From the Principal...

November 3, 2023

Start of November Message to TAB Families

Dear T.A. Blakelock Tigers Community,

I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone for another productive week here at the school.  We’ve had students participating in a number of field trips and other experiential learning activities this week - which is fantastic! 

We want to thank the Ontario Provincial Honour Band for visiting the school this past Friday and putting on a wonderful music performance for the staff and students at T.A. Blakelock! 

The renovations at the school continue and we are excited to announce that we expect two more classrooms to be completed and ready to be used starting on Monday.

Please take a look at the information below related to upcoming events and opportunities here at the school.

Student Services Update:

e-Learning Opt Out Form:

• Current Grade 12 students who would like to opt out of e-Learning courses are asked to complete the opt out form by November 23, 2023 at the latest.  

• Students in Grades 9 - 11 may continue to submit this form until the Fall of their Grade 12 year.

Community Involvement Hours

• Students are asked to submit Community Involvement Hours through this Google form: https://bit.ly/TABCommunityHours

Grade 10 Event: A Future that Fits

• Grade 10 classes will take part in A Future that Fits on November 9, 2023 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 in HDSB.

• This event requires that each student have access to a laptop or Chromebook as well as headphones/earbuds. Grade 10 students were asked to complete this Google Form - https://bit.ly/AFutureThatFits2023 -  by November 1 so that we can ensure all students have the needed technology.  If your students have not completed this form, please have them do so by the evening of November 6th.  

Scholarship Info

• Grade 12 students are urged to check in on upcoming scholarship opportunities.  Many scholarships go unclaimed each year.  Please have a look to see if you meet the criteria! https://bit.ly/TABScholarships

• The Halton District School Board has also created a collated Scholarship website.  Students/Parents are urged to review the site frequently for updates and additions as this is your one-stop-shop when it comes to accessing financial resources to help pay for your Post-Secondary Education.

Messaging from Student Council:

Career Fair

• The Student Council is in the process of organizing a Career/Elective Course Fair for all students in late November at lunch in the large gym. Our goal is to show students all the interesting electives they can take throughout high school and to help them become familiar with different career paths. We are looking to have members of our community display their current or former occupations and get involved in this event. This would include having a booth, and speaking to students about meaningful experiences and steps you need to take to become that occupation. If you are interested in participating in this event, please fill out the following google form https://forms.gle/qt3wkx1ojDz4w5iD9 or contact 1sheppardju1@hdsb.ca (Julia - Co-Prime Minister). Thank you for your consideration! 

Coffee House:

• The Student Council is running a Coffee House on November 23rd from 6-8pm. This event will include artistic performances (singing, playing an instrument, dancing, poetry, etc.), an art exhibit, and a chance for students who run a small business to promote themselves. We are in the process of gathering students who would like to participate in this event, so please inform any students who may be interested in this and direct them to our Instagram page (@tabtigers). Our Instagram has lots of information regarding the Coffee House, including the following Google Form sign-up https://forms.gle/z3RjiXW2QbBjbQK79 , which students should fill out if they wish to participate!
  
  

Athletics and Phys Ed Information:

• A BIG SHOUT OUT to Ethan Deveaux for his efforts this week at the OFSSA Cross Country Running Championships! 

• Ethan won the gold at GHAC last week and we are very proud of him. 

• Go Tigers!

Lunchtime Gym:

• The gymnasium will be open and supervised for any student wishing to stay active on their lunch break Monday through Friday starting next week.  

• The gym opens at 11:30am.  Our student athletic council will be organizing some intramurals as well. 

Information and Links:  

• 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.

• If you have a child in grade 8 who is interested in applying for the I-STEM program, you can find more information by using the following I-STEM information link.

We look forward to seeing everyone on Monday. 

Sincerely,

Paul Dawson
Principal - T.A. Blakelock High School

October 22 Message to TAB Community

Dear T.A. Blakelock Tigers Community,

I hope that you are doing well.  Thank you to everyone who came out for our parent/guardian - teacher interviews on Thursday night.  With the renovations taking place, it was our first opportunity to welcome everyone into the school and continue to discuss the great work that our staff and students are doing together.

The renovations continue to make progress and we look forward being able to showcase all of the newly renovated spaces soon.  We very much appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding as we do our best to navigate these exciting changes to the school.

Please take a look at the following information.

I-STEM information night for grade 8’s

• Join us at the I-STEM Open House on Thursday, Oct. 26 at 6:30p.m. at Blakelock to learn about the Sept. 2024 application for HDSB’s regional high school program. Details here: http://bit.ly/ISTEMhdsb #ISTEMhdsb

Take Our Kids to Work Day:

• Take Our Kids to Work Day will be held on November 1, 2023.

• Please review the following Take Our Kids to Work Day handout for more information.  

Music Department Update:

• November 3rd, at 10:00am the Ontario Provincial Honour Band is coming to TAB to perform on their way to Niagara Falls. 

• This auditioned concert band is a collection of 75 students from all over Ontario who work together over a week in Toronto with Dr. Shelley Axelson and culminate their performances at the Ontario Educators Music Association conference. 

• If you are interested in attending this performance, please email Mrs. Abbott at abbotta@hdsb.ca to confirm your seats. All are welcome to this complimentary event!

I-STEM Update:

• I-STEM students have been launching various types of rockets at school, concluding with our combustion rocket launch on Tuesday!  

• Our students have experimented with different variables to see which affect the height their rockets reach.  We concluded our rocket research with a guest speaker today, Neil Woodcock, who is a rocketry engineer.  Neil is a founding partner of Polaris Aerospace and works directly with Bombardier aviation.  

• Our I-STEM students begin a new design challenge next week - collaborating with Halton Conservation and grade 11 Biology students.

Student Services Update:

• The National Centre for Women and Information Technology’s Aspirations in Computing High School Award honours genderqueer and non-binary individuals in grades nine to twelve, for their computing-related achievements and interests, and encourages them to pursue their passions. Applications are open September 1 to November 6.

Scholarship Update 

• Additional scholarships have been added to our scholarship resource. 

Transcript Requests

• Students who require a transcript are asked to please complete this Google form: https://bit.ly/TABTranscript

Athletics and Phys Ed Information:

• Fall season sports are wrapping up next week.  A few teams will be heading into playoffs the first week of November.  Congratulations to all athletes on a successful and fun season.  Just a reminder to athletes when they are done their season to bring their uniform back to their coach after their last game.

• The winter season is fast approaching.  At TAB this year we will be offering the following sports: 

• Bantam, Junior and Senior Girls Volleyball

• Bantam, Junior and Senior Boys Basketball

• Swimming

• Ski and Snowboard Team

• Varsity Girls Hockey

• Senior Boys Hockey

• Please encourage your child/ward to try out for a team and get involved in Tigers Athletics.

Lunchtime Gym:

• The gymnasium will be open and supervised for any student wishing to stay active on their lunch break Monday through Friday starting next week.  

• The gym opens at 11:30am.  Our student athletic council will be organising some intramurals as well. 

Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT) Update:

• We will be running preparatory sessions for any students who will be writing the OSSLT this year. 

• These sessions will provide support and practice so students can better prepare for the test. 

• They will run on Tuesdays and Fridays at lunch in room S119, beginning on October 24. 

• Please contact Mr. Alchesi, Mrs. Barry or Mrs. Sagar with any questions. 

Halton Region Immunization Requirement

• Families were notified by HDSB in September that students in grades 9-12 must have up-to-date immunization records with Halton Region Public Health.

• Just a reminder that we do not need to see your students immunization records at the school. 

• Parents and Guardians should report vaccines online at halton.ca/immunize

• If this is not done by the December 2023 deadline, students may be suspended from school at the direction of Halton Public Health.

Information and Links:  

• 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.

Thank you for another great week and we look forward to seeing you this coming Thursday.
​​​​​​​ 

Sincerely,

Paul Dawson
Principal - T.A. Blakelock High School

October 15th Message to TAB Families

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,

Hello T.A. Blakelock community.  Thank-you for another productive week here at the school.  It was a short week with Monday being a holiday, however many things were happening at the school. Thank you to all of the students, staff and community members for their efforts this week.

I also wanted to share some unfortunate news with you.  This past week, we had some significant vandalism done to one of the male washrooms in the East wing of the school.  We are doing our best to gather information related to this incident, please take some time to speak to your child(ren) about this incident.  Should they have anything to share about this vandalism, we would very much appreciate learning about it.  Such acts cause us to divert resources to the repair of these areas and at times have to close washrooms because they are not fit to be used.  

Any information is always appreciated.

Please take a look at the following information.

Parent/Guardian- Teacher Interviews:

• Parent/Guardian-Teacher Interviews will take place on Thursday October 19 starting at 6:15pm.

• There will be an informal meet and greet opportunity at the beginning of the evening, with opportunities to book more formal interview times with teachers to be provided.

• We look forward to seeing all of the parents/guardians and students this coming Thursday.

I-STEM information night for grade 8’s:

• Join us at the I-STEM Open House on Thursday, Oct. 26 at 6:30p.m. at Blakelock to learn about the Sept. 2024 application for HDSB’s regional high school program. Details here: http://bit.ly/ISTEMhdsb #ISTEMhdsb
  
  

Take Our Kids to Work Day:

• Take Our Kids to Work Day will be held on November 1, 2023.

• Please review the following Take Our Kids to Work Day handout for more information. 
  
  

Student Services Update:

• Guidance has been visiting with Grade 12 classes in the last few weeks in order to present important information regarding post secondary planning and application.  A copy of the presentation is here for your reference. 

• Please note that this is the original presentation that was delivered to parents/guardians on the evening of September 28, 2023.

• Students in morning Co-op will see this presentation on October 18 in Period 1. 

• Guidance will host one final presentation on October 20 in Period 2 in the caf for any Grade 12 student who was not present for their class visit or who did not attend on their spare or e-learning period on October 11.

• If you have any questions, please contact your student’s Guidance Counsellor through the contact details provided in the presentation.
  
  

Scholarship Update 

The University of Toronto’s National Book Award - Deadline for non school sponsored applications submitted directly to U of T: October 19, 2023 (11:59pm EDT)

The University of Toronto’s Lester B. Pearson International Student Scholarship - Deadline for school sponsored application to Guidance: November 1, 2023 at 3:00pm. 

Transcript Requests

Students who require a transcript are asked to please complete this Google form:
https://bit.ly/TABTranscript

Athletics and Phys Ed Information:

• Our student athletes continue to represent themselves and the school with great pride on the court, the field and trails.

• For more information about all athletic schedules please feel free to go to hssaa.ca.
  
  

Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT) Update:

OSSLT Save the Date!

• The semester 1 session of the Ontario Secondary School Literacy test will take place on November 22 and 23. 

• All grade 10 students who are currently taking an English course will write the test with their class. 

• Students who are in grades 11 and 12 who have not yet completed their literacy requirements will have the opportunity to write on those days as well. 

• More details, including opportunities for preparation and support, will be sent out over the next few weeks. 

• Students who intend to graduate in February and have not yet met their literacy requirement, please email Mrs. Barry or Mrs. Sagar ASAP to discuss options.
  
  

Information and Links:  

• 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.
  
  

Thank you for another great week and we look forward to seeing you this coming Thursday.

Sincerely,

Paul Dawson
Principal - T.A. Blakelock High School

October 8, 2023

Thanksgiving Message to TAB Families

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,

Hello Tigers!  We hope that you are all having an enjoyable long weekend. This is a friendly reminder that Monday Oct. 9 is Thanksgiving Monday and there will be no school that day.  There are some important dates coming up related to 5th week reports and parent/guardian-teacher interviews. 

Please take a look at the following information.

5th Week Reports:

• Please note that 5th week report communication will be going home via email by Thursday Oct. 12.

• Parents/guardians of all grade 9 students will receive a 5th week update.

• Parents/guardians of students in grade 10, 11 and 12 will only receive a 5th week report should the teacher have some specific areas of growth to discuss.

• Please stay tuned for these updates.

Parent/Guardian- Teacher Interviews:

• Parent/guardian-teacher interviews will take place on Thursay October 19 from 6:15pm to 8:15pm.

• There will be an informal meet and greet opportunity at the beginning of the evening, with opportunities to book more formal interview times with teachers to be provided.

• More information about how to book an appointment with your child(ren)’s will be coming out the week of Oct. 9.

Construction at Rebecca St. and Lees Lane:

• There has been signage on Rebecca Street notifying motorists of construction that will be starting the week of October 9.

• These are Region of Halton projects and we are sharing this information for your awareness as it may impact drop-off and pick-up times at the school.

Take Our Kids to Work Day:

• Take Our Kids to Work Day will be held on November 1, 2023.

• Please review the following Take Our Kids to Work Day handout for more information.  

Student Services Update:

Community Hours Opportunities

• The HDSB’s Welcome Centre is offering opportunities for students to be Conversation Club Volunteers.  For more info, please visit this link.  

Hang Out Space for students new to Canada and HDSB

• The HDSB’s Welcome Centre is offering a virtual Hang Out Space for newcomer students.  For more information, please visit this link. 

Scholarship Update 

• The Loran Scholarship - Deadline for application is October 11, 2023, before 8:00pm EST

• The University of Toronto’s National Book Award - Deadline for non school sponsored applications submitted directly to U of T: October 19, 2023 (11:59pm EDT)

• The University of Toronto’s Lester B. Pearson International Student Scholarship - Deadline for school sponsored application to Guidance: November 1, 2023 at 3:00pm.  

Athletics and Phys Ed Information:

Athletics

• The Junior Football team has their first game on Thursday, October 5th.  This is very exciting as we haven't had a football team in a few years.  

• Many other basketball, volleyball and field hockey games are next week also.  Please check out the www.hssaa.ca website for dates, times and locations.

Volunteers

• As sports are getting going, teams will be asking for volunteer drivers and the coaches very much appreciate the support from families.  

• It’s important to remember that students are not permitted to drive other students to or from a school sanctioned game or practice.  

• If you wish to become a volunteer driver, we require each driver to go through the Parent Volunteer Protocol outlined below.  

• Volunteers should drop documents off at the office directly.

All volunteers within the school or chaperoning any trip on or off site MUST submit the following:

• A Volunteer Application Form 

• A Halton Regional Police Check with the Vulnerable Sector Screening

If volunteers will be driving students somewhere, they need the first two documents PLUS:

• A Volunteer Driver Declaration (attached to your child/ward’s permission form)

If volunteers have submitted police checks to the main office in the past 3 years, they can submit a signed: 

• HDSB Annual Offense Declaration

• However any police checks dated before 2019 will need to be updated by the volunteers with a new one in our files.

Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT) Update:

OSSLT Save the Date!

• The semester 1 session of the Ontario Secondary School Literacy test will take place on November 22 and 23. 

• All grade 10 students who are currently taking an English course will write the test with their class. 

• Students who are in grades 11 and 12 who have not yet completed their literacy requirements will have the opportunity to write on those days as well. 

• More details, including opportunities for preparation and support, will be sent out over the next few weeks. 

• Students who intend to graduate in February and have not yet met their literacy requirement, please email Mrs. Barry or Mrs. Sagar ASAP to discuss options.

From Halton Student Transportation Services

Notification of Delays to Families

• Every September, when students and drivers are getting accustomed to new routines, there tends to be a higher frequency of delays. We thank families for their ongoing patience and understanding during this time. We expect Bus Operators to promptly communicate any delays and provide updates so that families have the chance to make necessary adjustments to their plans. We encourage families who have not already done so, to sign up for a Parent Portal account and add their child(ren).  This will ensure they are automatically signed up to receive email notifications when delays are posted.  For detailed instructions please click here.  

• We highly encourage anyone with a mobile device to download the free BusPlanner Delays app and sign up to receive instant notifications of route delays affecting their family. For detailed instructions please click here.

Information and Links:  

• 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.

I hope that you all have a great weekend! 

Sincerely,

Paul Dawson
Principal - T.A. Blakelock High School

October 2, 2023

Community Message - Language

Dear Parents/Guardians,

I’m writing to you today to bring awareness about an incident that took place at the school resulting in the use of the HDSB’s Discriminatory and Harmful Language Protocol.  The protocol informs the work that staff engage in and the steps that we take in the event that discriminatory and harmful language is used at school or at school related functions.  The intent of the protocol is to provide awareness to all members of the school community on the expectations that exist to create a safe and inclusive learning environment.

Recently, there was an incident at school where the ‘n-word’ was referenced. This interaction has had a significantly negative impact on those involved. The use of the ‘n-word’ - whether it be spoken aloud, written, and/or printed, be implied or referenced directly or indirectly - is not acceptable.  It causes harm and we take these incidents seriously. Engaging in these types of actions, can result in significant consequences including notifying the police, suspension or the consideration of expulsion from the school. 

These same expectations hold true to any action or use of language that is deemed to be discriminatory or harmful to anyone based on their race, religion, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, creed, family status, mental or physical ability, socioeconomic status, culture, citizenship or origin.  Such words and actions have no place in our school or community.

The students and staff at T.A. Blakelock have demonstrated the ability to achieve many great things together and to work collaboratively to create a welcoming and supportive school community.  Schools are a place of learning and sometimes the most important lessons go beyond the walls of the classroom.   

With that being said, the work related to discriminatory and harmful language will continue.  This is a shared responsibility of all stakeholders (ie: staff, students, parents and community members).  We will continue to engage in meaningful dialogue with our students, staff and school community as we work together to be better and do better.  

Please take some time to review the Discriminatory and Harmful Language Protocol and this message with your child(ren).  I hope it is an opportunity to discuss its contents and the impact that words can, and do have.  

Should you have any questions related to this message, please feel free to contact the school.

Sincerely,

Paul Dawson
Principal - T.A. Blakelock High School

October 2 Message to TAB

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,

Hello Tiger Community!  Thank you for another great week here at the school.  Thank you to our team of teachers and students who helped to organize a number of learning opportunities connected to Truth and Reconciliation Week.  You will see more information below about the upcoming P.A. Day this Friday Oct 6.  This is also a friendly reminder that next Monday Oct. 9 is Thanksgiving Monday and there will be no school that day.
​​​​​​​

P.A. Day Information:

• Friday October 6, 2023 will be a P.A. Day for T.A. Blakelock Staff.

• There will be no classes for students on this day.

• Information related to the Octber 6, 2023 P.A. Day can be found here.
  
  

Athletics and Phys Ed Information:

Athletics

• The Junior Football team has their first game on Thursday, October 5th.  This is very exciting as we haven't had a football team in a few years.  

• Many other basketball, volleyball and field hockey games are next week also.  Please check out the www.hssaa.ca website for dates, times and locations.

Volunteers

• As sports are getting going, teams will be asking for volunteer drivers and the coaches very much appreciate the support from families.  

• It’s important to remember that students are not permitted to drive other students to or from a school sanctioned game or practice.  

• If you wish to become a volunteer driver, we require each driver to go through the Parent Volunteer Protocol outlined below.  

• Volunteers should drop documents off at the office directly.

All volunteers within the school or chaperoning any trip on or off site MUST submit the following:

• A Volunteer Application Form 

• A Halton Regional Police Check with the Vulnerable Sector Screening
  
  

If volunteers will be driving students somewhere, they need the first two documents PLUS:

• A Volunteer Driver Declaration (attached to your child/ward’s permission form)

If volunteers have submitted police checks to the main office in the past 3 years, they can submit a signed: 

• HDSB Annual Offense Declaration

• However any police checks dated before 2019 will need to be updated by the volunteers with a new one in our files.

Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT) Update:

OSSLT Save the Date!

• The semester 1 session of the Ontario Secondary School Literacy test will take place on November 22 and 23. 

• All grade 10 students who are currently taking an English course will write the test with their class. 

• Students who are in grades 11 and 12 who have not yet completed their literacy requirements will have the opportunity to write on those days as well. 

• More details, including opportunities for preparation and support, will be sent out over the next few weeks. 

• Students who intend to graduate in February and have not yet met their literacy requirement, please email Mrs. Barry or Mrs. Sagar ASAP to discuss options.

Student Services Update:

Scholarship Update 

• Please check out the scholarships listed here. Please note that some scholarships close next week.
  
  

Grade 12 and 12+ Field Trip to Sheridan College

• All Grade 12 and 12+ students will be attending a field trip to Sheridan College on October 25th.  Additional information was shared with students on September 26 and is also available here.  The HDSB also sent messaging to students and parents on September 28. 

• Permission forms were distributed to students through Period 1 classes on September 26 and are due back on October 3, 2023.  

• Guidance has distributed permission forms to students who have a spare, an elearning course or a Grade 11 course in Period 1.  

• The permission form is available here if another copy is required.  Please note that this event is only for Grade 12 and 12+ students. 
  
  

Ontario Universities Application Centre Resource

• The Ontario Universities Application Centre (OUAC) has released several helpful resources to help families navigate the application process.  If you/your student is applying to an Ontario school this year, please visit 

https://guidance.ouac.on.ca/docs/student_hyperdoc_b.pdf.

Grade 12 Guidance Visits

• The Guidance Department will be visiting Grade 12 classes during the week of October 2 in Period 2.  Students who have a Grade 11 class, a spare or an elearning class in Period 2 will be contacted to attend an October 11 session in the cafeteria.
  
  

From Halton Student Transportation Services

Notification of Delays to Families

• Every September, when students and drivers are getting accustomed to new routines, there tends to be a higher frequency of delays. We thank families for their ongoing patience and understanding during this time. We expect Bus Operators to promptly communicate any delays and provide updates so that families have the chance to make necessary adjustments to their plans. We encourage families who have not already done so, to sign up for a Parent Portal account and add their child(ren).  This will ensure they are automatically signed up to receive email notifications when delays are posted.  For detailed instructions please click here.  

• We highly encourage anyone with a mobile device to download the free BusPlanner Delays app and sign up to receive instant notifications of route delays affecting their family. For detailed instructions please click here.
  
  

School Parking lot and Driveway:

• As we welcome back staff and students for the 2023-2024 school year, we just want to share a friendly reminder to be on the lookout for pedestrians as you enter and exit the school parking lot.

• Please be mindful of your speed when driving through the school parking lot and the direction arrows at each end of the parking lot.

• The parking area can be a busy place at the start and end of the school day with many students who walk and bike to school.  We want everyone to have a safe entry and exit each school day.

• We appreciate everyone’s patience at these busier times of the day.
  
  

Information and Links:  

• 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.

I hope that you all have a great week!

Sincerely,

Paul Dawson
Principal - T.A. Blakelock High School

September 24, 2023

Week 3 Message to TAB Community

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,

Hello Tiger Community!  Thank you for another great week here at the school.  We had many students participate in our Terry Fox Run/Walk and we thank everyone for their support of this event.  The T.A. Blakelock Club Fair took place this past Thursday and it was a great opportunity for students to learn more about the plethora of ways that students can get involved at the school. Students are encouraged to connect with their teachers should they have any questions about the Club Fair.

We would also like to remind everyone about the HDSB’s Code of Conduct  and Discriminatory & Harmful Language Protocol.  As situations arise, these documents contain important information about the work that takes place in schools and provides students with information about the expectations while at school.  We appreciate you taking the time to review these documents with your student(s) as well.

School Council Upcoming Events:

• Our first T.A. Blakelock School Council meeting will be held on Tuesday September 26, starting at 7:00pm.

• We will meet in person in the school cafeteria with a link to be shared for those who would like to join virtually.

• It will be an opportunity to learn more about ways to engage with the School Council, upcoming events, as well important dates and updates from staff and students.

• We look forward to seeing you on September 26.
  
  

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day 

• The HDSB observance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 29th aligns with the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation offerings.

• Students will be engaged in learning leading up to September 29th - on which the school will observe Orange Shirt Day. 

• Students will be able to take this learning and hopefully share it with families as National Day for Truth and Reconciliation /Orange Shirt Day officially falls on Saturday, September 30th this year.
  
  

Athletics and Phys Ed Information:

• Friday was a very successful event.  All Blakelock students enjoyed a beautiful walk around either the track or in our neighbourhood after attending a short assembly in the gym about Terry Fox.  

• The Grade 12 Leadership class did an excellent job running the BBQ/Pizza lunch outside with a photo booth and some games.  

• All proceeds will be going to the Terry Fox Foundation.  If you wish to donate still, please visit https://schools.terryfox.ca/41430 to donate directly to the Terry Fox Foundation.  

• Way to come together for a worthy cause, Tigers!
  
  

Athletics Update:

• The Jr. Girls Basketball team will start their season next week by hosting Georgetown.  

• Jr and Sr Boys Volleyball continue their season next week with a game at Georgetown on Monday and at Garth Webb on Wednesday.  

• The Jr and Sr Girls basketball look to host Garth Webb on Wednesday.  

• Field hockey continues their season at Bronte Athletic Field on Tuesday and Wednesday for games.  

• The Cross Country Team kicks off their season on Wednesday with the Dundas Valley Meet and Golf has tournaments on both Monday and Wednesday.  

• A busy week is approaching for our Tiger Athletes.  Good luck to all!
  
  

Student Services Update:

Queen’s Leadership, Excellence, and Development Conference (QLEAD)

• QLEAD is an annual four-day conference held in November where select grade 11 and 12 students across Canada get the opportunity to learn about business and develop their leadership capabilities. The QLEAD conference is the best representation of what being a Smith Commerce student is like, prior to entering the program.

• Applications to attend QLEAD are open until September 30th, 2023, at 11:59pm at the following link: https://www.qleadofficial.com/delegates.
  
  

Grade 12 Post Secondary Parent Night

• Guidance will host a Grade 12 Post Secondary Parent Night on Thursday, September 28, from 6:30 - 7:30pm.  A similar presentation will be given to Grade 12 students during the week of Oct 2. 
  
  

Scholarship Update 

• Please check out the scholarships listed here. This document will also be linked on the TAB Guidance Website.   In this update of the document you will find info regarding the Loran Scholarship, U of T's National Book Award and U of T's Lester B. Pearson International Student Scholarship, and more!

•  Additional scholarships can be found at https://bit.ly/ScholarshipsHalton2023-24.

• Students may also want to sign up for a free account on www.scholarshipsCanada.com to learn about opportunities available there.
  
  

Grade 12 Questionnaire

• All Grade 12 students are asked to complete this questionnaire before September 27, 2023.  https://bit.ly/Grade12Questionnaire 

• Students must declare what their current post secondary plans are so that Guidance can ensure marks and demographic information is appropriately sent to the Ontario University Application Centre (OUAC) and/or the Ontario College Application System (OCAS)
  
  

From Halton Student Transportation Services

Notification of Delays to Families

• Every September, when students and drivers are getting accustomed to new routines, there tends to be a higher frequency of delays. We thank families for their ongoing patience and understanding during this time. We expect Bus Operators to promptly communicate any delays and provide updates so that families have the chance to make necessary adjustments to their plans. We encourage families who have not already done so, to sign up for a Parent Portal account and add their child(ren).  This will ensure they are automatically signed up to receive email notifications when delays are posted.  For detailed instructions please click here.  

• We highly encourage anyone with a mobile device to download the free BusPlanner Delays app and sign up to receive instant notifications of route delays affecting their family. For detailed instructions please click here.
  ​​​​​​​

School Parking lot and Driveway:

• As we welcome back staff and students for the 2023-2024 school year, we just want to share a friendly reminder to be on the lookout for pedestrians as you enter and exit the school parking lot.

• Please be mindful of your speed when driving through the school parking lot and the direction arrows at each end of the parking lot.

• The parking area can be a busy place at the start and end of the school day with many students who walk and bike to school.  We want everyone to have a safe entry and exit each school day.

• We appreciate everyone’s patience at these busier times of the day.
  
  

Information and Links:  

• 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.

Thank you again everyone for another wonderful week here Blakelock!
​​​​​​​

Sincerely,

Paul Dawson
Principal - T.A. Blakelock High School

September 15, 2023

Week Two Message to TAB Community

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,

Hello Tiger Community!  Thank you for another great week here at the school.  There are many opportunities for students to get involved this year and there will be a Club Fair taking place next Thursday in the big gym. It will be a chance for students to learn more about all of the wonderful extra-curricular opportunities here at the school.

You will also read some additional information about Terry Fox and some other upcoming events in the following weekly update.

School Council Upcoming Events:

• Our first T.A. Blakelock School Council meeting will be held on Tuesday September 26, starting at 7:00pm.

• We will meet in person in the school cafeteria with a link to be shared for those who would like to join virtually.

• It will be an opportunity to learn more about ways to engage with the School Council, upcoming events, as well important dates and updates from staff and students.

• We look forward to seeing you on September 26.

Athletics and Phys Ed Information:

• Fall sports are up and running and we have our first games starting next week:  

• Jr and Sr Boys Volleyball have a home game on Wednesday. Sr Girls Basketball has an away game on Wednesday.  The Golf Team has their first tournament on Monday and the Field Hockey Team has their first game on Tuesday.  Good luck to all Tigers!  If you're interested in catching a game, all schedules are posted on www.hssaa.ca website.  

Terry Fox Run

• Friday, September 22nd is the annual Terry Fox Event at Blakelock.  All students who have their Outdoor/Experiential/Community Walking forms submitted are invited to the gym for a short assembly prior to walking throughout the community.

• You can complete the above mentioned forms by using the September Start Up forms link HERE.

• Students are also encouraged to purchase a pizza or barbeque lunch with all proceeds going to the Terry Fox Foundation.  They are also encouraged to preorder lunch through School Cash Online.  Our goal is to reach $2500 this year.  Online donations can be made directly to the website ( https://schools.terryfox.ca/41430 ) and charitable tax receipts can be provided by the Terry Fox Foundation. 
  
  

Student Services Update:

Timetable Changes

• Timetable changes for Semester 1 are now complete.  Guidance is still accepting and processing course change requests for Semester 2 classes.  Students can submit requests using the following form: https://bit.ly/TABCourseChanges2023-24.
  
  

Mandatory eLearning credits

• Grade 12 students who would like to opt out of the elearning graduation requirement are asked to complete this form by November 24, 2023:  HDSB eLearning Graduation Requirement Opt Out Form.

• Students in Grades 9 - 11 can return the form to Guidance at any time this year if they plan to opt out. 
  
  

Post Secondary Exploration Conference, October 25

• All HDSB Grade 12 and 12+ students will participate in the Post Secondary Conference in October at Sheridan College.  Blakelock students will attend on Wednesday, October 25.  Families are invited to attend that evening.  For more info, see here.  Permission forms will be sent home soon!
  
  

Grade 12 Post Secondary Parent Night

• Guidance will host a Grade 12 Post Secondary Parent Night on September 28, from 6:30 - 7:30pm.  A similar presentation will be given to Grade 12 students during the week of Oct 2. 
  
  

Scholarship Update 

• Throughout the school year, HDSB Guidance Counsellors will be updating this scholarship website with various opportunities: https://bit.ly/ScholarshipsHalton2023-24

• In addition, TAB Guidance will post some scholarship information to this weekly message.  Additional info will be sent to students via email and will be posted to our school Instagram account (@blakelocktigers).
  
  

Guidance Appointment Booking

• Our Guidance Department’s Appointment Booking will be up on running next week.  Please see the links below for your Counsellor’s specific booking calendar:

• Ms. Stewart (students with last names beginning A-C): https://bit.ly/BookWithStewart

• Ms. Manners (students with last names beginning D-M): https://bit.ly/bookwithmanners

• Mrs. Svendsen (students with last names beginning N-Z): https://bit.ly/BookWithSven
  
  

I-STEM Update:

• We've had a fantastic start to our I-STEM program here at Blakelock!  Our students are already well on their way to becoming excellent problem solvers and risk takers.  

• The I-STEM students participated in a field trip to Sheridan College this past Friday!  

• It was an opportunity to learn about being creative and innovative.

School Parking lot and Driveway:

• As we welcome back staff and students for the 2023-2024 school year, we just want to share a friendly reminder to be on the lookout for pedestrians as you enter and exit the school parking lot.

• Please be mindful of your speed when driving through the school parking lot and the direction arrows at each end of the parking lot.

• The parking area can be a busy place at the start and end of the school day with many students who walk and bike to school.  We want everyone to have a safe entry and exit each school day.

• We appreciate everyone’s patience at these busier times of the day.
  
  

Information and Links:  

• 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.

Thank you again everyone for another fantastic week here Blakelock! 

Sincerely,

Paul Dawson
Principal - T.A. Blakelock High School

End of First Week Message to TAB Families

Sept.10, 2023

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,

Hello Tiger Community!  We had a fantastic first week of the school and we want to thank everyone for all of their efforts as we kick off the start of another school year.  A BIG shout out goes to the staff and students of the Tiger Crew who did a great job of welcoming our grade 9 students to T.A. Blakelock and making them feel a part of our great community.

There will be many opportunities to get involved this school year and all students are encouraged to participate to the fullest - in the classroom and beyond.

We look forward to sharing updates and information as the school year progresses and please take a look at some of the upcoming events and opportunities.

Go Tigers!

School Council Upcoming Events:

• Our first T.A. Blakelock School Council meeting will take held on Tuesday September 26, starting at 7:00pm.

• We will meet in person in the school cafeteria with a link to be shared for those who would like to join virtually.

• It will be an opportunity to learn more about ways to engage with School Council, upcoming events, as well important dates and updates from staff and students.

• We look forward to seeing you on September 26.

Music Department Update:

• The Music Department is a very active place at TAB and we have a placement for all students! 

• Please follow us on instagram @tab.music for all the latest updates. 

• We will have a Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Jazz Band and Choir! 

• If students are interested in starting an ensemble, please speak with Mrs. Abbott for timing and location opportunities. 

• We will have a meeting on Monday, September 11th at 11:00am for anyone interested in being in any ensemble!

Student Services Update:

Timetable Changes

• Timetable changes continue next week until the end of the school day on Wednesday, September 13, 2023.  

• Students can submit requests using the following form: https://bit.ly/TABCourseChanges2023-24.

• Many classes are waitlisted.  Students hoping to reach ahead may want to consider signing up for Night School through www.MyBlueprint.ca/Halton, Continuing Education.  

Community Involvement

• 40 Hours of Community Involvement is a requirement for the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).  Please see the HDSB website for the most up to date information regarding Community Involvement Hours.  As the HDSB’s website states, "the flexibility provided during 2022/2023 for Community Involvement Activities is no longer in effect as of September 1, 2023 . The Ministry has reverted back to the original guidelines for these activities. Students that completed activities prior to September 1, 2023 that were allowed under COVID-19​ accommodations will be counted.”

• Opportunities for Community Involvement will be posted to our school’s Instagram account (@blakelocktigers)  through the school year.  Students can also check the Volunteer Halton site for opportunities posted there. 

Mandatory eLearning credits

• Beginning with every student who entered Grade 9 in the 2020-21 school year, students in Ontario 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). If you would like to opt your child out of this requirement, please complete this form and return it to the school: HDSB eLearning Graduation Requirement Opt Out Form. Please return this signed form to the Blakelock Guidance Office no later than the last Friday of November in your student’s grade 12 year or at any time prior.

Post Secondary Exploration Conference in October

• All HDSB Grade 12 and 12+ students will participate in the Post Secondary Conference in October at Sheridan College.  Blakelock students will attend on Wednesday, October 25.  Families are invited to attend that evening.  For more info, see here.

School Parking lot and Driveway:

• As we welcome back staff and students for the 2023-2024 school year, we just want to share a friendly reminder to be on the lookout for pedestrians as you enter and exit the school parking lot.

• Please be mindful of your speed when driving through the school parking lot and the direction arrows at each end of the parking lot.

• The parking area can be a busy place at the start and end of the school day with many students who walk and bike to school.  We want everyone to have a safe entry and exit each school day.

• We appreciate everyone’s patience at these busier times of the day.

Athletics and Phys Ed Information:

• Terry Fox Run is Sept 22 - please be sure to have the appropriate Outdoor/Experiential/Community Walking form completed to participate prior to Sept 22.

• Athletics will be starting up - listen to morning announcements for information on tryout dates and times and get involved on a sports team.

• Intramurals will be starting up soon - please make sure you sign and return the Intramural form to your period 1 teacher.

Municipal Enforcement Services Information:

• The following Municipal Enforcement Services information has been shared by the town of Oakville.  

• Please take a moment to review the information.

Information and Links:  

• 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.

Thank you again everyone for a great first week! 

​​​​​​​Sincerely,

Paul Dawson
Principal - T.A. Blakelock High School