Niton Central News

Our grade 1's and 2's are Lovin' the weather. We have been very lucky to have such beautiful weather in Yellowhead County it is hard to believe we are nearing the end of September and FALL is here. Having said that just a reminder that as temperatures cool off students need to wear appropriate winter wear for recess and lunch hour.

We would like to take this opportunity to welcoming our new Jr. KG students to the Niton Central family who started with us Thursday, Sept. 24th. It's great to see the excitement in the student's faces as they walk into school for the first time.

The Grade 5/6 class continued their study of the human face and figure in Art. They finished creating and glazing their clay faces that they started last week. They learned about scoring the clay, cross hatching the clay when attaching pieces, and portions of the face. They will be adding some extras to their next week.

Students were putting their research and knot tying practice to use building survival structures, using only rope, sticks and tarps. Most students choose to do some variation of a lean-to structure with their own creative twist. This is part of Niton Central's Outdoor Ed program, where students learn basic skills related to survival and bushcraft.

Our students had a great time challenging themselves during our Terry Fox run!

Orange Shirt Day is an event, created in 2013, designed to educated people and promote awareness about the Indigenous Residential School system and the impact it has had on Indigenous communities for generations and presently. It is a day for survivors to be reaffirmed that they matter, and so do those who have been affected. This day allows an opportunity for education about the what went on in Residential Schools, and allows for anti-racism and anti-bullying discussions and learning. It allows everyone to come together in the spirit of reconciliation and hope for generations to come. Communities around Canada are encouraged to wear an orange shirt, which was inspired by the story of survivor, Phyllis Jack Webstad.

October 9th will be our first annual Running of the Turkeys. Students will be running in their cohorts following the same course as our Terry Fox run. This event combines mathematic and physical skills. Students will submit a "Guesstimation" of the time they believe it will take them to complete the course. The one student/grade who is the closest to their time will bring home a turkey for Thanksgiving. Top three Best dressed Turkeys will also be awarded a prize.

As you may have heard Niton Central School is in the process of expanding our options program for Jr. High students. Throughout the year students will get to experience a wide range of options including Computer Science, Metal Work, Woodwork, Mechanics and Outdoor Education. It is with that focus that we are asking for community help. We are hoping that some people in the community might be able to donate some of the following items.

Old or Broken

-Computers

-small engines, lawnmowers, generators, chainsaws, etc

-equipment (air compressors, water pumps, etc.)

- hatchets or axes (complete or just the head they will be used to practice sharpening not cutting)

Unwanted but usable

-Navigation Compasses

-Tool boxes/chests (stationary or portable, large or small)

-Workbenches (wood or metal)

-Hand tools (screwdrivers, pliers, files, chisels, sockets, wrenches, saws, etc.)

-Hand Held Power Tools (corded or battery with or without batteries)

-Stationary Power Tools

-Vises (all types)

-Clamps (all types)

All questions can be directed via email to Alan Stoyles via email at alanstoy@gypsd.ca, or via phone at the main school number 780-795-3782.

Nutrition and Covid-19 for School-aged Children A great resource for engaging your son/daughter in preparing nutritious meals.

Please be aware of the recent changes to health and safety mandates which applies to all Alberta citizens.

From the AB Ed COVID Online Assessment. https://myhealth.alberta.ca/journey/covid-19/Pages/COVID-Self-Assessment.aspx

You are legally required to self-isolate if:

• you test positive for COVID-19.
• you have a cough, fever, shortness of breath, runny nose, or sore throat that is not related to a pre-existing illness or health condition.
• you have been in contact with someone known to have COVID-19.
• you have travelled outside Canada within the last 14 days.

You do not have to self-isolate if:

• you are awaiting asymptomatic test results.
• you have no symptoms of illness.
• you have symptoms of illness that are related to a pre-existing illness or health condition.
• you have tested negative for COVID-19.
• you have tested negative for COVID-19 and have a cough, fever, shortness of breath, runny nose, or sore throat that is not related to a pre-existing illness or health condition. We do always suggest you stay home when sick with any illness, until symptoms resolve; however, if your COVID test is negative, this is not legally required.

Wednesday, Sept. 30th - Orange Shirt Day

Website: https://nitoncentralschool.gypsd.ca/
Phone: 780-795-3782
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nitoncentralschool/