Chalmers Elementary

RCMP Heritage Centre

The RCMP Heritage Centre is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and its significant role in Canadian history. It offers a variety of virtual education programs, designed and delivered by dedicated teaching professionals. The programs focus on education, entertainment, reflection, and dialogue, and are aligned with provincial curriculum. The virtual offerings provide schools across Canada with the opportunity to participate in interactive and informative sessions for a fee of $25 per program, per class. Please see the attached guide for more information.

FamilySmart Empowering Parents

Title: Raising Children with ADHD: Finding Calm in Emotional Unpredictability

Description: While strategies for managing challenging behaviour, whatever our child’s neurotype, can be helpful, they’re difficult to use when you’re burnt out, overwhelmed, or caught up in your child’s emotional state. Even though you can’t control it, you’re not powerless. In this session, we’ll explore how shifting your own responses during difficult moments can ease tension and help you feel calmer and more confident as a caregiver.

Speaker: Rebecca Van Der Hijde, a Family Therapist and a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst

Date: Tuesday, November 18th, 2025

Time: 6:30pm – 8:00pm

Location: Executive Plaza & Suites 405 North Road, Coquitlam – Aspen Room

Parking: Free. Please make sure to register your vehicle number at the reception desk. *This step is essential to avoid any parking-related issues. Registration: FamilySmart event

We would love to have you join us at our upcoming virtual “In the Know” events. All of the information to register is found in the attached posters, or you can click on the links below. As always, our events are free to attend. Our events are offered multiple times a month, so you can choose the best date and time that works for you.

Virtual Event: Now What? A beginning conversation to support families when our kids begin experimenting with substances

Description: Learning that our kids are using substances can be scary. Our fears about substance use can affect how we react. Learn with us while Victoria Keddis hosts a conversation with Douglas Hardie, Registered Clinical Counsellor and Program Coordinator of Island Health’s Child, Youth and Family Mental Health and

Substance Use Programs. This is a beginning conversation to help parents self-reflect on how they show up to talk to their kids about their substance use.

Registration: FamilySmart event

Dates:

November 26th, Wednesday 6:30pm to 8:00pm

Virtual Event: Substance Use and the Power of Support

Description: Connection and relationship can make a difference in substance use and addiction. Guy Felicella, a renowned advocate and international speaker who has overcome a two-decade substance use disorder, passionately promotes harm reduction, trauma therapy, and faster access to treatment using his story of resilience and recovery. Learn how we can show care not just for our kids, but for the broader community impacted by substance use disorder.

Registration: FamilySmart Events

Dates:

November 18th, Tuesday 6:30pm to 8:00pm

We are available to chat one on one if you know anyone looking for support or who needs help navigating services in our community. Click here FamilySmart referrals, once you have the parent’s or caregiver’s consent or a family can self-refer by emailing us. Feel free to contact us at SurreyDeltaWhiteRock@familysmart.ca or leave a message at 604-607-9587 if you have any questions.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Dear Stinger Families,

Remembrance Day

On Remembrance Day we honour those who have sacrificed their lives so that we can live as we do today in Canada. By remembering, we pay tribute to all the people that have served to defend our values and freedoms. We also honour those who continue to serve our country today. On Monday, November 10^th Chalmers will be holding a Remembrance Day Assembly in the gym. Some classes have signed up to present poems, songs, and more to help us all better understand and appreciate Remembrance Day and its significance. We will also have a wreath laying ceremony complete with two minutes of silence. On Tuesday, November 11th the school is closed for Remembrance Day.

Upcoming Dates:

Monday, November 3–Purdy’s Fundraiser Begins and continues until Nov 17th

Place your orders online now until November 17th at Chalmers Purdy’s using Campaign number: 647932. Orders will be ready for pickup on November 28th, just in time for the holidays.

Friday, November 14: Subway hot lunch

PAC Meeting Thursday, November 20th at 7PM

Chalmers PAC is now on Instagram! Follow us @chalmers_pac (Chalmers PAC) to stay updated on PAC events:

School Calendar:

Upcoming Dates:

Tuesday, November 11–Remembrance Day –No School

Monday, November 24–Professional Day- No School

District Info:

Upcoming Important Dates:

For Schools in North Delta: NDBA Fall 2025 Basketball Development Program

North Delta Basketball Association is offering various programs starting in September, including Fridays at Gray Elementary (Development Skills Training) and Saturdays at Sungod Recreation Centre (Development Games Program). For more information and to register, please visit: https://www.deltabasketball.com

RCMP Heritage Centre

FamilySmart Empowering Parents

Title: Raising Children with ADHD: Finding Calm in Emotional Unpredictability

Speaker: Rebecca Van Der Hijde, a Family Therapist and a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst

Date: Tuesday, November 18th, 2025

Time: 6:30pm – 8:00pm

Location: Executive Plaza & Suites 405 North Road, Coquitlam – Aspen Room

Parking: Free. Please make sure to register your vehicle number at the reception desk. *This step is essential to avoid any parking-related issues. Registration: FamilySmart event

Virtual Event: Now What? A beginning conversation to support families when our kids begin experimenting with substances

Substance Use Programs. This is a beginning conversation to help parents self-reflect on how they show up to talk to their kids about their substance use.

Registration: FamilySmart event

Dates: November 4th, Tuesday 6:30pm to 8:00pm

November 13th, Thursday 6:30pm to 8:00pm

November 26th, Wednesday 6:30pm to 8:00pm

Virtual Event: Substance Use and the Power of Support

Registration: FamilySmart Events

Dates: November 6th, Thursday 12:00pm to 1:30pm

November 18th, Tuesday 6:30pm to 8:00pm

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Nov 3-7, 2025

School Photo Order Information:

Hello Families!

Exciting news! Your online gallery from your school Catch Up photo session is now live!

Please visit this link to access the gallery: https://vando.imagequix.com/K9L3W9Z
The login code to access your images is on the yellow QR flyer your child was given on photo day. Please check with them.
Any active email address can be used to login.
Your order deadline is: November 6 2025
All orders will be shipped to the school. If you miss the deadline, your order will be shipped directly to your home with a shipping fee applied.

Missing your login code? No problem!

Visit https://weborders.mountainwest.ca
Click on “Looking for your login code?
Enter the information required.
Your code will be emailed within 1 business day.

Click Here to find out more about ordering.

Phone: 1.888.644.4494

Email: help@mountainwest.ca

Remembrance Day

On Remembrance Day we honour those who have sacrificed their lives so that we can live as we do today in Canada. By remembering, we pay tribute to all the people that have served to defend our values and freedoms. We also honour those who continue to serve our country today. On Monday, November 10^th Chalmers will be holding a Remembrance Day Assembly in the gym. Some classes have signed up to present poems, songs, and more to help us all better understand and appreciate Remembrance Day and its significance. We will also have a wreath laying ceremony complete with two minutes of silence. On Tuesday, November 11th the school is closed for Remembrance Day.

Upcoming Dates:

Monday, November 3–Purdy’s Fundraiser Begins!

Friday, November 7 – order deadline for Subway hot lunch. (Orders can be placed at https://munchalunch.com/schools/chalmers/)

Friday, November 14: Subway hot lunch

PAC Meeting Thursday, November 20th at 7PM

Chalmers PAC is now on Instagram! Follow us @chalmers_pac (Chalmers PAC) to stay updated on PAC events:

School Calendar:

Upcoming Dates:

Monday, November 3— Pyjama Spirit Day- wear your favorite PJ’s!

Tuesday, November 11–Remembrance Day –No School

District Info:

Upcoming Important Dates:

For Schools in North Delta: NDBA Fall 2025 Basketball Development Program

RCMP Heritage Centre

FamilySmart Empowering Parents

Title: Raising Children with ADHD: Finding Calm in Emotional Unpredictability

Speaker: Rebecca Van Der Hijde, a Family Therapist and a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst

Date: Tuesday, November 18th, 2025

Time: 6:30pm – 8:00pm

Location: Executive Plaza & Suites 405 North Road, Coquitlam – Aspen Room

Parking: Free. Please make sure to register your vehicle number at the reception desk. *This step is essential to avoid any parking-related issues. Registration: FamilySmart event

Virtual Event: Now What? A beginning conversation to support families when our kids begin experimenting with substances

Substance Use Programs. This is a beginning conversation to help parents self-reflect on how they show up to talk to their kids about their substance use.

Registration: FamilySmart event

Dates: November 4th, Tuesday 6:30pm to 8:00pm

November 13th, Thursday 6:30pm to 8:00pm

November 26th, Wednesday 6:30pm to 8:00pm

Virtual Event: Substance Use and the Power of Support

Registration: FamilySmart Events

Dates: November 6th, Thursday 12:00pm to 1:30pm

November 18th, Tuesday 6:30pm to 8:00pm

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Oct 27-31, 2025

School Photo Order Information:

Hello Families!

Exciting news! Your online gallery from your school Catch Up photo session is now live!

Please visit this link to access the gallery: https://vando.imagequix.com/K9L3W9Z
The login code to access your images is on the yellow QR flyer your child was given on photo day. Please check with them.
Any active email address can be used to login.
Your order deadline is: November 6 2025
All orders will be shipped to the school. If you miss the deadline, your order will be shipped directly to your home with a shipping fee applied.

Missing your login code? No problem!

Visit https://weborders.mountainwest.ca
Click on “Looking for your login code?
Enter the information required.
Your code will be emailed within 1 business day.

Click Here to find out more about ordering.

Phone: 1.888.644.4494

Email: help@mountainwest.ca

Halloween at Chalmers

Halloween is just around the corner! In order to help you get in the Halloween spirit, we have a few fun activities planned. On Monday October 27^th we will be holding a Halloween Spirit Day and all students are invited to wear orange and black.

On Friday, October 31, all students that want to, are welcome to come to school dressed in their Halloween costume. We have a Halloween Parade throughout the school for the students to show their costumes. Parents are welcome to be in the gym- this will be first thing in the morning around 9 am.

As Halloween approaches, we want to remind you of the importance of choosing costumes that are fun and respectful. Costumes that use traditional clothing, cultural symbols, or stereotypes can hurt people, even if unintentionally, and show disrespect to members of our community. Choosing costumes that don’t use or make fun of someone else’s culture demonstrates kindness, respect, and care for everyone in our school. This expectation aligns with our code of conduct, and students whose costumes are harmful to others will, at the very least, be asked to change or remove them. We look forward to a creative, fun, and thoughtful Halloween.

Here are a few guidelines for Halloween costumes at school:

should not be too scary
should be age appropriate
should not promote illegal activities, drugs/alcohol, or could be offensive or perpetuate a stereotype of someone’s culture, gender, heritage, or religion are not ok for school
must be safe & comfortable. Students must be able to sit, walk, breathe, see and hear. Anything that limits vision or restricts movement can lead to falling & other injuries. That’s no fun on Halloween! (students may wear masks during the parade, though)
must be in line with our dress guidelines (students are sufficiently covered and dressed for the weather)

toy weapons should be kept at home
not all students like to dress up (and that’s ok, too!)
since costumes worn to school may not survive the day intact, consider a spare/alternate costume and save the “real” one for trick or treating that night

Halloween Safety

We encourage all students to celebrate Halloween safely on Friday, October 31^st with the following hints and tips:

Practice costume safety: Make sure all costumes, wigs and accessories are fire resistant. Make sure the costume is comfortable and doesn’t pose a tripping hazard for your child.
For costumes worn to school:

Please ensure your child’s face is visible at all times. Masks and any other items that prevent students from being identified will not be permitted at school.
Costumes must not include weapons, replica weapons or objects that can be mistaken as such.
Costumes must not contain any words or images that could be offensive to others.
Students must dress in a manner that is appropriate for and respects the learning environment of the school.

If using makeup, choose non-toxic cosmetic products and test on a small area first to see if any irritation occurs. Many kids have sensitive skin.
Give kids a refresher on traffic safety.
Increase your child’s visibility – use reflective tape or give them flashlights or glow sticks to carry to ensure they are visible to motorists.
Encourage kids to stay together and have them stick to familiar, well-lit areas.
Reiterate that they should never enter a stranger’s house or accept a ride from someone they don’t know.
Inspect your child’s candy before they indulge and make sure to remove any treats that aren’t age appropriate (e.g., gum or jawbreakers) or that contain food items they are allergic to.

Upcoming Dates:

Hot Lunch Oct 31- White Spot

PAC Meeting Thursday, November 20th at 7PM

Chalmers PAC is now on Instagram! Follow us @chalmers_pac (Chalmers PAC) to stay updated on PAC events:

School Calendar:

Upcoming Dates:

Monday, October 27— Halloween Spirit Day- wear orange or black

Friday, October 31—Halloween- wear your “cool for school” costume- parade in the morning around 9AM

District Info:

Upcoming Important Dates:

See links below for vaccination, K dental screening and healthy back to school information from the district:

For Schools in North Delta: NDBA Fall 2025 Basketball Development Program

RCMP Heritage Centre

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Oct 20-24, 2025

Dear Stinger Families;

Monday, October 20th- Diwali Spirit Day– wear your traditional clothes or bright colors to celebrate Diwali!

Parent/Teacher Conferences:

We will be holding in-person Parent/Teacher Conference appointments on Tuesday, October 21st 2-6pm and Thursday, October 23rd 2-4pm. The purpose of these first conferences is to provide parents an opportunity to share information about their child with the teacher. This allows us to develop a better understanding of the students’ learning needs. All conferences will be booked using our Parent Connect Interview System. An email was sent out last week about how to book these in Parent Connect.

School Photo Information:

Hello Families!

Exciting news! Your online gallery from your school Catch Up photo session is now live!

Please visit this link to access the gallery: https://vando.imagequix.com/K9L3W9Z
The login code to access your images is on the yellow QR flyer your child was given on photo day. Please check with them.
Any active email address can be used to login.
Your order deadline is: November 6 2025
All orders will be shipped to the school. If you miss the deadline, your order will be shipped directly to your home with a shipping fee applied.

Missing your login code? No problem!

Visit https://weborders.mountainwest.ca
Click on “Looking for your login code?
Enter the information required.
Your code will be emailed within 1 business day.

Click Here to find out more about ordering.

Phone: 1.888.644.4494

Email: help@mountainwest.ca

Halloween at Chalmers

Here are a few guidelines for Halloween costumes at school:

should not be too scary
should be age appropriate
should not promote illegal activities, drugs/alcohol, or could be offensive or perpetuate a stereotype of someone’s culture, gender, heritage, or religion are not ok for school
must be safe & comfortable. Students must be able to sit, walk, breathe, see and hear. Anything that limits vision or restricts movement can lead to falling & other injuries. That’s no fun on Halloween! (students may wear masks during the parade, though)
must be in line with our dress guidelines (students are sufficiently covered and dressed for the weather)

toy weapons should be kept at home
not all students like to dress up (and that’s ok, too!)
since costumes worn to school may not survive the day intact, consider a spare/alternate costume and save the “real” one for trick or treating that night

Halloween Safety

We encourage all students to celebrate Halloween safely on Friday, October 31^st with the following hints and tips:

Practice costume safety: Make sure all costumes, wigs and accessories are fire resistant. Make sure the costume is comfortable and doesn’t pose a tripping hazard for your child.
For costumes worn to school:

Please ensure your child’s face is visible at all times. Masks and any other items that prevent students from being identified will not be permitted at school.
Costumes must not include weapons, replica weapons or objects that can be mistaken as such.
Costumes must not contain any words or images that could be offensive to others.
Students must dress in a manner that is appropriate for and respects the learning environment of the school.

If using makeup, choose non-toxic cosmetic products and test on a small area first to see if any irritation occurs. Many kids have sensitive skin.
Give kids a refresher on traffic safety.
Increase your child’s visibility – use reflective tape or give them flashlights or glow sticks to carry to ensure they are visible to motorists.
Encourage kids to stay together and have them stick to familiar, well-lit areas.
Reiterate that they should never enter a stranger’s house or accept a ride from someone they don’t know.
Inspect your child’s candy before they indulge and make sure to remove any treats that aren’t age appropriate (e.g., gum or jawbreakers) or that contain food items they are allergic to.

Upcoming Dates:

October 22nd – White Spot Fundraiser night

October 24th – Deadline to order White Spot hot lunch for October 31st

Hot Lunch Oct 31- White Spot

PAC Meeting Thursday, November 20th at 7PM

Chalmers PAC is now on Instagram! Follow us @chalmers_pac (Chalmers PAC) to stay updated on PAC events:

School Calendar:

Upcoming Dates:

Wednesday, October 1st-Nov 10: FSA’s (Foundational Skills Assessment) continue for grade 4 and 7

Monday, October 20^th: Diwali Spirit Day- wear bright colors and/or traditional clothing

Tuesday, October 21st Parent Teacher Conferences 2-6pm and Thursday, Oct 23rd 2-4pm Early Dismissal 2pm both days for students.

Friday, October 24th- Professional Day/No School for Students

District Info:

Upcoming Important Dates:

See links below for vaccination, K dental screening and healthy back to school information from the district:

For Schools in North Delta: NDBA Fall 2025 Basketball Development Program

RCMP Heritage Centre

Halloween Costume Swaps, Contests and More at the Delta Libraries

Halloween may still be a little while away, but you’ll want to hear about the skele-TON of fun fast approaching at the Delta Libraries! Make your Halloween hex-tra special with these free programs.

Join us at the George Mackie Library for a Halloween Costume Swap on Saturday, October 4, from 2 – 4 pm. Or stop by Tsawwassen Library for another Halloween Costume Swap on Friday, October 17, from 3 – 4 pm.

Show off your boo-tiful creativity for a chance to win a prize! Teens are invited to join the Teen Halloween Diorama Contest at Tsawwassen Library, and everyone is welcome to enter the Halloween Pumpkin Design Contest at Ladner Pioneer Library. Pick up your diorama supplies or pumpkin starting October 1, and let the Halloween fun begin!

For more details about these and other sweet program treats, visit our Events Page at www.fvrl.ca or fvrl.me/events.

GEORGE MACKIE LIBRARY

Spooky Fridge Magnets

Wednesday, October 1, 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm – George Mackie Library

Design your own Halloween fridge magnets, using Perler Beads, in this fun, creative program. All supplies included. For ages 5 – 12.

Halloween Costume Swap

Saturday, October 4, 2 pm – 4 pm – George Mackie Library

Do you have unused or gently used Halloween costumes you’d like to donate? Bring them to the library and SWAP with other families! Any costumes left over at the end of the day, will be donated.

Makedo Haunted Houses

Wednesday, October 15, 3:30 – 4:30 pm – George Mackie Library

Come and join us, to design your own, very spooky haunted house, using Makedo. Supplies provided. For ages 4 – 10 and their families. A spooky snack will be provided. Registration is required.

Halloween Spooky Stuffie Storytime & Sleepover

Thursday, October 23, 6:30 – 7 pm – George Mackie Library

Wear your Halloween costume and join us for a slightly spooky storytime, with one of your favourite stuffed animal friends, in costume (but not necessary),then leave them with us, for a library sleepover. Stay tuned the next day, to see what shenanigans they got up to. Registration is required.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Oct 13-17, 2025

Thanksgiving

Canadian Thanksgiving will be held Monday, October 13^th. Thanksgiving is a time for celebrating all the blessings of the past year and giving thanks to those who have helped us along the way.

“Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.”—William Arthur Ward

On behalf of all the staff at Chalmers Elementary, we wish all of you a Happy Thanksgiving! We hope this weekend finds you with moments of gratitude and togetherness with family and friends. We all have so much to be thankful for.

Great BC Shake Out

On Thursday October 16^th schools across the province will be taking part in the Great BC Shake Out earthquake drill. Students will learn about what could happen during an earthquake and how to keep themselves safe should one ever occur. In addition, our students will practice the “Duck, Cover, Hold” procedure too. This procedure involves ducking under a desk, covering our heads and backs, and holding on to the legs of the desk. Students will then count to 60 and await further instructions from their teacher. This will be the first of three Earthquake drills that we will complete as part of our Emergency Preparedness plan.

Reminder:

Last year, the district introduced a new annual Emergency Preparedness Fee of $10 per student. This is to cover the maintenance and replenishment of emergency provisions, including food, water and first aid items, to help care for students in case of a large-scale incident such as an earthquake. Last year’s Emergency Preparedness Fee was used to bolster emergency food and water supplies. It enabled the district to add a one-day supply of emergency food and water rations with a stable five-year shelf life to the supplies we already have in place. Our goal is to maintain at least a three-day supply of food and water for every student. As we now have a three-day supply of food for every student, this year’s $10 Emergency Preparedness Fee will be spent on topping up our water reserves and replacing sanitation and first aid items that have expired or are about to expire. If you haven’t paid this year’s $10 fee already, please send cash or a cheque (made payable to the name of your child’s school) to the school office or pay online through Parent Connect where available. If your family requires financial support in relation to this fee, please contact the school office. Discretion will be maintained. Thank you for your support of this important initiative.

Did you know? In the Spring of 2024 B.C. began operations of an Earthquake Early Warning system. This system provides up to tens-of-seconds of warning by detecting an earthquake immediately as it occurs; they do not predict earthquakes. These public alerts are sent though the national alerting system to cell phones, so there is no need to sign up to receive them. Criteria for alerts are based on the intensity of the shaking and the recipient’s distance from the earthquake epicentre. Earthquakes generating only low levels of shaking will not produce an alert. Additionally, sites very close to an earthquake‘s epicentre may be in the event’s “late alert zone”, within which alerts may arrive after the shaking. In general, if an alert is received it is best to assume the shaking is imminent and take immediate protective actions of DROP, COVER & HOLD. For more information, please visit: https://www.earthquakescanada.nrcan.gc.ca/eew-asp/system-en.php#response

Monday, October 20th- Diwali Spirit Day– wear your traditional clothes or bright colors to celebrate Diwali!

Parent/Teacher Conferences:

We will be holding in-person Parent/Teacher Conference appointments on Tuesday, October 21st 2-6pm and Thursday, October 23rd 2-4pm. The purpose of these first conferences is to provide parents an opportunity to share information about their child with the teacher. This allows us to develop a better understanding of the students’ learning needs. All conferences will be booked using our Parent Connect Interview System. More information is coming soon on how to book for upcoming conferences in an email.

Halloween at Chalmers

Here are a few guidelines for Halloween costumes at school:

should not be too scary
should be age appropriate
should not promote illegal activities, drugs/alcohol, or could be offensive or perpetuate a stereotype of someone’s culture, gender, heritage, or religion are not ok for school
must be safe & comfortable. Students must be able to sit, walk, breathe, see and hear. Anything that limits vision or restricts movement can lead to falling & other injuries. That’s no fun on Halloween! (students may wear masks during the parade, though)
must be in line with our dress guidelines (students are sufficiently covered and dressed for the weather)

toy weapons should be kept at home
not all students like to dress up (and that’s ok, too!)
since costumes worn to school may not survive the day intact, consider a spare/alternate costume and save the “real” one for trick or treating that night

Halloween Safety

We encourage all students to celebrate Halloween safely on Friday, October 31^st with the following hints and tips:

Practice costume safety: Make sure all costumes, wigs and accessories are fire resistant. Make sure the costume is comfortable and doesn’t pose a tripping hazard for your child.
For costumes worn to school:

Please ensure your child’s face is visible at all times. Masks and any other items that prevent students from being identified will not be permitted at school.
Costumes must not include weapons, replica weapons or objects that can be mistaken as such.
Costumes must not contain any words or images that could be offensive to others.
Students must dress in a manner that is appropriate for and respects the learning environment of the school.

If using makeup, choose non-toxic cosmetic products and test on a small area first to see if any irritation occurs. Many kids have sensitive skin.
Give kids a refresher on traffic safety.
Increase your child’s visibility – use reflective tape or give them flashlights or glow sticks to carry to ensure they are visible to motorists.
Encourage kids to stay together and have them stick to familiar, well-lit areas.
Reiterate that they should never enter a stranger’s house or accept a ride from someone they don’t know.
Inspect your child’s candy before they indulge and make sure to remove any treats that aren’t age appropriate (e.g., gum or jawbreakers) or that contain food items they are allergic to.

Upcoming Dates:

PAC Meeting Thursday, October 16th at 7PM in the library

PAC Update and Parent Wishlist Link:

Thank you to everyone who joined our first PAC meeting on Thursday, September 18th!

The PAC puts in a lot of effort into fundraising money for our school each year. With your generous donations, the PAC can provide many enriching resources and experiences for our students. The PAC would love your input on which resources, activities, or events you’d like to see at our school this year. Examples include:

· School-wide activities such as Hip Hop, Tennis, Gymnastics, or Drumming

· Gym/Playground/Outdoor Equipment

· Musical instruments or performances

· Books for the library

· A school mural or art project

· Class funds for special projects

· Technology such iPads, Laptops and Mounted Projectors

· School events such as a dance, party, or pancake breakfast

Please take a moment to fill out the Wishlist form – and don’t forget to ask your child if there’s something they’d love to see at school!

Parent Wishlist Link:

School Calendar:

Upcoming Dates:

Wednesday, October 1st-Nov 10: FSA’s (Foundational Skills Assessment) continue for grade 4 and 7

Monday, October 13^th: Thanksgiving Day Holiday (School Closed)

Wednesday, October 15th: Cross Country Challenge Run Gr 2-7 at Sunshine Hills Elementary 3:30pm

Thursday, October 16th, Photo Retake Day and the BC Great Shakeout-Drop, Cover, and Hold

Tuesday, October 21st Parent Teacher Conferences 2-6pm and Thursday, Oct 23rd 2-4pm Early Dismissal 2pm both days for students.

Friday, October 24th- Professional Day/No School for Students

District Info:

Upcoming Important Dates:

See links below for vaccination, K dental screening and healthy back to school information from the district:

For Schools in North Delta: NDBA Fall 2025 Basketball Development Program

RCMP Heritage Centre

Halloween Costume Swaps, Contests and More at the Delta Libraries

Halloween may still be a little while away, but you’ll want to hear about the skele-TON of fun fast approaching at the Delta Libraries! Make your Halloween hex-tra special with these free programs.

For more details about these and other sweet program treats, visit our Events Page at www.fvrl.ca or fvrl.me/events.

GEORGE MACKIE LIBRARY

Spooky Fridge Magnets

Wednesday, October 1, 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm – George Mackie Library

Design your own Halloween fridge magnets, using Perler Beads, in this fun, creative program. All supplies included. For ages 5 – 12.

Halloween Costume Swap

Saturday, October 4, 2 pm – 4 pm – George Mackie Library

Do you have unused or gently used Halloween costumes you’d like to donate? Bring them to the library and SWAP with other families! Any costumes left over at the end of the day, will be donated.

Makedo Haunted Houses

Wednesday, October 15, 3:30 – 4:30 pm – George Mackie Library

Come and join us, to design your own, very spooky haunted house, using Makedo. Supplies provided. For ages 4 – 10 and their families. A spooky snack will be provided. Registration is required.

Halloween Spooky Stuffie Storytime & Sleepover

Thursday, October 23, 6:30 – 7 pm – George Mackie Library

___________________________________________________________________________________________

The Weekly BUZZ

Oct 6-10, 2025

World Teachers’ Day October 5

World Teachers’ Day is held annually on October 5^th to celebrate all teachers around the globe. Please join us in saying a huge, “Thank You!” to all the educators at Chalmers who work so hard to inspire, guide and educate our students and make our school a great place to be!

Great BC Shake Out

Lost and Found

Our lost and found rack is already over-flowing with water bottles, jackets, hoodies and other items of clothing. Please label all your children’s clothing and have your child take a look at the display in the hallway outside the gym. We also put the clothing rack outside near the front of the school on sunny days for parents to go through the clothing as well. If they are not collected by the end of the first term, we will donate the items to a good cause.

PAC Update and Parent Wishlist Link:

Thank you to everyone who joined our first PAC meeting on Thursday, September 18th!

· School-wide activities such as Hip Hop, Tennis, Gymnastics, or Drumming

· Gym/Playground/Outdoor Equipment

· Musical instruments or performances

· Books for the library

· A school mural or art project

· Class funds for special projects

· Technology such iPads, Laptops and Mounted Projectors

· School events such as a dance, party, or pancake breakfast

Please take a moment to fill out the Wishlist form – and don’t forget to ask your child if there’s something they’d love to see at school!

Parent Wishlist Link:

Important Dates:

Meridian Meat Fundraiser Sept 15–Oct 10

Hot Lunch- Sushi–Oct 10

School Calendar:

Upcoming Dates:

Wednesday, October 1st-Nov 10: FSA’s (Foundational Skills Assessment) start for grade 4 and 7’s

Monday, October 13^th: Thanksgiving Day Holiday (School Closed)

Thursday, October 16th, Photo Retake Day and the BC Great Shakeout-Drop, Cover, and Hold

District Info:

Upcoming Important Dates:

See links below for vaccination, K dental screening and healthy back to school information from the district:

For Schools in North Delta: NDBA Fall 2025 Basketball Development Program

RCMP Heritage Centre

Halloween Costume Swaps, Contests and More at the Delta Libraries

Halloween may still be a little while away, but you’ll want to hear about the skele-TON of fun fast approaching at the Delta Libraries! Make your Halloween hex-tra special with these free programs.

For more details about these and other sweet program treats, visit our Events Page at www.fvrl.ca or fvrl.me/events.

GEORGE MACKIE LIBRARY

Spooky Fridge Magnets

Wednesday, October 1, 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm – George Mackie Library

Design your own Halloween fridge magnets, using Perler Beads, in this fun, creative program. All supplies included. For ages 5 – 12.

Halloween Costume Swap

Saturday, October 4, 2 pm – 4 pm – George Mackie Library

Do you have unused or gently used Halloween costumes you’d like to donate? Bring them to the library and SWAP with other families! Any costumes left over at the end of the day, will be donated.

Makedo Haunted Houses

Wednesday, October 15, 3:30 – 4:30 pm – George Mackie Library

Come and join us, to design your own, very spooky haunted house, using Makedo. Supplies provided. For ages 4 – 10 and their families. A spooky snack will be provided. Registration is required.

Halloween Spooky Stuffie Storytime & Sleepover

Thursday, October 23, 6:30 – 7 pm – George Mackie Library

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Sept 29-Oct 3, 2025

Dear Stinger Families,

National Day for Truth & Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day

Orange Shirt Day – Monday, September 29th

September 30th is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a time to recognize the harm caused by residential schools, honour survivors, and remember that Every Child Matters.

It is also Orange Shirt Day, which invites Canadians to wear orange to show support for survivors, their families, and communities.

Since schools are closed on September 30th, we will recognize both days on Monday, September 29th. Staff and students are encouraged to wear orange to honour Indigenous children who were sent to residential schools.

PAC Update and Parent Wishlist Link:

Thank you to everyone who joined our first PAC meeting on Thursday, September 18th!

· School-wide activities such as Hip Hop, Tennis, Gymnastics, or Drumming

· Gym/Playground/Outdoor Equipment

· Musical instruments or performances

· Books for the library

· A school mural or art project

· Class funds for special projects

· Technology such iPads, Laptops and Mounted Projectors

· School events such as a dance, party, or pancake breakfast

Please take a moment to fill out the Wishlist form – and don’t forget to ask your child if there’s something they’d love to see at school!

Parent Wishlist Link:

Important Dates:

Meridian Meat Fundraiser Sept 15–Oct 10

Treat Day- Krispy Kream Donut $2 — Oct 3

Hot Lunch- Sushi–Oct 10

School Calendar:

Upcoming Dates:

Monday, September 29^th: Orange Shirt Day * Truth and Reconciliation Walk

Tuesday, September 30^th: National Day of Truth and Reconciliation (School Closed)

Wednesday, October 1st-Nov 10: FSA’s (Foundational Skills Assessment) start for grade 4 and 7’s

Monday, October 13^th: Thanksgiving Day (School Closed)

District Info:

Upcoming Important Dates:

See links below for vaccination, K dental screening and healthy back to school information from the district:

For Schools in North Delta: NDBA Fall 2025 Basketball Development Program

RCMP Heritage Centre

Halloween Costume Swaps, Contests and More at the Delta Libraries

Halloween may still be a little while away, but you’ll want to hear about the skele-TON of fun fast approaching at the Delta Libraries! Make your Halloween hex-tra special with these free programs.

For more details about these and other sweet program treats, visit our Events Page at www.fvrl.ca or fvrl.me/events.

GEORGE MACKIE LIBRARY

Spooky Fridge Magnets

Wednesday, October 1, 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm – George Mackie Library

Design your own Halloween fridge magnets, using Perler Beads, in this fun, creative program. All supplies included. For ages 5 – 12.

Halloween Costume Swap

Saturday, October 4, 2 pm – 4 pm – George Mackie Library

Do you have unused or gently used Halloween costumes you’d like to donate? Bring them to the library and SWAP with other families! Any costumes left over at the end of the day, will be donated.

Makedo Haunted Houses

Wednesday, October 15, 3:30 – 4:30 pm – George Mackie Library

Come and join us, to design your own, very spooky haunted house, using Makedo. Supplies provided. For ages 4 – 10 and their families. A spooky snack will be provided. Registration is required.

Halloween Spooky Stuffie Storytime & Sleepover

Thursday, October 23, 6:30 – 7 pm – George Mackie Library

______________________________________________________________________________________

Sept 22-26, 2025

Dear Stinger Families,

We are so pleased with the turn out last week at our Open House. Thank you to all our families that came; it was wonderful seeing parents/guardians with their children in the building again and sharing with their child (ren) in their learning. We are looking forward to upcoming similar activities in the school.

Upcoming Dates:

Monday, September 29^th: Orange Shirt Day * Truth and Reconciliation Walk

Tuesday, September 30^th: National Day of Truth and Reconciliation (No School)

Monday, October 13^th: Thanksgiving Day (No School)

Reminder: No Parking in Kindergarten Area
We’ve noticed some parents parking outside the Kindergarten rooms during drop-off and pick-up. This area must stay clear for student safety.

· No parking is allowed in this area, except:

o Families with a handicap pass (designated stalls only)

o Two families who won the PAC auction parking stalls for the year

Please do not use the staff parking lot or pull-through area. Instead, park in permitted street areas or walk to school.

Thank you for helping keep our students safe!

National Day for Truth & Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day

Orange Shirt Day – Monday, September 29th

September 30th is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a time to recognize the harm caused by residential schools, honour survivors, and remember that Every Child Matters.

It is also Orange Shirt Day, which invites Canadians to wear orange to show support for survivors, their families, and communities.

PAC Update and Parent Wishlist Link:

Thank you to everyone who joined our first PAC meeting on Thursday, September 18th!

· School-wide activities such as Hip Hop, Tennis, Gymnastics, or Drumming

· Gym/Playground/Outdoor Equipment

· Musical instruments or performances

· Books for the library

· A school mural or art project

· Class funds for special projects

· Technology such iPads, Laptops and Mounted Projectors

· School events such as a dance, party, or pancake breakfast

Please take a moment to fill out the Wishlist form – and don’t forget to ask your child if there’s something they’d love to see at school!

Parent Wishlist Link:

Important Dates:

Meridian Meat Fundraiser Sept 15-Oct 10

Whitespot Fundraiser Sept 24

Hot Lunch Sept 26

School Calendar:

Upcoming Dates:

Monday, September 29^th: Orange Shirt Day * Truth and Reconciliation Walk

Tuesday, September 30^th: National Day of Truth and Reconciliation (No School)

Monday, October 13^th: Thanksgiving Day (No School)

District Info:

Upcoming Important Dates:

See links below for vaccination, K dental screening and healthy back to school information from the district:

For Schools in North Delta: NDBA Fall 2025 Basketball Development Program

RCMP Heritage Centre

cimsweb.deltasd.bc.ca/schoolconnect/parentsignone.aspx

Halloween Costume Swaps, Contests and More at the Delta Libraries

Halloween may still be a little while away, but you’ll want to hear about the skele-TON of fun fast approaching at the Delta Libraries! Make your Halloween hex-tra special with these free programs.

For more details about these and other sweet program treats, visit our Events Page at www.fvrl.ca or fvrl.me/events.

GEORGE MACKIE LIBRARY

Spooky Fridge Magnets

Wednesday, October 1, 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm – George Mackie Library

Design your own Halloween fridge magnets, using Perler Beads, in this fun, creative program. All supplies included. For ages 5 – 12.

Halloween Costume Swap

Saturday, October 4, 2 pm – 4 pm – George Mackie Library

Do you have unused or gently used Halloween costumes you’d like to donate? Bring them to the library and SWAP with other families! Any costumes left over at the end of the day, will be donated.

Makedo Haunted Houses

Wednesday, October 15, 3:30 – 4:30 pm – George Mackie Library

Come and join us, to design your own, very spooky haunted house, using Makedo. Supplies provided. For ages 4 – 10 and their families. A spooky snack will be provided. Registration is required.

Halloween Spooky Stuffie Storytime & Sleepover

Thursday, October 23, 6:30 – 7 pm – George Mackie Library

____________________________________________________________________________________

Sept 15-19, 2025

Welcome Back Open House

Dear Stinger Families,

We are so excited to invite families back into the school as Chalmers will be hosting a Welcome Back Open House for the school community this Thursday September 18th from 3:15 – 4:15pm. Students and parents can see their new classroom and meet their teachers!

Parent Connect – Permission is Required for Every Student

Even if you think you have already completed these steps, please log on and double-check …

Please log onto Parent Connect using the following:

Use your email account (this is the easiest way to get in) and password (if you have forgotten your password click on “forgot my password” and your password will be emailed to you). If you are a first-time user, please click on “retrieve initial password” and follow the prompts. You must allow for ‘Pop Ups’ on your computer. You can then access all your children at the school. You will need to sign in for each of your children attending Chalmers and change all of their passwords to match.

Please make sure all family demographics are up to date so that in the case of an emergency, the school can be in contact. Any changes can be made by calling or bringing new information to the school office.

Once you have completed your changes/additions to your child’s demographic information the “forms” tab on the screen and give your consent/permission to ALL of the following forms:

Family Demographic Information up-to-date
Photographs/Video/Website Consent
Google Apps for Education
Walking Field Trip
Fruit and Veggie Permission
Outside Media Consent form
Personal Information Consent

These show on two screens, once you have SAVED the first three the other one will show. Repeat for all children attending Chalmers.

When you log on to Parent Connect, please read the rules about outside media in schools. If you do NOT want your child involved with outside media activities, please print off the form to fill out.

Please take a few minutes to complete all these important forms as soon as possible

A Reminder about School Start Times:

Students should be lined up ready to enter the school at their assigned pod door by 8:40 AM and that students are expected to be in class and ready to learn at 8:45 AM.

It’s important to contact the office if your child is going to be absent for the day by calling the school or by emailing at chalmers.elem@deltaschools.ca

Student Absences

It is very important to call the school when your child is absent. Our safe arrival program relies on knowing which students will be not attending EACH day they are absent.

When you need to record an absence, please call the main office number at 604-594-5437 and listen to the prompt that will lead you to the absence voicemail. This is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so you can leave an absence message any time.

Please remember to leave your child’s first AND last name, the division and/or teacher and the reason for the absence. Please indicate whether this absence is an illness-related absence.

We know that many parents choose to directly email the Teachers, but the office still needs to be called in the event that the Teacher is absent and does not let the office know.

Thank you for helping us keep our students safe!

Spirit Wear Info in Link Here:

Chalmers Stingers Online Store

From September 7-21 we have begun an online order form for Chalmers Spirit Wear! All orders are online and the store is open Sept 7-21. Sample sizes of the hoodies are available to try on by the office & will be available on Friday, Sept 12 after school and Thurs, Sept 18 and the Open House night.

PAC Info:

Pleae see the latest info and dates here in this link:

PAC Sept 14th

PAC Meeting Sept 18th, 4:15pm (babysitting available)

Meridian Meat Fundraiser Sept 15-Oct 10

Whitespot Fundraiser Sept 24

Hot Lunch Sept 26 (order on Munchalunch by Sept 19th)

District Info:

Upcoming Important Dates:

See links below for vaccination, K dental screening and healthy back to school information from the district:

For Schools in North Delta: NDBA Fall 2025 Basketball Development Program

RCMP Heritage Centre

Before and After School Care Information

School Calendar:

Tuesday, September 16, Individual Photo Day

Thursday, September 18, Open House 3:15-4:15 and PAC Meeting 4:15pm (babysitting is available)

Friday, September 19, Professional Development Day (School is not in session)

Monday, September 29, Orange Shirt Day

Tuesday, September 30, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (School is Closed)

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Sept 8-12, 2025

Dear Stinger Families:

Once again, we would like to welcome everyone to a new school year at Chalmers Elementary. We hope everyone had an enjoyable summer and that the days of school have been smooth so far. A warm welcome is extended to our new families, both those in kindergarten and those with older children. We hope your children are settling into the school and that new friendships are already starting to form. It has been wonderful to hear and feel the energy that is created when our classrooms and playgrounds are filled with the excited sounds of children playing and learning together. Our students all seem to be enjoying being back at school and working with their teachers and friends.

All staff have been busy preparing for the new school year and are excited as we look forward to meeting and working with you on the learning adventure that lies ahead.

With students now in their permanent classes, we’d like to thank all of you for the patience you showed during the past week. Students and parents are anxious to find out which teacher(s) their child will work with, and teachers are anxious to meet their students and begin teaching. With that behind us now, we’re expecting the routines and procedures of the school year to be up and fully running in the days ahead.

Parent Connect:

Updating Family Information Using the Parent Connect System

The Delta School District’s Parent Connect program is a piece of online software that provides parents with the ability to update personal family information and monitor your child’s school records and attendance.

Changes to demographic information cannot be completed online by a parent at this time. Changes can be made by emailing this information to the school office at chalmers.elem@deltaschools.ca

For the convenience of our families, a quick link to the Parent Connect program has been placed on the Chalmers Elementary website (Home Page). Alternatively, parents can log into the Parent Connect program using the address: https://cimsweb.deltasd.bc.ca/schoolconnect/parentsignone.aspx

Please contact the school office if you have any questions regarding the use of the Parent Connect program.

A Reminder about School Start Times:

Students should be lined up ready to enter the school at their assigned pod door by 8:40 AM and that students are expected to be in class and ready to learn at 8:45 AM.

It’s important to contact the office if your child is going to be absent for the day by calling the school or by emailing at chalmers.elem@deltaschools.ca.

Extended Absences

Tardiness/attendance:

As we start the school year, we want to reinforce all of the good habits that help build success at school. Being present, on time and ready to learn are key elements for learning. Please work with your child to ensure they arrive at school with time to settle and be ready to start as the school day begins. Arriving late can cause stress while also disrupting the day for both your child and other students. Thank you for your support!

Elementary:

Over the course of a school year, students may be absent for short periods of time for a variety of reasons.  Extended absences, for reasons other than student health, should be carefully considered by families.  To ensure that our students miss as little time as possible from school, we ask for parents’ cooperation in scheduling family holidays outside of school time.

Schools are not in a position to approve or deny permission for student absences for family holidays or other extended absences.  This decision lies with the parent/guardian.  Please do inform the office and teacher in advance of the absence so they are aware. Should parents wish to remove their child from school for a lengthy period of time, consideration should be given to the implication this may have to their child’s education. Important learning is missed by students during any absence which puts them at a disadvantage compared with those in regular attendance.

Should a family decide to remove their child for an extended absence, the school is not required to provide educational materials.  Being present and engaged in the school setting goes beyond the materials provided. Teachers are not able to replicate the school experience by providing homework.  Please note that teachers are not obliged to provide learning materials or assignments during an extended vacation absence. Should a student be absent for a significant period of time and therefore is not able to demonstrate the learning outcomes for a particular course, it may not be possible to provide an appropriate proficiency scale in reporting on their learning.

New Stinger Staff:

While many of our staff are returning from last year, there are a number of new faces joining (or re-joining) the “Stingers” team. Please join us in extending a welcome to the following new and returning staff members:

Ms. K. Ford (Grade 4/5 Teacher)
Mme. T. Armstrong (Grade 7 LFI Teacher)
Ms. L. MacWilliam (Grade 6/7 Teacher)
Ms. A. Mackenzie (Grade 3/4 Teacher)
Mr. D. Leonard (Grade 3 and 4 Teacher)
Ms. L. Ashe (K/1 Teacher)
Ms. M. Elder (K Teacher)
Ms. S. Dash (Principal)
Mr. I. Leka (Community Hub Teacher)
Ms. T. Brown (Education Assistant)
Ms. H. Mander (Education Assistant-Community Hub)
Ms. T. Stanford (Education Assistant)
Ms. J. Koh (Education Assistant- Community Hub)
Ms. B. Khan (Education Assistant- Community Hub)
Ms. K. Leschuk (Librarian)

School Organization:

We start the year with 420 students spread into 18 divisions. Staff are excited to get underway with a year filled with inspiring educational experiences, and we look forward to working together with you so we can have your children be the best that they can be!

Terry Fox Run

We are having our Annual Terry Fox Run this Friday September 12th and we will be collecting toonies for Terry all week in student’s classrooms. Please help us support this cause and have your child bring in a toonie before we go outside and run.

Before and After School Care Info in flyer below:

Spirit Wear Info in Link Here:

Chalmers Stingers Online Store

This Sunday, September 7-21 we will begin an online order form for Chalmers Spirit Wear! All orders are online and the store is open Sept 7-21. Sample sizes of the hoodies are available to try on by the office & will be available on Friday, Sept 12 after school and Thurs, Sept 18 and the Open House night.

PAC Info:

Dear Chalmers families:

The PAC is excited to host a “Back to School Party”, on Friday, September 12 (3:00-5:00). Please see the attached flyer for details.

See Flyer here:

Back to school _20250905_143523_0000

Volunteers are needed. If you are interested in helping during the event please email: Chalmers.pac.delta@gmail.com

District Info:

Upcoming Important Dates:

See links below for vaccination, K dental screening and healthy back to school information from the district:

For Schools in North Delta: NDBA Fall 2025 Basketball Development Program

RCMP Heritage Centre

School Calendar:

Friday, September 12, Terry Fox Run and PAC Welcome Back Party 3-5pm

Tuesday, September 16, Individual Photo Day

Friday, September 18, Open House 3:15-4:15 and PAC Meeting 4:15pm

Friday, September 19, Professional Development Day (School is not in session)

Monday, September 29, Orange Shirt Day and Assembly

Tuesday, September 30, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (School is Closed)

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Sept 2-5, 2025

Welcome Back, Chalmers Stingers!

Hello Chalmers families,

I hope you all had a relaxing and fun summer break! My name is Ms. Dash, and I’m honoured to be joining Chalmers Elementary as your new Principal. I’m excited to become a part of this vibrant school community – home of the Stingers!

I have been an Elementary Administrator with the Vancouver School Board for over 10 years. Before that, I taught both primary and intermediate grades and worked as a School Counsellor with the Surrey School District. These experiences have shaped my deep commitment to supporting students and families in meaningful, inclusive, and engaging ways.

I’m truly looking forward to the year ahead and all the learning, growing, and fun we’ll share together. Ms. Bryan and I will be outside on the first day of school to welcome everyone back – if you see me, please come say hello. I would love to meet you!

Sincerely, Ms. Dash

New Lunch Drop-Off Routine – Starts Wednesday, September 3:

Starting Wednesday, September 3, all students must bring a lunch to school.

If your child enjoys a warm lunch, we recommend packing it at home in a thermos and sending it with them in the morning.

If you need to drop lunch off closer to lunchtime, please use our new system to keep hallways calm and safe:

A black & yellow bin will be outside the front doors from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.
Place your child’s labelled lunch bag or thermos in the bin.
The bin will be brought inside at 12:00 pm.
Students can pick up their lunch from the office at 12:07 pm, when lunch begins.

For safety reasons, students should not go outside to retrieve lunches.

Thank you for supporting this new routine!

September Walk, Bike, Scoot to School!

The beautiful September weather is the perfect time to walk, bike, or scoot to school! It’s a healthy way to start the day and helps reduce traffic and parking congestion around the school.

If you live farther away, consider parking 1–2 blocks from the school and walking in with your child.

For those biking or scooting:

Please wear a helmet and use a lock to secure your bike or scooter.
A reminder that electric scooters are not permitted on school grounds.

Thank you for helping keep our school community active and safe!

Electric Scooters

It has been brought to our attention that electric kick scooters should not be used by students travelling to school or while on school grounds.

Despite their popularity in our province, electric kick scooters remain illegal for use on public roads, bike lanes and sidewalks across most of B.C., except in a handful of cities that are taking part in a pilot program to test the use of them. The City of Delta is not part of the pilot program. Even in the pilot program cities, it is illegal for a person under 16 years of age to operate an electric kick scooter. You can view the provincial rules here: Electric Kick Scooter Pilot Project Regulation

Parking Reminders:

Road Safety

Pick up times can be busy and we have limited parking around the school. Due to this, we encourage families to walk to and from school if possible. To help us continue to keep our students and staff safe during pick up and drop off time, parents can do the following:

Keep our staff parking lot and front of the school clear of parent vehicles.
Make sure your children are walking on designated walking paths while near the staff parking lot and not cutting through
Do not block private driveways of houses near our school
Follow all road signs to ensure you are parked safely and legally

Walk Your Wheels On The Playground – For the safety of everyone, please remind your children they must walk their bikes, scooters (not electric), skateboards etc., when on the school grounds.

All staff have been busy preparing for the new school year and are excited as we look forward to meeting and working with you on the learning adventure that lies ahead.

Please read the following section carefully as it fully explains how students in Grades 1 – 7 will be organized for the first week of school (new Kindergarten students have already received information in the mail regarding the September gradual entry schedule):

Students in Grades 1 – 7 will return to school on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, from 8:45 – 12:00 pm
All returning students will report to the classroom that they were in during the 2024-25 school year
Grade 6 Late French Immersion students who attended Chalmers for Grade 5 will report to their last year’s class on the first day of school. After attendance, they will be escorted to their Grade 6 LFI classroom.
Grade 6 LFI students who attended a different school for Grade 5 will report to the gym. After attendance and a brief orientation, they will be escorted to their Grade 6 LFI classroom.
All new students will report to the gym for placement in temporary classrooms.
School hours during the first week back will be as follows:

Tuesday  – 8:45 – 12:00 pm

Wednesday  – 8:45 – 2:00 pm

Thursday/Friday – 8:45 – 3:00 pm

During the first week of school, most students entering Grades 2 – 7 will work with the teacher they had during the 2024-25 school year. However, students entering Grade 1 will work with other teacher(s), as their last year teacher will be needed to welcome our new kindergarten students.

For the first day however, Mrs. Corazza’s Ms. Elder’s and Ms. Waugh’s former students are to line up at their Kindergarten lineup place, and they will return to their old classroom for 15-30 minutes to re-connect. Assigned staff will then walk them to the classrooms that they will be working in (Library or Music Portable) and temporary teachers will work with them until they have been assigned to their new teacher/classroom.

Those students whose teacher is no longer at Chalmers will work with an assigned teaching staff member.

During the first week of school, students are asked to only bring a limited amount of school supplies (pencil box containing pencils and pens, pencil crayons, scissors, etc.). All other supplies should be left at home until they are assigned to their classes for the year. Once students are placed in their regular class we will give out the pre-purchased school supplies bought last year, for some families, for this current year.

Restricting cellphone usage in schools

In January 2024, the provincial government announced plans to restrict the use of cellphones in schools. Research shows that frequent cellphone interruption in the classroom, social media platforms with addictive algorithms and predators who seek to exploit young people all present significant risks to young people. The district emailed all families on June 20 regarding this new restriction, which comes into effect on July 1, 2024. Please click here to read the letter: https://district.public.deltasd.bc.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/06/DS-Letter-home-Personal-Digital-Devices-June-20-2024.pdf

PAC NEWS:

Your healthy back-to-school guide

As summer winds down, it’s time to gear up for a healthy back-to-school season. Set the stage for a smooth transition back to school. Here are some practical tips to get you started.

Prioritize sleep

Ensuring your child gets enough sleep is an important part of a healthy back-to-school routine. Quality sleep helps with concentration, mood and overall well-being. In the weeks leading up to the start of school, gradually adjust your child’s sleep schedule so they can adapt to the new routine. Aim for nine to 11 hours of quality sleep per night.

Eat well

Support your child’s learning and development with scheduled meals and snacks. Breakfast kick starts their morning, while snacks and lunches nourish them throughout the day. Pack a water bottle to help them stay hydrated.

Boost immunity

As with any public environment, school exposes children to various germs and viruses. Ensuring they are up-to-date on their vaccinations helps protect them and others. Specific immunizations are recommended for children prior to entering Kindergarten as well as in grades six and nine. Help your child avoid the spread of illness by encouraging them to wash their hands regularly, teaching them to cover their coughs and sneezes and keeping them home when sick.

Keep active

Adding physical activity to your child’s routine sets them up for success. Activities like walking or biking to school, playing sports, dancing, swimming or helping around the house are great ways for your child to stay active. Set limits on screen time and promote outdoor play as much as possible for overall well-being.

Make time for talking and connection

Going back to school can be a cause of anxiety or stress for children. Make it a point to encourage open communication and support your child to talk about their feelings and help them feel heard and understood. Integrate downtime into their routine where they can relax or focus on a special interest or hobby.

Find more school health tips and resources on Fraser Health’s website: https://ow.ly/gS1S50Pegic

Parent Connect

Updating Family Information Using the Parent Connect System

Changes to demographic information cannot be completed online by a parent at this time. Changes can be made by emailing this information to the school office at chalmers.elem@deltaschools.ca

Please contact the school office if you have any questions regarding the use of the Parent Connect program.

Helpful Suggestions for a Successful School Year

Here are some suggestions that will be helpful in establishing school routines and will make this year the most successful one yet for your child!

Read Together – Children who read at home with their parents are more successful in school. Show your children that you view reading as an important activity by keeping lots of reading material around the house and set aside time each evening for reading. Also, model reading yourself.

Establish A Daily Family Routine – Set a specific quiet time and place every day for homework or general reading. While you should be actively involved in your child’s homework routine, let them do household chores, being firm about times to get up and go to bed (some children require about 10 hours of sleeper night) and have dinner together whenever possible. Don’t forget about the importance of a healthy breakfast and lunch to ensure your child has the energy needed to make it through the day productively.

Talk Together – Find some time each day to ask your child about school. Ask specific questions that will require explanations. Not only will this provide you with an overview of what your child is learning each day but explaining their learning to you will heighten their understanding of their lessons.

Home-School Relationship – The importance of a strong home-school relationship cannot be overstated. Get to know your child’s teacher(s) and what they expect. Let them know you will reinforce the importance of schoolwork at home and keep them informed of important things happening in your family that may be affecting your child at school. Make sure your child knows that you are interested in their school. This will send the message that what they are doing is important.

Have High, But Realistic Goals – Make sure you set goals with your child that are achievable, but not too easy for their age, maturity, and ability. Don’t forget to celebrate when these goals are achieved.

Snack, Lunch, and Water Bottles

Please ensure that your child packs a snack, lunch, and water bottle daily.

This year, we will continue to have students pack out what was packed in their lunch. That is, we will ask that whatever comes in your child’s lunch bag goes home in their lunch bag, including empty juice boxes and food wrappers. In this way, we will create far less garbage at school, and you will have a better idea of what your child is finishing for lunch.

Dressing for the Weather

Our students will be heading outside for recess and lunch throughout the school year. Please ensure that your child is dressed for the weather to go out to play. Please expect that kids will go out for recess and lunch, unless there is extreme weather.

School-Wide Medical Alert

Several of our students have life-threatening allergies to eggs, peanuts, nuts (cashews, almonds, walnuts, pistachios, Brazil nuts, pecans, macadamias), and sesame seeds. Exposure to even tiny amounts of nut particles – residue on a desk, a book, a door handle, a computer keyboard, or a drinking fountain – may be enough to trigger a reaction. Please help us create a safe environment for them by keeping foods containing eggs, nuts, peanuts, and sesame seeds at home. Several companies are now making nut-free snacks and we encourage you to look for these new products when shopping. Other names for peanuts and other nuts include: arachide, arachis oil, beer nuts, goober nuts, goober peas, ground nuts, kernels, mandelonas, nut meals, valencias, anacardium nuts, calisson, marzipan, pinion, Queensland nut (macadamia). Label reading is the key to sending safe, nut-free foods to school. Please do your part to ensure our school environment is a safe one for all our students. THANK YOU!!

Administration of Medication

Schools are required to maintain a safe procedure for dispensing medications. We would like to have information regarding medication administration within the first two weeks of school. If your child is required to take medication at school, please request a Request for Administration of Medication at School form from the office. These forms must be completed each year and are required to be signed by your physician.

Terry Fox Run

We are having our Annual Terry Fox Run on Friday September 12th and we will be collecting toonies for Terry all that week in their classrooms. Please help us support this cause and have your child bring in a toonie before we go outside and run.

School Calendar

Sunday, September 7, Spirit Wear Orders Open Online

Friday, September 12, Terry Fox Run

Tuesday, September 16, Individual Photo Day

Friday, September 18, Open House 3:15-4:15

Friday, September 19, Professional Development Day (School is not in session)

Monday, September 29, Orange Shirt Day and Assembly

Tuesday, September 30, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (School is Closed)

Upcoming Important Dates: