Dear Manhattan Park Families,

As winter weather continues and temperatures drop, we are experiencing snowy mornings and colder conditions. Please ensure that your child comes to school dressed in appropriate winter clothing. Over the next two weeks, we will be accepting very gently used winter outerwear for students (sizes 7–10 preferred), as well as non-perishable food items. Thank you for your continued support of the Manhattan Park community. Our school serves as a place where families can come together to support one another.

On January 30th, we had a Sharing Assembly where classes shared some of the amazing work they have been doing with the rest of the school. The performances were thoughtful, entertaining and informative. They taught us how to live a good life by educating us on the 7 Sacred Teachings of Love, Humility, Wisdom, Courage, Truth, Honesty and Respect. It is so wonderful that Manhattan Park is doing its part in reconciling with our Indigenous friends as we integrate Indigenous teachings and awareness into our school. 

Thank you, Parent Council, for another great Sip 'n Social event on February 6. The students enjoyed a cup of hot chocolate as a sweet treat to pair with their lunch. Thank you also for supporting our excursions by covering the cost of buses and subsidizing entry costs/tickets, such as the Grade 1/2 and 2/3 classes, which are off to Young People's Theatre on February 24. We are also grateful to the Council for purchasing $1000 worth of student laptops for the school.

The Toronto District School Board proudly recognizes Chinese Heritage Month each February. This year, we celebrate the Year of the Horse with the theme Play, Progress, Prosper.  The Lunar New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is one of the most significant celebrations within Chinese heritage. This year, the first day of the Lunar New Year begins on February 17. Celebrations often include family gatherings, decorative displays, and a festive meal! Sponsored by our Parent Council, on February 20th, Lunar New Year Lions from Northern Legs Southern Fists Kung Fu Club will be performing at Manhattan Park at 12:30 p.m. to bring in good health, prosperity and happiness for the community. Wishing everyone a healthy, happy, prosperous and successful Lunar New Year!

During February, the Toronto District School Board proudly recognizes African Heritage (Black History) Month. The collective strength and unity among the African/Black diaspora, including the celebration of vibrant and diverse cultures, experiences, perspectives, contemporary realities, contributions, and achievements, serves as a call to action. Inclusivity, collaboration, and solidarity remind us of the impact we can make when we raise our voices together for justice, equity, and the greater good. This year’s theme, The Power of Us highlights Black Student Well-Being, belonging, and brilliance.

A friendly reminder that Parent-Teacher Conferences for some students will take place the evening of February 12 and the morning of February 13. As you know, the best person to connect with about your child's education at any time is their classroom teacher. Please reach out to them by email or phone and arrange to speak with them about any questions you may have.

A lot is happening at Manhattan Park. Staff are dedicated educators during the Instructional day; some have taken their own time to support extra-curricular activities. Thank you, teachers, for nurturing our students both inside and outside the classroom! Here are just some of the amazing activities/clubs/sports happening at Manhattan Park:

• Math/Homework Club (Ms. Kapilan and Ms. W)
• Performing Arts Leaders Team (Mr. Chen)
• Volleyball (Ms. Skrivanos)
• Soccer Club (Mr. Babak)
• Board Games Club (Ms. W, Ms. Shepherd, Ms. Kapilan)

Please join me in welcoming Long-Term Occasional Teachers, Ms. Sahibzadi, Ms. Amanda and Ms. Habidi to Manhattan Park. We are thankful for their support in Rooms 3, 5, and 8, respectively. Each comes with valuable skills and knowledge to support student success. 

There is much to be grateful for at Manhattan Park. Thank you, parents/guardians, for your trusted partnership with the school.

Warmest Regards,

Ms. Lin 

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IMPORTANT DATES:
 

February 12 evening - Parent-Teacher Conference

February 13 morning - Parent-Teacher Conference (PA Day - No school for students)

February 20 - Lunar New Year Lion Dance Performance at 12:30 p.m.

March 10 at 6:30 p.m. - Council Meeting. Link to join: https://meet.google.com/yau-czpa-abw