Weekly Broadcasts are sent home to all GDHS families every Friday.

START OF YEAR NEWSLETTER FOR 2024-2025

Hello Parents/Caregivers and GAELS!

PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE

Welcome to the 2024-2025 school year.  My name is Brad Milne, and I am proud to be the new Principal of Glencoe District High School. Beyond teaching in both the elementary and secondary panels, I have most recently been a vice-principal at three other Thames Valley District School Board schools: Banting S.S., West Elgin S.S., and Strathroy District Collegiate Institute. I have heard so many wonderful things about GDHS and the greater Glencoe community, and I am truly looking forward to my first year at the school and being part of the community.

I strongly encourage students to get involved in the school. Following elementary school, the high school experience moves along quickly.  I hope students put forth their best in their daily courses while taking time to engage in extra-curriculars at GDHS.  If students are experiencing any challenges, please encourage them to connect with a teacher, Guidance, or with me.  I hope the summer has been a positive for everyone and we look forward to getting things going in September.

As I look forward to a positive year, I know I will put forth my best each day to positively work with all members of the GDHS and Glencoe community. I hope and expect all students to put forth their best to be excellent representatives of the school and the greater Glencoe community.   

A new school year means different things to students at different levels of learning during one’s educational journey. Glencoe is a place that appreciates the grade 9 students who are starting a new experience in high school. I met with all those who attended High School Here I Come last week, and certainly look forward to meeting all grade nines when school starts up. We have students taking grade 10 courses, who now understand what life in high school is like and know that this is the year when they have the first opportunity to find success in the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT), which is a graduation expectation. Then, there are students taking grade 11 courses who are making course choices to prepare for life after high school. Finally, we have students taking grade 12 courses, who are in their final year of high school and cannot believe how quickly the high school experience has gone.  To all families, please encourage your student to put forth one’s best effort on a daily basis, so everything is being done to achieve one’s goals.    

Please remember that the first day of school is Wednesday, September 4th.

I look forward to a great year! 

Please do not hesitate to contact me, if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Mr. Brad Milne (he/him)
Principal of GDHS
519-287-3310 ext 67694 or b.milne@tvdsb.ca

SCHOOL CONTACT INFORMATION:

Phone:  519-287-3310
Principal - Mr. Brad Milne ext. 67694 – b.milne@tvdsb.ca 
Admin Secretary - Mrs. Shona Sanders ext. 67692 – s.sanders@tvdsb.ca
Guidance Counsellor - Mr. Chris Taylor ext. 67695 - christopher.taylor@tvdsb.ca
Guidance/Attendance Secretary - Mrs. Tracy Harvie ext. 67696 - t.harvie@tvdsb.ca

Teachers, our social worker, our public health nurse, and other staff may be reached by email (through the Contact Us page on our website) or by calling the school and leaving a message. 

2024-2025 SCHEDULE – click here for the TVDSB Secondary Calendar

Semester 1 (September 4, 2024 - January 31, 2025)
Semester 2 (February 3, 2025 - June 27, 2025)

GDHS DAILY SCHEDULE

Period 1 - 9:05am - 10:20am
Period 2 - 10:25am - 11:40am
LUNCH - 11:40am - 12:30pm
Period 3 - 12:30pm-1:45pm
Period 4 - 1:50am - 3:05pm

***Assessment/Evaluation/Exam periods run January 24, 2025 - January 31, 2025 and June 20, 2025 - June 27, 2025.  Families are asked to avoid booking appointments and booking vacations during that time.

TIME SENSITIVE ITEMS:

GDHS CAFETERIA:

The cafeteria (Compass Group) is looking to hire a new Cafeteria Supervisor so the cafeteria will be closed until they find new staff.  Students should plan to bring their own lunch/snacks or purchase from one of the restaurants in Glencoe until further notice.  We will keep you posted.

PARENT PORTAL - PLEASE VERIFY CONTACT INFO, MEDICAL AND PHOTO CONSENTS ASAP

The Parent Portal is now open to verify that your student(s) contact information and emergency contacts are correct, as well as any important medical information is up-to-date, and confirm your photo consents (if you need to make any changes to the portal, please email t.harvie@tvdsb.ca ASAP and we will make the corrections). It's vital that this information is all current and up-to-date by September 6. If you need assistance logging into your Parent Portal, please email t.harvie@tvdsb.ca. t.harvie@tvdsb.ca.

STUDENT FEES ($25)

Student Activity fees help cover the cost of student events like GAEL Force, our Christmas Feast, Rural Appreciation Day, Semi-Formal, and other student related activities, etc.  This fee also includes a photo ID card.  From time to time there are minimal fees added (e.g. $10 ticket to attend semi-formal) to cover extra expenses like security, decorations, and DJ costs.  Online payment is preferred and the link to pay will be available next week.  Cash/cheque will be accepted in Guidance.

ATHLETIC FEES ($25)

All students who participate on sports teams at GDHS are asked to pay a once a year Athletic Fee of $25.  This primarily help covers the cost of teams who qualify for WOSSAA, OFFSSA as well as our Celebration of Athletes event at the end of the year, and other athletic activities.  For certain events athletes must pay extra fees to participate (e.g. Track & Field athletes pay per event).  Online payment is preferred and the link to pay will be available next week.  Cash/cheque will be accepted in Guidance.

ATHLETE PROFILE PACKAGE (Any student taking Phys Ed or participating on a team must complete the package prior to tryouts or participating in gym).

GDHS is no longer using PRIVIT online for athletes, therefore, athletes are required to have the package completed and signed before participating in any physical activity at GDHS (Phys Ed, Intramurals, Sports Teams).  Click here to print the Athlete Profile Package or pick up a hard copy from Mr. Sutton, our Athletic Director.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

All students are required to be properly dressed for physical education classes.  Students taking physical education courses at GDHS must be prepared to have supportive running shoes, athletic socks, T-shirt and shorts.  Students are also advised not to leave any money or valuables in the change rooms.  Those who do, do so at their own risk. 

GDHS SPIRIT WEAR!

GDHS Spirit Wear for the fall will be available through a NEW online store.  Stay tuned for the link!

PHOTO DAY

Photo Day is Thursday, September 5.  Come dressed with your best smile! Orders may be place online by clicking here by using your student number.  Student ID cards will be issued after photos are taken.  School photo order envelopes for cash/cheque payments are available for pick up in Guidance.  Students should give that envelope to the photographer when they have their photo taken.

SCHOOL COUNCIL MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 AT 6:00PM

Parents/Guardians will meet to learn about all the new initiatives planned for the 2024-2025 school year.  Becoming part of School Council requires a very minimal amount of time and energy. There are approximately four-five, one hour, meetings a year. Hear about what our staff and students have been doing, what we are planning and have a say on what you would like to see happen.  If you would like to become involved, participate or just attend a meeting, contact the school at 519-287-3310 x 67692.  Our first meeting is scheduled for Thursday, September 26 at 6:00PM. 

COMMENCEMENT - THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10 at 7:30PM

Our annual Commencement and Undergraduate Ceremony takes place on Thursday, October 10 at 7:30PM.  Students who are receiving proficiency awards, achieved honour roll or who are winning special awards will receive an invitation to attend the first week of school.  Please RSVP by Friday, September 20. Undergraduate award winners are allowed to bring 4 guests and graduates are allowed to bring 8 guests.

CELL PHONES

Cell phones are allowed in class, but only when approved by the teacher.  We ask that parents/guardians only text/call their student during break times so not to interrupt the learning environment.  See the Daily Schedule above.  If a student is asked to hand over their phone due to misuse, they may be required to turn it in to the Principal and a call will go home for a parent/caregiver to pick it up. 

GUIDANCE APPOINTMENTS

If you need to make changes to your timetable, please email t.harvie@tvdsb.ca and Mrs. Harvie will add you to the list for the first day.  All appointments on September 3 are taken so we will assist students starting September 4 and will call them out of class when it’s their turn.  For students under 18, parents will need to approve any changes by signing the form sent home with the student.

OPEN GYM SCHEDULE

The schedule will be posted and announced during morning announcements.  Expectations are as follows:  Proper change of footwear (indoor running shoes and NO BOOTS); No food or drinks (water only); Respectful behaviour and appropriate language; Back stage area is out of bounds; No access to Equipment room without permission; Help set up Equipment/Activities; Return Equipment to Equipment Room at the end of lunch; Weight Room - only students with memberships are allowed.

FITNESS/WEIGHT ROOM (NEW LOCATION - ROOM 15)

The Fitness/Weight Room will only be available to those taking Phys Ed to start but will eventually be available for students to join.  Students must complete a Membership Application and be approved to join. 

CHROMEBOOKS

Class sets of Chromebooks are available again this year.  All teachers will maintain a Google Classroom or use the Brightspace Platform for their classes.

SCHOOL SUPPLIES

Students should come prepared with writing utensils and paper.  Students needing support with school supplies and backpacks should see Mrs. Sanders in the Main Office. She has backpacks ready to go for those in need.  Class sets of Chromebooks are available while at school but if a student has their own device, they are welcome to use it.  It’s the responsibility of the student to take care of it and keep it secure.  We also have backpacks with some school supplies available in the Main Office for students who need them.

ENTRY & EXIT OF GDHS

Students may enter/exit through any door at GDHS.  Parents/Caregivers and community members may enter through the front doors or the entry/exit from the student parking lot and report immediately to the Main Office.  We will be having some construction around the entrances, but notice will be given and signs posted when the time comes.

LOCKERS

Lockers are assigned and open!  Your locker assignment is posted on the bulletin board across from Mr. Taylor’s office.  LOCKS ARE NO LONGER FOR SALE AT GDHS so please remember to bring your lock back from last year or purchase a new one before the first day of school.  Signed locker contracts and combinations will be submitted to your homeroom teacher.  Students with Period 1 spare are to see Mrs. Harvie for their contract.

BREAKFAST CLUB

Our Breakfast Club is FREE and will provide the basics (granola bars, juice boxes, yogurt and fruit, etc.) and is located in front of the Main Office.  Please note that it will not likely be available until the second week of school. 

LUNCHTIME

All students who stay at school for lunch are asked to eat in the café.  Students may bring their lunch or buy from the cafeteria once it’s open.  Students may also eat outside if they wish or go uptown and support our local restaurants.  Students are required to be back and in class by 12:30PM sharp!   

WATER FOUNTAINS

Water fountains are accessible as well as our bottle refill station which is located outside the cafeteria.  Be sure to bring your own re-usable water bottle. 

SCHOOL MESSENGER APP

When reporting a student absence, please use the School Messenger App or call the school.  If you have a new student at GDHS you will need to download the app.  If you are a Grade 9 student with siblings in a TVDSB elementary school, then you will likely need to uninstall the app and reinstall to show your students at both schools after the first day of attendance. 

ATTENDANCE AND SUCCESS IN SCHOOL

One of the most accurate predictors of school success is attendance. Students who attend regularly succeed more frequently and to a higher degree than those whose attendance is irregular. The responsibility for attendance is a partnership between the home and the school.

SAFE ARRIVAL POLICY

The Safe Arrival Policy is designed to confirm the safety of students in the case of an unexplained absence.   Parents/Caregivers are required to notify the school about any absence or lateness involving their child(ren).  Students under 18 years of age cannot write their own notes or call themselves in absent.  A call from our Automated Attendance system will take place for students if they are absent for their first period on or around 10:00am.  Attendance is taken each period and submitted to the office so that absences can be verified by the attendance staff.  Another unexplained absence call-out takes place after 4:00pm every night.

ATTENDANCE EXPECTATION

Students are expected to be on time for every class.  Being on time is crucial for a student’s individual academic success and, as stated in the Education Act, (Reg. 298) “… a pupil shall… attend classes punctually and regularly.”

NETWORK STUDENT LOGIN INFO

Login:  StudentNumber@gotvdsb.ca
Password:  your student number (no hypens).  Students will be prompted to update their password when they first login.  Please DO NOT share your username and password.

SCHOOL WIFI

If you want to connect to the school Wifi on your personal device, you need to connect to "TVDSB-BYOD" (Bring Your Own Device) and use your Active Directory login (which is your student number).  If you have forgotten your password, then please try using your student number as your password.  If you still cannot connect, please see Mr. Periard or Mrs. Harvie for a password change.  We will do our best to assist you but please be patient.

BATHROOM PROTOCOL

There are two girls bathrooms (front and back of school) and two boys bathrooms (middle and back of school) and a gender neutral bathroom in Guidance.  Students are not allowed to congregate in the bathrooms.  Students should use the breaks between periods to use the bathroom facilities to avoid missing class.

BUS SCHEDULES AND DELAYS

For bussing information and to find out if buses are delayed or cancelled and the policies, please visit https://www.mybigyellowbus.ca/.   

THE 3 A’S!

Students who represent GDHS in any way whether it’s on a sports team, field trip or GDHS/TVDSB event, must meet the 3 A’s in order to participate.

Defining a Student in Good Standing:  The “3” A’s

1.  A.ttendance - If the student skips any class the day of a game he/she will not play in that game.  Unexplained Lates = Skips.  Five accumulated skips you will be benched.  Six skips you will be referred to Eligibility Committee.

2.  A.ttitude - The student must display good attitude at all times.

3.  A.chievement - The student must reach acceptable goals, be responsible and put forth a good effort.

STUDENTS’ COUNCIL/LEADERSHIP

Stay tuned for Students’ Council/Leadership details!  

ANONYMOUS REPORTING (mental health issues, bullying, vandalism, incidents)

We want to continue a positive relationship with the Town of Glencoe.  The Town of Glencoe is a business community and as such anyone in the town should be there for business purposes.  Students who loiter on private property may be subject to the Trespass to Property Act.  Be conscientious citizens.  Respect yourself and others.  Let’s continue to build a positive image of Glencoe District High School students in our community.  You may report anonymously any incidents of concern you witness through Reporting Anonymously link on our website.  You may also report through a caring adult within the school, any incidents of concern (mental health issues, bullying, vandalism, incidents) for yourself or another student. Reports are taken seriously and investigated. Please provide as much information as possible so we can follow up appropriately.

PRINTING PRIVILEGES AT GDHS

At the start of every semester each TVDSB student is given $5 worth of print credits.  If you run out of print credits just stop by the Main Office to request a top up.

PROGRESS REPORTS AND REPORT CARDS

GDHS staff believe that open communication with students and their parents around student progress is important. We will broadcast and post to our social media channels when we host Parent/Teacher interviews and when Mid-term, ¾ Progress Marks and Final Report Cards/Marks are available.  If you suspect that your child is having some difficulties, do not hesitate to contact their teacher(s) at any time. You may also contact our Guidance Counsellor/Student Success teacher, Mr. Taylor, or Mr. Milne, our Principal.

REPORT CARDS - NEW THIS SCHOOL YEAR

Due to increased postage costs and budget cuts, report cards will no longer be mailed home and only be printed when requested.  Marks/Comments/Learning Skills will be posted to the Parent/Student Portals for mid-term and final marks only. ¾ Progress Marks will be given to students on specific days between mid-term and finals.  These dates will be communicated to families ahead of time via social media channels, website, and Weekly Broadcast emails.

STUDENT PARKING

The student parking lot is on the west side of the school. For safety reasons, students with vehicles are reminded to wait for the buses to pull away before entering or leaving the parking area.  Unsafe driving practices can result in removal of parking privileges on school grounds.  If you are a student that drives yourself to school, please see the Main Office for a Student Parking Application and Agreement.   

STUDENTS TURNING 18 DURING THE SCHOOL YEAR

Students who turn 18 during the school year are considered to be an adult and are responsible for signing themselves in/out of school.  The Ministry of Education requires that legitimate reasons for absences be documented.  If 18 year olds have too many unexplained absences, an appointment will be made with the school administration to determine if they will continue as a student at GDHS.  18 year olds have the option to keep all their contact information and permissions the same or they have the right to remove parent/caregiver from receiving report cards, having access to attendance records, receiving attendance phone calls, and/or having conversations with staff.  Students who turn 18 will need to complete consent paperwork in Guidance when the time comes. Please see Mrs. Harvie for more information.

SMOKING and/or VAPING

Smoking and/or vaping on school property is NOT permitted.  Anyone caught smoking/vaping on school property may be given a fine of $305 by the London Middlesex Health Unit.  For a smoking/vaping cessation programs please speak with our public school health nurse.

STUDENT INSURANCE

For the 2024-25 school year TVDSB is pleased to offer families the option of two student accident insurance providers to choose from if they wish to purchase insurance for their children. 

https://www.studyinsuredstudentaccident.com/ - https://insuremykids.com

HELP!  DON’T GIVE UP - THERE IS HELP!  NEED SOMEONE TO LISTEN?

If you are need of immediate help, visit the nearest Emergency Room or call 911.

Help at the School - Talk to a Teacher, Coach, or Principal

Guidance Counsellor: Chris Taylor (519-287-3310 ext. 67695)
Social worker:  Ieva Naujokaityte (519-287-3310 ext. 67703)
Psychologist:  TBD (519-452-2000)
Public Health Nurse:  Leanne Powell (519-663-5317 ext. 2362)

Help in the Community:  Kids Help phone:  1-800-668-6868 (http://www.kidshelpphone.ca), Reach Out:  1-866-933-2023 or 519-433-2023 (https://cmhamiddlesex.ca/ or https://reachout247.ca/), Visit your family doctor or nurse practitioner.

Mental Health Websites and Apps - https://mindyourmind.ca/, Be Safe app, Mind Shift app, iWorry app, Guided Mind App

WEEKLY BROADCASTS

Weekly Broadcasts will be sent via email every Friday throughout the school year.  We pride ourselves on good communication between school and home so it’s important to read/review emails weekly or refer back to them as needed.  If you have questions regarding anything, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the school.

2024-2025 YEARBOOKS WILL ON SALE STARTING IN 2025.  STAY TUNED FOR MORE INFORMATION.

GO GAELS!