The Eye on LPCI
Weekly newsletter from Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute
Issue 34 Friday, May 9, 2025
The Eye on LPCI
Weekly newsletter from Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute
Issue 34 Friday, May 9, 2025
Next two weeks at a glance!
Administration Note
Dear LPCI Community:
I hope you and your family are well.
As we note around this time every year: A few more weeks and the customary end-of-the-year programming is upon us. And then summer. Now is a great opportunity to discuss what students are doing for the summer. Many students have plans or ideas, but consider the following:
Summer is a great time to volunteer in the community and there are many opportunities specifically available for students to volunteer;
Summer is also an excellent time to gain work experience, whether through a part time job or even some formal or informal internship to learn about and gain experience in a field of interest;
Summer may be a good time to take a summer course - perhaps one of interest, or to catch up or upgrade;
And, of course, summer is a good time to recalibrate, to rest and review plans in how you approach the following school year.
Regardless which you might choose, LPCI Guidance can assist, so reach out to them - their contact information is below or just pop into the Guidance Office.
Finally, on another note, Amanda Walton has stepped down as chair of the LPCI Alumni Association (huge thank you for your leadership!) and coming on to helm are Marilyn Horrick and Debbie Dykes (thank you and looking forward!). More information below.
If you have any other questions or require assistance, please contact the school or just reply to this email.
Have a great weekend,
Michael Griesz, Principal
Table of Contents
Students
New!: You Are Invited to PACE On May 15, 2025 at STACKT!
New!: Faculty of Languages - Results of the Provincials of the French Public Speaking contest!
New!: Student Volunteer Opportunity!
New!: ➡️ ATTN: All-Around Athletes, All-Around Creatives; All-Around Leaders ⬅️
New!: Faculty of Languages - Fun with grammar!
New!: Peace Photo Contest
New!: Panfest Vybz 2025
Mock Trial Competition
Grad Photos
Coop Success Stories - Spotlight on Student Achievement
York U Opportunities!
June Exam Schedule
Moratorium Period - June 12-17, 2025
EQAO Math Assessment - Grade 9 for Semester 2
New!: Student Community Volunteer Opportunity!
May Lyrics & PACE
John Fisher PS Fun Fair! Volunteering
Self-Service Password Reset
Lawrence Park CI Website
Parents/Guardians/Caregivers
New!: I See You, Mama: Black Mothers Reimagining Schools for Their Children
New!: Social Media
Commencement 2025 - Save the Date!
Upcoming Parent/Guardian/Caregiver Engagement Session: Strategies and resources to support students with ADHD
Special Education and Inclusion Newsletter Parents/Guardians - Month of May
Absence from Exams and Final Evaluations
Amazing Cash and Prizes to be Won!
New!: Parent/Caregivers IMPACT Symposiums
Community Consultations
TDSB Guide to Special Education and Inclusion Resource
Steps to Address Questions and Concerns
Reporting An Absence
School Calendar and Vacation Planning 2024-25
School Council
New!: LPCI School Council Meeting, May 12
School Council Website Address
School Council Social Media
Athletics
Baseball Gloves
EMA
Athletics
Athletic Council Social Media
Alumni
New!: Announcement about LPCI Alumni Association
Online
On Facebook
Contacts
Library
New!: White Pine Book Club
New!: Newsletter
Library Learning Commons
Library Social Media
Library Further Information
Library Teacher-Librarian Contact information
Upcoming Speakers
Future Speakers
Guidance
Guidance Google Classroom
Guidance Appointments
TDSB Summer School- Continuing Education
On-Line to Success-Ontario (OLTS)
Ontario Universities Information Sessions
Save the Date! Ontario Universities Fair (OUF)
New!: Scholarships and Opportunities
New!: Volunteer Opportunities
Students
New!: You Are Invited to PACE On May 15, 2025 at STACKT!
Lawrence Park will be hosting a big art extravaganza in partnership with Central Toronto Academy and other TDSB schools. We will be showcasing and celebrating the creative and Entrepreneurial success of our students over the 2024-25 school year. You will see ARTISTS, PERFORMERS, DESIGNERS, INNOVATORS, MUSICIANS, DANCERS, MAKERS, POETS, and VOLUNTEERS. At the event we will be selling products our students designed and produced in a community marketplace. The event is FREE, and you can register HERE if you would like to attend.
Event Details:
Date: May 15th
Location: Stackt Market, 28 Bathurst St, Toronto
Event Spaces: Horseshoe Gallery, Concert Space + sectioned off activation spaces
Time: 5pm - 10pm
Event Website: www.pacetoronto.shop
A strict wristband policy will be in effect and tickets are limited - don’t miss out.
How is Lawrence park involved?
1. We made Scarves! Our wonderfully talented students have created some beautiful scarves. These will be available for sale at PACE on May 15th. The artists behind these beautiful designs are Joelle Tse (GR12) Tiger, and (GR11) creative team April Ballestrin, Lily Bosnar Willilams, and Charlotte Rowand ArchScarf.
These scarves will be available in 3 sizes, 16" by 16", 26" by 26" and 36" by 36".
You can purchase a scarf at the event and a link to purchase will come after May 15th.
2. Community Marketplace for students to show off student talents. There will be an Equity Tent showcasing food and art that represents the cultural identity of our students, and Mia Stoula will be showcasing her crocheted art work, Flowers by Mia.
3. Performances by our dancers, Film, Music and Drama departments.
4. Fashion show Our Fashion designers will be modelling, and showcasing the Designs they have been working on all year.
5. Art Gallery - Our Visual art students will be showcasing their art work in the Horseshoe Gallery at Stackt.
LPCI and TDSB staff will be present at the event to provide supervision. TDSB and LPCI Code of Conduct apply to this event. As this event is happening in a public space your or your child’s photo may be taken, please be cognizant of any cameras if you do not want to be photographed. Note this event is an exclusive TDSB event - only students, families and invited dignitaries are able to attend. This is a joint school community event involving: Lawrence Park CI, Central Toronto Academy, Central Technical Institute, Bloor CI, Don Mills CI, Humberside CI, Kapapamahchakwew - Wandering Spirit School, Etobicoke School of the Arts, Fern PS.
If you have any questions or want to express interest in purchasing a scarf, please email Ms McDonnell at ursula.mcdonnell@tdsb.on.ca. Look forward to seeing you on MAY 15th at STACKT.
New!: Faculty of Languages - Results of the Provincials of the French Public Speaking contest!
On May 3, Lawrence Park students delivered an outstanding performance at the 40th anniversary edition of Concours d’art oratoire, Ontario’s French public speaking competition, held at Glendon. The competition was hosted by Canadian Parents for French and the Ontario Modern Languages Teachers Association, and brought together 157 finalists from across the province to showcase their passion and creativity in French. Students competed for a range of awards, including cash prizes, scholarships and bursaries to top Canadian universities and colleges. All of our participants demonstrated a deep commitment to French language learning and their achievements place them among Ontario’s most accomplished French-speaking students. Please join us in congratulating all of our candidates and particularly, the three who will be moving on to represent Ontario at the National level in June.
Junior Extended French : Sabine Scurfield ; 2nd place
Junior French Immersion : Lara Celikhan ; 1st place
Senior Francophone : Scarlett Huboux ; 1st place
New!: Student Volunteer Opportunity!
The John Ross Robertson Fun Fair is just a few weeks away and we would love your help! We welcome all student volunteers that are looking for community hours - shifts available on Friday May 23rd and Saturday May 24th. Please sign up here: ttps://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090D4EA4AB2BA2FB6-56727457-jrr2025
New!: ➡️ ATTN: All-Around Athletes, All-Around Creatives; All-Around Leaders ⬅️
VOLUNTEER WITH GLEN PARK P.S. FUN FAIR! WEDNESDAY JUNE 11 2025 3PM-8:30PM
We need help sorting prizes, painting signs, and staffing the fun games, crafts, or food booths at Fun Fair 2025. You get:
fantastic training ✅
Refreshments and breaks 🍕
High fives from GP Parent Council 🙏
and, of course, as many Volunteer Hours as you can manage 📋
Sign-up ASAP at:
https://forms.gle/ASZZj2ufnWwNdfvR6
New!: Faculty of Languages - Fun with grammar!
Mme Benais' grade 12 students have wrapped up their unit on the subjunctive. It is a mood/tense which poses problems for Anglophones because it is rarely used in English but it is still relevant in other languages. The subjunctive is triggered by specific subordinate clauses so they were grouped and taught in sections in order to facilitate the learning. The culminating task was to write and perform a song using an imposed number of examples from each list. Last semester an example of how students had fun with grammar was posted. This semester, when the task was announced, there was a cheer. Clearly, the semester 2 students were looking forward to creating their own videos. The work that the students produced was excellent and very entertaining. It was impossible to choose just one to serve as an example so we put the videos to a class vote and here were the two which tied for 1st place. Even if you don't understand French, you will find these short videos fun to watch.
Grace R., Lily B., Sophie R.: https://youtu.be/ZHn7LwEDNq8?si=tA4Y2YTMcQuJXmfO
Bruce L. & Cameron S.: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=94o0cn6a5CE
New!: Peace Photo Contest
To help celebrate Earth Day, the UNESCO Schools of Canada is inviting schools to participate in the annual Peace Photo Contest. We hope you will enjoy the opportunity to get outside, encourage students to search for details in the natural world around them and use photography to document the beauty they discover.
What is the Peace Photo contest? The annual Peace Photo Contest challenges students to think like an artist and use photography for good. This year’s theme “See the Earth First” is a challenge to shift the lens of your camera away from people and make our beautiful planet the main subject. This art action project is intended as an entry point to help students connect to a national conversation happening in schools across all provinces and territories .
Who should participate? The contest is open to students in grades 4-9 in UNESCO Schools.
Attachments include:
· Big Idea Poster to promote the contest (can be printed on 8.5 x 11 paper)
· Release forms that give permission for student images to be used in an exhibit and on UNESCO Schools website and "See the Earth" materials.
Contest closes: May 22, 2025
Winners announced: June 5, 2025- World Environment Day
Photo submission: students are asked to email one large or actual sized, high resolution photograph per student participant along with title, full name, school and province along with a brief reflection (1-3 Sentences) to mebefore Thursday, May 22nd, 2025 (place “See the Earth First” in the subject line). I will forward all submissions on May 22nd. to be entered into the Canadian UNESCO Associated Network Schools Peace Photo Contest.
Criteria: The judges will look for photographic images that challenge the viewer to look more carefully at the natural world.
Prizes: An independent group of artists/ judges will award 3 prizes to the top photo entries.
First prize : $750.00
Second prize: $500.00
Third prize: $400.00
Honourable Mentions
Recipients must provide evidence that the funds awarded will be used for a sustainability project in the winner’s school or community. The winners and honourable mentions will be announced via email on June 5th, 2025 World Environment Day.
Exhibit: The exhibit is intended to demonstrate that art making gives children an opportunity to use their voice to shift thinking and impact positive change for a sustainable future.
A link to a virtual exhibit will be sent to lead teachers of every participating school. In addition, a selection of images and reflections will travel with a Canadian student delegation for display at the World Conservation Congress Oct 9-15, 2025. https://iucncongress2025.org/
Photo credit and reflection will include first name and province only to protect the privacy of student artists. Please do not include identifiable faces in your photos.
Participation requires students to sign the release form attached in this email.
See Mr. Hay if you have questions.
New!: Panfest Vybz 2025
The TDSB Arts Department and the Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement welcomes staff, students, and community to Panfest Vybz, a free evening and community event that celebrates Caribbean carnival culture through the Arts. The evening will include performances by student musicians from a variety of schools and the professional Impulse Steel Orchestra. For more information, please visit either the Panfest Vybz or Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement websites and RSVP to attend.
Date: Thursday May 8, 2025
Time: 6:30 - 8:30PM
Location: Winston Churchill CI, 2239 Lawrence Ave E., Scarborough, ON M1P 2P7
Agenda: Reception from 6:30 - 6:50PM; Procession and Performances starting 6:50 PM - 8:30 PM
Panfest Vybz Site: Google Site
Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement: https://www.tdsb.on.ca/CEBSA
Registration: bit.ly/Vybz-25
For more information, please contact Mervi Salo, Centrally Assigned Principal, Instructional Innovation and Equitable Outcomes (mervi.salo@tdsb.on.ca) or Rukiya Mohamed, Program Coordinator - Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement (rukiya.mohamed@tdsb.on.ca).
Mock Trial Competition
On May 1st, seven LP students competed in the OJEN Mock Trial Competition. Students engaged in delivering opening statements, examinations in chief, cross examinations and closing statements. Our students were professional, prepared and executed their roles exceptionally well. There were 32 teams from various schools across the GTA who competed. Although Lawrence Park fell short of making the top 4 teams that moved onto the finals on May 5th, they performed exceptionally well. We are very proud of all of their hard work and dedication. Congratulations to Sienna Brown, Maggie Johnson, Ryan Li, Sabrina Nguyen, Kyden Quansah, Tiya Tailor, Arissa Warriach.
Grad Photos
Hi everyone! I’m writing to let you know that our city-wide absentee day that we had on April 19th was a huge success, and we had more demand than we had available spots. Because of that, we are doing a second day for anyone who still needs it. Please note this photo is for their personal use only and will not be used in the grad composite or yearbook (if applicable) as it's too late in the year due to publishing deadlines. When they click the link below, they will be directed to a disclaimer, which will ensure they understand the image will not be used in the composite or yearbook. This must be done before any appointment can be booked. This event will take place on May 10th, 2025. I hope this helps for anyone who still needs a grad photo but please let me know if there's any other questions you may have. https://edgeimaging.ca/en/studio-day-disclaimer-2/.
Co-op Success Stories: – Spotlight on Student Achievement
Each week, we shine a light on the incredible work being done by our Co-op students across a range of exciting industries. From consulting and healthcare to film and automotive, these students are gaining hands-on experience, building confidence, and making a lasting impression at their placements.
Introducing This Week’s Co-op Stars:
Jake: Marketing and Sales Assistant at PromptaAI Consulting
Linda: Dental Assistant at Altima Bayview Village Dental Clinic
Nicole: Film Production Assistant at CREAM Productions
Ryan: Automotive Service Technician Assistant (OYAP) at Thornhill Honda
Co-op: Real-World Experience. Real-World Success.
Keep up the excellent work, students! Your dedication, leadership, and professionalism are a source of pride for our school community.
York U Opportunities!
Please see email below and Link for great opportunities for students trips at york university for students. Hope you can take them: https://fwim.ca/events-1462
June Exam Schedule
The final exam schedule has been updated and posted on our exam website. Please visit https://sites.google.com/tdsb.on.ca/lawrenceparkci/home and look under the ‘exam schedule’ tab. Please also see the ‘resources’ section for LPCI procedures and expectations on absences and missed exams. For a direct link to the June exam schedule, please see HERE. Exam prep sessions will be posted closer to the exam period. If there is something you would like to see us offer for exam support, please share your ideas with guidance!
Moratorium Period - June 12-17, 2025
During the moratorium period of four school days prior to the scheduled final exam days, there will be no:
excursions;
projects or assignments for students writing an examination;
culminating activities for students writing an examination.
Homework that is considered to be part of the systematic review and examination preparation process (such as review quizzes, sample examination questions, or practice tests) and that do not count for marks, may be assigned during the moratorium period. If there are no scheduled written examinations in the subject, in-class culminating activities will continue during the moratorium.
EQAO Math Assessment - Grade 9 for Semester 2
The grade 9 Math EQAO assessment for semester 2 will take place in June. It is worth 10% of the overall grade 9 Math course mark (MTH1W1/5). To ensure you're well-prepared for the upcoming assessment, a mandatory preparation class will be held on Tuesday, June 10th, during your regular Grade 9 Math class (MTH1W1/5). This important session will provide you with hands-on experience using the online EQAO platform on TDSB Chromebooks. You'll also have the opportunity to practice with sample Math EQAO questions, which you can preview HERE on the EQAO website. Following the preparation class, the Grade 9 Math EQAO assessment will take place over two sessions, both during your regular math periods:
Session 1: Wednesday, June 11th (Day 1)
Session 2: Thursday, June 12th (Day 2)
Attendance at both assessment sessions is required for completion. Students, please bring your fully charged TDSB Chromebook, if you have one, to your Math classes on Tuesday (June 10th), Wednesday (June 11th), and Thursday (June 12th). If you need any special accommodations, please talk to your grade 9 Math teacher or Mr. Ho, the ACL of Math, by Wednesday (June 4th) so we can arrange the accommodations for you on the EQAO days.
New!: Student Community Volunteer Opportunity!
Our 8th Annual Wanless Park Spring Fair is just a few weeks away on Saturday May 10th, 2025 from 10:00am-8:00pm.
We are thankful to the many dedicated volunteers, every year, that make our event possible. Volunteering is a great way to meet your neighbours, an opportunity to make new friends and a wonderful way to give back to our amazing neighbourhood! We welcome student volunteers that are looking for community hours. Bring a friend and work as a pair!🙂
We hope you can join us in the Park for a wonderful day of activities including family friendly games, inflatables, crazy competitions, BBQ, Pot Luck, and more. Entry is free and open to everyone.
If you are interested in getting involved, please send us an email at info@bwra.ca. Check us out at bwra.ca. The Bedford Wanless Ratepayers Association is a non-profit community organization serving Wanless Park and the surrounding area.
May Lyrics & PACE
The Music Department is not slowing down. Our students will perform at York University and STACKT Mark in May for MusicFest Canada and PACE, an interdisciplinary arts event highlighting the creative arts students of TDSB schools.
May Lyrics
May 1, 2025 at 7pm
LPCI Auditorium
Admission: $15 (free for current LPCI students)
Tickets will be available through SchoolCashOnline
Scarves by LPCI at PACE
Scarves are trending....Our wonderfully talented students have created some beautiful scarves. These will be available for sale at PACE on May 15th. The artists behind these beautiful designs are Joelle Tse ( grade 12 and Grade 11 creative team April Ballestrin, Lily Bosnar Willilams, and Charlotte Rowand.
John Fisher PS Fun Fair! Volunteering
Hello LP students! We are looking for volunteers for the John Fisher PS Fun Fair! It'll be held on Saturday 7th June and we need volunteers from 11:00am to 2:00pm, earning you 3 hours of volunteer time. Tasks will include running games and events such as bracelet making, cookie decorating, face painting and more. Please contact Nina Lathia (nina.lathia@gmail.com) if you have any questions or to sign up.
Self-Service Password Reset
In an effort to protect TDSB student accounts and increase security, IT Services is requesting we advise all students to register for Self-Service Password Reset (SSPR). This tool allows students to reset their passwords at home or school anytime, using any device connected to the Internet, without the assistance of staff. The SSPR tool is only available to students in Grades 5 through 12. Many of you have not registered for SSPR. This video demonstrates how students can register for SSPR. Additional information on using SSPR is available on ServiceIT. If you have any questions with regard to this notification, please contact School Community IT Support for assistance with SSPR.
Lawrence Park CI Website
Hey, check out the new Lawrence Park CI website @ www.lawrenceparkcollegiateinstitute.ca. Check out the latest news and events happening at LP! We'll also be posting photos and videos on everything LP on our site - from LP TV segments to event highlights! Be a part of our online school community!
Parents/Guardians/Caregivers
New!: I See You, Mama: Black Mothers Reimagining Schools for Their Children
What does leadership look like when Black mothers are at the centre of improving Black children’s outcomes? How do Black mothers’ everyday acts of care, advocacy, and resistance shape their children’s schooling experience? Join us for an insightful webinar that centres Black mothers’ leadership and work. Together, we’ll explore how Black mothers’ dreams, stories, and community-building practices challenge exclusion and transform schooling for Black children. This session highlights the many ways Black mothers engage in self and community care, as they organize for their children’s education. Grounded in current Canadian research, this session affirms what we already know: Black mothers lead in powerful ways schools often fail to see or name.
Date: May 21, 2025
Time: 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Audience: TDSB Parents/Caregivers and Community Members
Registration: https://tdsb-ca.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_cKerb6RDQHC2mxHlnvh0xQ
For more information, please contact Jeffrey Caton, Centrally Assigned Principal, Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement (jeffrey.caton@tdsb.on.ca) or Rukiya Mohamed, Program Coordinator - Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement (rukiya.mohamed@tdsb.on.ca).
New!: Social Media
This is our 4th and second last event for the school year. Please share this widely with your school communities. Great information, learning and tips about digital safety as well as food and giveaways! Parents/families/caregivers and guardians can register in the attached flyer. The link to register is also here Social Media and Safety: A Parents' Roadmap. For an engaging Social Media Safety Night for Parents on May 14th, 2025, from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Lambton Park Community School located at 50 Bernice Cres. Toronto,. Toronto Police Services (Child Exploitation Unit/Internet Child Exploitation) as well as TDSB partners will be presenting. TDSB Professional Support Services staff including community partners such as Youth Outreach Workers (YOW’s) will also be present.
This evening will include:
Practical strategies for navigating social media risks
Open discussion on online safety
Take-home resources and giveaways
Food and childcare
Commencement 2025 - Save the Date!
The Graduation Ceremony for the Class of 2025 will take place on Wednesday June 25 at 1:30PM, Parkview Manor, 55 Barber Greene Road, North York. Please mark the date in your calendar. More information about tickets will come available in the weeks ahead.
Upcoming Parent/Guardian/Caregiver Engagement Session: Strategies and resources to support students with ADHD
Special Education and Inclusion will host a session to explore strategies and resources to support students diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
Date: Wednesday, May 28, 2025
Time: 10:00 am - 11:30 am
Date: Thursday, May 29, 2025
Time: 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Check this flyer with your school communities.
Special Education and Inclusion Newsletter Parents/Guardians - Month of May
Please see the May 2025 Parent/Guardian Special Education and Inclusion Newsletter. All newsletters for parents/guardians/caregivers can be found on the external TDSB site.
New!: Absence from Exams and Final Evaluations
Absence from a Culminating Activity Evaluation:
Culminating activities are completed toward the end of a course and are part of the student’s 30% final evaluation. Culminating activities and examinations carry the same importance and the same attendance requirement. Thus, attendance during culminating activities is mandatory. Some courses have culminating activities that take place over several days.
If a student misses a culminating activity, the student will receive a mark of “0”. In the event that a student is too ill to complete a culminating activity, the parent/guardian must provide medical documentation of the illness. The parent/guardian is asked to contact the school before the culminating activity due date. The parent/guardian will be given the LPCI ‘Missed Evaluation’ Form to be completed by a medical doctor and submitted within two days of the missed culminating activity.
Family vacations are not considered excused absences and as such, students are expected to be in class for all culminating activities.
If satisfactory documentation of the illness is provided on the Missed Evaluation Form, the culminating activity may be rescheduled. Otherwise, the student will receive a mark of “0”.
Absence from a Final Examination:
Exam dates and times for all courses are set out in the exam schedule which has been distributed to students and parents/guardians. We are not able to accommodate any changes to the Exam Schedule or requests to write an exam at a date/time other than the scheduled date/time shown.
Students are urged to check their exam schedule carefully. If a student misses an exam because of misreading the schedule, the student will receive a mark of “0”.
In the event that a student is too ill to write a final exam, the parent/guardian must provide documentation of the illness. The parent/guardian is asked to contact the school before the Exam is written. The parent/guardian will be given the Lawrence Park CI ‘Missed Evaluation’ form to be completed by a medical doctor and submitted within two days of the missed exam.
Family vacations are not considered excused absences and as such, students are expected to be in attendance for all examinations.
If satisfactory documentation of the illness is provided on the missed evaluation form, an alternative evaluation may be scheduled. Students granted an alternative evaluation will receive a mark of “0” until they complete the alternative examination.
Late Arrivals During an Exam:
Each student is given a copy of the Exam Schedule at least two weeks before the examination. Punctuality is expected. Students who arrive late will be admitted to the exam up to one hour after the exam begins, but will not receive extra time.
Plagiarism/Academic Dishonesty:
Any student found copying from someone and/or in possession of notes or materials not permitted in the Exam Room will be deemed cheating. Electronic devices are not permitted in the exam room unless permission has been granted from the Vice-Principal (ie. electronic translation devices). Students using electronic devices during Exams to download or share information will be deemed to be cheating. This is a serious offence and may lead to a mark of “0”.
Amazing Cash and Prizes to be Won!
LPCI School Council is thrilled to announce our Spring Fling Online Raffle Fundraiser running from APRIL 22 through MAY 26.
Buy your tickets for chance to win great prizes from Raptors and Nutcracker Ballet tickets to beauty, jewellery and more – and yes, parents of graduating seniors, there will be coveted front row grad seats as part of the early bird draws so don’t delay. Last but not least… there is a $2,000 cash grand prize!
Tickets are 1= $25, 5 = $100 and 15 = $250 with a max of 2000 being sold.
Proceeds from the fundraiser will be going to support the renovation of our library, updating our science labs, purchasing new student chrome books and more
You must be 18 years or older and a resident of Ontario to purchase.
Click the link to purchase your tickets and share with family and friends so they, too, can get in on the action. https://www.rafflebox.ca/raffle/lpcipa
Buy one, buy many and as always, thank you for supporting our amazing LP community.
New:Parent/Caregivers IMPACT Symposiums
Calling all parents and caregivers! The City of Toronto’s Community Crisis Response Program and the TDSB Parent/Caregiver & Community Engagement Office invite you to IMPACT – Innovative Methods for Parents/Caregivers Today!
Join us this May for one of three powerful sessions designed to equip you with the knowledge and the tools to support your children. We’ll tackle the most pressing issues facing young people, including:
· Mental Health & Well- being & Vaping Dependency
· Social Media and Cellphone Dependency
· Criminality & Prevention
· Missing Youth & Community Safety
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect. Register soon as registration is limited.
Date
Time
Location
Registration Link
Saturday May 10, 2025
10:00 am-5:00 pm
David & Mary Thomson Collegiate-125 Brockley Drive, Toronto ON
https://lu.ma/ej9m7in1?locale=en-CA
Saturday May 24, 2025
10:00 am-5:00 pm
The Learning Enrichment Foundation-116 Industry Street Toronto ON
https://lu.ma/o81k46z4?locale=en-CA
Saturday May 31, 2025
10:00 am-5:00 pm
Rosedale Heights School of the Arts- 711 Bloor St E, Toronto, ON
Community Consultations
The TDSB aims to be responsive to the voices of communities by developing tailored action plans, each based on the pillars of the Anti Hate and Anti Racism Strategy. This Spring, TDSB students, families and community members who self-identify as part of the Asian diaspora are invited to attend a community consultation to support a multi-dimensional strategy that affirms diverse and intersectional Asian identities and addresses anti-Asian racism within the TDSB. Learn more. Dates: April 15 - May 20, 2025: Time: 5:30 PM; Audience: TDSB Students, Caregivers and Community.
TDSB Guide to Special Education and Inclusion Resource
Please take a moment to review the TDSB Guide to Special Education and Inclusion resource. https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/e/2PACX-1vS9iRFwtww1zR6UiNUmBTPU90kJzjFhM3S-3eqeWpZ9IcOXeUyKjdaXQy7NyQLI0g/pub?start=false&loop=false&delayms=3000&slide=id.p1
Steps to Address Questions and Concerns
Below is the best way to talk to us, and who you should reach out to and when (Please also refer to the TDSB Parent Concern Protocol (PR505) for more information):
Step 1 - Classroom Teacher
Any questions about the classroom
Classroom rules and consequences
Homework and assignments
Step 2 - School Principal
Concerns about an individual school
Student registration
Student schedules
Student suspensions
School Council
Code of Conduct
Safety and security
Budget and fundraising
Report card concerns
Homework and assignments
Step 3 - School Superintendents
Alternate attendance request
Suspension appeals
Step 4 - Trustees
Concerns about your community
Ideas and suggestions for the Board
Board policies under review
Items on Board Agendas
Board budget
Reporting An Absence
TDSB is offering a more efficient way for parents and caregivers to report all student absences, late arrivals, or future absences by using the School Messenger app. You can also report by calling the school messenger portal at 1-833-250-2290. All attendance being reported before 9:00AM must be done using School Messenger. You no longer need to call the school directly.
School Calendar and Vacation Planning 2024-25
The 2024-25 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. Please note that we will be scheduling final Exams and culminating activities for the 2024-25 school year in both January and June. 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.
School Council
New!: LPCI School Council Meeting, May 12
Please join us for LPCI School Council meeting May 12, 6:30pm. See below for link:
Microsoft Teams Need help?
Meeting ID: 247 667 985 655 5
Passcode: RU9NG7wm
School Council Website Address
The school council has a new website at a new address: www.lpschoolcouncil.ca.
School Council Social Media
Follow the Parent Council: Instagram: @lpciparentcouncil.
Clubs/Councils
New!: TEDxYouth@LPCI
A huge congratulations to our speakers who showcased their amazing TEDx Talks at our event on Wednesday April 23rd! We would like to extend a sincere thank you to all of those who helped us run this event! Our applications are open now for TEDxYouth@LPCI Executive positions for next year! Fill them out if you’re interested in being on our team! Here is the link:
https://forms.gle/PCTiCkiVuqMwpE6f9 Applications close May 16. Good luck!
New Drop-In Music Club: Explore Strings!
Is your child curious about playing a violin, viola, cello, or bass? Explore Strings is a new drop-in club where students can try and learn an orchestral string instrument in a fun and supportive environment. Every Monday after school in Room 119. No music experience necessary!
For questions or inquiries, please contact Ms. Wong at Megan.Wong@tdsb.on.ca. Come explore the world of strings with us!
Young Women on the Move
Would you like to join our team? YWM is a powerful mentorship initiative building meaningful relationships for young women in Grades 9-12. Our vision is to advocate for and empower young women and gender diverse people at LP to become agents of positive change, and to grow a network of socially conscious young women utilizing confidence and courage to create a caring and positive world. Join our google classroom to learn more! The class code is gekvf6a.
Athletics
Baseball Gloves
If you have any spare baseball/softball gloves we would love to put them to good use here at LP for our classes. Please drop them off in the main office. We had great luck with skates and sharpening so we thought we would see if there are any gloves collecting dust :)
EMA
For all teams an EMA (Excursion Management Application) form will need to be completed in order to try out. https://parent.ema.tdsb.on.ca/#/ - If you have any questions about EMA or are having trouble logging in please contact us.
Athletics
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!
Alumni
New!: Announcement about LPCI Alumni Association
Many thanks to Amanda Walton, LPCI ’81, for her many years of leadership, dedication, persistence and thoughtful approach as head of the LPCIAA committee. Amanda has guided the volunteers through setting up this group, starting the Alumni Association Award and she was the lead on the school's 75th anniversary celebrations. This is a legacy of which she can be very proud. A collective voice of THANK YOU to Amanda from all of us.
We’re thrilled to announce Marilyn Horrick and Debbie Dykes as the two new Co-Chairs of the Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute Alumni Association (LPCIAA) Committee. Marilyn (‘88) and Debbie (‘73), are both founding and current members of the LPCIAA committee.
Marilyn’s early days at Allenby and Glenview led to five formative years at LPCI. There, she developed her love of language, writing, music, leadership, and teamwork—skills that have carried her through her career in Toronto, her work supporting several not for profits and associations, and a lifelong connection to the LP community. A proud alumna who has co-chaired multiple reunions for the Class of ‘88, Marilyn is passionate about strengthening the bond between alumni, students, and the school. She’s excited for this opportunity to expand our community through Alumni engagement and celebrate the LP spirit we all share.
Debbie went from John Ross Robertson, to Glenview (first group to do both years) to Lawrence Park. She thoroughly enjoyed five great years of education at LP delivered by awesome teachers and administrators. Debbie lives and works in Victoria, BC as a Teacher on Call after retiring from full time in the gym/classroom. She has been on LP ‘73 reunion committees up to and including the recent 50th celebrations. Debbie is keen to foster the connection between past and present LPCI community members. She wishes all the best to current students and staff, and kudos to 2025 Grads. Give a cheer for the good old gold and blue!!
Online
The LPAA website is up and running, but still a work in progress. You can find it at https://www.lpcialumni.com/. Perhaps the biggest initiative continues to be getting every Robur and commencement program uploaded to the site. Alumnus Nancy Hamparian has been the driver of the initiative, but with some encouragement from Principal Griesz, we now have about a dozen student volunteers working on website projects. Relevant to us, the 1979, 1980 and 1910 Roburs are online. 1982 and 1983 are in the works.
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.
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. Any questions or comments about what I’ve written here? Shoot me an email don@perrylaw.ca.
Library
Newsletter
Please see our LPCI Library Learning Commons April 17th 2025 Newsletter
Library Learning Commons
Please see our LPCI Library Learning Commons Website. Please join with the Google classroom with the code 2mvgxib
Library Social Media
Follow the Library on Instagram: lpci.library
Follow the Library on X: @LPCIlibrarylife
Library Further Information
Please refer to the LPCI Library page from the main LPCI website for more information about general Library information.
Library Teacher-Librarian Contact information
Julia Zwaan (ACL Library & Special Projects)
julia.zwaan@tdsb.on.ca
416.393.9500 extension 20010
Adam Solakis (ACL English)
adam.solakis@tdsb.on.ca
416.393.9500 extension 20010
Upcoming Guest Speakers
Future Speakers
In accordance with the Ministry of Education's memorandum Strengthening Academic Achievement and Transparency and TDSB PR589 Vetting External Presentations Procedure this email serves notice of upcoming guest speakers.
Date:
Time:
Location:
Audience:
Presenter:
Topic:
Guidance
Guidance Google Classroom
Students are reminded to check their guidance Google Classroom for important updates, including post-secondary information, volunteer opportunities, and more.
Guidance Appointments
Please use this link to request a guidance appointment.
Summer School
Registration for TDSB E-Summer is now open! TDSB E-Summer will only be offering grade 11 and grade 12 courses. Students must submit parent/guardian approval form to complete their registration.
Program Dates:
July Session July 2 to July 25
August Session July 28 to Aug 22
Please note that although e-Summer courses are asynchronous, they are not self-paced courses. Assignments and evaluations are to be completed and submitted according to the due dates established in the course outline. Students are expected to log in and commit 6-7 hours daily to engage in and complete work independently.
TDSB Summer School- Continuing Education
Registration for TDSB Summer School- Continuing Education is now open.
Program Dates: July 2-25, 2025
Learning model: synchronous
Remote - live & synchronous learning Gr 9 & 10 courses only
In Person - various locations - Gr 9-12 courses
Remote Credit Recovery -Gr. 9-12 courses
**Civics/Careers is ONLY offered through Con-Ed during July**
Registration Dates: April 22 to June 17
On-Line to Success-Ontario (OLTS)
The 2025 Summer OLTS-Ontario cohort applications are open until June 18, 2025.
On-Line to Success-Ontario (OLTS) is a transition program for students going from secondary to post-secondary school. The summer program is intended for students going into Grade 12 or post secondary for the 25/26 academic year.
The OLTS program is for students across Ontario with learning disabilities, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and/or mental health disorders, including (but not limited to): depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and OCD.
See the website for more information.
Ontario Universities Information Sessions
The Ontario Universities Information Sessions will be held on May 22, 2025, from 5 to 7 pm (ET)
This virtual event is divided into 4 sessions, where students can learn about the universities of their choice and ask questions. This event is tailored to Grade 11 and younger students who are beginning their university research. Registration is available now.
Save the Date! Ontario Universities Fair (OUF)
Ontario Universities Fair (OUF): Toronto, September 27-28, 2025, 9:30 am to 5 pm daily
The OUF is one of the largest educational fairs in North America. Students can gather information and chat one-on-one with students, staff and faculty from Ontario's universities. Stay tuned for more information!
Scholarships and Opportunities
There are several scholarship opportunities posted on grade 11 and grade 12 Google Classrooms. Below are some opportunities we would like to highlight.
New!: The Rick & Amanda Hansen Scholarship for Youth with Disabilities
Rick and Amanda Hansen believe that people of all abilities should have the right to a barrier-free education. The Rick & Amanda Hansen Scholarship for Youth with Disabilities provides financial support to Canadian youth with disabilities to pursue post-secondary education. Funding of up to $10,000 per year (up to a maximum of $40,000) is available for youth with disabilities looking to complete a 1 to 5 year post-secondary program at a publicly funded institution in Canada. Applications are currently open and will be accepted for the 2025-26 academic year until Wednesday May 14, 2025 at 11:59 P.M. Pacific Time. Further information and the application for this scholarship can be accessed here.
The Black Foundation of Community Networks
The BFCN Scholarship Directory is a free, detailed, and up-to-date compilation of 50+ available scholarships, awards, and bursaries for youth pursuing post-secondary education primarily at the undergraduate level. This directory was created to support Black students and their families, educators, guidance counselors, and coaches search, find, and apply for funding opportunities. There are several scholarship opportunities available with deadlines throughout the spring and summer. Please click here to access the scholarship directory.
Toronto Police 53 Division Student Leadership Bursary
Grade 12 students are invited to submit an application to the Toronto Police 53 Division Student Leadership Bursary. The 53 Division Community Police Liaison Committee (CPLC) identified youth education as one of their main service priorities. One challenge facing our youth today is their lack of marketable skills for sustainable employment. Recognizing this challenge, the CPLC has established Student Leadership Bursary Awards to assist post-secondary students achieve marketable skills through further education and apprenticeship programs. This one-time $3,000.00 bursary will be awarded to students who live or go to school within 53 Division. Please see the following link for more information. Applications are due by May 11, 2025.
Volunteer Opportunities
Check out the volunteer hours available this month - there are lots of fun fairs and community activities! Check out your grade’s guidance Google Classroom for more information.
Guidance Counsellors
Poh-Lin Teh, Surnames A to G
poh-lin.teh@tdsb.on.ca
416.393.9500, extension 20043
Janine Sacks, Surnames H to N
janine.sacks@tdsb.on.ca
416-393-9500 x 20041
Christina Meyer, ACL of Guidance, Surnames O to Z
christina.meyer@tdsb.on.ca
416-393-9500 x 20042
Land Acknowledgement: We, the students, staff and community members of Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute, acknowledge we are on the lands of the Mississaugas of the Anishinaabe, the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, and the Wendat. We also recognize the enduring presence of all First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples.
Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute was built on Treaty 13 Lands of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, negotiated in 1805. We are grateful for the opportunity to meet and learn here, and we honour the generations of Indigenous Peoples for taking care of the land since time immemorial.
We are committed to working on healing our relationship with First Nations, Metis, and Inuit peoples and want to better understand Indigenous perspectives and relationships with the environment. We are committed to unlearning the ideologies of colonialism, centering Indigenous voices, and engaging in meaningful actions towards reconciliation.