November 15, 2024
Dear T.A.B. Families
It has been an exciting week as we recognize two of our sports teams finishing their winning seasons. Congratulations to the Junior Girls Basketball team on their tier two gold medal! The Junior Boys Volleyball team had a great season too and capped it off by also winning a tier two gold medal! Well done Tigers!
Thank you to Ms.Abbott and the Senior Music Band for all their work in reminding us why we honour Remembrance Day. A tribute to all Canadians who paid the ultimate sacrifice to allow us to enjoy the freedoms we experience. It was a pleasure to see some parents who were able to join us for one of the assemblies. I must compliment our students for excellent attendance and very respectful behaviour during the assemblies. During the minute of silence you could have heard a pin drop in a gym packed with 600 students. Thank you.
This coming Thursday November 21st we will be holding our Grade 8 Information Evening to provide families with information about students who will be joining us in September of 2025. We hope to see a full house that evening as we show off our new facilities such as the ISTEM rooms, library, new family studies room and science labs. We are eagerly waiting for 3 new labs to be completed and hope to occupy them in February at the start of Semester 2.
Today, Friday November 15th report cards were emailed home electronically at 3:00pm. If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to reach out to the classroom teacher or one of the administrators. Grade 12 students are encouraged to check the Ontario College (OCAS) website and/or the Ontario Universities Application Centre website (OUAC) to verify their marks. Any issues should be reported to one of our guidance staff for resolution.
November 29th is a Professional Activity Day and our staff will be joining the staff at Abbey Park H.S learning about Asset Based Assessment. There will be a series of workshops as we acquire the skills to enhance how we evaluate student work.
On Friday November 22nd, during period one, the ESL E will be hosting a “Hope in Every Step” walk around the track as a fundraiser for Halton Women’s Place. All period one classes are invited to attend! Representatives from Halton Women’s place and two survivors will speak to the students on the track before they begin the walk. This event aims to raise donations and awareness for women and children who are victims of domestic violence and abuse. We will have some activities and a bake sale around the football field. Donations can be made in cash at the event or through School Cash Online. Krispy Kreme Donuts will also be sold online prior to the event, $15/dozen or $2/donut. We hope to have all period one classes join this event. Our goal is to get every student in the school to donate $2.00 each. This is the QR code for school cash online donations.
We still have many 2023/2024 Yearbooks here in the office that have not been picked up. Please check your School Cash Online history from last year to confirm whether or not you purchased a yearbook. If you did, please have your student come to the office and pick it up.
FROM STUDENT SUCCESS
Post Secondary Mark Upload
Earlier this week, Grade 12 midterm marks were uploaded to the Ontario University Application Centre as well as the Ontario Colleges Application Service. Students who have applied to an Ontario University or College are urged to log into their accounts to ensure all marks have been transferred correctly. If there are any issues, please contact your Guidance Counsellor ASAP.
Scholarship Update
Just a reminder that we are now accepting self-nominations for the Queen’s Chancellor Award. If you have applied to Queen’s please fill in the information in this link. One candidate will be chosen to apply for this award. The due date for self-nomination is Monday, November 25, 2024 at 11:59PM.
Please take a look at our LIVE document for more information on these awards and other scholarships/bursaries coming up.
Community Involvement
Students can submit Community Involvement Hours using the following link: https://bit.ly/TABCommunityHours. Additional information regarding this graduation requirement can be found here. Please note that for graduating students, Hours are due to Guidance by April 1, 2025. In addition, the HDSB will no longer be recording Hours past the 40 required for Graduation. Students who have completed additional Hours are urged to keep a record of these activities independently in case they would like to use them for scholarship applications, etc in their Grade 12 year.
eLearning Opt Out Form:
Students are required to earn two eLearning credits to graduate from secondary school as part of the 30 credits required for the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). * Students may opt out of this requirement using this Opt-out Form. This form is due on November 25, 2024 for students graduating this year).
New HDSB process: External Credits
Students who are completing courses outside the HDSB in the regular school year must complete the HDSB External Credit Declaration Form. Final report cards are due to the Guidance office on the last day of regular classes in the semester the student is taking the course to ensure the course is included on the student’s Graduation Summary. Please refer to the form for additional details.
The Regional Assessment and Resource Centre (RARC) Post Secondary Session
The Regional Assessment and Resource Centre (RARC) at Queen's University is hosting a session entitled Demystifying Accessibility at Post-Secondary. This session is designed to help students and families navigate accessibility at the post-secondary level. Additional info and registration details can be found here.
Post Secondary Resources
For those students applying to University next year, here is a helpful resource from OUAC.
SHSM, OYAP and Dual Credit Program Information Evenings
Students and families are invited to attend an information evening to explore a variety of specialty programs offered by the Halotn District School Board (HDSB), including:
These programs provide students with valuable skills and experiences that support their future careers and post-secondary education. Information evenings will be held in-person across the Halton District School Board. Please attend the session in the area where you reside.
Iroquois Ridge High School, Oakville
Dec. 3, 2024: 5:30 - 8 p.m. (presentation at 6 p.m.)
Bullying Prevention and Intervention Week November 17 - 23:
We encourage everyone—students, parents, guardians, and educators—to engage in this important initiative. The HDSB will be launching the Bullying Response Protocol Live with families this week. There will be some social media posts to watch for this coming week. In addition, the Ministry of Education recently launched some new Anti-Bullying Resources. The “Bullying: We Can All Help Stop It” guide (linked below) provides essential information on bullying and offers guidance to support children who may be affected. For download at ontario.ca/StopBullying.
Just a reminder for a list of activities, events and athletic schedules happening at TAB, our website tab.hdsb.ca can be a helpful resource to parents/guardians and students for school related information and updates. Please check it frequently to stay informed. Also please be sure to follow us on social media - Twitter - @TABTigerLife and Instagram - @blakelocktigers.
Thank you,
John Stieva
Principal
T.A.Blakelock High School
November 8, 2024
Dear T.A.B Families,
Congratulations to the Cross-Country team who finished 11th in Ottawa this past weekend. One of the members earned an OFSAA Bronze Medal, well done Ethan Deveaux, congratulations on your excellent finish!
In the field of other sports, both the Junior Girls Basketball team and the Junior Boys Volleyball team played final championship games at Haber Recreation Centre in Burlington this afternoon. As the teams appreciate support, we provided the opportunity for a limited number of students to “buy-in” again and attend the games to support our athletes. Students were sent to Haber in a school bus and will return at the end of the second game. Congratulations to the Junior Girls Basketball team for winning the Halton Tier 2 Championship! Well Done Tigers! And we are cheering for our Boys Volleyball team as they are representing TAB and giving it their all too!
We are also seeking a qualified swimming coach who is prepared to take over our combined swim team consisting of TAB and Garth Webb students. Unfortunately, our present coach has to relinquish the duty due to personal reasons. If you are interested and can assist, please contact me at the school at your earliest convenience.
On Monday November 11th, we will be holding two assemblies as part of our Remembrance Day ceremonies. Because lunch begins at 10:55am, we will have a minute of silence at 10:50am to remember all the Canadians who have fallen in the wars.
This Wednesday November 13th, students in grade 10 who are currently taking English this semester, will be writing the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test. We are confident that they will do well and earn the required grade to successfully complete the test.
Vaping Awareness and Prevention Campaign
Youth vaping continues to rise and has long term health effects. The 2023 Ontario
Student Drug Use and Health survey reports that vape/electronic cigarette use significantly increases with each grade level.The Halton District School Board (HDSB) and Halton Region Public Health (HRPH) are launching a vaping campaign to educate youth about the harms of vaping and where to go for help. The vaping campaign resources include posters, announcements, newsletter inserts and an interactive display. Public health nurses (PHNs) will be visiting T.A.Blakelock on November 13th during nutrition breaks with the Take the Clouds Outside display and activities for youth. Students are encouraged to visit the display (there will be prizes!).
On Friday November 15th, the science department is running the STEAM Career Fair in the cafeteria during periods 1 and 2 (for grade 12 STEAM students). Students will have the opportunity to speak to guests from a variety of career paths. To participate, they must submit a permission form signed by parents/guardians. Because we only run it once a school year, we open it up to all of the grade 12 students and any interested grade 11 students. Students should not stay the entire time and only need to speak to guests relevant to their pathway.
November 15th is the date that Midterm Report Cards will be distributed through email. Reports should be delivered to your inbox by 5:00pm that day. For students who are 18 years or older, reports will be sent directly to the students email so you will need to ask your student directly to see it.
We still have many 2023/2024 Yearbooks here in the office that have not been picked up. Please check your School Cash Online history from last year to confirm whether or not you purchased a yearbook. If you did, please have your student come to the office and pick it up.
FROM STUDENT SUCCESS
Scholarship Update
Just a reminder that we are now accepting self-nominations for the Queen’s Chancellor Award. If you have applied to Queen’s please fill in the information in this link. One candidate will be chosen to apply for this award. The due date for self-nomination is Monday, November 25, 2024 at 11:59PM.
The TD Scholarships for Community Leadership is due on November 13, 2024. If you have shown a commitment to making a positive difference in your community, you may be eligible for this scholarship.
Please take a look at our LIVE document for more information on these awards and other scholarships/bursaries coming up.
Welcome Centre Post Secondary Application Session
On November 18th, HDSB’s Welcome Centre will be hosting a University application session. Details and registration is available here.
Community Involvement
Students can submit Community Involvement Hours using the following link: https://bit.ly/TABCommunityHours. Additional information regarding this graduation requirement can be found here.
University of Toronto’s WISE 2024 High School Conference: STEM Through the Eras!
This high school conference is an opportunity to come to the university campus and interact with students from science and engineering programs, engage with professors in the first-year program, learn more about the engineering and the sciences program and hear from the multi-dimensional aspects of the student experiences here at the University of Toronto.
STEM Through the Eras
Date: November 9, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Location: University of Toronto - St. George Campus in Galbraith Building (Room 202).Target audience: although this event is prioritized for female, non-binary and two spirited students in high school, male students are welcome to attend!
Sign up for the event here: https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/wise-2024-high-school-conference
The Regional Assessment and Resource Centre (RARC) Post Secondary Session
The Regional Assessment and Resource Centre (RARC) at Queen's University is hosting a session entitled Demystifying Accessibility at Post-Secondary. This session is designed to help students and families navigate accessibility at the post-secondary level. Additional info and registration details can be found here.
Post-Secondary Visits
On November 15th, representatives from the University of Waterloo, Western University and the University of Niagara Falls will be visiting our school. Students are urged to drop by the caf at lunch to connect with the reps and ask questions!
Halton Regional Police Service Info Night for Parents
The HRPS is running a Virtual Information Night for parents on November 18. More info is available here.
Just a reminder for a list of activities, events and athletic schedules happening at TAB, our website tab.hdsb.ca can be a helpful resource to parents/guardians and students for school related information and updates. Please check it frequently to stay informed. Also please be sure to follow us on social media - Twitter - @TABTigerLife and Instagram - @blakelocktigers.
Thank you,
John Stieva
Principal
T.A.Blakelock High School
November 1, 2024
Dear T.A.Blakelock Families,
We have certainly been fortunate with the weather in October, warm days that seem more like August! I hope you have had many opportunities to enjoy the weather, the changing colours of the trees and if you enjoy winter sports, you are looking forward to the first snowfall around the corner.
Our girls field hockey team, after a hard fought battle, lost their semi-final game to O.T.H.S, with a score of 2-1. The girls had a great season and are commended for their excellent sportsmanship and outstanding season. As I write this, the volleyball team and basketball team will be playing semi-final games. If they are successful, they will move on to championship games on Thursday at Hayden High School in Burlington. We will post the schedule for those games on our website should you be interested in attending. We wish them luck and we know that they will make the school very proud.
A number of important things that you should be aware of are:
November 6 - Take Your Kids to Work Day
This is an excellent opportunity for students to get a first hand glimpse of how their parents spend their work day. Should your employer not be supportive, maybe a family friend can accommodate them so they get an idea about a career or job that might interest them.November 13 - O.S.S.L.T
Grade 10 Students will be writing the Ontario Literacy Test. This is a mandate from the Ministry of Education in order to earn their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (O.S.S.D)November 15 - Mid-Term Report Cards
Reports will be emailed to parents/guardians. If you have any questions or concerns please contact the classroom teacher, if no resolution is reached, you can reach out to your students Administrator based on the students last name. V.P Kevin McConvey mcconveyk@hdsb.ca for last names A-L or V.P Kerry Sagar sagark@hdsb.ca for last names M-Z, to discuss your concerns.
A reminder that school start time is 8:15am and students should be in the classroom ready to learn by that time. Anything that you can do to reduce the number students arriving late to class would be very much appreciated.
T.A.Blakelock is an excellent school with strong academic standards and a great school community. On November 21st we will be having a Grade 8 Information Evening. If you know families that should be sending their children to T.A.B, please reassure them that they are making an excellent choice and that the instruction they will receive is exemplary. We believe that all students that enter our doors can be successful.
From Student Services
Scholarship Update
The National Centre for Women and Information Technology’s Aspirations in Computing High School Award honours and recognizes grade 9 through 12 students who self-identify as women, genderqueer, or non-binary for their computing-related achievements and interests, and encourages them to pursue their passions. Applications are due Friday, November 8, 2024 by midnight.
We are now accepting self-nominations for the Queen’s Chancellor Award. If you have applied to Queen’s please fill in the information in this link. One candidate will be chosen to apply for this award. The due date for self-nomination is Monday, November 25, 2024 at 11:59PM.
Please take a look at our LIVE document for more information on these awards and other scholarships/bursaries coming up.
Community Involvement
Students can submit Community Involvement Hours using the following link: https://bit.ly/TABCommunityHours. Additional information regarding this graduation requirement can be found here.
Take Our Kids to Work Day
The Halton District School Board is proud to be involved in Take Our Kids to Work Day, November 6, 2024. Grade 9 students will go to work with a parent, relative, or other trusted adult. Students who are unable to accompany a parent, relative, family friend to their workplace will be supported in finding a placement, where possible. Virtual placements are also an option with family approval. Please ensure that the Take Our Kids to Work Day Permission Form is signed and returned to T.A. Blakelock immediately. Electronic copies of the permission form can be found on the school website at www.tab.hdsb.ca. Please do not hesitate to contact us at 905-827-1158 or at tabhs@hdsb.ca if you have any questions, comments or concerns.
Post Secondary Visits
Next week is busy! Representatives from Mohawk College, George Brown College and Western University’s Ivey Program will be at TAB for lunchtime visits in the cafeteria.
Just a reminder for a list of activities, events and athletic schedules happening at TAB, our website tab.hdsb.ca can be a helpful resource to parents/guardians and students for school related information and updates. Please check it frequently to stay informed. Also please be sure to follow us on social media - Twitter - @TABTigerLife and Instagram - @blakelocktigers.
I hope you have a great weekend!
Thank you,
John Stieva
Principal
T.A.Blakelock High School
October 25, 2024
Dear T.A.Blakelock Families,
Another week that has been busy for sport teams. Girls Field Hockey has had a winning season and they have a semi final playoff game on Tuesday October 29 at 3:00 p.m. at St. Thomas Aquinas. If they win they are off to Greater Hamilton area Conference Games, and potentially move on to OFSAA.
Congratulations to a number of cross country competitors who have earned the privileges of representing Halton at OFSAA. We wish them luck and know they will be excellent representatives of Halton athletes.
I want to express a huge thank you to staff who have volunteered to coach and have given up hours upon hours of personal time so we were able to offer students the opportunity to play a variety of sports. This is also true for the many staff who give up their lunch and after school time to clubs, associations and events as advisors to allow these clubs to run and plan events that make for a vibrant school community.
Thank you to students who actively participate in a variety of ways that lead to a great school spirit. Please encourage your child to participate and be an active member of our school community.
To those of you who have submitted the verification forms, thank you. If you have not had the time or opportunity to do so, please take a moment to complete them and send them to us. They were emailed to you on September 16 should you need a reference point to check your email. These forms are important so we are aware of any changes to your personal information or that the information in our system is correct. Thank you for your cooperation and assistance in completing these by November 1.
On October 29 all our grade 10 students will be attending a webinar “a Future That Fits”. This is an information session to assist students in educational and career planning.
Discover the exciting opportunities available for incoming high school students! Throughout November, the HDSB will host High School Information Nights to share insights into academic courses, extracurricular activities and pathways to post-secondary education. Join us to explore what each school offers and how we support student success during this key transition. Learn more: https://bit.ly/4hhqjxu
From Student Services
Interested in scholarship information? Throughout the school year, TAB Guidance Counsellors will be updating this google doc with various scholarship opportunities. This is a LIVE document and will be edited frequently.
A Future that Fits
Save the Date: Tuesday, October 29th, 2024 for Oakville schools
Grade 10 classes will take part in A Future that Fits on Tuesday, October 29, 2024 in Period 1. This event will showcase the many opportunities offered by the Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM), Ontario Youth Apprenticeship (OYAP) and Specialty Pathways programs (Dual Credit) in HDSB.
Technology Requirement for Students:
Please remind your child to bring their own technology for this virtual event to view the presentation. (Note: This includes laptops/chromebooks and headphones/earbuds/listening devices.)
The google form to request technology for this event was sent out last week and is now closed.
Take Our Kids to Work Day
The Halton District School Board is proud to be involved in Take Our Kids to Work Day, November 6, 2024. Grade 9 students will go to work with a parent, relative, or other trusted adult. Students who are unable to accompany a parent, relative, family friend to their workplace will be supported in finding a placement, where possible. Virtual placements are also an option with family approval. Please ensure that the Take Our Kids to Work Day Permission Form is signed and returned to T.A. Blakelock by the following date: October 28. Electronic copies of the permission form can be found on the school website at www.tab.hdsb.ca. Please do not hesitate to contact us at 905-827-1158 or at tabhs@hdsb.ca if you have any questions, comments or concerns.
Scholarship Update
Interested in scholarship information? Throughout the school year, TAB Guidance Counsellors will be updating this google doc with various scholarship opportunities. This is a LIVE document and will be edited frequently.
Guidance Appointment Booking
If you would like to book a Guidance Appointment, please see the specific Counsellor Booking links below:
Christine McAllan: https://bit.ly/BookwithMcallan (Students with last names A - B )
Shu Yen Chen-Allen: https://bit.ly/BookWithChenAllen (Students with last names C - Mc)
Diana Svendsen: https://bit.ly/BookwithSvens (Students with last names Me - Z)
* Please note that there were technical issues with Ms. McAllan and Ms. Svendsen’s booking links this week. The links above are new and working. Previously links will not connect to our current booking pages.
Community Involvement
Students can submit Community Involvement Hours using the following link: https://bit.ly/TABCommunityHours. Additional information regarding this graduation requirement can be found here.
Just a reminder for a list of activities, events and athletic schedules happening at TAB, our website tab.hdsb.ca can be a helpful resource to parents/guardians and students for school related information and updates. Please check it frequently to stay informed. Also please be sure to follow us on social media - Twitter - @TABTigerLife and Instagram - @blakelocktigers.
Thank you,
John Stieva
Principal
T.A.Blakelock High School
October 18 2024
Dear T.A.Blakelock Families,
Yesterday evening, October17th was parent/teacher interviews. Thank you to parents who were able to attend and for showing an interest in their child's education. If you were unable to be present and would like to know how your student is progressing, please reach out to the classroom teacher by email or phone the school. If you were in attendance but the teacher you wanted to see was fully booked, please contact them to make alternate arrangements. Your students have their teacher email addresses if you need them.
On Friday October 24th our Eco-Club is planning an anti-litter day. They have encouraged all period 1 classes to go out for the period and pick up litter around the school. This event is set to coincide with the annual Take Me Outside Day, a day and week long event that promotes the importance of outdoor education making connections to environment and climate change, health and well-being and Indigenous knowledge and perspectives.
This past week many of our sports teams were in action. As a result many of our teams will be moving on to semi-finals next week in their pursuit of championships. A complete schedule is always posted on our website with dates, times and locations for your information.
Thursday October 24th, is our I-STEM information evening for grade 8 students graduating to grade 9 who are interested in learning more about the I-STEM program. If you know someone who is interested in this valuable and requested program, please encourage them to attend our info evening. Applications for the I-STEM program will open up online on October 25th.
On Thursday October 10th at 7:00pm our School Council held their inaugural meeting. Elections were held and the following positions were filled: Chair- Vineet Guliani, Secretary/Treasurer- Kristina Kriston. Thank you both for allowing your names to stand and accepting the elected positions. Our next meeting is scheduled for November 14th in the library and we would be pleased to see as many parents as can make the time for an informative evening as we discuss our school. Thank you for all your support and if you have any questions, concerns or issues that you would like to address at School Council, you may contact me at stievej@hdsb.ca.
From Student Success
Mandarin Mental Health Info Session
The Centre For Skills Development will be holding an online Mandarin mental health information session on Oct 30th from 6:30 pm-8:00 pm. Please click here for the flyer and registration link
University of Toronto Events
U of T's Future Black Applicant Day is occuring on October 27th from 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM at Hart House. Register through uoft.me/FutureBlack2024
Future Indigenous Applicant Day is on November 22 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Hart House. Register through uoft.me/IndigenousApplicants24
Scholarship Update
Interested in scholarship information? Throughout the school year, TAB Guidance Counsellors will be updating this google doc with various scholarship opportunities. This is a LIVE document and will be edited frequently.
Guidance Appointment Booking
If you would like to book a Guidance Appointment, please see the specific Counsellor Booking links below:
Christine McAllan: https://bit.ly/BookwithMcallan (Students with last names A - B )
Shu Yen Chen-Allen: https://bit.ly/BookWithChenAllen (Students with last names C - Mc)
Diana Svendsen: https://bit.ly/BookwithSvens (Students with last names Me - Z)
* Please note that there were technical issues with Ms. McAllan and Ms. Svendsen’s booking links this week. The links above are new and working. Previously links will not connect to our current booking pages.
Interested in a Career in Policing?
The Halton Regional Police Services (HRPS) are holding an information session for Grade 12 high school students in Halton Region who are interested in policing. One parent or guardian is welcome to attend as space is limited. Please register via email at policerecruiting@haltonpolice.ca with preferred date, your high school name, grade and the name(s) of those attending. A telephone number is required for registration purposes. The session will be held on Wednesday, November 13th, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. in the Community Room of the HRPS Headquarters, 2484 North Service Road West, Oakville.
Student Life Expo
The Student Life Expo is October 27th at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. A limited number of free tickets are available in the Guidance Office. More info is available at www.StudentLifeExpo.com.
HDSB families, students, staff and community members are invited to the first session of the Director’s Panel series for the 2024-2025 school year: Schools, Human Rights and the Canadian Charter. This virtual session will be livestreamed on Monday, Oct. 21 at 6 p.m. and will explore how human rights and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms are applied within HDSB schools. Through thoughtful discussion and open dialogue, the panel will delve into emerging challenges and consider best practices for upholding human rights in a way that supports both individual freedoms and the collective well-being of our school communities. Learn more at hdsb.ca (search: Director’s Panel).
Just a reminder for a list of activities, events and athletic schedules happening at TAB, our website tab.hdsb.ca can be a helpful resource to parents/guardians and students for school related information and updates. Please check it frequently to stay informed. Also please be sure to follow us on social media - Twitter - @TABTigerLife and Instagram - @blakelocktigers.
I am impressed to see that most students take pride in their school and take care to behave appropriately. It is a community and occasionally conflict does happen but is often resolved without it becoming a major issue. So thank you for the guidance you provide your children and help them reach an acceptable solution.
Thank you,
John Stieva
Principal
T.A.Blakelock High School
October 11, 2024
This past week has been a busy one for our sports teams. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday had teams playing at other schools with only a few having home games.
One issue that has come up concerns our “Buy-In” games. It is the expectation that students who attend games during school hours must abide by the following expectations:
Purchase a ticket and take the bus to the game. Students who go on their own will not be excused from class but will be marked absent. The only exception would be if you contact the school and sign the student out.
Students who attend the game and are transported on the bus must return to the school on the bus. If classes are still in session, they must attend their class until the end of day.
Thank you for your support and reinforcing those expectations with your students.
This Thursday October 17th is the scheduled Parent/Teacher interviews. It has come to our attention that some teacher timeslots have all been filled. If you would like to have a private conversation with a staff member, alternate arrangements can be made. Please feel free to email the teacher directly about setting up an appointment with them.
Just a reminder that last years 2023/2024 Yearbooks have arrived and can be picked up at the main office. Students currently attending Blakelock can pick up their yearbooks before or after class or at lunchtime. Students who have already graduated can pick up any time during the day or can contact the office and designate someone else to pick up their yearbook on their behalf.
Also a reminder that next Friday October 18th is the Photo Retake Day. The photographer from Edge Imaging will be here in the morning to give students the opportunity to re-take their school photo or get a photo taken if you missed the first photo day. These pictures go in the 24/25 yearbook and on your T.A.B student I.D cards so please make sure that you have had your photo taken on at least one of the photo days.
Your student is invited to join us on a once-in-a-lifetime international travel experience with their peers to Europe’s Mediterranean Coast in 2025! This trip will give students the chance to learn by experience – they will expand their perspective of the world around them, discover more about themselves, and grow confident and independent. There is incredible growth that comes with seeing the world, exploring new places and experiencing new cultures - and I’m excited to bring that opportunity to your family and our community. To give you all the information you need, and answer all your questions, we will be hosting a parent meeting that will cover:
What we’ll see and experience on our trip
How this opportunity will benefit your child
Why now is the right time to start planning
How your investment will be protected
How we’re keeping this safe and affordable
Our meeting will be held in the Studio Theatre on Wednesday October 23rd, 2024 at 6:00pm at T. A Blakelock High School - there are limited spots available on the trip so don’t miss your opportunity to reserve your spot. One parent must be in attendance. To receive updates about the meeting, you must register using this link: https://bit.ly/3TZ1QTy Please feel free to share the RSVP link with anyone from the TAB community you think might be interested in having their child join in this opportunity! Can’t make the meeting but want more information? Register and select “No but send info.” Can't wait to see you there!
From Student Success
Scholarship Update
Throughout the school year, HDSB Guidance Counsellors will be updating this google doc with various scholarship opportunities. This is a LIVE document and will be edited frequently.
Further information on scholarships can be found on the Halton District School Board resources webpage.
In addition, TAB Guidance will post some scholarship information to this weekly message. Additional info will be sent to students via their school email account. Here are a few scholarships to pay attention to in the next few weeks:
The Loran Scholarship - Deadline for application is October 15, 2024, before 8:00PM EST
Guidance Appointment Booking
If you would like to book a Guidance Appointment, please see the specific Counsellor Booking links below:
Christine McAllan: https://bit.ly/BookwithMcallan (Students with last names A - B )
Shu Yen Chen-Allen: https://bit.ly/BookWithChenAllen (Students with last names C - Mc)
Diana Svendsen: https://bit.ly/BookwithSvens (Students with last names Me - Z)
Just a reminder for a list of activities, events and athletic schedules happening at TAB, our website tab.hdsb.ca can be a helpful resource to parents/guardians and students for school related information and updates. Please check it frequently to stay informed. Also please be sure to follow us on social media - Twitter - @TABTigerLife and Instagram - @blakelocktigers.
Have a great long weekend and see you Thursday October 17th at the Parent/Interview evening!
John Stieva
Principal
T.A.Blakelock H.S
October 5, 2024
It has been a pleasure this past week to meet with some of our student leaders. We were able to discuss various issues and possible strategies to engage and increase student engagement and school spirit. One of their suggestions, and one I will be supporting is a school "Buy-In". A buy-in would entail encouraging students, for a small fee, to attend various TAB sporting events as spectators. By purchasing a "ticket" to a buy-in event, students would be excused from class for a period of time to attend one of the games in which our sports teams are competing.
Students who take advantage of this opportunity are expected to catch up on any missed academic work. Where classes have evaluations planned for that period, those students will need to go to class or speak to their teacher to determine if alternate arrangements can be made to write the evaluations. With enough notice my hope is that staff can plan their evaluations around these buy-in events.
As always, parents are certainly invited to attend our games and a complete list of days, times and locations for all teams are posted on our TAB website on the school calendar.
On the construction front, things are progressing nicely. Two labs were ready this past Monday and classes are now being conducted in those locations. There are some minor items that need to be addressed in other renovated areas but in co-operation with our plant facility staff they should be remedied within a few weeks.
Friday October 11th is a Professional Activity Day for staff and there will be no classes for students. Our planned learnings for that day are posted on our website. These days are important for staff collaboration and to plan learning outcomes for students to achieve greater success in their academics.
If you are interested in supporting the school or wish to know more abour secondary education, our School Council meeting is happening on October 10th starting at 7:00pm in the cafeteria.
Just a reminder that last years 2023/2024 Yearbooks have arrived and can be picked up at the main office. Students currently attending Blakelock can pick up their yearbooks before or after class or at lunchtime. Students who have already graduated can pick up any time during the day or can contact the office and designate someone else to pick up their yearbook on their behalf.
From Student Success
Grade 12 Post Secondary Presentation
Our Grade 12 students took part in our Grade 12 post secondary presentation this week. The slides of this presentation are here. Please let us know if you have any questions.
Scholarship Update
Throughout the school year, HDSB Guidance Counsellors will be updating this google doc with various scholarship opportunities. This is a LIVE document and will be edited frequently.
Further information on scholarships can be found on the Halton District School Board resources webpage.
In addition, TAB Guidance will post some scholarship information to this weekly message. Additional info will be sent to students via their school email account. Here are a few scholarships to pay attention to in the next few weeks:
The Loran Scholarship - Deadline for application is October 15, 2024, before 8:00PM EST
The University of Toronto’s National Book Award - Deadline to complete this school sponsored application to Guidance: October 7, 2024 at 3:00PM.
The University of Toronto’s Lester B. Pearson International Student Scholarship - Deadline to complete this school sponsored application to Guidance: October 8, 2024 at 8:00AM.
Guidance Appointment Booking
If you would like to book a Guidance Appointment, please see the specific Counsellor Booking links below:
Christine McAllan: https://bit.ly/BookwithMcallan (Students with last names A - B )
Shu Yen Chen-Allen: https://bit.ly/BookWithChenAllen (Students with last names C - Mc)
Diana Svendsen: https://bit.ly/BookwithSvens (Students with last names Me - Z)
* Please note that there were technical issues with Ms. McAllan and Ms. Svendsen’s booking links this week. The links above are new and working. Previous links will not connect to our current booking pages.
Just a reminder that the T.A. Blakelock website tab.hdsb.ca can be a helpful resource to parents/guardians and students for school related information and updates. Please check it frequently to stay informed. Also please be sure to follow us on social media - Twitter - @TABTigerLife and Instagram - @blakelocktigers.
Have a great weekend!
John Stieva
Principal
September 27, 2024
Dear T.A.B Families,
This morning as I wrote this letter, the students were preparing for the Terry Fox Run/Walk. We are still optimistic about reaching our goal but do still have a way to go. If you would like to assist us by making a donation, it can be done by going to our website and opening the donation link. Thank you for supporting our students and demonstrating that together we can make a difference.
Monday September 30th has been declared “Orange Shirt Day. “The orange shirt has become a symbol of hope, reconciliation and a commitment to a better future.” - Curtis Ennis. We would encourage all staff and students to wear orange that day to demonstrate their support for reconciliation and commit to the enduring truth that Every Child Matters.
Last evening our Guidance Staff presented information concerning the college and university applications process, it was well attended. If you were unable to attend, the information is posted on our website and linked below in the Student Success information section of this newsletter.
Our first School Council meeting will be held on Thursday October 10th in the cafeteria. At our first meeting we will need to elect a Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer. If you are interested in being nominated for one or more of those positions please let me know so I can add your name to the ballot. Our first meeting will be in person only and we will then make the decision about future meetings and virtual broadcasts. I am looking forward to meeting many of you that evening and getting to learn more about the T.A.B community.
On October 10th, staff will be emailing families the 5th week reports. All grade 9’s will receive this report, however only students in grades 10-12 with a grade that is 60% or below will receive a 5th week report. If you have any questions or concerns, please call or email the teachers. They will respond to your inquiry within 24 hours by calling you or email. If you have further concern, please do not hesitate to call or email me directly to discuss the situation so we can arrive together at a reasonable solution.
Parent/Teacher Interviews are scheduled for October 17th and a week prior to that you will have an opportunity to schedule individual interviews.
From Student Success:
eLearning Opt Out Form:
Students are required to earn two eLearning credits to graduate from secondary school as part of the 30 credits required for the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). * Students may opt out of this requirement using this Opt-out Form. This form is due on November 25, 2024 for students graduating this year).
40 Hours of Community Involvement
Students can submit Community Hours using the following link: https://bit.ly/TABCommunityHours.
Please note that for graduating students, Hours are due to Guidance by April 1, 2025. In addition, the HDSB will no longer be recording Hours past the 40 required for Graduation. Students who have completed additional Hours are urged to keep a record of these activities independently in case they would like to use them for scholarship applications, etc in their Grade 12 year.
New HDSB process: External Credits
Students who are completing courses outside the HDSB in the regular school year must complete the HDSB External Credit Declaration Form. Final report cards are due to the Guidance office on the last day of regular classes in the semester the student is taking the course to ensure the course is included on the student’s Graduation Summary. Please refer to the form for additional details.
Grade 12 Post Secondary Presentation
Thank you to the parents, guardians and students who attended our Grade 12 Post Secondary Presentation on Thursday night. The slides of this presentation are here. Please note that this presentation will be delivered to Grade 12 students through Grade Assemblies in Period 5 on October 1 and 2. Students with spares or eLearning classes will be invited to attend a specific day via their HDSB email account.
Guidance Appointment Booking
If you would like to book a Guidance Appointment, please see the specific Counsellor Booking links below:
Ms. McAllan (Students with surnames beginning A-B):
https://bit.ly/BookWithMcAllan
Ms. Chen-Allen (Students with surnames beginning C-Mc):
https://bit.ly/BookWithChenAllen
Mrs. Svendsen (Students with surnames beginning Me-Z):
https://bit.ly/BookWithSvendsen
Just a reminder that the T.A. Blakelock website tab.hdsb.ca can be a helpful resource to parents/guardians and students for school related information and updates. Please check it frequently to stay informed. Also please be sure to follow us on social media - Twitter - @TABTigerLife and Instagram - @blakelocktigers.
Have a great weekend!
John Stieva
Principal
September 20, 2024
Dear T.A.B Families,
It has been another positive week with students settling into their classes, school activities and sports. I want to thank the students for the Club Fair, explaining the faces of the club and recruiting new members. Also a thank you to staff advisors who give of their free time so students can participate in clubs and teams.
This coming week we have one major event planned for Friday September 27th which is the Terry Fox Run and Walk. This year we will not be asking you to complete a permission form. Instead, we will assume that all students are allowed to participate unless you indicate otherwise by emailing me at stievaj@hdsb.ca to inform us that your child is not allowed to leave school grounds. There is a modified school schedule for that day, shown below and can also be found on our website. To complete the walk, we will have 3 food trucks here for students to purchase lunch. There are also activities planned to engage students to foster and build our sense of T.A.B community. A map of the prepared route is shown below. Please remind your child that they are representing the school in the community and we want to leave a positive impression with our neighbours.
Donations may be made by using the following link. We need your help to meet our goal of $20,000, thank you for your support.
The football team played their first game today at Bronte Sports Field today at 2:00pm! Go Tigers!
Reminder to please complete the Start Up forms that were sent on September 4th and Verification forms on September 16th. These are important forms that the school requires to have up to date emergency information for your student, and to give permission to participate in school activities.
The T.A. Blakelock website tab.hdsb.ca can be a helpful resource to parents/guardians and students for school related information and updates. Please check it frequently to stay informed. Please be sure to follow us on social media - Twitter - @TABTigerLife and Instagram - @blakelocktigers and check the T.A. Blakelock High School website regularly for information and updates.
Have a great weekend!
John Stieva
Principal
T.A.Blakelock High School
September 13, 2024
Dear T.A.B families,
I want to start with an apology in that I did not write a newsletter last week. I understand from staff and students that a Friday newsletter is a tradition so I will for now maintain that expectation.
The past two weeks have been a very positive start to the school year. Students and staff have settled into the routine of a school day.
In the past week we have had picture day, teams are practicing and this coming Tuesday we will have a club fair. This is an excellent opportunity to gather information about clubs that run in the school, the times and days that they meet and the focus of the clubs. Please encourage your students to select one of interest to them and be involved, which generates a sense of belonging to the school.
Activity-wise we are looking forward to the Terry Fox Walk/Run fundraiser for cancer. Based on the amount raised in the 23/24 year, the organizers believe that we can raise $20,000.00 this year. Given the generosity of our community, that appears to be a realistic goal.
We have been fortunate in that we were able to fill all our teaching vacancies for both semesters. Welcome to all our new staff and students to one of the best schools in Ontario.
School Council dates for 24/25 meetings are: Oct.10, Nov.14, Feb.21 and Apr.24. All meetings will be in the lower level of the cafeteria and start at 7:00pm. If you are interested in serving in one of the executive positions of Chair, Secretary & Treasurer, please inform me by email. Voting will be held at our first meeting on Oct.10. Prior to the meeting I will be conducting a brief tour so you can see the renovations that have been completed and are already being used by students. If you are interested in the tour, please meet me in the cafeteria at 6:30pm.
School Council meetings are designed to acquaint yourself with the school, ask questions and make suggestions. To make the meetings interesting and of value to you, let me know “what you would like to know”.
With a new school year in full swing, Oakville Transit would like to update and remind students
of the services they could benefit from:
Ride free with PRESTO: Youth ages 13 to 19 are eligible for free transit service by travelling with a PRESTO card. PRESTO cards are available at all Shoppers Drug Mart locations in Oakville, or students may choose to download a virtual PRESTO card from the Android and iOS app stores. Youth who do not have a valid PRESTO card will be asked to pay the fare rate of $4.
School Special Routes: Oakville Transit has adjusted service to accommodate the increase in youth ridership. This includes additional school specials at the end of the school day as well as some additional specials during the lunch hour. September school special schedules are available on the Oakville Transit website.
Safety Reminders: Riders are reminded to treat Oakville Transit staff and fellow customers with respect and courtesy. To ensure the safety of all, Oakville Transit will be removing any riders who act in an inappropriate, disrespectful or unsafe manner.
Stay Connected: Riders are encouraged to follow Oakville Transit on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) for ongoing service updates. For service questions, contact Oakville Transit customer service at 905-815-2020 or email transit@oakville.ca.
Please feel free to call or email me if you have questions or wish to express a concern. I hope everyone has a great weekend.
John Stieva
Principal
Thomas A. Blakelock H.S
September 6, 2024
Dear Blakelock Families,
I am excited to begin my first year here at T.A.B as the new Principal. I have heard lots of positive comments about T.A.B, its programs, students & staff and a very supportive community. As you may know, I have come from Iroquois Ridge where I was the Principal for 6 years. I look forward to the opportunity to meet many of you at school functions and Parent’s Night.
This past summer has been busy construction-wise. Science labs are being totally renovated and the expectation is that two labs will be completed by September 12 and three others by the end of October. This amount of construction during the first weeks and months of school will require a considerable amount of flexibility both from students and staff.
Welcome to grade 9 students as together we start a new school together! Always a few days of trying to find your way and occasionally getting lost but all part of navigating a new building. Welcome back to grade 10-12’s and if you see me or others who are new to the school looking a little lost, we probably are, but we are depending on you to point the way. Kindness, compassion and respect are the foundation of a positive school climate, making high school enjoyable every day.
Tuesday September 3rd is a Professional Activity Day where staff spend the day getting ready for the return of students. Staff have a full day of learning as well as time to prepare their classrooms.
For students in our C.P.P program, September 4th is a full day with a regular schedule. For all other students we will be operating under a special schedule. Grade 9 students are expected to arrive at 8:15am and will spend the morning with the Link Crew Leaders in various activities to welcome them to T.A.B. Students in grades 10-12 will arrive at 12:00pm and all students will attend all four classes in the afternoon with a shortened schedule. Buses will run on a regular schedule, any students grades 10-12 who take a bus and will be here in the morning are welcome to wait in the cafeteria. Please note that the servery will not be open and there will be no food service this day.
For students who are bussed to school and require further information about bus stops or schedule, please contact www.haltonbus.ca or call Halton Transportation at 1-888-803-8660.
Updated student timetables for the 2024-25 school year will be emailed to student HDSB email accounts by September 1st.
Students can request course changes via this Google Form: https://bit.ly/TABCourseChanges2024-25
Please note that many courses have waitlists. If a request for a specific course has previously been submitted and it does not appear on the timetable, the student has been added to the waitlist for that course. Guidance will contact the student if/when a space is available.
Guidance Counsellors will be unable to process requests submitted via email. The Guidance team is meeting with new students and also working to process course requests as quickly as possible. Your patience is appreciated.
Guidance Counsellors for the 2024-25 school year are listed below should you have additional questions:
Ms. Christine McAllan - Students with last names beginning A - B.
Ms. Shu Yen Chen-Allen - Students with last names beginning C - Mc.
Ms. Diana Svendsen - Students with last names beginning Me - Z.
Once the school year begins, students can also visit the Guidance office if they have additional questions.
Timetable change requests for Semester 1 will be processed up to Thursday, September 12, 2024 at 4pm.
The online appointment booking calendar will be available for student/parent booking beginning on September 16th. Additional information will be provided to students and families closer to this date.
On September 4th we will be emailing families the first of two yearly start up google forms. These forms are to authorize photo use, and participation in outdoor activities and walking excursions. Please read through them carefully and submit electronically no later than Sept. 23rd. In class, students will receive a permission form to be returned to their homeroom teacher as soon as possible. This is an intramural form to participate in school activities including the annual Terry Fox Run. The second start up google form is the verification form to verify and correct personal information including addresses, phone numbers and emails. This form will be communicated later in September.
Student card photos have been scheduled for Tuesday Sept.10th. All students must have a student card to be admitted to school functions after school or during the evenings.
Please submit $20.00 on School Cash Online for the School Engagement Fee. These funds allow us to offer students extra curricular activities, support clubs with start up fees, bring in speakers for student assemblies, offset the expenses for whole school events. We greatly appreciate your support and generosity in supporting your school.
Looking forward to another great year!
John Stieva
Principal
T.A. Blakelock High School
August 30, 2024
To Students & Staff:
Recently the Ministry of Education issued the following directions concerning the use of cell phones in Secondary Schools.
All members of the school community must not use mobile devices during instructional time except under the following circumstances:
For instructional purposes as directed by your classroom teacher
For health or medical purposes
To support special education needs
Grade 9-12 students personal mobile devices should be stored out of view and powered off or set to silent mode during instructional time, except where you have received permission from the classroom teacher.
In consultation with students and staff we will be developing school expectations for use of personal mobile devices and possible consequences if these guidelines are not adhered to by students.
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