Good Afternoon ACPS FAMILIES!
WELCOME TO WEEK 23 @ ACPS...
WEEKLY ATTACHMENTS
CLICK THIS LINK FOR WEEK 23 ATTACHMENTS
ADRIENNE CLARKSON SCHOOL SPIRIT WEAR IS AVAILABLE AGAIN!!!
Please click the link below to order ACPS School Spirit wear:
SAFETY REMINDERS FOR DRIVERS AT ACPS – KEEPING STUDENTS AND STAFF SAFE
This serves as a reminder to all drivers coming to ACPS, that the bus loop is closed to cars between 7:45 AM – 8:05 AM, and again between 2:35 PM – 2:50 PM. We do this to ensure that buses can arrive and depart safely, and so that our staff on duty, and students boarding and unloading from the bus can do so safely.
If you choose to drive your child to ACPS, please obey the following important drop-off and pick-up rules:
- THERE IS NO PARKING IN THE STAFF LOT DURING DROP-OFF or DURING PICK-UP. When you park in a staff spot, you often prevent our staff from getting inside to begin instructional time.
- DO NOT GET OUT OF YOUR CAR TO WALK YOUR CHILD INTO ACPS. Use the Kiss n’ Ride to pull up and have your child exit from the school (passenger side) to enter the school.
- PLEASE USE COMMON SENSE. Last week and this week, we have nearly seen 2 students, and 1 staff be struck by a car. When we are safe, caring, and courteous, everyone gets to and from ACPS safely.
PINK SHIRT DAY
Wednesday, February 25, 2026, marks PINK SHIRT DAY, a globally recognized initiative that promotes anti‑bullying and encourages upstanding behaviour. It serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up against all forms of hate and discrimination. On Wednesday February 25, we encourage all students, staff, and community members to wear PINK to promote anti-bullying.
EQAO INFORMATION
Webinar for Parents and Guardians
- EQAO Math Night for Parents and Guardians
(February 24, 2026, 6:00 PM)
Join us for a free live webinar where EQAO staff will discuss math questions that Ontario students encounter when they participate in Ontario’s large-scale assessments. These assessments are taken by all Ontario students in Grades 3, 6 and 9. During the webinar, EQAO staff will show how these math questions help assess the skills students are learning in their math classes. Staff will also share valuable insights from EQAO research into assessment results, which can help parents and guardians support their children’s math learning.
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.
We acknowledge that this year’s Persian Heritage Month may bring a range of deep feelings for many as we witness the difficult and tragic news coming out of Iran. Board and community resources are available to students and staff members who may need it, please speak to your administrator or supervisor if you need support.
PURIM - TUESDAY MARCH 3, 2026
Purim is a celebratory and joyous holiday celebrated on March 3, 2026. Purim commemorates the survival of the Jewish people from eradication in the 4th century BCE. King Ahasuerus’ advisor, Haman, plotted to rid the ancient Persian empire of its Jewish people. The Book of Esther, also known as the Megillah or Scroll of Esther, recounts the Purim miracle and the story of how Esther, who unbeknownst to her husband was Jewish, used her position as the king’s wife to save the Jewish people. Purim means “lots” in ancient Persian and was thus named because Haman had thrown lots to determine when he would carry out his evil scheme, as recorded in the Megillah.
Traditions include masquerading in costumes and masks, having parties and public celebrations, as well as sharing gift baskets known as mishloach manot. Reading the Megillah, reciting prayers, eating a festive meal, drinking wine, as well as committing to charitable acts, known as tzedakah in Hebrew, are practices associated with the holiday. During the reading of the Megillah, it is customary to make noises of disdain when Haman’s name is mentioned with noisemakers called graggers. This is done once on the eve of Purim and then again on the following day. On the day before Purim, it is customary to fast. Fasting acts as a reminder of Queen Esther’s fasting and praying to G-d1 to save the Jewish people.
On Purim, symbolic triangular-shaped cookies with filling are eaten. These cookies are often called Hamantaschen, a name derived from Yiddish. These cookies are also known as Oznei Haman in Hebrew and Orejas de Haman in Ladino, both translating to Haman’s ears. Traditional fillings include poppyseeds and prune jam. Jams of varied flavours and chocolate spread have also become common fillings.
Please note that there are different levels of observance and ways of observing within the Jewish community. It is customary to wish a Happy Purim or Chag Purim Sameach in Hebrew.
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.
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.
WINTER WEATHER
With winter weather here, we want to share a few important reminders.
Dress for the weather
Students should come dressed appropriately for the weather and for outdoor play. Students can stay warm by wearing layers of loose-fitting clothing, a hat, scarf, jackets, snow pants and mittens or gloves. Students may also want to bring extra pants and socks in case they get wet.
Recess
If students are well enough to come to school, they are expected to go outside for recess. Our students benefit from spending time outside and being active. We monitor weather conditions throughout the day. If there are extreme weather conditions, we may consider a shortened or indoor recess.
Bus or School Cancellations
When an extreme cold or inclement weather day is declared, school transportation (including buses and taxis) is cancelled in the morning and afternoon. Schools will remain open. Please notify the school if your child will not be attending school on those days. Students will not be penalized for missing school on these days.
There may be rare instances when emergency weather events occur, and we need to close all schools and Board locations. Please take the time to make plans in the event of an emergency school closure. Information about transportation cancellations and Board closures will be shared through local media, board and school websites and on X @YRDSB.
Our process for extreme cold, inclement weather and emergency weather days is outlined in the board’s Severe Weather policy.
ACPS CALENDAR
If you are looking to find school information and events, please click on this CALENDAR LINK and add to your favorites.
ON THE HORIZON
WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 25 - PINK SHIRT DAY
WEDNESDAY MARCH 4 - RAPTORS 905 GAME
MONDAY MARCH 16 - FRIDAY MARCH 20 - ACPS CLOSED FOR MARCH BREAK
Have a NICE WEEKEND😊
Merci,
Mr. Arin Otis
Principal
Adrienne Clarkson PS | 68 Queens College Drive | Richmond Hill, Ontario | L4B 1X3 | 905-709-3554
InspireLearning!
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