APPLEWOOD STAFF COMMITMENT:
As a staff, we commit to fostering a safe and inclusive learning environment by modelling positive expectations and goal setting, creating and encouraging meaningful connections within our school community and developing student accountability. This commitment will support all learners in developing and achieving self-regulation, leadering to increased confidence and independence throughout their learning journeys.
Parent Communication:
ALL communication from school will be sent home electronically, this year. Please ensure you register for Cash Online (no credit card is required) at SchoolCash and confirm that the office has a current email for your family. Your child's teacher will connect with you during the first week of school to let you know how to access your child's classroom website. Please check it regularly.
Ms. Kosh will be sending "Weekly Update" emails on Friday afternoons containing information for the upcoming week and general reminders. As well, you can check our website, and Applewood Public School (@ApplewoodPS) on Facebook and X for regular updates and school news!
Applewood Parent Council- all Applewood Parent Council meetings are held on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 5:00pm in the Staff Room. Please feel free to drop in and join the discussion!
Applewood is a PEANUT, TREE NUT AND SCENT FREE school, due to life threatening, anaphylactic allergies. Students may not bring products to school that contain nuts or tree nuts and we ask that they not bring or wear anything containing artificial scents. The best approach to creating a safe school environment for these children is prevention / avoidance and parents / guardians play a crucial role in this regard. While we recognize that parents are entitled to decide what goes into their child's lunches and snacks, we respectfully request your help in reducing the risk to our anaphylactic children by refraining from packing foods with nuts and tree nuts. Thank you for your cooperation!
Transportation
If you require general transportation information, please visit www.nsts.ca or call: Niagara Student Transportation Services at 905-346-0290. Applewood does not make transportation decisions or arrangements. Please contact NSTS if you have any concerns about your child's eligibity.
SafeArrival Attendance Reporting
The SafeArrival Student Attendance Reporting System is in effect. Parents / guardians must report all absences using the new SafeArrival system. You can no longer call the school to report absences. You may report your child's absence using any of the 3 convenient methods below:
- Using your mobile device, download and install the SchoolMessenger app from the Apple App Store of the Google Play Store (or from the links at https://go.schoolmessenger.ca). The first time you use the app, select Sign Up to create your account. Select Attendance then Report an Absence.
- Use the SafeArrival website, at https://go.schoolmessenger.ca. The first time you use the website, select Sign Up to create your account. Select Attendance then Report an Absence.
- Call the toll-free number 1-866-606-5567 to report an absence using the automated phone system.
- * All the above options are available 24 hours/day, 7 days of week. Future absences can be reported at any time.
KISS AND RIDE - Safe Schools
Thank you to our families who are using the Kiss and Ride. It makes pick up and drop off a lot safer. Kindergarten families are reminded to use the parking spots by the Kindergarten play area – we are leaving those available for you. At the end of the day, Gr.1 – 6 families are asked to please try to time your arrival with our 3:05 dismissal time or later as it takes the children a few minutes to get their things on and make their way around to the Kiss and Ride area.
Please click here to access the most up to date information regarding Applewood's School Ventilation and Filtration Measures.
About Applewood Public School
Applewood School has approximately 190 students from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6 and an educational team dedicated to enriching the lives of everyone in the Applewood Community.
Set in the heart of Merritton, in the city of St. Catharines, our school first opened in 1979 as a leader in energy conservation. Although the solar panels were eventually removed due to structural complications, we continue to be awarded for conscientiously reducing our energy consumption. The structure of the school had open-concept classrooms: 4 pods downstairs, a double Kindergarten classroom and 2 pods upstairs, as well as, the Learning Commons. The school was renovated in 2009 to create enclosed classrooms rather than open concept style. Built in a valley of berms, 2 creative playgrounds were financed and installed, and are maintained by our Applewood School Council, to this day.
Applewood Public School is a small but wonderful place to learn! Applewood School proudly provides a rich and varied program in Literacy, Mathematics, French, the Arts, Social Studies, Science & Technology, and Health & Physical Education. Students participate in experiences and opportunities that encourage the development of excellence, integrity, tolerance, respect, and a sense of social responsibility.
Our teachers volunteer their time to organize and supervise extra-curricular activities for Applewood students and we enjoy a strong partnership with the School Council and our community partners. As a unified team we are committed to achieving the common goal of providing an unsurpassed educational experience for all of our students. Parents also serve on committees and assist with many functions where their expertise and support are invaluable. With the support of staff and parent volunteers, Applewood is able to provide numerous learning opportunities for our students.
We look forward to welcoming your family to the Applewood Community!