L'Ecole Kiti K'Shan PAC

New PAC and CPF blog

2010-06-22T13:50:00.000-07:00

Please change your PAC Blog address to:

http://mountainviewpac.blogspot.com/

All new information will be posted there.

Thanks

June CPF Minutes

2010-06-22T13:49:00.002-07:00

CPF Meeting
Wednesday, June 16th, 2010
Minutes recorded by Nita Back

Call to Order: 7:30 p.m.

Attendance: Lorelle Kluss, Ana Peasgood, Nita Back, Maxine Champion, Ginny Kenmuir, Terri Bowles, David Block, Shannon Murdoch.

Secretary’s Report – Reviewed May’s minutes. Motioned to adopt the minutes. MSC (motion second, carried).

Treasurer’s Report –Terri reviewed the present financial statements. Many changes were made to increase the amount in student exchanges. Motion was made to approve the Budget 2010/2011. MSC. Finalized budget is attached.
-Motioned to change accounts from the Royal Bank to Northern Savings and to add Terri Bowles to existing signing authority. MSC.

Old Business -The French Spring Festival was successful. We made a profit of $267.53.
-Shannon commented that the graduates and their parents really appreciated the luncheon at Flavours restaurant.
-Proposed Homework Club – Maxine will approach the staff and get their input regarding a homework club for next year. This is not to be a tutoring service, but only a specific time for kids to work on homework with a French facilitator there to help.

New Business – Fundraising outline for next year is to include: Open House/French bookfair on Sept 22, 2010, Family Dance/Festival in November, and Carnivale/Sugar Shack in Jan/Feb.
-There will be more information available in September regarding the trip to France for Grade 8-10 students next year. It is estimated that each student will have to pay $3,300 for the 8 day trip.

Adjournment - 8:30pm. Next meeting TBA.

June PAC Minutes

2010-06-22T13:49:00.001-07:00

Kiti K’Shan School
Parent Advisory Committee

Monthly Meeting Minutes June 16, 2010

1. Meeting commenced at 6:30 pm (In attendance: Maxine Champion, Lorelle Kluss, Nita Back, Ginny Kenmuir, Ana Peasgood, Shannon Murdoch and Terri Bowles.)

2. Secretary’s Report:
-Reviewed May’s minutes. Lorelle commented that she did not order the ribbons from the TB Vets, but from a local business, Sivertip Promotions. Motion made to accept the minutes. MSC (motion second, carried).

3. Treasurer’s Report :
-Ginny reported that as of May 30, 2010, there is $954.14 in the Operating account and $ 6,710.72 in the Gaming account.
-Motion made to have Terri replace Ginny as treasurer until next AGM. MSC.
-Motion made to change school name from Kiti K’Shan to Ecole Mountainview Parents Advisory Council on bank accounts and to leave the current signees, but to add on Terri’s name. MSC.

4. Old Business:
-Maxine asked for our suggestions as to what type of playground equipment will be purchased for Mountainview.
-Motion made to contribute $5,000.00 from the Gaming account to help buy new playground equipment. MSC.
-Lorelle purchased the ribbons for Sports Day and everything is ready for that event.
-Trees for Tomorrow Celebration will be on June 23 at 4:00 pm. There has been a media release and the cupcakes are ordered. School trustees have notified us that they can not attend due to a special board meeting the same day.

5. New Business:
-There are four scrapbooking crops planned for next year (Oct, Dec, Feb, April).
-Ana suggested as a fundraising event to raffle off a trip to the Heritage Classic Hockey game in Calgary next year. Prize would include trip for two to Calgary, hotel and hockey tickets. Ana will do the research for this ie. costs and licencing requirements.
-Direct Gaming Grant applications need to be done by June 30 – Nita to do this.

6. Principal’s Report:
-Grade 3-7 students enjoyed the trip to the Kitimat pool. The staff at the pool commented on how well behaved our students acted. The Grade 4/5 class had a field trip to the Ministry of Forest. Again, the staff commented how well behaved the students acted and how impressed they were with the amount of French spoken by the students.
-Other field trips have been happening: K/Gr.1 class took the city bus to the library, Mme Goodwin’s K class went to her house to see the chicks they hatched in their class this spring.
-Last day of school is Friday, June 25 with an assembly at 9:30 am.

7. Meeting adjourned 7:30. Next meeting TBA.

School tour given

2010-06-16T08:26:00.000-07:00

FRENCH immersion parent Bruce Martindale speaks with principal Maxine Champion yesterday during a tour of Mountainview Elementary on the bench.

Terrace Standard - June 10, 2010

FRENCH immersion parents and students received a tour yesterday of their new home, Mountainview Elementary on the bench.

The program is moving from Kiti K'Shan to Mountainview this fall.

Built seven years ago for $3.2 million, Mountainview has never been opened, a circumstance driven by an economic decline and by demographics.

Instead, the building has been used for storage and lately, as the headquarters for the B.C. Winter Games.

Trustees decided to close Kiti K'Shan because it is an aging structure compared to Mountainview. Among other amenities, it has a full-size gym with rubber compound floor.

PAC May Minutes

2010-06-16T08:23:00.001-07:00

Kiti K’Shan School
Parent Advisory Committee

Monthly Meeting Minutes May 19, 2010

1. Meeting commenced at 6:30 pm (In attendance: Maxine Champion, Lorelle Kluss, Erin Ball, Nita Back, Ginny Kenmuir, Ana Peasgood, Shannon Murdoch, Terri Bowles and Simone Snyder.)

2. Secretary’s Report:
-Lorelle to type up minutes from January and February’s meeting.
-Reviewed April’s minutes. Lorelle motioned to accept the minutes, Ana seconded.

3. Treasurer’s Report :
-Ginny reported that as of April 30, 2010, there is $2,556.26 in the Operating account and $ 6,710.72 in the Gaming account.

4. Old Business:
-Mountainview Open House scheduled for June 9, 2010 from 4:30 – 6:30.
-Regarding the playground at Mountainview School, we received a $30,000 grant to buy new equipment. The swings, bike racks, picnic table, one bench and the three newer pieces of playground equipment from Kiti K’Shan will be moved up to Mountainview. The remaining playground equipment will be moved up to Cassie Hall School.

5. New Business:
-We will need to change the school logo for next year. Mr. Geary has come up with a new logo that is working on.
-For the year end awards, small trophies will be given out instead of having names added to the big Kiti K’Shan trophies. We will look into the cost of reusing the big trophies next year, by just changing the school name on them.
-Ana brought forward some concerns parents have been voicing about educational support at the school. She proposed a Homework Club for grades 4 to 7 twice a week. She estimates that it will cost $2,000.00 to pay for a tutor. It was discussed and will be looked into by CPF. Maxine commented that location of the Homework Club may be a problem. There may be grants we can apply for to help with the cost. She stated that it is very important that parents know there is going to be some support next September for the students.

6. Principal’s Report:
-Kiti K’Shan’s last day of school will be June 25th. The PAC room needs to be packed up by that date.
-Events upcoming include: Spring Festival on May 28, Grade4 &5 forestry tour on June 4, Track meet at Skeena school on June 5 for the Track and Field Club, Grade 3-7 field trip to Kitimat Pool on June 11 and fun day for K-2, Sport’s Day is June 18 in the morning.
-Pac will run the canteen for the Sport’s Day. Terri Bowles volunteered to organize the canteen for PAC. PAC needs to supply to Sport’s Day ribbons. Lorelle to order these from the TB Vets. PAC will supply lunch for every student on Sport’s Day.
-Trees for Tomorrow celebration will be held on Wednesday, June 23 after school at Kiti K’Shan. PAC is to supply the cupcakes and contact the media –Ana volunteered to organize this. Maxine will contact the school superintendents and trustees.

7. Meeting adjourned 7:10 Next meeting on June 16th, 2010.

CPF 2010 AGM Minutes

2010-06-16T08:22:00.000-07:00

CPF Meeting
Wednesday, May 19th, 2010
Minutes recorded by Nita Back

Call to Order: 7:15 p.m.

Attendance: Lorelle Kluss, Ana Peasgood, Nita Back, Maxine Champion, Ginny Kenmuir, Terri Bowles, Erin Ball, David Block, Simone Snyder, Shannon Murdoch.

Secretary’s Report –Lorelle to type up minutes from January and February meetings. Reviewed April’s minutes and Lorelle motioned to adopt the minutes, Ana seconded.

Treasurer’s Report –Ginny presented the financial status of the accounts held at the Royal Bank. As of May 3, the Operating account has $ 6,289.77 and the Bingo (gaming) account has $8,271.89.
-The budget was reviewed and changes were made. Lorelle made a motion to table the approval of the budget until next month’s meeting. Nita seconded the motion.
- Treasurer needs to send a voided cheque to the BC CPF headquarters.

Vice-Chairperson Report – Erin presented the vice chairperson’s annual report.

Old Business -The French Spring Festival planning is going well by Ana and Nita. Flo Shepard is organizing the canteen. There have been lots of volunteers. 10 Caledonia students have volunteered and they will be given letters of reference for their help.
-The meeting at Skeena on May 4 for parents and students to see what the French Immersion program looks like in high school went well. There were 10 parents in attendance. A Skeena teacher, Carolyn Faber, is trying to organize a trip to France next June for FI grade 8-10 students.
-There are four FI students graduating this year. They will each receive a pin and free lunch for the grads and parents at Flavours Restaurant. Shannon Murdoch is organizing this event. The expected cost is $250.00. Everyone approved the cost of the lunch.
-The Early Years Fair was successful. There were lots of kindergarten registration forms handed out.
-The Trade Show was also successful, although next year we should look at picking a timeslot where there will be more parents with children attending (ie Saturday morning).
-Currently there are 23 kindergarten students registered for next year.

New Business – There is a Grade 10 student from France who is looking for a host family here in Terrace for the next school year. If anyone is interested in helping him, contact Shannon Murdoch.
-Terrace CPF does not seem to have our own constitution, therefore we will follow the BC CPF constitution.
-Executive elections were held and the results are as follows:
Chair – Lorelle Kluss
Vice-Chair – Ginny Kenmuir
Treasurer – Terri Bowles
Secretary – Nita Back
Directors – Advertising – David Block
Special Events – Ana Peasgood
Exchanges – Simone Snyder
Memberships – Shannon Murdoch
At Large – Erin Ball

Adjournment - 8:30pm. Next meeting June 16th, 2010.

Terrace Standard - School holds carnival

2010-05-31T13:30:00.000-07:00

ALEX Watt mans the fish pond at yesterday's carnival at Kiti K'Shan school in Terrace

Terrace Standard - School holds carnival

School holds carnival
Online Published: May 29, 2010 6:00 AM

A WARM spring day yesterday proved the perfect setting for a spring carnival held at Terrace's French immersion school, Kiti K'shan.

Parent volunteers and teachers combined to stage games of fun and of chance along with food for the kindergarten to Grade 7 school.

The event took place in front of the school.

Live entertainment took the form of the band Late Night on Air.

The carnival is one of the last major events to take place at Kiti K'Shan. This fall the French immersion program moves up on the Bench to occupy the never-used Mountainview Elementary.

Built in 2003 in anticipation of a student population which never materialized, Mountainview has been mothballed since completion.

3rd Annual Spring Family Festival

2010-05-20T09:38:00.001-07:00

The Terrace Chapter of Canadian Parents for French

proudly presents our

3rd Annual
Spring Family Festival
Friday May 28th
3:30pm – 7:00pm

Ecole Kiti K’Shan
4630 Graham Avenue

We invite the community to join us for Carnival Style Games and Family Entertainment. Come help us celebrate the last family event at Kiti K’Shan before we close our doors at the end of the school year.
With Special Musical Guests “Late Night on Air”

$2.00/family for CPF Members, $5.00/family non-members
Current & former Kiti K’Shan Teaching Staff receive complementary admission
Carnival Game Tickets .25 cents each or 5 for $1.00

The Art of Advocacy

2010-05-04T19:40:00.001-07:00

Though a bursary by Autism Community Training (ACT) a workshop on

THE ART OF ADVOCACY, is being presentedat UPLANDS ELEMENTARY (likely Library sponsored by the UPLANDS PAC and the MTG group.

DATE: May 8 (SATURDAY)
TIME: 9:00 am to 4:00 p.m.
COST: FREE
TOPIC: WEBINAR (pre-recorded and projected on screen) Workshop
designed for parents of children who have invisible disabilities and
the example of advocacy skills is applied to the Education System.

Open to all parents and interested persons wanting to learn advocacy skills.

Pre-registration : email rebeccageo@yahoo.com with
Your name:
Phone number:
Lunch: Yes____ No____
(indicate if you wish to have a sandwich lunch for $6.00 or not (Starfish Bistro sandwich and juice, water, tea or coffee) or not.)

Or leave a message at 250-635-9192 or 250-638-6558 with the same info clearly stated.

We know this is short notice however it should be interesting and hope parents will get a lot from it who are able to attend.

(Sorry no child care available this time.)

Sincerely,
Rebecca Georges.

PAC April Minutes

2010-04-27T12:21:00.000-07:00

Kiti K’Shan School
Parent Advisory Committee

Monthly Meeting Minutes April 21, 2010

1. Meeting commenced at 6:30 pm (In attendance: Maxine Champion, Lorelle Kluss, Erin Ball, Nita Back, Ginny Kenmuir, Michelle Beckley, Ana Peasgood, Terri Bowles.)

2. Secretary’s Report:
-Lorelle to type up minutes from January and February’s meeting.

3. Treasurer’s Report :
-Ginny reported that as of March 31, 2010, there is $2,284.02 in the Operating account and $ 6,710.72 in the Gaming account.

4. DPAC Rep. Report:
-Michelle Beckley reported that there is a DPAC meeting tomorrow night.

5. Hot Lunch Coordinator Report:
-Terri Bowles reported that there is a $450.00 profit from the hot lunch program this year.
- Next year will look at combining the milk program and hot lunch program. Roylene Richey is in favour of this.
-Next year look at scheduling the student helpers.

6. Fundraising Coordinator Report:
-The three scrapbooking sessions have profited $879.33. We need to send Tracy Hoffos a thank you card for her scrapbooking donations – Ana to do. Next year, will have a session every two months.
-Next year, ask the teachers about participating in monthly Scholastic book orders with proceeds going to the library.

7. Old Business:
-Mountainview Open House scheduled for next September.
-Discussed splitting up the executives of PAC and CPF next year. Lorelle reviewed the responsibilities of each executive position. There will be a vote on this at the next meeting.
-Ana motioned that we move the swings, bike racks and three newer playground pieces (spring jumper, pods, tunnel) up to Mountainview School. The picnic table, bench and garbage can wait to see if there is an outdoor classroom grant. All other playground equipment at Kiti K’Shan will be moved up to Cassie Hall. The motion was carried.

8. New Business:
-Michelle Beckley gave a brief presentation on a new licensed child care facility, Kids Planet. They will have kindergarten pick up and it has a French component available.
-Regarding the school move, it is only a building move and does not require the PAC to dissolve and form again. We’ll need to change our bank accounts and cheques to our new name.

9. Principal’s Report:
-Kiti K’Shan has a possible school closure date of June 25th for summer break.
-We are waiting on the Ministry to release $30,000 for new playground equipment at Mountainview School.
-There will be a tour available of Mountainview School in late May, early June.
-Currently there are 23 kindergarten registrations for 2010-2011 schoolyear, there are 30 spots available.
-Reviewed anti-bullying day, music festival, academic awards, and other recent school events.
-April 29th at 10:45 in the gym, there will be a music festival performance.

7. Meeting adjourned 7:45. Next meeting on May 19th, 2010.

CPF April Minutes

2010-04-27T12:19:00.000-07:00

CPF Meeting
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Minutes recorded by Nita Back

Call to Order: 7:45 p.m.

Attendance: Lorelle Kluss, Ana Peasgood, Nita Back, Maxine Champion, Ginny Kenmuir, Terri Bowles, Erin Ball, Michelle Beckley.

Secretary’s Report –Lorelle to type up minutes from January and February meetings.

Treasurer’s Report –Ginny presented the financial status of the accounts held at the Royal Bank. As of March 31, the Operating account has $ 7,988.20 and the Bingo (gaming) account has $8,271.89.
-Attached is the report of credits/debits to date.

Vice-Chairperson Report – Deadline for Community Gaming Grant is February 2011.
-Since we didn’t hold the Sugar Shack event this year, that money was given back and relocated.

Old Business – The vote on the executive composition was tabled until next month’s meeting.
-The French Spring Festival planning is underway by Ana and Nita. They presented an outline of the event. There are many volunteers still needed. Lorelle motioned to give the Spring Festival a $2,500.00 budget. The motion was carried.
-There is a meeting at Skeena on May 4 at 7 pm for parents and students to see what the French Immersion program looks like in highschool.
-Trade Show is April 30 to May 2. CPF will be at the Bingo Table on Friday, April 30th from 6:00pm – 8:00pm. Erin and Nita will be at the table. We are still looking for donations for the baskets, possible carnival scarves.

New Business – Terri Bowles volunteered to organize the Grad luncheon for the Grade 12 students.
-The Early Years Fair is coming up on May 8. Volunteers are needed for this event.
-Lorelle is looking into whether the Terrace Chapter of CPF has its own constitution.
-The AGM is next month, May 19th. Michelle will put an ad into the paper listing the details.

Adjournment - 8:30pm. Next meeting May 19th, 2010.

3rd Annual Spring Family Festival

2010-04-19T16:05:00.000-07:00

The Terrace Chapter of Canadian Parents for French

proudly presents our

3rd Annual
Spring Family Festival
Friday May 28th
3:30pm – 7:00pm

Ecole Kiti K’Shan
4630 Graham Avenue

We invite the community to join us for Carnival Style Games and Family Entertainment. Come help us celebrate the last family event at Kiti K’Shan before we close our doors at the end of the school year.
With Special Musical Guests “Late Night on Air”

$2.00/family for CPF Members, $5.00/family non-members
Current & former Kiti K’Shan Teaching Staff receive complementary admission
Carnival Game Tickets .25 cents each or 5 for $1.00

Ecole Kiti K'Shan Closing - School moving to Ecole Mountainview for 2010/2011 school year

2010-03-28T20:36:00.000-07:00

As per the CMSD# 82 Website

At the Public School Board Meeting of Wednesday, March 17th, the Coast Mountains Board of Education passed by-laws closing South Hazelton School, L’Ecole Kiti K’Shan, and reconfiguring Suwilaawks Community School by closing the E.T. Kenney building on that site effective this coming June 30th, 2010.

Starting in September 2010, the children that currently attend South Hazelton Elementary will be attending New Hazelton Elementary or John Field Elementary Schools; the K-3 students who attend classes in the E.T. Kenney building of Suwilaawks Community

School will joining the Grades 4 – 7 students in the Clarence Michiel building on the same site.

During the same meeting, the Board of Education voted to open Mountainview Elementary School to accommodate the students that currently attend L’Ecole Kiti K’Shan.

Like many districts in the province, the Coast Mountains Board of Education continues to deal with increasing cost pressures against our budgets during a time of declining enrolments and economic uncertainty. Over the past few months, the Board has given careful consideration to how we can continue to maintain and balance our standards of facility services to students with our overall educational program effectiveness.

The notices of possible school closure given on South Hazelton Elementary, the notice of possible school reconfiguration on Suwilaawks Community School, and the relocation of the French Immersion School of Kiti K’Shan to Mountainview School were put forward following a thorough review and discussion of the space available in all school buildings in our various communities. Following the receipt of information from District Staff, and public consultation, the Board has determined that it is financially advantageous to relocate students to neighbouring schools or buildings, while being able to maintain levels of programs and services to students. The relocation of students to neighbouring schools will, in fact, create significant cost savings to the school district in the long term.

While these closures and reorganization of facilities will mean significant change within our district, the Board feels that these changes must be made to maintain overall program diversity and opportunity, and will help us to maximize educational services for students.

District Staff are preparing specific implementation plans for these changes. They, along with trustee representatives, will meet with all Partners over the next few days and weeks to ensure that plans effect these changes in a way that will ensure everyone’s best interests and concerns are considered and addressed. District Staff and School Administrators will ensure that all Partners are kept informed regarding the progress of these plans in a timely fashion.

The Board of Education recognizes that school closures and reconfigurations mean significant change for students, parents, and staff. However, making more efficient use of our facilities will help us maintain educational programs and services for students across the district … and the education of students continues to be our primary goal.

Thank you! Scrapbooking & Concours

2010-03-28T20:27:00.000-07:00

Thank you to Tracey from Remember This! Scrapbooking and to all the participants who attended the past three fundraising crops. Not only did we have a great time together we raised over $800.00 for the students of Ecole Kiti K'Shan!

We are done our scrapbooking crops for this year, but we will be back in the Fall with our first crop planned for October 2010 at our new location in Ecole Mountainview.

If you would like to be informed of upcoming Crop events please email Ana at goodpeas@telus.net .

***********************************************************************************

Thank you also to Erin Ball of Canadian Parents for French - Terrace Chapter, Heather Robinson & Shannon Murdoch for hosting a successful Concours competition in Terrace this weekend. Over 30 participants from across District #82 competed in this local competition for a berth at the Provincial Concours later this spring. Thank you to our judges & participants as well.

PAC/CPF Meeting Cancelled

2010-03-16T17:21:00.000-07:00

The PAC/CPF Meeting for March has been cancelled. Sorry for any inconvenience this may have caused.

Thanks
KKS & CPF Executive

2010 Ski Trip

2010-02-16T10:47:00.000-08:00

The Grade 4/5 & 6/7 classes had a great day hitting the slopes last week. They are off again this week and one last time next week as well. Thank you to the great staff at Shames Mountain for giving our students a wonderful time. Thank you also to CPF Terrace Chapter for sponsoring the transportation.

Fundraiser - Scrapbooking Crop

2010-02-07T17:08:00.000-08:00

Ecole Kiti K’Shan
All Day Scrapbooking Fundraiser: Saturday, February 27th, 2010

Come and spend the day scrapbooking, cardmaking, or crafting of any kind with your friends. This is a great opportunity to raise funds for the school and socialize with other scrapbookers.

10:00am – 5:00pm
Ecole Kiti K’Shan – Gym
Entrance is through the upper parking lot next to the Gym. (No Stairs!)
The cost is $35.00 per person.

Included :
- Coffee & tea (Please bring your own travel mug)
- Lunch & Afternoon Snack
- An on-site store provided by Remember This Scrapbooking: www.rememberthisscrapbooking.ca
- Page contests & Door Prize

Want to increase your odds of winning something, you will get an extra door prize ticket for bringing an appetizer or desert to share at the snack table

Registration forms available at the Ecole Kiti K’Shan Office.

Tickets will be sold on a first-come, first-serve basis; Space is limited.
call Ana Peasgood 250.635.7903 or email goodpeas@telus.net

Carnaval 2010

2010-01-28T22:25:00.000-08:00

Carnaval!

2010-01-21T14:20:00.000-08:00

The Terrace Chapter of CPF is sponsoring our Annual Carnaval celebrations at Ecole Kiti K'Shan January 25th - 29th, 2010.

Monday - Kickoff Assembly 9:10am with a special visit from Bonhomme Carnaval
Tuesday - Toque & Sash Day
Wednesday - Snow Golf in the back upper field
Thursday - Fun Activities in the Gym
Friday - Closing assembly 10:ooam
Merci to the Carnaval Coordinator - Mme. Snyder, all the parent volunteers and the staff of Ecole Kiti K'Shan for supporting this annual event!

To learn more about Carnaval please visit www.carnaval.qc.ca/en

CPF Terrace has Authentic Arrowhead Sashes for sale at Ecole Kiti K'Shan. They are $25 each and all proceeds go to supporting French Language & Cultural Activities in Terrace.
Arrowhead sash with an embroidered Bonhomme Carnaval.

About 92 inches long.

Made in Québec

The arrowhead sash, inspired by the Amerindian culture, has remained a symbol in Quebecois society thanks to the Québec Carnival. In the 19th century, this belt was used to tie jackets at the waist to prevent the cold from creeping in. It also supported the kidneys in moments of physical effort. It was both a practical and fashionable accessory, worn by both the bourgeois and the peasants. The belt and the red hat, linked directly to Québec folklore, are today considered the primary elements of Bonhomme's outfit.

The ceinture fléchée, or arrowhead sash, was one of the famous badges of the voyageur. The ceinture fléchée had many uses. It was used for warmth, as a tump line and a support on the portage, as an emergency rope, and as a mark of distinction and origin. When tightly woven and treated with beeswax, it could even be used as a cup.

Originally, ceintures fléchées were woven by hand using a technique called 'finger weaving'. Later, sashes were machine loomed in England for the Canadian mass market.

The term 'fléchée' refers specifically to the original arrowhead design, but there were many other patterns. The chevron, the 'flammes' (flames), the 'éclairs' (lightning bolts), the 'W' ( double chevron), and the 'tête de flèche' (large two-tone arrowhead) were also used. Colors and patterns were distinctive of various regions. Probably the most famous of all sashes were those from the Assomption area of Lower Canada, which had multiple multi-colored lightning-bolts (éclairs) flanking a central red core.

À l’aventure… partout au Canada!

2010-01-21T14:12:00.000-08:00

French Film night at Ecole Kiti K'Shan
Date: Friday, March 19, 2010
Location: KKS gym
Show Time: 7:00pm (doors open at 6:30)
Free of Charge!

Le 7e voyage de La Mouette, (On the Road with La Mouette!) 2001, 52 min
Directed by François Aubry and Philippe d’Hauterive and produced by Jacques Turgeon

At the crack of dawn, Louise, Philippe and their three sons – Simon, age 19, Félix, 16, and Étienne, 14 – hit the road with their travelling puppet show, Le Théâtre de La Mouette. This time they are setting off for the Maritimes and Newfoundland; it’s their seventh tour in ten years. They have already crossed Canada from east coast to west, and north to the Yukon, taking their amusing play with its serious ecological message to the remotest towns and villages. Like the wandering entertainers of yore, the d'Hauterive family spends gruelling months on the road. But they have freely chosen this lifestyle as a different way of travelling, learning and enjoying their freedom. Interspersing scenes of family life with spectacular scenery and music from around the world, the film invites the spectator along to share the joys and tribulations of this very special family.

Preceded by an animated short film:

Une courtepointe pour grand-maman,(Oma’s Quilt) 2007, 13 min
Directed by Izabela Bzymek and produced by Svend-Erik Eriksen

Oma’s Quilt is about love, life and change. Oma’s home for half a lifetime is brimming with memories that warm her heart yet bring tears to her eyes. On this day, her house stands empty, all the fragments of her life packed neatly into boxes. Oma is moving from Maple Street, where she lived for most of her life, to a senior’s residence where she doesn’t know anyone. Watching these events unfold is granddaughter Emily, a young girl full of wide-eyed enthusiasm. She senses that her grandmother isn’t sure she will like her new home. Wishing to help, Emily does something to ease the burden of such a momentous change in all their lives.

Terrace 2010 BC Winter Games

2010-01-11T21:13:00.000-08:00

Volunteers needed for the 2010 BC Winter Games being hosted in Terrace March 4-7, 2010

If you have some time to give, please go to www.terrace2010bcwintergames.org

Thanks
Ana

All Day Scrapbooking Fundraiser: Saturday, January 30th, 2010

2010-01-08T20:51:00.000-08:00

Ecole Kiti K’Shan
All Day Scrapbooking Fundraiser: Saturday, January 30th, 2010

Come and spend the day scrapbooking, cardmaking, or crafting of any kind with your friends. This is a great opportunity to raise funds for the school and socialize with other scrapbookers.

10:00am – 5:00pm
Ecole Kiti K’Shan – Multi Purpose Room
Entrance is through the upper parking lot next to the Gym. (No Stairs!)
The cost is $35.00 per person.

Included :
- Coffee & tea (Please bring your own travel mug)
- Lunch & Afternoon Snack
- An on-site store provided by Remember This Scrapbooking: www.rememberthisscrapbooking.ca
- Page contests & Door Prize

Want to increase your odds of winning something, you will get an extra door prize ticket for bringing an appetizer or desert to share at the snack table

Registration forms available at the Ecole Kiti K’Shan Office.

Tickets will be sold on a first-come, first-serve basis; Space is limited.
For more information visit www.kkspac.blogspot.com or call Ana Peasgood 250.635.7903

PAC - December Minutes

2010-01-08T15:24:00.001-08:00

Kiti K’Shan School
Parent Advisory Committee

Monthly Meeting Minutes December 16th, 2009

1. Meeting commenced at 6:30 pm (In attendance: Maxine Champion, Lorelle Kluss, Nita Back, Ginny Kenmuir, Michelle Beckley, Ana Peasgood, Terri Bowles.)

2. Secretary’s Report:
-Lorelle motioned to adopt the November minutes. Nita seconded the motion.

3. Treasurer’s Report :
-Lorelle Kluss reported that as of November 30, 2009, there is $838.67 in the Operating account and $ 6,710.72 in the Gaming account.
-Lorelle, Ginny and Nita have signing authority for PAC accounts at Northern Savings Credit Union.

4. DPAC Rep. Report:
-Michelle Beckley attended the first meeting on November 21. It was the AGM. Michelle and Laurie Mutshke will be sharing the role of secretary.
-Lorelle motioned to vote that KKS PAC will NOT pay for membership to DPAC for 2009-2010. Everyone agreed.

5. Hot Lunch Coordinator Report:
-Terri Bowles reported that volunteers are still needed. She needs 4 helpers for about 15 minutes to help deliver orders.
-There were 57 orders out of a total of 113 students. The kids are enjoying it and the next order form is already out.

6. Fundraising Coordinator Report:
-The Usborne Book Read-A-Thon is finished and was very successful. 41 students participated raising a total of $1,849.35. That means $1,054.14 in new books for our library.
-Ana would like to host a movie night at the school and possibly have showings of the Olympic hockey games.
-Ana and Terri are organizing an all day scrapbooking crop for the end of January. It will cost $35 per person and include lunch. Remember This scrapbooking store will be onsite. PAC should make about $18 a person.

7. Principal’s Report:
-The Christmas Bazaar was very successful. The Grade 7 Club raised over $480.00. Next year there needs to be more items to buy, more time for shopping and bags should be provided for the students.
-The Christmas concert is this Friday at 10:30.
-KKS is a BC Winter Games Billeting school and volunteers are still needed. Ana should add this to our blog.

7. Old Business:
-Nita was paid for FoodSafe course.

8. New Business:
-None

7. Meeting adjourned 7:30. Next meeting January 20th, 2010.

CPF December Minutes

2010-01-08T15:22:00.000-08:00

CPF Meeting
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Minutes recorded by Nita Back

Call to Order: 7:30 p.m.

Attendance: Lorelle Kluss, Ana Peasgood, Nita Back, Maxine Champion, Ginny Kenmuir, Terri Bowles, David Block, Michelle Beckley.

Secretary’s Report –Nita motioned to adopt the changed minutes from the November meeting with David being appointed the Spring Barbeque coordinator. Lorelle seconded and the motion was approved.

Treasurer’s Report –Lorelle presented the financial status of the accounts held at the Royal Bank. As of November 26, the Operating account has $ 8,696.39 and the Bingo (gaming) account has $9,094.07.
-Terri motioned to remove Michael Johnson from the treasurer position due to his inability to fulfil all the necessary roles as treasurer. The motion was passed. Lorelle to write a letter to Michael to let him know about the decision.
-David motioned to have Ginny as the new treasurer. The motion was passed.

Vice-Chairperson Report – bingo grant has to be in by the end of February.

Old Business – The Family Dance was a success. Estimated profits were more than $1000.00. Some suggestions for next year would be to have the dance go for a longer time, look at doing the pictures differently (the lighting wasn’t great this year), possibly changing the location of some of the games and changing the menu of the canteen.)

New Business – Lorelle motioned that the scrapbooking cap should be $50.00 for the year 2009/2010. The motion was passed. Lorelle to talk with Stella Peden as to how much money has been spent so far.
-David presented some options for purchasing a CPF canopy to be used at future events.
-Simone has volunteered to coordinate the Winter Carnival this year to take place at the end of January.

Adjournment - 8:30pm. Next meeting January 20, 2010.

READ A THON

2009-12-09T12:00:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder!

The REACH FOR THE STARS!! reading incentive program is almost over.
You will finish the reading portion of the program this Friday.

Next, please bring all pledge money and sponsor sheets to school.

All cheques should be made to Canadian Parents for French.

PLEASE TRY to have pledge money to school by MONDAY, December 14

All money MUST be turned in to school by WEDNESDAY, December 16.

Free Book Vouchers will go out next week to students who return forms and money.

Students will choose books online at www.usbornebooksathome.ca

Thank you !

CPF November Meeting Minutes

2009-12-07T09:20:00.000-08:00

CPF Meeting
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Minutes recorded by Nita Back

Call to Order: 7:30 p.m.

Attendance: Lorelle Kluss, Ana Peasgood, Nita Back, Maxine Champion, Erin Ball, Terri Bowles, David Block, Michelle Beckley, Lyne McWilliam-Watt, Dina vonHahn.

Secretary’s Report –Lorelle motioned to adopt minutes from the last meeting in October. Terri seconded and the motion was approved.

Treasurer’s Report –Lorelle presented the financial status of the accounts held at the Royal Bank. As of November 2, the Operating account has $ 8,266.21 and the Bingo (gaming) account has $9,494.07.
-Erin will follow up with Lorraine Tomaz regarding grants.

Old Business – Organization of the Family Dance is going well – lots of volunteers and donations by businesses for the silent auction.

New Business – Nita motioned for CPF to buy the Carnival scarves from Valerie Neifer at a cost of $828.00. Dina second and the motion was approved.
-Lorelle motioned to spend money on bringing a performance to Kiti K’Shan (Le Franco a GoGo). Everyone agreed.
-Lorelle will look into buying CPF materials to be used as teacher’s gifts and promotional items (pens, keychains, etc…)

Adjournment - 8:10pm. Next meeting December 16, 2009.

KKS PAC November Meeting Minutes

2009-12-07T09:19:00.000-08:00

Kiti K’Shan School
Parent Advisory Committee

Monthly Meeting Minutes November 18th, 2009

1. Meeting commenced at 6:40 pm (In attendance: Maxine Champion, Lorelle Kluss, Nita Back, Erin Ball, Michelle Beckley, Ana Peasgood, Valerie Neifer, Terri Bowles, Dina VonHahn, Lyne McWillam-Watts.)

2. Secretary’s Report:
-The September monthly minutes will be adopted next month.
-Lorelle motioned to adopt the October minutes with the changes. Nita seconded the motion.

3. Treasurer’s Report :
-Lorelle Kluss reported that as at October 31, 2009, there is $354 in the Operating account and $ 2,140 in the Gaming account.
-Ginny is still waiting for Northern Savings to contact her to change the signing authority.

4. DPAC Rep. Report:
-Michelle Beckley is going to attend the first meeting at the Kiva (NWCC) on Saturday, November 21.

5. Hot Lunch Coordinator Report:
-Terri reported that to date there has been only one volunteer, Flo Sheppard. She helped make up the menu to follow the proper guidelines.
-The program will go ahead for December, but if there are no volunteers then the program will not continue in January.
-Volunteers are needed on Tuesdays for .5 hour to deliver the lunches to classrooms (preferably one parent per classroom).
-The key for the locked box is in the office. This is where hot lunch order forms are to be dropped off.

6. Fundraising Coordinator Report:
-Ana has organized the Usborne Book Read-A-Thon. It starts November 30 for 10 days. The teachers are supporting it. Ana will post results when completed.

7. Principal’s Report:
-Ally Howard is coming on November 20 to give a presentation to the school on swimming the Skeena River.
-CPF will host a Family Dance at the school on November 20.
-Report cards go out on Monday, November 30 and parent teacher interviews will be December 2 and 3.
-December 15, the classes will be having a Christmas bazaar. Each class will make something to sell. There will also be a mason jar exchange for the students.
-The Christmas Concert will be 10:30am, December 18 at the REM Lee Theatre.
-Regarding the H1N1 outbreak, the highest reported absenteeism was 22%.

7. Old Business:
-Nita still needs to be paid for taking the Food Safe Course – waiting for new signing authority from Northern Savings Credit Union.

8. New Business:
-We need one more volunteer to work backstage at the Christmas Concert on December 18. Terri Bowles will work backstage. Michelle Beckley will use her truck to drive over the equipment. Michelle, Valerie and Nita will decorate the stage. We need wrapped boxes for the stage.
-Dina commented on how good the PAC Blog is - Thanks to Ana!

7. Meeting adjourned 7:20. Next meeting December 16.

Thank you!

2009-11-25T13:25:00.000-08:00

Thank you to all the parent and student volunteers who helped make our 3rd Annual Community Dance a huge success!

Photos are now available for pickup at your childs school. If you did not pick up your auction item(s), please do so at the KKS front office. You may pay by cash or cheque.

The Terrace Chapter of Canadian Parents for French would like to thank the following local businesses for supporting our 3rd Annual Community Dance. Merci Beaucoup!

A&W
All Star Shoes
Anka's
Bear Country Inn
Bea's Flowerland
Beckley Built Homes
Beveled Edge
Bootlegger
Boston Pizza
Bowling Lanes
Cafenara
Canada Post
Canadian Tire
Chrysler
CJ's Fashions
Coast Inn of the West
Cole's Book Store
Cookie Jar
Creative Zone
Dairy Queen
Denny's
Disciple Fight Gear
Don Diego's
Dynamic Health Foods
Elizabeth Fashions
Ella
Fiori design
Ford
Four Hands
Gemma's
Honda
Hot House
Images By Karlene
Inner Rhythm Massage
Kathleen's Fashions
Kristian's Emporium
Marisa's Dress Making
Mark's Work Wearhouse
Mason Décor
McCarthy Motors
McDonalds
Misty River Books
Mr. Mikes
My Scrapbook Place
Napa
Northcoast Fitness
NSIS
NW Cartridge Exchange
PB Auto Detail
Petland
Pizza Hut
Quilt Patch
Rick McDaniel – Remax
Rona
Ruins
Safeway
Save On Foods
Shames Mountain
Sheffield Express
Sight n Sound
Sonny's Collectable
Source for Sports
Source: Circuit City
Spirit Bear Gallery
St John's Ambulance
Starfish Bistro
Tiramisu
Teaching Tools
The Dollar Store
Twilight Spas
Urban Colour
UR Creations
Your Décor

Readathon

2009-11-12T21:48:00.000-08:00

Terrace Chapter of Canadian Parents for French
presents
REACH FOR THE STARS!!
Readathon

Bonjour, KITI K’SHAN FAMILIES!!

OUR SCHOOL IS SPONSORING AN EXCITING READING INCENTIVE PROGRAM! Watch for information to be coming home next week in your childs backpack.
Step 1
Accept the challenge to read, or be read to, at least 30 minutes daily for 10 days – 15 minutes at school, 15 minutes at home.

Step 2
Ask your relatives, friends and neighbors to sponsor your reading by making a pledge. You will get 50% back from what you collect in sponsorship dollars in BOOKS – so if you collect $50, you will get $25 in free books. The school library gets the remaining 50%. No GST will be charged.

Step 3
Begin reading on Monday, November 30th. Log your reading each night.

Step 4
When the Readathon ends, bring your sponsor money to school.

Step 5
After all money is collected you and your school will get to choose your books!!

All readers will have a chance to win an Usborne book.

You will also earn books for yourself, so have fun reading!!!!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you have any questions regarding this Kiti K’Shan Fundraiser, please call Ana @ 635-7903 or email goodpeas@telus.net

Volunteers Needed for Hot Lunch Program

2009-11-11T10:21:00.000-08:00

Dear Parents:

KKS is looking to start up a lunch program that will run once a week on Tuesdays. I am looking for parent volunteers who could assist in this endeavour.
If you are interested, please either phone me at 250-635-0776, or email me with the subject of “lunch program” to dcbooks@telus.net. We are looking to get the program up and running by mid November and carry on throughout the year.

Volunteers are needed for:

- 2 parents from each class to distribute lunches (Approx. ½ hr per week)
- People to pick up meals from the vendors (Approx. ½ hr per week)
- Somebody to fill in where needed from time to time

Thank you in advance for your help and support.

Terri Bowles
Lunch Program Co-ordinator

Family Dance Meeting Postponed

2009-11-03T13:43:00.001-08:00

The planning meeting scheduled for tonight has been cancelled. We will post a new date and time when we know.

Hot Lunch Program is coming.........

2009-10-30T17:15:00.000-07:00

What's happening at Kiti K'Shan

2009-10-29T13:07:00.002-07:00

A few new things for students and parents to look forward to at Ecole Kiti K'Shan

Leadership Club
The Grade 7 Leadership group is in full swing. They are hosting lunch hour clubs everyday of the week and they will be hosting a Halloween dance for the students. Thank you to everyone in the group for giving up your free time to make Kiti K'Shan a great place to be!

Trees for Tomorrow
The trees have been planted on the school yard and there will be more to come in the spring. Thank you to the maintenance crew for all your hard work. Students & staff can look forward to a celebration BBQ & yard work bee in the spring.

CPF Family Dance
November 20th 6:30-8:30pm
Ecole Kiti K'Shan
Free for CPF Members - Non Members $5 per family

Come out and enjoy a great night of dancing and other fun activities.

Read-A-Thon
Help the school earn new books for the library, and earn some for yourself. Watch for more information to be coming home soon.

October KKS PAC Meeting Minutes

2009-10-29T13:07:00.001-07:00

Kiti K’Shan School
Parent Advisory Committee

Monthly Meeting Minutes October 21st, 2009

1. Meeting commenced at 6:30 pm (In attendance: Maxine Champion, Lorelle Kluss, Nita Back, Shannon Murdoch, Kerry Giesbrecht, Erin Ball, Michelle Beckley, Ana Peasgood, David Bloc, Terri Bowles.)

2. Chairperson’s Report:
-The constitution and bylaws for the new executive can be found on the Kiti K’Shan blog (kkspac.blogspot.com)

3. Secretary’s Report:
-The September monthly minutes will be adopted next month.
-Nita to check filing cabinet in Rm. 9 for key to locked ‘Comment’ box in school front entrance.

4. Treasurer’s Report :
-Lorelle Kluss reported that as at October 1, 2009, there is $277.97 in the Operating account and $ 4,570.72 in the Gaming account.
-Ginny is waited for Northern Savings to contact her to change the signing authority.

5. Hot Lunch Coordinator Report:
-Terri is in the process of setting up a weekly hot lunch program(to be delivered on Tuesdays). She hopes to have it running by mid-November.
-Terri will write up a letter asking for 5 parent volunteers to help with delivery.
-She will ask Jack Cook School if they are interested in joining our program.

6. Principal’s Report:
-Maxine updated the school numbers, currently there are 139 students.
-Grade 7 Leadership Club is running various noon hour clubs which seem to be going very well. They are putting on a Halloween Dance, one for kindergartens to Gr. 3 at lunch and afterschool for Gr.4-7. Students will be able to wear costumes to school on Friday, October 29.
-Milk program is going well. Grade five students are doing the delivery.
-Mr.Geary class has collected salmon eggs from Deep Creek. They are in the tank in front of the library.
-Our school team is Les Bouledogues with purple, gold and white colour uniforms. Our boys and girls volleyball teams are starting to compete.
-Maxine suggested having a Trees for Tomorrow celebration in the spring.
-We still need representatives for the School Planning Council.
-The grade 6/7 class are creating a new crest for our school. The teachers will vote to choose the final one to be used as the new letterhead.
7. Old Business:
-Nita still needs to be paid for taking the Food Safe Course – waiting for new signing authority from Northern Savings Credit Union.
-BBQ/Trees for Tomorrow – This was unanimously decided to hold a celebration in the spring when all the planting is done and the weather is warmer.

8. New Business:
-Lorelle has set up a meeting schedule for the year and it has been distributed to everyone.
-Lorelle made a motion to cover costs of school uniforms. This would be $856 plus shipping and GST for 20 uniforms. The motion was approved.
-Ana is organizing a fundraising Read-A-Thon. Ana and Nita are discussing other fundraising ideas.
- Lorelle will look into having child minding at the next meeting.

7. Meeting adjourned 7:30. Next meeting November 18.

October CPF Terrace Minutes

2009-10-29T13:06:00.000-07:00

CPF Meeting
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Minutes recorded by Nita Back

Call to Order: 7:30 p.m.

Attendance: Lorelle Kluss, Ana Peasgood, Shannon Walker, Nita Back, Maxine Champion, Erin Ball, Terri Bowles, David Block, Michelle Beckley, Kerry Giesbrecht.

Secretary’s Report –Lorelle motioned to adopt minutes from the last meeting in May. David seconded and the motion was approved.

Treasurer’s Report – Micheal Johnson is the current treasurer, but he was not present. Lorelle and Nita currently have the signing authority for the cheques. Lorelle presented the financial status of the accounts held at the Royal Bank. The Operating account has $ 8,266.21 and the Bingo (gaming) account has $11,410.92.

Old Business – The CPF barbeque to be held with the KKS PAC at their tree ceremony will take place in the spring. School trustees and media should be invited.

New Business – Lorelle has set up a meeting schedule for the year and it has been distributed to everyone. We still need to set up extra meetings with Jack Cook, Skeena and Caledonia. It was suggested making these meetings into ‘Theme Meetings’, ie. the meeting at Jack Cook could also include a French lesson for the parents, Skeena’s meeting could take a look at what French Immersion looks like at the higher grades. Lorelle to organize this.

The CPF BC/Yukon AGM is in Vancouver on November 6-8. It would be very beneficial for someone to attend. No one at the meeting can go. Lorelle to try and find someone to go.

Maxine motioned for CPF to pay $350 for a French Illustrator that was at Caledonia. Nita seconded and the motion was approved.

A date for the Fall Dance was picked, November 20 from 6:30-8:30. Lyne Watts cannot organize it this year, but will give all the information to Nita. Advertising and finding donations needs to be done ASAP.

Lorelle suggested as a goal for fundraising, we look into events for the older students. She will check into an exchange program for Gr.7/8 students to SFU.

Erin is looking into and will apply for the Socio-Cultural Grant.

Adjournment - 8:15pm. Next meeting November 18, 2009.

Hot Lunch & Christmas Holiday Dance Volunteers Needed!

2009-10-21T21:11:00.000-07:00

HOT LUNCH
We are in need of 5 parent volunteers to help deliver Hot Lunch every Tuesday. Time commitment is 1/2hour per week. Please call KKS at 635-3115 or email Lorelle at blkluss@telus.net

FAMILY DANCE
We also need volunteers for our upcoming CPF Holiday Dance - November 20th from 6:30-8:30pm. If you have some time to give please email Nita at rnback@telus.net or call KKS at 635-3115.

CPF Terrace donates over $2000 worth of books to Kiti K'Shan

2009-10-05T15:10:00.000-07:00

The CPF Terrace Chapter hosted a Festival Du Livre during the open house on September 24th. CPF Terrace Chapter generously donated $1000 worth of books that were choosen and donated to the library that day. Thanks to that donation and the incredible support of all the families at Ecole Kiti K'Shan another $1062.64 will be available to our school librarian to help build our school library with more French Resources.

The mandate of CPF - Terrace Chapter is to support French Language culture in Terrace. The library at Kiti K'Shan is used by all the students from grades Kindergarten to Seven at Ecole Kiti K'Shan, as well as all the students from Jack Cook Elementary.

Thank you to all the volunteers who helped out in creating a lasting legacy at Ecole Kiti K' Shan.

For more information about joining CPF please visit www.cpf.bc.ca If you join before October 30th, 90% of your membership fees will go directly to the local chapter.

AGM Meeting Minutes

2009-09-28T12:45:00.000-07:00

Kiti K’Shan School
Parent Advisory Committee

Monthly Meeting Minutes September 24th, 2009

1. Meeting commenced at 7:30 pm (In attendance: Maxine Champion, Lorelle Kluss, Roylene Richey, Nita Back, Shannon Murdoch, Kerry Giesbrecht, Erin Ball, Michelle Beckley, Valerie Neifer, Ginny Kenmuir, Stephanie Johnson, Ana Peasgood.)

2. Treasurer’s Report :

A. Lorelle Kluss reported that as at September 15, 2009, there is $280.47 in the Operating account and $4,570.72 in the Gaming account.

3. Old Business:
A. Discussed BC Schools Fruit and Vegetable Program – The program is up and running with the first delivery already done. Nita Back would like to take the Food Safe course. Lorelle made a motion for PAC to pay for her course fees and everyone agreed. The motioned was passed.
B. BBQ/Trees for Tomorrow – There was discussion regarding an ‘Opening Ceremony’ with a barbeque after the trees are planted.

3. New Business:
A. Discussed a meeting schedule for the year – Lorelle to get feedback from people and set up a schedule.
B. Discussed membership to DPAC which is free. Lorelle made a motion to join and everyone voted unanimously to join.
C. Elections of new PAC executive:
-Chairperson – Lorelle Kluss
-Vice Chair – Erin Ball
-Treasurer – Ginny Kenmuir
-Secretary – Nita Back
-DPAC Rep – Michelle Beckley
-Hot Lunch Coordinator – open
D. Terri Bowles may be interested in the Hot Lunch Coordinator position. Roylene will contact Richard Kriegal of Bert’s Deli to check into options for a hot lunch menu.

7. Meeting adjourned 8:15. Next meeting TBA.

Hot Lunch Coordinator Needed

2009-09-27T20:34:00.000-07:00

The PAC at Kiti K'Shan would like to offer a Hot Lunch program to the students this year. We are looking for a parent who would like to be the coordinator. If you think that this program is something you would like to be a part of, please contact the PAC Chair, Lorelle Kluss at blkluss@telus.net

Whoooo wants Milk?

2009-09-25T20:20:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to get your milk order forms for the Month of October in to your childs teacher by September 29th! Milk will be delivered twice per week and can order either white, chocolate or rice milk.

Open House & PAC AGM

2009-09-09T20:31:00.000-07:00

Welcome back to the 2009/2010 school year at Ecole Kiti K'Shan. We hope everyone had a great summer.

The annual KKS Open House will be September 24th 6:30 -7:30pm

The KKS PAC will also be holding their AGM right after the Open House at 7:30pm

Positions to be elected are:
Chair
Vice Chair
Secretary
Treasurer
School Planning Council Rep.(3)
DPAC Rep.

We will also be voting on membership for BCCPAC and SD#82 DPAC

This meeting will be short and we hope to see everyone there!

Hopscotch anyone?

2009-06-29T13:53:00.000-07:00

The Kiti K'Shan PAC painted some new games on the pavement outside at KKS & CHE this past weekend for students to enjoy.

Huge thanks goes to:

Kathleen & Leon Schulte
Nita Back
Marilyn at Terrace Interiors
Doug Richey at Westpoint Rentals

Have a safe and happy summer and we will see everyone in September!

April PAC Minutes

2009-05-26T15:05:00.000-07:00

Kiti K’Shan School
Parent Advisory Committee

Monthly Meeting Minutes April 29, 2009

1. Introduction: Meeting commenced at 6:30 pm. (In attendance: Joe Vidal, Maxine Champion, Laurie Mutschke, Kathleen and Summer Schulte, Roylene Richey and Nita Back.)

2. Adoption of Agenda: Kathleen motioned to adopt the agenda. Laurie seconded. The motion was carried.

3. Regrets: Josianne Biggs

4. Secretary’s Report: Kathleen motioned to adopt the February minutes. Nita seconded. The motion was carried.

5. Treasurer’s Report: No review of financial report. Need to ask Connie if the Trees for Tomorrow Grant has actually been deposited.

6. DPAC Report:

A. Laurie Mutschke (Kiti K’Shan) is Co-chair. Laurie gave a brief update of bylaws and constitutions.
B. Next meeting is May 6 @ 6pm and anyone is welcome to attend these meetings.
C. Laurie strongly encourages Kiti K’Shan to have a DPAC representative next year.

7. Old Business:

A. Kiti K’Shan did receive The Trees for Tomorrow grant. Further notification will be sent out as to how and when the money will be spent.
B. We did not get the playground grant.
C. Garden Club – community members are interested in helping with our gardens. The teachers have the pots and seeds. Ana is organizing work bees to get started on the vegetable and flower beds.

8. New Business:

A. Roylene motioned for the PAC to buy a $50 gift card from Sight & Sound for Mr. Bruce (CHES PAC to buy for Mr. McDicken) to thank them for their hard work at the Music Festival. Kathleen seconded. The motion was carried. Simone Snyder will purchase the gifts to be given out at an upcoming assembly.
B. Cassie Hall PAC has requested a meeting with the Kiti K’Shan’s PAC to discuss reconfiguration details. Laurie will send out an email with date and time.
C. Run for Fun is underway and going very well.
D. Sports/fun Day – PAC is looking at donating money towards buying t-shirts for the students.

9. Principal’s Report:
A. Discussed the procession of the K-7 CH (English) and K-7 KKS (French immersion).
B. Ready, Set, Learn Activity is scheduled for Wednesday, May 27th from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
C. Discussed end of year activities, ie. Sports Day, Annual Grade 3 trip, End of Year Assembly

Meeting adjourned 8:00. Next meeting May 27, 2009.

Work Bees

2009-05-06T15:59:00.001-07:00

Kiti K’Shan PAC Garden Club
Upcoming Work Bees

Saturday May 9th – 10:00am – 11:00am
(Flower Garden adjacent to the front parking lot)

Saturday May 23rd – 10:00am – 11:00am
(Vegetable Garden next to the stairs on the side of the school)

Please bring work gloves and garden tools (if you have them)
Parents – also feel free to come and work on either the flower bed or the vegetable garden anytime you have available.
For more information please visit: www.kkspac.blogspot.com
or call Ana @ 635-7903
***************************************
Kiti K’Shan was also the successful recipient of a Trees for Tomorrow grant of $11,500. There are four main areas of the school grounds that will be planted with new trees. The entire school community is encouraged to come participate in the planting of this new urban forest. We will be sending out information on dates, times & how the students and parents will be able to participate in the upcoming months. To see a copy of the grant and the proposed developments, please contact the front office of Kiti K’Shan

School Changes for 2009/2010 School Year

2009-04-22T15:19:00.000-07:00

Kiti K'Shan will be changing from a dual track K-3 to a French Immersion Single Track K-7 school in September 2009. For more infomation on this reconfiguration, please contact the school at 635-3115.

Kindergarten registration is now ongoing. Students may also enter the French Immersion Stream during their Grade one year.

March Meeting - Cancelled

2009-03-22T15:18:00.000-07:00

Due to Spring Break - the March PAC meeting was cancelled.

February PAC Meeting Minutes

2009-03-11T22:56:00.001-07:00

Kiti K’Shan School
Parent Advisory Committee

Monthly Meeting Minutes February 25, 2009

1. Introduction: Meeting commenced at 6:35 pm. (In attendance: Joe Vidal, Laurie Mutschke, Kathleen Schulte and Nita Back )

2. Adoption of Agenda: Kathleen motioned to adopt the agenda. Laurie seconded. The motion was carried.

3. Regrets: Claudia and Terry Ruel, Ana Peasgood, Roylene Richey, Connie Yasinchuk

4. Secretary’s Report: Kathleen motioned to adopt the January minutes. Nita seconded. The motion was carried.

5. Treasurer’s Report: No review of financial report.

6. DPAC Report:

A. DPAC Representative still needed. Based on low number of people at the meeting will try again next month.
B. Laurie Mutschke (Kiti K’Shan) and Shar McCory (John Field Elementary School in Hazelton) are co-chairs.
C. Anyone is welcome to attend these meetings and Laurie will notify everyone with date of the next meeting.

7. Old Business:

A. Milk Program – The program is running well with milk sales increasing from last month. Kathleen would like Pam Jones-Gallants’ Grade 3 class to help deliver the milk. She would like each student that helps to receive free milk.
B. The Trees for Tomorrow grant has been approved by the Board and sent in with notification of approval being given in May. The Playground Equipment grant has been sent in and notification will be given March 31. The Community Connections Grant has been given to the Board, but not yet approved.
C. Fruit and Vegetable Snack Programs - Agatha’s Snack program started last week and it ran smoothly (deliveries will be Mondays and Wednesdays). Kyra Slofstra will help on Mondays. It is running on alternate weeks to the BC Fruit and Vegetable Program.

8. New Business:

A. Laurie to look into the costs of purchasing buttons for Sports Day.
B. There will be a meeting at Cassie Hall School March 10 starting at 7:00 to discuss the reconfiguration of the two schools. Rob Greenwood will provide an overview, history and the current status of this move. There will be time available for questions and answers.
C. PAC will send out notification letters to all parents with a comment slip at the bottom for parents to ask questions if they are not able to make the meeting. Will provide a drop off box at the office for these comments/questions.
D. Laurie to send out emails requesting help from parents to make phone calls on behalf of PAC informing everyone of the upcoming meeting March 10.
E. Kathleen to price out pots and seeds for Mothers Day gifts.

9. Meeting adjourned 8:10. Next meeting March 31, 2009.

KKS PAC - January Minutes

2009-02-13T11:42:00.000-08:00

Kiti K’Shan School
Parent Advisory Committee

Monthly Meeting Minutes January 28, 2009

1. Introduction: Meeting commenced at 6:40 pm. (In attendance: Joe Vidal, Laurie Mutschke, Kathleen Schulte, Ana Peasgood, Kerry Giesbrecht and Nita Back )

2. Adoption of Agenda: Kathleen motioned to adopt the agenda. Nita seconded. The motion was carried.

3. Regrets: Claudia and Terry Ruel

4. Secretary’s Report: Kathleen motioned to adopt the November minutes. Nita seconded. The motion was carried.

5. Treasurer’s Report: No review of financial report.

6. Executive Vacancy: DPAC Representative still needed. Based on low number of people at the meeting will try again next month.
Next DPAC meeting is February 13th.

7. Old Business:

A. Milk Program – The program is running well. Extra milks should be going to the breakfast program.
B. The $30 cheque for the old fridge has arrived (Fridge Buy Back Program).
C. The Trees for Tomorrow grant and the Playground Equipment grant have been sent in.
D. Fruit and Vegetable Snack Program - Agatha’s Snack program will run every second week (alternating with the BC Fruit and Vegetable Snack Program). Jennifer Lindstrom has offered to help on Tuesday and Laurie will help Agatha on Thursday.

8. New Business:

A. Ana motioned for PAC to give $50 to purchase seeds and supplies for the Garden Club. Laurie seconded the motion. The motion was carried. Ana will send letters to Jack Cook School, Child Development Center and Cassie Hall to see if they are interested in helping/joining the KKS Garden Club.
B. Ana will apply for the BCTSA Community Connections Grant.

C. There was much discussion about the recent announcement of reconfiguring KKS and Cassie Hall into single track French Immersion and English schools. Kathleen motioned to write a letter to Rob Greenwood requesting an information session for parents of both schools. Laurie seconded the motion. The motion was carried.

9. Principal’s Report:

A. Discussed recent 911 and PALS presentations. Both were very successful events.
B. Gave an update on school reconfiguration process.
C. Included a budget update.

10. Meeting adjourned 8:40. Next meeting February 25, 2009.

A little Inspiration and Motivation

2009-02-10T15:16:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays!

2008-12-04T10:26:00.000-08:00

The Kiti K'Shan PAC would like to wish all students, parents and staff a safe and happy Christmas Season. The first day of school will be Monday January 5th, 2009.

Merry Christmas!

Whooo wants milk?

2008-12-04T10:22:00.001-08:00

Milk order forms went home with your child this week. Please remember to return the form by December 10th! The milk program will start in January.

Winter Reminders

2008-12-04T10:16:00.000-08:00

Please do not idle your vehicle when picking up or dropping off your child. The exhaust fumes are very unhealthy for everyone.

If you know your child is going to be away, please ensure you contact the teacher with enough notice if you would like some homework for your child.

With the cold weather set in, please remember to send your child to school with warm clothes. Toques, mittens, warm jackets, winter boots and snow pants are all needed to keep the kids nice and toasty. It is a good idea to send an extra set of mittens for your child to keep in their backpack in case the first pair gets wet. Please label all clothing to help the kids keep track of their items. Most importantly, lets make sure the kids zip up their jackets!

Kiti K Shan Christmas Concert

2008-12-04T10:14:00.000-08:00

The annual Kiti K Shan Christmas Concert will be held at the REM Lee Theatre

Monday, Decemeber 8th at 1pm.

The students and staff have been working hard to prepare an amazing concert.

Donations will be accepted at the door to help cover the cost of bussing the students to the Theatre.

Doors open at 12:45.

DPAC Rep Needed

2008-12-04T10:13:00.000-08:00

The PAC needs a parent who can represent our school at the DPAC. You would need to be able to attend both monthly PAC and DPAC meetings. Please come to the next PAC meeting if you think this is something you would like to do.

November PAC Minutes -Unapproved

2008-12-04T10:11:00.000-08:00

Kiti K’Shan School
Parent Advisory Committee

Monthly Meeting Minutes November 26, 2008

1. Meeting commenced at 6:30 pm (In attendance: Joe Vidal, Roylene Richey, Nita Back, Kathleen Schulte, Ana Peasgood, and Valerie Neifer)

2. Kathleen motioned to adopt the agenda. Nita seconded. The motion was carried.

3. Regrets: Laurie Mutschke and Connie Yasinchuk

4. Kathleen motioned to adopt the September minutes. Nita seconded. The motion was carried.

5. Treasurer’s Report :

A. Kathleen reviewed treasurer’s report on Connie’s behalf. Reported that there is $5,965.54.00 in account ($4,588.22 from the gaming account and $1,377.32 in regular PAC funds).

6. Kathleen reviewed the highlights from the Board of Education meeting held November 12

7. DPAC Report

A. Tanya Ballinger has resigned from being DPAC representative.
B. Due to poor turn out at current PAC meeting, we will vote on a new DPAC representative next meeting after requests for volunteers are put out in next newsletter.

8. Old Business:

A. Milk Program – The Halloween milk day was a success. There were lots of orders and it all ran smoothly with no problems, even with the short notice and time frame. Roylene and Kathleen want to send out pre order forms by first week of December to set up program in January. Students will be able to order monthly or daily at a cost of $1.00 for a small milk. It will be delivered every Wednesday (Valerie offered to help with deliveries). Kathleen suggested ideas for promoting milk program, for example class poster contests and random sticker games.
B. Fruit and Vegetable Snack Program - we are going to look into having some older children help with delivery of the produce as well as the milk. Jennifer Lindstrom has offered to help with this program.

9. New Business:

A. Carnival in January – Volunteers are needed to help on January 14 & 15 – contact Roylene Richie or Simone Snyder. We should put up a volunteer sign up sheet and Carnival schedule outside the office. Some new ideas were discussed for carnival this year – possibly having a sled dog team demonstration, each student to make their own Bonhomme picture frame keepsake, musical Bonhomme (similar to musical chairs). Valerie is to order some new posters for Carnival.
B. Charitable Project – Kathleen suggested having the students make some decorations or cards and PAC donating money to the Chapman family and the young boy in Kitimat who was in last weeks paper. Mr. Vidal said the school would support that and help with a donation.
C. Christmas Concert – It will be on December 8th at 1:00.
D. Discussed end of year keepsakes for Grade 3 students. T-shirts with students signatures and the Kiti K’Shan logo were suggested.

6. Principal’s Report:

A. Gave PAC grant applications - Ana took the Trees for Tomorrow grant and Kathleen the playground grant.
B. Discussed budget update.
C. Requested volunteer help for carnival.
D. Discussed the importance of giving teachers plenty of time to prepare homework for students that are away.

7. Meeting adjourned 8:00. Next meeting January 28, 2009.

Don't forget to VOTE!

2008-10-31T21:02:00.000-07:00

This November 15, 2008 school trustee elections will determine who, over the next three years, will be entrusted to shape and lead tomorrow’s citizens.

Meet your trustee candidates!

Art Erasmus
Mary Ann Freeman

Tanis Kilpatrick

Diana Penner

Hal Stedham

To read Candidate Profiles visit:http://www.bcsta.org/electionsHome/candidateProfiles

Make sure you get out and vote on November 15th for the School Trustee election. It may be one of the most important things you can do for your child and their education!

PAC News

2008-10-31T20:51:00.000-07:00

The Kiti K Shan PAC has purchased a set of 30 Booster Seats to be used on school field trips.

News laws came into effect this year. These can be found at ICBC link for boosterseats www.icbc.com/road_safetycarseat_law.asp

We hope that the parents and students at Kiti K' Shan Primary will be happy that all children will be safely transported in the correct seats for upcoming field trips.

The PAC also offered a special Halloween Treat of Chocolate or White Milk that was ordered and delivered by the PAC members. Watch for a Milk Program to be started up in the New year!

October PAC Minutes (Unapproved)

2008-10-31T20:50:00.000-07:00

Monthly Meeting Minutes October 22th, 2008

1. Meeting commenced at 6:30 pm (In attendance: Joe Vidal, Laurie Mutschke, Roylene Richey, Nita Back, Kathleen Schulte, Connie Yasinchuk, Ana Peasgood, Tanya Ballinger, Claudia and Terry Ruel)

Ana motioned to adopt the amended agenda. Kathleen seconded. The motion was carried.
Laurie motioned to adopt the September minutes. Kathleen seconded. The motion was carried.

2. Treasurer's Report :

A. Connie reported that there is $8,140.00 in account ($4,340 from the gaming grant and $3,800 in regular PAC funds).
B. Ana motioned that Connie set a budget for the year. Laurie motioned to make a subcommittee for creating a budget.
C. Ideas to use PAC funds included: booster seats, playground equipment, popcorn maker, new indoor/gym equipment, new fridge, compost bin.

3. DPAC Report – Laurie attended the DPAC meeting on October 17.

A. DPAC will pay BCCPAC fees of $65.
B. Discussed the difference between PAC, CPF and DPAC and how this may be confusing for new parents. Laurie moved to send out a parent information sheet both electronically and hard copies to explain the differences.
C. Next DPAC meeting Friday, November 28.

4. Old Business:

A. Elections of new DPAC and School Planning Counsel representatives were done by secret ballot. Elected representatives for 2008/2009:
-Tanya Ballinger – DPAC and School Planning Counsel
-Kathleen Shulte – School Planning Counsel
- Ana Peasgood – School Planning Counsel
B. Fruit and Vegetable Snack Program is going well, but Laurie mentioned that it'd be beneficial to have a second fridge for storage. There seems to be enough food to possible give out snacks three days.

5. New Business:

A. Discussed options for spending PAC money. Possibly consider new playground equipment in upper field to benefit both KKS and Cassie Hall.
B. Ana motioned to approach the PE Committee and see what they would like us to purchase to supplement their equipment. Nita seconded. The motion was carried.
C. Discussed starting our own milk program. Kathleen to phone Dairyland. Roylene volunteered to be Milk Co-ordinator. Kathleen to look into having a milk order for Halloween.
D. Discussed the importance of a new fridge. Nita to look into removal of the old one. Tanya to get prices for a new one. Kathleen motioned to spend $800.00 on a new fridge. Nita seconded. The motion was carried.
E. Discussed buying booster seats as soon as possible. Nita to look into prices and write a letter to the School Board requesting funding. Kathleen motioned to buy the seats. Tanya seconded. The motion was carried.

6. Principal's Report:

A. Gave an update on school programs and fun, themed days planned for the year.
B. Noted that report cards coming up with new Daily Physical Activity section.
C. Discussed budget update.
D. Requested booster seats.

7. Meeting adjourned 8:05. Next meeting November 26th, 2008.

September PAC Minutes

2008-10-30T22:22:00.000-07:00

Kiti K’Shan School
Parent Advisory Committee

Monthly Meeting Minutes

September 24th, 2008

1. Meeting commenced at 6:40 pm (In attendance: Joe Vidal, Laurie Mutschke, Roylene Richey, Nita Back, Kathleen Schulte, Connie Yasinchuk, Katie Law, Kerry Giesbrecht, Vicky Anderson, Bonnie Smith)

Laurie Mutschke made a motion to adopt the amended agenda. Roylene Richey seconded. The motion was carried.

2. Treasurer’s Report :

A. Connie Yasinchuk reported that there is $3200.00 in account.

3. DPAC Report – Via letter from Ana Peasgood:

A. Ana Peasgood put forth suggestion that there be no DPAC representative.
B. Laurie motions to keep a DPAC representative for Kiti K’Shan and to vote on a representative at the next meeting. Motion was passed.
C. Next DPAC meeting Friday, October 17, 6:00pm at School Board Office. Everyone welcome.

4. Principal’s Report:
A. Gave an update on school numbers, budgets, programs and CID activities
B. Updated school numbers, budgets, programs and CID activities
C. Asked if PAC would consider buying 30 booster
D. Asked if PAC would contribute $225.00 for buying ribbons for Run for Fun (Nancy Jay). Laurie Mutschke motioned to give the $225.00 for ribbons. Voted unanimously to contribute money. Nita to write a letter to Nancy Jay thanking her for organizing Run for Fun.

5. New Business:
A. Discussed membership to BCCPAC and the $65 membership fee. Voted unanimously to pay fee and join.
B. School Planning Counsel needs representatives. Laurie moved to vote for representatives at next PAC meeting. Nita seconded. Motion was passed. Laurie to send out emails informing people that volunteers are needed.
C. Elections of new PAC executive – Roylene nominates Laurie for Chair. Katie Law volunteers for Fundraising Coordinator. Officers for 2008/2009:
-Laurie Mutschke – Chairperson
-Kathleen Shulte – Vice Chair
-Connie Yasinchuk – Treasurer
-Nita Back – Secretary
-Katie Law – Fundraising Coordinator

6. Old Business:
A. Discussed BC Schools Fruit and Vegetable Program – Nita Back to help with program.
B. Agatha’s Snack Program - Voted unanimously to give $200.00 to Breakfast for Learning.
C. Discussed head lice issues in school - No more lice checking in school hours. Laurie to send out notices on who to contact for help with lice problems

7. Meeting adjourned 8:20. Next meeting October 22, 2008.

PAC Meeting

2008-10-16T22:16:00.000-07:00

The next PAC Meeting is October 22nd @ 6:3opm

Location: Kiti K' Shan Staff Room

Childcare Provided free of charge.

BC Schools Fruit & Vegetable Nutritional Program

2008-09-30T21:19:00.000-07:00

Kiti K'Shan is participating in the BC Schools Fruit and Vegetable Program. Nutritious snacks will be available two times per week on alternating weeks. If you would like to help out with the delivery of this program to the classrooms please call Laurie Mutschke at 615-3753.

BCCPAC Advocacy Training for all Parents

2008-09-28T00:28:00.000-07:00

BCCPAC advocacy training, Mission Possible 2

will be held at Skeena School Theatre Room

at 7 pm to 9 pm

free for parents

with light refreshments.
on OCT 2 (Thursdsay)

AND

there will be an advanced leadership advocacy workshop

on Friday Oct 3 at 9-12 am

at the School Board office.

These are free and although anyone can show up and registration is not necessary.

2008/2009 PAC Executive

2008-09-25T19:05:00.000-07:00

Please welcome the following people as the 2008/09 PAC Executive:

Laurie Mutschke - Chair & DPAC Rep.
Kathleen Schulte - Vice Chair
Nita Back - Secretary
Connie Yasinchuk - Treasurer

Thank you for volunteering your time to make our school a better place!

Welcome Back!

2008-09-04T09:24:00.000-07:00

Welcome back to another great school year at Kiti K'Shan Primary!

This year promises to be filled with fun and activity for all the students.

The Kiti K'Shan PAC holds an Annual General Meeting each Fall to elect a new executive. The role of the executive is to guide the PAC for the school year ensuring that the goals and needs of the school are met. Each parent at the school is a member of the PAC and the direction that PAC takes comes from the membership.

The AGM not only has elections, but a lot of the planning of events & activities as well as discussions regarding issues in education that parents should be aware of, take place.

If you would like your voice heard at the PAC level, we encourage you to attend the AGM and help Kiti K'Shan be a great place for all of our children to learn!

Kiti K' Shan PAC

Annual General Meeting

Date: September 24th, 2008

Time: 6:30pm

Location: Kiti K' Shan Staff room

Kiti K' Shan PAC Elections - AGM Coming Soon!

2008-07-28T13:23:00.002-07:00

The PAC has yearly elections of it's executive each Fall. These volunteers are an important part of the PAC. There are monthly meetings that the executive must attend. If you would like to be a part of the PAC executive, please come to the Annual General Meeting in September and put your name forth.

Positions and Duties are as follows:
The Chairperson shall:
1. convene and preside at membership, special and executive meetings
2. ensure that an agenda is prepared, presented and discussed with the principal ahead of time3. know the constitution and bylaws and meeting rules
4. know where to find resources to assist members
5. appoint committees where authorized to do so by the executive or membership
6. consult PAC members regularly
7. ensure that the PAC is represented in school and district activities
8. ensure that PAC activities are aimed at achieving the objectives and purposes of the organization
9. be the official spokesperson for the organization
10. be signing officers
11. submit an annual report

The Vice-Chairperson shall:
1. assume the responsibilities of the Chairperson in the Chairperson’s absence or upon request
2. assist the Chairperson in the performance of his/her duties
3. accept extra duties as required
4. be a signing officer
5. submit an annual report

The Secretary shall:
1. ensure that members are notified of meetings
2. record the minutes of general, special and executive meetings
3. keep an accurate and up-to-date copy of the Constitution and Bylaws and have copies available for members upon request
4. issue and receive correspondence on behalf of the organization
5. may be a signing officer
6. safely keep all records of the Council
7. submit an annual report

The Treasurer shall:
1. be one of the signing officers of the executive
2. receive all funds for the Council
3. disburse funds authorized by the executive or members
4. maintain an accurate record of all expenditures of the Council
5. give a report of all receipts and expenditures at all regular meetings
6. deposit all funds collected on behalf of the Council in an account at a recognized financial institution approved by the PAC
7. make books available for viewing by members upon request
8. have the books ready for inspection or audit annually
9. with the assistance of the executive, draft a tentative plan of expenditures as per Section XIV
10. ensure that another signing officer has access to the books in the event of his/her absence
11. Books remain the responsibility of the treasurer. Members may view them when accompanied by the treasurer or designated executive member.
12. Submit an annual financial statement at the annual general meeting

The School Planning Council (SPC) Representative shall:
1. attend all meetings of the school planning council (SPC)
2. be one of three elected SPC representatives
3. represent, speak & vote on behalf of the PAC at SPC meetings
4. be strong advocates for meaningful parent involvement in the school and school planning
5. take direction from the general PAC membership
6. report back to the PAC at general meetings7. Submit an annual report

The DPAC Representative shall:
1. Attend all meetings of (SD#82 DPAC) and represent, speak, and vote on behalf of the Council
2. Maintain current registration of the Council
3. Report regularly to the membership and executive on all matters relating to the DPAC
4. Seek and give input to the DPAC on behalf of the Council
5. Receive, circulate, and post DPAC newsletters, brochures, and announcements
6. Receive and act on all other communications from the DPAC
7. Liaise with other parents and DPAC representatives
8. Submit an annual report
9. If the PAC of Kiti K'Shan decides not to participate in DPAC, this position shall not be filled

Volunteer Positions

2008-07-28T13:23:00.001-07:00

The PAC at Kiti K'Shan needs dedicated volunteers to help make the school year successful. We need parents for individual events as well as ongoing programs at our school. If you have anytime that you can spare, please leave your name and telephone number at the office and we will contact you to see how you can help out.

Some of our activities and events that we need help with are:

Classroom Representatives - Help share information and find volunteers for PAC events.

Fruit & Vegetable program helpers - Deliver Fruits and veggies every second week.

Garden Club Volunteers

Science Week Volunteers

Fitness Week Volunteers

Other things we could do with more help:

Hot Lunch Program, Milk Program, Movie Nights, Parent Workshops and fundraising for more playground equipment.

Parent Handbook

2008-06-24T17:44:00.001-07:00

A Handbook For Parents

Table of Contents

Introduction page 3

Tips for Parents – Supporting Your Child’s Education page 4

Roles and Responsibilities page 5

School Personnel page 8

Tips for Parents – Preparing for Meeting with School Personnel page 12

What to Do If You Have a Concern page 14

Volunteering page 16

Creating Learning Environments page 17

Supporting Your Child’s Language Learning page 18

Limiting Televising Watching page 19

Preparing Children for Reading page 21

Tips for Reading with Your Child at Home page 23

Different Ways to Read With Your Child page 23

Helping Children Learn to write page 24

Arithmetic for Young Children page 25

Resources page 26

Introduction

Parents* play a key role in the education of their children. They are their children’s first teacher. They are also primarily responsible for giving their children values, self-confidence, and an understanding of who they are.

All parents want their children to have an education of the highest quality. They also want their children to do well in school, make friends, and have positive experiences.

It is clear that parental involvement is one of the most important factors in achieving those goals.

Parents can help their children achieve education success in numerous ways.

*The term parent used in this handbook is meant to refer to caregivers and family members as well.

v Parents can encourage their children, and show them that education is important.

v Parental involvement is school activities helps to strengthen the entire school environment.

v Parents can provide students with extra assistance, and give children support and understanding.

Parents can also provide a strong learning environment at home by reinforcing the importance of school and encouraging their children to do their best.

Parents can demonstrate the importance of reading, and ensure that homework is completed. Parents can promote regular school attendance, and help with homework and other school activities.

Parents can also help with school progress by monitoring report cards and visiting the school for parent teacher conferences.

Providing ongoing support and being involved in the education process can sometimes be difficult.

Many parents are not sure how to become active in the school, or how to best assist their children at home.

This handbook is intended to provide some general information for parents, to help them understand the structure of the school system, and how they can approach the school to ensure that their children’s needs are met.

We hope that this handbook is useful

Remember… two thirds of a person’s learning takes place before they enter school.

Tips for Parents –
Supporting Your Child’s Education

Parental involvement is one of the most important factors in student success. Parents can support their children and encourage them to succeed at school in many, many ways. Some of the things you can do include:

* Reinforcing the importance of a good education and creating a supportive environment at home;

* Regularly attending school meeting, participating in school decision-making, and getting to know your child’s teacher and the school Principal;

* Encouraging regular attendance;

* Keeping track of your child’s progress at school;

* Volunteering and helping out at the school; and

* Helping you child with learning activities and homework.

Some of the suggestions outlined in this handbook may be useful to you. You can also talk to your child’s teacher or Principal for even more ideas.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Parents play a key role in their child’s education. According to the BC School Act,

Parents are entitled to:

* Be informed of their child’s attendance, behavior, and progress in school;

* Receive annual reports respecting the general effectiveness of educational programs in the school district;

* Examine all records kept by the school board pertaining to their child;

* Be consulted regarding the placement of a child with special needs;

* Be involved in the planning, development and implementation of their child’s education program; and

* Belong to a parents’ advisory council.

In addition to those rights - - - parents should feel justified in asking

* To be informed and involved in education decisions that affect their children, including changes in the courses they are taking;

* To be consulted, and to give consent, regarding the type and nature of assessments for their child, and to be informed of the results;

* To have their concerns listened to, and responded to, promptly and respectfully;

* To have school personnel set high expectations for their children;

* To have access to personnel, such as teachers, teaching assistants, Principals, board administrators, and board trustees for information and help;

* To have concerns treated with confidentiality;

* To receive understandable progress reports; and

* To be involved in the planning process and review of their child’s Individual Education Plans (IEP’s), including signing the IEP agreement before it is used.**

**IEPs are described in more detail in A Parents Guide to Understanding the IEP Process, available at the Principal’s Office

Parents have a responsibility:

* To ensure their child’s regular attendance at school;

* To be aware of school policies, programs, rules, and routines;

* To share concerns openly and immediately with the appropriate person;

* To respond to notes, memos and requests;

* To tell their child’s teacher when things are going well, and when they are not;

* To describe concerns clearly; and

* To be reasonably patient and respectful with the people responsible for educating their child

Tips for Parents – Giving Encouragement

This activity won’t take long. Do it when your family is together, perhaps at dinnertime.

* Take turns telling each other about something good that happened to each of you during the day.

* At first, you might want to start the conversation. Or ask one of your children: “what is something nice that happened to you today? Tell us about it.”

* If a child says nothing good happened, ask, “What’s something nice you did for someone else?”

Kiti K'Shan Primary School Parent Advisory Council

This is your opportunity as parents to get involved in your child’s education. Our purpose is to … “The purpose of the Council is to act in an advisory role on any matters relating to the school. Through promotion of parental involvement, we will support, encourage and improve the quality of education and the well being of the children in Kiti K'Shan Primary School.”

Each year we have elections for the positions of Chairperson, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, DPAC Representative and the three School Planning Council Representatives.

* Chairperson's job to Chair all meetings…

* Vice President is the one who makes sure everyone knows what is happening, when how etc.

* Secretary’s mission to be responsible for minutes, newsletters, getting out the agenda, keeping files of the correspondence.

* Treasurer’s responsibility is the finances of the PAC. Doing bank deposits and reconciliation’s, reporting monthly on finances, assist with the budget and financial statements at the end of the year. Also looking after the Gaming Account.

* DPAC Representative will attend all meetings of (SD#82 DPAC) and represent, speak, and vote on behalf of the Council

* School Planning Council has become the formal acknowledgement of the importance of parental involvement in student achievement. We will elect three parents to sit on this board.
* Must be parents or guardians of students in the school

* One must be an officer of the PAC

* Cannot be a employee of any school board

* Elected by secret ballot for one year term

Please watch for the notice of when our meetings will be held so that you can plan on attending.

School Personnel

Our school includes the following personnel. It is important to remember, however, that other schools may differ. Some schools may not have all of the staff described. Also, some schools may use different terms to describe a person in a similar situation. You can ask your child’s school about the positions that exist there.

The Principal

The Principal is responsible for managing the school.

The Principal’s duties include:

* Maintaining the school’s philosophy, and ensuring that everyone understand the philosophy;

* Providing leadership for staff, parents, and students;

* Monitoring the educational programs of the school;

* Communicating with the school board or governing authority; and

* Managing the placement and general conduct of students.

You can contact the school Principal if you have questions about the school’s programs, or about your child’s situation specifically.

The Principal can help you to understand the school’s goals, and the day-to-day operations of the school.

Teachers

Classroom teachers are responsible for the progress of individual children.

The teacher’s duties usually include:

* Planning instruction for the class and for individual students;

* Evaluating and reporting on each child’s progress;

* Communicating with parents regarding their child’s education;

* Supervising and coordinating the work of teaching assistants;

* Modifying and adapting their teaching style and activities to help each student achieve success;

* Implementing the goals and objectives of the IEP; and

* Coordinating and managing information from other support personnel, such as counselors, speech therapists, social workers, etc.
Classroom teachers are key to the education of your child. They spend the most time with students when they are at school. You should be able to talk to your child’s teacher any time you have concerns. The school should organize Parent/teacher meetings at least once each year. You can also arrange to talk to your child’s teacher at other times if you have questions or if you wish to discuss any aspects of your child’s education.

Teaching Assistants

Some schools employ teaching assistants who work with classroom teachers. Teaching assistants work with individual and groups of children. They work under the supervision of classroom teachers.

The duties of teaching assistants may include:

* Helping students with communication and technical equipment;

* Classroom observations;

* Assisting individual or small groups of students with learning activities;

* Following behavior management programs;

* Following therapy programs for students with special needs;

* Helping students with personal care;

* Helping to monitor social interactions among students; and

* Collecting data and keeping records about student progress.

Support Teachers

In some schools, there are other staff who are not responsible for a classroom of students, but who provide valuable support to the classroom teacher. These support people may include the Learning Assistance Teacher or Resource Teacher. These staff may have distinct roles, or the roles may be blended. Some support teachers may be assigned to a school full-time; others may be available part-time.

Usually, the duties of support teachers include:

* Providing support or special programs to students with special needs;

* Providing adaptations and/or interventions for physical or behavioral needs;

* Helping to coordinate the team of professionals who work with children with special needs;

* Assisting classroom teachers;

* Coordinating IEPs; and

* Assisting students through transitions to new classrooms or new schools.

First Nations Support Workers

Many schools, particularly in the public school system, employ First Nations Support Workers, sometimes called First Nations Liaison Workers. Those individuals are available to help support First Nations students. They can assist First Nations parents and help to connect the school to First Nations communities. Some First Nations programs are also offered or supported by Support Workers.

Speaking with the First Nations Support Worker is often a good first step in approaching a school and learning more about the education programs it offers. First Nations Support Workers often act as advocates and can support parents in accessing information.

Other Professionals

Teachers also work with other professionals such as psychologist, speed and language pathologists, occupational therapists, childcare workers, counselors, nurses, and doctors. If a number of professionals are working with your child, someone should be assigned to coordinate the service delivery. Parents should be able to speak with that coordinator and share their questions and concerns on an ongoing basis.
Tips or Parents – Giving Encouragement

Notice when your child helps out, cooperates, or takes responsibility. Let your child know you have noticed. Use the words “I appreciate.”

* “I appreciate it when you put the trash our without being told. Thank you.
”
* “I appreciated how you played quietly while I was on the phone.”

* “I appreciated how you completed your homework without being told.”

BC PUBLIC SCHOOL BOARDS

In the public education system, the school board is responsible for:

* Establishing policies for the operation and administration of the schools within the district;

* Managing school property;

* Employing teachers, administrators and non-teaching staff;

* Establishing regulations for the functioning of students, staff, and schools; and

* Ensuring that decision-making at all levels is fair.

School boards employ a Superintendent of Schools, who is the chief administrator of the school district, and an Assistant Superintendent, who is usually assigned a specific area of responsibility such as instruction, personnel, or special education.

Parents have the right to ask for the school district’s philosophy, policies and procedures, including their First Nations programs and special education policies.

Parents also have a right to be informed of school board activities and decisions.
Parents can get involved by:

* Attending school board meetings;

* Participating at parent advisory meetings;

* Making personal or phone contact with school board members, who are called trustees;

* Reading the local paper about school board decisions;

* Asking for school district policies; and
* Talking to other parents and community members who have experience with the school board.

Tip for Parents

If you have concerns, talk to the school staff. They won’t know you have a concern if you don’t tell them.Tips for Parents –
Preparing for Meetings With School Personnel

Parents, school staff, or other professionals may call meetings. Meeting may be called for many reasons, including:

* To allow teachers and parents to meet and get to know one another;

* To discuss a child’s progress in school;

* To plan a child’s educational program;

* To prepare for a transition to new class or school and/or

* To resolve an important issue about a child.

Meetings can be intimidating for any parent. Many people feel nervous when they are going to meet with professionals about their child’s education.

But remember – some meetings may be to talk about positive aspects of your child’s education and progress.

If the meeting is being held to discuss a particular challenge, the focus should still be what is best for your child. Everyone should have your child’s best interests in mind.

Some of the following suggestions may help to make meetings between parents and school staff more successful.

Pre-Meeting Preparation

* Be clear about the purpose of the meeting. If you call a meeting, inform the people you are meeting with why you are asking to speak to them. If someone else has organized the meeting, ask for an agenda. Also clarify what, if any, decisions are to be made.

* Prepare any questions you might have. Write those questions down if that will help you. Remember to stay focused on key issues.

* Ask who will be attending the meeting, and what role they will play.

* Invite a person or a few people who can help you in the meeting. Let them know the purpose of the meeting.

* If possible, have both parents attend the meeting. This may mean asking the school staff to meet at a time that is convenient for both parents.

* Take careful notes, or ask someone to come with you to take notes.

At the Meeting

* Make sure that information presented by the professionals is clear. Ask questions to ensure you understand the information being shared.

* Try to have patience, but be assertive and firm about what your child needs.

* Seek solutions to challenges. Don’t focus on what you don’t want.

* Review the decisions made before leaving the meeting.

* Do not agree to anything you are not sure about. Take time if you need to. Agree to meet again if necessary.

* If someone else has taken minutes, ask for a copy.

* Understand the next steps before the meeting ends. Make sure you know who is responsible for actions to be taken. Clearly state who you think will undertake any follow-up.

* Ensure that everyone agrees to respect confidentiality.

Following the Meeting

* Think about whether you are satisfied with the information you received and any decisions made.

* Check how you are feeling. If feelings have arisen after the meeting, make note of them.

* Talk to a support person about how you are feeling.

* Review your notes of the meeting. Are they complete?

* Compare your notes with any other minutes taken.

* Make sure you are clear about next steps. If you are not sure, call the meeting participants and ask for clarification.

* Send a letter to the people at the meeting, outlining your understanding of the major points and next steps. Indicate what decisions you think were made. Indicate whether or not you agree. Outline who you think is responsible for follow-up. Keep a copy of the letter.

Most importantly – ask as many questions as you need before, during, and after the meeting. Make sure you have enough information to feel informed. Only agree to decisions when you feel you fully understand the issues. If you’re not comfortable with how the meeting went, talk about it with someone you trust.
What to do if you do have a concern.

Establishing good communication with your child’s teachers and Principal can usually prevent concerns from arising. Many problems that arise result from misunderstandings. If you do have a concern, it is best to begin by trying to address it at the school level first.

Some general suggestions if a concern arises include:

* Listen carefully to your child. Try to understand all points of view. Try to be logical and set aside strong feelings for the time being.

* Decide if your child can handle an issue or if your support is needed.

* Keep a record of phone calls you make, letters you send, and meetings that take place. Note the date of each.

* Think carefully about your concern. Keep an open mind about the reasons for the actions and responses of others.

If you decide that you should act upon your concern, it may be useful to take the following steps.

Meet With Your Child’s Teacher

* Set up a meeting time that is convenient for you both.

* Present your reasons for the meeting.

* Listen carefully. Take notes.

* Following the tips for meeting, outlined on pages 18 – 23.

* After the meeting, think about whether you are satisfied. Is another meeting necessary? Is progress being made?

If you do not feel that you are getting anywhere with the teacher, let the teacher know that. Offer to invite the Principal, another teacher, or a First Nations Support Worker to meet with you both.

If you are still not satisfied …

Meet With the Principal

* Bring a support person if you want to.

* State your concerns.

* List the steps you have already taken.

* State the action you would like to happen.

* Listen carefully, and take notes.

* Note any agreed upon course of action.

* Send a letter to confirm what you think is going to happen next.

* Discuss your concerns with a friend or support person.

* Decide what actions are best. Make sure you gather as much information as you can to make an informed decision.

If you are still not satisfied after the meeting with the Principal …

Talk to the Parent Advisory Council

If this is an issue that is a school issue and not just related to your student then your school Parent Advisory Council may be able to help you.

Talk to School District Personnel

In the public school system, you can ask to meet with school district personnel. Follow the same suggestions outlined above.

The BC School Act requires that each school district have an internal appeal process for decisions or non-decisions that significantly affect the education, health, or safety of a student.

Ask your school district about its appeal process. Have support people help you through that process.

Ombudsman’s Office

If the appeal process is not satisfactory, the Ombudsman’s Office can review decisions and procedures within the school system. The Office cannot make a binding decision. It can make recommendations to the Minister of Education or School District Superintendent. The Office can also help to resolve issues.

Human Rights Commission

If a school board makes a decision that you believe discriminates against your child on the basis of race or disability, you can file a complaint with the Human Rights Commission. A human rights officer will tell you if you have grounds for a complaint under the Human Rights Act, and will assist you with taking your complaint forward.

This process can be very time consuming, but there is no charge for services provided by the Commission.

Volunteering

You can contact your child’s school and ask about how you can volunteer. Some of the things you can do include those outlined below.

* Join the parent’s advisory council to help make decisions for the school.

* Read with children in the classroom.

* Share your special talents with students, including your skills in crafts, sewing, cooking, story telling, dancing, singing, carpentry, language, art, etc.

* Supervise a school field trip.

* Do one-on-one tutoring with a child.

* Exchange babysitting with another parent who wants to volunteer or attend a school meeting.

* Help the school contact other parents about upcoming activities.

* Help maintain or fix broken equipment.

* Assist in the library.

* Help with coaching a sports team.

* Join school committees.

* Attend all school performances and dinners.

* Take photos at school events.

* Help with hot lunch program.

* Help keep a bulletin board neat and updated.

* Assist language students with one-on-one conversation.

* Help with student groups.

* Help in the office, answering phones or operating equipment.

* Assist students with extra math drills.

* Type materials at home.

How to Be a Super Volunteer

* Let the teacher or school staff know if you can’t do what you had planned to do. They are counting on you to be there.

* Read the school handbook so you are familiar with school rules.

* Attend any orientation sessions.

* If you see something that you do not understand, ask the teacher about it after class.

* Keep everything you see and hear confidential.

* Do not make negative comments about anyone in front of children.

Creating Learning Environments

The following characteristics have been identified as effective ways to support school success.

* Establishing a Daily Family Routine: providing time and a quiet place for study, assigning responsibility for household chores, being firm about times to get up and go to bed, and having dinner together.

* Monitoring Out-of-School Activities: setting limits on television, arranging for after school activities and supervised care.

* Modeling the Value of Learning and Hard Work: communicating regularly through conversation, reading at home, visiting the library, demonstrating that working hard is important.

* Expressing High But Realistic Expectations: setting goals that are appropriate for your child’s age and maturity, recognizing special talents, informing friends and family about your child’s successes.

* Encouraging Your Child’s Development in School: showing interest in your child’s progress at school, helping your child with homework, discussing the value of a good education, talking about possible career options, staying in touch with your child’s teacher and school staff.

* Reading and Writing Regularly: reading together, listening to your child read, talking about what is being read, telling stories, writing letters, lists and messages.

* Using Community Resources for Family Needs: enrolling your child in sports programs, introducing your child to role models, using community services as needed.

Supporting Your Child’s First Nations
Language and Culture Learning

First Nations communities and families can play a key role in promoting the revitalization of First Nations languages. Many First Nations students are now learning their language in school. Parents can support this learning in a variety of ways.

For parents who speak their language …

* Make an effort to use your language at mealtime or on other regular occasions during the day. Try to increase its use over time, moving from words to phrases, and using it for longer periods of time. This will take patience and practice. Don’t give up!!

* Help out in the school and in your community to support events that promote your language and culture.

Parents who don’t speak their language can also help tremendously.

* Use whatever knowledge you have. Use as many words as you know, and let your child’s learning inspire you to learn more words and phrases.

* Attend a language class.

* Encourage someone who does speak your language, such as a grandparent or other family member, to speak with your child.

* Try to find forms of entertainment that integrate your language. Get together with other families with the same idea. Make learning your language fun.

* Spend less time watching TV, and more time visiting with Elders.

* Participate in events in the school and your community that promote your language and culture.

* Let your child know you support the language program. Be enthusiastic and encouraging.

Remember to set realistic goals, be patient with both yourself and your child, and celebrate the positive steps you both take in learning and promoting your language!!

Limiting Television Watching

Research shows that children who spend more than ten hours a week in front of the TV do worse in reading than those who are limited in their TV watching. Here are some ideas to help you limit your child’s TV watching.

* Give your child a few TV tickets every week, each one good for 30 minutes of television. When the tickets are gone, the TV goes off.

* Plan your child’s TV viewing. Write down the programs each child will watch. This helps your child learn to watch programs, not just television.

* Turn off the TV one day a week. Plan other activities. Go for a walk. Read a book together.

* Try disconnecting cable. Children who can’t find anything to watch on TV will choose to do something else.

* Use money saved from the cable bill to do other fun things, such as bowling, ice-skating, or swimming.

* Buy a stopwatch. Encourage your children to time commercials during a half hour show. Talk about what is being sold in those commercials.

* Ask everyone in the family to give up one show. Talk about what show you will give up, and how you will use that time. Keep track for one month. See if you really miss the TV show.

These ideas can also apply to computer games and too much Internet use.

Helping Your Child Select Courses

It is important to remember that the courses children take in early grades may effect their options later. For example, in order to enroll in many senior level courses like English 12 and Math 12, students must be enrolled in the right courses in earlier grades.

Parents have a right to know what courses their children are taking. They should also be informed before there are any changes in those courses.

Course selection is very important. Students must take a number of specific courses in order to receive a Dogwood Diploma. Parents should find out whether their children are taking those courses. If students are not taking the required courses, they may receive the British Columbia School Completion Certificate instead of the Dogwood.

But remember …many post-secondary programs require the Dogwood Diploma for entrance, and will not accept the School Completion Certificate.

It is also important to know if your child is on a modified program. Students on a modified program will graduate with School Completion Certificate, not the Dogwood. This may affect their future educational opportunities.

If you have questions about the courses your child is taking, talk to the school counselor or teacher. Ask whether your child will be eligible for senior level courses later. Find out whether your child will be graduating with the Dogwood Diploma.

You may also want to talk to a counselor or teacher about help with career planning. May jobs require specific post-secondary programs. To enter those programs, specific courses are needed. Post-Secondary institutes will also consider students’ grades before accepting them. Parents should therefore always encourage their children to do their best and maintain the highest grade point average they can.

It is important that students find out early what courses they will need in order to get the further education they want. English 12 and Math 12 are two common requirements. Students should work toward those courses to allow them a range of options later.

A great deal of information is available to help parents and students with career planning. You may want to ask the school Principal, a teacher, or a counselor to help you in this area.

For people who have access to the Internet, the BC Ministry of Education provides a range of resources to help with career planning for their children. You may want to look at www.bced.gov.bc.ca/careers/planning for some ideas.

The First Nations Schools Association (FNSA) also published Career Planning: Choosing Courses to Keep Your Options Open to help with this task. Call the FNESC/FNSA at (604) 925-6087 if you would like a copy of those materials.

Preparing Children For Reading

Reading to your children, no matter what their age, is one of the most important things you can do. Showing then that you read is also key. Whether you are chatting, pointing out signs as you drive, reading a menu, or reading the grocery list, it is important for your child to see the importance of reading.

There are also games and activities that you can do at home with your preschoolers and early elementary children that promote reading.

Do jigsaw puzzles. Children will learn to look at shapes and see where pieces fit, just as they will later learn to recognize words by their shapes.

Play memory games

Use six pairs of playing cards. Turn them face down on a table, and then turn two up, trying to discover pairs.

Talk about the sequence of your child’s day, asking what she did first, second and so on.

Ask your child to put away five grocery items. When done, ask him to name the five things that he put away.

Put 5 to 10 items on the kitchen table. Allow your child to look at them for 30 seconds. Then get your child to turn around. Remove one of them. Does your child know which one? Or cover the items and ask your child to name as many as he can.

Categorize

Give your child a box of five or ten buttons. Ask her to put them into families, using categories such as size, color, number of holes, and rough or smooth edge. This can be done with nuts, crayons, paper clips, etc.

Write the work “animal” at the top of a page. Ask your child to name as many animals as he can, while you write them down. Look at the list and put them into families, such as big or small, domestic or wild, fur or feathers, etc.

When going on walks, look at categories of things, such as things made of cement, things made of wood, things that are blue, animals, plants, etc.

Create patterns

Arrange toothpicks in a specific pattern and then ask you child to copy your pattern. Next let your child create a pattern and you copy it.

Thread beads on a string in a specific pattern. Then encourage your child to copy your pattern.

Use nesting blocks or varying lengths of paper towel rolls. Get your child to put them in order from longest to shortest.

Read Anything

Reading anything with your child is useful – store signs, food labels, traffic signs …Talk with your child

Ask her what she learned today.

Talk about your own day, including
good and bad parts.

Talk about your upcoming day, showing
your child that you plan things in an orderly fashion.

Play Junior Scrabble

Rule of Thumb

* Have your child read one page of a book aloud and have him hold up one finger each time he does not know a word. If he holds up all of the fingers on one hand before the end of the page, the book is probably too hard for him to read alone.

Confidence is the Key to Success

§ Every child learns differently. Don’t compare your child to others.
§ Be your child’s cheerleader and advocate
§ Focus on the positive.
§ Avoid boring drills.
§ Discuss any concerns your child has about school.
§ Have your child’s eyesight and hearing tested.

Tips For Reading With Your Child at Home-
Pause, Prompt and Praise

If your child makes a mistake or gets muddled while reading with you at home …

… pause …

Let your child try to solve the problem alone. If she still can’t read the word, then …

… prompt …

by saying …
“Try that again.” or “Read to the end of the sentence. What word makes sense?”

If your child loses the meaning while reading, stop and say …
“Listen to what you said. Does that sound right? Did that make sense?”

After two unsuccessful tries, give your child the correct word. And remember …

Always praise your child.

Different Ways to Read With Your Child

§ Read a Book to Your Child. Children learn well from being read to. Re-reading favorite books over and over helps them to recognize letters and sentences.

§ Read Together in Unison. You can read together, like you are singing. Reading in unison helps when your child wants to read a book that is too hard.

§ Take Turns Reading the Same Passage to Each Other. Read together, using a "my turn, your turn" process. Relax – memorizing is the beginning of the reading process for younger children.
Avoid Power Struggles

It’s o.k. to stop reading if it is too hard one night. BUT … Try again tomorrow.
§ Read Silently First, Then Out Loud.

Or … your child may simply read to you.

Use whatever method works!!
Helping Children Learn to Write

Why is writing important?

§ Writing helps us discover new ways of thinking.

§ Writing shows us what we know, and helps us learn at the same time.

§ Writing organizes and extends our thinking.

§ Writing is important for most jobs and for life skills.

§ Writing can be a creative and satisfying activity.

§ Writing helps us to become better readers.

How can I help my child become a better writer?

Encourage writing outside of school assignments.

Find purposes for writing, such as thank you letters to relatives, birthday party invitations, letters to the editor, and writing contests for kids.

Consider writing as gifts. Children can give greeting cards or handmade books.

Give your child an attractive Journal or Diary of his own.

Write with your child and show or read your writing to her.

Realize that writing is not something that is done all at once.

§ Writing is developed slowly over time.

§ All writers address aspects of their writing in stages.

Arithmetic For Young Children

Put up a calendar and check off each day. Record the weather. Draw a sun, cloud, raindrop, kite (for windy), or a snowflake.

Say the days of the week and months of the year whenever possible.

Count the cups on the table, the windows in the bedroom, or the chairs around the table. Take any opportunity to count things around the house.

Give your child an opportunity to help set the table. Talk about how each person gets the same set of things – a fork, knife, spoon, plate, cup, etc. Some children enjoy making a placemat out of a sheet of paper and tracing the plate, glasses and cutlery so they know where each item goes.

As you help your child get dressed, count the buttons as they are done up. Talk about the matched socks, and one sock for each foot, and one shoe for each foot.

Arrange the shoes in a closet from smallest to largest. Is anything else at home arranged from smallest to largest?

Look for patterns in your home. Check out floor tiles, ceiling tiles, wallpaper, or clothes. Make a pattern using blocks in a row or beads on a string. See if your child can copy it. Start with three or four items and then add more. Let your child make a pattern and see if you can copy it.

Bake with your child. First read through the recipe and get all the ingredients out on the counter. Talk about measurement. Let your child measure out one teaspoon or tablespoon, one half, or one-quarter cup. Let her sift and stir.

Sometimes when your child is skipping or throwing or bouncing the ball, count our loud how many times.

Play board games with your child.

Teach and play simple card games such as Fish, Snap, and Old Maid.

When driving in the car, look for, talk about, or count different shaped signs, buildings, clouds, or cars. Some children like to take a pad of paper and divide a sheet into two columns. They make a tick for each red car or blue car. At the end of specified time period, they can add them up.

Resources

Kiti K'Shan PAC has adopted this Handbook from one used by the GW Carlson PAC in SD#81 produced by First Nations Education Steering Committee. Thank you to both groups for putting together a great resource for parents!

We would like to acknowledge several resources that were used in the preparation of this handbook, including the following:

√ British Columbia Association for Community Living. 1999. Inclusive Education. A Parent Handbook. Vancouver, BC.

√ Dinkmeyer, Sr., D., G. D. McKay, and D. Dinkmeyer, Jr. 1997. The Parent’s Handbook. Systematic Training for Effective Parenting.

√ The First Nations Schools Association. 1999. First Nations Schools: Reflecting Communities Through Governance Structures, Parental Involvement Programs, and School Calendars.

√ The One to One Children’s Literacy Program. 2000. Stress Free Reading At Home. A Handbook for Parents.

Constitution & Bylaws

2008-06-24T17:44:00.000-07:00

Kiti K'Shan Primary School

Parent Advisory Council

Constitution
&
Bylaws

January 2008

School District No. 82, Coast Mountains

CONSTITUTION

SECTION I NAME
SECTION II PURPOSES
SECTION III DISSOLUTION
SECTION IV INTERPRETATION OF TERMS

BYLAWS

SECTION V MEMBERSHIP IN A PAC
SECTION VI MEETINGS
SECTION VII QUORUM AND VOTING
SECTION VIII ELECTION OF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
SECTION IX TERM OF OFFICE
SECTION X EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
SECTION XI DUTIES OF OFFICERS
SECTION XII CODE OF ETHICS
SECTION XIII COMMITTEES
SECTION XIV FINANCES
SECTION XV CONSTITUTION & BYLAW AMENDMENTS
SECTION XVI REMOVAL OF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
SECTION XVII PROPERTY IN DOCUMENTS

CONSTITUTION

SECTION I NAME
The name of the Association shall be the KITI K'SHAN PRIMARY SCHOOL PARENT ADVISORY COUNCIL.

The Council will operate as a non-profit organization with no financial benefit.

The business of the council shall be unbiased towards race, religion, gender or politics.

SECTION II PURPOSES OF THE PAC
The purpose of the Council is to act in an advisory role on any matters relating to the school. Through promotion of parental involvement, we will support, encourage and improve the quality of education and the well being of the children in Kiti K'Shan Primary School.

1. To advise parents’ on any matter relating to the school – programs policies, plans, and activities.
2. Provide a forum for discussion of educational programs, services and activities.
3. To make recommendations to the Principal on school programs and services.
4. To assist parents in accessing the system and to provide advocacy support for individual children and their parents.
5. To organize PAC events, in conjunction with the Principal, to encourage and involve parents in school activities that support the school’s goals and programs.
6. To work with parents, students, staff and community members to provide a healthy, safe and supportive environment.
7. Promote a spirit of cooperation within the school community.
8. To participate in the work of the school planning council through the PAC’s elected representatives

SECTION III DISSOLUTION
1. In the event of dissolution or winding up of the Council, and after payment of all debts and costs of dissolution or winding up, the assets and remaining funds of the Council shall be distributed to another parent advisory council or councils in School District No. 82, Coast Mountains having purposes and objectives similar to those of the Council, and which meet all requirements of the British Columbia Gaming Commission, as the members of the Council may determine at the time of dissolution or winding up. This clause shall be unalterable.

2. In the event of dissolution of the Council, all records of the organization shall be placed under the jurisdiction of School District No. 82, Coast Mountains in the person of the principal of the school. In the person of the Secretary-Treasurer of the school district.

SECTION IV INTERPRETATION OF TERMS
Ø Parents – the parent/parents or guardian of a child or children in School District No. 82, Coast Mountains
Ø Parent Advisory Council – “the Council” any organized group of parents recognized under the British Columbia School Act.
Ø School Planning Council – “SPC” three parent representatives, principal and one teaching member working together on school growth plans.
Ø School – any public elementary or secondary educational institution within School District No. 82, Coast Mountains
Ø District – School District No. 82, Coast Mountains
Ø SD# 82 – School District No. 82, Coast Mountains.
Ø BCCPAC - British Columbia Confederation of Parent Advisory Councils
Ø DPAC – the Coast Mountains District Parent Advisory Council, which is recognized by the Board of Trustees of School District No. 82, to be the umbrella group of Parent Advisory Councils formed or to be formed in each school.
Ø Community Organizations – groups, which demonstrate an interest in education and are not already, included in the scope of this constitution.

BYLAWS

SECTION V MEMBERSHIP IN THE PAC
All parents and guardians of students registered at Kiti K'Shan Primary School, excluding those parents and guardians who are School District #82 employees, are voting members of the Parent Advisory Council. The parents and guardians who are employees of School District #82 may be non-voting members.
1. Administration and staff (teaching and non-teaching) of Kiti K'Shan Primary School may be non-voting members of the Council, except as otherwise provided herein.
2. Members of the school community who are not parents of students currently enrolled in the system may be invited to become non-voting members of the Council.
3. At no time shall the Council have more non-voting than voting members.
4. Any parent that is an employee of the school board or Ministry of Education must declare and refrain from participation in any discussion when any potential conflict of interest or bias issues arise at a meeting.
5. Yearly membership of the Kiti K'Shan Primary PAC in School District #82 DPAC and BCCPAC shall be voted upon at the Annual General Meeting.

The Council Member should:

Ø Attend as many Council meetings as possible.
Ø Become knowledgeable about the educational programs and resources of the school.
Ø Promote positive attitudes about the school and it’s educational programs and services.
Ø Support the Council’s purposes and objectives.

The Principal Should:

Ø Consult on the operation and organization of the Council.
Ø Encourage the participation of parents in the Council.
Ø Assist in the development of Council objectives.
Ø Provide information to the Council on the general activities of the school and keep the Council informed of the current developments within the school as they relate to the Council’s scope of participation in school related matters.
Ø Attend Council meetings or designate another staff member to attend.

SECTION VI MEETINGS
1. Meetings will be conducted efficiently and with fairness to the members present.
2. There shall be an Annual General Meeting (AGM) for the purpose of election of officers held in September of each year. Notice shall be sent to all parents and the Principal (7) days prior to the meeting.
3. Calendar of regular meetings for the school year shall be set after the elections at the AGM and shall be sent home to all parents, principal. This will serve as notice to all members of all regular meetings of the Council.
4. Regular meetings shall be held not less than eight times per year, one of those being the AGM.
5. Executive meetings may be held anytime or place as deemed necessary. The purpose of executive meetings is to carry on business between regular meetings. Decisions made at an executive meeting will be ratified at the next regular meeting.
6. If procedural problems arise on an issue not covered in these bylaws, Robert’s Rules of Order (edition) shall be used to resolve the issue.
7. A Council meeting shall not be a forum for the discussion of individual issues relating to school personnel, students, parents, or other individual members of the school community.
8. The Chairperson at the discretion of the Chairperson may call special meetings.
9. The Chairperson at the written request of four (4) members shall call special meetings. The written request shall contain the reasons for the meeting and only that business may be dealt with at the special meeting.
10. Special meetings may be called by the Chairperson to include voting members only. A report of the special meeting shall be made to the non-voting members.
11. Notice of a special meeting shall be sent to all parents and the Principal at least seven (7) days prior to a special meeting, except in the case of urgency as determined by the Chairperson, and shall contain a statement of the general nature of the business to be dealt with at the special meeting.
12. The inadvertent omission to give notice of a meeting or the failure to receive a notice by a parent does not invalidate proceedings at that meeting.
13. Each member may attend any meeting of the Council.
14. The Chairperson may postpone a vote for one meeting to allow additional participation by members.
15. Minutes of the previous meeting shall be prepared by the secretary of the Council for approval at the next regular meeting. Minutes shall be distributed to all members following the meeting.

SECTION VII QUORUM & VOTING
A. QUORUM
The voting members present at any duly called regular meeting shall constitute a quorum, except as otherwise provided herein.

B. VOTING
1. Each member present at a meeting of the Council shall be entitled to one vote except as otherwise provided herein.
2. Unless otherwise provided, questions arising at any meeting shall be decided by a simple majority vote (50% plus 1).
3. In the case of a tie vote, the motion is defeated.
4. Members must vote personally on all matters; voting by proxy shall not be permitted.
5. Voting shall be done by a show of hands, with the exception of the election of officers, which must be by secret ballot. A vote shall be taken to destroy the ballots after the election.
6. The election of representatives to the School Planning Council must be by secret ballot.
7. Motion may be made by Council to hold a vote by secret ballot when deemed appropriate by the Council.

SECTION VIII ELECTION OF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
1. The executive officers shall be elected by the voting members at the Annual General Meeting. Only one executive member per term may be held by a parent/guardian that is an employee of the school district. This person may not hold the Chair, Vice Chair or SPC position and they will not have a vote regardless of position as per Section 5, Membership in the PAC. No elected official of the school district or Ministry of Education shall hold an executive position.
2. In the event of a vacancy on the executive during the year, the executive shall appoint a new officer at the next regular meeting (an individual who has been nominated by the PAC) who shall hold office until the next election.
3. If an SPC or DPAC representative resigns or ceases to hold office for any other reason, the membership may elect an eligible member of the Council to fill the vacancy for the remainder of the term. Such election must be by secret ballot.
4. Three parent/guardian representatives to the School Planning Council shall be elected annually from parents of students enrolled in the School, who are not employees of any school district. One of the representatives must be an elected officer of the Parent Advisory Council. The other two (or either one of them) may also be PAC executive members.
5. The election of representatives to the SPC and DPAC must be by secret ballot.

SECTION IX TERM OF OFFICE
1. The term of office shall commence immediately following election at the AGM and shall be until the next AGM.
2. No person may hold any one position for more than four consecutive years.
3. No person may hold more than one elected executive position at any one time.
4. The term of office for School Planning Council representatives shall be one year.

SECTION X EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
1. A board of elected officers shall manage the affairs of the Council.
2. The Executive Officers may be as follows:
Chair
Vice-Chairperson
Secretary
Treasurer
School Planning Council Representative (1)
DPAC Representative
3. Only one executive member per term may be held by a parent/guardian that is an employee of the school district. This person may not hold the position of President, Vice President, School Planning Council Representative or DPAC Representative.

SECTION XI DUTIES OF OFFICERS
The Chairperson shall:

1. convene and preside at membership, special and executive meetings
2. ensure that an agenda is prepared, presented and discussed with the principal ahead of time
3. know the constitution and bylaws and meeting rules
4. know where to find resources to assist members
5. appoint committees where authorized to do so by the executive or membership
6. consult PAC members regularly
7. ensure that the PAC is represented in school and district activities
8. ensure that PAC activities are aimed at achieving the objectives and purposes of the organization
9. be the official spokesperson for the organization
10. be signing officers
11. submit an annual report

The Vice-Chairperson shall:

1. assume the responsibilities of the Chairperson in the Chairperson’s absence or upon request
2. assist the Chairperson in the performance of his/her duties
3. accept extra duties as required
4. be a signing officer
5. submit an annual report
6. The Secretary shall:

1. ensure that members are notified of meetings
2. record the minutes of general, special and executive meetings
3. keep an accurate and up-to-date copy of the Constitution and Bylaws and have copies available for members upon request
4. issue and receive correspondence on behalf of the organization
5. may be a signing officer
6. safely keep all records of the Council
7. submit an annual report

The Treasurer shall:

1. be one of the signing officers of the executive
2. receive all funds for the Council
3. disburse funds authorized by the executive or members
4. maintain an accurate record of all expenditures of the Council
5. give a report of all receipts and expenditures at all regular meetings
6. deposit all funds collected on behalf of the Council in an account at a recognized financial institution approved by the PAC
7. make books available for viewing by members upon request
8. have the books ready for inspection or audit annually
9. with the assistance of the executive, draft a tentative plan of expenditures as per Section XIV
10. ensure that another signing officer has access to the books in the event of his/her absence
11. Books remain the responsibility of the treasurer. Members may view them when accompanied by the treasurer or designated executive member.
12. Submit an annual financial statement at the annual general meeting

The School Planning Council (SPC) Representative shall:

1. attend all meetings of the school planning council (SPC)
2. be one of three elected SPC representatives
3. represent, speak & vote on behalf of the PAC at SPC meetings
4. be strong advocates for meaningful parent involvement in the school and school planning
5. take direction from the general PAC membership
6. report back to the PAC at general meetings
7. Submit an annual report

The DPAC Representative shall:

1. Attend all meetings of (SD#82 DPAC) and represent, speak, and vote on behalf of the Council
2. Maintain current registration of the Council
3. Report regularly to the membership and executive on all matters relating to the DPAC
4. Seek and give input to the DPAC on behalf of the Council
5. Receive, circulate, and post DPAC newsletters, brochures, and announcements
6. Receive and act on all other communications from the DPAC
7. Liaise with other parents and DPAC representatives
8. Submit an annual report
9. If the PAC of Kiti K'Shan decides not to participate in DPAC, this position shall
not be filled

SECTION XII CODE OF ETHICS
A parent who accepts a position as a PAC Executive Member:

1. Upholds the constitution and bylaws, policies and procedures of the electing body.
2. Performs her/his duties with honesty and integrity.
3. Works to ensure that the well being of students is the primary focus of all decisions.
4. Respects the rights of all individuals.
5. Takes directions from the members, ensuring representation processes are in place.
6. Encourages and supports parents and students with individual concerns to act on their own behalf and provides information on the process for taking forward concerns.
7. Works to ensure those issues are resolved through due process.
8. Strives to be informed and only passes on information that is reliable.
9. Respects all confidential information.
10. Supports public education.
11. Sign and submit for record the Statement of Understanding.

SECTION XIII COMMITTEES
1. Standing and ad hoc committees shall be formed when necessary.
2. Committees are responsible to the executive members.
3. The PAC executive may appoint members to committees annually.
4. The membership or executive may elect or appoint a member (a representative of a Council member) who is not an employee or elected official of School District No. 82 or the Ministry of Education to represent the Council on an external committee or to an external organization.
5. The representative will report to the membership or executive as required.

SECTION XIV FINANCES
1. Council may raise and spend money in furtherance of its’ purposes and objectives.
2. A tentative plan of expenditures will be drawn up by the executive and presented for approval to the Council.
3. Any fundraising activities by the PAC, which would be sent home through the students, will require prior approval of the principal.
4. Expenditures over $100.00 must receive the prior approval of the members at a regular or special meeting. The hot lunch coordinator shall have the authority to exceed the $100.00 expenditure limit. This is subject to PAC approval at the first regular meeting of the school year.
5. All funds of the organization will be kept on deposit in a bank or financial institution registered under the Bank Act.
6. The executive shall name at least three signing officers for banking and legal documents. Two signatures will be required on all of these documents.
7. A Treasurer’s Report shall be presented at each general meeting.
8. Members at a regular meeting may appoint an auditor.

SECTION XV CONSTITUTION AND BYLAW AMENDMENTS
1. Except as provided in the constitution, the members may, in consultation with the Principal, and by a majority of not less than 75% of the vote’s cast; amend the constitution and bylaws of the organization.
2. Written notice of a meeting at which a resolution will be considered to amend the bylaws shall be given to all members in writing at least fourteen days before the meeting. The amendments will be ratified at the next regular meeting.
3. A constitution or bylaw amendment shall be dated, signed and forwarded to the School Board Office for safekeeping.

SECTION XVI REMOVAL OF AN EXECUTIVE MEMBER
1. The members may, by a majority of not less than 75% of votes cast, remove an executive member before the expiration of his/her term of office, and may elect a successor to complete the term.
2. Written notice via confidential sealed envelope referring only to member's title and no name, specifying the intention to make a motion to remove the executive member shall be given to the members not less than 14 days before the meeting.

SECTION XVII PROPERTY IN DOCUMENTS
All documents, records, minutes, correspondence or other papers kept by a member, executive member or committee member in connection with the organization shall be deemed to be property of the organization, and shall be turned over to the president when the member, executive member or committee member ceases to perform the task to which the papers relate.

Adopted by Kiti K'Shan Primary School PAC at Terrace, British Columbia on

January 30th, 2008