ÍY SȻÁĆEL (Good Day),

I hope this message finds you well. We’ve had a wonderful start at North Saanich Middle School as we welcome new students and families while reconnecting with our returning Hawks. Our hybrid Meet the Teacher events last week were successful, and we’re thrilled that everyone had the chance to connect with our fantastic teachers.

This month, our focus has been on establishing a safe, respectful, and purposeful environment for everyone. Our new Personal Digital Device expectations have been positively received, and our grade-wide assemblies (slideshow is linked here) have clarified our school expectations and routines. This alignment has contributed to a positive atmosphere throughout the school.

Last week, we hosted a whole-school Terry Fox run, along with a weeklong lunchtime event to raise funds for cancer research. I’m proud to announce that we raised just over $625.00!! 

We are currently showcasing the Salish Weave Collection at NSMS. For more details, please click here and also check out the Salish Weave YouTube Channel. It’s been incredible to have these beautiful works of art in our building, and we look forward to hosting a different collection in the spring.

On September 27th, we will observe Orange Shirt Day, which aims to raise awareness about the history and legacies of the residential school system in Canada. We will hold a school-wide assembly, and classes will engage in lessons, activities, and discussions surrounding this important topic.  September 30th has been declared the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day for us to wear orange in recognition of the legacy of the Canadian Indian residential school system and to honour the thousands of Survivors of residential schools. Please note that NSMS will be closed on this day.

Looking ahead:

•  School picture day on October 3rd;
• Our first pizza day and a jersey spirit day on October 4th;
• The cafeteria will open on October 7th. 
• NSMS will be closed for Thanksgiving on October 14th and;
• Hawk Clothing can be ordered starting on October 21st.

HÍSWKE (Thank you) for your continued support as we embark on this school year together.

Best regards,

David Mark
Principal
North Saanich Middle School “GO HAWKS!”