School Council Minutes

DECEMBER 14, 2009 

Present:  Lise Adelson, Judy Barton, Julia Bilenkis, Tanya Bradley-Edwards, Samantha Caldwell, John Chaffey, Barb Courtman, Kay Fisher, Bev Frankish, Steve Jackson, Marek Klemes, Kath Layne, Steve Massey, Elizabeth McGregor, Monty Montgomery, Sangita Patel, Kristin Riddell, Paulette Roberge, Rosie Ruscitti, Mary Anne Trenker

Regrets:  Erma Caissie-Richard, Irene Cottee, J.P. King

1    Opening remarks.  John Chaffey, Chair, opened the meeting at 7:00 pm. 

2.    Agenda.  The agenda was approved as issued.

3.    Minutes.  Minutes of the November 16, 2009 School Council meeting were approved as issued.

4.    Chair’s Report.  John Chaffey gave the Chair’s report.  (a) A special education consultation meeting was held on December 3^rd.  (b) The new Parent Engagement Policy is available for input.  (c) The results of the Earl of March application for funding from the Parents Reaching Out grant will be known the end of January.  (d) The OCDSB is seeking input on its 2010/11 budget. (e) Motion that the 22 minute DVD “Teen Truth – An Inside Look At Body Image” be purchased from Hopewell Centre for the Parent Resource Library.  Carried (Bev, Monty).  A trailer for the film can be viewed at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PpFBKeuKf7M. (f) School council relocated briefly to the lower foyer to experience, live, the second annual Rock-A-Thon.  Michael, a grade 12 student in the Leadership Class, gave an overview of the day.  There are 92 participants who have raised $5,118! Overall, about $16,000 has been raised by the leadership class this year through fundraisers such as Rock-A-Thon, Inside Ride, Black and White Auction, and Operation Go Home. 

 5.    New Approaches to Literacy and Numeracy.  Kristin Riddell, head of English, and Julia Bilenkis, head of Mathematics, gave a presentation on “The Pulse of Learning at Earl”, highlighting a well thought out and cohesive strategy at Earl of March to assist all students in experiencing success with literacy and numeracy.  (a) Literacy. The goal of literacy is to develop and apply critical thinking skills (reading, writing and oral communication skills) in all subject areas.  This involves acquiring skills, using the skills and then extending the skills. The key to success is to have consistent strategies and to use a teamwork approach. Earl students are being equipped with a wide range of strategies and skills including reading comprehension, skills for writing effectively and with purpose, answering multiple choice questions, proof reading strategies and summarizing skills.  Significant extra help is available for students during class time as well as during lunch and after school in preparation for the literacy testing on Thursday April 8^th. Two years ago, 91% passed the literacy test first try; last year 97% of students taking the test for the first time at Earl were successful. (b) Numeracy. In numeracy, two markers are the grade 9 EQAO and the grade 10 board-wide math exam.  There are 7 mathematical processes used in math – reasoning, proving, reflecting, selecting tools, connecting, representing, and communicating.  Students are made familiar with key words such as compare, describe and determine. At risk students specifically can receive help Tuesday and Thursday at lunch but all students can receive help before school, at lunch or after school.  Students are learning to make connections between the math they are learning in class to every day math in life, and to make consistent and organized approaches to real life decisions. Check out the Earl website http://www.earlofmarch.com/index.php/academicsm for additional resources.  (c) Questions and comments.  Assistive technology is being used to, for example, help organize ideas.  Outside tutoring is helpful, particularly tutoring from a peer (to sign-up, email ), but help is always available from the math department. 

 6.    Student Representative’s Report.  Samantha Caldwell gave the Student Representative’s report. The Kanata Food Cupboard canned food drive has raised 2,500 food items so far; the campaign ends on December 16^th.  Arts at lunch helped to promote the food drive. There will be a holiday assembly on December 18^th.

 7.    Teacher Representative Report.  Steve Jackson gave the Teacher Representative report. 

 a)         Cabaret.  The school musical was produced and directed by Matt Minter, but various other teachers played prominent roles including Bonnie Day (vocals), Linda Jamieson (dance) and Gord Birkinshaw (pit band).

 b)         Athletics.  (i) The IDC4U leadership class under the Mike Sammon has organized a number of very successful events.  The Rock-A-Thon taking place today is raising money for “Operation Come Home”. The Black and White Auction raised $2,600 for the United Way and for athletics. Inside Ride raised $5,400 for “Kids with Cancer”. The Lions Classic raised $800 for athletics. The Holiday Classic Hockey Tournament for the OCDSB Community Living Programs (DDU) will be held on December 16^th.  The fitness class was taught athletic conditioning by Andrea Nicholls, a trainer who has worked with the Canadian sprint Kayak team. The grade 11 leadership class organized and facilitated the Christmas Party for the children of Earl staff. The grade 10 PE classes will be going cross country skiing in Gatineau Park.  (ii) All winter sports teams are under way. Both the senior and junior boys basketball teams are off to a strong start, and the Nordic team was able to get on the ski trails last weekend. The curling team is off to a good start. The senior girls volleyball team has started their season and the junior girls are currently in tryouts. Coaches this winter are: Steve Jackson, Heather Kirk, Darryl Woods, Chris Nielsen, Dave Lunday, Rick Powers, Sue Stackpole, Danielle Skinner, Drew James, and Jacques Vezeau..

 c)          Guidance. Grade 12s should come in and pick up their grad gown order forms (due February 19^th). The OUAC deadline is January 13^th, and the OCAS deadline is February 1^st. There will be an exam study skills workshop during lunch on January 7^th and 8^th in Student Services. Students wanting a semester 2 course change should book an appointment to speak with their counselor before exams start.  Scholarship information for UWO and University of Alberta is available in guidance.

8.    Principal’s Report.  Steve Massey gave the Principal’s Report.  (a) The music night was postponed from December 9^th to 10^th due to inclement weather.  Despite overlapping with WEJ, there were still about 500 people in the audience for the three hour concert.  (b) 80 students participated in the Leadership Camp under the direction of Julia Bilenkas and Dianne Brown.  (c) A practice lock-down was held on December 1^st. The police officers were very impressed and affirming with the speed and efficiency with which the students and staff responded! (d) Cabaret was stressful for Steve in achieving the right balance with censorship and appropriateness, but everyone has been incredibly impressed with the final product that was presented!  The Cappies review of Earl of March’s “dazzling production” was published on November 26^th.  The published article can be found at http://www2.canada.com/ottawacitizen/news/artslife /story.html?id=a76a57cc-7867-497f-921c-899357fef203  and the complete reviews at http://www.ottawacitizen.com/entertainment/cappies/Captivating+Cabaret/22692 31/story.html.  Congratulations to the students and staff! 

9.    Secondary School Committee Report.  Paulette Roberge gave the SCC report.  She attended the December 10^th Speakers’ Series event on “Assessment and Evaluation in the OCDSB grades 9 to 12” at Canterbury High School.  The keynote speaker, Professor Garfield Gini-Newman, spoke on brain research and touched on gifted vs. genius, multiple intelligence, storing vs. using information, and critical thinking skills.  There was also a policy discussion on assessment and evaluation by Jennifer Adams (OCDSB Superintendent of Curriculum) and Barry Bickerton (OCDSB System Principal, Curriculum).  Comments – Kristin Riddell serves on the assessment and evaluation committee; academic excellence is just one of criteria universities and employers look for in potential students/employees; 85% of Earl students go on to post-secondary education. 

10.  Other business.  John Chaffey presented Steve Massey with an engraved mug from School Council in appreciation of his on-going and outstanding leadership at Earl of March, including his ability to listen and to respond with enthusiasm and wisdom. 

 11.  Next meeting.  The next meeting will be on Monday January 18, 2010 at 7:00 pm. 

 12. Adjournment.  The meeting adjourned at 9:10 pm. 

 Minutes prepared by Bev Frankish

Earl of March SC December 14, 2009                           

 

November, 2009

November 16, 2009 

Present:  Lise Adelson, Judy Barton, Erma Caissie-Richard, Samantha Caldwell, John Chaffey, Irene Cottee, Barb Courtman, Kay Fisher, Bev Frankish, Deborah Haworth, Steve Jackson, Farzi Khazai, Marek Klemes, Kath Layne, Bill Lumley, Steve Massey, Elizabeth McGregor, Monty Montgomery, Nitesh Naidu, Dilip Patel, Sangita Patel, Mary Anne Trenker

Regrets:  Tanya Bradley-Edwards, J.P. King, Paulette Roberge, Rosie Ruscitti

Opening remarks.  John Chaffey, Chair, opened the meeting at 7:00 pm.  Thanks were expressed to the foods class for providing refreshments.

Agenda.  The revised agenda was approved as issued.

Minutes.  Minutes of the September 21, 2009 School Council meeting were approved as revised.  Change first sentence in 12 c to “It was felt that the present system of allocating interview slots could be made more efficient for all.”  

Chair’s Report.  John Chaffey gave the Chair’s report.  (a) The Parent Involvement Grant for $500 was received, bringing the balance to $882.  Options include “Are You Smarter Than a High Schooler” (food and material) or an outside speaker such as from Hopewell Centre.  A decision will be made at the December meeting on purchasing the $189 DVD. (b) Thanks expressed to Rob Ferguson for new sign-in information for the Wiki, and to Bill Lumley for updating the School Council information on the Wiki. (c) Clarification from Cheryle Watson, Policy Analyst for the OCDSB, that those who are elected to a position on School council are eligible to vote.  In most instances, decisions are made by consensus and not votes.  (d) On the suggestion of an eco-friendly parent, School Council is invited to bring our own water bottles and mugs to our meetings. (e) Please email John if you would like a copy of the draft revised policy on transferring students between schools. (f) A pace car program is being used by some elementary schools to encourage drivers to slow down. (g) The ministry has a revised guide available entitled, “Bullying: We Can All Help Stop It”.  At Earl of March, bullying that occurs is typically in the form of cyberbullying.  (h) The new copyright laws will result in some additional expenses for schools.  (i) Please forward any suggestions for the Premier’s Awards for Teaching Excellence to Steve or John. (j) There will be a tour and reception at 131 Greenbank Road prior to the next OCASC meeting on November 19^th.  (k) In response to a question, it was noted that Shannon Hedricks and Sherry Lee will be running Reach for the Top.

Secondary School Committee Report.  Erma Caissie-Richard gave the SCC report.   See item 4 j above. The Superintendent of Schools will be at the December 10^th SCC meeting. Workshops will begin on November 25^th for the OCDSB and the OCSB on the topic of “School Grounds Greening”. 

Student Representative’s Report.  Samantha Caldwell gave the Student Representative’s report.  There were 300 tickets sold for the dance on October 23^rd. A “guess the number of jelly beans” contest was held from October 19^th to 30^th.  Fall teams were featured at the November 2^nd pep rally organized by Hannah Kirby.  School clothing was sold during lunch hours from November 2^nd to 12^th.  In response to questions from a parent, Steve and Samantha explained that $1 from the dance ticket price goes into a student emergency fund, that Student Council runs the dances, that there are many staff volunteers at the dances (8 to 10 teachers and 3 administrators) plus two police officers, and that students preferred the former later start times to the dances (now 7:30 to 10:30 pm to allow an earlier night for the volunteers).

Teacher Representative Report.  Steve Jackson gave the Teacher Representative report.   

 a)  General.  Teachers handled all the juggling of classes and labs with great dexterity during the construction of the new science labs.  Also, the teacher population at the school has generally had a low absenteeism during the start of the flu season.

 b)  Guidance.  OUAC pin numbers will be received very shortly, and students can now access the college application system at www.ontariocolleges.ca.   Various scholarship application due dates and university information nights are ongoing.  Of note, the University of Ottawa and Carleton University parent’s evenings are both on Tuesday December 8^th.  30 Co-Op students are earning 70 credits this semester.

 c)  Arts.  Earl will be presenting Cabaret on Friday November 20^th and Saturday November 21^st at 8:00 pm, and a matinee on Sunday November 22^nd at 2 pm. Tickets are $12 for students and seniors, and $15 for adults.   The grade 11 photography students went on a Remembrance Day field trip, and the grade 12 photography class worked on theme-mosaics that create images of the school structure using up to 500 original photographs of students.  Over 400 yearbooks have been sold.

 d)  Canadian and World Studies.  On November 6^th, Dominic Talarico and Darryl Woods attended the annual Ontario History and Social Sciences Teachers Association Conference.  They presented “The Essay Conquered”, the World-Social Sciences summative essay package developed with the English Department. The participants were also given strategies on how they can set up a similar system tailored to their specific needs.  It became clear from discussions with the participants that students at EOM are being given the tools to be successful researchers, critical thinkers and writers and that they have distinct advantages over many of their peers across the province. Several recent grads, now attending universities in the Ottawa area, have indicated that at both Ottawa U. and Carleton, professors in their 1st year classes have singled out EOM grads in both the English and History/Social Sciences for their skills.

 e)  English.  Preparation for the OSSLT has begun!  Extra help sessions for students at risk will be starting next week.  The Get Rev’ed to Read Group will also be starting reading sessions at the end of November.  New literacy projects are being used in the grade 9 and 10 English Applied courses; several strategies will help students to prepare for the OSSLT Test in April 2010.  The grade 10 English classes will be studying the novel Night by Elie Wiesel for the grade 10 summative assignment.  The story of Night complements both the grade 10 Civics classes and this year’s school musical, Cabaret.  The department is excited about the new SMART Board in room 215.  A reminder that the Student Handbooks for English 4U and English 4C are available from the Earl web site under Academics and English.  As well, the Writing Essays Guide, under the Resources link, helps students to use information and incorporate resources into essays effectively.  Congratulations to Sophie Gong who was one of the 10 finalists in the Creative Communication Essay Competition.  Sophie’s essay will enter a final competition in the new year.  Way to go Sophie!

 f)  Health and Physical Education.  (i) The grade 11 Fitness class ran the Rattle Me Bones 10 Km race at the end of October and raised $1200 for the General Hospital. This is the 6^th year the students have supported this event. Recently, all the grade 9 and 10 P.E. classes participated in a week long training session in self defense. The grade 12 Exercise Science class is gearing up to take a trip to Toronto for the Body Worlds exhibit at the Ontario Science Centre. The exhibition is designed to teach us how the body functions and focuses on human health.  (ii) The grade 11 Athletic Leadership class just completed the Grind and raised over $1500 for the Quest for a Cure program.  The class also leads crafts and fitness programs each week for our community living students. The Athletic Leadership students will be going to the Mlacak Senior Centre every week starting in late November.  Popular activities include carpet bowling and shuffleboard with our local seniors.  Floor hockey intramural is the next special event Athletic Leadership will be organizing starting in late November.  (iii) The grade 12 Leadership class is in full swing with many events coming up.  November 20^th to 21^st is “The Lions Classic” 4^th annual Jr. Boys Basketball Tournament.  Features of the tournament include: a three point shooting contest, and a period 4 buy-out game for EOM students to cheer on their Lions!  The next event is the 2^nd annual “Inside Ride”, a fundraiser to assist children living with cancer.  Last year, 174 riders raised over $4000.  The semi-formal “Black and White Auction” on December 2^nd will raise money for The United Way as well as EOM’s Athletic Department.  On December 14^th, the “Roc – A – Thon” Operation Come Home will provide outreach support for Ottawa homeless youth. “Rockers” will be entertained by rotating to a variety of stations which include: movies, video games, board/card games and a homework station.  Finally, on December 16^th, the second annual “ECL Floor Hockey tournament” is a non-competitive floor hockey tournament for students from community living programs from across the OCDSB.  The organizers are motivated to raise the funds necessary to provide all players with a free commemorative T-shirt. (iv) Hannah Kirby, this year’s student Athletic representative, ran a successful Pep Rally for all the Fall sports teams with prizes and fun games such as the tricycle race between the student/athletes and the coaches (coaches won!). Hannah is now selling Athletic apparel in the lower foyer for all those interested. Thank you to all the coaches and athletes for your time and dedication to your sports. The winter sport teams are well on their way to preparing for a successful season in senior and junior boys basketball, Nordic skiing, curling, senior girl’s volleyball, and girl’s hockey.  EoM will be hosting two winter tournaments – the Ted Davis Memorial Hockey Tournament and the Lions Junior Boys Basketball Tournament. Congratulations to Jamie Rattray for winning the MVP award for the Canadian National Women’s Hockey Championship.

 g)  Social Sciences and Humanities.  (i) October guest speakers to the HHS4M “Individuals & Families” course included former student Gillian Kengis who spent a year abroad in Africa, the Kanata women’s shelter (Chrysalis House) to address the issue of dating and domestic violence, and the Royal Ottawa’s “Open the Doors” program about the issue of mental health in young adults.  (ii) On November 6th, 15 students participated in an the all day “In Love and In Danger” conference where they listened to guest speakers and then participated in workshops designed to create awareness initiatives that they will bring back to our school.  (iii) 17 Canadian History students joined Mrs. Scheepers at the newly built Shenkman Arts Centre in Orleans on November 3rd to see the WW2 musical “Till We Meet Again”.  (iv) The Kanata Seniors Centre invited some EOM students to participate in the start of the 2009 Veterans Week by including us in their November 5th ceremony. Students enjoyed mingling with the seniors and enjoyed hearing their stories from war time both on the front and from home. (v) The November 11th school Remembrance Day ceremonies went smoothly and the students were stellar in their acts of remembrance.

 h)  Homework Help Pilot Expansion Project.  A free online math tutoring service is available to students in Grades 7 to 10 in the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board. Students have access to 20 hours a week of free, online math tutoring. Students can check out the free Homework Help at http://HomeworkHelp.ilc.org where certified Ontario math teachers are available Sunday to Thursday, 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., for one-on-one confidential help. The OCDSB is one of 15 English-language boards taking part in this pilot project funded by the Ministry of Education.  This is a different program than the math help website in last month’s minutes.  Within the school, the Peer Tutoring program offers one-on-one free tutoring from peers; moreover, the door to the math office is always open during lunch hours and before and after school. 

Principal’s Report.  Steve Massey gave the Principal’s Report.  (a) The school improvement plan is focusing on literacy and math EQAO scores by targeting funding to students at risk.  (b) Kathy Scheepers and her team did a fantastic job at the Remembrance Day assemblies.  The caliber of the presentation and level of respect shown by the students was admirable.  (c) There are various ongoing fundraisers at Earl of March.  Leadership class students and School Council are encouraged to meet with Steve to discuss their proposals and to negotiate with him! The two students working on the programming on the TV screens are treating Steve as a client. There is lots of evidence of “giving back” with Operation Christmas Child. Last year’s canned food drive raised 8000 cans. The pep rally generated interest for the fall teams.  (d) As the supervisor of staff, Steve is involved with doing performance appraisals of teachers and support staff. The school profile is reviewed annually, and course offerings for next year are discussed before the course booklets are issued.  (e) A focus during the PD day last Friday was on differentiated learning and on special education.  Use of technology such as Dragonspeak may be used as a tool to demonstrate knowledge.  The community living teachers and staff from across the city were invited to come to EOM to pool ideas.  (f) Periodic drills of emergency plans are required by law; a lock-down will be scheduled in December.   (g) Steve gave a demonstration in the video conference room of the Digital Media feed technology that has been developed within the school.  (h) Steve acknowledged the itinerant staff who work in our building – a psychologist and social worker on Thursday mornings, and an EA on Tuesday mornings. In addition, we have a phenomenal school resource officer.  Steve has written up a nomination for the OCDSB Chair’s Award for Larry Gauthier, the social worker.  (i) Comments and questions. Comment that the awards ceremony was well done – good flow, enjoyable, and very few people left! Donations in kind are graciously accepted; speak to the office to be directed to the appropriate teacher.  Suggestion that family portraits could be done as a fundraiser. There is no update on the anniversary celebration. The dinner prior to the Friday evening performance of Cabaret has been postponed until the spring production of Romeo and Juliet.  Parent Council are invited to bring donations of baked goods for the refreshment table at Cabaret; email .  A decision was made to hand out report cards at the end of the day rather than during first period; those with spares last period or on co-op can pick them up at the end of lunch hour.

Next meeting.  The next meeting will be on Monday December 14, 2009 at 7:00 pm. 

Adjournment.  The meeting adjourned at 8:55 pm. 

Minutes prepared by Bev Frankish

October 2009

October 19, 2009

Present: Lise Adelson, Judy Barton, Tanya Bradley-Edwards, Erma Caissie-Richard, John Chaffey, Irene Cottee, Kay Fisher, Bev Frankish, Deborah Haworth, Steve Jackson, Farzi Khazai, J.P. King, Marek Klemes, Kath Layne, Bill Lumley, Steve Massey, Monty Montgomery, Nitesh Naidu, Sangita Patel, Anh Pham, Paulette Roberge, Rosie Ruscitti, Mary Anne Trenker

Regrets: Sangita Patel

1. Opening remarks. John Chaffey, Chair, opened the meeting. He thanked Nitesh for supplying some of the treats. All who responded to the email vote on the Parental Reaching Out grant voted in favour (see item 11).

2. Agenda. The revised agenda was approved as issued (Monty, Erma).

3. Minutes. Minutes of the September 21, 2009 School Council meeting were approved as issued (Lise, Irene).

4. Membership on School Council. John has looked at our current constitution and will speak to Cheryl Watson for further guidance. There has always, or almost always, been a consensus on past “votes” at Earl of March and so the issue of who actually has a vote has not really ever been an issue. John will research it a little bit more and bring back a recommendation on whether or not changes need to be made to the constitution with regard to membership and voting.

5. Student Representative’s Report. Anh Pham gave the Student Representative’s report for Samantha Caldwell. Over $200 was raised at a bake sale to raise funds to cover the shortfall for the dance. The winner of the King For A Day fundraiser will be pushed around in a plush velvet chair for the day. This week is spirit week (pajamas, crazy hair, toga, inside out, colours) and the dance on Friday will be based around a work out theme. The guess-the-number-of-candies-in-the-jar fundraiser this week will raise funds for the dance. The Halloween fundraiser will begin next week.

6. Teacher Representative Report. Steve Massey welcomed the new teacher representative, Steve Jackson. Mr. Jackson, the elected teacher rep, is new to student services this semester. Steve Jackson gave the Teacher Representative report.

a) Arts. There will be a fundraising dinner immediately preceding the Cabaret musical on Friday November 20th. There are numerous curriculum links to Cabaret: grade 10 English is studying a novel about the Holocaust, grade 12 English classes are planning a Roaring Twenties event to go along with The Great Gatsby, grade 10 history is studying the rise of Fascism in Europe, and the World Studies and English department will be creating two display boards for the month of November showcasing connections to the musical.

b) Canadian and World Studies. The essay binders have now been completed for the grade 9 geography students. Dom Talarico and Daryl Woods will be presenting the essay binders for grades 9 to 12 at the OHASTA conference in Toronto on November 7th. Positive feedback is continuing to be received from many of our EOM graduates now attending post secondary institutions concerning the program developed at EOM. Universally, they are finding that they are more than prepared for the writing and research aspects of their classes. In fact, graduates have mentioned on several occasions that professors at both Ottawa U. and Carleton U. have singled out EOM in their History and English classes as a local school that is producing grads with excellent essay writing and research skills. Twelve students are going to Bell H.S. to attend a mini United Nations. Upcoming activities for the grade 10 history students include a visit from CBC radio host Laurence Wall, attending the WW2 musical “Till We Meet Again”, and a few students participating in a Remembrance Day ceremony at the Kanata Senior Centre. The grade 12 “Individuals and Families” class also have a few things lined up: Chrysalis House will be addressing students on the topic of dating/domestic violence, the Open the Doors Program from the Royal Ottawa will be discussing mental health issues, and 15 students will be attending the “In Love and In Danger” conference.

c) Student Services. IEPs have been mailed out. Progress reports are being reviewed to identify students who need some additional coaching. A grade 10 student auditioned for the Rogers High School Sport Zone TV show. Kelly, an Algonquin student in the Child Youth Worker Program, is working at Earl three days a week to build connections with students and to run a program called “Pathway Mentor” that explores career possibilities. The resource room is becoming a popular place at lunch for many junior students. Guidance counselors have been meeting with grade 9 students to introduce them to the services available in Student Services. The University Information Program is being hosted by Earl of March on Tuesday October 20th. There are upcoming open houses at Carleton, Ottawa and Algonquin. There will be an information assembly on applying to college and university at the end of November, once the OUAC pin #’s are received. The Kanata Kourier will be running an interview and photo op, on the GLN40 (Navigating the Workplace) class, for our Earl students’ community volunteerism and leadership work on the Terry Fox Run. The class is also being recognized by Community Health (West and East) for their role in promoting Healthy Living, physical activity, and leadership to teens through the Terry Fox Run.

d) Athletics. Most of the fall sports are wrapping up. Golf made city finals. Junior Boys Soccer is having an excellent season and the Senior Boys are almost finished their season. Tennis had a good season, and Cross Country competition begins tomorrow. Other fall sports that are wrapping up include Field hockey, Non-contact Boys Hockey, Sr. Boys Volleyball and Varsity Girls Basketball. The upcoming winter sports are JR/SR Boys Basketball, Girls Hockey, Curling, Nordic Skiing and Sr. Girls Volleyball; many of these teams have begun their try-outs.

e) Assorted. Exercise Science is seeing “Body Works” in Toronto. The Grade 11 Leadership class is organizing the Grind, a Halloween fundraiser for the Ottawa Regional Cancer Centre. Intramurals begin this month, and there are also activities organized for the Community Living classes by the Grade 11 Leadership class. Fitness class ran in the 5 km MADD Dash on October 18th, and the grade 11 class is running in the 10 km “Rattle Me Bones” race. The grades 9 and 10 phys. Ed. Classes will be doing self defense training with “Safe International”.

f) Comments and Questions. “In Love and In Danger” is a conference on healthy relationships that is influenced by the Polytechnic massacre. Grade 12 students who have submitted their email addresses are receiving regular updates on university applications, funding opportunities and key dates. There was also an assembly for graduating students on October 27th concerning the university application process. Cory Gervais has taken on a dual role as the guidance technician and assisting with university and scholarship applications. Mr. Massey outlined various resources available for students – an EA that can assist with such things as sleep and nutrition, a psychologist, a social worker, and links to the community. In instances where they are surplus textbooks for a given course, arrangements may be made to pay a deposit and borrow the textbook for the semester.

7. Update on Musical. Matt Minter gave an update on the musical, Cabaret, which will be performed November 20th to 22nd. He explained that, in previous years, there has been one main stage musical, a one act play entered in the Sears Festival, and an improv team. This year, there will be a main stage musical in November and a large play (Romeo and Juliet) in April or May. He reassured School Council that the stage play is tamer than the movie version; he also rewrote a verse and cut out some stage directions. He gave a couple of specific reasons that he is excited about the Cabaret production. He wanted depth and poignancy – more than just an escapist evening out. Secondly, he wanted a musical with a higher calling that would challenge the audience. Mr. Massey commended Matt and his team! Mr. Massey, from the video conference room, showed School Council the interactive set designs created by the grade 10 communication tech class that will be built by the grade 11 manufacturing class.

8. Dinner for Musical. Steve Massey provided further details on the dinner that will be served prior to the musical. Shannon Hedrick and Kristin Riddell are organizing the dinner. There will be tickets available for the Friday night combined dinner/theatre. The German themed buffet dinner will be catered by Sir Guy Carleton; people are being asked for donations of German-themed desserts. The purpose of the dinner is to raise funds for the arts. Students will be helping to serve the meal.

9. Principal’s Report. Steve Massey gave the Principal’s Report. (a) Assorted dates. The grade 12 leadership class organized a grade 9 day, during periods 2 and 3; research has shown that there will be fewer ramifications later on if grade 9 is a positive experience. The Terry Fox run was a success. The October 9th PD day at Earl focused on a group session on differentiated instruction followed by departmental time. The leadership camp has been rescheduled to November 27th to 29th. The MADD Dash was held at Earl for the 2nd year; there are great links to our classes with many students volunteering and others running. (b) Student teachers. There are good relations with the University of Ottawa and there will be 10 student teachers this year. Student teachers provide students with opportunities to see differences in delivery methods, including newer methods. (c) Enrollment. There are 408 sections this year, based on a predicted and actual attendance of 1110 as of September 30th. (d) H1N1. Attendance is being monitored closely. Schools typically have 8 to 15% daily absences whereas Earl is usually 4 to 6% – the best school Steve has been at! (e) Teen Zone. There was a ribbon cutting ceremony today at the Ottawa Public Library for the Teen Zone developed by Earl students. (f) About 600 honour roll certificates have been signed! The awards ceremony is Thursday October 29th. An ongoing concern is people leaving before the end of the ceremony. Suggestion that teachers limit homework that day. (g) The grade 12 leadership class is raising a social conscience in the school – Black and White night, Rockathon on December 9th to raise funds for Operation Come Home, and the upcoming Ride A Thon that raised $4,500 last year. (h) Superintendent Laura McAlister was in the school two weeks ago and again spoke highly of the school. Literacy scores (97% success, 2nd in OCDSB) and grade 9 math EQAO (2nd or 3rd in OCDSB) are both outstanding. (i) Questions and comments. Question asked as to how many students drop math after grade 11. Comment that math should be compulsory in grade 12. Comment that perception is that math is tougher at Earl. Comment that kids underestimate the need for math in careers. Comment from JP King that students can access a math video tutorial site for free from 8am to 3pm (www.mathschoolprep.com with username EOMSSK2K1Y4, password eommath1). Steve mentioned an example that if grade 11s don’t know an answer they would most likely ask an expert where as primary school kids tend to go through multiple steps before asking the teacher. Over this last generation, emphasis has shifted from having knowledge to thinking and applying that knowledge.

10. Secondary School Committee Report. Erma Caissie-Richards gave the Secondary School Committee Report. (a) Objectives. The objectives of the Secondary School Committee are to: (i) Increase parent knowledge of and involvement in secondary school education in Ottawa-Carleton; (ii) Promote the development of school councils and parent associations to represent parents of students in each Ottawa-Carleton secondary school; (iii) Sponsor and encourage research into and study of education issues and concerns in Ottawa-Carleton secondary schools; (iv) Formulate recommendations regarding secondary school education in Ottawa-Carleton, and to assist in implementing such recommendations. (b) Joanne Curran from the Hopewell Centre gave an overview of a presentation entitled “Teen Truth: An Inside Look at Body Image”. Body Image is “a picture of one’s physical look established by self-observation and by noting the reaction of others.” Eating disorders are the most chronic illness in the female adolescent population with an incidence of one in twenty girls. A 2001 study reported 23% of adolescent females were dieting to lose weight. Boys want to be “bigger, stronger, faster”. They may use performance enhancing drugs, G&C pills, and anabolic steroids. They need to know the effects of these drugs, including depression when they stop taking them, liver tumors, acne, muscle aches etc. Teenagers think their parents do not want to know they are unhappy. A growing number of men and 90% of women do not like their bodies. Kids think they are the only ones who are uncomfortable. “I feel fat” is not a feeling but a way of describing their feelings of discomfort. Parents need to start the conversation early so that kids understand they are not alone, that all kids feel the same. The profile of girls with eating disorders note they are perfectionists and usually are very involved in school activities and academic achievement. Comments by teachers in the hallways that the donut they are about to eat “will go straight to my thighs” or compliments to someone who loses weight that they look great are damaging. Inside, teenagers feel their life is beyond control but they feel they can control their bodies. Eating Disorders have a higher mortality rate than any other mental illness – between 18 – 20%. Bulimia is the largest percentage of eating disorders – up to 20% and anorexia is a smaller percentage. The objective of the presentation is to give parents and school the information they need to help students. Hopewell will meet with social workers in the school. This video is the third installment of topics affecting teenagers: the other two are Bullying and Drugs and Alcohol. The other videos have been seen by over 50,000 people in the United States and in 6 of the 10 provinces. The centre is called Hopewell because they are “hoping for wellness”. CHEO has a clinic program but teens must be referred by their family doctor and there is a 4 month waiting list. Hopewell services include transitioning back into the community and prevention training workshops for teachers and guidance counselors. They do not have a treatment program but there is a support group for parents and teens older than 17 years of age. In answer to a question about what parents should say, Joanne suggested we compliment children on their behaviors and not their appearance, role model behaviors and focus on the value of food instead of talking about good and bad food. If you suspect an eating disorder or steroid use, you need to ensure there are open lines of communication. Open communication lines should be established even before the event. As a parent you cannot force teens to get over their problems. Offer unconditional love and keep the lines of communication open and provide support. Mental illness is more difficult to deal with because there is no test like there is in a physical illness. So parents hope and wish otherwise. www.Hopewell.ca also provides advice for friends, covering topics of anxiety, depression and sexual abuse. The Hopewell Centre would like schools to buy the video. It is relevant to youth ages 12 – 18. Cost is $189 to buy the video which includes the curriculum. Discussion that Joanne be asked to speak at an Earl SC meeting, or that the Parent Resource Library purchase the video. (c) Education Committee Member SSC informed the committee that Life Threatening Policy (ie food allergies) at the Elementary level is in the process of being updated. (d) All are invited to Canterbury High School (Library) on Wed., October 28th at 7pm for Parent Info Evening 2009 with Guest Speaker, Douglas Scoular, PhD, will be speaking on “Facing Anxiety in Teens Together”. (e) EOM idea “Are Your Smarter than a High Schooler” was presented and received with enthusiasm. If it goes over well at EOM some other schools may be interested in trying it too. (f) The next SCC meeting is Thursday November 12th at 7:30 pm at Fisher Park PS.

11. Ontario Parents Reaching Out Grant. John Chaffey reported that the following motion passed unanimously by those who responded: That an application for the Ontario Parents Reaching Out grant be made in support of the project “Are You Smarter Than A High-Schooler” as described in the information provided to Earl of March School Council members on October 4, 2009 through electronic distribution and voting.” The grant application was submitted on time. John received a phone call from Cheryl Watson indicating that a decision has not been made as to whether all the criteria of the grant have been met. If the grant money is received, it will need to go through a separate account.

12. Other Business. (a) Steve will look at possible recommendations for the Premier Awards. (b) Monty noted that the constitution specifies that parents must be given more notice of upcoming elections. Many years, parents from feeder schools have been invited to the final meeting of the year of the Earl SC. (c) For some teachers, there were not enough interview slots available. It was noted that parents can email teachers at any time, and can also ask to speak to a teacher. (d) The staff directly was updated October 1st but long term substitutes cannot be listed.

13. Next meeting. The next meeting will be on Monday November 16, 2009 at 7:00 pm.

14. Adjournment. The business portion of the meeting adjourned at 9:20 pm.

15. Science Lab Tour. Steve Massey gave a 15 minute tour of two of the science labs, room 206 and room 210. Students moved into two of the labs on October 14th. Steve pointed out many new features in the labs. There is now gas, as well as hot and cold water. There are smart boards, fume hoods, and storage areas for chemicals. There are data runs in the ceiling for current and future needs. All eyes now face inward and face the teacher. There is provision for wheelchair access, both with access to the work station, and with the keyed and swipe entry to the lab room. The smart board has an overhanging projector and so it does not need calibration each time it is used. Very impressive!

September 2009

September 21, 2009

Present: Lise Adelson, Judy Barton, Erma Caissie-Richard, Samantha Caldwell, John Chaffey, Irene Cottee, Barb Courtman, Wanda Evans, Kay Fisher, Bev Frankish, Farzi Khazai, J.P. King, Marek Klemes, Kath Layne, Bill Lumley, Steve Massey, Elizabeth McGregor, Monty Montgomery, Nitesh Naidu, Sangita Patel, Leslie Penn, Tara Reid, Paulette Roberge, Caren Roberts, Brenda Rogers, Rosie Ruscitti, Mary Anne Trenker, Tingjian Zhang

Regrets: Tanya Bradley-Edwards

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

1. Opening remarks. The Vice-Chair, John Chaffey, opened the meeting at 7:00 pm with introductions, some general remarks, and an outline of the duties of School Councils.

2. Approval of Minutes. Minutes of the May 25, 2009 meeting were approved as issued (Irene, Elizabeth).

3. Annual Report. John reviewed the Earl of March Secondary School Council “Annual Report for the 2008-2009 School Year” that was written by Grant Edwards. See attached. John expressed appreciation to Grant for his quiet and professional leadership. He will be missed!

4. Elections. The following persons were elected for School Council positions for 2009/10:  Chair – John Chaffey  Vice Chair – Nitesh Naidu  Secretary – Bev Frankish  Web Content Manager – Bill Lumley  OCASC Secondary School Committee rep – Erma Caissie-Richard (Paulette Roberge b/up)  Grade 9 rep – Monty Montgomery  Grade 10 rep – J. P. King  Grade 11 rep – Elizabeth McGregor  Grade 12 rep – Tanya Bradley-Edwards

Additional Council members include Steve Massey (Principal), Jon Harris and/or Jayne Ford (Vice Principals), Samantha Caldwell (Student Representative) and Brenda Rogers (Teacher Representative).

REGULAR SCHOOL COUNCIL MEETING – SEPTEMBER 21, 2009

1. Opening remarks. The regular School Council meeting opened at 7:55 pm with opening remarks by the Chair, John Chaffey.

2. Agenda. The revised agenda was approved as issued.

3. Student Representative’s Report. Samantha Caldwell gave the Student Representative’s report. The grade nine barbeque on August 26th featured a live band. During the first three weeks of school, lunch activities for the grade nine were organized. The grade nine dance on September 11th ran very smoothly. The Terry Fox run will take place on September 25th. Auditions for the fall musical, Cabaret, are underway. Elections for the grade nine student council representative will take place on September 24th. College and university visits are underway.

4. Teacher Representative Report. Brenda Rogers gave the Teacher Representative report.

a) Social Science. The new world religions course will be offered next semester. A world multi-cultural map is being created by grade nine geography students. A grade nine trip to Sudbury is in the planning stage. Mr. Talarico and Mr. Woods will be presenting the ISU essay package to OHASTA (Ontario History Teachers Association) on November 5th. Kathy Scheepers’ grade 10 students will be going to a play “Til We Meet Again” at the NAC on November 3rd. The grade 12 History/Geography and Social Science teachers will be giving tutorials this fall on how to use the university library resources (print and on-line). In February there will be a field trip to Carleton U where students will have access to the library’s research lab and will be given a workshop by the library staff.

b) French, Arts, Business. There will be a new course offered next semester: information technology …the digital environment using current business software and including e-businesses. The Tycoon Club – 45 members strong – will be visiting Carleton U for ticket-tape stock trading. A cross curricular business/art/vocal group went to Opera Figaro at the NAC on September 18th as part of the Opera Lyra’s student opera education program. Auditions are complete for the musical “Cabaret” that will be presented November 20th to 22nd. The GLN40 leadership course will be taking charge of Terry Fox Run on September 25th.

c) English and Library. English is compiling dynamic ideas for differentiation. There is a new “smart board” in the department. Earl of March will be hosting the February PD English subject council; Kristin Riddell, president of English subject council, will be organizing the event. Information will be forthcoming regarding extra help for literacy preparation in October. Students are going to Statford this week to view four plays. Library research seminars for grades 9 and 12 are beginning shortly. The library is continuing to reach out to all types of readers with its Brain Power theme, both in selections of magazines and enlarging the fiction collection. The electronic data base is more accessible, and there continue to be books on display. Improvisation tryouts take place on September 21st. The play “Romeo and Juliet” will be held in April. Mr. Mitchell and Ms. Riddell will be hosting the Cappies at the Earl.

d) Special Education. The community living class went to the Richmond Fair on September 18th. A floor hockey tournament is being planned. Community Living will be hosting the annual holiday sale in December. There are three new students in Community Living this year and five will be graduating in June.

e) Guidance. Course changes have been completed. Counselors will be meeting with grade 9 students in early October to introduce the students to everything that is offered in the guidance department. Grade 12’s should have provided the Guidance Technician, Mrs. Murray, with their email addresses so they can get weekly updates of grad news. The University Information Program night will be held at the Earl this year on Tuesday October 20th; parents of Grade 12’s are encouraged to attend this evening with their son/daughter.

f) Science and Technology. The Web based IEP system on Trillium is being inputted; it will be tied to everything else on Trillium. Training may be implemented with BTT using Scratch (MIT). There are new curricula changes from grades 9 through 12. Teachers are doing their best without rooms and labs being ready.

g) Phys. Ed. Fall teams are all up and running: senior and junior soccer, girls rugby, tennis, golf, senior boys volleyball, varsity girls basketball, boys hockey non-contact. School game schedules can be found at www.fatdog.ca. A new EOM athletic website is being created; Dee B. is working with the help of Chris Barnabe’s BTT01 class.

h) Math. A grade 10 math teacher is going to a workshop this week regarding new procedures for summatives and exams in the grade 10 academic course.

i) School Trips. Mr. Trudel and Mrs. Rogers are doing a school trip to Egypt during March Break 2010.

j) Clubs. The Celebrating Culture club has 83 members signed up. There will be an assembly in November, and a staff fund raising dinner in October.

k) Comments and questions. (i) Clarification that Earl of March will be putting on two productions this year – a musical as well as a play. The play will not be entered in the Cappies competition. Mr. Massey described the Cappies program to incoming parents; it is a program, similar to the Oscars, where area high schools have student critics comment and write articles on their performances, and then nominations are given to the best performances in the region for a number of different categories (best actor, best song, best dance, etc). The awards gala is an impressive event, and one that Earl of March was well represented at last year, including winning the award for “Top Musical”! (ii) The grade ten math exam is a standardized board wide final exam.

5. Principal’s Report. Steve Massey gave the Principal’s Report. a) Welcome. Mr. Massey described a little of his background prior to coming to the Earl a year ago. He was VP at Glebe for two years, and prior to that was VP at Sir Guy Carleton. The Earl was his number one school of choice for its students, the community, and the caliber of the staff. The Earl of March is highly regarded. b) Focus for 2009/10. There will be three focuses: program pathway for all, communication both within the school and into the community, and community. (i) Although over 240 of the 265 graduates in 2009 entered post-secondary education, a focus is to provide a program pathway for everyone, whether it be workplace or further education. The challenge for staff is to provide differentiated instruction and allow students to learn in a variety of ways. (ii) A number of methods of being used to enhance communication: Meet the Teacher (over 600 came!), Synervoice, personalized agendas, frig calendars, web site, regular papers, and encouraging parents to come into the school. (iii) Students need to feel safe and feel a part of something in order to succeed. A phrase that is being introduced is “Discovering at Earl”. For example, the booth day, featuring more than 30 clubs, was promoted as “Showcase at Earl”. Efforts are being made to promote a sense of community among staff, and a sense of community among students. c) School Revitalization. (i) The science lab renovations were started in early June so that they would be completed by August 15th. Unfortunately, a number of completely unexpected structural problems were encountered and the work was not completed before fall classes began. Mr. Massey has had a meeting with the contractors twice a week every week since the beginning of June! The new timeline is that two labs should be ready for October 6th, and the final two on October 13th. In the meantime, two other labs in the building with water, that are not being renovated, are being rotated for use by the different science classes; in addition, the new curriculum that was introduced this year happens to be front loaded with theory so that has lessoned slightly the need for labs early in the year. A discussion followed. Suggestion that the labs at a nearby high school be used during the day or on evenings or weekends; this is very difficult logistically during the day (different timetables, labs already in use, buses expensive), and for legal reasons, parents would not be permitted to assist with supervising or driving after hours. Mr. Massey will confirm that other schools cannot be used and will continue to keep parents updated. Kudos were given to Mr. Massey and staff for being proactive in starting the renovations in early June instead of waiting until July! (ii) A number of areas in the school have been updated. There is new carpet upstairs, new tiles in the cafeteria, a new mural in the cafeteria, new stalls in the bathrooms, and a new large mirror in the ladies change room; new curtains in the ladies shower will be installed shortly. Comment that the soap dispenser in the upstairs washroom does not work [it works but is emptied out before the end of the day]. d) 40th Reunion. There are lots of opportunities to get involved in plans for the 40th reunion at Earl! There may be a spring gala event to raise funds for capital events (such as $12,000 to repaint the gym) and help is needed to both promote and get involved in the 40th reunion event. Donations of time, products and services will be gratefully accepted! e) Cabaret. Mr. Massey will be meeting with staff to ensure that the Earl production of “Cabaret” will be appropriate for a high school audience. It was performed at the Earl in 1987. f) Questions. (i) No, there is no formal training provided at the Earl for the SAT although information is available. (ii) The Parent Resource Library is temporarily housed in the library.

6. Other Business. There is a $1,000 “Parents Reaching Out” grant that may be available to Earl for engaging parent involvement in the community. Deadline for applying is October 15th. Decision that John will apply for the grant. If the grant money is received, and the funds cannot go through the school account, Erma offered to be the treasurer for the separate account.

7. Next meeting. The next meeting will be on Monday October 19, 2009 at 7:00 pm.

8. Adjournment. The meeting adjourned at 9:05 pm.

Minutes prepared by Bev Frankish

January, 2009

JANUARY 19, 2009

Present: Tanya Bradley-Edwards, John Chaffey, Irene Cottee, Grant Edwards, Bev Frankish, John Harris, Ruth Hawkins, Farzi Khazai, Marek Klemes, Kath Layne, Dave Loney, Steven Massey, Elizabeth McGregor, Leslie Penn, Rosie Ruscitti

Regrets: Kaitlin Erle

1. Opening remarks. Gant Edwards, Chair, gave opening remarks. An assortment of delicious refreshments was provided courtesy of Ms. Godfrey’s grade ten cooking class.

2. Agenda. The agenda was approved as issued (John, Tanya).

3. Minutes. Minutes of the December 15, 2008 meeting were approved as issued (Grant, Rosie).

4. Student Representative Report. Grant Edwards read the written report submitted by Kaitlin Erle. The musical is in full swing, exams begin January 23rd, and the winter sports are continuing or finishing.

5. Teacher Representative Report. Kathy Scheepers gave the teacher’s report. (a) Ado Huskic, in grade eleven, recently went to Italy for a martial arts competition and came in 3rd. Congratulations! (b) Mike Sammon’s Leadership class, in partnership with Dave Waterhouse, hosted the GLP floor hockey tournament on January 14th with Glebe, Bell and our two community living classes. The students are reading a novel and preparing a play for the spring. Comment that it would be encouraging to the performers if more EOM students are able to cheer them on. (c) The grade nine math EQAO will take place on January 20th and 21st. (d) The resource room is open every day at lunch to assist students and provide them with tips on preparing for summatives and exams. (e) 46 students are signed up for the 3rd annual Mt. Ste. Anne ski and snowboard trip the first weekend in March; Mrs. Cooley and Mr. Caap are the teacher supervisors. (f) In World History and Social Studies, ISU reports and essays have been handed in. The newly revamped grade 10 ISU instructional package is a significant improvement over the old duotang package. The revised grade 11 and 12 packages will be implemented shortly. Professor Bennett at Carleton University is using a deliverable process with her first year students that is modeled after the one developed at EOM! The traditional grade twelve trip to the Carleton University library is being planned for February. As always, EOM graduates have reported back that their essay writing and research skill level is superior to that of their first year university peers. (g) The former mural in the cafeteria has been photographed and archived, the walls have been primed, and the design of the new mural is underway. (h) Applications for the Young at Art competition and exhibition sponsored by the City of Ottawa for youth between ages 13 and 19 are due March 6th. There will be a display from the grade 12 lifedrawing art history projects for the next two weeks at the Beaverbrook Branch of the OPL. (i) A few winter teams are still in season (senior girls volleyball, junior boys basketball, girls hockey and curling) and the Nordic ski team and junior girls volleyball will be underway shortly. (j) Another multi-cultural club international food fair will be held before March Break. Question – where does the money go?

6. Changing Role of the V.P. Jon Harris spoke about the shift in the duties of vice principals and department heads over the last decade. After the 1999 reform, there was a big downward shift in the number of department heads in each school, and this has in part meant that, unlike their predecessors, many of the new vice principals have not been former department heads. Also, department heads must reapply every four years, and there is no longer release time. Some of the headships at EOM have been split into two positions. The ten day internship for VPs is very beneficial. There are three main roles of a VP: supervisory, management and program, and leadership. Jon believes in progressive discipline and restorative justice, and connects daily with troubled kids. Mr. Harris’s specific areas of responsibility include scheduling of students and staff supervision whereas Mrs. Ford oversees field trips. Leadership training happens the third Wednesday of the month at Confederation; this month will include Trillium training. There are fewer student teachers this year but the numbers should be restored for next year. Steve is very proud of all the staff!

7. Principal’s Report. Steve Massey gave the principal’s report. Ministry funding is tied to attendance, and there is a declining enrolment across North America. Although EOM is in competition for students, the zero transfer policy is still in effect. EOM is in the 4th year of a 5 year decline. Enrolment increased 23 students from the June 2008 numbers and so there was an end of September shuffle. A few courses have been added for next year, including Journalism. The number of students returning for a victory lap varies greatly from year to year; students must take at least three courses in any given semester. Data for next year will be entered the end of March Break and then staffing decisions will be made. The average daily enrolment figures (ADE) are snapshots taken October 31, March 31 and June 30; EOM has excellent attendance ratios.

8. 40th Anniversary in 2010. Mr. Massey reported that the art class is starting to map out the new mural on the cafeteria wall. Enhancing the school environment was discussed at the staff meeting. Suggestion that advertising be done through classmates.com or Facebook; this suggestion will be passed on to the committee.

9. OC Transpo Strike. Although attendance has remained very strong during the strike, the strike has had a huge impact on personal lives. Students having difficulty getting to co-op placements have done in-house activities instead. Suggestion that a link for car pooling amongst the EOM community be put on the web site. Decision that the exam schedule will remain unchanged; teachers will use professional judgment on any students unable to get to the school for their exams. Clarification that students will have up to three hours to write the two hour exams.

10. Parent Resource Library. Kathy Scheepers thanked Tanya for her assistance to date; Kathy will take over from here. The wall is up, and the shelves will be going in; ribbon cutting may be in about a month! A lot of money is still available for the purchase of magazines and other resources.

11. Secondary School Committee Report. Tanya Bradley-Edwards reported on the January 8th SSC meeting. (a) The meeting began with a tour of Canterbury High School. (b) Guest speaker Sgt. Mark Houldsworth gave a presentation on the School Resource officer program. The program started in 1990, and there are 24 SROs for the 352 schools. The SROs are involved with community relations, crime prevention, responding to incidents in the school or within the community that involves a student, investigating incidents, and being a pro-active presence. About 60% of their time is reactive and 40% proactive. There is a building collaborative relationship between students, school staff, addiction centres, counsellors and community. They deal with issues and trends such as gangs (no significant activity in Ottawa schools), drug use (an issue in every high school to some degree), and internet crime (such as on-line threats). Comment that having funding available for substance abuse counselling would be really helpful. The SRO program is at the discretion of the Chief of Police; Sgt. Houldsworth recommends writing a letter to the Chief of Police that emphasizes the importance of maintaining the program. (c) School safety, specifically first aid, was discussed. Earl has a Student Emergency Response Team. (d) There was an update from Trades and Tech, and the Secondary School Review Committee. There are currently six Specialist High Skill Major (SHSM) programs in place (five house building and one manufacturing program) but the committee is looking at the addition of a Business SHSM and Art Specialist SHSM. The OCDSB Focus programs are for one semester whereas the SHSM is multi-term (for 10 credits). (e) Textbook funding was discussed. At EOM, new textbook are required since the grade nine and ten science curriculum, and technology, is changing. Comment that an additional set of grade ten business textbooks would be beneficial if there are two sections in one semester.

12. Premier Awards. The nomination deadline for the provincial “Premier’s Awards for Teaching Excellence” is January 31st. Discussion that, due to the limited time available, and the lengthy submission process, that perhaps it would be best to pick names next September rather than trying to do a submission this year. Testimony that a few simple words of appreciation from a parent to a member of staff can have a profound impact! Suggestion that profiles of some of the outstanding teachers over the years could be compiled for the 40th anniversary.

13. Other business. (a) Sherry Lee, Student Success, will be asked if she can be the guest speaker next month. (b) A feed from the Presidential Inauguration will go into the TV in the upper foyer.

14. Adjournment. The meeting adjourned at 9:00 pm. The next two meetings will be on February 23rd and March 23rd.

November, 2008

Present: Barry Bickerton, Julia Bilenkas, Tanya Bradley-Edwards, John Chaffey, Irene Cottee, Grant Edwards, Bev Frankish, Ruth Hawkins, Farzi Khazai, Marek Klemes, Kath Layne, Toula Makris, Steve Massey, Elizabeth McGregor, Paulette Roberge, Rosie Ruscitti

Regrets: Kaitlin Erle, Kathy Scheepers

Opening remarks. Grant Edwards, Chair, gave opening remarks. An assortment of delicious refreshments was provided courtesy of Ms. Godfrey’s grade ten cooking class.

Agenda. The agenda was approved as revised (Ruth, Elizabeth).

Assessment and Evaluation. Special speakers for the evening were Barry Bickerton (Principal of Curriculum Services), Toula Makris (Curriculum Coach) and Julia Bilenkas (EOM Math Department Head). Toula reviewed the background on the “Educator’s Resource Guide” to Assessment, Evaluation and Reporting, a document ten years in the making. Its primary purpose is to improve student learning, and is based on international research. The basic tenets are: (a) achievement chart categories (b) assessing for learning and not assessment of learning (c) respecting teacher professional judgment versus relying only on grading and averaging (d) separation of behavior (learning skills) and achievement (e) using criterion-reference standards rather than ranking style (sorting and shifting). In the past, the emphasis was on evaluation (tests that are graded); now, the emphasis will be on assessment (things in class to show learning such as assignments, next steps). She gave the example of a pilot earning a final grade of 88.9% — which doesn’t sound as good once it was revealed that the pilot received a grade of 30% in landing the plane. Ms. Bilenkis indicated that the grades at EOM will reflect the most recent and most consistent results; if there are three tries, the first of which are misses, the grade will reflect the final success and not the two misses. A discussion ensued on whether universities are on board with this new approach used in high schools (such as not penalizing for missed deadlines). Barry commented that with the new method, teachers provide feedback along the way on the essay writing process rather than just evaluating the end product. Mr. Massey clarified that learning skills use to be included in the final mark. Now, a “zero” needs to be replaced by something else versus the old method of a student receiving “zero” or “ten percent off” with an assignment handed in late or not at all. Ms. Bilenkas noted that if an assignment is not handed in, the teacher is now required to work with the student and have a conversation to ask what they are going to do about it, and to work with them such as helping them become more organized. Barry outlined the consultation and approval process for the “Growing Success” document, culminating in a symposium in Ottawa in January 2009. Within EOM, the new directions on assessment and evaluation are being communicated to teachers through PD days, meetings with department heads and, in some cases, pulling departments today for a day. Decision that assessment and evaluation should be discussed again at a 2009 School Council meeting.

Minutes. Minutes of the October 20, 2008 meeting were approved as issued.

Student Representative’s Report. There was no student report.

Teacher Representative’s Report. There was no teacher’s report.

Principal’s Report. Steve Massey gave the Principal’s Report. Newsletter. A high quality glossy colour newsletter came home with the progress report cards. Well done! It was the first newsletter since 2003, and was put together by the two VPs. Coffee house. About 300 students attended the coffee house on November 13th. Fire drill. There have been two fire drills so far, with organizational improvements implemented in time for the second fire drill. There will be a lockdown practice in the next couple of months. Assemblies. There have been two assemblies; to change things up, grade nines and twelves, and tens and elevens, were paired together for the Remembrance Day assembly. The assembly, which was largely student driven but overseen by Kathy Scheepers, was really well done. There was also an assembly on child poverty. All but 12 grade nines participated in the Take Your Kid to Work day. PD Day. There were four schools – Bell, West Carleton, AY Jackson and EOM – and 260 teachers here for the PD day on November 14. Chapters. The fundraiser at Chapters will take place from 6 to 9 pm on Thursday November 27th with 15% of purchases going back to the school. Team building. There is a lot of team building going on and morale is quite high. The Christmas party this year will include children. The Grind. The Grind, on October 31st, raised lots of money for cancer. Facility improvements. The washroom cubicles walls and doors are aging and the hardware can no longer be properly repaired; the walls will all be replaced. The software for the 50 inch plasma TVs has been purchased and will be launched in the next four or five weeks; the hold-up is having the Board drill into the brick. Mark distribution. Based on the progress report cards, there were 1136 courses in grade 9; 5.8% of the courses were level 1 or below. In grade 10, 5.9% of the 1080 courses were level 1 or below; 14.5% of the 1237 grade 11 courses and more than 10% of the 969 grade 12 courses were level 1 or below. Note that level 1 is 50 to 59%. Funding has been set aside to work with twenty of the grade 11s that are at risk. Questions and comments. (i) There is no student newspaper this year; it has been tied to one teacher in the past and the teacher is no longer available. (ii) There is a code error in the “news and minutes” portion of the School Council section on the web site and so no minutes are available.

Secondary School Committee report. Farzi Khazai gave a report on the November 13th Secondary School Committee meeting. Link Program. This is a program offered at schools such as Gloucester and Bell whereby senior students are “linked” with grade nine students. The feedback from grade 9 students at these schools has been excellent but it takes a huge amount of time for the senior students. It is offered as both a credit course and non-credit program in the OCDSB. Discussion that it is likely not something that should be pursued for EOM since we already have leadership courses in grades 11 and 12, leadership camps, and a volunteer peer tutoring program. FSL. A survey is being distributed on the French as a Second Language program. A copy of the survey can be obtained by emailing . There will be no meeting in December.

Parent Resource Library. There was no update needed on the parent resource library.

Parent Communication. An expanded distribution list is being compiled for School Council minutes and news; parents have emailed to get their email addresses added to the distribution list as a result of an announcement in the newsletter and on Synervoice.

Other Business. Premier Award nominations are due in January. Kaitlin Erle will be asked for suggestions.

Next meeting. The next meeting will be on Monday December 15th, 2008 at 7:00 pm.

Adjournment. The meeting adjourned at 9:00 pm. Minutes prepared by Bev Frankish

December, 2008

DECEMBER 15, 2008

Present: Tanya Bradley-Edwards, John Chaffey, Irene Cottee, Grant Edwards, Kaitlin Erle, Bev Frankish, Marek Klemes, Kath Layne, Dave Loney, Steve Massey, Debbie Monk, Rosie Ruscitti, Kathy Scheepers

Regrets: Ruth Hawkins, Elizabeth McGregor, Paulette Roberge

1. Opening remarks. Grant Edwards, Chair, gave opening remarks. An assortment of delicious refreshments was provided courtesy of Ms. Godfrey’s grade ten cooking class.

2. Agenda. The agenda was approved as revised (Kathy, Tanya).

3. Minutes. Minutes of the November 17, 2008 meeting were approved as issued (John, Irene).

4. Chapters Fundraising Update. Deborah Monk reported that the Chapters fundraiser was an unqualified success! It was well supported by staff, students and parents. Earl will look at doing it again next year – though the Senators schedule will be checked before picking a date. Earl students were showcased, through playing jazz and doing life drawings, and serving as student volunteers. Most of the suggestions of books to purchase were for fiction books. Approximately 60 door prize sheets were submitted, and approximately $475 was raised.

5. Student Representative’s Report. Kaitlin Erle reported that the canned food drive is almost up to 8,000 donations, with the busking week a success. Mr. Massey will likely be dying his hair green, Mr. Scheepers will become a blond, Mrs. Kirk is shaving her head, and a couple of die-hard Leaf fans will be donning Senator shirts! Students are being encouraged to stay for the holiday assembly on December 19th; the concert this year will feature special performances by a few teachers as “payment” for the phenomenal success of the canned food drive. Rehearsals are continuing for the musical “Thoroughly Modern Millie” that will be presented the weekend of February 7th. Volleyball, basketball and hockey are all in full swing. The winter dance was a success – the 350 attendees was a sell-out! The band concerts last week featured the three concert bands as well as performances by the two jazz bands and the Dixieland band. The OC Transpo strike is continuing to affect students although, as Mr. Massey pointed out, attendance has not been affected other than the first day of the strike.

6. Teacher Representative’s Report. Kathy Scheepers gave the teacher’s report. (a) Twenty-six girls from Kanata and area participated in a two day Engenuity workshop at EOM the weekend of November 29th, designed and delivered by Queen’s University Engineering students to introduce high school girls to the world of engineering. Comment that there should be equal opportunities given to guys. (b) Mrs. Day organized a group of six students to sing three song selections at the OCDSB organizational meeting on December 4th; Steve Massey attended the performance and was immensely proud of them! The Grade 10 concert band along with three ensembles performed at Castlefrank Public School on December 4th. Bob Rae was the keynote speaker – “Music is not a frill!” – at the Ontario Music Educator’s Association conference attended in early November by three of EOM’s music teachers. There were over 300 students playing in the Earl of March Music concerts on December 10th, with over 500 family and friends in attendance. The $900 collected in cash and cans at the concert helped to achieve the very ambitious goal of 8,000 cans. (c) The EOM girls’ hockey team organized and hosted the annual Ted Davis Memorial tournament on December 5th. EOM went undefeated in the round robin portion but lost in the final. The tournament raised $250 to go towards the Ted Davis award presented annually at the athletic banquet.

7. Parent Resource Library. Mr. Pemberton will be talking to Mrs. Hendricks shortly to decide on details of the display cupboard. Tanya graciously offered to help with cataloging. Donations of resources for the parent resource library will be graciously accepted!

8. School Environment Project. Debbie Monk has been asked by Mr. Massey to actively look at ways of better using the public spaces at EOM. The upper foyer is currently being very well used and has a sense of community whereas the lower foyer is much less inviting and functional. She is looking at ideas for treating the lower foyer as a public square as opposed to having the vending machines as the central focus! She has plenty of ideas – redoing the murals in the cafeteria, using grids to display student works, using modular pieces to sit and sell items, providing better signage, and using the mounted TVs. Student input is welcomed!

9. Earl of March website and School Council Wiki. Steve Massey gave a tour of some of the upgrades to the Earl of March website, and especially the new School Council Wiki. Clicking on “Quick Links” on the former School Council web page brings one into the Wiki home page (alternatively, “Earl Wiki” in the top right corner of the home page can be clicked). The November minutes and December agenda have been posted in the new Wiki site; other minutes will be posted by School Council.

10. OC Transpo Strike. Steve Massey provided some figures on the impact of the strike on students. Five OC Transpo buses served approximately 350 EOM students. 93% of students are at school during a typical November. The first day of the strike, 337 of 1123 students were absent (70% in attendance) but, since then, attendance has been right back up around 92% or 93%. Earl attendance has been a very pleasant surprise for Steve – students want to come to class, and most would choose to stay in class rather than go to special events. The strike has definitely impacted students but has not impacted attendance. Many students are being dropped off before 7:30 a.m. The OCDSB is investigating providing yellow buses.

11. Leadership Reflections. Steve Massey is a transparent guy with an open door policy, and welcomes feedback from students, parents, staff and the community. Comment from one parent that of seven principals, Steve is one of the two that is excellent. “No issues at all. Continue leading by the example you are.” At the music presentation at the OCDSB organizational meeting, our Superintendent of Instruction, Laura McAlister, commented to a parent on how privileged we must be feeling to have Steve Massey at EOM. One of the reasons Steve wanted to come to Earl was because of its strong academics – but he also wants to ensure that it is a place that supports students that don’t go to university. Many principals and VPs in the OCDSB now have young families and so attendance expectations for them at evening events are gradually shifting. At the Earl staff Christmas party this year, there were 56 children! The number of suspensions is down 70% this year but the suspensions are for longer – the VPs are focusing on working with the students rather than punishing them. A final example Steve gave of reasons he is proud of Earl is a “Speak Up” contest; a few students were mildly reluctant to write up a worthy proposal on improving school recycling because they wanted the potential $1,500 prize money to go to a more needy school!

12. Fundraising. Steve Massey sought the advice of School Council on raising funds to prepare for the 40th anniversary in 2010. As described by Debbie Monk, some thought is going into creative ways to spruce up the school. What are other schools doing for reunions? Merivale had theme rooms with music in each room. Canterbury had perhaps 2,500 people come back for their 25th, and charged people (eg. $25 if before December 31st, $40 in May). Suggestion that Farzi ask for input at the Secondary School Committee meeting. Revisit this in January.

13. Other Business. (a) Premier Award nominations are due in January. Grant will email Kaitlin; Student Council has already been given forms. Email any suggestions to Grant right away. (b) A copy of the letter sent home with grade ten students concerning the Ottawa Centre for Research and Innovation (OCRI) Technology Program was distributed. 27 EOM students will have the opportunity to participate in this exciting 2 credit focus program next semester.

14. Next meeting. The next meeting will be on Monday January 19th, 2008 at 7:00 pm.

15. Tour. (a) Using Room 2006 as an example, Steve explained the renovations that will start on June 1st in the four science rooms. The two main focuses will be taking out the tiers to make the rooms one level, and to eliminate the odour problems with the gray water. (b) The large screen TVs have been mounted and are displaying photos. Over the next several months, enhancements will be made to have ticker tape announcements along the bottom, and student work displayed on the top left. There will also be the capability to show videos. (c) The artistic displays of the 8,000 cans in the upper foyer is quite impressive! (d) Art work in the upper hallway display cases was highlighted. Of note, banners-in-progress on the floors in the upper foyer had no footprints on them! This is another reflection on the respectful attitude of the Earl students. (e) The locker bays are beginning to show their age. (f) Steve showed parents the location of the future parent resource library in Student Services.

16. Adjournment. The business portion of the meeting adjourned at 8:35 pm; most stayed for the guided tour that ended at 9:00 pm.

Minutes prepared by Bev Frankish

October, 2008

October 20, 2008

Present: Tanya Bradley-Edwards, John Chaffey, Irene Cottee, Grant Edwards, Kaitlin Erle (to 7:35), Bev Frankish, Farzi Khazai, Kath Layne, Dave Loney, Steve Massey, Elizabeth McGregor, Debbie Monk (to 7:25), Paulette Roberge, Rosie Ruscitti, Kathy Scheepers

1. Opening remarks. Grant Edwards, Chair, gave opening remarks. An assortment of delicious refreshments was provided courtesy of Ms. Godfrey’s grade ten cooking class.
2. Agenda. The agenda was approved as revised (John, Rosie).
3. Minutes. Minutes of the September 15, 2008 meeting were approved as issued. (John, Kaitlin).
4. Library Update. Mrs. Monk provided an update on the library. A lot has been happening! a) Library staff. Two staff are overseeing the library for semester 1 (Debbie Monk, Will Kelly) and two for semester 2 (Dom Talarico, Fred Caap). Heather Thompson has provided valuable assistance as a volunteer. b) Alexandria Migration System. The new web based system for library functions was installed mid-October. c) EBSCO database. The database has been renewed. It can be accessed from EOM, home or the library. d) Magazine subscriptions. A variety of subscriptions have been ordered. e) New books. Many new books have been donated or purchased. f) Inventory. This has been completed. g) Teacher resource centre. There is a reading room for staff that includes professional materials and newspapers. h) Welcoming environment. Continued strides are being made to provide a welcoming environment in which to read and research. i) Fundraiser for literacy. The library and the balanced literacy committee are partnering with Chapters to raise funds for new book purchases. The EOM community is invited to shop at Chapters on Thursday November 27th from 6 to 9 pm, with 15% of their purchases coming back to the school. j) Questions and comments. i) Magazines in future years may be available at discounted prices through QSP. ii) Many of the books discarded from the library will still find a home elsewhere. iii) Suggestion that resources in the parent resource library be linked with the teacher resource library. iv) Email Debbie Monk at Deborah.Dewar- if you would like to volunteer in the library or at the Chapters fundraiser. The fundraiser will be advertised through email and synervoice.
5. Student Representative’s Report. Kaitlin Erle gave the Student Representative’s report. a) Gotcha begins on Wednesday. b) Rehearsals are underway for the production of “Thoroughly Modern Millie” the weekend of November 21st [postponed to weekend of February 7th] c) The cake auction was a success. d) Athletic Leadership is collecting money and holding intramurals all week for Ryan’s Well. e) Student vote results: Greens 1st place, Conservatives 2nd place. EOM made the CTV National News! f) The Fall Leadership Camp will take place on the weekend of October 24th to 26th. g) The first dance will be in December.
6. Teacher Representative Report. Kathy Scheepers gave the Teacher Representative report. a) Athletics. There is a very large cross country team this year – 32! Three individuals medaled at the West Conference meet (Allison Penner 3rd MG, Allana Macaulay 3rd JG, Tyson Toney 2nd SB) and the Midget girls team came 2nd. The NCSSAA meet is on October 23rd. A grade eleven student at EOM just returned from the 2008 Commonwealth Youth Games in India with a silver medal in wrestling! b) Student Services. Take your Kids to Work day is on November 5. The Post Secondary Info assembly will be held for all grade 12s on October 20. Ms. Gervais will be filling in on a medical leave. Student Services is beginning to meet with all grade 9s. Comment that the E-info website at http://www.electronicinfo.ca/en /index.php?j=1 would be useful for the grade 11s when they fill out their option sheets for grade 12. c) World-Social Sciences Department. A few grade 10 history students are attending a Veterans Week ceremony on November 6th. The Remembrance Day ceremony at EOM on November 11th will be staff and student directed. Several grade ten students have entered the Passchendaele Great War Letters Contest. Grade 12 students went to the Carleton University library on October 10th. Parenting students are now caring for their electronic dolls. Classes have started research for their summative essays. M. Trudel is in the very early stages of planning a trip to Egypt for March Break 2010.
7. Principal’s Report. Steve Massey gave the Principal’s Report. a) Superintendents. Laura McAlister, Superintendent of Instruction, and Diane Jeudy-Hugo, Executive Superintendent, both paid visits to EOM today. Mr. Massey outlined various initiatives with them such as PD day topics, the OCHRI technology initiative, building teams within the building, staff supervision and staffing additions. b) Sections added. An additional 9 sections were allocated to EOM because of an increase of 30 students over projections. c) Debt. The school is trying to renegotiate the Ventrax contract. d) Improvements to facility. Renovations to the four science labs are scheduled for next summer!!!! Painting in the main gym will be budgeted next year or the year after. Huge weeds have been cut down around the bleachers, and the track has been resurfaced. Enhancements will be made to the staff room as well as the upper and lower foyers. Two 50” plasma televisions have been purchased to display announcements, student work, etc in the foyers; software is needed. Mr. Massey will check into mounting recent banners and repairing the clock in the main gym. e) A summary of the minutes of the EOM Heads meeting on October 7th was distributed.
8. Professional Development. Steve Massey gave a thirty minute summary of the PowerPoint presentation and video that was shown at the Professional Development day on October 3rd. He reviewed a number of statistics on the pathways taken by the class of 2008 and then showed the eight minute “shift happens – Did you know?” video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pMcfrLYDm2U). Finally, he distributed the forward to the OCDSB publication on “Assessment, Grading and Reporting”. The document explains the shift from a teacher comparing one student’s achievement with the achievement of his or her peers (and assigning A, B, C, D and Fs), to expecting that all students achieve proficiency on essential elements of the curriculum. “The appropriate consequence for failing to complete an assignment is completing the assignment.”
9. Secondary School Committee report. Farzi Khazai gave a report on the October 9th Secondary School Committee meeting. a) The French as a Second Language (FSL) program is being evaluated this fall with surveys. 52% of elementary students, and 15% of secondary students are in FSL programs. b) There was further discussion on the specialist programs whereby students will earn up to 10 of their 30 credits, and a certificate, in a specialist area such as house building, tool and die, or high tech. c) There will be a presentation on “Teenage Drug and Alcohol Use” at Sir Robert Borden on November 6th at 7 pm. d) The Trades and Tech committee is continuing to explore introducing tech in grades 7 and 8.
10. Parent Resource Library. Ruth Hawkins and Kathy Scheepers reported that the 20% corporate discount was used at Chapters to purchase $285 of books and then $50 was spent elsewhere. Mrs. Scheepers has arranged to have display shelves manufactured in house (for cost of materials only) and to have a plaque made on the CNC machine at Sir Guy Carleton. Paulette graciously volunteered to catalogue the books. Motion that up to $350 of the Parent Communication grant money be used for the display shelves and that any overage up to $450 be covered by Mr. Massey. Carried.
11. Community Representation. There are ongoing efforts to find a community representative. The owner of the nearby pizzeria is not interested.
12. Parent Communication. There was a brief discussion on how School Council can better serve the parent community. This may include advertising that parents can ask to be put on an email list, and having a School Council information table at open houses or other events.
13. Other Business. (a) There was further discussion and clarification on assessment and evaluation.
14. Next meeting. The next meeting will be on Monday November 17th, 2008 at 7:00 pm. Agenda items will include a speaker on the assessment and evaluation policy, trustee feedback, and textbook shortages.
15. Adjournment. The meeting adjourned at 9:00 pm.

Minutes prepared by Bev Frankish

September, 2008

SEPTEMBER 15, 2008

Present: Tanya Bradley-Edwards, John Chaffey, Grant Edwards, Kaitlin Erle, Bev Frankish, Jon Harris, Ruth Hawkins, Farzi Khazai, Marek Klemes, Kath Layne, Dave Loney, Steve Massey, Elizabeth McGregor, Rosie Ruscitti, Kathy Scheepers, Mary Anne Trenker

Annual General Meeting

1. Opening remarks. The Chair, Grant Edwards, opened the meeting with introductions, some general remarks, and an outline of the duties of School Councils.
2. Annual Report. Grant reviewed the Earl of March Secondary School Council “Annual Report for the 2007-2008 School Year”. Activities included hearing from several guest speakers, putting forth teacher nominations, providing input into the revised policy on dances, and establishing a parent resource library.
3. Elections. The following persons were nominated for School Council positions for 2008/09: Chair – Grant Edwards Vice Chair – John Chaffey Secretary – Bev Frankish Web Content Manager – Ruth Hawkins OCASC Secondary School Committee rep – Farzi Khazai (Tanya Edwards b/up) Grade 9 rep – Rosie Ruscitti Grade 10 rep – Elizabeth McGregor Grade 11 rep – Kath Layne Grade 12 rep – Dave Loney

Motion that the proposed slate be accepted. Carried unanimously.

Additional Council members include Steve Massey (Principal), Jon Harris and/or Jayne Ford (Vice Principals), Kaitlin Erle (Student Representative) and Kathy Scheepers (Teacher Representative).

On the suggestion of Jon Harris, the web page will now contain contact information with the names of Council members — but it will be generic gmail addresses that are used, and ones that will automatically be forwarded to personal email accounts.

Regular School Council Meeting– September 15, 2008

1. Opening remarks. The regular School Council meeting opened at 7:30 pm with opening remarks by the Chair, Grant Edwards.
2. Agenda. The agenda was approved as issued.
3. Minutes. Minutes of the May 26, 2008 meeting were approved as issued. (Dave, Elizabeth)
4. Student Representative’s Report. Kaitlin Erle gave the Student Representative’s report. a) The grade nine dance on September 12th went well; there were no issues. b) Elections for the grade nine Student Council rep will be on September 25th. c) A grade nine day will be held at Confederation High School on September 23rd. d) Tryouts and practices are underway for the fall sports – girl’s basketball, girl’s field hockey, senior boy’s volleyball, cross country, and boy’s hockey. e) Auditions for the fall musical “Thoroughly Modern Millie” and auditions for the Senior Jazz band are underway. f) There are upcoming field trips to Stratford on October 2nd, an opera field trip on September 19th, and a field trip for the Cappies critics. g) The Fall Leadership Camp will take place on the weekend of October 24th to 26th. h) Student Council is planning a Spirit Week the week of September 22nd, culminating in a barbecue on Friday September 26th.
5. Teacher Representative Report. Kathy Scheepers gave the Teacher Representative report. a) Co-Op. The vast majority of co-op students have been placed with organizations and businesses in the community – elementary schools, the EOM community living classes, trades, and the financial sector. The community remains very supportive in providing placements to our students. b) World-Social Sciences Department. Welcome back to Ms. Godfrey who is back after a year’s absence, and is teaching the grade 10 foods course. Mr. Darbyson is finalizing details of the trip to the U.S., likely to Washington. c) Grade 9 Science 9 (French). The students are “eggcited” about incubating eggs for the biology reproduction unit. d) Technology. The Broad Based Tech department has experienced growth for the fifth consecutive year – there are now 15 sections. Improvements are continuing in the shop facility with major safety upgrades to the fixed table saw. If anyone has ideas for projects that will benefit the school community, please see Mr. Pemberton. e) Student Services. Mrs. Bondy is collecting email addresses of the grade 12s so that they can be kept up to date with university and college information. College Dialogue will take place at the EOM on September 23rd, and the University Information Program will be held at A.Y. Jackson on October 21st from 7 to 9 p.m. “Choices” is available in guidance to assist students in defining their interest in life; a demonstration can be done for School Council. The web site www.electronicinfo.ca has a listing of programs at all the Ontario Universities and the criteria necessary to get in. The last day for course changes (other than some level changes after the first report card) is September 19th. f) Educational Trip. There are 30 students already registered for the grade 11 and 12 trip to London, Paris and Rome with “EF Educational Tours” from March 5 to 16, 2009. Suggestion that an attempt be made to try to move the trip back a week so it coincides with March Break – a week later than expected.
6. Principal’s Report. Steve Massey gave the Principal’s Report. a) Welcome. This is Mr. Massey’s first principalship. The Earl was his number one school of choice for its students, the community, and the caliber of the staff. The Earl of March is highly regarded. b) Numbers. There are 1130 students registered at Earl this fall (278 grade 9s, 256 grade 10s, 301 grade 11s, and 295 grade 12s) plus 17 D.E.U. and close to 100 staff. c) Layouts. The layout of the office has been changed, the Student Success Program has been moved into Student Services, and a reading room has been identified for the Parent Resource Library. d) Focus for 2008/09. There will be three focuses: program pathway for all, student attendance, and communication both within the school and into the community. The vast majority of the 2008 graduates entered university this fall; incredibly, these graduates received $947,000 in scholarships. e) Student and staff safety. This includes having many eyes in the community, holding lunchtime activities to engage students, having sanctioned evening activities, changing the layout of the office to make it safer and more inviting, and reviewing and practicing emergency procedures. f) Grade 9 Day. A full day workshop for all EOM grade 9s at Confederation High School on September 23rd will promote team building and develop ties. There will also be lunch time activities for grade 9s during the first few weeks of school. g) OCRI Technology Project. A partnership is continuing with the Ottawa Centre for Research Innovation and the Earl of March. There will also be a pilot program to expose 20 to 30 grade 10 students to technology in the workplace. h) Staff Professional Development. The October 3rd PD day will focus on assessment, evaluation and reporting, and program pathways. The November 14th PD day will be a joint venture with West Carleton and A.Y. Jackson, and will again look at assessment, evaluation and reporting. There is also a PD component at regular staff meetings. i) Upcoming events. Upcoming events include the following: OC Transpo pictures (September 18), Meet the Teacher (September 18), Spirit Week (September 22 to 26), Grade 9 Day (September 23), OCRI Technology launch (September 30), Progress Reports (October 9), Parent/Teacher Interviews (October 16). j) Questions. (i) There will be a drill for securing the school but it is less likely that there will be lock-downs involving dogs in the near future at EOM. The false 911 calls at area schools last year were quite unsettling. (ii) The school does not have a defibrillator on premises but there is one at the John Mlacak Centre. Many on staff are trained in first aid, and there is also a student emergency response team at the Earl of March. (iii) Suggestion that there be a guest speaker addressing School Council on changes to assessment and evaluation. (iv) Clarification that Ontario requires students to either receive a diploma or stay in school until age 18.
7. Secondary School Committee report. Farzi Khazai gave a report on the Secondary School Committee meeting from September 11th. a) The Secondary School Program Review Ad Hoc Committee is stepping down and a new Steering Committee is being established. Their mandate will include monitoring the SSP delivery in the OCDSB and to modify the framework as required. b) A staff report on additional Advanced Placement courses will be presented in February 2009, and on secondary gifted centres by November 2009. c) The Board has approved a plan for data collection and consultation for secondary school French as a second language review. d) There are five new Arts Focus programs this year – world music, musical theatre, visual arts, and two dance courses. e) Teachers in the Board have had workshops on how to incorporate Trades and Tech into the grade 7/8 science curriculum. f) Discussion at the SCC meeting that there is little opportunity for follow-up on report cards at the end of a term or the year. Steve Massey commented that there should be multiple points of contact and that it is a two way street.
8. Parent Resource Library. Ruth Hawkins and Kathy Scheepers reported that many of the books have arrived and that they are still buying other books and resources. Some of the “wish list” was not available through Chapters. Tanya and Grant have generously offered to donate their Karyn Gordon CDs to the Parent Resource Library. Mrs. Scheepers will ask teachers for further suggestions of resources. Suggestion that parents also be asked for donations of resources. Suggestion that a hyperlink be put on the web site to let parents be aware of the resource library. Mr. Pemberton will be asked if shelves can be made by the tech department.
9. Community Representation. Ideally, there should be at least one community representative on School Council. Discussion that there may be interested individuals at a nearby pizzeria, at companies that provide co-operative experiences for EOM students, or within the Beaverbrook Community Association or other community associations.
10. Focus of School Council for 2008/09. Suggestions of focuses for this coming year include the following: (a) Make teacher nominations for awards. (b) Continue to implement the Parent Resource Library. (c) Continue the practice of having guest speakers at the meetings. Suggestions include assessment and evaluation, Sherry Lee on Student Success, Diane Bondy and Rob Ferguson. (d) Actively plan and prepare for EOMs 40th anniversary in 2010. Suggestion that a “Wall of Fame” be developed to augment the athletic wall of fame. Suggestion that somewhat inaccessible photos in upper foyer somehow be given more prominence.
11. Other Business. (a) A question was raised about Ontario students entering the University of Ottawa being inadequately prepared for calculus; this resulted from a transition year in the ministry math curriculum a couple of years ago and is no longer a problem. An observation was also made that there has been an upward grade creep from a generation ago. (b) A précis version of the minutes of the department heads meeting may be made available to the School Council Chair. (c) EOM is next in the cue for revamped science labs. Hopefully work will be carried out next summer. (d) Meet the Teacher night is on September 18th. Grant will give a brief address to the parents. In addition, a handout on School Council, if written up, can be distributed during the evening. (e) In response to a question, Mr. Massey indicated that no, there is not a new field trip policy this year. (f) Is there a means of increasing multi-cultural representation on the EOM School Council?
12. Next meeting. The next meeting will be on Monday October 20, 2008 at 7:00 pm.
13. Adjournment. The meeting adjourned at 9:20 pm. Minutes prepared by Bev Frankish