V.I.S. Newsletter

April 26, 2003

From: Marie Lardino

Welcome new students and parents to V.I.S.

As our 2002 - 2003 academic year reaches an end, there will be news and updates on our upcoming newsletters that are relevant to new parents. Please remember that you are welcome to attend social events and our upcoming stage performance. Listings of special events are posted on our website at www.voiceintermediate.com. You may also want to take the time to review recent newsletters (posted on our website).

Returning and New Students

In the coming weeks, a package of information regarding the 2003-2004 academic year will be sent home to all returning and new students and their parents. Please review this package carefully as it contains several forms that need your signature, and others that pertain to curriculum, dress codes, uniform orders and calendars. Please do not hesitate to call the school should you have questions regarding our next academic year.

Our Faculty (2003-2004)

We Say Good Bye To:

Andrew Drake, Nicole Bemister-Lardino, and Liana Launay.

Andrew Drake, our Science and Math teacher will be attending M.I.T in Boston next year to complete his Doctoral Degree. We wish him the best of luck and congratulate him on his acceptance to such a world acclaimed post secondary institution for studies in Science and Technology.

Nicole Bemister-Lardino, our Dance, Spanish and Special Education (gr.7) support teacher will be departing to Taiwan this June to teach in Taipei for a year, and later she will undergo her Masters Degree in Curriculum in southern Australia. Nicole plans to return to V.I.S. in two years as a full time teacher. It won't be the same without her.

Liana Launay our Phys Ed, Coach, French and Special Ed support teacher (gr. 8), has been accepted to OISE Faculty of Education at the Institute of Child Study, and will undergo her M. Ed in Early Childhood Education next year. We wish Liana the best of luck. We will miss the efforts, enthusiasm and talents that Andrew, Nicole and Liana have brought to V.I.S. We are sad to see you go!

New Faculty

Next year we welcome Sharron Swenson, Paul Taylor, Simmy Zaret and Jeff Gillespie.

Sharron Swenson joins us next year to assist grade 8 students requiring Special Education support. Sharron holds a B.A, B.Ed, M.A, and her Specialist Qualifications in ESL. She has acquired 29 years experience with the Toronto District School Board teaching ESL, Special Education and all subjects in Primary, Junior and Intermediate levels. Her expertise, coupled with a caring and patient nature will be a great asset to V.I.S next year.

Paul Taylor is currently completing his Bachelor of Education at York University. This year, he was able to prove himself as an exceptional teacher while completing his student teacher placement at our school. Paul will be teaching Mathematics, Social Studies and Phys Ed. next year to grades 7 and 8. This year, as his Adjunct Professor,I had the opportunity of mentoring Paul, but I am proud and fond of him for several reasons. I remember him fondly as the most attentive, conscientious student in my grade 5 class in 1991 at Lord Lansdowne Public School. I was lucky to have him in my class then, and we are most fortunate to have him now.

Simmy Zaret joins V.I.S as our Science teacher next year. Simmy currently teaches JK and SK at Kew Beach P.S. half time, but has taught all grade levels (including Intermediate) throughout her teaching career. Simmy holds a B.A and B.Ed, and has taught for the TDSB since 1986. In addition, she has extensive experience teaching Sex Education and she has taught and developed Science curriculum for the Scientists in Schools program. She promises an innovative, hands on approach to Science and I am certain she will deliver! Welcome Simmy!

Our students were very excited to hear that Jeff Gillespie had accepted the position of "coach" at our school . In partnership with Cathie Webb, Jeff is currently the Artistic Director of Theatricks Co. 4 Kids. He holds an Honours B.A in Theatre from the University of Guelph. Jeff will lead programs in Drama for the TDSB next year, and joins V.I.S on a part time basis. Along with being the greatest sports enthusiast I have ever met, he has experience coaching kids of all ages. Welcome Jeff!

Returning Teachers

Cathie Webb will remain at V.I.S as a full time teacher and will continue provide an exciting program in Theatre, Visual Arts, English and History to students in grades 7 and 8. As you know, Cathie is well known and respected for her innovative teaching approaches, and we feel very fortunate that she is returning. Her contributions to our academic and arts programs will continue to be valued by all!

Cathy Wilson returns to teach Issues Development. This year, her program has been instrumental in provoking insightful debates, critical thinking and analysis. Everyone looks forward to her class each week and we look forward to her return next year.

Virginia Evoy will continue to conduct Music class. As you know, Virginia joined us during third term this year, and already our students are "singing"? I say it takes great talent and determination to accomplish this task. Virginia is determined to provide a music program that will have each of our students playing Recorder and "singing like angels" next year. I know she will accomplish this goal. Welcome back Virginia!

I will teach Spanish next year to grades 7 and 8 and will continue with my duties as lead teacher, Adjunct Professor (York U.) and Principal. I am currently in the process of conducting interviews for French and Dance teachers. I will send news as soon as I have found teachers in French and Dance who are best suited to V.I.S.

Other News

A message from the Social Committee - - - - - Spring has Sprung so everyone into the Pool!

Come to a social evening with parents and teachers at Mr. Slate's, 952 Kingston Road, on Wednesday April 30 at 7:30 pm. We'll play some pool and catch up on how we all survived this winter! See you at Mr. Slate's on the 30th!

Sexuality Classes from grades 7 and 8 - A note from Simmy Zaret

Young people often think they "know it all" when it comes to "sexuality", yet can be bombarded and confused by myths and misconceptions. Providing the facts within the context of a safe, non-judging, respectful and fun environment can play a critical role in promoting healthy responsible adults of tomorrow. On April 29, May 1st and May 2nd, I will be in the school to teach Human Growth and Development / Puberty to the grade 7 and 8 students at Voice. This program will be in keeping with the Ontario Health Curriculum and will take place during the afternoons from 2:00 to 3:30. The resources and materials provided will offer comprehensive and relevant teachings of the physical, social and psychological changes taking place in our students during these complex and sensitive early teen years. Along with teaching for the Toronto District School Board, I have taught and counselled teenagers in the area of sexual health for over 21 years. I am proud to have had the good fortune to be trained by Canada's foremost Sex Educator, Sue Johanson and was thrilled to work with her for years at The Don Mills Sexual Health Clinic. I certainly look forward to teaching this Sexuality Unit at Voice. If you have any questions, feel free to be in touch with me through the school office.

Sincerely, Simmy Zaret

Upcoming Trip to Tawingo Educational Centre - Update

The Staff at Tawingo have assured us that there are no mosquitoes yet in Muskoka. However, we caution that all students should still pack insect repellent for the trip. Teachers will ensure at all times that students are protected with repellent, and water activities (such as pond studies) will not take place should mosquitoes be a threat to our kids. Phone numbers for Tawingo went home with your package two weeks ago. Keep these numbers handy should you wish to call Tawingo directly (before and during the trip) if you have concerns about West Nile Virus.

Ms. Webb has decided to join Liana Launay, Andrew Drake and Nicole Bemister - Lardino on the trip. I will remain at the school for its duration, and will be free to meet with you during this time should you want to discuss your child's progress or any other issues. Please e-mail me at [email protected] if you would like to set up an interview.

Grade 8 Graduation

Grade 8 graduation originally planned for June 12 has been moved to June 11. We have been able the secure the rental of the Parlour at Bellefair United Church for the graduation ceremony. The dance will follow in the big room with the stage. We thank Karen McGuire and Murray Innes for volunteering to assist with graduation. I will set up a meeting to begin planning soon. Any other parents wishing to volunteer, please come forward! We need lots of help.

On June 12 we are planning a whole school BBQ at Centre Island. All teachers, students and parents are welcome to attend.

News from Ms. Evoy - Music

I am delighted to be working at Voice. I am particularly looking forward to working with children who potentially are at a very high skill level musically. They are capable of wonderful things both as singers and instrumentalists. And, with Ms. Lardino's assistance, I hope to begin adding some Recorder instruction and Orff instruments to our music program next year.

For the time being, the students will be learning simple songs and song games, vocal technique and music literacy. We are looking forward to performing for the first time at the graduation assembly.

Please feel free to contact me at any time to discuss the music program, and/or your child's progress at 416 264-7258.

Sincerely, Virginia Evoy

Thank you to......

Jeff Vernon who took control of our garden last weekend and made it so much better by removing that old pond, by planting trees and by pruning shrubs. Your efforts show! It looks so much better!

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