John Wanless Junior Public School

Current News

Upcoming Events

Dec 7th- CITY Carol SING with JW participating

Dec 9th- Day 5
Dec 9th- After-4 Programs: LAST WEEK
Dec 9th- Boys' Volleyball Team at Glenmorgan PS
Dec 10th- SUB Lunch
Dec 10th- PRIMARY CONCERT at 6pm
Dec 11th- JUNIOR CONCERT at 6pm
Dec 11th- Staff Appreciation Lunch provided by the School Advisory Council
Dec 12th- Caring & Safe School Committee Meeting at 8AM
Dec 13th- Dufflebag Theatre Performances for our students in the AM
Dec 15th- LEGO ROBOTICS TEAM at Western Tech for competition


The past week saw our FOOD, BOOK and CLOTHING DRIVES continue with many contributions coming in. Our Choirs continued their intense rehearsals in advance of both this coming Saturday's performance as well as the upcoming Winter concerts. Our Robotics Team also continued their practices with several additional sessions before next week's competition. Our boys' volleyball team won every single set in their opening tournament and will be playing in the quarterfinals next Monday. House Leagues finished this week. On Friday morning, Mr. Sturm's Grade 6's entertained our junior school by performing Literary Crossroads. Many thanks to all the parents who joined the audience. Our three OISE teacher candidates also wrapped up their stay at John Wanless today.


The coming week will see the conclusion of all after-4 programs. Tuesday will bring our next SUB Lunch-the last one before the winter break. Our Food and Book Drives will continue throughout the week as well. On the athletic scene, our boys' volleyball team will be playing their first playoff game on Monday morning. On the Arts scene, our two concert will take place starting at 6pm on Tuesday and Wednesday nights. Our Caring & Safe Schools Committee Meeting will take place on Thursday morning. On Friday morning our students will also have an opportunity to see theatrical presentations performed by the Dufflebag Theatre.

Music Update
John Wanless’ Grade 6 Chamber Choir has been invited back to sing at this year’s 16th annual  CITY CAROL SING TOMORROW , December 7th. This collaboration with Yorkminster Park and Citytv is in support of the Churches on-the-Hill Food Bank (COTH) and other food banks across Canada. Every dollar donated at the concert goes directly to the food bank feeding the hungry. The Grade 6 Chamber Choir, along with professional choirs, brass ensembles and special guest artists, will provide the music and entertainment, lifting the roof with carols and song while raising funds for food banks. The free and in-person concert starts at 2pm and will end at approximately 4pm. Come out and support food banks across Canada and our very own Grade 6 Chamber Choir!
 

Music Committee Information regarding the upcoming Winter Concerts
Here are some answers to common asked questions regarding the John Wanless Holiday Concerts.  Please take a look at the below as you will probably find the answers to your questions.  However, if you still have any additional questions, please feel free to email the music committee at johnwanlessmusic@gmail.com.
 
(1) When do tickets go on sale?
- If your child is in grades 1-3, they will be part of the Primary Concert on Tuesday, December 10th at 6pm.  Tickets for this concert became available starting on Tuesday, November 26th, 2024 at 9pm.
- If your child is in the grade 4-6 and in one of the choirs (Junior Choir, Grade 6 Chamber Choir, Grade 5/6 Band or Strings), they will be part of the Junior Concert on Wednesday, December 11th at 6pm.  Tickets for this concert became available starting on Wednesday, November 27th, 2024 at 9pm.
 
(2) How do I know which night to come to the concert?
If your child is in grades 1-3, they will be participating in the Primary concert, which is on Tuesday, December 10th.  If your child is in the grades 5/6 Band, Grade 5/6 String Ensemble, the Junior Choir (Grades 4-6) or the Grade 6 Chamber choir,  they will be participating in the Junior concert, which is on Wednesday, December 11th.  If your child is in grades 4-6, but not in any of the above things, they are not in either of the concerts.
 
(3) How do I get tickets for the concerts?
The concerts are free to attend.  However, you will need to reserve tickets.  
 
If you child is in the Primary concert (grades 1-3), please visit the following link starting on November 26th, 2024 at 9pm: 
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/john-wanless-primary-holiday-concert-2024-tickets-1076352492279
 
If your child is in the Junior concert (see above for who is performing), please visit the following link starting on November 27th, 2024 at 9pm:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/john-wanless-holiday-junior-concert-2024-tickets-1076353364889
 
**What do I do if it says that tickets are sold out?
We know you are all very eager to see the show.  If the tickets are showing as sold out, please try again in a few minutes.  Some tickets might free up.  At the same time, please leave us an email with the subject title " John Wanless Junior/Primary Concert - Waitlist" and let us know how many tickets you need (1 or 2).  We definitely don't want anyone to miss the concert so we will figure out a way to get you to the concert. 
 
(4) Do I need to buy tickets beforehand or can I walk in and get them at the door?  Do I need to print out my tickets?  
You will need to have reserved a seat in order to attend the concert.  Please see links above to get your tickets.   You do NOT need to print out your tickets, but you will need to be able to show that you have tickets (usually you can show the tickets on your device).
 
(5) Is it assigned seating or is it first come first serve the night of?  
When you purchase your tickets, you will have the ability to choose your seats or one will be assigned to you.  You will need to sit in the seats that you have reserved.  There is no ability to choose the night of.  This means you will not need to come early to reserve your seats.  
 
(6) Does my child need a ticket?  
Your child does not need a ticket, but they will also not have their own seat.  They are welcome to come and sit on your laps, as long as they are supervised at all times.  The children will have already seen the show earlier that week during the dress rehearsal.  If your children comes, please ensure that they are supervised at all times and are not running up and down the aisles. 
 
(7) Why can't I get more than 2 tickets?  I want to bring the grandparents!
We have set the limit at 2 tickets per family because we have very limited space and a lot of students and families who want to enjoy the Spring Concert with their kids.  John Wanless is a very big school and even with the concerts split up between the grades, the gym is packed.  This causes a safety concern when people are blocking the aisle and the exits.  We know that grandparents and other family members also want to see the concert.  However, we want to ensure that everyone has the chance to have some family members there.   
 
(8) If my child is in the concert, do they need a ticket?
No, if your child is participating in the concert, they will not require a ticket.  
 
(9) If we can't come to the concert, will there be some way for me to still see the performances?
Yes.  The show will be video recorded and the recordings circulated after the show.
 
We hope that you were able to address your questions in the answers above.  If not, we will be in touch.
 
Thank you for your continued support and we look forward to celebrating the Holiday season with you!
 
Most sincerely,
The Music Committee

JW Food Drive: December 2nd -13th


Our Grade Six House Captains are running a food drive to support North York Harvest Food Bank.

Why: The high cost of living has resulted in a huge increase in Toronto families relying on food banks. 1 in 4 people who rely on food banks are children. In the last year, there were almost one million more food bank visits than the year before. 

What We can do to Help:
You can help by bringing the MOST NEEDED items to North York Harvest Food Bank…

Grains, Cereals and Pasta
Canned Vegetables
Canned Tomatoes
Canned Fish
Cooking Oils

DO NOT BRING IN EXPIRED FOOD!

Where to Bring Food:
Look for your house colour donation box in the big gym foyer. If your house colour fills their donation box, you will earn 500 points for your house!
If every house fills their donation box you can earn a bonus double recess on the last day of school
So let’s rally for a really long recess and lend a helping hand!


Eco Team Update

Thank you to everyone who has brought in shoes for our shoe drive!  One more week to go and then it is time to weigh and deliver the shoes!  Bring in shoes, boots, sandals, etc.  Any type of footwear is appreciated!  Next week we will be working on an eco code for the whole school.  We are asking for input from the students.  Please see this video for more information about what an eco code is. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TYXfDM5XldE

We are now up to about 50 pounds of batteries!  Keep up the good work!  We have also collected 15 pounds of pet food packaging!  Please continue to bring in pet food packaging, dead batteries, dead markers, lids, snack wrappers and shoes!  Let's continue to keep as much out of landfills as possible!


Caring & Safe Schools
Our next meeting date will be December 12th at 8AM in the office. An agenda will be circulated to all members a week prior to the meeting date.

Reminder to Report Student Absences via Absence Line

This is a friendly reminder to report your child’s absences exclusively through our absence line at 1-833-250-2290. Please avoid calling the school office for absences, as all attendance reporting should go through the absence line to ensure accurate records. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.


Lunch Supervisors Urgently Needed
We are once again looking to fill five lunchroom supervisor positions. If you enjoy working with children and are flexible enough to be at school from 11:15 -12:30 each day, please reach out directly to school administration.

Parking on Fairlawn
Should you need to drive to drop your child off at school, we kindly ask that you do not block any driveways. With the ongoing construction parking is at a premium and therefore we kindly ask for your cooperation on behalf of our neighbors. Many thanks in advance!


Important Information RE: Fifth Disease
There has been one reported case of Fifth Disease at our school.  Fifth Disease is a mild infectious disease that affects school children from time to time, it is caused by a virus that is spread in much the same way as a cold.
 
The symptoms of Fifth Disease are a red rash on the cheeks which then spreads to the arms and legs.  In more severe cases, the rash is accompanied by fever and painful joints.  Fifth Disease presents a small risk to pregnant women. Children with sickle cell anemia or certain other forms of anemia may be at risk as well.  At this point, there is no vaccine and no medication to treat Fifth Disease.
 
We encourage you to visit the Canadian Paediatric Society Fifth Disease webpage for more information. Contact your family doctor if you suspect you or your child has Fifth Disease. If you have any questions, we encourage you to contact Toronto Public Health at 416-338-7600.
 
Our primary concern is for the health and safety of all of our students and staff.  We have taken this opportunity to remind all staff and students about the importance of proper hand washing, and our caretaking staff has cleaned surface areas including doorknobs and drinking fountains.

Holiday Book Drive- Give the Gift Of Reading
JW is hosting a book drive from November 25 to December 13. The collected books will be donated to our sister school, Flemington Public School, to support their reading program. 
Please bring NEW or gently used books and drop them off in the collection bins located outside the library. 
We appreciate all donations and are specifically interested in books at the Kindergarten-Grade 5 reading level. 
Thank you


John Wanless School Council NEWS
SAVE THE DATE: John Wanless Movie Night - Sponsored by Onondaga Camp!
Mark your calendars for Tuesday, January 28th and join us in the Big Gym! The movie starts at 6:00PM (doors open at 5:30pm). Pizza combos can be pre-ordered in advance, and snacks will be available for purchase on the day of the event. Stay tuned for the pizza link and movie announcement!
 
LOST AND FOUND
Parents are encouraged to check the school's lost and found for any missing items. Take advantage of opportunities during poinsettia/spiritwear pick-up and next week's school concerts to locate lost belongings. Unclaimed clothing will be donated before the holiday break.
 
JW SAC is partnering with The Adelson and Weiss Real Estate Team to do a Winter Clothing Drive for The Children's Breakfast Clubs.

Every Monday in November Through December 9th we will be doing pick ups in the neighbourhood. If you have items to be picked up, please email clientcare@adelsonweiss.com to arrange a time. 

Alternatively drop offs can be made: 
- In the lobby of the school 
- Adelson and Weiss offices at 1701 Avenue Rd (daily between 10 am and 4 pm)


PIZZA LUNCHES
Want to avoid lunch making on Tuesdays? Click on the links below to order today!
Pizza orders: www.sagoto.com/jwpc/pizza  Order anytime during the year!
We're looking for volunteers for Pizza and Subway lunches. Please email jwpizzalunch@gmail.com to get involved!
 
HOT LUNCHES ARE BACK!
We're pleased to welcome back The Lunch Lady for this school year on Wednesdays and Fridays. Hot lunches must be ordered by Monday night (for Wednesday delivery) and Wednesday (for Friday delivery). Take the stress out of lunch making and head to order.thelunchlady.ca today to register your account and order!
 
WOODWARD MEATS
We're excited to partner with Woodward Meats again this year. As a reminder, our school earns 6% back from every purchase. Last year we earned a whopping $1,400 that will go directly to the school to support our fundraising efforts! Use this link today when shopping at Woodward Meats on Brookdale and Yonge: https://www.woodwardmeats.com/fundraisers/2024-Jan-Wanless-School-Council/
 
WE'RE ON INSTAGRAM!

Stay up-to-date with all the exciting school news and events by following us on Instagram at 
@johnwanlessschoolcouncil
 

Have questions? Email us at johnwanlessfundraising@gmail.com


General Information

School Day Schedule for 2024-25

 8:41 Am Entry for all students- Lines for each class (Grades 1-6) will be identified in the yard

8:45-9:25 Period 1
9:25-10:05 Period 2
10:05-10:20 Recess for all Grade 1-6 students
10:20-11:00 Period 3
11:00-11:30 Period 4
11:30-12:27 Lunch for all Grade 1-6 students (Students in grades 4-6 eat in their classrooms from 11:30-11:50 and then proceed outside to play; students in Grades 1-3 eat in the lunchroom from 11:30-11:50 and then proceed outside to play. Teachers on duty will supervise from 12:12-12:27. Students will be picked up by their respective teachers from their respective outside class lines at 12:27 as we have done so this year (except in case of inclement weather).
Please note that kindergarten lunch will run from 11:15- 12:27. Students who stay at school during lunch will eat in their classrooms.
12:27  PM Entry for all students
12:30-1:10 Period 5
1:10-1:50 Period 6
1:50-2:05 Recess for all students
2:05-2:45 Period 7
2:45-3:15 Period 8
Dismissal for all Grade 1-6 students is at 3:15PM
Dismissal for Kindergarten students is at 3:00PM.

Our Team

Classroom Locations                          Grade            ROOM
Ms. George                                           JK/SK A              101
Ms. Klug                                                JK/SK B               113
Ms. Kussner                                         JK/SK C               115
Ms. Stamatiou                                       JK/SK D              111
Ms. Mamann                                          JK/SK E              003
Mr. Burton                                                1 A                    104
Ms. Fagan                                                1 B                    102
Ms. Talesnik                                             1C                    109
Ms. Flemington                                       1/2                     103
Ms. Almanova                                          2A                     201
Ms.  Hood                                                 2B                     110
Ms. Maharaj                                               2C                    207
Ms. Rendell-Dean                                      2D                    202
Ms. Jaklitch                                                3D                   203
Ms. Dempsey                                             3A                    204                                                                        
Ms. Grant                                                    3B                    205
Ms. Zarpellon                                              3C                    206
Ms. Chau                                                     4A                    215
Ms. Ng                                                          4B                   221
Ms. Wolk                                                       4/5                  213
Ms. Spencer                                                 5A                   220
Mr. Sherman                                                 5B                   211
Mr. Gaunt                                                       6A                  219
Mr. Sturm                                                       6B                  218
Ms. Patterson                                      Res. Sppt & ESL     214A
Ms. Labell                                            Resource Support  219                 
Ms. Hunter                                              Lib & Prep            LIB
Ms. Sedighi                                                  ISP                    214
Ms. Sherwood                                     Health/Phys Ed       GYM
Ms. Blaney                                          Health/Phys Ed       GYM
Ms. Lowe                                              Prep Support           212
Ms. Willingham                                       Music                     222
Ms. Oren                                                   French                  209
Mr. Parkes                                   0.5 Resource AM/VP PM
 
Ms. Nejati                                                   DECE                     115
Ms. Foscarin                                              DECE                     113
Ms. Zhang                                                  DECE                     101
Ms. Lau                                                      DECE                     111
TBD                                                            EA                         TBD
Ms. Vecchio                                                EA-ISP                   TBD
Ms. Rocci                                                    LRS
Ms. Chen                                                     LRS
Ms. Nguyen                                                 LRS
Ms. McLeish                                               LRS
Mr. Emura                                                   LRS

Ms. Capella                                                 LRS

All other LRS (2)                                                                          TBD

Mr. Frazer                                                  Head Caretaker
Mr. Di Tomaso                                            Caretaker
Mr. Bellomo                                                 Caretaker

Mr. Sayed                                                   Caretaker

                                 
 
Ms. Marsella                                                  Office Administrator
TBD                                                                Office Secretary  (AM)
Mr. Parkes                                                     Vice-Principal  (PM)
Mr. Boross-Harmer                                       Principal
                           



 

 

 






Welcome to John Wanless Public School

John Wanless Public School is located north of Lawrence Avenue, between Yonge Street and Avenue Road. Our TDSB mission is to enable all students to reach high levels of achievement and to acquire the knowledge, skills, and values they need to become responsible members of a democratic society. This includes:

  • a strong commitment to student achievement and success;
  • a strong commitment to ensuring that student voice is incorporated in all that we do;
  • a strong commitment to ensuring that equitable practices permeate all that we do within our school community
  • a safe and caring learning environment;
  • continued commitment to ongoing professional learning for staff;
  • encouraging life-long learning; and
  • collaborative partnerships with parents and the school community.