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Wednesday, September 24, 2025 - Volume 18, Issue 4
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Guess what's back?
Hey Saints!
The wait is over and Scratch Cafe is back next week!
Come to the SAC office on Thursday during lunch A and Lunch B to get your giant cookies, pizza and other fresh baked goodies.
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Twenty dollar punch cards are available for purchase in Room 107 on Wednesday during lunch A. If you still have your cards from last year, you can still use them!
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Admin Team
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St. Benedict Instagram
@stbenedictwcdsb
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Did you get your yearbook?
If you did not get your yearbook, please see Ms. Fondacaro in the Main Office.
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Are you a grad looking to pick up your yearbook from last year?
If you can pick it up during the school day, please come to the main office.
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If you need to get someone else to get it for you (sibling or parent), please email Ms. Fondacaro at charlene.fondacaro@wcdsb.ca to let her know who will be picking it up for you, and ask them to pick it up in the main office.
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If you did not order a yearbook last year but would like one, Ms. Weiditch has a limited number of extra copies available for purchase for $31.00. Please see her in room 300 or the English Workroom.
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Daily Schedule
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Students are invited to join UHN’s STEM Talks: Undergrad Panel. Current UHN research students will share their experiences in STEM, including high school course choices, the university application process, extracurricular involvement, and how they became involved in research at UHN.”
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STEM Talks – Undergrad Panel
- When: Thu, Oct 9, 2025 | 11:45 AM–12:45 PM ET
- Where: Online (virtual)
- Who: High school students (Grades 9–12)
- What: UHN research undergrads share how they chose courses, applied to university, joined extracurriculars, and got into research at UHN.”
- More info and registration link here: STEM Talks: Undergrad Panel — UHN STEM Pathways
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Parent Communication guidelines
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When a parent, guardian or other board stakeholder has a concern or suggestion, it is expected that the issue will first be taken up with the staff member with whom the parent / guardian / stakeholder has the concern/suggestion. Therefore, the following process will be followed:
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Stay Informed
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If you haven’t already, click here to subscribe to our school Newswire & BENN Newsletter. Also, please consider following us on Instagram:
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Time to go?
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Have your kids left St. Benedict? Time for you to go as well?
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You are more than welcome to stay, but if no longer wish to receive the BENN Newsletter, unsubscribe here. While we hate to see you go, we thank you for being a subscriber and wish your son or daughter all the best in the future!
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Deadline to order is Monday, September 29
get yours in today!
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Looking for a quick way to navigate all things WCDSB for parents?
Check out the Board website for information and information pertaining to Aspen Portal, Brightspace, School Cash Online, Transportation updates, and other resources
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Who is your Guidance Counsellor?
Welcome back to all our students, we look forward to seeing you again or meeting you for the first time! We hope you had a safe and restful summer and are ready for a new school year.
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We are excited to welcome Mrs. Borba to our team. She will be joining us in Guidance and continuing to work in her role in student success. Mrs. O’Toole will be working with the International students this year.
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Guidance counselor assignments are based on the student’s last name. Please take some time to review guidance counsellors, as assignments have changed.
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Counsellor’s Name
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Ext
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Last names
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Administrative Assistant: Mrs. McAulay-Arruda, ext. 5631
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Post-Secondary Institutions Disclosure of Information Consent Form
If you are planning to apply to College or University this year, you must complete the disclosure form. This will allow us to share your marks with post-secondary institutions. If you do not complete this form any applications, you submit will be incomplete.
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If you are unsure about your plans, please complete the form allowing us to share your marks. If you do apply it will make the application process easier.
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If you are not planning to apply to post-secondary this year, please complete the form and indicate that on the form.
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Information on how to set up an account can be found here
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After you complete the form and check out, you will receive a confirmation email.
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Tip: if you can see the form in your School Cash online account, then it has not been completed.
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SAVE THE DATE - ACADEMIC AWARDS NIGHT
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Thursday, October 9, 6:30pm
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Invitations to award recipients will be sent out by email to parents and students. Students will be required to complete the google form to RSVP to the event. Please RSVP by Wednesday, October 1.
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GUIDANCE D2L
For additional information throughout the year, please visit the Guidance D2L page.
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POST-SECONDARY PLANNING
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Ontario Universities Fair
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Ontario's universities are excited to host a collection of in-person and virtual events in the fall of 2025.
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This event is fair style with booths from Ontario universities; gather information and chat with representatives one on one.
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Can’t make the OUF? Ontario’s universities are coming to you this fall! The Regional Fairs offer fair-style events that allow you to gather information about Ontario’s universities. Learn about programs, campus life and anything else that may help you decide which Ontario university to choose.
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Regional Fairs are held at various locations and dates from September 15 to October 17.
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Locations, dates and times are available on the OUF website
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Waterloo: October 16, 10:00 am to 5:00pm at the University of Waterloo
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The one-stop event for all your college information needs!
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Thursday, October 16, 2025
5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
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Friday, October 17, 20232
9:00 am - 2:00 pm
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This free event is being held at Exhibition Place, Toronto.
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The College Information Program (CIP) will make 30+ stops across Ontario.
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VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
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Guidance is looking for student volunteers to assist with Academic Awards night. We will have two shifts immediately after school and during the event 6pm – 8:30pm (approximately).
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Sign up sheets will be available in Guidance.
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If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to Ms. Varriano Lane or anyone in Guidance.
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Are you interested in the Army or Navy Reserves?
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Representatives will be in the atrium during both lunches tomorrow (Thursday) to discuss co-op and job opportunities with the Army and Navy.
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Robotics Club restart
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Are you interested in designing, building and testing a custom robot? Check out the Robotics Club which will be having its first meeting of the year on Friday after school in room 308.
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Are you looking to Grow in Faith?
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Are you looking for a place to share your faith, and be part of a supportive community? Then you might want to join our group, Grow in Faith. Last year we began as a Bible Study group, and this year we’re expanding to do more, morning prayers, Advent and Lent videos, and helping with liturgies. Our meetings will be Wednesdays, Lunch A and B in the chapel. Come and be part of our community!
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Saints Weight Room Club
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The Saints Weight Room Club will be back in action after the Thanksgiving weekend. The club will run on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays after school in our very own weight room. There is no cost to participate if you have paid your student registration fees. All club members must first signup and submit a signed waiver. Swing by the weight room or room 202 to scan the QR codes for the appropriate forms.” Let's get lifting saints!
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Rowing Club
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The Rowing Club works out at school on dryland rowing machines from February to March, and on the Grand River in the spring! This club is open to anyone comfortable on the water who wants to try something totally new. Competitive opportunities exist in the community for those wanting to race! Speak to Ms Currie or Ms Vorsteveld for information, and look out for a "Try Rowing" workshop this coming May!
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Muslim Students Association
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All Muslim students are welcome to join the Muslim Students Association, aka MSA. We’ll be starting this year by gathering to talk about how we want to organize our events and activities together. Our first meeting will be this Thursday, September 25, during Lunch A and B. The location will be confirmed soon, so please stay tuned for updates. We look forward to seeing you there!
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St. Benedict’s Gender & Sexuality Alliance (GSA)
Our club meets every Tuesday and Thursday at lunch!
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Whether you’re looking for a safe space to hang out, wanting to make new friends, or just curious about what we do, 2SLGBTQ+ students, allies, and anyone who supports inclusivity and kindness is welcome.
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Come hang out, share ideas, and help make our school a more inclusive place for all! We meet each Tuesday and Thursday - Lunch A in Room 125 and Lunch B in the Autoshop! Bring your lunch and a friend. See you there!
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Travel through space and time!
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Attention Doctor Who Club members: our adventures in space and time continue Fridays after school in room 226. New members are always welcome. Check instagram & our school club website for more information.
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Soccer Saints
The Junior Saints FC took down their crosstown rivals in their first game of the season with a great comeback win against the Monsignor Doyle Mustangs. The team took an early lead only to see the Mustangs score the equalizer and take the lead in the second half. The Saints were unfazed and kept fighting and played much better football in the second half, scoring the go-ahead goal in the 70th minute.
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Goal scorers were Bryan Mendoza, Leandro Jardim and Mateo Ornelas. Man of the match was Ronin Vankerrebroeck for his exceptional leadership and tenacious defensive play.
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The boys continued their winning ways with a 6-1 victory over the Chevaliers de Pere Rene. The boys started slow but came to life after Tony Turlea scored a cracker of a goal from well outside the 18 yard box. The boys kept pressing with the game winning goal going to Lorenzo DeFranca.
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Other goal contributions came from Ronin Vankerrebroek, Lamick Aragon and Gavin Devilliers with 2. Man of the match was Spencer Williams for holding the back line and keeping the team composed under pressure.
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The Saints suffered their first loss of the season to the Celtics on Friday. Dom Tavares scored quickly in the third minute of the match giving us the early lead, only to see the Celtics score the equalizer 10 minutes later.
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Anthony Casale helped us re-take the lead in the 30th minute with a gritty little goal down inside the 6-yard box. The Celtics kept pressing and tied up the match just before halftime.
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The Saints looked fatigued after a long week of soccer and struggled to generate any offence, succumbing to the Celtics offensive pressure during the second half with the game ending in a 4-2 win for the Celtics.
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The learning in this loss will serve as a reminder not to take any opponent for granted and that we need to stick to our game plan.
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Man of the match was Lorenzo DeFranca for his tireless play and control of the midfield.
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Sports Results
JUNIOR BOYS FOOTBALL
St. Benedict CSS 44, St. David CSS 24
SENIOR BOYS FOOTBALL
St. Benedict CSS 49, St. David CSS 7
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JUNIOR BOYS SOCCER
St. Benedict CSS 3, Monsignor Doyle CSS 2
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St. Benedict CSS 6, Pere-Rene de Galinee 1
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St. David CSS 4, St. Benedict CSS 2
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Woodland Christian HS 24, St. Benedict CSS 17
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Pere-Rene de Galinee 46, St. Benedict CSS 17
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Rockway MC 57, St. Benedict CSS 27
SENIOR GIRLS BASKETBALL
Woodland Christian HS 47, St. Benedict CSS 32
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St. Benedict CSS 51, Pere-Rene de Galinee 32
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St. Benedict CSS 61, Rockway MC 18
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GIRLS FIELD HOCKEY
St. Mary's HS 4, St. Benedict CSS 0
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Resurrection CSS 5, St. Benedict CSS 0
Monsignor Doyle CSS 3, St. Benedict CSS 0
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Important Senior Boys Basketball Meeting
All boys interested in trying out for the senior boys basketball team please attend a mandatory meeting in room 314 at the start of lunch A on October 1, 2025.
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If you cannot make it please see Mr. Fratarcangeli in the science office before or after school.
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Road to D8 Finals with Senior Boys Volleyball
The Senior Boys Volleyball season has started with a bang—and the Saints are making their presence known on the court.
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So far, the team has competed in three tournaments, and their performance has been nothing short of impressive, going undefeated in two of them.
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The season kicked off at the University of Guelph Tournament, where the boys battled their way to the semi-finals after finishing second in pool play. It was a strong start that set the tone for the weeks ahead.
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Next up was the D8 Pre-Season Tournament, where the Saints left no doubt about their dominance. They went undefeated throughout the day, claiming the championship title for the second year in a row.
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What stood out most wasn’t just the wins, but the way the boys played—with sportsmanship, teamwork, and every athlete contributing to the team’s success.
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This past Friday, the Saints kept the momentum rolling with another undefeated run at their home tournament. Facing strong competition, including teams they’re likely to see again at the next level, the Saints showcased their grit and energy in every set.
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With eyes locked on the D8 Finals, the seniors are hungry to build on last year’s successful 2024/25 campaign. The journey ahead won’t be easy, but one thing is certain: this group knows how to bring the energy, the teamwork, and the determination every time they step on the court.
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Stay tuned—because this season, the Saints are just getting started.
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Exciting News: Spring League & Development Programs This Year!
We’re thrilled to share some exciting news for the 2025/2026 school year in athletics! This year, we’ll be hosting three Feeder School Development/Spring League programs, offering young athletes the opportunity to sharpen their skills, build confidence, and experience the energy of Saints athletics.
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These programs are designed to give future Saints a chance to learn the game, compete, and grow in a fun, supportive environment. Whether athletes are brand new to the sport or looking to take their game to the next level, our development and spring league opportunities are built to help them succeed.The focus will be on:
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- Skill Development – Learning the fundamentals and building strong athletic foundations.
- Teamwork & Sportsmanship – Competing in a positive, inclusive environment that reflects our Saints spirit.
- Game Play Experience – Putting skills into action through league play and real-game situations.
And now for the details—here’s what’s in store this year:
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Saints Basketball Spring League
Our basketball spring league returns for its 18th year! This 10-week program will run from late March through the end of May. Registration opens November 1st on our school website.
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Led by our Boys and Girls Basketball teams, this program is designed to foster a love for the game while teaching fundamental skills and teamwork. With nearly two decades of success, it’s a highlight of the year for future Saints basketball players!
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Saints Volleyball Spring League
Our volleyball spring league is back for its 3rd year! This 5-week program will run in May. Last year’s overwhelming participation showed how much excitement there is for volleyball in our community, so this year we’ll be capping registration at 60 participants.
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Don’t miss your chance—registration opens November 1st. Led by our Girls and Boys Volleyball teams, this program offers athletes an energetic, fun environment to build skills and love for the game.
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NEW THIS YEAR – Saints Track & Field Development Program
We’re excited to introduce something new: the Saints Track & Field Development Program! This 6-week program is designed to help athletes develop and refine fundamental skills across both track and field events.More details will be shared in the BENN and on the school website, but programming will run in the spring. This is a fantastic opportunity for athletes interested in speed, strength, and technique to get specialized development early on.
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We’re so excited to continue building connections with our feeder schools through these programs. With basketball, volleyball, and now track & field on deck, the future of Saints athletics is brighter than ever.
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Stay tuned for registration updates—and get ready to join the energy of Saints Nation!
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Moving from another high school?
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All students interested in playing a sport this year, who are in grades 10-12+ and are new to St. Benedict for the 2025-2026 school year, please see Miss Buhlman in room 325 during periods 1, 2, 4 or in the staffroom periods 3 and 5 to get a transfer form. This MUST be done before joining a team.
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News from the Library
From the Librarian's Desk
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Hey Bennies – we’re in the thick of it! Amid all the stress of essays, exams, and life, don’t forget to find time to relax, breath, and spend time with loved ones. Keep working hard!
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Research Support
Need help finding the perfect source for your paper? The Bennies library offers many amazing online resources, including our research databases JSTOR and Gale. These sites make it easy to find and read high quality academic articles and ace your papers. We also have amazing reference tools for background reading like Source Reference, Encyclopedia Britannica, Science Online, and Blooms Literature.
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For passwords to online content, or for help locating the evidence you need for your essays, contact librarian Ryan at rorr@cambridgepl.ca.
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Generative AI
Generative AI is rapidly transforming education, offering new ways for students to learn, create, and collaborate. From helping brainstorm ideas for essays to generating practice quizzes or even assisting with coding projects, AI tools are becoming a regular part of the high school experience. These technologies raise important questions about academic integrity and responsible use.
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As you explore and experiment with AI in your studies, remember that your school librarian is a great resource. Whether you’re curious about how generative AI works, how to use AI ethically (or whether that’s even possible!), want tips on evaluating AI-generated information, or just want to share your experiences, stop by the library and start a conversation.
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(These paragraphs were written using generative AI, and edited by librarian Ryan!)
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Love to read? Enjoy talking about books, movies, and music? Come to our first Bennies Book Club gathering on Monday, September 29 at 2:30 p.m. in the library’s CreativeHUB classroom.
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Meet fellow book lovers, swap recommendations, and help choose our first group read of the year. Everyone is welcome—no sign-up required!
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Questions? Ask Librarian Ryan at the library desk.
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Wednesday, September 24
2:30pm: Football Pep Rally
2:30pm: Descendents Orchestra rehearsal
2:45pm: Girls Field Hockey @ St. David CSS
3:00pm: Jr. Boys Soccer @ Resurrection CSS
3:00pm: Sr. Boys Volleyball vs St. Mary's HS
3:00pm: Sr. Boys Football vs St. Mary's HS
3:00pm: Jr. Boys Volleyball vs St. Mary's HS
3:30pm: Sr. Girls Basketball @ St. Mary's HS
4:00pm: Girls Field Hockey vs Msgr Doyle CSS
5:00pm: Jr. Girls Basketball @ St. Mary's HS
Thursday, September 25
10:40am: Muslim Students Association
10:40am: GSA Club
12:00pm: Muslim Students Association
12:00pm: GSA Club
2:00pm: Math Club
2:15pm: Concert Band
3:45pm: Jazz Band
Friday, September 26
9:00am: Cross Country Preston Fun Run
10:40am: Cosmo Club
12:00pm: Cosmo Club
2:15pm: Model UN
2:15pm: Ping Pong club
2:15pm: Choir
2:15pm: Doctor Who club
2:30pm: Bouldering Club
Monday, September 29
2:30pm: Descendents Orchestra rehearsal
2:45pm: Girls Field Hockey vs St. David CSS
3:00pm: Jr. Boys Soccer vs ESC Pere-Rene de Galinee
3:00pm: Jr. Girls Basketball vs Resurrection
4:30pm: Sr. Girls Basketball vs Resurrection
Tuesday, September 30
6:30am: Senior Sunrise
10:40am: GSA Club
11:00am: Rosary Club
12:00pm: GSA Club
12:20pm: Rosary Club
2:15pm: Arts Council
6:00pm: Catholic School Advisory Council
Wednesday, October 1
9:00am: Girls Golf: District 8 Championships
9:00am: Boys Golf: District 8 Championships
12:00pm: Junior Guitar Club
1:00pm: Jr. Boys Football @ Resurrection CSS
2:30pm: Descendents Orchestra rehearsal
2:45pm: Girls Field Hockey vs St. Mary's HS
3:00pm: Jr. Boys Volleyball @ St. David CSS
3:00pm: Sr. Girls Basketball vs St. David CSS
3:00pm: Jr. Boys Soccer @ Msgr Doyle CSS
3:00pm: Sr. Boys Football @ Resurrection CSS
3:00pm: Sr. Boys Volleyball @ St. David CSS
4:00pm: Girls Field Hockey @ Resurrection CSS
4:30pm: Jr. Girls Basketball vs St. David CSS
Thursday, October 2
10:35am: Scratch Cafe
10:40am: GSA Club
12:00pm: Scratch Cafe
12:00pm: GSA Club
2:00pm: Math Club
2:15pm: Concert Band
3:45pm: Jazz Band
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Friday, October 3
9:00am: Cross Country Shades Mill
10:40am: Cosmo Club
12:00pm: Cosmo Club
2:15pm: Model UN
2:15pm: Ping Pong club
2:15pm: Doctor Who club
2:30pm: Bouldering Club
3:00pm: Jr. Boys Soccer vs St. David CSS
Sunday, October 5
World Teachers' Day
Monday, October 6
2:30pm: Descendents Orchestra rehearsal
3:00pm: Jr. Boys Volleyball @ Msgr Doyle CSS
3:00pm: Sr. Boys Volleyball @ Msgr Doyle CSS
3:00pm: Jr. Boys Soccer vs Resurrection CSS
3:00pm: Jr. Girls Basketball vs Msgr Doyle CSS
4:30pm: Sr. Girls Basketball vs Msgr Doyle CSS
Tuesday, October 7
10:40am: GSA Club
11:00am: Rosary Club
12:00pm: GSA Club
12:20pm: Rosary Club
2:15pm: Arts Council
Wednesday, October 8
BENN Newsletter release
12:00pm: Junior Guitar Club
1:00pm: Jr. Boys Football @ St. David CSS
2:30pm: Descendents Orchestra rehearsal
3:00pm: Sr. Boys Football @ St. David CSS
3:00pm: Jr. Boys Volleyball vs Woodland CHS
3:00pm: Sr. Boys Volleyball vs Woodland CHS
3:30pm: Sr. Girls Basketball @ Woodland CHS
3:30pm: Jr. Boys Soccer @ St. Mary's HS
5:00pm: Jr. Girls Basketball @ Woodland CHS
Thursday, October 9
9:00am: Cross Country UW Meet
10:35am: Scratch Cafe
10:40am: GSA Club
12:00pm: Scratch Cafe
12:00pm: GSA Club
2:00pm: Math Club
2:15pm: Concert Band
2:15pm: Doctor Who club
3:45pm: Jazz Band
6:30pm: Academic Awards Night
Friday, October 10
PA Day
Monday, October 13
Thanksgiving
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Be sure to check out the calendar on the school website for updates!
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