Hello Arbour Vista families,
Kindly note that Monday is Thanksgiving, and there will be no school. I hope you enjoy the holiday, spending time with the people you love and doing the things that bring you joy.
As we settle into the fall season, the changing temperatures can make it tricky to dress appropriately each day. Layering is a great way to help your child stay comfortable throughout the day. We kindly ask that you label your child’s clothing, as items like sweaters and sweatshirts are often removed and can easily be misplaced.
The UGDSB October Communications Newsletter
The UGDSB monthly public-facing newsletter is out.
In this month's issue:
Cyber Awareness Month 2026
Student and Family Support Office
School Zone Safety
You can view the newsletter here: https://www.ugdsb.ca/page/communications-newsletter
PA Day October 26, 2026
Please find attached the link to the outline for the Professional Activity Day on October 26, 2026. There will be no school for students on this day. This information is also posted in our front foyer for reference.
City of Guelph-Inclement Weather & Crossing Guards
The City of Guelph administers the adult school crossing guard program. We will endeavour to provide a safe, reliable service to all elementary children attending schools in the areas where established sites are currently listed. However, in extreme weather conditions, the likelihood of a decreased level of service to a point where the city no longer feels it can be provided at adequate levels of safety or reliability is very high.
We value our city guard staff and have a policy in place that guards do not work under the following conditions:
When school buses are cancelled for our city
Temperatures colder than -30° Celsius or wind chill below -35°
Snow amounts in excess of 25° centimetres in one snow event
Significant freezing rain
Thunderstorms
Cyber Safety Presentations for Grades 6 & 8
In recognition of Cyber Security Awareness Month, students in Grades 6 and 8 will participate in a Cyber Safety presentation delivered by our Child and Youth Counsellor before the end of the month. The presentation content has been reviewed and approved to align with current curriculum expectations, as well as mental health and student well-being goals.
Through age-appropriate discussions, students will learn about online safety, responsible digital citizenship, and strategies for recognizing and avoiding potential harms in digital spaces. Topics may include mental health, online relationships, addiction, self-harm, and abuse awareness. While some subject matter may be sensitive, the presentation focuses on providing students with practical tools, supports, and positive strategies to help them stay safe and seek help when needed.
Students will also learn about the role of Crime Stoppers as a community organization that provides a safe and anonymous way for individuals to report concerns, helping to make our communities safer places to live.
We encourage families to ask their children about the presentation and discuss the key messages and learning that resonated with them. These conversations can help reinforce important online safety practices at home.
School Council
We had a great turn out to our first school council meeting. Thank you to those who came out and volunteered to fill some of the available positions. We appreciate Ivana and Nicole for volunteering their time to chair and co-chair the School Council.
Help us Reach our Goal!
The Countdown is on! The dance-a-thon is next week! Let’s work together to reach our goal of raising $5000 to reduce the cost of the dancED program for families. Get your glow on - neon coloured and white clothing can glow in the dark at the dance-a-thon.
CCAT Dates
Please be advised that the CCAT administration dates are as follows:
Week of Oct 27-29: CCAT practice tests
Week of Nov 2-6: CCAT Testing Dates
Lost & Found
If your child has lost something, please encourage them to visit the Lost and Found located outside of the main office. We’ve asked teachers to take their students to look through the Lost and Found this week.
As a reminder, any unclaimed items will be donated at the end of the month.
Halloween Celebration - Friday, October 30
Students are welcome to celebrate Halloween on Friday, October 30 by wearing a costume or dressing in black and orange.
Students wearing costumes should arrive at school already dressed and may wish to bring a change of clothes. Teachers will communicate any classroom-specific activities. Families who do not wish their child to participate are asked to notify their teacher. Alternative activities will be available.
Costume Expectations
To help ensure a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment:
Costumes should be school-appropriate and respectful of all cultures, identities, and communities.
Masks and costume accessories (e.g., toy weapons, props) are not permitted.
Costumes should not be overly frightening or graphic.
Students should not share candy, treats, or drinks.
Please label all costume items with your child's name.
We look forward to a fun and inclusive day for all students!
Have a great week!