Beyond The Desk

Just a reminder about the Pay to Wear Casual day tomorrow. It is a fundraiser for our fabulous library to help us acquire more fabulous materials for the students. The cost is $5. Those students not wishing to participate can wear their regular uniforms.

Also, a reminder about the Grade 6 Grad that is coming up soon.

As we continue planning our graduation evening, we need your help! If you have not done so already, please take a moment to fill out the jot form linked below, and kindly attach two photos of your child:

• One recent photo
• One baby photo

Additionally, there’s a section where you can upload any class photos you have from previous years. These memories will make our graduation celebration even more special!

Important Update: The time for our grad ceremony has changed! Please note the new details:

• Date: Friday, June 6th
• Start Time: 6:00 PM
• Pick-Up Time: 10:30 PM

Photos are due by Friday, May 16th. Please note that there is also a spot on the form to add the number of family members you would like to bring with you to the ceremony. 

Thank you once again for all your support. We can’t wait to celebrate this milestone with all of you!

Link to Jot Form: https://highroadacademy.jotform.com/251115018602948

What a heartwarming day we had today for Grandparent’s Day! It was truly special to see so many grandparents and special visitors filling our classrooms and hallways. The joy on students’ faces as they showed off their work, shared stories, and spent time with their loved ones was unforgettable. Thank you to all the families who helped make the day meaningful. It was a beautiful reminder of the strength of our school community and the generations that support our students every day.

Chapel Reminder – Wednesday

A reminder to parents of the following students that they will be participating in our upcoming chapel on Wednesday. We are so proud of their leadership and willingness to share their gifts:

• Tech – Ari, Elliot

• Vocals – Jordan, Sina, Alexis, Danna

• Keys – Alivia, Grace

• Bass – Kianna

• Drums – Jace

• Acoustic Guitar – McKena

• Electric Guitar – David

• Percussion – Nathan

• Door Greeters – Thomas, Emilie

Please ensure your child arrives on time and is prepared for the morning. Thank you for supporting their involvement in this important part of our school life!

Important Dates

• Friday, May 16 – Professional Development Day (No School)

• Monday, May 19 – Victoria Day Holiday (No School)

I hope your family enjoys the long weekend ahead!

Dear Parents,

I hope this post finds you well as we move into a very full and exciting stretch of our school year. With spring in full bloom, our classroom is buzzing with learning, special events, and new units of study.

Bible Focus
This Tuesday’s memory verse is Psalm 139:7 (NIV):

“Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?”

This verse has encouraged meaningful reflection among our Grade 6 students. Many of them are starting to face new experiences and responsibilities, both socially and academically. We’ve been talking about how God is always with us—on the sports field, during a tough test, in a difficult conversation, or even when we feel unsure or anxious. This verse reminds us that no matter where we are or what we’re facing, we’re never alone.

Upcoming Events & Dates to Remember

📅 Monday, May 12 – Grandparents Day
We are so excited to welcome grandparents to our school! All grandparents (or other members of the family if grandparents are not available) are invited to a special assembly beginning at 12:30 PM, followed by a lovely afternoon of visiting and classroom activities and continuing until the end of the school day. We look forward to celebrating these wonderful members of our families.

👕 Wednesday, May 14 – Pay to Wear Casual Day ($5)
Students can dress casually on Wednesday with a $5 donation. All proceeds go to support our school library, helping us refresh and update our collection of books. Thank you for supporting a love of reading!

🧠 Wednesday, May 21 – Puberty Education Afternoon
Grade 5 students will take part in separate boys’ and girls’ sessions to learn about puberty in an age-appropriate and respectful way. Participation is optional. If your child will not attend, you are welcome to pick them up at 12:00 PM. More details are available in the info packets at the school office.

📌 Friday, May 16 – Pro D Day (No School)
📌 Monday, May 19 – Victoria Day (No School)

🎭 Thursday, May 22 – Ignite Theatre Performance
We’re excited for an engaging performance through Ignite Theatre!

🎶 Friday, May 30 – Spring Showcase at 1:00 PM
Join us for a celebration of student learning and creativity at our annual Spring Showcase. We hope to see you there!

In the Classroom

✍️ Language Arts
We’ve just begun a new unit on writing mysteries. Students are working hard to write and design their own short mystery books to share with their Kindergarten Buddies. Writing for a younger audience is a creative challenge—they’re learning how to simplify plot, use strong clues, and keep their readers guessing!

🧬 Science
We’ve launched our unit on the nervous system! Students will explore how our bodies send and receive signals, how reflexes work, and how the brain and spinal cord play a role in everything we do. Expect some fun experiments and investigations coming soon!

➗ Math
We recently wrapped up our unit on Volume and Capacity and are now diving into Fractions. Our focus is on improper fractions and mixed numbers—how to convert between them and model them in different ways. Hands-on materials and visual models will help students make sense of these sometimes tricky concepts. You should see a newsletter on the new concepts very soon as we start this new unit.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership. As always, if you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out.

It’s finally here!!!! It’s May the fourth today! May the fourth be with you!

Just a reminder that even though May the fourth is today, students can still dress up as their favourite Star Wars character or superhero tomorrow. Students not wishing to dress up can wear their normal uniforms.

It’s May the Fourth and you know what that means! It’s Star Wars day! (Get it? May the Fourth be with you?).

In honour of the day and the cool factor, I have put a bunch of my favorite Star Wars videos on the blog today! Have a great day!

 

 

 

 

What If Dr. Seuss Wrote Star Wars!

Here is a fun Star Wars video I found made entirely out of paper!

Finally, here is a great lego stop motion of one of my favorite scenes from The Empire Strikes Back along with a bunch of great Star Wars videos!

 

We are vey excited about our upcoming track meet tomorrow, and it looks like the weather will be on our side. I sent more information about the event yesterday which you should have received, so please make sure to check it out. Due to the amount of time needed to get there, traffic and early start time, we will be leaving the school at 7:00. Students should be at the school by 6:50. We will be arriving back at approx. 4:00 depending on traffic. 

Students should have the following items to take with them: 

• Sunscreen 
• Hat 
• Water bottle  
• Lunch and snacks (there are no places to purchase food at the park) 
• gym clothes for competing in – Highroad shirts would be great to show off. 
• Warmer clothing in case it is cool, especially in the early morning.
• Proper footwear 
• Something to do on the bus. Just a reminder that no electronics are allowed on the bus. 

We are looking forward to a wonderful day.

Dear Families,

Prepare to be captivated by an unforgettable night of creativity and inspiration! Our talented Grade 4-6 students have poured their hearts into masterpieces that will amaze and delight.  Bring your family and friends and immerse yourselves in a magical world of color, imagination, and artistic expression.

🌟 Art Gala Details
📅 Date: This Monday, April 28th
📍 Location: The Chapel
⏰ Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM

Spring is blooming with activity in Grade 6, and we have so many exciting things to share!

New Bible Memory Verse: Psalm 139:5
“You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me.”
This powerful verse reminds us that God surrounds us with His protection and love at all times. For our Grade 6 students—who are growing, learning, and often stepping into new or challenging situations—this verse is a comforting reminder that they are never alone. Whether facing a tough assignment, a tricky friendship, or preparing for big changes ahead, God is always close, guiding and supporting them.

Art Gala – Time Update
Our Art Gala is fast approaching! Please note the updated time:
📅 Monday, April 28
🕕 6:00 – 7:30 PM
Highroad Chapel

Come celebrate the incredible creativity of our students. Their artistic talents have been shining brightly and we can’t wait for you to see their work!

Track & Field – May 1st
The Grade 6 Track Meet is right around the corner on Wednesday, May 1st. It’s going to be a day full of teamwork, fun, and friendly competition. A reminder: some permission forms are still outstanding—please return them as soon as possible so everyone can participate.

Notes Home
Recently, we sent home notes about two important upcoming events:

1. Grandparents Day – Invitations were sent home today!

2. Puberty & Sex Education Afternoon – Wednesday, May 21st
   This week, families received an email and letter about the upcoming puberty and sex education afternoons for Grades 5 & 6 students. The school is offering information packages at the office for those who want to learn more. Attendance is not mandatory, and parents can pick up their child at noon on Wednesday, May 21^st, if they prefer.  Grade five students will attend the session on puberty, and grade six students will attend the sex education session.

We appreciate your partnership in making sure these important conversations happen in a way that supports your family values and comfort.

Grade 6 Graduation – Let’s Celebrate!
We are thrilled to announce that our recent bake sale raised $1,800, which means all graduation costs are covered! Thank you for your amazing support! 🎉

As we begin planning this milestone event, we need your help: Please submit the following photos by Friday, May 16th:

• One recent photo

• One baby photo

• (Optional) Any class photos from past years

Graduation Details:
🗓 Friday, June 6
🕕 Start Time: 6:00 PM
🕥 Pick-Up Time: 10:30 PM

📎 Upload your photos and RSVP here

We can’t wait to celebrate this special evening with all of you!

May 5 – Star Wars /Superhero Dress-Up Day!
Calling all Jedi, Wookiees, and rebels! On May 5th, students are welcome to dress up in their best Star Wars gear. Whether you’re from the Light Side or the Dark Side, it’s sure to be a fun day full of galactic spirit! Please leave any play weapons at home.

Thank you for staying connected and for all the ways you support our Grade 6 community. We’re looking forward to an amazing final term together!

Spring is in full swing, and with it comes a flurry of exciting events coming up! The days are going by fast.

Jersey Day – April 16
Don’t forget—this Wednesday is Jersey Day! Students are encouraged to wear their favourite team jersey or shirt to school. Whether it’s a local team or a pro favourite, we can’t wait to see the variety of colour and teams in our classroom (though I know most of the students will be wearing Oilers jerseys!!!)

Easter Long Weekend and Assembly
There will be no school on Friday, April 18 (Good Friday) and Monday, April 21 (Easter Monday). Before the break, we will be participating in a special Easter Assembly on Thursday morning to reflect and celebrate this meaningful season together. God is good. I am also very excited as my own son will be getting baptized on Sunday. We are so proud of him!

Professional Development Day – April 25
Please note that Friday, April 25 is also a PD Day, so there will be no classes for students.

Art Gala – April 28
Mark your calendars for our always-anticipated Art Gala on Monday, April 28 from 6:30–8:00 PM. Students’ creative work will be on display, and it’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate their artistic accomplishments with family and friends. You need to come out and see the amazing Science posters that the students have created. They are absolutely stunning.

Memory Verse for Tomorrow
Our Memory Verse for tomorrow is Psalm 139:3 – “You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.” Please take a few minutes to review this verse with your child.

Bake Sale Success!
A huge thank you to everyone who contributed to and supported our recent Bake Sale! Thanks to your generosity, we raised enough funds to fully cover the cost of our Grade 6 Graduation celebration. We are so grateful!

Math: From Area to Volume
We’ve just wrapped up our unit on Area of rectangles, parallelograms, triangles, and trapezoids. Up next: Volume and Capacity! Be on the lookout for a Math Newsletter coming home soon, outlining what we’ll be learning and how you can support at home.

Reading & Writing: Mysteries and Adventures!
Students are diving into a combined Reading and Writing unit on Mysteries and Adventures. We’ve started writing Choose Your Own Adventure stories—some students are even adding coding elements to their narratives! We’ve also been honing our inferencing skills by solving mystery challenges together.

Science: From Space to the Human Body
We are finishing our Space unit with an exciting final project: students are designing solutions for fictional communities on other planets—and bringing their ideas to life using our 3D printer! After that, we’ll be launching into a new Science unit on Human Body Systems, and we’ll also be kicking off our annual Genius Hour projects. So many opportunities for curiosity and creativity!

Track Meet
The annual track meet is coming up. It is always a wonderful day (except the one year it was cold and raining). The kids love being out in the sunshine and we always have lots of fun participating in the events. You should have received a form to sign and send back. You have the option to have your child go on the bus or drive your own child to the track meet. We also need parents to help out and the event. It’s very easy and you will still have lots of time to see your child participate in the events. Please note on the form whether you are able to attend and help out.

Thank you as always for your continued support and enthusiasm. If you have any questions or would like to volunteer for upcoming events, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Wishing everyone a joyful Easter and a wonderful April ahead!

Welcome Back from Spring Break!

I hope everyone had a wonderful and refreshing Spring Break! As we dive back into the school routine, I’m excited for the many activities, events, and learning opportunities ahead. Be sure to check out the latest updates below, including an important link for our bake sale and details on joining the middle school track team.

New Link for the Bake Sale

Attention Highroad Academy families!

A quick reminder of our Bake Sale on Tuesday, April 8th, to raise funds for our Grade Six graduation! This is a wonderful opportunity for our community to support our sixth graders.

Here’s How You Can Help:

Students can choose from two options:

1. Bake and Bring: Bring in 2 dozen homemade baked goods to sell.

2. Send in Support: If baking isn’t an option, send in $20 cash with your child to help purchase treats.

Important Dates:

Bake Goods Due: Morning of Tuesday, April 8th

Monetary Contributions: Please send $20 cash (no debit machine available)  by Friday, April 4th

The previous link for our upcoming bake sale was only accessible to those within our school network. We’ve created a new link to ensure everyone can view the details and sign up.

Click here to access the updated bake sale document.

Thank you for your support, and we appreciate your contributions to this sweet fundraiser!

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Join the Middle School Track Team!

Are you in grades 6 to 8 and ready to take on an exciting challenge? The middle school track team is gearing up for the season, with practices starting right after spring break and several meets scheduled in April and May!

If you love to run, jump, or compete, this is your chance to be part of a fun and active team. To sign up or ask questions, email Mrs. Goosen at pgoosen@highroadacademy.com.

Don’t miss out—get ready to hit the track! 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️

Bake Sale

 We’re excited to announce our Bake Sale on Tuesday, April 8th, to raise funds for our Grade Six graduation! This is a wonderful opportunity for our community to support our sixth graders.

Here’s How You Can Help:

Students can choose from two options:

1. Bake and Bring: Bring in 2 dozen homemade baked goods to sell.

2. Send in Support: If baking isn’t an option, send in $20 cash with your child to help purchase treats.

Important Dates:

Bake Goods Due: Morning of Tuesday, April 8th

Monetary Contributions: Please send $20 cash (no debit machine available)  by Friday, April 4th

Please use the link below to sign up and indicate what your child will bring to the bake sale.

Bake Sale Sign Up .docx

If grocery costs are a concern, please email Mrs. Goosen at pgoosen@highroadacademy.com, and she will provide supplies for your child to bake treats.

Thank you for your support! Let’s make this Bake Sale a sweet success for our graduates!