Dear LPCI Community,

Semester two is well underway with clubs, councils, arts and athletics in full swing! It is never too late to get involved! See the many options HERE.

This is the time of year when students are looking at course selection for the next school year. Our guidance team is supporting this process in a variety of ways. Course selection assemblies will take place next week on February 9, 10, and 11. Students will be requesting courses through MyBlueprint. MyBlueprint will open for Course Selection following each grade assembly, and will close for all students on February 20.  We are also welcoming Parents/caregivers to a Course Selection Webinar on February 11 from 7pm to 8pm. Please click here to register for the webinar. If you cannot attend this webinar we will be sure to share the slides in next week's newsletter.

Following the course selection assemblies and other information sessions, the guidance team welcomes students to request an appointment with their guidance counsellor if they have additional questions. Please see the guidance section below for information regarding booking of appointments.

We would also like to remind you that the enhancing student privacy update to student emails takes place this weekend, from 4:00PM today, February 6 to Sunday, February 8. During this time, students will not have access to their accounts, including Google Workspace (Gmail, Drive, Classroom, etc) Brightspace, Office 365 and other digital tools (the Virtual Library will be available). Access to these tools will be restored in the following order: Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Brightspace, and then all remaining applications and tools beginning Sunday, February 8.

TDSB will update secondary student accounts (email addresses) by removing personal names and simplifying the format. The new account format for secondary students’ email addresses will change:

From: firstname.lastname@student.tdsb.on.ca
To: student#@tdsb.ca
For example: John.Smith@student.tdsb.on.ca to 123456789@tdsb.ca

The Student# refers to the nine-digit TDSB student ID used by students to access the TDSB Connects app and login to Windows workstations (not the OEN). Please see this information poster and Frequently Asked Questions document for more information.

Finally, February is Black History Month and Chinese Heritage Month. Staff and students are busy planning events, celebrations and initiatives. We look forward to sharing more as the month progresses!

Wishing everyone a safe and relaxing weekend. As always, please reach out to us directly if you have questions or concerns. 

Lorraine Sutherns - lorraine.sutherns@tdsb.on.ca
Principal, Lawrence Park C.I.

New: Student Council -- LP Wear Distribution!
Good news! LP Wear has arrived earlier than anticipated and we are ready to start distribution on Monday. Stay tuned to our Instagram @lpcipanthers for updates on pickup times and place.  Please have a screenshot of the receipt on hand to speed up the process.  Please feel free to send a DM to Instagram or contact Mme Benais at marie-helene.benais@tdsb.on.ca for any inquiries.

New: OSSLT Live Webinar February 10 12:00PM or March 25th 12:00 PM
Join us for a free live webinar about how EQAO assesses students’ writing skills at key stages of their education. EQAO staff will discuss writing prompts and questions from the reading component of the primary- and junior-division assessments and from the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test. Participants will hear how these prompts and questions help assess the skills students are learning in class. Staff will also highlight valuable insights and resources that can help parents and guardians support their child’s learning.

https://eqao.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_F3XF343SQve5ZGR6fEfLoA#/registration

New: Literacy Outside the Day Program - 2026 OSSLT Prep Course 
The Continuing Education Department is pleased to announce a centralized OSSLT Prep Course. This virtual initiative is designed to empower students with the essential literacy skills and strategic test-taking techniques required to excel on the provincial assessment.  The course runs from February to April, with a virtual commitment of two to three hours per week. Students can register here. Participation is not guaranteed and is strictly based on student enrollment numbers. For more information, contact ConEd_eReg@tdsb.on.ca.

New: Student Council -- Cupid's Café -- February 12
On Thursday, February 12th, the Student Council will host Cupid’s Café, a Valentine’s Day–themed coffee house and talent show in collaboration with the Music Council. The event will feature talented student musicians and performers, along with delicious baked goods prepared by the Homeform classes. Cupid’s Café will take place in the north end of the cafeteria. Spirit Cards will be required for all purchases. We look forward to another exciting afternoon where students can enjoy performances, cheer on their friends, and celebrate Valentine’s Day together. For more information, please contact Mme Benais at marie-helene.benais@tdsb.on.ca

Student Council - Homeform Rep Re-elections
As we enter into the second semester, the teachers will begin the election or selection process of the homeform representatives (HF reps). HF reps from the previous semester will not be a homeform and will have to re-run to keep their position. This is another chance for those who missed the opportunity last semester to become a HF rep. Being a homeform representative is an exciting opportunity as it is the way to become a part of the student council in the spring and get involved with student council events. The two representatives in each period A class will represent their peers in monthly lunchtime meetings led by the Student Council Liaison Officers. These meetings will cover upcoming events, important messages, and ways that the homeform representatives can get involved in our student council. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact Mme Benais at

Faculty of Languages - FREE French Cultural Enrichment show -- Sign up to participate!
Every year the Languages department gives Extended French, French Immersion and Senior Core French students the opportunity to participate in French cultural shows in our auditorium.  Although these events are not mandatory, we highly recommend them for language learners and it is a wonderful way to get cultural enrichment without having to leave Lawrence Park and miss a whole day of school (as is often the case for off-campus field trips). On March 5th, there will be a screening of the TIFF award-winning film Ru. This is the story of a wealthy refugee family who leaves Vietnam and begins a new life in Montreal after a dangerous sea crossing. Shy Tinh must learn a new language and integrate into her new environment (shown with French audio & subtitles). There will be a Q & A with the team from REEL Canada after the film.  Admission is FREE however only ticket holders will be allowed to participate.  In order to obtain a ticket, please sign-up via Cash Online.  Tickets will be distributed by the French teachers starting in late February.  Should your child not have a French class this semester, they may obtain their ticket at lunch in room 301 by showing a screenshot of their Cash Online receipt.  Please contact Mme Benais with any questions or comments you may have:  marie-helene.benais@tdsb.on.ca

Faculty of Languages  --  Announcing the DELF exams in May 2026
Every year, the TDSB in collaboration with the Ministry of Education in France, offers grade 12 French students (Core, Extended, Immersion), the opportunity to participate in the Diplôme d’études en langue française (DELF).  This allows students to obtain a Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) certificate attesting to their level of competence in French (A2, B1, B2).  The French Ministry of National Education awards this diploma, which is recognized around the world, to successful candidates. This year's DELF exams will take place May 11th to 14th.  More information will be shared with the grade 12s in class (Note:  those who had their French class in Semester 1 should stay tuned to their teacher's Google Classroom for updates), and the students will be guided towards the recommended exam but below are some general guidelines.  For more information please see the link below or contact Mme Benais at marie-helene.benais@tdsb.on.ca                                                                                                    

African Heritage (Black History) Month - February 2026
The TDSB recognizes African Heritage (Black History) Month each February. African Heritage (Black History) Month is recognized across Canada thanks to former Member of Parliament The Honourable Jean Augustine, who introduced the motion in the House of Commons, and it officially took effect in February 1996.  

This year’s theme for African Heritage (Black History) Month is The Power of Us. This theme focuses on Black Student Well-being, building a sense of belonging, and celebrating Black Brilliance, inviting all to participate in building community and supporting Black Mental Wellness.   Please read the full message for resources and details about upcoming educational opportunities for students, staff, and community members. 

Chinese Heritage Month - February 2026
The TDSB proudly recognizes Chinese Heritage Month in February each year. This year, we celebrate the Year of the Horse: Play, Progress, Prosper.  

The Lunar New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is one of the most significant holidays in Chinese heritage. The date is determined by the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar, and the celebration lasts 16 days. This year, the first day begins on February 17. Festivities can include family gatherings, decorations, and of course, a feast! 

All TDSB students were invited to participate in the popular Chinese Heritage Month Poster and Artwork Challenge. Our 2026 entries were exceptional!  We applaud all submissions. The winning posters and full message can be found on the Chinese Heritage Month webpage.

Student Council -- Cupid's Café February 12th!
On Thursday, February 12th, the Student Council will host Cupid’s Café, a Valentine’s Day–themed coffee house and talent showcase. The event will feature talented student musicians and performers, along with delicious baked goods prepared by homeform classes. Cupid’s Café will take place in the north end of the cafeteria.  Spirit Cards will be required for all purchases. We look forward to another exciting afternoon where students can enjoy student performances, cheer on their friends, and celebrate Valentine’s Day together. More information to come after exam week, stay tuned for more.

New: Semester One Final Report Cards

The Semester One Final Report Cards were sent out through Messenger on Wednesday February 4th. Please see the following guide to help families/caregivers understand the Final Report Card. Parent/Caregiver Guide: Understanding Secondary Provincial Report Card 

New: Hold the Date: BSA Dinner on February 26

The 4th annual LPCI Black Student Alliance (BSA) dinner will be held on Thursday, February 26, 2026 at LPCI at 6:00pm. Kindly complete the Google Form to RSVP before Friday, Feb. 13: https://forms.gle/b9qVmS94q3cUdvCH9

New: Honouring African Heritage - Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement Experiences
In collaboration with various community educators, the Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement is excited to offer diverse learning experiences focused on honouring and affirming African, African-Caribbean and Black students' identities. This African-centred programming provides a range of opportunities for students, staff, caregivers and community members this February. Click the links to learn more: Staff, Caregiver, Community Experiences Menu (Adults) 

GoGuardian Parent App Now Available
Families of students enrolled in the Student Device Program from grades 6-12 can now access the GoGuardian Parent App, allowing parents, guardians and caregivers to manage their children’s internet use outside of school hours including blocking specific websites and restricting internet access completely. Information about the app and a support guide have been made available to families through the December edition of the TDSB Connects communication for families. 

What you should know:

• GoGuardian Parent works only outside of school hours. Parents/guardians can make changes between 4:01 PM and 7:59 AM. During school hours, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, GoGuardian is managed by the teacher.

• The application is available for iOS devices (iPhone/iPad) and Android devices (phone/tablet) only.

• The TDSB School Community IT Support service is available to assist families with questions they may have about GoGuardian Parents. 

• Each student can have a maximum of two parents or guardians connected to the application.

Special Education and Inclusion Parent Engagement Sessions - February 2026
Special Education and Inclusion is pleased to offer a number of sessions for parents/guardians/caregivers in February . Please find information HERE. All parent engagement sessions for the 2025-26 school year can be found on the Special Education and Inclusion webpage. Parent newsletters can be found here.

TDSB Guide to Special Education and Inclusion Resource
Please take a moment to review the TDSB Guide to Special Education and Inclusion Resource for Parents.  If you have specific questions or concerns, please reach out to our head of Special Education, Janet Hanway Fleming at janet.hanwayfleming@tdsb.on.ca

Please Pay SAC Fees
There are still many students who have not paid their Student Activity Fees. Please ensure you pay the SAC fee of $60.00 using School Cash Online. This fee covers a Student Card, Yearbook, and many student activities throughout the school year. If you haven't yet registered, please visit https://tdsb.schoolcashonline.com to get started.

School Calendar and Vacation Planning 2025-26

The 2025-26 School Calendar is now available on the TDSB website. Please click here for PA day and  holiday dates. Calendar items specific to Lawrence Park can be viewed on the main page of our school website linked here.  A reminder that vacations are not considered a legitimate absence from instructional days or Exam days. Every effort should be made to avoid scheduling family vacations during school time. In the event of a missed evaluation due to a family vacation, teachers are not required to provide an alternative form of evaluation or Exam and a mark of zero may be assigned.

Steps to Address Questions and Concerns
Below is the best way to talk to us, and who you should reach out to and when. You can review steps to take when addressing a question or concern here: https://www.tdsb.on.ca/Contact-Us/Steps-to-Address-Questions-Concerns 

New! Guidance Appointments
Students can now book an appointment with their guidance counselor using a direct link. Please see below:
Ms. Teh- students A-G: https://calendar.app.google/LJuNdmQ1mLnW59bS6

Ms. Sacks- students H-N:  https://calendar.app.google/xkBduvTR7VjuXEjD6

Mrs. Meyer- students O-Z :  https://calendar.app.google/DFTKfjzRp3Zbmu1m6

Semester 2 Course Changes
The final day to change a course for semester 2 is February 9. 

New!: Student Support
Need help?

Drop in Peer Tutoring begins on February 18th! 

Mondays and Wednesdays at lunch in Room 106!

Need a 1-1 peer tutor now? Fill in this form: Request a 1-1 Peer Tutor

Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement - February 12 Scholarship Application Workshop
The Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement, in collaboration with the Black Foundation of Community Networks (BFCN), invites Black students in grades 7 to 12 and their families to a virtual scholarship application workshop. Attendees will learn how to search, prepare, and apply for scholarships and bursaries.  

• February 12 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. 

• Register here before February 11 at 12 p.m.

Please share this information and the scholarship workshop flyer with eligible TDSB students and families. For questions, contact cebsa@tdsb.on.ca. 

Guidance Google Classroom

All students have been invited to their grade’s Guidance Google Classroom. We will post information in your grade’s Google Classroom about volunteer opportunities, post-secondary pathways, scholarship opportunities, and more. Be sure to check it regularly. 

Further Information
Please refer to the LPCI guidance website for more information about general guidance information (ie. scholarship opportunities) and various opportunities for students (ie. volunteer, academic). 

New! 🎉 Library Update! 🎉
We hope you are ready for an exciting new semester at LP! As we jump into Semester 2, we want to remind you that the Library Learning Commons is here to support you every step of the way.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to study, a cozy corner to read, a place to collaborate, or help finding the right resources, the Library is your go-to space.

This semester, be sure to check out:
📚 New additions to our book collection
💻 Virtual Library and research tools
🛋️ Comfortable spaces designed for learning and creativity
🤝 Support from Teacher-Librarians who are always happy to help

We’re excited to welcome you back into the space and look forward to supporting your learning, curiosity, and success throughout the term.

Here’s to an amazing Semester 2, LP — let’s make it a strong chapter!

Please check out the following links to learn more about our Library programming:

Virtual Library

LPCI Library Learning Commons

LLC Google Classroom (join with the code 2mvgxib)

Teacher-Librarian Contact Information:

Julia Zwaan (ACL Library & Special Projects)

julia.zwaan@tdsb.on.ca 

416.393.9500 extension 20010

Fern Smith

ken.smith@tdsb.on.ca 

416.393.9500 extension 20010

📚 Happy Reading, Panthers! 

New: Basketball Intramurals
Are you ready for the madness?? LPAC will be hosting a 3on3 basketball tournament starting in February with a round robin to determine seeding for the March Madness tournament. There will be two divisions- a competitive bracket and a FUN bracket. While the teams will play 3v3 you can have up to a max of 8 on your roster. All games will be played at lunch and the schedule will be posted on instagram and in the intramurals Google Classroom. Code: seve5274

Follow the athletics instagram for more information. Sign ups will start next week. See Ms. Daigle if you haven’t any questions. 

If you have any questions about sports teams at LP please contact karen.daigle@tdsb.on.ca or doug.hunnisett@tdsb.on.ca  We would be happy to answer any questions you have. 

Athletic Council Social Media
Follow the Athletic Council on Instagram: @lpciathletics for up to date information about athletics at LP!

School isn't only about the classes! LPCI has many clubs and councils. Click on the link to get more information! https://sites.google.com/student.tdsb.on.ca/lpclubscouncils/home 

School Council Meeting
The next council meeting will be on Monday, February, 23 at 6:30 pm.

2025-2026 School Council Executive Team
Please see HERE for the newly announced LPCI School Council

School Council Social Media
Follow the Parent Council: Instagram: @lpciparentcouncil

Online: The LPAA website https://www.lpcialumni.com/ 

On Facebook
The LPAA is at https://www.facebook.com/groups/LPCI75th/. Lawrence Park Collegiate 1983 is at https://www.facebook.com/groups/68735842927. Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute Over 30! is moderated by Ara Yeremian and can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/lpciover30

Instagram
LPAA’s Instagram account is @LPCIAlumni.

Contacts
Something to say to the LPAA – want to get involved - want to publicize an alumni relevant event – want to be a class rep? Info@lpcialumni.com.