February 23, 2026
Scholastic Book Fair
The countdown is on! We are excited to announce that Edith Cavell will be hosting another Book Fair. Please visit this link for more information: https://bookfairs.scholastic.ca/bf/edithcavellschool2
February 20, 2026
Mental Health Webinar Series for Families
Hello Families,
The DSBN is excited to share a valuable opportunity for your child's well-being. School Mental Health Ontario is offering a free, four-part webinar series as part of the By Your Side Learning Hub, designed to help parents and caregivers navigate important topics to support their children's mental health. This expert-led series will provide insights and practical strategies on:
1. Balanced Device Use (March 5 at 7 pm)
2. Vaping (April 10 at 12 pm)
3. Body Image (May 7 at 7 pm)
4. Anxiety (June 5 at 12 pm)
REGISTER TODAY
In addition, the Canadian Centre for Child Protection is offering an online safety webinar, based on their Parenting in the Online World Brochure. During this session, families will learn about concerning trends in the online sexual exploitation of children and how to talk with their children about online safety.
1. Parenting in the Online World (April 15 at 8:30 pm)
REGISTER TODAY
We encourage all parents and caregivers to participate in these informative webinars. Together, we support the well-being of our children and communities.
February 9, 2026
Breakfast Club
The Breakfast Club is up and running - can't wait to see you there!
Krispy Kreme Fundraiser
All orders are due at the office on Feb 16th. We are very thankful to all families who have participated, as these proceeds will support all students at Edith Cavell!
February 3, 2026
School Crossing Guard Program - a message from the City of St. Catharines
Like all workplaces in the province, employees of the City of St. Catharines have the right to refuse unsafe work, and this right is extended to our Adult School Crossing Guards. Accordingly, please be advised that, in times of extreme weather, the City of St. Catharines cannot ensure coverage at designated crossing guard locations if the right to refuse unsafe work is exercised by some or all of our Guard staff. Extreme weather includes, but is not limited to, temperatures colder than -30 Celsius or wind chill factors below -35 Celsius; snow amounts more than 25 cm in one snow event; significant freezing rain; and violent thunderstorms. Safe working conditions include crossing locations that have been cleared of snowbanks and/or ice and snow and have been treated with salt. Furthermore, when school bus transportation services within the City of St. Catharines are cancelled due to extreme weather, the city’s Adult School Crossing Guard program may also be cancelled for the day. We trust that this information will be of assistance in understanding any potential challenges with extreme weather / safe working conditions. The City of St. Catharines will always endeavour to provide safe, reliable Crossing Guard services whenever possible.
~Tera Bourbonnais, Crossing Guard Supervisor
February 2, 2026
Food Donation Day
Our Edith Cavell Food Donation Day on January 31 was a success. Thank you to DSMAH Children's Charities for their ongoing and continued support of our families. We greatly appreciate the variety of food that is provided on these special days!
January 26 - Feb 9, 2026
Breakfast Club
We are updating the Breakfast Club. Due to the changes we are making, we will need to pause on students accessing Breakfast Club until Feb 9. Thank you very much for your understanding.
January 19, 2026
Mad Science
Mad Science club starts every Monday for those who have registered and completed payment for this STEM opportunity.
January 5, 2026
REMINDER
Happy New Year and welcome back to school. Please make sure that your child(ren) have warm winter gear and the weather continues to fluctuate.
December 1, 2025
Kindergarten Registration
January is Kindergarten Registration Month at the DSBN!
Families with children turning four in 2026 are invited to visit www.dsbn.org/kindergarten to learn more about Kindergarten programming and online registration. Families can also contact our school office to book a time for in-person registration.
Open Houses are in May
We look forward to hosting our new Edith Cavell kinders and their parents/guardians at an Open House on Wednesday, May 6th, 2025, from 4:00 – 6:00 pm. Further details about our Open House will be emailed directly to registered families in late April.
Winter Family Craft Night
On Tuesday, December 16th, Edith Cavell's families are invited to an evening of holiday crafting and fun. Join us as we make a winter holiday craft, view some winter-themed student art and enjoy some hot chocolate and cookies.
Activities begin at 5:00 pm.
IF YOU ARE INTERESTED, PLEASE SEND IN THE FORM THAT WAS SENT HOME WITH YOUR CHILD'S REPORT CARD.
November 23, 2025
Inclement Weather
There are times in Niagara when weather conditions are so poor that we must cancel student transportation, and/or close schools to preserve the safety of students and staff.
The decision to cancel transportation and/or close schools is not taken lightly; a variety of factors are considered when making this choice. To learn more about how these decisions are made, please go to https://www.dsbn.org/inclementweather.
Transportation Cancellations: Information about transportation delays and cancellations is posted to: https://portal.nsts.ca/Cancellations.aspx. The BusPlanner Delays App is a free mobile application that can be downloaded and provides real-time “push” notifications for delays and cancellations related to a specific school or route, directly to your mobile device. When transportation is cancelled, every effort is made to communicate the decision by 6:00 am on the day of the cancellation. There are times when transportation is cancelled, but schools remain open. If, on those days, you feel it is best for your child to stay home, please report your child’s absence https://dsbn.org/safearrival/ so we can make sure they are safe at home.
School Closures: When the decision to close schools is made, it refers to all schools: both in-person and remote/virtual learners. Every effort will be made to share school closure information before 6:00 am on the day of the school closure. You will find information on dsbn.org, all school websites, DSBN social media, and local media share the news widely as well.
Elementary Schools: Optional Snow Day activities for Kindergarten to Grade 8 will be available on the DSBN website on days when schools are closed due to inclement weather.
Childcare: Decisions regarding whether childcare services will operate on school closure days are at the discretion of each individual childcare operator. Childcare operators will notify affected families directly if they make the decision to close.
Please ensure that your child brings appropriate clothing to keep warm as the temperature is starting to drop.
Snow - IMPORTANT
In an ongoing effort to ensure the safety of our students on the yard during the winter months, we must eliminate the throwing, tossing, or kicking of snow. The students are well aware of this rule through class discussions and the daily announcements. Should a student be reported to be throwing, tossing or kicking snow by a yard supervisor, their name is recorded at the office, consequences will be given, and a note will go home for families to sign. Please review with your child(ren) the dangers of throwing, kicking or tossing snow. There are many times when the expectations at home differ from those at school, so please have the conversation with your child(ren) about what the expectations are at Edith Cavell.
November 17, 2025
Community Resources for Families
Salvation Army St. Catharines Christmas Food Hamper Program includes non-perishable food items as well as a small gift voucher to a local supermarket. The voucher is intended to assist the recipient in purchasing a turkey or other meat products. Gifts are provided for children.
Registration is held in November and can be done by calling 905-935-4804. Hampers are distributed the week before Christmas.
Christmas Hamper Program – Salvation Army St. Catharines
Community Care of St. Catharines Christmas Program includes presents/food/gift cards.
Registration opened on November 3rd. To apply, call 905-685-1340. Phones are answered between 9:00 am -11:30 am and between 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm. Phone lines will be busy, so you may need to continue to call until you are connected.
Christmas Program | Community Care
November 16, 2025
Bully Awareness and Prevention Week: "The Power of Good"
Next week, our school will be recognizing Bully Awareness and Prevention Week. Throughout the week, students will participate in activities and discussions centred on our theme, "The Power of Good." Together, we'll explore how each of us can harness our power for good to make our school a safe, caring, and inclusive place for everyone.
We encourage families to continue the conversation at home by talking about the difference between bullying, mean moments and conflict.
- Bullying is one-sided, happens over time, is on purpose and is hurtful. There is an imbalance of power. It can make someone feel unsafe, left out, or powerless. When this happens, students are encouraged to speak up and ask an adult for help.
- A mean moment happens one time, is on purpose, and is hurtful. Everyone can have a mean moment - what matters is recognizing it, apologizing and making it right. Often, bullying can be confused with mean moments.
- Conflict involves both people, happens sometimes, is on purpose and can be hurtful. Conflict is a normal part of relationships and can often be solved by talking, listening and finding a fair solution. Often, bullying can be confused with conflict.
Understanding these differences helps students know when to seek help and how to use their Power of Good to respond with kindness and respect.
Cobbs Bread Card Fundraiser
The last day to order Cobbs Bread Cards to support Edith Cavell is Friday, November 21, 2025. Please consider supporting Edith by purchasing a Cobbs Bread Card - use it for your family or for a holiday present!
DON'T FORGET
On Tuesday, November 18th, 2025, from 6-7:30 pm, Edith Cavell is hosting a Parent Workshop: “Funding and Supports for Children with Physical and/or Developmental Disabilities.” Please join us! If you plan on attending, please reach out to the office so that we can ensure we have pizza ordered for you!
If you prefer to join from home here is the Registration Link
November 13, 2025
Smoothie Day
Our first Smoothie Day was a success! Thank you to all who participated.
November 12, 2025
PARENT WORKSHOP: Funding and Supports for Children with Physical and/or Developmental Disabilities
ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18th
The Mental Health & Well-Being and Special Education Teams are offering the caregiver workshop: “Funding and Supports for Children with Physical and/or Developmental Disabilities.” This workshop provides valuable information about funding, supports, resources, and grants available within the community for individuals aged 0-12+ with physical and/or developmental disabilities.
Parents and guardians will gain an understanding of:
- Available services within the community,
- Eligibility criteria for support,
- The process for accessing these services, and
- Practical tips for connecting with community service providers.
Edith Cavell will be hosting this event from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm in our Makerspace. ALL ARE WELCOME. Our Social Workers and Learning Resources Teachers will be available to support with any questions. Please see the details below. If you are interested, PLEASE REACH OUT TO THE SCHOOL AT 905-684-6545 TO SECURE YOUR SPOT AT THIS EVENT. We will be ordering pizza, and it would be helpful if we could collect the number of attendees for this event.
We hope to see you at Edith!
November 11, 2025
Look at this teamwork!
The snow has arrived. Please make sure you send your children with warm clothing. If you need any assistance with coats, hats or mitts - please reach out to the office. We are always happy to help!
November 3, 2025
Remembrance Day
All are welcome to our Assembly on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at 9:45 am
LockDown Drill
Please read over the information sent home today about our drill this week.
Public Health Newsletter
Niagara Region Public Health Newsletter for November 2025
October 28, 2025
Fresh West Produce Market
Celebration Assembly
Our first Celebration Assembly is on October 30, 2025. All are welcome to attend and celebrate all of the amazing accomplishments. Your child's teacher will reach out to you to share if your child is receiving an award. Please check out the school calendar for future Celebration Assemblies.
COBBS Bread Fundraiser
This popular fundraiser starts OCTOBER 31, 2025. Families can purchase (or convince their neighbours, co-workers and relatives to purchase) a COBBS Bread Loaf Card for $25 each. These Loaf Cards entitle the cardholder to one complimentary loaf of bread at COBBS Bread Ridley Square, every month for one year. There are so many delicious loaves to choose from. (Value of card ranges from $50 to $100, depending on the loaf you choose) Please consider supporting student and school initiatives through participation in this fundraiser. This opportunity closes on November 21, 2025.
Photo Retake Day
Reminder: If you would like your child to have a retake, please notify your child's teacher as RETAKES are tomorrow.
Halloween
We are very excited to see all of our students on Halloween. Students are more than welcome to come to school dressed in costume; however, this is not a requirement. The grade 8 students are hosting a Just Dance Party for all classes. Kindergarten students are participating in a parade, too! Please remember that we have young children at Edith Cavell, and to wear an appropriate costume for an elementary school - no weapons, and be mindful of masks and how this can affect student safety. If you would prefer that your child not participate in Halloween festivities, we will provide alternate activities. Please reach out to your child's teacher, and we will ensure that a fun alternate day is prepared.
October 22, 2025
Wear Blue on FRIDAY
We are inviting you to join us in celebrating the Toronto Blue Jays baseball team's monumental accomplishment of playing in their first World Series Game in 23 Years. This is certainly no easy feat. In honour of all of their hard work, dedication and perseverance to their craft, we are asking you to wear any blue clothing items that you have on Friday. They play their first game that night and we hope that they will be able to feel our support from just down the QEW. Let's Go Blue Jays!
October 17, 2025
Photo Retake Day
Our photo retake day is October 29 - Remember, important dates are on the calendar, please check the calendar often :)
FRESH WEST MARKET IS BACK!
Fresh West Produce Bags filled with nutritious seasonal vegetables will be available for purchase for $5.00 starting this month. Here are the following dates we have scheduled for the Market. Thank you to Mrs. Edward and Mrs. Korosis for all of their hard work and dedication to this initiative.
Money Due | Market Day |
November 12 | November 19 |
December 10 | December 17 |
January 21 | January 28 |
February 18 | February 25 |
March 25 | April 1 |
April 22 | April 29 |
May 20 | May 27 |
June 10 | June 17 |
October 14, 2025
Renovation
We are excited to share that our Library and Makerspace is being renovated. These spaces will be outfitted with Univent systems for air conditioning, new flooring, paint and lighting. We can't wait for you all to see the upgrades!
School Council
Please join us for our school council meeting on Thursday, October 16th, at 5:00 pm - all are welcome. Since the Library is being renovated, we will host this meeting in the Learning Commons LRT room.
October 8, 2025
Terry Fox
Our Terry Fox walk is tomorrow. Please make sure children wear comfortable shoes and clothing. Here is a link to the donation page for you to support this very important charity. https://terryfoxschoolrun.org/
September 26, 2025
Message from the DSBN
We’re pleased to share an optional but valuable resource for families: the InsureMyKids Protection Plan, offered by Old Republic Insurance Company of Canada. This affordable student accident insurance provides 24/7 coverage for your child—at school, at home, on weekends, and even during vacations. Plans start at just $17 per year, with multiple coverage levels to suit your family’s needs. Coverage is available for children from 6 months to 26 years old (must be full-time students if 14+) and coverage begins immediately upon registration. To learn more or enroll, visit www.insuremykids.com or call 1-800-463-5437.
September 24, 2025
ATTENTION GRADE 8 GRADUATES
Big Bear Spirit Wear has just released the Class of 2026 Grad Hoodies. Purchases can be made by visiting this link: https://www.bigbearspiritwear.com/product/edith-cavell-gradwear-class-of-2026-gradhoodie-printed-ec-18500-2026/
September 16, 2025
Spiritwear
Please check out the link to Big Bear Spiritwear if you are interested in purchasing some school spiritwear. This link is always open throughout the year for purchases :) https://www.bigbearspiritwear.com/edith-cavell/
Reminder - CHANGE OF DATE
Meet the teacher is TUESDAY, September 23rd, from 4 - 6 pm. We hope to see you there!
School PHOTO DAY
Our school photo day is September 26th - retakes will be available if you are not able to make this date.
September 11, 2025
Days of Significance
At the DSBN, we know that strong school communities grow through partnerships with families. Your traditions, experiences, and strengths shape who we are, and we look forward to learning from them
As we start the school year, we’d love for you to share with us any holidays, celebrations, or practices that are meaningful to your family. This helps us plan more thoughtfully and ensures students can fully take part in school life, while also giving us a chance to learn more about the rich diversity of our community.
To make this easier, the DSBN has created a Family Guide: Recognizing and Respecting Creed Diversity, which explains how to make accommodation requests. The guide is available in several languages, and you can find it, along with the Days of Significance Calendar, on the DSBN Equity webpage.
September 8, 2025
School Calendar
Please make sure to regularly check the school calendar for Edith Cavell Events. The calendar can be found as a link on the homepage of this school website.
Class Reorganization - There is a possibility that we will need to reorganize.
Every year, each school in the DSBN revisits enrollment a few weeks into September. It is important to remember that should our student enrollment increase or decrease during the first week of school, we may need to reorganize our classrooms to meet the primary class size cap of 20 students per class. It may be possible for your child to continue in a different class from the one they started in at the beginning of the school year. We will let you know if student enrollment changes result in a reorganization. We understand that this can cause some disruption and can be a difficult process; however, we will do our best to make any transitions as smooth as possible. Changes will only take place should a reorganization be necessary.
Food Donation Day
At Edith Cavell, on Saturday, September 13th, from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm, we will be hosting a food donation day with the support of DSMAH charities. This will be open to Edith Cavell families. Quantities will be limited to each family to ensure that as many families can participate.
Meet the Teacher
On Tuesday, September 23rd, from 4 pm - 6 pm, we will be hosting our annual Meet the Teacher event. Please join us to catch a glimpse of your child's classroom and put a face to the name of your child's teacher. We cannot wait to see you all!
Lunch Angels
If your child participates in Lunch Angels, it will start on Tuesday, September 30th, 2025.
September 2, 2025
Welcome to the 2025–2026 School Year at Edith Cavell!
We’re excited to kick off another amazing year of learning and growth at Edith Cavell! A warm welcome back to all our returning students and families—and a special welcome to those who are new to our school community. We hope your summer was filled with fun and relaxation.
A big thank you goes out to Mrs. Braund and our dedicated caretaking team for working hard to get the school looking beautiful and ready for a fresh start!
First Day of School TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 2, 2025
There’s something truly special about the first day of school—the energy, the excitement, and the sense of new beginnings. Our students bring vibrancy, curiosity, and fresh perspectives that energize our learning spaces. Each new school year is a chance to grow, explore, and connect in new ways.
We’re looking forward to a year filled with meaningful learning, exciting opportunities, and strong relationships. Together, we’ll create a welcoming and inspiring environment where every student can thrive. Education is a collaborative effort, and we deeply value the partnership between our school, families, and community. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with questions, feedback, or ideas—we’re in this together.
Meet the Staff
Prevalent Medical
If you have a child with a prevalent medical condition (i.e., Asthma, Anaphylaxis, Diabetes, Epilepsy, or others) we want to make sure we have the most up-to-date information to support your child. All families with children with prevalent medical conditions are asked to complete a Plan of Care and submit it to the school. If you have previously indicated a medical condition, your child will receive a package of forms the first week of school. Please complete these forms and return them to the office as soon as possible. If you require any assistance, don't hesitate to get in touch with the office.
Class Reorganization
Every year, each school in the DSBN revisits enrollment a few weeks into September. It is important to remember that should our student enrollment increase or decrease during the first week of school, we may need to reorganize our classrooms to meet the primary class size cap of 20 students per class. It may be possible for your child to continue in a different class from the one they started in at the beginning of the school year. We will let you know if student enrollment changes result in a reorganization. We understand that this can cause some disruption and can be a difficult process; however, we will do our best to make any transitions as smooth as possible. Changes will only take place should a reorganization be necessary.
Attendance
Attendance is taken twice daily. Please help us to ensure the safety of our students by reporting your child’s absence, late arrivals or early dismissals through the Safe Arrival system. Students who arrive late to school (morning or afternoon) must report to the office.
How can I report my child’s absence or late arrival?
Using the Safe Arrival system, parents will be able to report daily absences and even schedule absences in one of three ways:
1. Call toll-free before bell time: 1-866-606-5567
2. Logging on to the school messenger web portal. Using this website, you can set up your account to report and schedule absences.
3. Using your smartphone or tablet, use the SchoolMessenger app.
Please report all absences before bell time for the current day. If your child has an upcoming appointment, you can also schedule future absences by using one of these three methods.
Breakfast Club
We are excited to share that the Breakfast Club at Edith Cavell will continue. The Breakfast Club doors will open on Monday, September 8th. Students can join us from 8:20 am to 8:40 am each day.
Important Dates
Please refer to the Calendar on our Edith Cavell website. Click SCHOOL CALENDAR on the main page. Our first school event will be our MEET THE TEACHER evening on September 25th, 2025. Changed to September 23, 2025. More details to follow.
August 29, 2025
Class Placements 2025-2026
Please check your email. All families have been emailed with the class information for their children today.