Sabre News
Important Dates to Remember
Winter Holidays: December 23, 2023 until January 7, 2024
Wednesday, January 10: English 30-1 & 30-2 Part A Diploma Exam
Monday, January 22: Math 30-1 & Math 30-2 Diploma
Tuesday, January 23: English 30-1 & 30-2 Part B Diploma Exam
Tuesday, January 23: Last Day of Senior High Classes
Wednesday, January 24: Social 20-1 & 20-2 Final Exams
Wednesday, January 24: Last Day of Junior High Classes
Principal's Report
We made it!
Beginning today at 3pm and running until 8:24am on January 8th, students and staff have a two week break to enjoy a combination of any or all of family, friends, feasting and frivolity.
So, from our Thorsby Junior Senior High School Family to you and yours, whether those you love are near or far, we extend the warmest holiday greetings.
May you experience joy, hope, and happiness today, and in the year to come.
New Canadian Crisis Helpline - 988
There is a new nation wide suicide crisis helpline that went live Thursday, November 30. You can call or text 24/7/365. Not only is this a great resource for anyone who is having thoughts of suicide, but it is also there for anyone who is concerned about anyone else.
As the holiday season ramps up, we recognize it is not an easy time for everyone. Please reach out if you or a loved one needs support.
More information Below
Free Counselling for Residents of Leduc County
Eligibility:
Residents must meet two criteria to be eligible for this subsidy:
1) Gross family household income less than $75,000
2) No access to employee insurance benefits.
Sessions & Rates:
3 individual sessions per person OR
6 couple sessions OR
9 family sessions OR
7 group sessions per person.
Call 780-955-6421 for more information.
Recharge & Renew:
Staying Healthy During the Holidays
While the holidays can be happy and rejuvenating, there can also be a lot of stress, particularly with how busy the season can be.
If you need supports, here are some resources to access for support.
Junior High Midterm/Senior High Final Exam Schedule
Please follow this link for the exam schedule.
All final exams must be written at their scheduled time. If you are unable to write for some reason, a parent must contact Mrs. Hrytsak directly to make alternate arrangements. Please note that we absolutely cannot move diploma exams.
If a diploma is missed, again, parents must contact Mrs. Hrytsak or Mr. Hodges and the student will have to write in April.
If you have a conflict between two exams, please contact your teacher and Mrs. Hrytsak to make alternate arrangements.
Calling all Grade 11 Students!
150+ Scholarships are now available.
APPLICATION DATES: DECEMBER 1, 2023 - MARCH 15, 2024
The Horatio Alger Association of Canada scholarships for grade 11 students just opened and we wanted to share this with you with the hopes you may know some eligible students!
Every year we have over 150 scholarships available to students at up to $10,000 each for students that display integrity and perseverance in overcoming adversity, and wanting to pursue higher education.
Scholarships are available for those entering undergraduate degrees as well as vocational & technical programs.
Eligibility Requirements:
Be enrolled full time as a grade 11 student or first-year CEGEP student in Canada
Exhibit a strong commitment to pursue and complete a bachelor’s degree at an accredited university
Demonstrate critical financial need ($65,000 or lower adjusted gross family income is required)
Demonstrate desire and ability to be entrepreneurial in a chosen field
Be involved in co-curricular and community service activities
Display integrity and perseverance in overcoming adversity
Maintain a minimum grade percentage average of 70
Be a Canadian citizen
NAIT: Program Previews
February & March 2024
February & March 2024
Registration is now open for NAIT’s Program Previews events on campus in February and March 2024. Click the TIME to register!
JR Shaw School of Business: Thursday, February 1 (5:30-7:30pm)
School of Applied Sciences & Technology: Wednesday, February 28 (5:30-8:00pm)
School of Health & Life Sciences: Saturday, March 9 (starts at 8:30am)
School of Skilled Trades: Saturday, March 16 (9am-2pm)
Get a deeper dive into our schools and programs, entrance requirements and student supports. Plus, discover how NAIT grads are prepared with real skills and relevant knowledge to hit the ground running in their careers.
Students can register to attend any one of our Program Preview events below and get entered for a chance to win a $100 Visa gift card!
Student Enrollment Verification
A couple of weeks ago we sent out your students' details for verification. If you find a spare minute getting those as early as possible is very helpful. You can find them in the parent portal on the left side in the menu there. Thank you in advance, we appreciate your help.
Alberta Education Assurance Survey
Office to Advance Women Apprentices
Edmonton will be getting an office soon!
This initiative, funded by the Government of Canada, if an innovative approach to enhance the success of women in trades. The phone number is accessible both to call and text!
If you are a young woman interested in the trades, check them out.
Fundraising in Our Community
All active fundraisers will be listed here and will indicate what group they support, who you can contact for more information and when deadlines are.
Battery Fundraiser - Grad 2024 (until January 15, 2024)
Do you have old batteries laying around? Contact any graduate to have them pick up your batteries for recycling!
Bottle Collection - Grad 2024 (ongoing)
Smelly bottles and cans cluttering your space? Contact any graduate to get them picked up or they can be taken in to the Thorsby Bottle Depot and ask to be put towards the Thorsby Grad 2024 fundraiser.
Christmas Spirit Week Activities
We had lots of fun this week with extra activities and tasks.. From Holiday head gear to Pajama Day, there were lots of ways to show our Christmas Spirit!
Staff vs Students Hockey Game
Thank you so much to everyone in the community that was able to participate in this year's Staff vs Student hockey game! This year had some big goals and even bigger collisions on the ice. The Staff (Community) team was able to pull off a narrow victory, winning 10-9 in a shootout. The students had an amazing game and time playing against their teachers, parents, RCMP, and valued members of the community. The support from the community to put on an event such like this is unlike any other.
"It was a tough fought game. We had a tough loss in what should have been a banner year. I see great future potential with the youth of our team. I personally guarantee a win in 4 years when we are older, faster, stronger and better than the community." Blake Morrissey (Grade 8)
Book Recs from Gourley
Embark on an extraordinary journey with "Fablehaven" by Brandon Mull! Join siblings Kendra and Seth as they uncover the magical secrets hidden within their grandparents' wildlife sanctuary. This enchanting tale weaves together mythical creatures, epic adventures, and a battle between good and evil that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Brandon Mull's imaginative storytelling paints a vivid picture of Fablehaven, making it a must-read for students who crave excitement, mystery, and a touch of humor. Get ready to explore a fantastical world filled with wonder, courage, and important lessons about the choices we make. "Fablehaven" is the perfect escape into a realm where imagination knows no bounds!
Bonus: We have these in the Library!
Weekly Round Up
Subway and Hot Lunch
We wil once again be offering Subway subs on Wednesdays this year. Orders and money are due on the Monday prior at 10:00 am. Subs are $5.50 and can be purchased at the Office or online.. Our next Sub order will be on January 10 so orders are due January 8
We are fortunate to be able to participate in the Hot Lunch program with the Elementary School. Individual entres are $4. Students can also purchase groups of Hot Lunch tickets online..
January 9--Taco in a Bag
January 12--Pizza
January 16--Pancakes and Sausage
January 19--Grilled cheese
January 23--Burgers
January 26--Nuggs and Nachos
January 30--Pizza pops and Jello
Ski Club is Back!
Mrs. McLeod has been busy planning Ski Club for this winter! She has booked all of the dates for ski nights and for the Ski trip to Marmot Basin in March. Check out the days here. All levels of skiers are welcome to come out! Fees and forms are up on Power School
Next Ski Club is January 18: forms and payment are due by noon on Monday January 15
January 18
February 5 and 15
March 4 and 13
Marmot Basin--March 21/22
Work Ex and RAP Programs
If you are interested in the RAP or Work Ex Program, come see Miss Powlik. She has all of the paperwork and can answer any questions you might have.
Health and Safety in Our School
Vaping is of particular concern, not only at our school but in schools across the world. Our hope is that together with parents and other stakeholders we can increase knowledge of the effects of vaping and, by doing so, reduce their consumption
I have included links to several resources below as well as a link to our statement of fair notice regarding the consequences for failing to adhere to the rules related to illegal substances I have outlined above.
Fair Notice on Vaping For Thorsby Junior Senior High School
Gov't of Canada: Consequences of Vaping
What we do and don't know about vaping
Bus App
Not sure if your child's bus is running? Download the app! Details on how to do this can be found here: Bus Status 4
Yearbooks
2022-2023 are here!! If you ordered one, come down and get your copy. If you'd like a copy, they are $40 and are available in the Office.. You can also purchase them on your Power school account
Bell Schedule
Community Events
Click on this link to check out the Board Highlights for October and November