Welcome to the 2008-2009 school year! It is great to welcome all returning families and those joining us for the first time.

At Victor Lauriston, we strive to:

be family oriented

provide a safe, welcoming environment

achieve academic excellence

First, we are a family oriented school where staff and students meet in Family Groups monthly. Here we celebrate all student accomplishments and learn more about good character development. These assemblies are held the first Tuesday of the month at 2:15 pm. Parents are welcome to attend.

Then, providing a safe place for all students is really important. At Victor Lauriston, EVERY INCIDENT COUNTS, meaning that every incident reported is investigated. We also work to nurture each student’s self worth, and instill a feeling of pride and respect for each other by following the TRIBES agreements:

● Attentive Listening

● Appreciation/No Put-downs

● Right to Pass

● Mutual Respect

Next, striving for academic excellence is key. Our goal is to help each child reach his potential in all areas. Achieving at a high level on a daily basis and on the Grade 3 and 6 provincial testing (EQAO) is important. Everyday the dedicated staff of principal, vice principal, teachers, secretary, educational assistants, child and youth worker, and custodians, all work to ensure that our students have the best education possible.

In order to achieve our goals, we need the help of our school community. Parents can help by using the TRIBES agreements at home, supervising homework at night, reading with your child, and attending all school functions: Meet the Staff BBQ, School Council Meetings, Student-led Conferences, Education Week Activities, Track and Field/Playday, Literacy Night, etc. Please show your interest in your child’s education and support the hard-working staff.

This year, we are pleased to report that every classroom, with the exception of our K classes, has a SMARTboard. Come in on Thursday, September 11th, at the Meet the Staff BBQ to see this technology in action.

Finally, we believe that working together as a team - staff, parents, and students, is the key to success. Remember that the first School Council Meeting will be September 22nd at 6:30 pm. Feel free to contact the school if there is a concern or question, and plan to be involved in your child’s 2008-2009 school year.

Go LIONS Go!

L. Welch, Principal