Norway Junior Public School

Family Update - February 4

I can't believe it is February already! There is plenty happening at Norway in the coming days and weeks. This week alone brings the junior grades ski trip tomorrow, Pizza Lunch on Thursday, and the Dance-a-Thon on Friday. Here is a snapshot of some of the things happening this month. 

Dance-a-Thon

This coming Friday, February 7, is Norway's annual Dance-a-Thon! For this year's School Council event, we are boogying for books, so don't forget to get sponsors! All money raised will be used to build classroom libraries. More details, including how to donate, were shared via School Council communication channels. Not on the Council Mailing List yet? Join now

African Heritage (Black History) Month

During the month of February, African Heritage (Black History) Month is recognized at the TDSB and across Canada thanks to The Honourable Jean Augustine. The former Member of Parliament introduced the motion in the House of Commons, and it officially took effect in February 1996. The TDSB first recognized African Heritage (Black History) Month in January 2002 and reaffirmed it again in January 2004.

The chosen theme for 2024-25 is Lift Every Voice. This theme is drawn from the iconic first line of the Black National Anthem, and encourages collective strength, unity, diversity, and resilience. Whether you identify as Black, African, African-Caribbean, Black 2SLGBTQI+, or African-Indigenous, this powerful phrase invites us to acknowledge and celebrate our shared heritage, recognize our historical and ongoing struggles, and honour our achievements. It also serves as a call to action, encouraging inclusivity, collaboration, and solidarity, and reminding us of the impact we can make when we raise our voices together for justice, equity, and the greater good. You can read more about African Heritage (Black History) Month here

Chinese Heritage Month 

The TDSB proudly recognizes Chinese Heritage Month in February each year. This year, we celebrate the Year of the Snake: Tenacious and Transformative. The Lunar New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is one of the most significant holidays of Chinese heritage. The date is determined by the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar, and the celebration lasts 16 days. This year, the first day began on Wednesday, January 29. Festivities can include family gatherings, decorations, and of course, a feast! You can read more about Chinese Heritage Month here

Parenting for Liberation - In Conversation with Trina Greene Brown

On the evening of Wednesday, February 5th, join the Parent/Caregiver and Community Engagement Office in collaboration with the Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement for Parenting for Liberation – In Conversation with Trina Greene Brown. We invite parents and caregivers who identify as Black and/or are raising Black children to engage in a powerful storytelling experience exploring ways to amplify Black children's voices and to nurture joyful Black families.  Time: 6:30-7:30 PM. Register for the session here.

Influenza Season is Here  

Toronto Public Health and SickKids Hospital have both seen an increase in influenza positivity throughout the city. Since the fall,. Norway has been participating in an initiative by SickKids to provide voluntary testing for RSV, Flu and COVID 19 through the use of Saliva Testing Kits. These kits are provided by SickKids and are available for pick up in Norway's school office. If your child is ill, you can pick up a kit, complete it at home, and bring it back to the school where SickKids picks up kits every day. SickKids will contact you within a few days if your child tested positive for any of the three viruses - RSV, Flu or COVID 19. 

For more information on influenza, as well as RSV and COVID-19, please visit Toronto Public Health’s website on common respiratory viruses: Respiratory Viruses – City of Toronto (full link: https://www.toronto.ca/community-people/health-wellness-care/health-programs-advice/respiratory-viruses/ )

Upcoming Events and Important Dates

  • February 5 - Snow Valley Ski Trip
  • February 6 - Pizza Lunch 
  • February 7 - Dance-a-Thon
  • February 10 - School Council Meeting
  • February 12 - First Term Report Cards sent home
  • February 13 and 14 - Report Card Interviews
  • February 14 - PA Day for Report Card Interviews
  • February 17 - Family Day - No School