Gator Gazette Feb. 23 - 27, 2026

Week of February 23^rd -February 27^th, 2026

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Families planning to move or students not returning in September

As we begin our planning for the 2026-2027 school year, we kindly ask you to inform the school office if your family has plans to move over the summer or if your children will not be returning in September for any reason. This information helps us to ensure a smooth transition for all students and to make necessary staffing arrangements for the upcoming academic year.  Your cooperation is greatly appreciated and helps us in planning effectively for the new school year. Thank you for your support. 

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Pink Shirt Day - Wednesday, February 25, 2026 

~ Wear pink to support anti-bullying!

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Tips for Speaking With Your Child After a Tragic Event~ Supporting Family Conversations

The Board’s website has tips for speaking with your child after a tragic event. The information was prepared with resources from the National Association of School Psychologists, the Ontario Psychological Association, and the American Psychological Association.

LDAYS Aurora March Break Camp

The camp is designed specifically for children ages 8 to 12 with learning disabilities and ADHD, where campers dive into learning new skills like introducing oneself, ways to make friends, responding to teasing, being a good winner and loser, dealing with emotions, problem-solving, relaxation, and self-esteem through a fun, interactive, and experiential format with activities including nature walks, arts and crafts, sports, and more.

March Break Camp Details:

• Date: Monday, March 16th to Friday, March 20th
  Time: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
• Location: Nichols Foundation Room, Aurora Public Library, 15145 Yonge St, Aurora 

Our camp is led by accredited social service workers using the proven PEERS® curriculum, providing a structured yet fun atmosphere where children can grow socially and emotionally. Click here for a flyer.

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Click on the image for Community Safety Village Summer Camp information.

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Hellenic Heritage Month

In 2019, the Government of Ontario proclaimed March as Hellenic Heritage Month.  

There are over 270,000 Canadians of Hellenic or Greek descent living in Canada, with more than half residing in Ontario. Since the early nineteenth century, immigrants from Greece have made significant contributions to Ontario’s culture, economy, and various fields such as education, law, medicine, science, and politics. Greece’s vast history, including its structures for democratic governance, philosophy, and scientific methodologies, have influenced many present day practices and structures in Canada. Greek Independence Day, celebrated on March 25, marks Greece’s liberation from the Ottoman Empire in 1821. By designating March as Hellenic Heritage Month, the York Region District School Board honors the identities, diverse experiences and achievements of Greek students, families and staff in our school board.

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Persian Heritage Month

In 2021 the government of Ontario proclaimed March as Persian Heritage Month to recognize the contributions of over 200,000 Ontarians of Persian descent. 

Since the 1970s to present day, the Persian community have played a significant role in shaping the province’s economic, political, social and cultural landscape. Rooted in one of the world’s oldest civilizations, Persian culture has enriched Ontario's identity for generations. In the month of March, millions of Persians from around the world celebrate Nowruz, the beginning of their new year with a special significance of the relationship between nature and human life. By designating March as Persian Heritage Month, the York Region District School Board honors the identities, diverse experiences and achievements of Persian students, families and staff in our school board.

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Bangladeshi Heritage Month

In 2016, the Government of Ontario proclaimed March as Bangladeshi Heritage Month. 

Ontario is home to over 50,000 people of Bengali heritage who have made significant contributions to the province’s scientific, cultural, athletic, and political sectors. Every year on March 26th, Bangladeshis worldwide celebrate Independence Day, commemorating their nation’s independence in 1971 with music, parades, and various gatherings. By designating March as Bangladeshi Heritage Month, the York Region District School Board honors the identities, diverse experiences and achievements of Bangladeshi students, families and staff in our school board.

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Understanding and Navigating the Education System - Families of YRDSB Black Students Monthly Virtual Information Session on Monday, March 9, from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm.

Families, parents, and caregivers, please join us for our monthly virtual meeting, where families with Black children come together to learn about resources and upcoming programs for Black students in both elementary and secondary schools. Please see our flyer for more information and the registration link.  For further information, please email the Centre for Black Student Excellence (CBSE) at blackstudentexcellence@yrdsb.ca.

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Click here for the Persian Translation.  Click here for the Russian Translation. Please email the school if you need the Gator Social translated into a different language. phoebe.gilman.ps@yrdsb.ca