September 2023
Dear CVMS Parents/Guardians/ Caregivers:
Welcome back! We hope that everyone had a safe and relaxing summer holiday. This fall, as we step into a new school year, we look forward to re-engaging our students in a safe, welcoming and inclusive learning environment. Your children’s success will be a result of a true partnership between home, the school and the community. We are here to support all our students to be successful and reach their full potential, regardless of their background or personal circumstances.
We have had the chance to meet some of our parents and guardians and have been busy working with our staff on innovative ideas to engage our students. Most of all, we are truly enjoying getting to know our wonderful students at this amazing school. Community partnership is important for the growth of a vibrant school. We are excited to be leading a group of caring and talented staff at Cummer Valley. The school is full of positive energy with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. I have already witnessed innovation and a collaborative team spirit in many activities that engage our students.
The demands of the 21st century require an innovative approach to education to fully prepare students for post-secondary school, career paths, and global citizenship. We strive to not only focus on academic excellence but also promote the long-term development, success, and the well-being of children. This includes a strong focus on inquiry-learning in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math), Literacy and Physical/ Outdoor Education. We believe that student leadership and global citizenship is crucial and developed through striving for mutual respect and engaging in experiences that challenge our status quo. We look forward to supporting this work with new and returning staff to build capacity in our students.
At the beginning of every school year, our projected enrolment determines the organisation of the teachers and classes. Much care was taken to create these balanced classes with teams of staff after consideration of many factors. We encourage all students to keep an open mind and embrace new academic and social experiences. In middle school, we strive to support our students in the development of new friendships, independence, responsibility, and citizenship for high school.
Please remind your child to be ready and lined up for entry by 8:50am. Our School Day begins at 9am sharp!
If your child is to be absent from school, please email cummervalley@tdsb.on.ca or call the school at (416) 395-2260 and press the #1 key for the Absence Reporting. You will then be able to leave information about your child’s absence – please provide a reason. A note should accompany the student upon return to school and be given to the Core teacher. If you are picking up your child or dropping them off after regular entry time, please sign them in or out in the office. This is an important process to ensure your child’s safety.
Together with our School Council Chairs from the previous year, Emily Laughridge, we hope more parents will join the school council and get involved in building our school community. Our first school council meeting will be held after school on Tuesday, September 26th. Look forward to meeting you!
Have a wonderful weekend!
Yours in partnership,
Esther Leung Tou
Abbass Champsi