Dear Parents and Guardians and Students

Please note, at this time, only essential visitors will be allowed to enter the school and may do so only through pre-arranged appointments. Parents/Guardians will not be allowed to enter the school except in case of emergency. Parents/Guardians, if there is an urgent need to see and/or communicate with your child in person during the school day, please call the school upon arrival, and your child will be brought outside to you.  Parents/Guardians may only enter the school if masked, have completed the HWCDSB self-assessment, and must proceed directly to the main office to sign-in and wait for further instruction.

Communication between parents and teaching staff and/or administration will be through phone calls and/or email, and as noted any visitors to the school will be required to access the HWCDSB website and perform a self-assessment and to wear a medical mask while on school premises.

Sincerely

Administration

Dear Parents, Guardians, and Grade 12 and 12+ Students:

This message is for all grade 12 and 12 plus students that will NOT be returning to St. Mary in September, 2020.

Shortly after June 26th, you will be unable to access your Office 365 account. This includes your emails, files, and any other digital content that is stored in mySite. Therefore, it is very important that you transfer this content to another storage system if there is any information you want to keep.

If you have installed the free suite of Office 2016 on your home computer or laptop, you will be refused access shortly after June 26th and should move to purchasing your own subscription or use other cloud storage drives.

Finally, you will not have access to your W Drive.  

If you have any questions, please email Mrs. Giovannangeli 

giovannangelic@hwcdsb.ca

Thank you.

Administration

Dear Parents, Guardians, and Students

Please find attached the “COVID-19 Protocol – Student/Parent/Guardian Access to Retrieve Personal Belongings in Schools and to Return School Property.”

Please read and review the document carefully, with particular attention to the purpose of access, provisions of access, and the process of access, that is the scheduled / designated time blocks for June 15 and June 16.

The document will be posted on the St. Mary C.S.S. website.

Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

Be safe and take care.

Sincerely
Administration.

Dear Parents, Guardians, and Students

I hope that you are all safe and well.

Please be advised that all Grade 12 students who are graduating and/or moving onto post-secondary destinations now have access to their mid-term marks on the MyPath application/website.

Sincerely

Administration

Dear Parents and Guardians

All co-op placements (including OYAP) and dual credit classes are cancelled from March 14, 2020 to April 5, 2020.

These cancellations coincide with the Minister of Education's order to close all publicly funded schools in Ontario for two weeks following March break. The HWCDSB students are not to attend any co-op placements nor any dual credit classes at Mohawk College during the time indicated.

Thank you for your cooperation and support.

Sincerely
Administration

Dear Parents and Guardians

Based on advice from Dr. David Williams, Ontario's Chief Medical Officer of Health, and the experts at the COVID-19 Command Table, the Minister of Education has issued a Ministerial Order to close all publicly funded schools in Ontario for two weeks following March break, in response to the emergence in Ontario of COVID-19. This order was approved by the Lieutenant Governor in Council.

This means that Ontario schools have been ordered to remain closed from March 14 through to April 5, 2020. Schools, at this time, are scheduled to re-open on April 6, 2020.

Please monitor closely over the next three weeks the Board’s webpage, along with the following webpages: St. Mary CSS, Hamilton Public Health Services, Ontario Ministry of Education, Ontario Ministry of Health, and the Public Health Agency of Canada.

www.hwcdsb.ca
www.mary.hwcdsb.ca
https://www.hamilton.ca/public-health
https://www.ontario.ca/page/ministry-educa ...
https://www.ontario.ca/page/health-care-on ...
https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health.htm ...


Sincerely
Administration

Dear Parents, Guardians, and Grade 12 Students

This message is for all potential grade 12 graduates. Payment for your grad fees are now available on Cash Online.

Please make sure you also have your full height in feet and inches as this must be completed when you pay for your fees.

If you have any questions, please speak to Mrs. Giovannangeli in the library. Thank you.

Sincerely

Administration

Dear Parents, Guardians, and Students:

Reminder to students who have not submitted semester 1 textbooks to please ensure their semester 1 course textbooks are submitted now to the Attendance Office.
Students must clear all outstanding accounts with the Attendance Office. This includes the return of teachers’ materials, textbooks, library books, school equipment, including athletic uniforms. Returned items must be in good order and any lost or damaged items will be replaced by the student or the replacement cost will be paid to the school. If there are difficulties, please see a vice-principal to make arrangements.

Sincerely
Administration

Dear Parents, Guardians, and Students

Re.:  Exam and End of Semester 1 Information

Please ensure that your child attends their examinations on time, in full uniform, and be mindful of inclement weather and/or any other extenuating circumstances. In regards to attending on time, it is advisable that students arrive early for their examination, remember to bring their textbook(s), and proceed to their examination location within 5 minutes of the start of their examination. In regards to uniforms, students must be in full school uniform. In regards to inclement weather, when schools are closed or buses cancelled, due to extreme weather conditions, details will be announced on Hamilton and area TV and radio stations and the Board Website; as well, if for example a Thursday examination is cancelled due to inclement weather and a school closure, the examination will be moved to Friday, and then Friday examinations to Monday, and so on. Please make arrangements for your child to arrive at school on time.

As well, reminder to students: Wednesday, January 29th is a P.A. Day for the entire day, and January 30th is exam viewing in the morning, from 8:30 to 11:50 am, and starting at 12 noon is a P.A. Day, no school for students during P.A. Days. During the morning of January 30th students will have the opportunity to view their final exams, big buses will take home students starting with Wave 1 at 12:10 pm and specialized transportation starting at 11:45 am. On Friday, January 31st we start our first full day of Semester 2. Thank you for your cooperation and we wish all students good luck on their final examinations. For more information, please refer to stma.hwcdsb.ca.

Sincerely

Administration

Dear Parents and Guardians
RE: 2019-2020 Vaccine Records Screening and Suspension Dates
Please be advised that Hamilton Public Health Services will be screening vaccine records for all students born between 2003 and 2015 as per the requirements outlined in the Immunization of School Pupils Act (ISPA). Parents/guardians will receive a letter from public health that provides them with the following information:
• Immunization of School Pupils Act (1990)
• Vaccines that have not been reported to public health
• How to access vaccines if needed
• How to report vaccines to public health
• How to file a medical or non-medical exemption with public health
Parents/guardians will be given a minimum of 5 weeks to provide an up-to-date vaccine record to public health to prevent their child(ren) from being suspended from school. Please ensure your child(ren) are up-to-date with their vaccines and that you have reported them to public health.

For your convenience, a vaccination clinic will be held at St. Mary CSS, Gym C, on Thursday, February 13, 2020.

Due to the number of schools and students in Hamilton, students will be screened at different points throughout the school year by dividing the schools into waves, St. Mary C.S.S is in Wave 3, with screening letters mailed on January 20, 2020; records due to public health by February 26, 2020; suspension lists faxed to school and suspension date of February 27, 2020, with suspensions up to 20 school days.
Sincerely
Administration

Dear Parents and Guardians
RE: 2019-2020 Vaccine Records Screening and Suspension Dates
Please be advised that Hamilton Public Health Services will be screening vaccine records for all students born between 2003 and 2015 as per the requirements outlined in the Immunization of School Pupils Act (ISPA). Parents/guardians will receive a letter from public health that provides them with the following information:
• Immunization of School Pupils Act (1990)
• Vaccines that have not been reported to public health
• How to access vaccines if needed
• How to report vaccines to public health
• How to file a medical or non-medical exemption with public health
Parents/guardians will be given a minimum of 5 weeks to provide an up-to-date vaccine record to public health to prevent their child(ren) from being suspended from school. Please ensure your child(ren) are up-to-date with their vaccines and that you have reported them to public health.
Due to the number of schools and students in Hamilton, students will be screened at different points throughout the school year by dividing the schools into waves, St. Mary C.S.S is in Wave 3, with screening letters mailed on January 20, 2020; records due to public health by February 26, 2020; suspension lists faxed to school and suspension date of February 27, 2020, with suspensions up to 20 school days.
Sincerely
Administration

Dear Parents, Guardians, and Students

Student Council has sold out all 300 tickets for the Winter Formal.

Please understand that:

1) Tickets will not be sold at the door or at the main office
2) Students may go to the main office and have their names placed on a waiting list should a ticket become available due to refund.
3) Students will require their student ID card and their ticket (printed receipt or digital copy on their cell) for admittance, otherwise they will be denied entry.
4) It has come to our attention that some students might be trying to resell their tickets to other students. We want to give them a cautionary warning that this is not acceptable, anyone who
has a ticket with a name not matching their own will be denied entry.

Thank you very much,

Student Council

December 4, 2019

From the Administration of St. Mary C.S.S.:

In order to ensure that all students attending the Winter Formal on Wednesday, December 4, 2019 enjoy the evening we would like to bring to your attention a few reminders.


Event: Winter Formal
Date: Wednesday, December 4, 2019
Time: 7:00pm to 10:00pm
Location: Marque Gardens - Ancaster


VP Student Discipline Reminders for Events:

-security, police and faculty will be at the door and there will be a simple search of all students when entering
-DO NOT bring any backpacks to the event
-security, police and faculty will be supervising the event
-anyone in possession of any illegal substance, alcohol / drugs or a dangerous item will be refused entry, parent’s called, and the student will receive a school consequence.
-anyone who appears to be impaired or under the influence of alcohol /drugs or an illegal substance will be refused entry, parent’s called, and the student will receive a school consequence
-zero tolerance for alcohol / drugs or any illegal substance
-zero tolerance for any item that may be considered dangerous

We expect all to respect themselves and others and students are expected to act in an appropriate manner that reflects behaviour consistent with Catholic values. Inappropriate public displays of affection and touching are not considered appropriate behaviour. Please dress appropriately and tastefully, see your VP for any concerns prior to the event.

-there will be a coat check and a water station
-we want to ensure that everyone has an enjoyable and safe evening.
-please arrange for your rides home to arrive between 9:30 and 10:00pm.

Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

For more information, please visit stma.hwcdsb.ca.

Dear Parents/Guardians:


Re: Catholic Safe Schools Survey


The Ministry of Education for the Province of Ontario requires each school district in the province to conduct a survey concerning students' feelings of safety and security at school, once every two years.

St. Mary CSS will be using an on-line survey format conducted at the school within the students’ classroom to obtain this information from our students. Although not every student has been selected to participate in the survey, a cross-section of students within all grades have been chosen to participate.

The information which your child provides is anonymous and completely confidential and will help to identify additional measures to keep all of our schools safe and secure for students and staff members.

While participation in this survey is voluntary, we strongly encourage our students to complete the survey because the information they provide is so helpful. The survey will begin within the next few weeks.

However, if you do not wish to have your child participate in the survey, I would ask you to complete the form on the reverse side of the information letter your child will receive, and return it to your child's teacher.

Sincerely,
Administration

Dear Parents and Guardians:

During the first week of school students who are anaphylactic received an anaphylactic protocol package which was to be completed and returned to the school. Thank you to all parents who have updated their child's anaphylactic protocol package. This ensures that the school is aware of your child's condition/triggers and location of their epi-pen.

If you have not returned the anaphylactic protocol information package, please return the completed signed package as soon as possible to ensure your child's medic alert information at the school is current.

If you do not require the anaphylactic protocol to be in place for your child please return the form signed and checked off indicating that you do not wish your child to have the anaphylactic protocol.

Sincerely
Administration

Dear Parents, Guardians and Students

There is a wonderful opportunity for students interested in studying and travelling in Italy during the month of July 2020. As part of this experience, students can earn one or two Ontario secondary school credits in subjects such as English, Civics and Careers, Italian, Photography, Visual Arts and Classical Civilization.

A parent information session will be held in our school on Tuesday, November 12th at 7 p.m.

Additional information is also available on the Board’s St. Charles Continuing Education website under Youth Secondary Programs or on the ITALIANCULTURE.CA website.

Sincerely
Administration

Dear Parents, Guardians, and potential grade 12 graduates:

This message is for all potential grade 12 graduates. Grad photos will take place starting Monday, November 11th and possibly continue the following week. Graduates must make an appointment time by accessing the website at "stmarycss.school". Pictures will be taken in the conference room across from the attendance office. Also, a sitting fee of $15 cash is paid to the photographer at the time of your appointment. Ladies should wear a white blouse or white school shirt. Gentlemen should wear a white shirt and tie. If you have any questions, please speak to Mrs. Giovannangeli in the library. Thank you.

October 27, 2019

From the Administration of St. Mary C.S.S.:

In order to ensure that all St. Mary CSS students attending the School Dance on Wednesday, October 30, 2019 enjoy the evening we would like to bring to your attention a few reminders.


Event: School Dance for St. Mary CSS Students
Date: Wednesday, October 30, 2019
Time: 6:30pm to 9:00pm
Location: Cafe


VP Student Discipline Reminders for Events:

-security and faculty will be at the door and there will be a simple search of all students when entering
-students are to enter the school from the front doors - DO NOT bring any backpacks
-security and faculty will be supervising the event
-anyone in possession of any illegal substance, alcohol / drugs or a dangerous item will be refused entry, parent’s called, and the student will receive a school consequence.
-anyone who appears to be impaired or under the influence of alcohol /drugs or an illegal substance will be refused entry, parent’s called, and the student will receive a school consequence
-zero tolerance for alcohol / drugs or any illegal substance
-zero tolerance for any item that may be considered dangerous

We expect all to respect themselves and others and students are expected to act in an appropriate manner that reflects behaviour consistent with Catholic values. Inappropriate public displays of affection and touching are not considered appropriate behaviour. Please dress appropriately and tastefully, masks are not permitted, and students having inappropriate costumes will not be allowed to enter – see your VP for any concerns prior to the event.

-students will NOT be allowed to go to their lockers before, during, or after the Dance
-there will be a coat check and a water station
-we want to ensure that everyone has an enjoyable and safe evening.
-please arrange for your rides home to arrive between 8:30 and 9:00pm.

Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

For more information, please visit stma.hwcdsb.ca.

Exam and End of Semester 2 Information
Please ensure that your child attends their examinations on time, in full uniform, and be mindful of inclement weather and/or any other extenuating circumstances. In regards to attending on time, it is advisable that students arrive early for their examination, remember to bring their textbook(s), and proceed to their examination location within 5 minutes of the start of their examination. In regards to uniforms, students must be in full school uniform. In regards to inclement weather, when schools are closed or buses cancelled, due to extreme weather conditions, details will be announced on Hamilton and area TV and radio stations and the Board Website; as well, if for example a Thursday examination is cancelled due to inclement weather and a school closure, the examination will be moved to Friday, and then Friday examinations to Monday, and so on. Please make arrangements for your child to arrive at school on time.

As well, reminder to students: Thursday, June 27th is a P.A. Day for the entire day, and June 28th is exam viewing in the morning. Thank you for your cooperation and we wish all students good luck on their final examinations. For more information, please refer to stma.hwcdsb.ca for more information and the student exam package.

Dear Parents, Guardians, and Grade 12 Students

The Administration and Staff of St. Mary C.S.S wishes to thank you for your attendance at the Graduation Ceremony activities on Thursday June 6 and to those students who attended the Graduation Dinner / Dance Prom on Friday June 7, 2019.

Please be reminded that all grade 12 students are expected to be in full attendance and in full school uniform for the remainder of the school year, that is, from Monday, June 10 thru Friday, June 28, 2019. Grade 12 students are encouraged to continue to study and work hard in all of their courses, complete any final assessments (assignments, quizzes, tests, culminating activities), write their final examinations, and finish the year with dedication towards their academics and studies.

Sincerely
Administration

June 4, 2019

From the Administration of St. Mary C.S.S.:

In order to ensure that all students attending the Grad Dinner/Dance Prom on Friday, June 7, 2019 enjoy the evening we would like to bring to your attention a few reminders.


Event: Grad Dinner / Dance Prom
Date: Friday, June 7, 2019
Time: 6:00pm to 11:00pm
Location: Liuna Station


Student Discipline Reminders for Events:

-security, police, and faculty will be at the door and there will be a simple search of all students when entering
-security, police, and faculty will be supervising the event
-anyone in possession of any illegal substance, alcohol / drugs or a dangerous item will be refused entry, parent’s called, and the student will receive a school consequence
-anyone who appears to be impaired or under the influence of alcohol /drugs or an illegal substance will be refused entry, parent’s called, and the student will receive a school consequence
-zero tolerance for alcohol / drugs or any illegal substance
-St. Mary C.S.S Students are responsible for their guest and may receive a school consequence based on any misbehaviour of their guest

We expect all to respect themselves and others and students are expected to act in an appropriate manner that reflects behaviour consistent with Catholic values. Inappropriate public displays of affection and touching are not considered appropriate behaviour. Please dress appropriately and tastefully, see your VP for any concerns prior to the event.

-no entry / exit privileges
-there will be a coat check and a water station
-we want to ensure that everyone has an enjoyable and safe evening.
-please arrange for your rides home to arrive between 10:30 and 11:00pm.

Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

For more information, please visit stma.hwcdsb.ca.

The Smoke-Free Ontario Act (SFOA) strictly prohibits smoking of cannabis, tobacco and vaping (use of electronic cigarettes) in or on school property and in public areas within 20 metres of the perimeter of the school grounds. The act applies to all students, staff and visitors to the school.

Anyone caught smoking or vaping in school or on school property may be ticketed or fined. Fines start at $305. Students may be subject to additional disciplinary actions.

Dear Parents and Guardians

We would like to remind you that the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT) is being written on the morning of Wednesday, March 27th beginning at 8:30 am sharp. All grade 10 students and any students unsuccessful in a 1st attempt must write the OSSLT.

Buses will run at the regular times on Wednesday, March 27th. There will be a modified timetable that day for grade 9 – 12 students. Classes will commence at 12:30 pm (period 1) and conclude at 2:38 pm (period 4).

Timetables for March 27th will be posted throughout the school as well as on the school website.

We are still collecting outstanding registrations for the 2019-2020 school year. Students planning to return for the 2019-2020 school year are asked to bring their registration documentation to student services as soon as possible.

Sincerely
St. Mary C.S.S
Administration

Successful completion of the ministry mandated literacy test component for graduation is the grade 10 OSSLT test.
This year on March 27th the literacy test will be written by our first time writing grade 10 students, and those students who were not successful writing the test for the first time when they were in grade 10.
Our students have been preparing for the test through a number of activities such as the Mock Literacy Test, classroom instruction, and focused instruction on sample test questions.
Our school web site has a number of links that you and your child can access from home to aid them in preparing for the test. Please access the school web site for these aids.

Dear Parents and Guardians

This is a message for all students in regards to option sheet collection and pink shirt day. Due to the cancellation of transportation on February 27th Option Sheet Collection will now take place on Thursday February 28th during period 1. Students must submit a complete registration package which includes (1) options printed from myPATH, (2) receipt of $40 activity fee, (3) student registration form. As well, Thursday, February 28th will now be Pink or Rainbow Shirt Day, as we embrace diversity, put an end to bullying, celebrate that Each Belongs, as we all stand brave together. For more information, please visit stma.hwcdsb.ca. Thank you.

Sincerely
Administration

Dear Parents and Guardians

Your son / daughter must complete the mandatory Christian Service Volunteer Hours to be eligible to merit their Ontario Secondary School diploma and to participate in the St. Mary graduation ceremony.

Currently, your son / daughter has NOT complied with this Ministry of Education Requirement.

If your child needs information or assistance, please have them visit student services, otherwise, please submit the required form.

You may access this form by visiting the St. Mary website.

Go to "Learn," then "Student Services" and download the Christian Service Activity Record Sheet.

Sincerely
Christian Service Animator

Dear Parents, Guardians, and potential grade 12 graduates:

This message is for all potential grade 12 graduates. Payment for your grad fees are now available on Cash Online.
Please make sure you also have your height in feet and inches as this must be completed when you pay for your fees.
If you have any questions, please speak to Mrs. Giovannangeli in the library. For more information, please visit stma.hwcdsb.ca.

Sincerely
Grad Committee

Attention all students
This is a reminder that you need to go onto your MyPath account and select your courses for the 2019-2020 school year. As well, please pay your activity fee on school cash online. Option sheet collection is Wednesday, February 27th 2019, You must submit a complete package, in order for it to be collected. To ensure your course selection for the next school year, it essential that you submit your package on time.

Dear Parents and Guardians

Due to the inclement weather day, Thursday, January 31 is now a P.A Day and there is no school for secondary students on this day. As well, Friday, February 1st will include three sessions, first, in the morning from 8:30 am to 11:15 am Semester 2 classes will start; second, a common lunch period from 11:15 am to 12 noon; and third, Semester 1 Exam Viewing from 12 noon to 2:38 pm. All buses, both specialized and big, will run as normal. For more information, please visit stma.hwcdsb.ca.

Sincerely
St. Mary C.S.S
Administration

St. Mary C.S.S is a scent and allergy sensitive school.

Dear Parents and Guardians:

St. Mary C.S.S is a scent and allergy sensitive school. All staff, students, and visitors are asked to refrain from wearing any product that creates a scent or odor. As well, all staff, students, and visitors are asked to avoid entering the building with food products that create a scent or odor, especially citrus. Thank you for your cooperation in ensuring St. Mary C.S.S. is a scent and allergy sensitive school.

Sincerely
St. Mary Admin.

Dear Parents and Guardians

The Catholic School Council Meeting and Presentation - Raising Resilient Children scheduled for this evening, Monday, January 28, 2019 has been postponed due to the arrival of inclement weather.  The Meeting and Presentation is rescheduled to Monday, February 25, 2019 at 7 pm.  For more information please visit stma.hwcdsb.ca, thank you.

Sincerely
St. Mary Administration

Exam and End of Semester 1 Information
Please ensure that your child attends their examinations on time, in full uniform, and be mindful of inclement weather and/or any other extenuating circumstances. In regards to attending on time, it is advisable that students arrive early for their examination, remember to bring their textbook(s), and proceed to their examination location within 5 minutes of the start of their examination. In regards to uniforms, students must be in full school uniform. In regards to inclement weather, when schools are closed or buses cancelled, due to extreme weather conditions, details will be announced on Hamilton and area TV and radio stations and the Board Website; as well, if for example a Thursday examination is cancelled due to inclement weather and a school closure, the examination will be moved to Friday, and then Friday examinations to Monday, and so on. Please make arrangements for your child to arrive at school on time.

As well, reminder to students: Wednesday, January 30th is a P.A. Day for the entire day, and January 31st is exam viewing in the morning and starting at 12 noon is a P.A. Day, no school for students during P.A. Days. During the morning of January 31st students will have the opportunity to view their final exams, big buses will take home students starting with Wave 1 at 12:10pm and specialized transportation starting at 11:45am. On Friday, February 1st we start our first full day of Semester 2. Thank you for your cooperation and we wish all students good luck on their final examinations. For more information, please refer to stma.hwcdsb.ca.

Dear Parents and Guardians

The Christmas Fundraiser Civvies Day is on Friday, December 14th.
The St. Mary C.S.S. tradition of providing support and hope during the advent season continues once again with a full Civvies Day Fundraiser this Friday!
Please make a donation of $2, $5, or $10 by using School Cash Online.

You will spread some Christmas cheer by helping families in our community put a Christmas meal on their table. Money from this fundraiser will go towards purchasing grocery gift cards for families in need. Make a donation today and wear your Christmas attire (green and red) on December 14th!

Sincerely
St. Mary C.S.S

Dear Parents and Guardians

St. Mary C.S.S. presents “Alice in Wonderland” on November 29 and November 30 at 7pm, in the Cafetorium. Please come out and support the play. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children and may be purchased through School Cash Online.

Sincerely
Administration

November 19, 2018

From the Administration of St. Mary C.S.S.:

In order to ensure that all students attending the Winter Formal on Wednesday, November 21, 2018 enjoy the evening we would like to bring to your attention a few reminders.


Event: Winter Formal
Date: Wednesday, November 21, 2018
Time: 6:00pm to 9:00pm
Location: Michelangelo’s


Student Discipline Reminders for Events:

-security, police, and faculty will be at the door and there will be a simple search of all students when entering
-security, police, and faculty will be supervising the event
-anyone in possession of any illegal substance, alcohol / drugs or a dangerous item will be refused entry, parent’s called, and the student will receive a school consequence.
-anyone who appears to be impaired or under the influence of alcohol /drugs or an illegal substance will be refused entry, parent’s called, and the student will receive a school consequence
-zero tolerance for alcohol / drugs or any illegal substance

We expect all to respect themselves and others and students are expected to act in an appropriate manner that reflects behaviour consistent with Catholic values. Inappropriate public displays of affection and touching are not considered appropriate behaviour. Please dress appropriately and tastefully, see your VP for any concerns prior to the event.

-no entry / exit privileges
-there will be a coat check and a water station
-we want to ensure that everyone has an enjoyable and safe evening.
-please arrange for your rides home to arrive between 8:30 and 9:00pm.

Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

For more information, please visit stma.hwcdsb.ca.

Hello St. Mary C.S.S Parents and Guardians

We are very excited to announce that our school play will be in performance during the last week of November! This year, we are presenting the classic "Alice in Wonderland". This play has fun twists and musical numbers and is sure to please audiences of all ages. It is appropriate for both children and adults. Performances are on November 29 and 30 at 7 pm in St. Mary's auditorium. Tickets are $10 each, and $5 for children under the age of 10. Tickets may be purchased through school cash online, and picked up at the box office.

Come out and see this wonderful! Thank you so much for your continued support of the Arts at St. Mary C.S.S.

Dear Parents and Guardians

Please ensure that your child is in full uniform at all times on campus. Please contact and visit: Bombardieri, 448 Barton Street East, Hamilton, Phone: 905-525-6684, Hours: Tuesday thru Friday, 10 am. to 5 pm, and Saturday, 10 am. - 4 pm., if your child needs uniform items, and please refer to their website, www.bombardieri.ca or our school website at stma.hwcdsb.ca for more information.

Some immediate concerns:
-only school uniform items are to be worn within the school
-pants, must be uniform pants purchased through Bombardieri; St. Mary C.S.S. crested pants and/or Kilt must be worn, with appropriate tops and foot wear.

Students NOT in uniform will be addressed at the Attendance Office by their Vice-Principal. At this point, progressive discipline will be administered, with first a warning and call home to the parent/guardian, at this time the student, if possible, has the opportunity to correct the uniform infraction. If the uniform infraction is not immediately correctable, then the student may be held at the Attendance Office for the remainder of the day, the student may be sent home with permission, or the student may be given a period of time to correct the uniform offence. Students who are NOT in uniform on more than one occasion will be awarded progressive discipline that may eventually lead to a suspension.

The St. Mary C.S.S. dress code policy continues to ensure that every student wears a school uniform on campus and is in compliance with the policy before, during and after the instructional day. The common dress code has a positive effect on school identity, unity and pride. The uniform serves to promote our image in the community. It enhances security in the school. It reduces peer pressure and cost in terms of school attire. If one is proud to attend St. Mary C.S.S., one should be proud to wear its uniform.

As aforementioned, students must be in full school uniform at all times on campus, please refer to pages 33 to 36 of the Student Agenda Book. In particular, please be reminded that Spirit wear items are NOT regular UNIFORM items and to be worn on Spirit wear days only; and at no time are coats, hoodies of any make, hats/caps/toques, or any non-uniform item may be worn.

Thank you in advance for cooperation and have a good day.

Attention all grade 10 and 11 St Mary students and parent/guardians. The St Mary Specialist High Skills Major or SHSM Program website has been updated to include pathway charts and recent student reach ahead activities. Please click on the St Mary link under schools on the Board website and navigate through the site for information on how to achieve your Red Seal Specialist in any of the school's six SHSM sectors - Business, Construction, Energy, Health and Wellness, Non profit and Community Development and Transportation. Grade 10 students can enroll in the program during course selections in February and grade 11 students should enroll as soon as possible to be able to participate in the mandatory certifications. Please contact Mrs Castura in Student Services with any questions on how to enroll in the SHSM program. Thank you for your support.

Academic Awards Evening, November 15, 2018 at 7 PM

This is a message from Mr. Brian Daly, Principal of St. Mary:

Congratulations! Your child has made the 2017/2018 Honour Roll. On November 15, 2018 at 7 PM, we will be holding an evening celebration in our gymnasium to acknowledge our honour roll students as well as other academic award winners. We are excited to come together as a Catholic community to celebrate your son or daughter’s academic excellence and academic achievements. Our Director of Education, Mr. Hansen, will be joining us, along with the Chairperson of our Board of Trustees, Mr. Daly. We will also have a keynote speaker, Mrs. Brenda Flaherty, who is a proud alumnus of our school.

Please RSVP immediately through the website bit.ly/stmahonourroll18, with the approximate number of people attending. This is important for our planning purposes. Responses are being managed through this online form. The deadline to RSVP is Thursday, November 8, but we would appreciate it if you would complete it earlier.

Please click or go to the link bit.ly/stmahonourroll18 and fill it in. It will take less than a minute to respond.

Congratulations to the students, and to their parents or guardian for this achievement. We look forward to seeing you on the 15th.

Dear Parents and Guardians

Your son / daughter must complete the mandatory Christian Service Volunteer Hours to be eligible to obtain the Ontario Secondary School Diploma and to participate in the St. Mary graduation ceremony. Currently your son / daughter has NOT complied with this Ministry of Education Diploma requirement. If your child needs information or assistance, please have them visit student services, otherwise, please submit the required form. You may access this form by visiting the St. Mary website, going to "Learn", then to "Student Services" and download the Christian Service Activity Record Sheet.

For more information, please visit stma@hwcdsb.ca

Thank you from the Christian Service Animator

October 28, 2018

From the Administration of St. Mary C.S.S.:

In order to ensure that all students attending the School Dance on Tuesday, October 30, 2018 enjoy the evening we would like to bring to your attention a few reminders.


Event: School Dance
Date: Tuesday, October 30, 2018
Time: 6:00pm to 9:00pm
Location: Cafe


VP Student Discipline Reminders for Events:

-security and faculty will be at the door and there will be a simple search of all students when entering
-students are to enter the school from the front doors
-security and faculty will be supervising the event
-anyone in possession of any illegal substance, alcohol / drugs or a dangerous item will be refused entry, parent’s called, and the student will receive a school consequence.
-anyone who appears to be impaired or under the influence of alcohol /drugs or an illegal substance will be refused entry, parent’s called, and the student will receive a school consequence
-zero tolerance for alcohol / drugs or any illegal substance

We expect all to respect themselves and others and students are expected to act in an appropriate manner that reflects behaviour consistent with Catholic values. Inappropriate public displays of affection and touching are not considered appropriate behaviour. Please dress appropriately and tastefully, masks are not permitted, and students having inappropriate costumes will not be allowed to enter – see your VP for any concerns prior to the event.

-students will not be allowed to go to their lockers before, during, or after the Dance
-there will be a coat check and a water station
-we want to ensure that everyone has an enjoyable and safe evening.
-please arrange for your rides home to arrive between 8:30 and 9:00pm.

Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

For more information, please visit stma.hwcdsb.ca.

This is Brian Daly Principal of St. Mary Catholic Secondary School with a message for our school community. A reminder that tomorrow is Parent-Teacher Interview day at St. Mary Catholic Secondary School. All parents and guardians are invited and encouraged to attend. Interviews run from 1-3 pm and 6-8 pm in the evening. Students were given a sheet in order to be able to book their interviews with teachers, but if any students neglected to book an appointment, parents and guardians are invited to come to St. Mary during those times and report to the Main Office and we will do our very best to accommodate, if possible. Thank you and have a great evening.

This message is for all potential grade 12 graduates. Grad photos will take place starting Tuesday, November 13th and continue until possibly November 22nd. Graduates must make an appointment time and this year they can only sign-up online. Please go to stmarycss.school in order to sign up. Pictures will be taken in the conference room across from the attendance office. Also, a sitting fee of $15 cash is paid to the photographer at the time of your appointment. Ladies should wear a white blouse or white school shirt. Gentlemen should wear a white shirt and a tie is recommended. If you have any questions, please speak to Mrs. Giovannangeli in the library. Thank you.

Dear Parents and Guardians

Thank you to our St. Mary's students and families for participating in our Pilgrimage-Walk with Christ.

Although many have already submitted their pledge sheets and donations, we do have some pledge sheets and donations outstanding.

Therefore, the deadline has been extended to Tues., Oct. 23.

Thank you again for your generous support.

Sincerely
Mr. Hall

Dear Parents and Guardians

This message is to all those students going on the Pilgrimage this Sunday, October 14, 2018. We will be leaving from the back parking lot at 10am, so please arrive promptly, and we will be returning to the back parking lot at approximately 3:30pm. For more information, please visit stma.hwcdsb.ca.

Sincerely
Administration

This message for our school community contains information regarding the legalization of cannabis. On October 17, 2018, cannabis will be legal in Ontario. To buy, have or use cannabis you must be 19 or older. Cannabis remains illegal for anyone under 19 years of age. The Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board does not permit smoking or the use of cannabis at school or board sanctioned activities or events. All students are reminded of the Student Code of Conduct where expectations of behavior are outlined, including consequences for being under the influence of alcohol or drugs. For more information and resources, please visit the board website or speak to your school administrator.

The following resources provide facts about cannabis, risk factors associated with use, and ways to engage youth in the conversation about cannabis.

Resources for Parents:
-https://smh-assist.ca/wp-content/uploads/P ...
-https://www.drugfreekidscanada.org/wp-cont ...

Dear Parents and Guardians

Students are to be in full uniform on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday of each week. Wednesdays are Spirit Wear days. Team jerseys, team jackets, team/club t-shirts or tops can be worn with uniform pants / shorts / kilts on those days. There are NO game-day exemptions for uniforms. The Weekly Wednesday Spirit wear days replace these days. For more information, please visit stma.hwcdsb.ca. Thank you.

Sincerely
St. Mary C.S.S. Administration

Gr. 9 Retreats for student who are taking Religion in semester 1 will be on Sept. 12 and Sept. 18.

Both Mr. Bates and Mr. Costigan's Gr. 9 Religion classes will attend the Sept. 12 Retreat.

Ms. Baldin and Mrs. Gallagher's Religion classes will attend the Sept. 18 Retreat at Camp Marydale.

Letters are being sent home today for parents and guardians. Let us know if there are any dietary restrictions.

Please contact Chaplain, Don Hall @ 905-528-0214 ext. # 3420 if your have any questions or concerns.

Thanks & God bless,

Dear Parents and Guardians:

St. Mary C.S.S is a scent and allergy sensitive school. All staff, students, and visitors are asked to refrain from wearing any product that creates a scent or odor. As well, all staff, students, and visitors are asked to avoid entering the building with food products that create a scent or odor. Thank you for your cooperation in ensuring St. Mary C.S.S. is a scent and allergy sensitive school.

Sincerely
St. Mary Admin.