Wednesday, February 4, 2026 Announcements
Ojibwe Word of the Day
Niiwi Giizhgad
(nee-weh geezh-gad)
Meaning: Thursday
1. Black History Month – an annual celebration to commemorate the achievements of Black Canadians and their communities who, throughout history, have done so much to make Canada a culturally diverse, compassionate, and prosperous country.
2. Viola Desmond -born July 6, 1914 in Halifax, built a career and business as a beautician and was a mentor to young Black women in Nova Scotia through her Desmond School of Beauty Culture. In 1946, Viola Desmond challenged racial discrimination when she refused to leave the segregated Whites-only section of the Roseland Theatre in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia. Viola Desmond was arrested, jailed overnight and convicted without legal representation for an obscure tax offence as a result. Despite the efforts of the Nova Scotian Black community to assist her appeal, Viola Desmond was unable to remove the charges against her and went unpardoned in her lifetime. In 2010, Lieutenant-Governor Mayann Francis issued Desmond a free pardon. In December 2016, the Bank of Canada announced that Viola Desmond would be the first Canadian woman to be featured by herself on the face of a banknote – the $10 note released on 19 November 2018.
3. Interfaith Harmony Week – 1-7 February – a UN-designated annual observance from February 1st to 7th, promoting understanding, peace, and cooperation among people of all faiths and beliefs by encouraging dialogue and shared activities in places of worship and communities worldwide. Learn more here: https://worldinterfaithharmonyweek.com
4. There is a Royal Canadian Legion Public Speaking Contest that will be held on Sunday, February 22, 2026. If you are interested in registration for Junior/Intermediate/Senior will be at 2-2:30 pm in the Lounge. Speaking to start after registration is complete. You will need to Pre-register before February 15, 2026 by email. Fill out public speaking entry form and email to: vlcekjoyce@gmail.com.
5. Who wants to play Badminton? Friday after school from 2:30-4:00 the gym will be available for anyone who would like to play.
6. Music students who would like a shirt or sweater with either of these logos should see Mr. MacDougall for an order form. Sample sizes will be in later this week. Orders are due by Fri. Feb. 13.
7. Jazz Band will continue to meet Tuesdays at lunch and Concert Band will rehearse Wed. after school. New members are welcome. Today’s Jazz Band rehearsal will be an open rehearsal for members to learn the new music.
8. Drama Club will have our first after school rehearsal this Friday in preparation for our Variety Show.
9. Students in grade 10, we are looking for someone to go to the HOBY Youth Leadership conference April 30-May 3rd. See Mrs. Petrus for more info! Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership organization’s mission is to motivate and empower individuals to make a positive difference within our global society through understanding and action, based on effective and compassionate leadership.
10. The Chess Club will meet Thursday February 5th. All are welcome – beginners and experienced players. (Mr. Singh)
11. Art Pick up – First Semester Art Students – please grab your art from room 316. (Mrs. Smit)
12. White Cane Week: Held annually in Canada during the first full week of February, White Cane Week promotes awareness of the challenges faced by people with vision loss while celebrating their independence, mobility, and achievements. Initiated by the Canadian Council of the Blind (CCB), it highlights the white cane as a critical tool for navigating the environment. Learn more here: https://ccbnational.net/shaggy/
13. OKAY - BLUEJAYS - LET’S - PLAY- BALL!
Are you interested in attending a Bluejays Baseball game on April 1st. We are offering a trip to the Bluejays for only $80. This includes Chartered Bus and your ticket. Tickets will be sold on a first come first served basis starting today in the main Foyer at lunch. If you’d like to attend – bring your $80 to secure your spot. (Mr. Smit)