Hello Arbour Vista Families,
As we begin the school year, we encourage families to explore the many helpful resources available on the Arbour Vista website. The Arbour Vista Family Handbook and Code of Conduct have been linked for your reference and can also be accessed online under the Resources section of the Arbour Vista website. These documents provide important information about school procedures, expectations, and supports to help ensure a successful school year for all students and families.
UGDSB September Communications Newsletter
The September Communications Newsletter is now available! This month's edition includes important information for families, including:
How to register for school and explore Find Your Path
Transportation information for students and families
Guidance on who to contact when you need assistance
We encourage all families to take a few minutes to review the newsletter and stay informed about important updates and resources from the UGDSB.
📖 Read the newsletter here:
https://www.ugdsb.ca/page/communications-newsletter
Ministry Reorganization
Late Friday, we received confirmation that we need to reorganize some classes to align with Ministry class size guidelines. As a result, adjustments to our current class configurations will be necessary.
Staff will be meeting on Monday to review our updated organization and determine the next steps. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work through this process, as well as your support in helping students and staff navigate these changes.
We will make every effort to complete the reorganization as quickly as possible so that students can settle into their learning environment and have a positive start to the school year. Additional information will be shared with families as soon as it becomes available.
Thank you for your continued support and understanding during this transition.
SK- Gr 2 Parents
Reading is an important skill that lays the foundation for your child's success, both in school and in life. During the 2026-2027 school year, the Upper Grand District School Board will continue Early Reading screening for students in Senior Kindergarten, Grade 1, and Grade 2. This annual reading screener helps to identify early reading skills, and is also a requirement of the Ministry of Education through Policy Program Memorandum #168. Please see the attached letter for reference, that was sent home with SK-Gr 2 students on September 9th.
EAV-Initial Parent Letter Regarding the Early Reading Screener Administration Fall 2026.pdf
Student Accident Insurance
Parents and guardians are responsible for expenses related to student injuries on school premises or during school activities. Accidents can and do happen and the costs involved might not be fully covered by provincial health care or employer group insurance plans.
The Upper Grand District School Board (UGDSB) is empowered under The Education Act to offer Accident and Life Insurance for students.
Please see the UGDSB Director’s letter to families posted on our website containing information with respect to two programs available for the purchase of Student Accident Insurance. The Insuremykids Program is offered through Old Republic Insurance Company of Canada and the Studyinsured Program is underwritten by Certain Lloyds’s Underwriters through AON Insurance.
Each program offers a variety of options, including family rates at affordable prices. The cost must be paid by the parent or guardian. Families who require paper copies of the application can contact the provider directly. Purchase is done directly online or by contacting the Provider:
www.insuremykids.com or call toll free 1-800-463-5437
www.studyinsuredstudentaccident.com or call toll free 1-833-560-0527.
For today’s active children, especially those who participate in field trips, co-curricular and other school activities outside the school day, Student Accident Insurance is recommended.
Terry Fox Run
This year Arbour Vista will be participating in the Terry Fox Run on Friday September 18, 2026 during period 4 @ 11:40-12:20. We are excited for this year’s event. Donations are being accepted using SchoolCash Online and if you are interested and available to volunteer on the day of the event please contact Mme Beesley (mbeesley@ugcloud.ca).
Prayer Room
For any students requiring a daily prayer space, there is space available in the main office. Should your child require the use of this space, please have them come to the office and let administration know.
Verification Forms
It is important that we have up-date-contact information for your child. Please complete, sign and return your verification forms to your child’s teacher as soon as possible.
Sustainability Initiatives
We would like to take this opportunity to remind you about our ongoing commitment to sustainability. As part of our school's efforts to promote environmental consciousness, we kindly request that you consider packing your child's lunch using reusable containers. By minimizing the use of single-use plastics and other disposable items, we can collectively contribute to reducing waste and protecting our planet.
Reminder: E-Scooters and E-Bikes
In response to a recent increase in activity related to e-scooters and e-bikes in school communities, we are offering the following newsletter insert to be shared with your families.
With the return to school this fall we encourage students to use safe routes to school when walking or 'wheeling' to and from school. We are sharing the following information regarding e-scooters and e-bikes for awareness.
Please note, e-scooters and e-bikes are not permitted on school property for students under the age of 16. This is in line with Ontario legislation which prohibits the use of e-scooter and e-bikes for youth under 16 years old.
E-scooters and e-bikes are not permitted to be stored inside school buildings.
Students are welcome to ride standard bikes or scooters to and from school, always wearing a helmet and following road safety rules.
Calendar
Please note that the Arbour Vista Calendar hosts our school events. Please refer to it regularly as there are times when a change in date or time is required. For specific details about event please click on “view all” on the calendar
Video Surveillance
Arbour Vista Public School is monitored by 24 hour video surveillance. Security cameras are in operation for the safety of the students, staff and the school community and for the protection of the Upper Grand District School Board property. For additional information please contact the Principal (519-766-4555) of the school or contact the F.O.I. Co-ordinator at the Upper Grand District School Board office at 519-822-4420.
Pizza Orders
Round 1 of Pizza orders (until winter break) will be available on SchoolCash Online starting October 1st and will close at 11:59pm on October 8th.
Pizza Days will take place on Wednesdays and Fridays during the second break, from 12:20 to 1:00 p.m. Students can choose between cheese or pepperoni slices.
Please note that late orders will not be accepted.
Extra slices may be available for Grade 7 and 8 students at a cost of $2.50 each, but availability is limited and not guaranteed. Grade 7 and 8 students should not depend on this extra pizza for lunch. Note, we cannot provide refunds or hold pizza if your child is absent.
If the cost presents a barrier for your family, please contact the office before the registration deadline to make arrangements. Support is available, and all requests will be handled discreetly and confidentially.
Funds raised will be used to enhance student experiences, including support for arts programming and community-building initiatives such as dancED, as well as student recognition and appreciation activities.
Volunteering for Class Trips- Updated Info 2026/2027
Interested in volunteering for school events, class trips, and more? It’s a wonderful way to give back, with opportunities that fit a variety of time commitments. Vulnerable Sector checks will now require a letter from the school outlining the volunteer duties. Please email the school and a letter will be provided electronically for easy upload.
Please note that volunteers will not be permitted to participate in class trips or related activities without a valid Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC). Since obtaining a VSC can take some time, please plan ahead accordingly.