Principal's Newsletter February 10th

Colonel By has a fantastic reputation for being a school that is active in its local community. Fall is the time when CB students and families work together to collect non-perishable food items and monetary donations for the Gloucester Emergency Food Cupboard (GEFC). The GEFC is a local food bank that provides individuals and families with a 4-day supply of food, serving approximately 2000 clients per month.

CB students and families can make donations to the Fall Food Drive by bringing in non-perishable food items to their 2A classes during the week of September 26th.  We are also providing CB families with the option to make a donation through School Cash Online if that is more convenient.  Monday Sept 26 to Sunday Oct 3, the following gift options will be available:

➔ $5 provides 4 days of healthy school snacks for one child (48% of GEFC clients are under 18)

➔ $20 provides 1 case of milk (the GEFC will go through about 16 cases per week)

➔ $60 provides 4 days of groceries to one person

Please consider donating and helping us continue our meaningful tradition of giving back to our community.

We are also collecting donations in the immediate CB neighbourhood after school on Thursday, September 29th.  Any students interested in volunteering can join the Google Classroom using the code xeayig4 to access more information and the permission form.

Re. Important End-of-Year Information

Dear Students, Parents, and Guardians,

As we start the last few days of the school year, we'd like to remind you of expectations that will help us ensure a safe and comfortable transition to our summer break.

Kindly review this document with your family and feel free to contact the school if you have any questions.

With thanks,

Steve Spidell, Principal

26 May 2022

Re. Alert: School Transportation

Good morning,

As a result of the weekend's storm, many transportation services across the city have been cancelled or will be operating on reduced capacity.

For today, yellow bus routes V-161, V-162, and V-163 are cancelled for their morning and afternoon runs. For up-to-date information about ongoing bus and van transportation, please visit the Ottawa Student Transportation Authority website.

OC Transpo services are running though students should expect delays.

Students who cannot attend school because of transportation issues should have their parents/guardians email cbattendance@ocdsb.ca stating the student's name, grade, date, and reason for absence.

No new evaluations or high stakes tasks will be completed today. Some teachers may be able to provide asynchronous or synchronous instruction so students are encouraged to monitor their LMS (ex. Google Classroom, Managebac, VLE, etc.).

Thank you,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Re. Colonel By open on Wed May 25

Dear Students, Parents, and Guardians,

I know that this has been a trying weekend for many in our community. Several students and staff members have experienced property damage and service outages but, thankfully, we have received no reports of physical injuries.

Tomorrow, May 25th, our school will be open for in-person instruction. However, all van and yellow bus transportation have been cancelled for the time being and OC Transpo will be running on a reduced schedule. As a result, it may be difficult for some students to attend school. Our teachers, who have also been affected by this weekend's storm, will provide in-class instruction for students who are present in person. In some cases, teachers may be able to provide asynchronous instruciton to students who cannot attend. Nevertheless, please be assured that there will be no new content introduced tomorrow and all evaluation tasks will be posponed.

The IB Exam debrief for all IB2 students will be postponed. Updates will be posted on Managebac.

All field trips, extracurricular activities, and interscholastic sports are cancelled for the rest of the week.

Please stay safe, Cougars. Continue to take care of yourselves and one another, sharing in the community spirit that makes Colonel By such a wonderful place to learn, work, and play.

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

17 May 2022

Re. Info for IB Exam Period

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,

As you know, we are in the midst of our IB exam season and I trust that you have found the two or three years of preparation for these evaluations to be beneficial.

I would like to take this opportunity to remind you of the expectations and responsibilities associated with participation in the IB Diploma Programme. This is the same information that was shared by the IB Coordinators to our senior IB classes last month.

Attendance

Students who are writing an exam or studying for an exam may be excused from attendance by having their parent or guardian send an email to cbattendance@ocdsb.ca. The email should state the student’s name, grade, date of absence, and reason for absence (ex. IB exam preparation, IB exam session, etc.).

Examining students who choose to be present at the school during the IB exam period are expected to sign in at the Main Office. If they are present, they are expected to attend all scheduled Ontario classes. For their IB classes, they may work quietly in the atrium or Learning Commons. Students should not be present if they do not intend to focus on school work.

Student athletes who come to school for sports activities should not arrive before their scheduled practice or game time. Should they arrive early, they will be directed to their designated classroom.

Students with a designated spare (ie. no class assigned on their timetable) may work quietly in the atrium or Learning Commons or they may leave the property.

It is important to remember that classes are running throughout the building and we need to respect the learning environment by being quiet and working productively.

IB Exam Debrief Days: All Grade 11 and 12 IB students

All Grade 11 and 12 IB students are expected to attend the IB Exam Debrief Days on Tuesday May 24 (Day 1/3 classes) and Monday May 30 (Day 2/4 classes). Students will follow their regular timetable on these days.

Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the appropriate person below:

• Vice-Principal Anne Corrigan (student surnames A to K) - anne.corrigan@ocdsb.ca

• Vice-Principal Dana Slater (student surnames L to Z) - dana.slater@ocdsb.ca

• IB Coordinator Lewis Harthun - lewis.harthun@ocdsb.ca

• IB Coordinator Jennifer Lee - jennifer.lee@ocdsb.ca

I wish all of our IB diploma candidates the very best of success in their exams!

Thank you,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Re. News from Colonel By SS

Dear Students, Parents, and Guardian,

The latest edition of our newsletter is now available. Please click here to see it or visit the School News section of our website.

Thank you,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Re. Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test - week of April 25 for certain students

Dear Students and Families,

Grade 10s are scheduled to write the OSSLT (Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test) on Tuesday April 26th (part A) and Thursday April 28th (part B) during their 1A classes. The 1A blocks on those dates have been modified for the entire school to provide the time accommodation for the test. 

Students will find out which classroom they are writing the OSSLT in from their 1A teacher.  Ms. Wallace will also be posting it on the Learning Commons Google Classroom and outside the Vice-Principals' offices.

The OSSLT is written over two morning sessions.  Each morning, students will complete a 1 hour test on a Chromebook provided by the school.  All students have access to extra time up to 1.5 hours for each session and English Language Learners will have 2 hours.

Students can use headphones to use the text-to-speech function.  Students who have their own headphones are asked to please bring them to school for the OSSLT.  Headphones will be provided for students who do not bring their own.

Students will remain in their class for the duration of 1A.  When they finish the OSSLT they will be asked to work on something quietly until the class is dismissed at the end of the period.  

What can students have access to during the test?

During the test, students have access to the following:

• A school provided Chromebook

• Headphones for listening to the test questions

• A supply of pens or pencils and paper for rough work

• Water bottle and snack

Support materials are available for all students once they log in to the online OSSLT. A set of accessibility tools is located in the student toolbar. These tools are available to every student taking the OSSLT:

• A help menu  

• A text-to-speech function that reads the text on the screen out loud  

• Zoom in and zoom out capabilities

• A line reader that helps students focus on one line of text at a time 

• A high-contrast view

• Annotation tools (highlighter, line and eraser) 

• A tool for rough notes

All students will also have access to virtual breathing exercises, reminders of test taking strategies and other minds-on activities to help them as they take the modernized OSSLT. 

Students have been preparing for the OSSLT in their English, Math, Science and Canadian History classes. Students can also practice the OSSLT using the following practice test.

We encourage you to contact Anne Bigham, Head of English (anne.bigham@ocdsb.ca) or Jancey Wallace, Head of Library Services (jancey.wallace@ocdsb.ca) if you have any questions.

- Thank you from Colonel By Secondary School

Re: Student Well-Being Info Evening - April 13, 2022

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,

You are cordially invited to join your School Council's annual Student Well-Being Information Evening on Wednesday April 13, 2022 at 6:30pm. The event will take place online using Google Meet. For more information about the event, and to access the Google Meet link, please check out our brochure by clicking here.

We hope to see you there!

- Your Colonel By School Council

Re. News from Colonel By Secondary School

Dear Students, Parents, and Guardians,

We're pleased to share some news and information, as well as one important action item with respect to student transportation. To access the newsletter, please click here.

Thank you,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Re. News from Colonel By SS

Dear Students, Parents, and Guardians:

Welcome to March! Please take a look at our latest newsletter by clicking here. For more information, please visit our website or contact the school.

Have a great day!

Steve Spidell, Principal

Re. News from Colonel By SS

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,

Transportation - As you know, yellow bus and van service is cancelled today because of inclement weather and poor road conditions. OC Transpo will continue to run on its regular schedule but you may expect delays. The school remains open.

Curling Tournament - Today's NCSSAA Curling tournament has been cancelled. Coaches will contact students about 

Grad Photos - All grad photos and photo retakes that were scheduled for today have been cancelled. Notices will be sent directly to students by the photography company with information about next steps.

Math Contest - Today's math contest will still take place. Students who are attending school today will write in person. Students who are unable to attend school will be able to write virtually. Information will be emailed to all participants during first period this moring.

Attendance - If students stay home because of cancelled transportation or inclement weather, we ask that their parent or guardian send an email to colonelbyss@ocdsb.ca with the name and grade of the student as well as the reason for the absence.

Please feel free to contact the school if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Re. Report Cards and Parent-Teacher Interviews

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,

Later this afternoon, the second report card of the 2021-2022 school year will be distributed to parents and guardians by email. In order to access the report cards, you will need the student's Ontario Education Number (OEN). This number can be found on previous report cards or on a student timetable. Should you have difficulty accessing the OEN, please feel free to contact the school.

In order to provide greater flexibility, and to protect the health and safety of our families and faculty, Parent-Teacher interviews will continue to be conducted virtually, by appointment, February 14-17, 2022. Interviews may take place by telephone or Google Meet. You do not need to have a Google account in order to use Google Meet. If a student is demonstrating difficulty meeting curriculum expectations, teachers will be reaching out to parents, inviting them to a parent-teacher interview. If you do not hear from a teacher, you may assume that the student is currently meeting Ministry of Education standards for academic achievement. However, parents are always welcome to contact teachers directly to request an interview, regardless of a student's level of achievement. Contact information for all staff members can be found on the Faculty page on our website.

Thank you for being our partner in your child's education. We look forward to working with you in the interest of student success.

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

3 Feb 2022

Re. Course Selection Info for 2022-2023

Dear Parents and Guardians,

You are invited to join us for an information session about course selections for the 2022-2023 school year. This session will take place via Google Meet and is open to parents and guardians of students currently in grades 9-11. For details on how to join the meeting, please see the attached file.

We hope to see you there!

Sincerely,

The Colonel By Student Services Team

Parent Guide for Course Selection 2022.pdf 

Re. Alert: New Timetable as of Feb 7, 2022

Dear Students, Parents, and Guardians,

Effective Monday February 7th, we will be switching to four classes per day. February 7th will be a Day 2 so students will attend their 2A and 2B classes in the morning and their 2C and 2D classes in the afternoon.

Please click here for important information to help support you and your family with this important transition.

As always, please feel free to contact the school if you have any questions.

Thank you,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Dear Students and Families,

This afternoon, each Colonel By student was provided with two take-home rapid antigen test kits. The test kits were provided by the Government of Ontario, and are intended for use by any student that attends a publicly funded school, regardless of their vaccination status.

Please read the important information below prior to using the rapid antigen testing kit.

When to Use the Rapid Antigen Test Kit

The Rapid Antigen Tests have been provided proactively and are to be used when:

• a student is exhibiting  symptoms and is required to self isolate, or
• is a household contact of someone with symptoms and is required to self-isolate.
• Where an individual is experiencing  symptom(s) and does not have access to a PCR test or RAT, the individual is presumed to have COVID-19 based on their symptoms.

Using the Take-Home Rapid Antigen Test Kit

Please follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer and use the following resources:

• How to test yourself with BTNX Rapid Response™ COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test
• Videos: Rapid antigen testing for asymptomatic students (Available in multiple languages)
• Ottawa Public Health - Frequently Asked Questions about Rapid Antigen Testing

Parents or guardians may choose to administer the test on children who may need help.

What to do after your test

• If the student receives two negative results on tests taken at least 24 hours apart they may return to attending school as usual. Even if the  test result is negative, students should continue to adhere to all relevant public health guidance, such as guidance on gathering, distancing, and masking.
• A positive result on a rapid antigen test is considered a preliminary positive and your child should self-isolate in accordance with these guidelines.

While providing students with rapid antigen test kits is an important tool for managing the spread of COVID-19, it is also important to remember that we all need to continue with key public health strategies that have been effective in keeping this pandemic under control, including staying home when sick, getting vaccinated, getting tested if you have symptoms, washing your hands frequently and wearing a face covering as required.

Thank you for your ongoing cooperation in following public health guidelines and helping to keep our school safe.

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Re. School Year Calendar (Feb-Jun 2022)

Dear Parents/Guardians,

As you know,  the OCDSB, with the support of Ottawa Public Health and in accordance with direction from the Ministry of Education, has indicated that secondary schools are to plan for a return to a 4-period day by the beginning of February 2022. This is a highly anticipated step towards a more regular school day for OCDSB secondary students.  At Colonel By, our revised calendar is scheduled to begin on 7 February 2022.

The calendar for the start of the 2021-2022 school year took into account the need for classes to be ready to move to a more familiar structure at a variety of points in the school year. Now that the date is confirmed, additional considerations have been integrated into the planning for this anticipated change at the non-semestered schools. This includes an effort to offset the instructional time between the classes that fall on Day 1 and Day 2. The updated calendar also takes into account input from Ottawa Public Health, whose guidance limits student cohorts to a maximum of four at this time.

We listened to our students, staff, and families and your feedback informed our planning. We are pleased to share that the plan includes a graduated shift from 2 classes per day to 4 classes per day and will ease transition stress for students. Students will attend the same four classes over a two-week period then switch to the other four classes for the next two week period. Our revised calendar reduces the time between instructional blocks; supports students to have increased processing time for new learning; reduces the daily volume of homework/subject; and provides regular access to designated support periods. With the elimination of June exam days, our students have 10 more instructional days overall.

Thank you for your continued support of Colonel By Secondary School and your student(s) as we worked through this process. The online version of the School Year Calendar for Colonel By Secondary School and Merivale High School will be updated in the coming days. In the meantime, you may access the attached document to see how the calendar will be laid out.

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Revised 2022 Feb-June Full Year School Calendar CB & MHS.pdf 

Is your child preparing to begin high school in September 2022? We're here to help your child explore options, discover pathways and develop the skills and characteristics needed to be successful in high school and in life.

Virtual Parent Information Night: February 7, 2022 at 7:00pm

We will be holding a virtual parent information session, where you can learn about the exciting pathways available for your child’s future, interact with staff at our school, and ask questions. Click the button below to join us live on February 7, 2022 at 7:00 p.m.

Have questions about our high school program? Fill out this questionnaire before or during the information night. We will do our best to answer your questions during the livestream.

A video recording will be available following the event.

LEARN MORE ABOUT HIGH SCHOOL

For more information about our high school program, please contact us, or visit ocdsb.ca/highschool to learn more and access helpful tips and resources on program pathways, course selections, and more.

Re. ALERT: OCDSB Schools Closed January 17

Dear Students, Parents, and Guardians,

With a major snow storm headed to the Ottawa area, the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board is shifting to remote learning for all students, including students in specialized education program classes, on Monday, January 17, 2022. 

There will be no in-person learning at OCDSB schools on this day. Parents will be asked not to bring students to school on Monday.

The OCDSB has been monitoring the weather forecast over the past 24 hours. Environment Canada has issued a winter warning for the Ottawa area with heavy snow accumulations between 30 and 40 cm and possibly higher in some locales. The snow will be accompanied by 35-to-50 km/h winds, reducing visibility and creating hazardous travel conditions. The City of Ottawa has declared a significant weather event and has advised all residents to avoid and postpone all non-essential travel until conditions improve.

Please check your student's learning management system for information about synchronous and asynchronous learning opportunities.

Please avoid any unnecessary travel. OCDSB school buildings will be closed for the day. Students and staff will learn and work remotely.

If necessary, further announcements regarding cancellations of specific events happening in OCDSB schools today will be shared via email, the OCDSB website and Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts.

Thank you,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Re. Return to In-Person Learning

Dear Students, Parents, Guardians,

As we prepare for tomorrow’s return to in-person learning, we would like to share some important information and updates with you. We will be maintaining most of the health and safety protocols that were in place before the winter break and we will be modifying a few others. Kindly review this message with all members of your family to help maintain a safe place to learn, work and play at Colonel By.

Thank you,

Steve Spidell, Principal

School Council Welcomes Superintendent of Instruction on January 18, 2022

Colonel By has a large and active School Council that meets several times each year. The Council serves as an advisory body to the Principal and is open to students, parents, guardians, staff, and community members. The next meeting will take place on Google Meet on Tuesday January 18, 2022 from 7:00-8:00pm. To access the meeting, please click here or visit the calendar item on the school calendar at www.colonelby.com

We’re pleased to announce that Superintendent Mary Jane Farrish will join our meeting to share updates from the Board and to answer questions from students and parents. If you have questions that you’d like to share with Ms. Farrish before the meeting, please send them in using this form, and she will address them at the January 18 meeting. There will also be opportunities to pose questions during the meeting.

We hope you can join us!

Sincerely,

Your Colonel By School Council

Re. Remote Learning - Jan 2022

Dear Students, Parents, and Guardians,

Happy New Year! Please click here for some important information regarding our move to remote learning for January 5 to January 14, 2022.

As always, the Colonel By staff remains at your service. Please reach out to us if we can be of any assistance during this latest change in program delivery.

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

15 Dec 2021

Re. News from Colonel By SS

Dear Students, Parents, and Guardians,

Our last newsletter of 2021 is ready for your viewing and it can be accessed by clicking here. Enjoy!

As we approach our holiday break, I wish you all the best of the season. May 2022 bring peace, joy and good health to all of us.

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

19 November 2021

Re. News from Colonel By SS

Dear Students, Parents, and Guardians,

We're pleased to share our most recent newsletter with you today. It contains important information about life at Colonel By so we encourage you to check it out. You can access the newsletter by clicking HERE.

Have a great weekend, Cougars!

- Steve Spidell, Principal

19 Nov 2021

Re. Report Cards and Parent-Teacher Interviews

Please note that student Report Cards will be sent home through School Messenger on the afternoon of Tuesday Nov. 23. Please be sure to check your email.

Parent-Teacher Interviews will take place virtually during the week of Nov. 22-26 in the evenings. Please note for this round of reporting teachers will be initiating contact only with parents of students where there are concerns but parents are welcome to reach out to teachers if they have questions or concerns. 

Thank You.

Re. News from Colonel By SS

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,

Check out out latest newsletter by clicking here.

Have a great weekend!

Steve Spidell, Principal

Re. News from Colonel By SS

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,

We're pleased to share with you our latest newsletter. You can access it by clicking here.

Have a great weekend!

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Re. Reminder: School Council Annual General Meeting

Dear Parents and Guardians,

This is a reminder that the 2021-2022 Annual General Meeting of the Colonel By Secondary School Council will take place on Tuesday October 12, 2021 at 7:00pm.

For important information on what will take place between now and then, including important information about how to join Council as a voting member, please click the Notice of AGM below:

CLICK HERE > Notice of Annual General Meeting 2021-2022

We hope to see you there!

- Carla Bonora-Cianciaruso and Hui Cong, School Council Co-Chairs for 2020-2021

Dear Students, Parents/Guardians,

As a school community, we recognize the importance of engaging in learning activities to raise awareness and understanding of the devastating impact of Canada’s residential school system. This is a vital part of our commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s (TRC) Calls to Action.

Since 2013, Orange Shirt Day has been observed on September 30th to honour the lives and experiences of Indigenous children who endured the residential school system in Canada. Last spring, the federal government enacted legislation recognizing September 30th as a federal statutory holiday commemorating National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This action was in response to Truth and Reconciliation Commission's (TRC) Calls to Action #80. Please note, this is not a statutory holiday in Ontario and schools will be open, with learning activities taking place. However, some Indigenous families may decide to keep their children home on that day to engage in activities with family and community. Indigenous self identification is a confidential process and should not be understood as a requirement for students to be away from school on this important day. There is no expectation that students who are away from school on this day participate in any school-related activities. Teachers have also been asked to not schedule tests or make assignments due on September 30th.

This meaningful day signals a year-long, ongoing commitment to learning that centres the truth of the harmful effects of colonialism, including the residential schools system that caused the loss of Indigenous lives, languages and traditions for generations. 

How Colonel By Secondary School is participating in the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Learning activities planned for September 30th will focus on developing student and staff understanding of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action and commemorating those whose lives were impacted by residential school experiences. Below are some of the ways this day will be recognized at Colonel By include:

• Opening exercises featuring music, stories, and a solemn recognition of the day's significance;

• an address by Algonquin Knowledge Keeper Monique Manatch and a land acknowledgment by OCDSB Director of Education Camille Williams-Taylor, which you may join by clicking this link at 10:30 am on September 30th;

• age appropriate learning activities to deepen understanding of truth and reconciliation; and

• a closing message offered by Ms. Manatch, which you may join by clicking this link at 2:00 pm on September 30th.

We encourage you to review the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action and Spirit Bear's Guide to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada Calls to Action (Youth friendly language outlines the 94 calls to action).  You may also visit the OCDSB National Truth and Reconciliation Day webpage to learn more about:

• How the OCDSB is marking this day

• Actions parents and students can take

• Community and mental health resources for Indigenous students and families

Questions may be directed to me at steven.spidell@ocdsb.ca.

Thank you,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Re. Colonel By School Council Annual General Meeting

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We are pleased to announce that the 2021-2022 Annual General Meeting of the Colonel By Secondary School Council will take place on Tuesday October 12, 2021 at 7:00pm.

For important information on what will take place between now and then, please click the Notice of AGM below:

click here > Notice of Annual General Meeting 2021-2022

We hope to see you there!

- Carla Bonora-Cianciaruso and Hui Cong, School Council Co-Chairs for 2020-2021

Re. News from Colonel By SS

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,

I'm pleased to share our latest newsletter with you. It contains lots of important news and information, including a few "action items" for parents! To access it, simply click here.

Have a great day!

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

14 Sep 2021

Re. COVID-19 Positive Case

Dear Students, Parents, and Guardians,

I am writing to inform you that an individual associated with Colonel By Secondary School has tested positive for COVID-19. Attached to this message is a letter from Ottawa Public Health (OPH) which explains their investigative process and provides information about next steps. Please note that all persons deemed high-risk contacts will receive direct communication by phone and/or email from OPH before the end of the day today. Parents are encouraged to check their email today and into this evening.

Please note that we are unable to share any information beyond that which is included here and in the attached letter. Should you have questions about the OPH response after you have reviewed this message, please contact OPH directly. In the meantime, please stay safe and continue to follow all recommended health and safety protocols. A friendly reminder: students must complete the COVID-19 self-assesment every day before attending school.

Thank you,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Colonel By Secodnary School Staff - Parent - Personnel - Sept 14, 2021.pdf 

Re. School Bus Route V-162 on Tuesday September 14

We have received notice from the Ottawa Student Transportation Authority (OSTA) that Route V-162 has been cancelled for this afternoon's service due to a driver shortage. Students will be able to take their bus to school today but they will need to find alternative transportation to get home after school. We expect that normal service will resume tomorrow but encourage you to monitor the OSTA website for any last-minute changes.

The Ottawa region has been experiencing bus cancellations due to a severe driver shortage. To read a statement from OSTA regarding the bus driver shortage, please click here.

Bus and van service are managed by OSTA and changes of this sort are beyond the control of the school. For questions or concerns related to school transportation, please contact OSTA directly.

Thank you,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Reminder: Information Sessions for Current IB Parents

Dear IB Families,

We would like to welcome parents, guardians, and students to our IB Programme grade orientation events which will happen virtually this year. Please join us on the date that corresponds to the grade that is relevant to the student this year. We will be discussing what to expect during the year in the IB programme as well as key information related to each specific grade. There will be a brief question period at the end of each presentation. 

IB Grade 9 -- Student and Parent Orientation
Wednesday, September 15 · 6:00 – 7:00pm
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/qbx-bpmx-ozc

IB Grade 11 -- Student and Parent Orientation
Wednesday, September 15 · 7:30 – 8:30pm
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/gkt-oemj-sfc

IB Grade 10 -- Student and Parent Orientation
Wednesday, September 22 · 6:00 – 7:00pm
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/nyo-ffqr-arw

IB Grade 12 -- Student and Parent Orientation
Wednesday, September 22 · 7:30 – 8:30pm
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/azq-wjmx-uzi

We look forward to seeing you!

We have received notice from the Ottawa Student Transportation Authority (OSTA) that Route V-162 has been cancelled for this afternoon's service due to a driver shortage. Students will be able to take their bus to school today but they will need to find alternative transportation to get home after school. We expect that normal service will resume tomorrow but encourage you to monitor the OSTA website for any last-minute changes.

The Ottawa region has been experiencing bus cancellations due to a severe driver shortage. To read a statement from OSTA regarding the bus driver shortage, please click here.

Bus and van service are managed by OSTA and changes of this sort are beyond the control of the school. For questions or concerns related to school transportation, please contact OSTA directly.

Thank you,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Re. Emergency Services

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,

This afternoon, shortly before dismissal, one of our students experienced a medical emergency. Paramedics were notified and the student was attended to on school property. During this event, we called for the school to be secured by students and staff. This process, called a "Secure School", sees everyone move out of the hallways and our classroom doors are closed. All other normal activities continue in the building but a Secure School ensures that the corridors are clear so that paramedics can move quickly to where they are needed. I would like to thank our students and staff for responding quickly and appropriately during this emergency.

Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Re. News from Colonel By Secondary School

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,

We're very much looking forward to starting up the new year! We have some important information to share with you in our first newsletter of the 2021-2022 school year and hope that you will review it over the next few days. To access our newsletter, please click here.

Please feel free to contact the school if you have any questions or concerns.

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Re. End-of-Year Bulletin #3

Dear Students, Parents, and Guardians,

Our final end-of-year bulletin is ready for you to review. Please see the attached file or click here to access to bulletin. It includes important information about the end of the year, news about student achievements, year-end performances, and summer opportunities.

We wish you a safe and relaxing summer!

Sincerely,

Colonel By Secondary School

End-of-Year Bulletin #3 (30 Jun 2021).pdf 

21 Jun 2021

Re. End-of-Year Bulletin #2

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,

We are sharing our second end-of-year bulletin with you today. You may access it through the attached PDF file or by clicking here.

Thank you,

Steve Spidell, Principal

End-of-Year Bulletin #2 (21 Jun 2021).pdf 

15 June 2021

Re. End-of-Year Bulletin #1

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,

As we enter the last few days of the school year, we're pleased to share some important information for students and their families. To access that information, please see the attached file or simply click here.

Reminder: There will be no remote support period offered during the afternoons of June 21st and June 22nd. The last instructional day of class will be June 22nd. June 23, June 24 and June 25 are scheduled PA Days and there will be no classes for students on those days.

I would like to take this opportunity--the first of many to come--to thank you for your support throughout this very challenging spring.

With thanks,

Steve Spidell, Principal

End-of-Year Bulletin #1 (June 2021).pdf 

3 June 2021

Re. Remote Learning Continues

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,

As you are likely aware, the Ministry of Education has announced that Ontario secondary school will remain in a remote learning stance for the remainder of the 2020-2021 school year. I recognize that this announcment was met with a variety of reactions and I understand that the current learning model in our province is not ideal. Nevertheless, please be assured that Colonel By we will continue to offer effective and engaging learning opportunities to our students right up until June 22, the last day of classes. Our daily schedule will stay the same as it has been since the start of Octomester 8. For details, and a repeat of our May 25 message, please see the attached file or simply click here.

I know that yesterday's announcement has raised a number of questions for our students and their families and I will be providing an update early next week that should help to address them. In the meantime, please reach out to our teachers and support staff for assistance at any time.

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Newsletter - 2021-06-03.pdf 

Re. Commencement 2021

Dear Graduating Students and Families,

We are very much looking forward to celebrating the Class of 2021 and I'm pleased to share our plans for Commencement in the attached letter. Alternatively, you can click here to access the letter.

I will be sharing further communications in the coming days but I wanted to get this message out as soon as possible so that you can save the date!

Thank you,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Commencement 2021.pdf 

20 May 2021

Dear Students, Parents, and Guardians,

Re. Start of Octomester 8 - May 21, 2021

Today marks the last day of Octomester 7. Students will begin Octomester 8 (Day 7 and Day 8 classes) tomorrow. Please see attached for some important information about the Octomester 8 teaching and learning format. You may also click here to access this information.

Please continue to monitor email for important updates.

Thank you,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Newsletter - 2021-05-20.pdf 

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,

Re. Change of Learning Mode for 2021-2022

As you may be aware, the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board is providing an opportunity for families to change their choice of learning mode (in-person or remote) for the 2021-2022 school year. For information about this process and its associated timelines, please see the attached file or simply click here.

Please do not hesitate to contact our Student Services Department if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Change of Learning Mode for 2021-2022.pdf 

Dear Students, Parents, and Guardians,

Re. News from Colonel By SS (6 May 2021)

We hope this message finds you safe and well during this latest phase of our community's pandemic response. I'm pleased to share with you our latest newsletter. You may access it by clicking here or by downloading the attached file.

Take care, Cougars!

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Newsletter - 2021-05-06.pdf 

We are so excited to invite you to participate in our board-wide Relay For Life! The pandemic has forced many schools to miss out on this amazing event, so OCVSS has decided to bring the event to a virtual stage! We are eager to provide all OCDSB students with a chance to take part in this impactful event FOR FREE! Relay For Life 2021 will run on May 28th from 2:00-4:00 PM, and you don’t want to miss it!

To get to know more about Relay, how the event will run this year, and how to register, please watch our Relay Rally video, posted at the following link:

RELAY RALLY VIDEO 

REGISTRATION:

To register for OCDSB Relay For Life, visit THIS LINK

1.    Search for your school’s team and click “JOIN”.

2.    If you already have a Relay account, log in. If not, create an account to join.

3.    Participation in the event is FREE, but we encourage you to fundraise and support our cause!

4.    The first 200 students to register will be entered into a raffle for one of four $25 gift cards of their choosing!

SURVIVOR STORIES:

If you are currently battling cancer, or are a survivor, we want to hear from you! We would love for you to share your story on our event day as a pre-recorded interview. If you’re interested in sharing, please fill out the following form before May 7th:

SURVIVOR STORY FORM 

PERFORMANCES & ENTERTAINMENT:

If you’re a singer, dancer, stand up comedian, or any other type of entertainer, we want to showcase your talent in front of OCDSB at our Relay For Life in May! We’re searching for exciting performances, up to 5 minutes in length, that will be pre-recorded and shared at our event. Please understand that our event is only two hours long, so we won’t have enough time for everyone’s performances. To submit an act, please fill out the following form before May 7th:

PERFORMANCES FORM

Don’t forget to register for Relay For Life, tell your friends about it, and follow our Instagram account for more updates @ocdsbrelayforlife!

You don’t want to miss out on this event!

Stay happy and healthy, 

OCVSS Student Council & The Canadian Cancer Society

An application is required for all students, even if you selected the course on Xello. Applications will be available on April 29th at the information meeting and on colonelby.com. Applications must be completed by Wednesday May 5th.

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,

Re: Remote Learning beginning on Apr 19, 2021

On Monday April 19, students and staff will return to a remote learning model, as per the orders of the Ontario government.

Please see the attached documents, or click here, for information about what to expect in the coming days and weeks. Please remember: we have a dedicated team of Guidance Counsellors, Student Success Teachers, and Learning Support Teachers who work in partnership with you and our classroom teachers to serve and support our learners. Do not hesitate to reach out to a member of our Student Services team at any time. Contact information can be found here.

I wish you and your families safety and happiness as we begin this latest phase in our education community's response to COVID-19.

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Remote Learning - Apr 2021 (Students).pdf 

Re. IB Exams - May 2021

Dear Students, Parents, and Guardians,

I have received many inquiries about our plans for the May 2021 administration of the IB Exams. Your patience has been appreciated as we worked with Ottawa Public Health and the International Baccalaureate Organization to establish a plan that balances health and safety priorities with the academic well-being of our students.

Given the provincial government’s 28-day stay-at-home order that was enacted today, and the rise of COVID-19 cases in Ottawa, it has been determined that IB exams will not take place for examining courses this year. This decision likely raises a number of questions for you. I have tried to address some of them in a letter than can be accessed in the attached file or by clicking here. I also encourage you to contact me or our IB Coordinators if you have any questions.

Thank you,

Steve Spidell, Principal

IB Exams - May 2021.pdf 

Re. Third Annual Student Well-Being Information Evening - April 8, 2021

Dear Students, Parents, and Guardians,

Your School Council is pleased to offer its third annual Student Well-Being Information Evening on April 8 from 6:30-9:00pm. The event will take place online and will feature Dr. Michael Cheng and Amelia Eaton from CHEO. For more information about our guest speakers, please click here or see the attached file.

This event is open to everyone in the Colonel By community. To assist with our planning, we ask that you kindly RSVP using this link.

There are three easy ways to join the meeting on April 8th. Simply click on the meeting link the attached file, access the link on the Colonel By Public Calendar, or click here.

We look forward to working with you in support of student well-being!

Sincerely,

Your Colonel By Secondary School Council

Student Well-Being Event - Apr 8, 2021.pdf 

22 March 2021

Re. Cancellation of OSSLT

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,

Please see the attached letter for an important update on the 2021 administration of the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT). Alternatively, you can click here to view the letter.

Thank you,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Cancellation of OSSLT.pdf 

Re. COVID-19 positive case (21 Mar 2021)

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,

I am writing to inform you that an individual associated iwth Colonel By Secondary School has tested positive for COVID-19. Attached to this message is a letter from Ottawa Public Health (OPH) which explains their investigative process and provides information about next steps. Please note that all persons deemed high-risk contacts will receive direct communication by phone and/or email from OPH before the end of the day today. Parents are encouraged to check their email today and into this evening.

I recognize this is the second message I have sent you this week with respect to COVID-19 but OPH has indicated that they do not believe the two cases are connected.

Please note that we are unable to share any information beyond that which is included here and in the attached letter. SHould you have questions about the OPH response after you have reviewed this message, please contact OPH directly. In the meantime, please stay safe and continue to follow all recommended health and safety protocols.

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

1 - Single Case Letter - Colonel By - Staff - Parent - Personnel - March 21, 2021.pdf 

17 March 2021

Re. Newsletter, March 17, 2021

Dear Students, Parents, and Guardians,

The latest newsletter from Colonel By is ready for you! To access it, please open the attached file or simply click here.

Thank you,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Newsletter - 2021-03-17.pdf 

5 March 2021

Re: Student Learning for 2021-2022

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The 2021-2022 school year is quickly approaching and we need to hear from you so that we can prepare our welcoming activities for students in September.

Attached to this message, you will find a letter with important information to help you and your family make some important decisions about school attendance in September. You may also access the letter by clicking here.

We ask that you read over this letter and complete the embedded google form no later than 11:59pm on Sunday March 14, 2021.

Should you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact the school or visit the OCDSB website.

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Student Learning 2021-2022.pdf 

Re: Course Selections for 2021-2022

Dear CB Students, Parents, and Guardians:

It is course selection season. Students are choosing their courses for next year in XELLO online. This year we are not requiring a paper copy of the course selection with a parent signature--for that reason, we request that you please look at your child's course selections in XELLO with them to ensure that you approve the choices.

There are several course selection resources available on the CB Guidance page 

Due to some challenges with XELLO, we are extending the DUE DATE for course selections to Wednesday, March 10th.

Guidance counsellors are available to answer questions and help with course selection. Please email us or connect using one of the options below:

COURSE SELECTION QUESTIONS?

GUIDANCE HELP

Weekdays - February 22nd to March 12th - 2:00-3:15pm

Google Meet Nickname: Course Selection IB

Google Meet Nickname: Course Selection Ontario

Schedule a virtual appointment www.colonelby.com/guidance.html/guidance.html 

Go to BOOK NOW and select a meeting time.  

You will be sent a Google meet link before your appointment.

Dear Parents and Guardians,

In previous years, we have used a paper booking system for our parent-teacher interviews. I'm pleased to let you know that we've taken our booking system online! Here's all you need to know:

Parent-Teacher Interviews will take place on Thursday February 25th with a range of timeslots available between 2:30pm and 7:30pm.

All interviews will take place by telephone or Google Meet.

To book an appointment with a teacher, please click here or visit www.schoolinterviews.ca and enter the event code zgxfy.

Unfortunately, given the size of our student population, we are rarely able to accommodate all requests for interviews. Nevertheless, our teachers are happy to schedule an alternate opportunity to chat on the phone or by Google Meet at a time that is mutually convenient. Teachers' email addresses can be found on the Faculty page of our website.

We look forward to welcoming you, virtually, on February 25th!

Thank you,

Steve Spidell, Principal

16 Feb 2021

Dear Students, Parents, and Guardians,

The OCDSB continues to experience issues with the Report Card Portal for secondary students at certain schools. As such, we will be printing hard copies of Report #2 and providing them on Wednesday February 17 (Cohort B students) and on Thursday February 18 (Cohort A students).

Please be assured that the delays in issuing report cards has not affected our scheduled transmissions to the Ontario Universities' Application Centre or to the Ontario Colleges Application Service.

We apologize for the inconvenience and thank you for your patience.

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

10 Feb 2021

Re: Connectivity Issues with OCDSB Report Card Portal

Dear Students, Parents, and Guardians,

It has been brought to my attention that families are experiencing connectivity issues with the OCDSB's Report Card Portal. This seems to be affecting all schools in the District and central staff is working to rectify the situation as quickly as possible. I can assure you that there is no impact on our scheduled transmissions of data to the Ontario Universities' Application Centre or to the Ontario Colleges Application Service.

You can expect communications from the District with an update soon. In the meantime, please do not hesitate to contact me or our Student Services Department if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

10 Feb 2021

Dear Students, Parents, and Guardian,

I'm sharing our latest newsletter with you. Today's issue contains important information about report cards for the first half of the school year, and course selection for the 2021-2022 school year. I encourage you to review this newsletter and connect with the school if you have any questions.

You can access the newsletter by clicking here or by opening the attached file.

I wish you all the very best on this sunny February day!

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Newsletter - 2021-02-10.pdf 

Dear Students, Parents, and Guardians,

As you are likely aware, Colonel By students will return to in-person learning on Monday February 1, 2021. Please review the attached file or click here for important information to help you and your family prepare for this important transition.

The Colonel By faculty is very much looking forward to safely welcoming all of the Cougars back to the den! Until then, have a wonderful weekend.

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Newsletter - 2021-01-29.pdf 

Dear Students, Parents, and Guardians,

Our next newsletter is ready and I'm pleased to share it as an attachment to this message or you can simply click here.

Stay safe, Cougars!

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Newsletter - 2021-01-25.pdf 

19 January 2021

Dear Parents, Guardians, and Community Members:

On behalf of the Colonel By Secondary School Council, I share this reminder of our meeting tonight: January 19, 2021 at 7:00-8:00pm. Sandra Schwartz, OCDSB Trustee for Innes/Beacon Hill-Cyrville will be our guest for this evening's meeting.

The meeting will take place virtually using Google Meet. It can be accessed using this link or through today's calendar item at www.colonelby.com. When you click the access link, you will be prompted to provide your name and/or email address.

School Council serves as an advisory body to the Principal and welcomes students, parents, staff and community members to work collaboratively in the best interest of our school. For more information, you can visit the School Council website.

We look forward to seeing you this evening.

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Today, we welcomed our students and staff back to a new calendar year and to yet another instructional delivery model. This model ensures that the OCDSB is following the expectations set out by the Ministry of Education and Ottawa Public Health. Throughout the day today, our teachers have been reaching out to their Day 7 and Day 8 students to share expectations for teaching and learning from January 5th to January 22nd. At this time, we are expecting a return to in-school learning on January 25 but as you know, this may be changed as local and provincial COVID-19 realities evolve.

Please see the attached document for some more information about what to expect over the next three weeks. We have a dedicated team of Guidance Counsellors, Student Success Teachers and Learning Support Teachers who are here to serve and support our learners. Do not hesitate to contact our Student Services office at 613-745-9411 to be connected with a member of this team.

I wish all of our Colonel By community the very best as we embark on this latest adventure in education.

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Remote Learning (Jan 2021).pdf 

Dear Parents and Guardians,

I hope this message finds you well and safe during our very unusual holiday break. I apologize for another interruption during this time of relaxation and rejuvenation but it is important that I share the information in the attached letter so that you and your family may begin planning for our return to remote learning on January 4, 2021.

Please review the attached file and feel free to reach out to me or to your child's teachers if you have any questions. Our staff will be returning to work on January 4.

I wish you and yours the very best as 2020 draws to a close and send you warm wishes for a happy new year!

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Parent Message (31 Dec 2020).pdf 

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Please accept my apologies for intruding on your holiday break.

Today, I received notice from Ottawa Public Health (OPH) that an individual associated with Colonel By Secondary School has tested positive for COVID-19. Following their investigation, OPH determined that the individual was not present in the school while they were contagious. As such, there was no risk to students or staff at the school.

Please see the attached letter for more information from OPH and kindly note that I am unable to share any details beyond those included herein.

I wish you the very best this Christmas Eve and hope the entire CB community stays safe during the holiday break and throughout our January remote learning. Wash your hands, wear a mask, and limit social interactions. We will beat this!

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Colonel By Secondary School - Staff - Parent - Personnel - Letter - Dec 24, 2020.pdf 

Dear Parents and Guardians,

You can review our latest newsletter by clicking here or by opening the attached file. Please take a look through it for some important information and updates.

On behalf of the entire Colonel By faculty and staff, we wish you the very best of the season and a happy new year!

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Newsletter - 2020-12-18.pdf 

14 December 2020

Dear Parents and Guardians,

I am writing to inform you that an individual associated with Colonel By Secondary School has tested positive for COVID-19. Attached to this message is a letter from Ottawa Public Health (OPH) which explains their investigative process and provides information about next steps. Please note that all persons deemed high-risk contacts have received direct communication from the school and will receive direction from OPH in the coming days.

I recognize that this is the second message I have sent to you this week and that may be distressing to you and your family. OPH has indicated to me that they do not believe the two cases are connected. You may be interested to know that in the context of schools, the Ontario Ministry of Health defines an outbreak as "two or more lab-confirmed COVID-19 cases in students and/or staff (or visitors) in a school with an epidemiological link, within a 14-day period, where at least one case could have reasonably acquired their infection in the school (including transportation)". Accordingly, one person testing positive for COVID-19, or even multiple people testing positive, would not necessarily meet the definition of an "outbreak".

Please note that we are unable to share any information beyond that which is included here and in the attached letter. Should you have questions about the OPH response after you have reviewed this message, please contact OPH directly. In the meantime, I encourage you to help stop the spread of COVID-19 by following safety protocols such as: frequent hand-washing, the wearing of a mask, practicing social distancing, and completing the COVID-19 daily self-assessment before sending your child to school.

Thank you,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Colonel By Secondary School - Staff - Parent - Personnel - General - Dec 14, 2020.pdf 

Dear Parents and Guardians,

I am writing to inform you that an individual associated with Colonel By Secondary School has tested positive for COVID-19. Attached to this message is a letter from Ottawa Public Health (OPH) which explains their investigative process and provides information about next steps. Please note that all persons deemed high-risk contacts have received direct communication from the school and will receive direction from OPH in the coming days.

Please note that we are unable to share any information beyond that which is included in the attached letter. Should you have questions about the OPH response after you have reviewed this letter, please contact OPH directly. In the meantime, please stay safe by following all appropriate COVID-19 protocols. Wash your hands frequently, wear a mask, practice social distancing, and complete the daily COVID-19 self-assessment before attending school.

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Colonel By SS - Staff - Parent - Personnel - General - Dec 13, 2020.pdf 

Dear Colonel By Families,

Colonel By SS has a strong reputation of giving to our community throughout the school year – we thank you for all your efforts which made our Virtual Fall Food Drive a success this past fall!

December is time of year when we normally come together to collect the fixings for a “Holiday Hamper” for a community family in need. As in the fall, current guidelines prevent us from collecting physical donations but we will be collecting monetary donations through School Cash Online. 

All donations raised this holiday season will be split among three different community pathways. The Shepherds of Good Hope provide amazing services and support to vulnerable families in Ottawa. The Gloucester Emergency Food Cupboard prepares holiday baskets for patrons accessing their food service.  Lastly, we will provide “Holiday Hampers” for our own CB families in need this year.

The program will run from Monday, Dec. 7th to Wednesday, Dec. 16th, with the following donation choices available on School Cash Online:

$5 donation    |    $20 donation    |    $75 donation – this is the amount we traditionally target for a whole “Holiday Hamper”

Let’s show the community that while we cannot visit and celebrate in person, we can still share our holiday cheer and send hope for a better 2021.

With thanks from Colonel By Secondary School

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Please click here to access today's newsletter. It contains importation information about report cards, inclement weather, student events, and much more! Past issues of our newsletter can be found on the Colonel By website.

Thank you,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Dear Colonel By Graduates,

It's hard to believe that eight months have passed since we last learned, played and laughed together at Colonel By. Like you, I was disappointed that the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted our plans to recognize you--the Class of 2020! Despite our high hopes for an in-person Commencement ceremony, the current situation will not allow for it. Instead, we will be offering a virtual Commencement ceremony.

Please take a look at this letter to learn more about what's planned. I'll also ask that you share this widely with other members of Colonel By's Class of 2020 just in case they've missed it or if they've updated their contact information since leaving CB.

We look forward to celebrating with you soon.

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Attached, please find this week's newsletter. Have a safe and happy Hallowe'en weekend!

Spookily yours,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Newsletter - 2020-10-30.pdf 

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Attached, please find our most recent newsletter. All the best to you this sunny Friday afternoon!

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Newsletter - 2020-10-23.pdf 

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Today, I received confirmation from Ottawa Public Health (OPH) that an individual attending or working at Colonel By Secondary School has tested positive for COVID-19. I have been working closely with our Public Health Nurse throughout the day and have received reassurances that the individual was not at school while they were contagious, which means there was no risk of transmission to others in the school.

This is a good opportunity to remind parents that the COVID-19 self-assessment must be completed by students every day before coming to school. Further, we must continue to observe health and safety protocols by always wearing a mask at school, practicing effective hand hygiene and maintaining physical distance from others.

The attached letter from OPH tells you what you need to know. For more information about COVID-19, please visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca and feel free to reach out to the school if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Colonel By - Staff - Parent - Personnel - Letter - Oct 22, 2020.pdf 

Dear Parents and Guardians,

This is a reminder of this evening's IB Information presentations for parents/guardians of Grade 11 and Grade 12 IB Diploma candidates. You can join the Zoom Webinar or view the live stream on YouTube. Links are below.

GRADE 11 IB Parent Presentation: October 22 @ 6:15pm

Webinar Link: https://ocdsb.zoom.us/j/96293581621?pwd=OVRVSVc1U1FsbVYwcjBEQm9uWHdEUT09

YouTube URL: https://youtu.be/LvftPBmA7ns

GRADE 12 IB Parent Presentation: October 22 @ 7:30pm

Webinar Link: https://ocdsb.zoom.us/j/98571226714?pwd=T1pGaS9OSFF3b0I0bUxpT1d5MVY3UT09

YouTube URL: https://youtu.be/dE1wtDPwxUE

Please note that YouTube participants will not be able to pose quesitons using the Chat or Q&A feature.

Thank you from your IB Coordinators!

Lewis Harthun (lewis.harthun@ocdsb.ca) and Jennifer Lee (jennifer.lee@ocdsb.ca)

2 Oct 2020

Dear Parents and Guardians,

School Councils bring together the parent community and enhance the communications between the school and the school community. This is accomplished by providing feedback and advice to the Principal and the District on significant education issues, and by planning activities that support the active participation of parents/guardians and the school community.

Colonel By has a large and active Council that is eagerly preparing for its first meeting of this school year. The meeting will take place on Google Meet on Wednesday October 14 from 6:00-7:00pm. At this meeting, the election of the Council and its Officers will take place. Any parent or guardian of a student attending Colonel By can be elected as a parent member of School Council. In addition, parents and guardians of students enrolled in Ottawa-Carleton Virtual School are eligible to seek election to a position on the school council at their child's home school, where an insufficient number of parents or students attending in person have put their names forward for election.

In the coming days, we will be sharing information about the nomination and election process for our parent representatives as well as the Officer positions (Co-Chairs, Treasurer, and Secretary). We encourage you to consider this opportunity to contribute to life at Colonel By and hope to see (virtually) on October 14.

Sincerely,

Your Colonel By Secondary School Council

Dear Parents and Guardians,

This week's newsletter is attached to this message. Please take some time to review it with your family. As always, you are welcome to contact the school if you have any questions or if we can be of service.

Have a great weekend!

Steve Spidell, Principal

Newsletter - 2020-09-25.pdf 

Message from Student Services:

Timetable changes can be requested by completing the Course Change Request form found on www.colonelby.com under School News.  Due to our octomestered timetable, and the mandated size of class cohorts, course changes are not always possible. Only essential changes will be considered.

The deadlines for course changes affecting Octomester 1 courses already in progress are:

Grade 9:  September 18th - end of day

Grades 10-12:  September 23rd - end of day

Virtual guidance appointments can be made on the Guidance section of our school website (www.colonelby.com-->admin-->guidance).

Guidance counsellors can also be reached by email. Please visit www.colonelby.com to access email addresses.

Thank you from your Student Services Team

11 Sep 2020

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Let me begin by thanking you for sharing your Colonel By students with us this week!  We've now seen our Grade 9 students twice and our students in Grade 10-12 joined us on Thursday (Cohort A) and today (Cohort B). It was very exciting to see our Cougars back in the building and I received loads of glowing feedback from students as they left at the end of their instructional period!

We have shared information with our students about the format and structure of our octomestered school year calendar. I have attached a calendar to this message with an explanatory note about how to read the hard copy of a timetable. If you have any questions at all, please don't hestiate to reach out to a member of our Student Services team:

Ms. Badgery (jill.badgery@ocdsb.ca) - Students with surnames A to H

Ms. Storey (sarah.storey@ocdsb.ca) - Students with surnames I to Q

Ms. Nakashoji (rachel.nakashoji@ocdsb.ca) - Students with surnames R to Z

I'll be sharing more news and information with you in the coming days but for now I'll wish you a great weekend.

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Colonel By Cleaning Protocols

5 Sep 2020

Dear Parents and Guardians,

On Tuesday September 8, students will begin returning to school. COVID-19 has changed the way we live our lives and will be changing the way we do our jobs. We have received some inquiries about the cleaning protocols that have been established at Colonel By to ensure that the places where we learn, play and work are clean and safe every day. Here is a detailed plan of what you can expect to be taking place through the day and evening.

Priority Work: The focus of our Care Staff will need to be cleaning and disinfecting before all other tasks.

Public Health Nurse: Ottawa Public Health nurses will be visiting the school to review our safety protocols and practices starting next week.

Care Staff Safety: All Care Staff will be provided disposable medical-grade masks, face shields and gloves. Care Staff will not enter classrooms or other learning spaces when students are present.

Enhanced Cleaning: The Enhanced Cleaning tasks outlined below are a requirement from Ottawa Public Health and must be completed during the day while the school is occupied. These tasks take priority above all other tasks except emergencies.

Common Areas: A full pass through the entire school twice a day--once after students enter and again after the mid-point of the learning block--to wipe down all the touchpoints with wipes saturated with Oxivir Tb. Care Staff will address all the common areas, hallways, stairwells and the elevator. These touchpoints include exterior door knobs/handles, interior door knobs/handles, railings, panic sets, doors that need to be pushed open, water fountains, and elevator buttons.

Washrooms:  Twice a day (once when students go into class in the morning and again after their break). All the washrooms will receive a disinfection cleaning twice per day--once after students enter the building and again after the mid-point of the learning block. This requires all garbage to be picked up and toilets flushed, all stalls and urinals to be open and available to be used and checking that there are paper towels, toilet paper and hand soap in all dispensers. All counters, sinks, dispensers, and touchpoints will be wiped down using a yellow microfiber rag and Virex II 256 disinfectant. All toilets and urinals will be wiped down with a red microfiber rag and Virex II 256 disinfectant.

Classroom Cleaning Supplies: A spray bottles of Virex II 256 and paper towels will be available in all classrooms and will be checked and/or refilled as required before students arrive.

Evening Cleaning: The evening Care Staff is required to disinfect every desk and vertical surface with a green or blue microfiber rag and Virex 256 II disinfectant. All touchpoints in the classrooms will be cleaned with a wipe saturated with Oxivir Tb or PREempt RTU. Diversey Stride will be used for all floor care. Diversey Glance and paper towels or squeegee will be used for all glass and mirrors. Plexiglass and glass partitions will be disinfected each evening.

These strict cleaning protocols will help us all to stay safe and reduce the risk of spreading the COVID-19 virus. We hope that you find this information helpful and will take some time to share it with the Colonel By students in your home. I encourage you to contact the school if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

School Newsletter September 4th

31 Aug 2020

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Please note that this message applies only to students who will be completing in-person learning at Colonel By SS.

Students requiring course changes must complete the Course Change Request 2020/21 - Return to School form on the CB website under NEWS.  (http://www.colonelby.com/).  

ONLY essential pathway course changes will be considered at this time. Because of the current circumstances, it is unlikely that elective changes and changes requested after the school year begins will take place.

If you have questions about essential pathways courses, please consult   https://www.ontariouniversitiesinfo.ca/ and https://www.ontariocolleges.ca/ or contact your guidance counsellor (http://www.colonelby.com/guidance.html). 

Sincerely,

Your Student Services Team

September Update

14 Aug 2020

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Let me begin by thanking you for your messages and feedback over the past several days. These are unprecedented times. Usually I would respond to each email personally. For those who have asked very specific questions regarding your child that fall outside the bounds of the information in this message, please be assured that you will receive a personal response as soon as possible. However, given the time-sensitive nature of our back-to-school planning, I want to address some of the most common questions that have arisen, so that parents and guardians have the most robust information possible before making a decision on their child’s return to school.

I do acknowledge that many of our students have travel arrangements that require substantial time (in some cases exceeding the 55 minute lunch and transition time) for them to make their way to and from school. The in-school instruction period is scheduled from 9:15 to 11:45am, culminating in student dismissal to return home. The afternoon remote learning schedule is split into 2 blocks, with the 12:40-1:55pm period being for students to complete homework, take part in asynchronous learning and/or connect with their teachers. The 1:55-3:15pm period is scheduled to be real-time remote learning. Please be assured that we will work with our staff to ensure that no student is disadvantaged by missing instruction due to their commute time. No synchronous lesson delivery or time-bound learning activities will be delivered until the 1:55pm real-time learning block, at which time attendance will be taken. My apologies if that was not made clear in previous communications.

For more detailed information about the Ottawa Student Transportation Authority’s plans for bus and van services, I encourage you to visit the OSTA website.

Student timetables are not available at this time. Once we have received information from the district about what parents and guardians have chosen for their child’s return to school, we will be creating cohorts as outlined in the district plan, and then finalizing timetables for students. More information will be forthcoming about when and how these timetables will be distributed.

We continue to receive support and guidance from central OCDSB staff and the IB Schools of Ontario. We are continuing to develop plans that will help us to deliver the high quality of educational programming you have come to expect from Colonel By Secondary School and all of its secondary pathways.

I recognize that you and your family are trying to gather information that will help with your decision to select in-school or remote learning for the start of the 2020-2021 school year. As the OCDSB works to refine its Return to School plan, you will continue to receive updates. In the meantime, you can access the most up-to-date information on the OCSDB's Return to School web page and its FAQ page which can be accessed here.

Please note: The OCDSB has extended the deadline for parents to choose between in-person and remote learning to midnight on August 16. Parents and guardians may make their selection using the Confirmation of Attendance Form. I recognize that this is a very challenging decision for you and your family. My advice to parents and guardians is to make the best decision you can given the information you have at hand.

I wish you the very best this weekend and look forward to welcoming our students to the 2020-2021 school year. In the meantime, please continue to reach out to me or our Vice-Principals (larry.ruch@ocdsb.ca and anne.corrigan@ocdsb.ca) with questions and feedback.

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

12 Aug 2020

Dear Parents and Guardians,

In my previous communication, I committed to providing you with more details on Colonel By's Return to School plan. As I mentioned, our octomestering model will be very similar to the quadmestering model that will be used in semestered schools but with a few differences. Attached to this message, please find a document that helps to answer some of the questions that you are likely asking yourself as you try to determine whether in-school learning or remote learning is best for your family's circumstances.

I encourage you to continue monitoring the OCDSB's Return to School webpage as it is being updated regularly and includes a helpful FAQ page.

Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Colonel By Return to School 2020-2021.pdf 

11 Aug 2020

Dear Colonel By Parents and Guardians,

You recently received a message from the OCDSB regarding your plans for learning for your Colonel By student. 

At Colonel By, students will work on two courses at a time in a structure that mirrors the “quadmester” model shared by the OCDSB. We are currently developing a school-specific plan. We know that this is a key piece of information for families to have ahead of choosing for your child to learn in person or online/remotely.  

We look forward to sharing more specific details as we get closer to the start of school in September.

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

Dear Graduates, Parents and Community Members:

24 June 2020

Dear Graduates, Parents and Community Members:

It is with great pleasure that I announce Rica Qiu will be the Valedictorian for the Class of 2020.

Rica's involvement in extra-curricular clubs and athletics, her leadership in the community, and her strong academic standing have earned the respect of her peers and the faculty alike.

We look forward to Rica's address to the graduating class at our Commencement ceremony in the fall.  (Date and location to be determined.)

Congratulations, Rica!

Sincerely,

Steve Spidell, Principal

OCDSB Student Recognition Award Recipient - Tip Finless