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DateDayFromMessage
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Friday April 264LibraryAll Forest of Reading Club members! It's voting day! Please come to the library at lunch to vote for your favourite Red Maple, White Pine, or Silver Birch book. A huge congratulations to all of our members - you have shown dedication and excitement for the Forest of Reading program and you are awesome!
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4BSAThere will be a BSA meeting in Room 221 Today at 11:45 am with Ms. Brown. Please bring your lunch.
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Latin-America History Month“Two in harmony are in god’s company.” ~ Argentine proverb
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Sikh Heritage MonthDuring worship services, Sikhs chant in Punjabi, the language of Sikhism. Guru Angad, the Sikh’s 2nd human guru, developed the written version called Gurmukhi. The Gurmukhi alphabet contains 35 basic letters, as well as a number of additional consonants and diacritical marks. All the hymns, poems, and couplets of their sacred text are written in Gurmukhi.
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Thursday April 253Today after school starting at 3:30 PM is the Staff Meeting it will take place in the library. At 5:30 PM also in the library is the school council meeting.
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Latin-America History Month“Spirituality which inspires activism and, similarly, politics which move the spirit - which draw from the deep-seated place of our greatest longings for freedom - give meaning to our lives.”~ Cherríe L. Moraga, Chicana
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3BSA
There will be a BSA meeting in Room 221 on Friday April 26 at 11:45 am with Ms. Brown. Please bring your lunch.
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Sikh Heritage MonthThe four doors in a Sikh Gurdwara symbolise the openness, acceptance and inclusivity of Sikhism, welcoming everyone regardless of their background, religion, or culture. It reinforces the message that Sikhism invites all people from every direction to come together in peace and harmony, emphasising equality and universal brotherhood.
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Wednesday April 242Reminder that we will be having a Fire Drill this morning at 9:50 AM.
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Chess Club is cancelled today. See you next week!
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Latin-America History Month“Nobody deserves your tears, but whoever deserves them will not make you cry.” ~ Gabriel Garcia Marquez, (Writer) Colombia
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LibraryForest of Reading Voting starts in classes today! This is an announcement for teachers: if you have borrowed the Blue Spruce book, Cocoa Magic, please return it to Ms. Merkley as soon as possible. Thank you!
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Sikh Heritage MonthNav Bhatia is a Sikh Canadian businessman and philanthropist, known as the "Superfan" of the Toronto Raptors NBA basketball team. He is one of the most recognizable and beloved figures in the Toronto sports community, having attended every home game of the Raptors since the team's inception in 1995. Bhatia is also a successful entrepreneur, having started several car dealerships in the Toronto area, and is a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion, particularly in the workplace. He has been recognized with numerous awards and honours for his contributions to the community, and is considered a role model and inspiration for many.
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Tuesday April 231The first drill for today has been postponded to Wednesday morning.
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Grade 5 and 6 students in the YEP program: we will be meeting in the science room at lunch. See you there!
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Building Classes, we have some meetings at lunch today and others this afternoon. Check the WAG for the schedule.
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Latin-America History Month“What I treasure most in life is being able to dream. During my most difficult moments and complex situations I have been able to dream of a more beautiful future.” ~ Rigoberta Menchú Tum, Indigenous K'iche', Guatemala
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LibraryThis is our last week of the Forest of Reading! Way to go Forest of Reading Club and all of our students! Classes start voting tomorrow. If you are in the club, please come to the library at lunch time on Friday to vote!
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Sikh Heritage MonthThe Seva Food Bank is the first major initiative of Sikhs Serving Canada, a registered not-for-profit organisation that engages Sikhs in a variety of local community-focused initiatives that benefit all Canadians. Their work aims to address the challenges of food security, poverty reduction and economic renewal for low-income families. Seva Food Bank’s approach underscores the importance of dignity, cultural sensitivity and inclusion, while their solutions are developed and implemented with thoughtful community engagement. In addition to a food bank, the Seva Food Bank provides many free programs and services, such as settlement services, navigation services, healthy living workshops, dental screenings, and tax clinics.
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Monday April 225To all staff and students today is a Day 5. Tomorrow is a Day 1. We are back to the regular Day schedule.
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We will be having a Fire Drill tomorrow morning, staff take the time to review procedures for yourself and with the students.
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Latin-America History Month“I am a woman, and I am a Latina. Those are the things that make my writing distinctive. Those are the things that give my writing power.” ~ Sandra Cisneros, Mexican-American
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The planetHappy Earth Day to everyone! Look around and notice how beautiful our world is - take some time to think about how you can help protect it! Remember we only have one planet and we are all responsible for keeping it healthy!
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Sikh Heritage MonthThe tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji prescribed The Five K’s on Vaisakhi Day in 1699 for all to witness. They are five items of faith which display and show the wearer’s conviction to Khalsa, and are a constant reminder of the high principles of the Sikh faith.
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Friday April 191Reminder to all staff and students today is a Day 1 according to the timetable and a Day 5 for supervision.
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Latin-America History Month“Every moment is an organizing opportunity, every person a potential activist, every minute a chance to change the world.” ~ Dolores Huerta, Mexican-American
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Sikh Heritage MonthEvery year on April 13th, Sikhs around the world celebrate Vaisakhi, which marks the creation of the Khalsa, a community that considers Sikhism as its faith, and the Sikh articles of faith. Sikh Canadians widely celebrate Vaisakhi, also known as Khalsa Day, across Ontario. Happy Vaisakhi to all of you!
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Thursday April 184Latin-America History Month“I grow a white rose In July just as in January For the sincere friend Who gives me his frank hand. And for the cruel man who pulls out of me the heart with which I live, I grow neither nettles nor thorns: I grow a white rose.” ~ Jose Marti, (Poet/Writer) Cuba
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Sikh Heritage MonthHarjit Singh Sajjan is a Sikh Canadian politician and retired Canadian Armed Forces officer who currently serves as the Minister of National Defence in the federal Cabinet. He was born in India and immigrated to Canada with his family at a young age. He served in the Canadian Armed Forces for over 20 years, with deployments to Bosnia and Afghanistan, and was awarded numerous commendations for his service. He entered politics in 2015 and was elected as the Member of Parliament for Vancouver South, and was later appointed as Minister of National Defence in the Trudeau government. He has focused on improving Canada's military capabilities and capacity, as well as strengthening relationships with allies and promoting peacekeeping efforts around the world. He is also an advocate for diversity and inclusion in the Canadian Armed Forces and society as a whole.
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Wednesday April 173Latin-America History Month“The world has always gone forward when people have dared to have crazy ideas.” ~ Gioconda Belli, (Author) Nicaragua
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Sikh Heritage MonthSidhu Moosewala was a Sikh Punjabi singer, songwriter, and actor known for his contributions to the Indian music industry. He was born and raised in the village of Moosa in Punjab, India, and began his career as a lyricist, writing songs for other Punjabi artists. He gained popularity with his debut single "License" in 2016, and has since released several hit songs and albums. His music was known for blending traditional Punjabi folk music with modern hip-hop and rap influences. Moosewala also made his acting debut in the Punjabi film "Yes I Am Student". Unfortunately, he passed away on May 29, 2022. Despite controversies surrounding some of his lyrics, he had a large and dedicated fan base, and was considered one of the most influential Punjabi artists of his generation
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Tuesday April 162Latin-America History Month“I paint my own reality. The only thing I know is that I paint because I need to, and I paint whatever passes through my head without any other consideration.” ~ Frida Kahlo, (Artist) Mexico
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Sikh Heritage MonthSandeep Singh Brar is a pioneering figure in the Sikh community known for his contributions to Sikh history, culture, and digital media. He created the first Sikh website, sikhs.org, which became a popular resource for Sikhs around the world. He is also an accomplished photographer and historian, having documented Sikh history and culture through his photography and research. He has written several books and articles on Sikh history, curated exhibitions of Sikh art and artifacts, and has been recognized with several awards and honours for his contributions to Sikhism in the digital age. A turban is a symbol of royalty, and epitomizes equality, honour, self-respect, courage, spirituality and piety. Sikhs wear a turban as they believe that God made all perfect as part of his creation. Therefore, Sikhs do not alter the body for aesthetic reasons or appearances. The ‘turban’ signifies upholding the commitment to one’s Faith, to righteousness, to be distinctive just like a policeman or soldier in order to help others in need. Uncut hair and the turban are a part of Sikh Identity and an article of faith.
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Staffing Committee we are meeting in the library at lunch today to discuss next steps in preparing for 2024-2025. We also have a Budget surplus meeting tomorrow at lunch, all staff are welcome.
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Monday April 151Latin-America History Month“The point is not to pay back kindness, but to pass it on.”~ Julia Alvarez, (Poet) Dominican American
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Sikh Heritage Month“Sat Sri Akaal" is used by Sikhs throughout the world when greeting other Sikhs, regardless of their native language. It means God is the truth.
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Friday April 125Latin-America History Month“Write what should not be forgotten.”~ Isabel Allende, (Writer) Chile
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Sikh Heritage MonthSeva (say-va) means selfless service for others. Each of us has a responsibility to give back in any way we can. One should serve with humility, compassion and gratitude, treating everyone equitably with dignity and respect.
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Thursday April 114Latin-America History Month“It is not true that people stop pursuing dreams because they grow old, they grow old because they stop pursuing dreams.” ~ Gabriel Garcia Márquez, (Writer) Colombia
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Sikh Heritage MonthJagmeet Singh is a Sikh Canadian politician and lawyer who currently serves as the leader of the federal New Democratic Party (NDP). He was born in Canada to Punjabi immigrant parents, and is the first person of colour to lead a major federal political party in Canada. He began his political career as a member of the Ontario legislature, where he served as Deputy Leader of the Ontario NDP. He was elected as leader of the federal NDP in 2017, and has since been a strong voice for social justice, human rights, and environmental protection. He has advocated for a wide range of policies, including universal pharmacare, affordable housing, and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. He has also been vocal about issues such as anti-racism, gender equality, and LGBTQ+ rights, and has been recognized for his advocacy and leadership in these areas.
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LibraryForest of Reading Club attention, attention! Keep on reading and exchanging those books - remember you need to read at least 5 out of 10 of the books in your category to be able to vote at the end of the month. Keep reading!
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Wednesday April 103Latin-America History Month“Life itself is a quotation.” ~ Jorge Luis Borges, (Writer) Argentina
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Sikh Heritage MonthThe concept of langar, a free community kitchen, was designed to uphold equality among all people, regardless of religion, caste, colour, creed, age, gender, or social status. It was an innovative idea introduced into Sikhism by its founder, Guru Nanak Dev Ji, over 500 years ago. It was first introduced in the Northern Indian state of Punjab to eliminate poverty in the world and to introduce the concept of caring communities. The sikhs used to donate part of their produce/income for this noble cause, and this legacy of langar - the free kitchen- continues in all sikh temples all around the world.
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Assembly BehaviorTeachers, thank you for speaking to your students about appropriate behaviour in our assembly yesterday. Nelson Mandela students, you did a phenominal job showing respect, listening, and asking meaningful questions. You represented Mandela well. KEEP SHINING!! From Ms. Brown
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Tuesday April 92Latin-America History Month“The point is not to pay back kindness,but to pass it on.”~ Julia Alvarez, (Poet) Dominican American
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Sikh Heritage MonthPrivate Buckam Singh was a Sikh soldier who fought for Canada in World War I. He was born in Punjab, India, and immigrated to Canada in 1907. Singh enlisted in the Canadian Expeditionary Force in 1915, becoming one of the first Sikh soldiers to serve in the Canadian military. He fought in several battles, including the Battle of the Somme, and was wounded in action twice. Despite facing discrimination and challenges due to his race and religion, Singh was a dedicated and brave soldier who earned the respect of his fellow soldiers. He was also the first known Sikh soldier to be granted permission to wear a turban in battle, paving the way for future Sikh soldiers in the Canadian military. After the war, Singh returned to Canada and lived out his life in British Columbia, passing away in 1919. He is remembered as a trailblazer and hero in both the Sikh and Canadian communities.
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BSAGrades 4 to 8 teachers please bring your class down to the gym right after the anouncements for our Black Excellence Assembly. As a reminder, please review the expectations and emphasize the importance of respect during the presentation with your students.
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Friday April 55Latin-America History Month“Little by little one walks far.” ~ Peruvian Proverb
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Sikh Heritage MonthThe Sikh Gurus sought to abolish the Indian caste system that assigned values and rights to individuals based on the families they were born into. To eliminate caste discrimination and promote equality among all humans, followers of Sikhism were encouraged to adopt common last names, leaving no identifiable differences between individuals from different social classes. Men were given last name Singh, meaning lion, and women were given last name Kaur, meaning princess. The use of Kaur, as opposed to adopting family names in marriage, promotes women as individuals with value and identities existing independently of their relationships with men.
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5BSAA reminder that there will be a BSA meeting at 11:45 am in room 221 with Ms. Brown. See you there! Don't forget your lunch.
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Thursday April 44Staffing Committee meeting at lunch today in the library.
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Latin-America History Month“Conversation is food for the soul.” ~ Mexican Proverb
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Sikh Heritage MonthFauja Singh is a British Sikh centenarian marathon runner, who is considered to be one of the world's oldest marathon runners. He was born in Punjab, India, in 1911 and moved to England in the 1960s. He took up running at the age of 89 and has since participated in several marathons, including the London Marathon, where he set a world record for his age group in 2003. He has become an inspiration to many for his determination and perseverance, and has been honoured with numerous awards and accolades for his achievements. In 2012, he carried the Olympic torch through London, becoming the oldest torchbearer in history.
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4BSAThere will be a BSA meeting in Room 221 on Friday April 5 at 11:45 am with Ms. Brown. Please bring your lunch.
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Trans Day of Visibility
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Wednesday April 33Latin-America History Month“The world is not going to change unless we change ourselves.”~ Rigoberta Menchú Tum, Indigenous K'iche', (Nobel Peace Prize Winner,1992) Guatemala
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Sikh Heritage MonthSikhism is the world's fifth-largest religion. The word “Sikh” means ‘learner’ or ‘seeker of truth’. Sikhism advocates for equality, social justice, service to humanity and tolerance for all. The essential message in Sikhism is spiritual devotion to God at all times while practising the ideals of honesty, compassion, humility and generosity in everyday life.
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Trans Day of VisibilityToday we will be honouring Vivek Shraya a talented artist, author, musician, playwright and actor. Her work is deeply personal, beautiful, playful, painful and joyful. Her story The Boy and the Bindi is a wonderful story of a boy sharing in Hindu traditions with his mother. There are copies all around the school to be read!
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This is a message for the Forest of Reading Club. If you have had a book for more than a week, please return it as soon as possible. This especially applies to Silver Birch Express readers - many students need to read each book, so please return the books promptly so everyone can get through them. Readers, you are doing an amazing job. Keep it up!
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Tuesday April 22RamadanEach day during Ramadan students who are fasting are invited to spend their indoor lunch time in Room 217 with Ms. Tzogas. Students go to Room 217 during your indoor lunch time. You will continue to spend their outdoor time outdoors.
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Latin-America History Month“Widen the path of opportunities and continue to leave a powerful and positive legacy in this world.” ~ Luis Fonsi (Singer/Songwriter) Puerto Rico
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Sikh Heritage MonthSikh Heritage Month is proudly recognized at the Toronto District School Board during the month of April. On March 22, 2016, the Board of Trustees voted to designate April of each year as Sikh Heritage Month, making the TDSB the first school board in Canada to do so. This designation matches the recognition by the province of Ontario that proclaimed the Sikh Heritage Month Act in December 2013.
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March 31st every year signifies Trans Day of Visibility. This week The Positive Space Committee and Everything In-Between Club will highlight an influential person from the Two Spirit Trans and Non-Binary Community. Today we will honour Elliot Page, a Nova Scotia born Canadian Actor famous for his roles in the movie Juno, the series Umbrella Academy and all their incredible activism for 2SLGBTQIS Youth.
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This year’s Sikh Heritage Month theme is: Chardi Kala, which can be translated to “eternal optimism” and a positive, uplifted state of mind.
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Thursday March 281Reminder that tomorrow Good Friday is a holiday and extend long weekend as Monday, Easter Monday is also holiday. Enjoy a safe and relaxing long weekend and see you all back on Tuesday morning.
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Primary Team meeting today at lunch. Prinary team meeting at lunch in the library.
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BSAA reminder that there will be a BSA meeting for students at 11:45 am in room 221 with Ms. Brown. See you there!
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Greek Heritage MonthAncient Greek theatre showcased many styles of acting and choreography. The actors were all men. Male actors would dress as females during performances. As you can imagine, the costumes played an important role during the show. Costumes were bulky and this allowed for guests further away to see the actors on stage. Thespis is known as the very first actor in Ancient Greek theatre. Present-day actors are sometimes called Thespians.
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RamadanEach day during Ramadan students who are fasting are invited to spend their indoor lunch time in Room 217 with Ms. Tzogas. Students go to Room 217 during your indoor lunch time. You will continue to spend their outdoor time outdoors.
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Wednesday March 275Greek Heritage MonthAncient Greek philosophers all started a new type of thinking. Rather than believing in myths and stories, they began searching for the truth of the world by using their rational thinking. The ideas of Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, and hundreds of other Greek philosophers, have all remained very important in the development of other new philosophical ideas, as well as science, astronomy, physics, medicine, and mathematics, just to name a few.
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Reminder of the Junior Team meeting today at lunch, we will meet at in the libary. Junior team meeting at lunch in the library.
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BSAThis is an announcement for all members of the BSA Team. Please meet in Room 221 tomorrow, Thursday March 28th at 11:45 am. Please bring your lunch.
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This afternoon we will have some High School teachers visiting from Jarvis Collegiate. They will be observing and learning with our grade 8 teachers.
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RamadanEach day during Ramadan students who are fasting are invited to spend their indoor lunch time in Room 217 with Ms. Tzogas. Students go to Room 217 during your indoor lunch time. You will continue to spend their outdoor time outdoors.