website Development, and Pharmaceuticals – just to name a few! After 6 weeks of placement, many students were granted additional work opportunities through their placements. These include:
  • 1 Full-time Apprenticeship offer
  • 1 OYAP Registration to attend Level 1 Trade School
  • 4 Summer Job offers
  • Multiple positive reference letters provided
These numbers show that even during tough times, St. Benedict students truly benefit from participating in Experiential Learning opportunities.

Congratulations to all 23 co-op students from Quad 3 on your successful placement experiences!
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WOC Business Builders - Flyer JAWR (2)
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homeworkclub

Every Wednesday, join Mrs. Borba (Literacy) or Mr. Chaves (Numeracy) ONLINE from 1:45-3:00pm!

JOIN the Google Classroom https://classroom.google.com/c/MjM2MzY1NjE0NDI5?cjc=ojocdyl
or simply CLICK on the Teams Links!!

Click here for: Borba Literacy Meet
Click here for: Chaves Numeracy Meet

Can't WAIT to see you SAINTS online!

News from the Library

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As of Thursday, April 8, 2021 the Ontario Government has placed all of Ontario in a province wide shutdown. To keep our staff and members safe, Idea Exchange is closing our buildings and offering holds pick ups and online services only. Online resources remain available to teachers and students on the St. Bennies Library website.

Did you know….

Idea Exchange Accounts now require a PIN (Personal Identification Number)
As of Tuesday, May 4, 2021, all Idea Exchange memberships will require a PIN (Personal Identification Number) and card number to log into your Idea Exchange account.
This change will increase the security and privacy of your personal library information.
A temporary PIN will be created from the last four digits of the telephone number used for your account. We encourage you to reset your temporary PIN as soon as possible (on or after May 4).
To learn more go to the Idea Exchange website.

Virtual Student Support:

Mon. Wed. Fri. 10am to 2pm
Tues. Thurs 8am to 2pm

Pickup Service:

Monday to Saturday, 10am to 6pm for curbside pickup only.
To learn more about the library's current services, visit the Idea Exchange website.

DIY Kits: Mother’s Day Card

Don’t forget that Mother’s Day is this Sunday, May 9th. Need a card? Why not grab one of our DIY kits that include a card, contrasting backing for the inside, 5 embellishments and an envelope. All you need is a glue stick, and a pen to write a lovely message to your mom!

Each kit is a bit different. Quantities are limited. Pick-up at the Clemens Mill Library front door.
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Clubs

Do you have word?

Hey Saints, did you know that we have started a Spoken Word Club at Bennies?
If you are interested in being a part of a club that inspires new ideas, penetrates the deepest human feelings, and brings out the profound meaning of Spoken Word, then come see us on Thursdays 1:15 - 2:00 pm!
Google Classroom code: ztl66sq
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Student Activities

Co-Prez elections coming soon!

Campaign week is upon us! Next Monday May 10th through Friday May 14th is Campaign Week, a time get to know those students who put their names forth to represent YOU! Be sure to follow @bennies_sac_updates for candidate official Instagram accounts (coming on Friday May 7th) to learn more about their platforms and ideas for our school.

Students are encouraged to be informed and exercise their right to vote! Voting will take place on Friday May 14th via a ballot accessible from your school email. For more information, check out @bennies_sac_updates on Instagram or the Student Council webpage on the school website. Good luck to all our candidates!
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Other News

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Youth Impact Survey

Youth in Waterloo Region between the ages 9 and 18 have the opportunity to participate in the Youth Impact Survey. The Youth Impact Survey was developed in partnership WITH young people in Waterloo Region and asks well-being questions on a variety of topics.

Last summer, the Children and Youth Planning Table, UNICEF Canada, the Canadian Index of Wellbeing, and the Ontario Trillium Foundation partnered to run the pilot version of the Youth Impact Survey in Waterloo Region. The survey included questions about belonging, mental and emotional health, security, protection and other topics. Waterloo Region was the first community in Canada to test out the survey and after getting feedback from the youth who filled it out in 2020, and with a new partner, KW Community Foundation, the survey is running again.

Phase 2 of the Youth Impact Survey includes Waterloo Region and 3 other communities in Canada. (Ottawa, Halton, and Tri-Counties in Nova Scotia). In order for the survey to be a success, Waterloo Region needs 1000 youth aged 9 - 18 to fill it out and the results will help inform the decisions made about programs, services, and supports available to young people. This is an opportunity for young people to feel valued, heard and included.

The 20-30 minute survey is totally voluntary and anonymous and youth who fill it out will receive volunteer hours and a chance to win prizes. Click here for more information.

Calendar of Events

Monday, May 3 to Friday, May 7
Mental Health Week
Catholic Education Week

Wednesday, May 5
Report Card Distribution

Thursday, May 6
8:00am: Period 3 All students Synchronous
9:52am: Period 3 All students Asynchronous
11:10am: Period 4 All students Synchronous
1:02pm: Period 4 All students Asynchronous
1:15pm: Spoken Word Club

Friday, May 7
8:00am: Period 3 All students Synchronous
9:52am: Period 3 All students Asynchronous
11:10am: Period 4 All students Synchronous
1:02pm: Period 4 All students Asynchronous

Sunday, May 9
Mother's Day

Monday, May 10
8:00am: Period 3 All students Synchronous
9:52am: Period 3 All students Asynchronous
11:10am: Period 4 All students Synchronous
1:02pm: Period 4 All students Asynchronous
Tuesday, May 11
8:00am: Period 3 All students Synchronous
9:52am: Period 3 All students Asynchronous
11:10am: Period 4 All students Synchronous
1:02pm: Period 4 All students Asynchronous

Wednesday, May 12
8:00am: Period 3 All students Synchronous
9:52am: Period 3 All students Asynchronous
11:10am: Period 4 All students Synchronous
1:02pm: Period 4 All students Asynchronous
1:45pm: Homework Club
2:00pm: Debate Club

Thursday, May 13
8:00am: Period 3 All students Synchronous
9:52am: Period 3 All students Asynchronous
11:10am: Period 4 All students Synchronous
1:02pm: Period 4 All students Asynchronous
1:15pm: Spoken Word Club

Friday, May 14
8:00am: Period 3 All students Synchronous
9:52am: Period 3 All students Asynchronous
11:10am: Period 4 All students Synchronous
1:02pm: Period 4 All students Asynchronous

Be sure to check out the calendar on the school website for updates!

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