January Spirit Day: Who Are You?

Our social and cultural identity is framed by many intersecting elements.

Who are you? 

On Thursday, January 31st, JRPS students can show their spirit by wearing something that is representative of their unique identity, heritage, culture etc, and reflects who they are proud to be!

Moebius Syndrome Awareness Day Thursday, Jan 24

Look beyond face value.

This Thursday is the Annual Moebius Syndrome Awareness Day.  It is held every 24th of January as it is the birth date of Professor Paul Julius Moebius, who first diagnosed the disorder in 1888.  

Moebius Syndrome is an extremely rare disorder which effects the muscles in the face and eyes of the person.  Most people with Moebius syndrome have normal intelligence, and others should take care not to confuse their lack of facial expression with unfriendliness. People with Moebius smile from the inside with their hearts.

Please wear purple on Thursday, January 24 to show your support.

The campaign asks: How do you express yourself? There are so many unique ways to express your true self to others, and individuals with Moebius Syndrome find ways beyond the face to do so.

If you’d like to learn more about Moebius Syndrome, please see Ms. Manni or visit: moebiussyndrome.org

YRDSB Field Closures

We have had a couple of inquiries about the decision to close the playing fields on school property at recess. Each fall and spring, our Plant and Facilities Department indicates that field closures are in effect, as high foot traffic on the wet or partially frozen yet exposed grass damages the field and prevents the grass from recovering in the spring. The cost to repair a damaged field falls to the school responsibility. 

While fields have at times remained closed for an entire winter season, typically, once there is snow packed on the ground, we are almost always able to open the fields throughout the winter.  This year has been unusually temperate with very little snow which has delayed opening the field for winter play.

The decision to open or close the field is made as a team which includes the caretakers and Supervisor of Plant Facilities for our area. We have been working closely with our team to monitor the condition of the field and look forward to having the opportunity to open it as soon as possible, as it is advantageous to staff and students to have the additional room to run and play at recess. 

Please see the Elementary School Field Opening/Closure policy linked below for more information:

Elementary Field Closure Policy