Thursday September 4, 2025

Dear KHPS Parents,

Many thanks for making this a great startup week here at Kanata Highlands.

I really appreciate you adhering to the instructions regarding the parking lot, getting your child/children here on time; (despite some late buses), and greeting our staff so warmly after the long summer break.

We have enjoyed reconnecting with the students and hearing all their wonderful stories about summer holidays.

I am including some important information in this email that I sent last week, so forgive the repetition, however it is necessary.

Office Communications: If your child is going to be absent, please report the absence using the SchoolMessenger SafeArrival system.  This system allows you to use a mobile app, a website, or an interactive toll-free phone line to report the absence in advance.  For general office inquiries, please call 613-591-6098 and press 0 for the main office.

Medical Forms:  Thank you to all families who have completed Plan of Care forms.  If you have not already done so, please send in their medication to the office and complete the OCDSB 963 - PLAN OF CARE FOR STUDENTS if your child has any severe or life threatening medical conditions ( i.e. allergies, epilepsy, diabetes etc.) and may require the administration of medication at school.  If your child requires prescription medication for a non-life threatening medical condition, please complete and submit OCDSB 988 - HANDLING OF PRESCRIBED MEDICATION FOR STUDENTS WITH NON-LIFE-THREATENING MEDICAL CONDITIONS.  For safety reasons, we would prefer that medications not be kept in students’ backpacks.  Please remember to "SAVE" at the end of the form once completed so that a copy will be sent to the school for our records.  No paper copy is required.  Please note that these forms are only valid for the present school year.  

Media Permission form: Many of you have already completed our Media Permission form - thank you for that. If you have not, please complete the form for the 2025-2026 school year. We require an updated form each school year.

Use of Technology: Also please complete the Appropriate use of Technology Form if you are in JK, grade 4 or are new to the OCDSB. Appropriate use of technology agreement

Trillium Woods: Accessing Trillium Woods remains an important part of our Outdoor Education Program and requires you to complete a consent to attend form. Trillium Woods is the area of woodland adjacent to our school and frequented weekly by classes. Your homeroom teacher will be in touch through their Google Classroom regarding visits to Trillium Woods. Trillium Woods Permission Form

School Levy:  In keeping with past practice we will once again be asking for a voluntary student fee of $20 per student. These fees will be used for additional educational experiences. This voluntary fee will be collected online using your School Cash Online account. Please do not send money with your child. If you do not yet have a school cash online account please create one using the attached instructions.

Volunteer with us:  If you have some spare time during the week, we would welcome you in to volunteer with us. We are always looking for parents, grandparents, family members to hear readers, help with prepping materials, and assist teachers with running sports events. We discourage you from volunteering in your child’s class, but can offer you a different grade. You can also become more engaged with our school through joining our School Council.

Busing and Kiss and Ride:

I encourage you to sign up with OSTA to receive busing notifications throughout the year. Please create an account using the parent portal.

We do recommend you place your child on the bus each and every day. This reduces traffic congestion in the car park and keeps our children and staff safe.

The Kiss and Ride is for drop off only. If you take a little longer to have your child exit the car, please park and walk your child over to the playground.

KHPS Open House : We will welcome you in to meet us and see your child’s classroom on Thursday September 18th. More information to come.

First Week of School: This first week of school our focus has been on school expectations, and building routine and stamina.

Establishing clear expectations in school is vital for creating a positive and productive learning environment. When students know what is expected of them regarding behavior, effort, and participation, it fosters a sense of responsibility and accountability. Clear expectations help minimize confusion, reduce disruptions, and promote respect among peers and teachers. They also set a standard for academic achievement and personal growth, encouraging students to reach their full potential. By creating a predictable and supportive atmosphere, schools can better support learning, cooperation, and the overall well-being of every student.

Just like at school, establishing clear expectations for home life is essential for creating a sense of structure, security, and mutual respect within the family. When parents set consistent guidelines for chores, behavior, and routines, children learn responsibility, develop good habits, and feel more confident in their environment. Clear expectations also reduce conflicts and help children understand their roles within the family, fostering cooperation and stronger relationships. Ultimately, it empowers kids to thrive, knowing what’s expected of them, and contributes to a more harmonious home.

Have a great weekend,

Mandy Long and Shawn Hocking

Principal and Vice Principal