Dear Parents and Guardians,
Week 18 starts, again, with a snow day and ends with the last Friday of semester 1 classes. Final evaluations
start on Wednesday afternoon. Students are getting prepped for final projects and evaluations. It is a busy time
of year for both students and staff. Everybody seems to be up to the challenge though! Can you believe were
are heading towards the end of January already? Where did this month go?
There will be another e-newsletter on Wednesday night and then a brief hiatus until Friday, February 12.
Previous e-newsletters are available on the Bear Creek website: http://bss.scdsb.on.ca/
I am always open to suggestions and comments, so please contact me at [email protected] if you have
something on your mind.
Please follow me on Twitter: @VPWilkinson
If you see a topic you want to learn more about, you go to the item and press the “Ctrl” button while you click
your cursor and you will be “magically” transported to the topic you chose. To “magically” transport back to
the table of contents, go to the “Back to the Table of Contents” words at the end of each article, and press the
“Ctrl” button while you click your cursor and you will be “magically” transported back to the table of contents.
Table of Contents
Pop Tabs ............................................................................................................................................................ 2
EQAO Math and Literacy Results .................................................................................................................. 2
Life Skills Winter Ball ...................................................................................................................................... 2
Doodle 4 SCDSB Contest.................................................................................................................................. 3
The 2016 CEMC Workshop in Computer Science for Young Women ....................................................... 3
Premier's Awards for Accepting Schools........................................................................................................ 3
OSAID Scholarships for 2015-2016 ................................................................................................................. 4
Breakfast Club - NEW ..................................................................................................................................... 4
Parents as Partners Programs ......................................................................................................................... 5
Evaluation Moratorium .................................................................................................................................... 5
End of Semester Evaluations ........................................................................................................................... 6
Message from the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit: Coping With Anxiety ...................................... 6
It’s In You to Give – Blood Donor Clinic ....................................................................................................... 6
Bus Cancellation Information in Case of Inclement Weather ...................................................................... 7
Math Help Room ............................................................................................................................................... 7
Free Math Help for Students in Grade 7 To 10 ............................................................................................. 7
Character Ed. .................................................................................................................................................... 7
Weekly E-Newsletter
Stay Connected @ BCSS Friday, January 22, 2016
The Banting Legacy Scholarship ..................................................................................................................... 8
Scholarships ....................................................................................................................................................... 8
TD Discovery Day in Health Sciences (DDHS) .............................................................................................. 8
High School Health Research Bursary Program ........................................................................................... 9
Calling All Young Entrepreneurs, Make Your Pitch - NEW ....................................................................... 9
2016 RBC Students Leading Change Scholarship Opens Call for Applications ...................................... 10
Schulich Leader Scholarships ........................................................................................................................ 11
Orillia Youth Symphony Orchestra Annual Composition Contest ........................................................... 12
Volunteer Opportunities - NEW.................................................................................................................... 12
Sports News ..................................................................................................................................................... 15
Important Dates .............................................................................................................................................. 15
Positively Speaking ......................................................................................................................................... 15
Parent Pointer Calendar for the following week ......................................................................................... 19
P.S. (Positive Statement): ............................................................................................................................... 19
What’s Happening at BCSS?
Pop Tabs
If you have lunch in our cafeteria during lunch, you most likely get visited by Konor Moodie, a student in our
Life Skills program. He collects pop tabs, sends them in somewhere and they turn into wheelchairs. Last year,
his efforts resulted in the manufacture of 2 wheelchairs. I am hoping with your help, we can increase this
number.
If you can, please collect pop tabs and have you or your teen bring them to school. They can drop them off at
the office to be given to Konor. If your teen sees me, they can give them to me as well, and I will see that Konor
gets the tabs.
We have 8 + paperboxes full of pop-tabs that we will be donating. Please continue to send the pop tabs in.
Thanks very much. Back to Table of Contents
EQAO Math and Literacy Results
If your teen wrote the grade 9 EQAO Math or the grade 10 EQAO OSSLT and they want a printout of their
results, please have them see Mr. Wilkinson in the second floor Admin offices. Back to Table of Contents
Life Skills Winter Ball
On Wednesday February 3rd, Bear Creek is hosting its first Annual Winter Ball for all Simcoe County Life
Skills, ASD, and Learning Centre students. This Ball will allow Students with Special Needs to experience the
joy, fun, and excitement of a semi-formal-like dance in an inclusive environment. They will enjoy lunch and
then dance the day away with their friends.
The Life Skills students and staff are working furiously to make decorations for the fast-approaching day. They
are currently asking for donations of white and/or blue lights and white, silver, and blue decorations to help
transform the cafeteria into a winter wonderland. If necessary, they will be returned after the event day.
If you are interested in helping or donating, please contact Justina Debney @ [email protected] .
Thanks very much. Back to Table of Contents
Doodle 4 SCDSB Contest
Get your creative on!
For this contest, students and adult learners at the Simcoe County District School Board are encouraged to
create a doodle that tells the world “What makes me unique."
Just like a Google Doodle, each doodle must incorporate the letters SCDSB.
Students can use all kinds of materials to create their doodles, from crayons, to clay, to graphic design, even
food and video games!
Get your creative on!
Contest Full details at: doodle4scdsb.blogspot.ca/
#doodle4scdsb
@SCDSB_arts Back to Table of Contents
The 2016 CEMC Workshop in Computer Science for Young Women
One of the initiatives of the Centre for Education in Mathematics and Computing is to encourage more female
students to consider computer science, in the hopes of increasing their representation in this field.
Here is a fantastic opportunity for female Grade 9 and 10 students, the 2016 CEMC Workshop in Computer
Science for Young Women. This week-long event includes introductory programming, lectures, labs and hands-
on activities that are complemented by social activities. Past participants raved about the great time they had and
how the workshop changed their perceptions about computer science and computer scientists. Those selected to
attend pay a $150 registration fee, which covers the cost of travel and accommodation in residence.
In 2016, the workshop will be held at the University of Waterloo from Saturday, May 14th to Saturday, May 21st.
We are looking for participants with an aptitude in mathematics but with little or no previous exposure to
computer science. Participants should not have attended any similar workshop.
If your female teen is in grade 9 or 10, and you think has an aptitude in mathematics but have little or no
previous exposure to computer science, this is an awesome opportunity for them. As they aim for participation
from as many different schools as possible, it is rare for two students from the same school to be selected. I
have attached a flyer that provides more information and their online application system is available at
http://www.csgirlsrock.ca. The application deadline is February 25th, 2016. Those selected to attend will be
notified around March 24. Back to Table of Contents
Premier's Awards for Accepting Schools
Nominations are now open for the 2015-16 Premier's Awards for Accepting Schools. These awards recognize
and celebrate the innovative work that Ontario's Safe and Accepting Schools Teams do in promoting a positive
school environment, and supporting student achievement and well-being.
Anyone in a school community can nominate a Safe and Accepting Schools Team using the new nomination
form, which is easier to complete this year. The deadline for nominations is February 19, 2016. For more info
and to fill out the nomination form, visit: http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/safeschools/nominate.html.
Back to Table of Contents
OSAID Scholarships for 2015-2016
OSAID (Ontario Students Against Impaired Driving) has two scholarships available to full-time Ontario
secondary school students.
The IBAO Anna Pyles Memorial Scholarship is a $1,000 scholarship offered to an Ontario based, June
graduating secondary school student who has done outstanding work in raising awareness about impaired
driving in the school and community.
For more information, please go to: http://www.osaid.org/wp-
content/uploads/2015/10/IBAO_OSAID_AnnaPylesMemorial-Scholarships_and_application_requirements.pdf
The AVIVA Start Up Scholarship is a $500 scholarship for full time Ontario secondary school students. There
are two of these scholarships on offer for students who have significantly contributed to starting up an OSAID
group in their schools.
For more information, please go to: http://www.osaid.org/leaders/scholarships-and-certificates/aviva-osaid-
start-up-scholarship/ Back to Table of Contents
Breakfast Club - NEW
This week, we broke the 8,300 student served mark. We are feeding an average of 148 students per day and
operating at a cost of 20.3 ¢/student/day. Any donation you can provide is used well and greatly appreciated.
Charitable receipts will be given.
Thanks to the teachers and EA’s who help out setting up and cleaning up the Breakfast Club in the morning.
Without them, this service would be impossible to do!
We recently received a donation from the Thornton Food Bank who had an over-abundance of baked goods.
Thus, we would like to thank them and they asked that if you are looking to donate somewhere, they would be
willing to take any donations as well.
We are very fortunate and grateful for the assistance of Tim Horton’s who are donating some of their baked
goods. While there is no cost to the student, the program depends on donations from our community to keep
going. We are asking parents and community members for donations of the following to help with our costs:
cereal bars (peanut-free), fresh fruit, bagels, jams, non-hydrogenated margarine, light cream cheese, juice boxes,
muffins, dried fruit, raisin boxes, granola/fruit bars, and cash. Anything you can assist with, would be greatly
appreciated.
I have spoken to the personnel in the cafeteria and they informed me that the cafeteria gives away free oatmeal
every morning as well. Thanks to the ladies in the café!
If you wish more information about the program or wish to donate, please contact Terry Wilkinson at (705)725-
7712, voice mail, 43664. Bear Creek's priority is to have healthy students! Back to Table of Contents
Parents as Partners Programs
The Simcoe County District School Board (SCDSB)’s Learning Centres offer parenting programs to all parents
who currently have a child in school. The winter 2016 schedule begins this month.
These free ‘Parents as Partners’ programs help parents develop understanding, knowledge, skills and specific
techniques that can be used at home to support and encourage the healthy development of their child.
Courses include:
Triple P: Parenting your 2-10 year old
Exploring positive parenting techniques and strategies and encourage good behaviour
Effective Parenting
Helping your child build self-esteem, responsibility and problem-solving skills.
PILLARS- Parenting Initiative, Lifelong Learning and Resources
Supports parents currently enrolled in an educational program and helps positively affect both the parents and
their children.
View the poster with dates and times. Courses begin in January and February at locations across Simcoe
County. Back to Table of Contents
Evaluation Moratorium
During the 4 days of evaluation moratorium, there will be no sporting events or field trips. This semester these
days are from Thursday, January 21st – Tuesday, January 26th.
Moratorium days are reserved for teaching, evaluation review and/or practical in-class evaluations with no
requirement for additional study.
Teachers are encouraged to have summative evaluations that are rich, complex and meaningful for students to
demonstrate the synthesis of their learning.
The purpose of the moratorium is to enable students to prepare for their final evaluations. Therefore,
students must NOT receive or be responsible for any assigned work that requires any form of
preparation outside of regularly scheduled classes during the moratorium.
Guidelines:
Due dates for assignments must be scheduled ahead of the moratorium.
ISU presentations are acceptable during moratorium provided that all of the work for those presentations is
submitted prior to the moratorium.
SERTs should be notified of any due date extensions for students on IEPs.
EQAO math may be an exception out of necessity. It should be noted that students preparing for EQAO at
home during the moratorium are also preparing for their math exam – an acceptable home activity during
this time.
Examples of assessment activities allowed within the moratorium:
A practical activity using school equipment (e.g. science lab) done within the class period.
An open book activity where no preparation at home is required. The activity must be completed within the
class period.
Any work that is part of the 30% summative evaluation being completed during moratorium must be
completed in class and not require work outside of class.
Back to Table of Contents
End of Semester Evaluations
This semester evaluation period runs from Wednesday, January 27th until Wednesday, February 3rd. Day 1,
period 1 exams are on Wednesday, January 27th. Day 2, period 2 exams are on Thursday, January 28th. Day 3,
period 4 exams are on Friday, January 29th. Day 4, period 5 exams are on Monday, February 1st. We are
sending this out early in order to assist you in avoiding situations where a holiday has been booked and it may
interfere with final evaluations. Weather-wise it is a very uncertain time, so there may be a chance of weather
(i.e. snow day) interfering with evaluations and evaluations are then moved a day forward. All exams start at
8:30 EXCEPT Wednesday, January 27th, which starts at 11:30. Back to Table of Content
Message from the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit: Coping With Anxiety
(As exams are right around the corner, I thought this is worth repeating.)
Feelings of anxiety can be common among teenagers. Sometimes normally happy teenagers will become
anxious or fearful about something for a day or two but will return to normal without any need for help from
their parents. However, some teenagers seem to suffer from more intense and frequent feelings of anxiety that
prevent them from participating in normal everyday life. Creating a positive family environment, encouraging
regular school attendance and helping your teenager face their fears can help.
If you would like to learn more about monitoring your teenager’s emotions and behaviours, ways to talk openly
with your teenager and encouraging your teenager to practice their coping skills, call Health Connection at 705-
721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520 and talk to a public health nurse about the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program
or visit www.triplepontario.ca. Back to Table of Contents
It’s In You to Give – Blood Donor Clinic
In 2015, Bear Creek’s Partner for Life pledge was 100 units/donations. In fact, that was surpassed by 1 unit for
a grand total of 101 units of blood donated on behalf of Bear Creek Secondary! Now that’s something to
celebrate! So awesome! Many thanks to you and the entire Bear Creek team of donors that have helped build
your pledge and save lives.
Bear Creek is a Partner for Life for Canadian Blood Services. Canadian Blood Services comes into our grade
11 Biology classes to blood type the students and raise awareness for blood donation. When a student or family
member give a blood donation, they simply have to say that they are pledging for Bear Creek and it goes
towards our pledge. Last year, we reached 101 pledges and this year we have pledged 110 units. Donors must
be 17 years of age or older. We also arrange for a Life Bus to transport students to the permanent clinic in
Barrie twice a year. Back to Table of Contents
Bus Cancellation Information in Case of Inclement Weather
Winter is just around the corner in Simcoe County, and with it comes the possibility of severe weather,
challenging winter driving conditions and, as a result, possible bus and school event cancellations.
All information regarding cancelled buses in Simcoe County is posted on the Simcoe County Student
Transportation Consortium’s bus information website at www.simcoecountyschoolbus.ca. Our school is in the
CENTRAL WEATHER ZONE. When buses are cancelled, please remember that schools are still open
(unless otherwise noted) for student learning.
The Consortium, in conjunction with bus operators, will make the decision to cancel school buses before 6 a.m.
and as such, will make every effort to post announcements between 6 and 7 a.m. Parents should also note that
inclement weather cancellations are effective for the whole day and buses cancelled in the morning will not run
at the end of the day.
You can also subscribe to receive bus delay notifications here: https://scstc.ca/Subscriptions and you can follow
the Consortium on Twitter @SCSTC_SchoolBus. Back to Table of Contents
Math Help Room
The Math Department offers extra help to students Monday - Thursday from 11:15 - 11:45 in Room 240.
Back to Table of Contents
Free Math Help for Students in Grade 7 To 10
Homework Help is a free online math help resource for students in Grades 7 to 10. Homework Help provides
FREE, live one-on-one tutoring from Ontario teachers, and is funded by the Ontario government and
administered by TVO. Students can ask their math questions during chat room hours, Sunday to Thursday, 5:30
– 9:30 p.m. You will need your teen’s OEN # - if you don’t have that, e-mail me and I will get it for you. For
more information and other math resources, visit: https://homeworkhelp.ilc.org.
Back to Table of Contents
Character Ed.
We will be appreciating both students and staff for good character. This is shown on many levels, each and
every day. That being said, staff and students will have the chance to nominate each other for a small reward.
For the next few months, we are recognizing two of the Board’s ten character traits per month. For January, our
Character Ed. traits that we will be recognizing are Respect and Cooperation. Staff and students fill out a ballot
and submit it to Mrs. Miller or Mr. Wilkinson. Back to Table of Contents
The Banting Legacy Scholarship
The Sir Frederick Banting Legacy Foundation (SFBLF) is once again providing their Banting Legacy
Scholarship. This scholarship is offered as support for a students, living with diabetes, to advance their career
aspirations through higher education.
The Banting Legacy Scholarship, funded by SFBLF, is among those awarded through a very successful program
initiated by the Diabetes Hope Foundation (DHF) in 1999 that now has over 500 graduates. They require,
however, that any recipient of our scholarship must be from our ‘region’ (albeit very loosely defined). 40
scholarships will be awarded in 2016.
Scholarship winners participate in a very inspirational weekend in residence at U of T including the awards
ceremony held at the Isobel Bader Theatre, usually in May. Apart from the funds, winners also gain the life-long
benefit of becoming part of an ever growing and influential peer group of former winners… many of whom are
committed to serving as mentors for their younger colleagues.
The deadline for applications is March 7, 2016.
Applications can only be submitted online. The essential ‘get started’ link for any applicant
is http://diabeteshopefoundation.com/content/how-apply
Supporting documentation required of an applicant is not onerous but is not the type of material easily
assembled at the last minute.
Their inaugural winner for 2015 was Erica Geen from Patrick Fogarty Catholic Secondary School in Orillia.
Back to Table of Contents
Scholarships
On top of preparing for exams, and finishing up coursework, it is time for graduating students to be looking at
scholarships. Mr. Wilkinson has recently signed up for a scholarship website. Please visit me or Guidance to
apply for scholarships.
To put it into perspective, I had looked at 37 scholarships just as a test of the system, and it resulted in over
$330,000 of monies for your post-secondary adventure. This is open to university and college applications.
Back to Table of Contents
TD Discovery Day in Health Sciences (DDHS)
Event Date: May 26, 2016
Email: [email protected]
An insightful and fun hands-on workshop for students in grades 10 through 12, interested in a career in health
science and technology. This full day event held at McMaster University Student Learning Centre, in Hamilton,
is an exciting opportunity for students, from across the province, to explore careers in medicine and health
sciences. Students will benefit from an inspiring keynote lecture, two hands-on-workshops of their choosing,
and an interactive laboratory experiment demonstration. Each school is invited to register up to 5 students who
have a strong interest in a career in health sciences. This first step is to register your school online
at http://cdnmedhall.org/hamilton-health-sciences-corporation, which is now open. Once our system has advised
us of your registration, we will email further instructions to you for your students to register online and select
their workshop assignments. Workshop spaces are limited. Access to workshop space is determined on a first
come-first serve basis and individual students registration will open April 5, 2016 to April 28, 2016 @ 4pm. For
complete details, please visit: http://cdnmedhall.org/hamilton-health-sciences-corporation
Back to Table of Contents
High School Health Research Bursary Program
Competition Closes: April 15, 2016. 4:00p.m.
Email: [email protected]
An invaluable opportunity for top high school science students in grades 11 and 12 to apply for a seven-week
summer internship placement program working alongside Hamilton world-class researchers and team members
July 4 – August 19, 2016. This program provides students with an excellent opportunity to explore career
options, expand their potential horizons and exposure to leading scientific minds in healthcare research, as well
as receive a $1,500 bursary upon completion. Students are required to submit an application, letter of
nomination from a science department head or science teacher, a 1000-word essay on their academic and
extracurricular accomplishments, as well as career aspirations. Posted on the HSHRB program web page are the
submission guidelines, application form and bursary publications. For complete details, please visit website:
http://www.hhsresearchadmin.ca/partnership-collaboration/youth-programs/high-school-bursary/
Your support and involvement will allow both the Discovery Day and HSHRBA youth outreach programs to
flourish, and will give your students an opportunity that is normally reserved for university and postgraduate
students. Once again, we invite and encourage you to share this timely notice with your respective science
department heads, science teachers’ guidance office, and students in grades 10-12. You may pass on to other
science department heads and science teachers who are interested. Word of mouth is an exceptional form of
communicating this event.
Should you have any questions please contact [email protected] or Ext. 74604 or [email protected] Ext.
43828. Back to Table of Contents
Calling All Young Entrepreneurs, Make Your Pitch - NEW
Presented by Ontario Centres of Excellence (OCE) and the Ministry of Economic Development, Employment
and Infrastructure, the Young Entrepreneurs, Make Your Pitch competition invites high school students in
Ontario to pitch their business ideas in a two-minute video. Videos are judged through online public voting
(40%) and expert judges’ scores (60%).
Twenty finalists are chosen who are awarded a trip to Toronto to pitch their ideas live at OCE’s Discovery
conference and showcase, May 9-10, 2016, in front of a panel of judges from the entrepreneur community.
Based on the live pitches, the judges select six winners who are presented with reserved entry into the Summer
Company, a Nymi Band from Nymi and a Muse brain-sensing headband by InteraXon.
Check out the highlights and awards ceremony video from the finalist event at Discovery 2015.
Read a blog from Albert Lai, serial entrepreneur and Young Entrepreneurs, Make Your Pitch Discovery judge,
to learn about his experiences and some advice for young entrepreneurs.
The Young Entrepreneurs, Make Your Pitch competition was an incredible experience that allowed me to
explore the lessons I was learning in school in a real-world situation,” said Patrick Chong, one of last year’s
winners. “Not only did the competition instill in me the confidence to take my business idea to the next level, it
also provided me with the knowledge and connections needed to turn it into a reality.”
For more information, visit www.makeyourpitch.ca.
This is due by March 23rd. I went on the above site and only one entry had been submitted. Make Your Pitch –
chances are very good that your idea will be seen. Back to Table of Contents
2016 RBC Students Leading Change Scholarship Opens Call for Applications
Students continue to place a priority on social good and inspiring change in their communities and around the
world. To help bring students closer to these goals, RBC is pleased to announce the opening of its application
process for the RBC Students Leading Change Scholarship.
Now in its 10th year, the program provides $150,000 in scholarships to 15 of Canada's most civic-minded
students in three categories: Graduating High School or CEGEP, First Undergraduate Degree or Diploma, and
Second Degree or Diploma. In addition to the monetary scholarships, six scholarships are paired with a ME to
WE Trip to be taken in the Summer 2017. The trips create life-changing experiences for youth, families, groups
and individuals in partnership with ME to WE.
Applications are now open and available online. Students are encouraged to submit their applications before the
February 23, 2016 deadline.
"It's no longer just about academic pursuits for today's students. They're socially conscious and want to affect
positive change both at home and in the world around them," said Mandy Mail, director of Student Banking.
"We want to enable students by providing funding for their tuition and an opportunity for a unique hands-on
experience that will help them develop the skills they need to lead that change."
Alexa Scarcello, a 2014 RBC scholarship recipient, travelled to Kenya in May 2015 to participate in her ME to
WE trip. Describing her experience as "transformative" and "eye-opening", the Queen's University student said
her time in Kenya provided her with an opportunity to re-evaluate her priorities.
"From their sense of community to their hospitality, the cultural mindset of the Kenyan people was infectious.
This experience truly resulted in a significant shift in my perspective and fueled a passion in me to continue to
give back and be a leader of change, both in my local community and abroad," she said.
"Young people are driven to learn about and contribute to the world around them, and are passionate about
making a positive difference," said Craig Kielburger, co-founder, ME to WE & Free The Children.
"Thanks to the RBC Students Leading Change Scholarship, we are able to help young people realize their
dreams of making a difference in their communities and around the world through tangible, on-the-ground
experiences in our Free The Children developing communities, and by supporting them in their education.
Together, we can help outstanding students reach their goals of changing the world."
Scholarship recipients are selected for their excellence in academics, with a strong emphasis on civic and
volunteer engagement. Please see terms and conditions for full details.
Being a recent recipient of the Students Leading Change scholarship, Alexa offers students three pieces of
advice when filling out the scholarship application:
Do your research.
Be unique and highlight what makes you stand out.
Take your time filling out applications for scholarships.
Write multiple drafts.
Apply for the RBC Students Leading Change Scholarship online at rbc.com/scholarships. The deadline to apply
is 3 p.m. EST on February 23, 2016. Back to Table of Contents
Schulich Leader Scholarships
Creating the next generation of technology innovators - who is your Schulich Leader nominee?
Nominate a student to win an $80,000 STEM scholarship!
What Are Schulich Leader Scholarships?
Schulich Leader Scholarships are prestigious entrance scholarships awarded to high school graduates enrolling
in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) programs at our Canadian partner universities.
Recognizing the increasing importance and impact that STEM disciplines will have on the prosperity of future
generations, businessman and philanthropist Seymour Schulich established this $100 million scholarship fund in
2012 to encourage our best and brightest students to be the next pioneers of global scientific research and
innovation.
50 scholarships are awarded each year
25 @ $80,000 for engineering
25 @ $60,000 for science, technology or mathematics
What is a Schulich Leader nominee?
A Schulich Leader Nominee represents the top STEM student in your graduating class and in turn becomes
eligible to win an $80,000 or $60,000 scholarship. This student exemplifies at least two of the following
criteria: academic excellence, leadership and financial need.
Benefits of being a Schulich Leader nominee:
• Chance to win an $80,000 or $60,000 scholarship
• Recognition on a National stage and within their school
• Increased access to summer jobs/internships
What is a Schulich Leader?
A Schulich Leader is a student who has been selected by one of our 20 partner universities to receive $80,000 or
$60,000 to pursue an undergraduate degree in STEM. In addition to this large financial award, they join an elite
network and receive many ongoing benefits.
Only Schulich Leader Nominees are eligible to become Schulich Leaders
Click Here to find the link to our 2016 information package on how to submit a Schulich Leader Nominee.
To access the application form and submit your 2016 Schulich Leader Nominee, please Click Here
If you have any questions please contact Dara Newton at [email protected]
Back to Table of Contents
Orillia Youth Symphony Orchestra Annual Composition Contest
Students Who Have a Passion for Composing!
Orillia Youth Symphony Orchestra Annual Composition Contest
Students are invited to submit compositions of approximately three minutes in length, for the following:
String Ensemble Violin 1 Violin 2
Viola Cello Bass
Prizes
1st Place - $125.00 and performance in the Spring Concert on May 29 at 6:30 pm
2nd Place - $75.00
3rd Place - $50.00
Guidelines: Pieces should be three to five minutes in length, a three in level of difficulty from one to seven.
Winning piece will be performed at the OYSO Spring concert on May 29, and all prizes will be given out at that
time. Scores and parts of the winning piece will need to be provided to the orchestra if chosen.
Submit Scores to:
Oliver Balaburski
St. Paul’s Centre,
62 Peter St. North,
Orillia ON L3V4Z1
Contest Closes January 30, 2016
Contact [email protected] for more information Back to Table of Contents
Volunteer Opportunities - NEW
VOLUNTEER!
GET INVOLVED!
BE A PART OF YOUR COMMUNITY!
Do you want to volunteer or get a summer job? Not sure where to start? Check out Bear Creek’s volunteer and
student job opportunity board located outside of the Guidance office. It is updated weekly with fantastic
opportunities! Still not sure what to do? Make an appointment with your Guidance Counsellor for some further
suggestions.
Remember, EVERY student must complete a minimum 40 hours
of volunteer work to graduate.
Please submit your “Completion of Community Involvement Activities” sheet (this sheet can be found either
on-line or at the Guidance office; I also have attached it) to the Guidance office as soon as it is signed by both
you and a parent.
1. Do you need community service hours? Do you enjoy watching sports? Do you want to get involved in
the sporting community at Bear Creek? Then the Home Game Crew might be for you! The home game
crew is a group of people who help to set up for and score keep all the various sports that happen at Bear Creek.
If you are interested, please see Mr. Wilkey in Student Success room 110.
2. a) Why you should volunteer at Goodwill:
Goodwill offers flexible, 7 days/week scheduling for the following positions:
• Build new skills to improve your resume
• Enhance your communication and customer-service skills
• Obtain results-oriented experience
• Complete your 40 hours of community service
Apply online at www.goodwill.on.ca or email [email protected]
Volunteers must be a minimum of 14 years of age. Accumulation of community involvement hours may begin
the summer after completing Grade 8.
b) Customer Service Support at Goodwill needed. Volunteers 14 and older will assist customers while
they’re shopping & are responsible for maintaining a clean, tidy and safe work environment. Gain retail
customer service experience while enhancing the shopping experience for Goodwill customers. Orientation and
training provided. No police check required for Volunteers under 18.
CONTACT: Jenny Chang PHONE: 705-331-6168 EMAIL: [email protected]
3. The Bob Rumball Long Term Care Centre for the Deaf is looking for compassionate volunteers, 16 and
older, who have good communication skills. Orientation provided and police check is required.
Duties include:
* assist with arts & crafts, meal times, special events & programs, serving and clearing in Café.
* physical maintenance of the residence & landscape.
4. Want to make an outstanding difference to the life of a senior? Be a Friendly Visitor to a Senior at
Roberta’s Place. Volunteers 12 & older are needed to:
• Visit residents in Roberta Place’s long term care residence
• Assist by playing games, providing hand & hair care, baking, doing some arts & crafts, puzzles & reading
• Help with taking residents for walks outdoors, Zumba/exercises
Develop customer service skills. Must complete intensive orientation; undergo a Police/Criminal Reference
check for Vulnerable Sector Population, supply 2 personal references. 2-step tuberculosis skin test will be done
at Roberta place at no charge.
CONTACT: Sheila MacDonald PHONE: 705-733-3231, ext. 501 Email: [email protected]
5. Volunteers are the backbone of Canadian Association for Disabled Skiing (CADS), and we entirely
dependent on volunteers to run our program.
Our on hill volunteers are well trained and certified, and those who help out off hill are equally important in
getting our skiers ready to go on hill. We need folks to help with participant assistance, administration,
fundraising, and special events.
Our volunteers generally return year after year, as it is so much fun, and incredibly rewarding.
HOW CAN YOU GET INVOLVED……..
Simply choose the program that you would like to get involved with, and contact the program director.
For further information, please contact [email protected]
6. Virtual volunteer opportunity – Barrie Youth Survey
Influence the way the City of Barrie addresses the needs of youth! They are interested in understanding
more about you & your experiences in Barrie. Your answers will help make Barrie one of the most youth-
friendly communities in Ontario.
Upon completion of this survey, you can sign up to receive a ½ hour credit towards your volunteer hours!
Access survey through communityreach.ca or City of Barrie website.
7. Downhill Skiing Assistant
Awesome opportunity that we just can’t wait till the new year to tell you about! Volunteers ski for free
after your shift until closing!
Volunteers MUST:
• Have your own skis
• Be comfortable enough on skis to help instructors get kids on & off rope tow, & accompanying skiers up the
chair lift.
• be willing to commit to ALL 8 WEEKS of the program & have access to own transportation.
• be willing to undergo a “Vulnerable persons” screening. (don’t worry – it doesn’t hurt!!!)
• Accept orientation & training as required.
Volunteers 14 & older work with kids 6–14 on the autism spectrum at Snow Valley for an 8 week program.
WHEN: Wednesdays January 6th to February 24th, (8 week program)
SHIFTS: 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. or 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
LOCATION: Snow Valley - 2632 Vespra Valley Rd, Minesing
So that’s 8 - 16 hours of community service, free skiing, and you’ve helped make some kids wildly happy!
CONTACT: Erin Nightingale PH: 705-252-7429 ext 100 EMAIL: [email protected]
8. “COLDEST NIGHT OF THE YEAR” – VOLUNTEERS
Volunteers needed for a variety of positions. The Barrie Walk is February 20th in support of Youth
Haven. Positions include: food team, set-up/take down, registration desk volunteers, welcome desk volunteers,
route/rest stop hosts & parking attendants. Refreshments & a meal provided at the end of the walk. No police
check required & no minimum age. See more info online.
SIGN UP ONLINE www.coldestnightoftheyear.org
9. BARRIE WINTERFEST 2015 February 6th and 7th
Volunteers 16 & older are needed to assist staff with performers, maintain grounds & possibly
administer surveys. Daytime & Saturday evening shifts available. Apply today!!
CONTACT: Amanda Dyke PHONE: 705-739-4220 EMAIL: [email protected]
10. YOUTH VOLUNTEER TASK FORCE
Youth (ages 14-19) from Barrie can join as the primary contact for your school, responsible for working
with Community Reach to brainstorm, promote, & evaluate the ChangeTheWorld Youth Volunteer
Challenge. Campaign runs April 10th to May 23rd 2016; planning starts now! Get to know not-for-profits in
your area, & add valuable experience to your resume. Commitment is 5 hours/month for 5 months.
IMPACT… Have a direct impact on the quality of life for many people in your community by engaging your
peers in volunteer events for the benefit of not for profit agencies.
Back to Table of Contents
Sports News
The scores and schedules across the County are on https://www.hometeamsonline.com; type “scaa ‘your sport’”
in for league (i.e. scaa football).
No sports due to the moratorium. Back to Table of Contents
Important Dates
Thursday, January 21 - Wednesday, January 27 moratorium
Wednesday, January 27 – Wednesday, February 3 Sem. 1 final evaluations
Thursday, February 4 – Friday, February 5 P. D. Days
Monday February 8 semester 2 starts
Sunday, February 14 Valentine’s Day
Monday, February 15 Family Day Holiday
Back to Table of Contents
Positively Speaking
I thought this might be good information to pass on to your teen, as final evaluations start on Wednesday, the
27th.
Exams
Developing a Positive Attitude
Like sport, exams require knowledge, skills, practice and a positive attitude. Having the right attitude towards
your study is very important; your goal is to perform at your peak on exam day.
Being well prepared boosts confidence. Preparing well means starting early in the semester, having clear goals
and organising your time. All this will help you to develop a positive attitude and to perform at your best.
Part of having the right attitude also means coming to terms with the fear of not doing so well. Negative self-
talk, such as, 'My life will be ruined if I fail' will not help you. Instead, try to imagine that you are in the exam
situation and feeling confident and terrific. Success!
Formulating Clear Goals
To clarify your long-term goals ask yourself why you are doing this course and what you want to achieve. This
then leads to more medium and short-term goals. For example, if you decide that you are doing a management
course because you want to set up your own business (a long-term goal), your medium term goal might be
successful completion of a particular unit or assessment task. Your short-term goal might be to summarise a
topic in preparation for an exam.
Making a Study Timetable
Being organised and managing your time is crucial, and having a timetable is particularly important as exams
approach. Although revision should start early in the semester, it is never too late to start.
Use a semester planner to map out what tasks have to be completed. You need to be sure of the important dates
when assignments are due and when your exams will be held. You could also include major personal events in
your life that will impact on your studies, such as weddings, holidays and so on.
Next, consider what your commitments might be in an average week. Your weekly planner should include work,
sleep and family commitments. Don't forget to allow for hobbies and recreational activities. Over the semester,
you should allow an average of ten hours a week for each subject you are studying.
You need to consider what tasks are most appropriate for each of the times you have available. For example,
reading a difficult text might best be done when you are mentally alert. Leave simpler tasks to study periods
when you work less effectively. For each study session, ask yourself what you want to achieve.
Getting the Best Out Of Your Revision
There are principles of effective learning that apply to revision. You need to commit information from your
short-term memory to your long-term memory. In order to do this you must revisit your material many times.
You also need to be actively engaged with your material in committing it to memory - just reading or
highlighting material is too passive for effective recall.
We remember best the things that are meaningful for us. So, always place what you are studying within the
overall context of the subject. Become familiar with the unit outline early in the semester. Try to develop an
overview of the subject from your study guide and identify the patterns and structures in the subject.
If you regularly review throughout the semester, by exam time much of the memory work will have been done.
Clearly, getting information into your long-term memory will take time, so start early. Leaving all of your
revision to the end of the semester means that you will have to cram for the exam. Information will only go only
into short-term memory and will be forgotten.
Psychologists have studied how people remember (and forget!) things; some of their findings can be of use to
us. Research has shown that we can recall only about 20% of new information within 24 hours of learning it but
this goes up to 60-80% if we review the information within 24 hours.
Ask for copies of old exam papers, if available for your unit, from your teacher. This will give you an idea of the
types of questions usually asked. Practise answering exam questions under realistic time constraints so you
become familiar with how you will have to perform on the day.
On The Day of The Exam
Have a good breakfast; exams do not have coffee breaks. Wear comfortable clothes. The weather is changeable
and the exam room may not be heated or cooled. Check that you have several pens and everything else you are
allowed to bring with you into the exam.
Re-read your summaries, but don't try to cram new information. Leave home in plenty of time so that you will
arrive early and avoid last minute panic.
Expect to feel a little nervous; nobody is immune from exam anxiety. Some adrenalin can be useful if it can be
channelled into a drive to get you through an event.
Reading Time
Use your reading time profitably. Get an overview of the structure of the paper. Read all instructions very
carefully. Be clear on what sections, and questions are compulsory. Read all of the questions carefully and select
the questions you will answer.
Plan the amount of time you will spend on each question. The time should be proportional to the allocated
marks. For example, if a question is worth 30% of the marks, you should allocate 30% of your time.
Decide on the order in which you will answer questions, making sure that you do not leave compulsory
questions until the end. Answer easier questions first as these will boost your confidence and may even allow
you to pick up some extra time that you can spend on more difficult questions.
Essay Exams
Lecturers comment that when students do not do well in essay exams it is because they do not answer the
question, and their answers are not well structured.
When answering essay questions you are usually expected to provide more than just the facts. You may also
have to give an opinion, develop an idea, or discuss a position. You need to explain your ideas clearly and
produce specific examples.
Before writing, make a quick plan, as you would for an assignment essay.
It is important to:
answer the question precisely and concisely
present your arguments and ideas clearly - your assessor is not a mind reader.
Multiple-Choice Exams
In multiple-choice exams the chance of getting an answer correct by guessing is not very high. Your best
strategy is to know your material well.
Read all the alternatives, even if you think the first one is correct.
Eliminate answers you know are wrong.
Sometimes it is preferable to think about what the correct answer might be before looking at the
alternatives.
Eliminate answers that contradict common sense or are illogical.
Answers you cannot understand are likely to be incorrect.
Be wary of options that include absolutes such as 'always', 'never', 'all', 'none' - they will often make a
statement false.
Be especially careful of negatives, i.e. questions which include phrases like, 'Which of these is not...?',
'All of these except ...’
Watch your time very carefully. Do not spend too much time on one question. Move on.
Open-Book Exams
Open book exams can be a trap because they can lull you into a false sense of security. You need to be
thoroughly prepared. You do not have time to read your textbook in the exam nor to find new information.
Texts can be a handicap unless you know your way around them very well. Be very familiar with the texts and
know where to find sections that you will need to refer to. Coloured post-it stickers are very useful for this
purpose.
After The Exam
After the exam, take some time to reflect. It is important to build on your strengths and learn from mistakes.
Were you able to keep to your exam timetable?
As you revised, were you an active learner?
Were you surprised by the type of exam questions on the paper?
Did you manage your time in the exam efficiently?
Did you answer the questions asked?
Source: “Exams”, http://www.deakin.edu.au/current-students/study-support/study-skills/handouts/exams.php
Back to Table of Contents
Parent’s Corner
Help Your Teen Focus during Study Time
It can be hard for many teens to keep their focus during study time. If your teen tends to get distracted,
encourage them to:
Set small goals at the beginning of each study session. They should write these down, including what
they would like to finish and by when.
Stand up and face away from their desk as soon as their mind begins to wander. Staring at their book
trying to focus will only frustrate them more. The simple act of standing up and taking a short mental
break will actually help your teen regain their concentration.
Keep a reminder pad on their desk. If they suddenly remember that they need to bring their math book to
school the next day, they should jot it down instead of interrupting their study time to go get it. Making a
quick note will help them stay focused on the task at hand.
Source: “Control of the Study Environment”, Virginia Tech Division of Student Affairs, www.ucc.vt.edu/stdysk/control.html.
Back to Table of Contents
Parent Pointer Calendar for the following week
(Jan. 25 – Jan. 29)
Monday 25th Tuesday 26th Wednesday 27th Thursday 28th Friday 29th
Can your teen sew
on a button? It’s a
basic life skill that
everyone should
learn.
Teenage boys are
one of the main
markets for
smokeless tobacco.
Know the dangers
and share them with
your teen.
EVALUATION
DAY 1 - PERIOD 1
(starts at 11:30)
EVALUATION
DAY 2 – PERIOD 2
(starts at 8:30)
EVALUATION
DAY 3 - PERIOD 4
(starts at 8:30)
Back to Table of Contents
Stay warm!
Wish your teen best of luck on their evaluations!
Be well!
Terry Wilkinson
Vice-Principal
Bear Creek Secondary School
P.S. (Positive Statement):
If you want your children to turn out well, spend twice as much time with them, and half as much money.
- Abigail Van Buren (Dear Abby - a.k.a. Pauline Phillips) Back to Table of Contents
P.P.S.: If you like what you have read so far, please tell another parent/guardian, get them to e-mail me,
and I’ll add them to the e-mail list.
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