Hello Grade one and two parents!
The countdown is on, and we are only 5 days away from the first day of school. My name is Mrs. Jennie Barton and I am excited to be teaching your child this year. I started at GCS in 2013 teaching a grade 1-2 split for the following 4 years. Since 2018 we have been blessed with single grade classes with the addition of our new elementary wing, and I have taught in both the grades one and two classes. I am excited to see the learning and growth that each child will have this year.
In Grade one and two this year, we will have lots of help from Mrs. Arthurs during our Math block and Mrs. McGonnell during our Language Arts block. As well, during our first quarter we will be blessed to have Mrs. Lisa Bergsma who is completing her practicum for her BEd. at UPEI. Even though Mrs. Bergsma is finishing up her education degree, she has many years of teaching experience. I am excited to see what this year has in store!
School Theme Verse:
This year’s school theme verse comes from Romans 15:13 (NIV)
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
First Day of School
Our first day of school will be Wednesday, September 7th. Drop off for elementary students will begin at 8:35am. Class begins at 8:45am. Parents are asked to stay inside their vehicle and to drop off their child in the drive-thru drop off zone only. Grade one and two students will enter and exit through the main school entrance. The elementary school day concludes at 2:45pm. Parents are asked to pick up their child promptly, once again using the drive-thru drop off/pick up zone.
Please send in all necessary school supplies on the first day. A list of school supplies needed for grade two can be found here. Students will need a lunch box containing a healthy snack (no candy or pop), healthy lunch, and drink in a spill-proof container. Since water fountains will be closed due to health and safety procedures, we do recommend students have their own spill-proof water bottles, which will also need to be cleaned daily.
COVID-19 Update
Based upon our communication with the provincial Chief Public Health Office, we are anticipating a more ‘normal’ school year. The school year will begin with important routine measures for managing COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses. Masks are not required, but individuals who choose to wear one will be supported.
The emphasis remains to be on wellness. Eligible individuals are encouraged to receive their vaccinations and boosters. Students are asked to remain at home when unwell, be tested for COVID-19 when symptoms develop, and to follow current public health guidance regarding isolation. Students will be asked to practice good hand hygiene, routine cleaning, and disinfection throughout the school day.
As the year progresses, we will continue to communicate with the CPHO and address the directives provided to us as a private school.
Elementary After-School Program
If you will be utilizing our elementary after-school program this year or would like more information about the program, please reach out to our afterschool program director, Mrs. Victoria Kelly, at vkelly@gcspei.ca
I look forward to partnering with you this year in your child’s educational journey. If you have any questions or concerns, you can contact me through email at jbarton@gcspei.ca. As well, messages can be left through the office at (902)-628-1668.
Praying everyone enjoys their last weekend before school. See you all on Wednesday!
Mrs. Barton
