Important dates to remember in October

• October is Mi'kmaq History Month
• October is Canadian Library Month
• Wed., Oct. 1: Treaty Day
• Mon., Oct. 13: Thanksgiving - No classes PP-12
• Fri., Oct. 24: NSTU Conference Day - No classes PP-12
• Mon., Oct. 20: Diwali begins
• October 20-24: School Bus Safety Week
   

All graphics below, as well as additional options for Thanksgiving, Diwali and Halloween, can be downloaded here.

Celebrating and recognizing Treaty Day is an important way we can strengthen understanding and respect for Indigenous cultures and histories. It highlights the significance of treaties as living agreements that shape relationships between Indigenous peoples and the government. By educating students about Treaty Day, we promote awareness of Indigenous rights and contributions and encourage reconciliation. This celebration helps build a more inclusive and respectful society, where students learn the importance of honouring commitments and working together for a better future. 

October is Mi'kmaq History Month, a time to celebrate and recognize the rich culture, history, and contributions of the Mi'kmaq people. In our schools, we can honour this month by incorporating Mi'kmaq stories, traditions and teachings into our curriculum. Activities such as guest speakers, art projects and cultural events can help students appreciate and understand the significance of Mi'kmaq heritage. Please join us in offering our respect, awareness and appreciation for the Mi'kmaq community and their enduring legacy. Learn more here.

Student safety is a shared responsibility! During School Bus Safety Week, everyone can work together to ensure the safety of students on and around the school bus.

Did you know that HRCE has more than 33,000 students who ride the school bus every day? 

School Bus Safety Week is a great time to remind students, families and schools, of a few daily safety tips that everyone can follow to ensure all students get to school safely. 

Bus Stop Safety 

• Be on time for the bus and please don’t run to/from the bus.
• Stand back off the road and don't push or shove when waiting at a stop.
• Always cross in front of the bus. Walk three metres (10 feet) in front of the bus to a point where you can see the driver and wait for the driver's signal to cross. Proceed to the centre of the road, STOP, LOOK & LISTEN and cross the road when it is safe.
• Never crawl under a school bus or cross the road behind the bus.
• Know the danger zones around the bus. 
   

School Bus Safety 

• Please respect and listen to the driver and avoid distracting them.
• Please keep noise levels to a minimum.
• Do not stand or move seats while the bus is in motion.
• Never put your hands, arms, feet or head out of the bus window.
• Ask the driver for permission before you open the bus windows.
• Do not throw anything inside the bus or out of the windows.
• Keep the aisle clear at all times when the bus is in motion. 
   

Remember: In Nova Scotia, it's illegal to pass a school bus when its red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended.

You can find out more information about riding the school bus in HRCE here. 

In September, the Nova Scotia Department of Education and Early Childhood Development shared a new provincial policy about the playing of our national anthem in schools. You can read it here.

In keeping with this policy, we play O Canada at the beginning of each school day in our school. 

If you have any questions, please reach out to the school office.