Thursday 24 August 2017

Welcome!

Welcome all JK and SK to a new school year at The Maples Academy!
I am Mrs Orphanides, the lead teacher in Kindergarten, and I am thoroughly looking forward to working with you and your children for an action packed and exciting year of learning!


About your Teacher
I am from the United Kingdom and recently moved to Canada. I have transferred from our partner school, St Jude’s Academy, where taught in Grade 2. The ethos of my classroom ensures that children, parents/guardians and colleagues all feel safe and secure within a welcoming environment where they are valued. Being an enthusiastic practitioner and providing fun experiences in all aspects of learning encourages children to be confident. I embolden children to take risks and explore a range of learning environments to express their ideas. It is important to support children in becoming passionate about their education and challenge their own achievements and abilities to further heighten their goals. I have high standards and expectations of all children as I truly believe that every child can succeed.
As the lead teacher in Kindergarten, I will be working in collaboration with the JK teacher to provide an enriching curriculum for your child. On a daily basis we will develop knowledge and skills in Mathematics, Phonics and Unit of Inquiry through the IB programme. The instruction of Physical Education will be taught by Ms. Cranfield and French will be taught by Mme. Villeneuve.

Upcoming Dates and Events
September 4 – Labour Day
September 5 – First day of school.
September 27 – Casual Day
September 28 – Spirit Day and Terry Fox Run

Important Information for the First Week of School
Parent/Student Handbook – Please find a copy of the ‘Parent/Student Handbook’ attached within this email. The final page of this document must be printed, signed and returned to school as soon as possible.
Code of Conduct – Please find a copy of the ‘Code of Conduct’ attached within this email. The final page of this document must be printed, signed and returned to school as soon as possible.
School Calendar – Please find a copy of the ‘School Calendar’ attached within this email.
Uniform – Please ensure your child is wearing the correct uniform according to the school’s ‘Uniform Policy’. This can be found on page 12 of the Parent/Student Handbook. I kindly request that you also provide your child with a spare set of clothes that can remain in school for unexpected circumstances.
Blog - A blog will be updated on a daily basis with a range of information including: important dates and reminders, information about our school day, pictures and videos of our classroom in action, and anything else that could be important for parents and guardians. I encourage you to check this blog daily to keep up to date with the happenings of our classroom and school. Alternatively, you can follow the blog by email by signing up on right hand side of the blog itself: https://eorphanidesthemaples.blogspot.ca/

Enjoy your last days of summer and I thoroughly look forward to meeting you on September 5th!

Many thanks and kind regards,
Mrs. Ermione Orphanides