Statement Regarding Ongoing Violence in the Middle East

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 11, 2023

We are deeply saddened by the deadly attacks and ongoing violence taking place in the Middle East. Our thoughts are with those impacted, and we recognize that this is a devastating time for many in the Grand Erie community.  

Grand Erie is committed to providing safe and inclusive learning and working environments for all students and staff. Individuals will be affected differently based on their lived experiences, and we know that many students and staff will need extra support in the days and weeks ahead. 

To support well-being and assist students, staff and families in learning discussions, please review the following resources.

Learning:

• Supportive Conversations with Students during Challenging World Events
• Ways to Help Students in Response to World Events
• Helping Kids Cope with Media Coverage of War and Traumatic Events
• How to Talk to Your Children About Conflict and War

Mental Health:

• https://www.granderie.ca/mentalhealth

Grand Opening of the Snoezelen Room

Elgin Avenue Public School welcomed staff, students and community to the Grand Opening of the Snoezelen Room on Tuesday, Sept. 22.

On hand for this special occasion was Chair of the Board Carol Ann Sloat, Trustee Rita Collver and Superintendent Liana Thompson as well as several members of the community that contributed to the fundraising, and Elgin staff members.

Allie Richardson (teacher of students with autism), Lori Minarik (EA working with students with autism) and Samantha Nicholson (Principal) worked together for over three and a half years to fundraise for this $30,000 project. The Elgin community, parents, local charities and the Grand Erie District School Board all came together to make this project a huge success.

A Snoezelen Room is a multi-sensory environment that provides a controlled, safe, relaxing space for individuals with a variety of sensory needs. The room is set up to give individuals a positive space where they can meet their specific needs in a calming atmosphere. This atmosphere helps in reducing fear, anxieties, repetitive behaviour, self-abusive behaviour and aggressive behaviour so that students are better able to learn. Students at Elgin in both self-contained classes and in the regular classes will be able to access the room to help meet their sensory needs.

According to Seth, a student who accesses the room daily, “It is the best room ever!!!”