**New Attendance System**

We are excited to introduce SafeArrival, a new attendance management system being rolled out across OCSB schools. SafeArrival is designed to make it easier, faster, and more convenient for families to report absences and late arrivals.

SafeArrival helps schools verify attendance more efficiently, enhances student safety, and keeps families informed in real time. Many school boards across the country already use this system, and parents consistently report that they appreciate its convenience and ease of use.

With SafeArrival, there's no need to call the school and leave a message. Instead, you can quickly and securely report your child's absence in one of three ways:

1. Using the SchoolMessenger Home App: Download and install the SchoolMessenger Home app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
   If you already have the SchoolMessenger app or an account, you can log in to the new SM Home app using the same credentials. If you don't already have an account, please create one using the email address on file with your child’s school. Follow these instructions to submit an absence.
   
   

2. Online: Visit home.schoolmessenger.ca.
   The first time you visit, click Sign Up to create your account using the email address on file with your child’s school.
   Once you have an account, click the avatar in the upper right corner and select Attendance, then Report an Absence. Follow these instructions to submit an absence.
   
   

3. Phone: Call the toll-free number 1-844-478-2598 and follow the prompts to report your child's absence using the automated phone system. Follow these instructions to submit an absence. 

Using SafeArrival, you can:

• Report absences in advance or respond to unexplained absences.

• Notify the school for multiple children all at once.

• Include a reason for each absence with just a few taps.

• Ensure school staff are alerted promptly and can follow up quickly if needed.

If you have any questions or need support setting up SafeArrival, please contact the school office—we're happy to help.

Thank you for your on-going cooperation and support in helping us ensure the safety and well-being of all our students.

What's on this week

Monday January 5th

• Happy New Year - Wecome back to School!

Tuesday January 6th

• Subway lunch (for those who ordered)

• 
  

Wednesday January 7th

• Pizza

• Gr. 2-4 Art/Comic Club (lunch recess)

• "Flaming Pencils" writing club - Gr. 4-6 (lunch recess)

Thursday January 8th

• Pita Pit Lunch (for those who ordered)

Friday January 9th

• Popcorn - (for those who ordered)

Good Shepard Parish News

December Parish News in detail can be found HERE. 

A more brief overview can be found HERE.