FMM ELL

The Final Week of Semester 1 (2011/2012)

2012-01-23T10:42:00.000-05:00

As you all know, it is the final week of Semester 1 at FMM and we are all busy completing assignments, and preparing for exams.

Many exams start this week so we should ALL be in "Exam Mode." There is no time to waste.

As always, extra help is available in the ELL Centre at all times and especially after school.

Since exams are in progress, you must not come to the Centre to eat, or socialize during Period 3. Make sure consume your lunch in the cafeteria. You may enter for quiet study ONLY once you have eaten.

Semester 2 resumes on Monday February 6. On this day you will re-visit your semester 1 classes for 15 minutes to see your exams, then after 4 rotations, you will go to your new semester 2 classes.

Have a great week and rest of the semester.

Two Weeks Left in Semester 1

2012-01-16T07:30:00.000-05:00

If you haven't figured it out yet, it is time get serious about your schoolwork.

In class exams begin on Friday January 20th and all of next week. The formal exam schedule begins on Friday January 27 - the day after the last day of classes on Thursday January 26.

If you have any Library books, please return them by January 25.

Best of luck on your Exams and CPT's.

One Night, One Love

2012-01-11T14:17:00.000-05:00

If you can, please support and attend this great event.

Happy 2012!

2012-01-09T07:30:00.000-05:00

Welcome back and Happy 2012 to Everyone!

We only have 3 weeks left so things will be busy for everyone.

You should be completing assignments, CPT's, and preparing for Exams.

The formal exams period officially begins on Friday January 27. But in class exams will begin as early as this Friday.

All students need to look at the Exam Schedule and submit your requests to Mr. Hospedales regarding your intent to write your exams in Room 327.

The MIC group will be organizing Exam tutoring and group study sessions after school in preparation for exams. Please pay attention to announcements and poster in Room 327 for details. We will also host a Resume and Cover Letter workshop next week during lunch periods - please ask the ELL teachers for details.

Have a great end of the semester!

We miss you Lisset & Luis.

Our Annual Christmas Lunch

2011-12-23T09:00:00.000-05:00

The ELL held the annual Christmas luncheon lastyear in ESL room with different kinds of delicious cultural food brought by theELL students and fun games throughout the luncheon.

The Christmas luncheon washeld last year, December 17 in the year of 2011. The McGivney InternationalClub organized the luncheon; their goal is the have a spectacular Christmasparty for ELL students.

Their hard works paid off, the luncheon was a blast!Students from the ELL even the teachers had an amazing time during the party;students played several games, chat with their friends, and ate different kindsof appetizing delicacies from different cultures. Overall, the Christmasluncheon last year was fantastic and incredible! And thanks to M.I.C membersfor all to make this the remarkable party of 2011. I couldn’t wait for thisyear’s Christmas luncheon! .

Written by: IrishMarigmen

Enjoy some of the pictures from this great day!

Semester 1, Week 16 - Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

2011-12-19T07:30:00.000-05:00

This is the last week of school before we head off on Christmas break.

When we return to class on Monday January 9, it will be a very busy month. With the many CPT's due, preparing for exams, and the eventual writing of exams which will start during the week of Monday January 23rd.

We suggest you get some rest during the two week break, but also start reviewing for exams and use the time to work on your CPT's or any other missing assignments.

Have a great Christmas and all the best in the New Year!

Semester 1, Week 15

2011-12-12T10:35:00.001-05:00

Our big event this week ---- The Annual ELL Christmas Luncheon

This will occur on Wednesday December 14 during Period 3.

ELL students are asked to bring in food to share with their fellow ELL community. If we all bring in a little we will have a lot of great food.

The only items students are not allowed to bring in are: pop or chips. Peanut items should be avoided but please let us know of you do bring in items with this ingredient or with pork to alert some of our students that must avoid these food items.

We look forward to another outstanding Christmas Potluck Lunch.

Also, there will be an Advent Liturgy on Thursday December 15.

Have a great week!

Semester 1, Week 14

2011-12-05T08:00:00.000-05:00

As we approach Christmas and the holiday break, things are very busy here at FMM.

Here are a few of the things going on:

The Share Christmas Campaign kicks off today (Monday)

Marketing Fair - Tuesday to Thursday during lunches A & C this week

Sr. Boys Basketball Tournament at FMM Thursday to Saturday. There will be a 4th period buyout in support of the Jamaica Missions.

Next week, on Wednesday December 14, we will have our annual ELL Christmas Lunch. You are invited to contribute food items (preferably from your native country) to share with everyone. If we all bring in a little, it will add up to a lot of great food for everyone.

Have a great week!

Semester 1, Week 13

2011-11-28T13:40:00.001-05:00

Our MIC Group put on an excellent presentation last Thursday. The topic was "What does it mean to be Canadian?"

All in attendance were treated to fun games - Musical Chair Canadian Symbols Scavenger Hunt, lots of sharing of experiences - first arrival to Canada, adjusting to a new country, etc. The group also put together an entertaining video which took a look at real life classroom experiences.

We ended the day with "Canadian" treats - Timbits from Tim Hortons.

Much thanks go out the the MIC executive of Kevin, Sandrine, Zabihollah, Sihwa, Alan, Lisset, and Luis. And of course our Settlement workers for their guidance, passion, and the treats. The group has more activities planned. Stay tuned!

What going on this week at FMM?

It is Health Week & the Share Christmas Campaign.

There are a variety of Lunch A & C Health related activities planned. Listen to announcements.

Plus, there is the homeroom trivia contest.

On Friday December 2 we will have a Talent Show in the Cafeteria at 6:30 pm. Make sure to purchase your tickets and enjoy FMM's talented students.

Have a great week!

Semester 1, Week 12

2011-11-21T10:57:00.000-05:00

A big week for us here at the ELL Centre.

On Thursday November 24, the McGivney International Circle (MIC) will host a "What does it mean to be Canadian?" Presentation in the ELL Centre. It starts at 2:45pm and goes to 3:45pm.

Please make sure to attend and arrive on time. It will be a great time of learning, sharing and fun.

On Tuesday November 22 from 6:30-9pm we will host a Grade 8 Parent Information Night. This will be a great opportunity to learn more about the school's programs, specifically the new IB Program.

Please remember that Friday November 24 is a PA Day.

Have a great week!

Semester 1, Week 11 - OSAID Week!

2011-11-14T09:35:00.001-05:00

It is OSAID Drug & Alcohol Awareness Week at Father McGivney.

Events are planned each day in order to raise awareness and educate everyone about the perils of Drinking and Driving, and Drug use.

Don't Forget that this Thursday is Parent/Teacher Interviews too. Interviews start at 5:30pm and go until 8:30pm. Make sure to schedule an appointment.

Here is a quick outline of the events planned this week:

Monday
- Car crash presentation

Tuesday
- YCDSB board staff interviews FMM ELL students all day at FMM.
- Impaired Driver Simulation (Lunch A & C)

Wednesday
- Red Shirt Day - wear a red shirt over your uniform in support of OSAID

Thursday
- "Grim Reaper" random visits all day
- Parent/Teacher Interviews: 5:30pm - 8:30pm.

Friday
- Vision Impaired Goggles for Obstacle Course in Lobby (Lunch A & C)

Have a Great Week!

Semester 1, Week 10 - Lest We Forget

2011-11-07T09:19:00.000-05:00

Remembrance Day occurs this upcoming Friday November 11th.

There are a variety of activities planned during the week but especially on that day.

Guest speakers will be at the school, and at 11 am there will be a Remembrance Day Prayer Service and the playing of the Last Post.

Mid-Term Report Cards will be distributed on Thursday November 10.

* please make sure to make your appointments for Parent/Teacher Interviews for Thursday November 17th. Interviews occur from 5:30pm to 8:30pm.

Have a great week!

Lest we forget!

Semester 1, Week 9

2011-10-31T12:49:00.003-04:00

Monday (All Hallows Eve)
- Dress Up day, and Haunted House operated by SAC

Tuesday
- Halloween for Hunger
- Dodgeball Intramurals

Wednesday
- Take Our Kids To Work Day (All Grade 9 Students)

Thursday
- Teacher Mid-Term Marks are due to the office

Friday & Saturday
- FMM Crosscountry at the OFSAA Crosscountry Championships (Ottawa)

Semester 1, Week 8 - Free the Children Week

2011-10-25T09:33:00.001-04:00

We've got another busy week at FMM.

Tuesday
- Go Local Assembly
- Intramural Dodgeball after school

Wednesday
- Hunger Awareness campaign by FTC Students
- Halloween for Hunger campaign starts (see main Foyer during lunches)

Thursday
- Halloween for Hunger campaign

Friday
- Halloween for Hunger campaign

* Next Week is Mid Term Reporting Week. Get all of your assignments in and study hard for your tests.

Have a great week!

2011: Semester 1, Week 7

2011-10-17T11:52:00.002-04:00

It is Bullying Awareness & Prevention Week at Father McGivney.

Students are being engaged with a variety of activities all week.

Make note that Wednesday is PINK Shirt day where we wear a pink shirt to show our support for anti-bullying.

Special thanks go out the the ESP Team.

Our Cross Country Team is racing tomorrow at the YRAA Championships. Find out more about the team here at http://www.runnerspace.com/Father-McGivney

Picture re-takes take place this Thursday. New ID cards can be had for $3 and new photo packages can be had if you were not satisfied the first time or missed the photographer's last visit to FMM.

Thursday is also Awards Night. It starts at FMM at 7pm. Award winners should have been notified already.

Have a Great Week!

2011: Semester 1, Week 6

2011-10-11T09:24:00.000-04:00

We hope you all had a Great Thanksgiving Holiday with your families.

But now we are back at it and you should be ready to work because Mid Term Reports will come soon --- the week of November 7th to be exact.

If you signed up to make a casserole for the Thanksgiving Drive, make sure to bring it/them in on Friday to Chaplaincy.

Looking Ahead to next week:

It is Bullying Awareness Week. Special activities are planned all week. Including wearing a pink shirt on Wednesday October 19.

October 20 - Picture Retake Day

October 20 - Awards Night at the School

Have a Great Week!

2011: Semester 1, Week 5

2011-10-03T11:11:00.004-04:00

Most of the Grade 9's are at Muskoka Woods for the next few days for Grade 9 Orientation.

For those of you who are voting age and are eligible to vote in the Ontario Provincial Election, please make sure to get out and vote on Thursday October 6th.

If you have not received a mark update from your course teachers, please request one so you know were you currently stand in the course.

Have a great week!

2011: Semester 1, Week 4

2011-09-26T19:51:00.002-04:00

Time is certainly flying by. We are already in our fourth week of school.

Remember tomorrow is our trip to the Immigrant Youth Centre.
Make sure to go to your homeroom for attendance, then assemble in Room 327 and we will depart for our trip when the bus arrives. We will be back in time for our regular school dismissal.

If you still need to bring in your permission forms for the trip, make sure you do so tomorrow and give them to Ms. Spicer, or else you will not be able to attend the trip.

Also, if you would like to be part of a team, and stay in shape at the same time, consider joining the FMM Crosscountry Team. See Mr. Hospedales for details. The team practices every day afters school at 245 pm at the track.

Have a great week!

Welcome Back!

2011-09-07T09:26:00.002-04:00

Welcome to the 2011-2012 Academic Year at Father McGivney!

We are an official IB School. Find out more about that here.

If you are in need of schedule changes, please see Ms. Spicer in room 327.
She is mostly available before the start of school, during period 1, period 4 (Day 1), and after school.

Have a great first week!

Study hard and have a Great Summer!

2011-06-20T07:50:00.000-04:00

All the best with your Exams!

Congratulations to our ELL Graduates!

And..........................

See you in September!

Semester 2, Week 19

2011-06-13T08:24:00.000-04:00

This week at FMM:

1. Grade 9 EQAO - Tuesday amd Wednesday

2. Best Buddies BBQ - Friday

3. Lots of studying and reviewing for Exams either late this week and definitely next week and the week after.

The last day of classes is Tuesday June 21st.

Semester 2, Week 18

2011-06-06T12:16:00.000-04:00

Get Ready for Student Appreciation Day on Thursday.

We appreciate all of our students and want to celebrate everyone, and show why we have the greatest school in the World!

The Grade 12 Drama Production opens on Thursday too. The performance starts a 6:30 pm in the Cafeteria. Get your tickets now. They will also perform on Friday night.

Up Next week - Student Government Elections, Grade 9 EQAO

Remember that Exams begin on June 22nd. In-class exams will start before then.

Semester 2, Week 17 - Diversity Week

2011-05-30T08:17:00.003-04:00

A big week for us here in the ELL Department.

Our students will be taking the lead in many presentations and performances during Diversity Week.

Here are the details for this special week:

Homeroom Door Decorating Contest (adjudication Friday, June 3, 2011)
· Each homeroom is asked to decorate their door to reflect the diversity
of students represented in that room
· Be as creative with your presentation
· Pictures of food, flags, people, cultural activities
· Can be 3-D or interactive
· Prizes for the top 3 doors

A Map of the world (Tuesday, May 31, 2011) - will be posted in the school showing the diversity of countries of origin – homeroom teachers will take a poll of the various countries students come from – homeroom rep will come down to the office to put a sticker on our map of the world.

Diversity Week Trivia (Tuesday, May 31 – Friday, June 3, 2011) – each day, over the P.A., homerooms will be challenged to answer 5 trivia questions ranging in international topics from Geography to Literature. The home room with the most questions right by the end of the week wins a prize.

Wear a Culturally Inspired Top (Wednesday, June 1, 2011) – wear a t-shirt or top that celebrates a particular culture – you must wear uniform pants.

Each day the cafeteria will feature a dish from a different country:
· Monday – Italian – Lasagna
· Tuesday – Chinese – Chicken Fried Rice
· Wednesday – Greek – Chicken Souvlaki
· Thursday – Indian – Samosas
· Friday – Caribbean – Jerk Chicken

Stage Performances (June 1 – 3, 2011) - students will present a cultural dance in the cafeteria:
· June 1, 2011 – Lunch A & C – Black or White – Michael Jackson
· June 2, 2011 – Lunch A & C – Indian (Solo Performance)
· June 3, 2011 – Lunch A & C – Phillipino Cultural Dances

Presentations – (June 1 – 3, 2011) - Lower Lecture Hall – Lunch B
(RSVP with C. Spicer):
· June 1, 2011 – China and Latin America
· June 2, 2011 – Korea and Sri Lanka· June 3, 2011 – Egypt, Afghanistan and Mauritius

Semester 2, Week 16

2011-05-24T20:34:00.002-04:00

The highlight for us this week is the Canada's Wonderland Trip on Thursday.

Students need to be at school at the regular school time, and we will be back at around 7pm.

Our students are looking forward to this annual trip and tradition.

While we will be having fun, don't let the homework, assignments, CPT's, and studying for test slide. There is not much time left until the end of the year and exams.

Have a great week!

Semester 2, Week 15

2011-05-17T13:23:00.002-04:00

A relatively light week this week.

On Friday, the Spring Fling 5k Run takes place during A lunch.

Don't forget that this coming Monday is Victoria Day. There will be no classes.

Then later that week, on Thurday May 26th to be exact, the ELL's will be going on our trip to Canada's Wonderland.

More to come next week.

Semester 2, Week 14

2011-05-12T09:43:00.000-04:00

It is OSAID / Prom Week!

There is lots of activities this week thanks to OSAID. Make sure to listen to announcements and to check out the activities in the foyer and cafeteria.

Friday is PROM at the Grand Bacchus.

Have a great week!

Semester 2, Week 13

2011-05-02T07:41:00.000-04:00

It is Justice Week at FMM. There will be a number of activities so keep an eye out.

We've got a few ELL Related Events this week:

Thursday May 5 from 2:40 - 4 pm in Room 327.
South Asian and Korean Culture Presentation

Friday May 6 from 4 - 530pm.
Tamil Women's Circle
* Socialize and meet other parents, discuss and learn about important topics.
Contact Logini Vinay for more information and to register. (416) 312-5240

Don't forget that is coming Sunday is Mother's Day, so treat your Mom's to a great day.

Also, be reminded that Monday May 9th is a PA Day. Classes resume on Tuesday May 10.

Here are a few more scheduled activities:
May 3 to 5 - Marketing Fair
May 4 to 6 - SLAM Training
May 4 - YSCPC Elections
May 5 - Waterloos Physics Contest
May 5 - Youthspeak Assembly (grades 10 and 11) Period 4

Semester 2, Week 12

2011-04-26T07:51:00.002-04:00

Welcome back! We hope you had a Wonderful Easter with your families.

With another short week ahead, these week will be busy with tests and assignments.
Please do not fall behind.

Remember that we will have our Easter Liturgy on this Wednesday April 27.

This week is also Arts Week, so make sure to take in all the activities and exhibits from the Arts community. Of special note is Arts Night on Thursday April 28.

Have a Great Week!

Semester 2, Week 11 - Holy Week!

2011-04-18T07:11:00.002-04:00

Holy Week started on Palm Sunday and continues this week. Please be mindful of the upcoming Catholic Holy Days and Celebrations.

Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday.

There will be no classes on Friday April 22 because of Good Friday, and no classes on Monday April 25 because of Easter Monday.

We will have our Easter Liturgy at FMM on Wednesday April 27.

It is also Health Week and Cosmetology Week at FMM.
Make sure to keep an eye out for the many scheduled activities. Especially during the lunch periods in the main foyer.

Yours in Christ.

Semester 2, Week 10

2011-04-11T13:52:00.004-04:00

It is Bullying Awareness & Prevention Week at FMM.

There are a number of activities taking place the entire week, and today we started the week with the entire school body taking a Bullying Prevention Pledge during homeroom.

Tomorrow, there will be a school wide Bullying presentation in the Gym.

Also tomorrow, Mid-Term Report Cards will be distributed at 2:15 pm. Make sure to book your interviews for Parent/Teacher Interview night.

Parent/Teacher Interview Night is this Thursday April 14.

Interviews start at 5:30 pm.

Please book an appointment (appointment sheets are with the report cards) and do not just drop in because it is very likely that times are fully pre-booked and teachers will not have room to accommodate you.

Have a great week!

Semester 2, Week 9

2011-04-04T11:45:00.002-04:00

Congratulations go out to all of our students who wrote the OSSLT. It was a long day for all involved and we know you gave it your best.

Things do not get any easier this week. Teachers will be submitting mid term marks on Wednesday so there will be lots of tests and assignments occurring over the next few days.

Mid Term Report Cards will be distributed on Tuesday April 12.

Parent Teacher Interviews will occur on Thursday April 14. The appointment sheet will be included with the report card. Please book your appointment early to ensure you get the times you want.

Have a great week!

Semester 2, Week 8 - OSSLT Tomorrow

2011-03-30T11:15:00.002-04:00

Yes, the OSSLT is tomorrow.

We have a special schedule and a letter was sent home with students outlining the day's activities.

Students writing the OSSLT must be at school on time to start the test at 8:30 am. Be here at 8:15 am to be safe. Lateness is not an option!

After students write the OSSLT (mostly Grade 10's), we will have a modified school day starting at 12 noon with Period 1.

All students must be in attendance! Tomorrow is NOT a day off!

By the way, this is Best Buddies Week. Our Special Education Department is running a variety of activities. Please take part and show your support.

And on a final note, Congratulations go out to all members of Mr. Hospedales' World Religions Home Room Class. They raised the most money in the entire school in support of the victims of the Japanese Earthquake and Tsunami. An average of $23+ per student. The second best class had an average of just over $4.

Good luck to all students writing the OSSLT!

Semester 2, Week 7 - Our students Dance!

2011-03-22T08:58:00.006-04:00

Welcome Back!

We hope your March Break was restful but now it is time to get back to work.

Students are reminded that OSSLT Classes resume tomorrow at 2:45 pm, and that the OSSLT Test date will soon be here on Thursday March 31st. There will be a revised schedule on that day so stay tuned for that information.

Lastly, congratulations go out to our ESL students who performed the "Black or White" dance this past Sunday at the 13th Annual Many Faces of Markham Concert. You were great and did us proud.

Have a look at the performance below:

Have a great week!

Semester 2, Week 6

2011-03-07T08:12:00.000-05:00

On March 9th of this week we will celebrate Ash Wednesday. Ashes will be distributed throughout the day. Please see your homeroom teacher for details.

There will be a Memorial Liturgy on Thursday March 10.

Don't forget that March Break begins after classes on Friday. The Break runs from March 14 to 21.

Classes resume on Tuesday March 22nd.

Keep working hard and have a great week!

Semester 2, Week 5

2011-02-28T09:05:00.001-05:00

* Course Selection Forms and the $80 fee are due this week. Please have everything in order and ready for collection during homeroom.

*On Friday, our Guidance staff will clean up any registration issues and accept any outstanding fees. This is your last day to register and sign up for the courses you want for 2011-2012. Otherwise, your choices will be limited.

OSSLT Classes begin Wednesday. It starts at 2:45 pm and goes to 3:45 pm.

Have a great week!

Semester 2, Week 4

2011-02-23T12:01:00.005-05:00

There is lots going on this week, here goes:

Today
Black History Presentation, Celebrations, and Food (for sale during lunches)

Thursday February 24
Arts Awareness Day
Grade 9-11 - Waterloo Math Contest

* Course Selection Parent Information Night 6:30-9pm

Have a Great Week!

Semester 2, Week 3

2011-02-14T12:05:00.002-05:00

We are well underway with all of our courses for semester 2, and all students should have plenty of homework, assignments to complete, and tests to study for. No student should be saying things like - "I've got no homework" or "I've got nothing to do!" If they do, please feel free to contact teachers at the school to find out what is really happening.

It is course selection time for next year and there are a number of things happening to help with that. Assemblies, consulting with teachers and guidance counsellors, and our Course Selection Parent Information Evening on Thursday, February 24th beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Here are some important websites to visit to get more information.

http://fmmh.ycdsb.ca/courseselection/courseselection

http://fmmh.ycdsb.ca/courseselection/coursecalendar

Have a great week!

Semester 2 - Week 2

2011-02-09T11:03:00.003-05:00

A busy February Ahead.
Of note is the OSSLT Preparation Parent Information Meeting tonight at the school.

Wednesday, Febrary 9, 2011
Course Selection Begins with Homeroom Visits
GO Local Program - Training Session #2
OSSLT PREPARATION PARENT INFORMATION EVENING

Thursday, February 10, 2011
Volunteer Fair

February 14 - 18, 2011
Canadian Improv Games Week
Valentine's Day Activities
French Week

February 14 - 15, 2011
DECA Provincials

February 17, 2011
OBA Concert
Band Festival
Gr. 11/12 Ski Trip

February 21 - 25, 2011
Ontario Sears Drama Festival Week

February 21, 2011
FAMILY DAY - SCHOOL IS CLOSED

February 22, 2011
Grade 11 Retreat

February 23, 2011
Black History Month Observance
Presentation: Tiki Mercury, Black History Month
Grade 11 Retreat
Course Selection Homeroom visits end
Session #1 - OSSLT Extended Day Program

February 24, 2011
Grad Photos
Arts Awareness Day
Grade 11 Retreat
COURSE SELECTION PARENT INFORMATION EVENING

February 25, 2011
Grad Photos

February 28, 2011
Grade Photos
Grade 9 Registration
Session #2 - OSSLT Extended Day Program

For SNC2DS
Here is the website for your online textbook.

Welcome to Semester 2, Week 1

2011-02-02T10:15:00.004-05:00

It is another busy startup week in the ELL Department.

Students requiring timetable changes need to see Ms. Spicer personally before the end of this week.

Today of course is the snowstorm day. The school is open.

However, as this is being written, while there are not many students present in class, it is still considered a normal school day unless determined otherwise later in the day.

Have a great rest of the week and to all of our Chinese students - Happy New Year!

Week 19 - Exams end this week, Classes resume on...

2011-01-25T16:09:00.002-05:00

The last day of exams is this Thursday (Friday if there is bad weather).

There is a PA day on Monday January 31st.

Semester 2 resumes on Tuesday February 1st.

If you still have exams to write, we wish you the best of luck. If not, see you again on Tuesday.

Week 18 - Exams Begin

2011-01-18T14:38:00.002-05:00

In class exams have begun.

Access ro room 327 will be limited because of this.
Enter quietly and only come into the class if you need to write an exam or need to do quiet work.

Friday is the last day of semester one classes.

Good luck on your exams.

Week 17 - The Exam Schedule Posted

2011-01-10T13:43:00.004-05:00

Yes, there is not much time.

The exam schedule is out and should be posted in all classrooms.

Make sure to fill in the exam request form in order to write your exams in the ESL room.

You must fill that in and get it to Ms. Spicer before the end of this week.

Have a great week and keep working hard.

Week 16 - Just 15 days left

2011-01-03T11:38:00.001-05:00

Yes, it will be a busy 3 weeks for everyone here at FMM.

There is just 15 days of class left before regular exams begin on Monday January 24th.

Keep in mind that there are even less days of class for those writing exams in-class during the week of January 17th - 21st.

So, all students need to crank up their effort levels to make sure they perform as well as possible on assignments, tests, and exams during this period of time.

Also, EQAO MATH TESTING (GRADE 9) – takes place on January 11 & 12. ELL students will be writing their test together with Ms. Spicer.

All students should make sure to have their assigned textbooks, and to submit them during exams. Or else they will be charged a replacement fee.

Have a great week!

Week 15 - 5 Days to Go

2010-12-13T08:20:00.003-05:00

Yes, just five more days to go until the we leave for Christmas Break. We all look forward to spending time with our families but there is still lots of work to be done.

We had our biggest ELL Christmas lunch on Friday and everyone had a wonderful time. Thanks to everyone who contributed food and drinks to the celebration. Everything tasted incredible and everyone was left with full bellies.

After this week, when we return to classes on January 3rd, there will only be 3 weeks of classes left before Exams. That is not a lot of time.

So start preparing for exams, and make sure to complete your CPT's and assignments. This is not the time to neglect your work.

Have a great week and keep up the hard work. And most of all..............

Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Week 14 - ELL Annual Christmas Lunch

2010-12-06T10:27:00.003-05:00

Our Annual ELL Christmas Lunch will take place this Friday December 10 from 11:30 am - 1:15 pm.

This is a great celebration and students are asked to contribute to the lunch by bringing in food from their particular cultural background.

Please make sure to sign up on the Food List in the ELL Room before Friday.

On Friday, bring in your food items prior to the start of first period.

See you on Friday and have a great week!

Week 13 - FMM Open House Today

2010-11-30T10:55:00.003-05:00

Tonight is the FMM Open House.

Parents of students or potential students are invited to visit tonight to find out more about all of the school's programs and of course the INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE PROGRAM.

The Agenda for the evening is below:

ASSEMBLY - all parents and Grade 8 students - in Gymnasium at 7.00 pm

At 7:45 - Parents/students interested in the FMM PreIB program WILL REMAIN in GYM.

ALL OTHERS will visit booths and displays.

The "IB" group of parents/students will follow about 20 minutes later will then visit booths/displays.

This week we also have the Marketing Fair happening during both lunches.

Week 12 - Bullying Awareness Week

2010-11-23T10:52:00.003-05:00

It is Bullying Awareness Week at FMM. There are a lot of activities planned. Pay attention to announcements and lunch presentations.
Plus more......

November 23, 2010
- Grade 12 Law Field Trip - M. Bozzo, D. Corazza

November 23 - 26, 2010 - Advent Reconciliation

November 24, 2010
- Art Trip to the ROM - L. Zawadzka

November 25, 2010 -
Civics Field Trip - D. Corazza, M. Bozzo, L. Munoz

NOVEMBER 25, 2010
- CATHOLIC SCHOOL COUNCIL MEETING
- CONCERT MISSIONARIES OF THE POOR

November 28, 2010 - 1st Sunday of Advent

Week 11 - Parent/Teacher Interviews on Thursday

2010-11-16T09:29:00.002-05:00

Make sure you use your appointment sheets and confirm your appointment times with your teachers. Appointments must be made!

Why? If you drop in without an appointment time you and your parents might be disappointed because if that teacher is fully booked, they will not have time to see you. Confirm your appointments early to ensure you get your desired times.

PARENT TEACHER INTERVIEWS - NOVEMBER 18, 2010
5:30 - 9 pm.

November 18, 2010
- Grade 11 Religion Retreat
- Grade 11 Fitness Field Trip
- College Panel Period 1

November 1 - 19, 2010 - Markham Stouffville Fundraiser
* please bring $$ to add to your homeroom donations.

November 19, 2010 - FMM SEMI-FORMAL

Have a great week!

Week 10 - Canadian Vererans' Week

2010-11-09T09:21:00.004-05:00

Thursday is Remembrance Day. We will remember the sacrifices of our Canadian soldiers (past and present) here at the school with a few activities. Postcards for Peace, a PA Observance, Guest Speakers, Displays in the Foyer, Powerpoint displays on the TV monitors (Cafeterian and Foyer), and a Choir Performance.

Visit here for more details on Veterans' Week.

Also, on Thursday, Mid Term Report Cards will be distributed. So expect report cards to arrive home with the students that day. Parent/teacher interview appointment sheets are included with the reports. Please make use of them and book your appointment early to make sure you get your preferred interview times.

The ELL World Religion class will be going on retreat to Good Shepherd Refuge tomorrow. They are to be in civies for the day.

Friday is a PA Day, so there will be no classes for our students. Classes resume on Monday.

Have a great week! And wear a poppy!

Week 9 - MidTerm Reporting Week

2010-11-01T11:34:00.002-04:00

It is an important week here at FMM.

All students should be busy studying for important tests and completing assignments for the Midterm Report Card. So NO student should be coming home and saying that they have no homework. Actually, this excuse should never be given since all students can always review material covered in class to make exam preparation much easier.

Important things to note this week:

Today is Photo Retake Day in the Library Seminar Room.

Wednesday - Grade 9 Take Your Kids to Work Day
- All grade 9's will be out of school and in the workplace for this valuable learning experience. Make sure to get your permission forms in tomorrow if you have not done so already.

Have a great week!

Week 8 - Halloween Week at FMM

2010-10-25T12:20:00.003-04:00

Every day this week, students and staff at Father McGivney are encouraged to bring in non-perishable food items to their first period home room classes. All food will be collected and donated to the Markham Food Bank.

On Friday ONLY, students may wear a costume (no masks) and donate a canned food item OR come in school uniform. Please do donate a food item if you still come to school in your uniform. Also, on Friday, in Lunch A and C, there will be the Halloween Howl in the Cafeteria, along with a Halloween Haunt in the Gym.

Next week will be busy:
Photo Retake Day is on Monday November 1st, Wednesday November 3rd is Take Our Kids to Work Day, and during the entire week students will be writing important tests and completing assignments for their Mid-Term marks.

Mid-Term Report Cards will be distributed on Thursday November 11th (Remembrance Day), and Parent-Teacher Interviews will occur on Thursday November 18.

Remember that Friday November 12th is a PA Day.

Have a great week!

Week 7 Update

2010-10-20T13:27:00.002-04:00

There is lots of things going on here at FMM.

Here are a few things to be aware of:

1. Math Enrichment Classes begin next week Monday for Grade 9's. All are encouraged to attend whether they have Math this semester for not. These classes will prepare students for the EQAO test in January and then in June for second semester Math students.

2. October 29 - Halloween Howl. Details to come. We are collecting non-perishable goods for the less fortunate as part of the Halloween celebrtions so please participate and bring in an item or two.

3. Our ELL article for the next FMM newsletter.

FMM has had a healthy intake of new English Language Learners and our numbers are at approximately seventy three with nineteen sections and five teachers. These include Ms. Selvakumar, Ms. Corazza, Ms. Kerilla, Mr. Hospedales and Ms. Spicer.

The ELL students have settled nicely into their classes after adjusting timetables to ensure that each student is most suited and comfortable in her/his courses; a big thank you to Guidance especially Ms. Castriota councillor for ELL students. The ELL centre has improved the computer lab, and purchased five new computers with slim screens. The SMART Board is used everyday, and the members of the ELL Department are pleased with the technological progress.

This year Mrs. Westmaas is the Administrator overseeing the ELL portfolio. Gateway To McGivney was a tremendous success with the Spiritual Nature Walk through Edwards Gardens. Also the feedback session for the excellent NOW Program (Newcomers Orientation Week) went off without a hitch. The FMM Settlement worker Subing Ng has returned to school to finish her degree in Social work. Her farewell party organized by ELL students was most touching, and we wish Subing good luck as we await her return. Welcome to Carmen Chen the new settlement worker for FMM.

Have a great week!

Week 6 - Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-10-13T19:08:00.004-04:00

We hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving with your families.
But now we are right back to the hard work.

Remember that tomorrow is Awards Night at Father McGivney. It all begins at 7 pm. Congratulations to all our award winners, especially our ELL students. If you won an award, make sure you do come out to celebrate your achievements.

Today, our Crosscountry team participated at the Sacred Heart XC Meet in preparation for the YRAA Championships next week. Check out the video below to get a glimpse of what happened today.

http://www.runnerspace.com/video.php?do=view&video_id=32825#ooid=lpdmZyMToLCHZUByO8ibHJl4Q05BWyxi

The team website is here.

Have a great week!

Week 5 - Goodbye Subing!

2010-10-07T11:02:00.002-04:00

It is a sad week here at FMM.

In the ELL Department, we had to say goodbye to Subing Ning our Settlement Worker. Subing did great work here at FMM but is returning to school. Best of luck in your future plans Subing.

Also, the school as a whole mourns the loss of Kelvin Wong. Kelvin touched the lives of many here at FMM and he will be missed. Please keep Kelvin and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

Mr. Hospedales and a few Grade 9 ELL students returned today from a fabulous 3 day Grade 9 Orientation Trip/Retreat at Muskoka Woods. Everyone established new friendships and memories that will last a lifetime.

Remember that Thanksgiving is on Monday and classes will resume on Tuesday.

Have a great rest of the week and Thanksgiving Weekend.

Week 4 - The end to a busy month

2010-09-30T21:37:00.002-04:00

It was a very busy September at Father McGivney and it will be more of the same in October.

Next week (October 4-6) the Grade 9's will be going to Muskoka Woods for an excellent 3 days of orientation, comradery, and fun. Mr. Hospedales will be there to provide extra support to Grade 9 ELL students if they need it. This is the third year for this outing at Muskoka Woods, it will be sure to be another memorable and valuable experience for all.

There are many activities planned for October, we will let you know about them soon.

Have a great weekend and study hard!

Week 3 at FMM

2010-09-22T13:59:00.002-04:00

Once again we have a busy but short week.

Tomorrow the ELL students will be going to Gateway to McGivney at St. Bonaventure's Parish Centre.

Any permission forms and the $15 must be submitted tomorrow prior to 8:30am.

Remember that Friday is a PA day. There will be no classes. Classes resume Monday September 27.

Have a great rest of the week.

Welcome to the 2010-2011 school year!

2010-09-14T11:32:00.004-04:00

It has been really busy in the ELL Department, thus the late greeting welcoming you all back to another year at Father McGivney.

Welcome to all of our new students to FMM. If you have not done so already, please stop by Room 327 and say hello to Miss Spicer or Mr. Hospedales.

This Thursday September 16 at 7 pm here at Father McGivney, we will be hosting an information session for all parents, guardians, and parents of ELL students.

This is your chance to meet the ELL teachers, the Principal (Mrs. Westmaas), and to find out more about our ELL program.

See you then. Have a great week!

Have a Safe Summer!

2010-06-24T13:45:00.003-04:00

Exams will finish tomorrow.
Report cards will be mailed to your homes.

Best wishes to all of our graduates.
Have a safe and restful summer!
See you all in September.

Exams Have Started

2010-06-16T17:37:00.005-04:00

Many in-class exams have started already, so all students should be very busy studying, or finishing any final assignments.

Since the ESL Room 327 will be very busy with students writing exams, all students are reminded that they must find somewhere else to study or to spend their lunch/study periods during the day. We must maintain quiet and minimize distractions for all students writing exams.

The official last day of class is Monday June 21st. Yes, it is still a regular school day are you are expected to be in class. The formal exam period begins Tuesday June 22nd.

Don't forget that the Gr. 12 Drama production - 12 Angry Jurors, can be viewed for only 2 more days. Get your tickets.

Best of Luck in your Exams.

Student Appreciation

2010-06-08T12:37:00.004-04:00

Thursday is Student Appreciation Day.

Award winners must be at school by 8 am to get seated in the gymnasium.

The Carnival and BBQ starts at 12 noon. Let's hope for some wonderful weather.
If it does rain, all the fun and games will occur in the gym instead of on the field.

For our athletes, the Athletic Banquet will occur this Friday at 5:30 pm at the Rouge Community Centre.

All athletes should have picked up their tickets already.

Remember, In-Class Exams begin next week. So start reviewing.

Have a great week.

Best Buddies Week

2010-05-31T15:34:00.002-04:00

It is Best Buddies Week At FMM.
Make sure to listen to announcements about daily activities and to visit the booth in the main foyer during A and C lunch.

Wednesday - Tuck Shop (Atrium).
Thursday - Bingo Buddies in the Tuck Shop in Room 216.
Friday - 50 cents Tuck Shop Sale (Room 216)

Thursday June 3 - Closing Liturgy

Friday June 4 - Arts Banquet at Crystal Fountain

Have a great week!

A short but busy week ahead

2010-05-25T08:04:00.001-04:00

Welcome back!
We hope you all had a great Victoria Day weekend.

There is only 4 days of class left this week, actually only 3, if you consider that the ELL's will be heading off to our annual Canada's Wonderland Trip this Friday.

Students are reminded to be at school for the regular 8:27am start time on Friday. They are to check in with their homeroom class for attendance, leave class at 9:05 am, and then meet in the Cafeteria in order gather and get ready to board onto the buses.

Bus lists are posted in Room 327.

Student Council Elections are taking place this week, and on Friday Grade 9 Peer Mentors will be announced.

Have a great week!

Looking Ahead

2010-05-10T08:47:00.002-04:00

This week is OSAID Week. Be prepared for many presentations and activities regarding the prevention of impaired driving. Have a great week!

Make sure to get your money and permission forms for the Canada's Wonderland trip in to Mr. Hospedales as soon as possible.

May 11, 2010 - Period 1 & 2 - Optional Presentation for Accident Awareness - Gr. 9 or 11
May 12, 2010 - PERIOD 1 - Gr. 10 & 12 MADD Assembly

May 14, 2010 - SENIOR PROM

May 17 - 21, 2010 - INTERNATIONAL WEEK

May 17, 2010 - Peer Mentor Training (after school)

May 19, 2010 - Peer Mentorship Session (Gr. 9 Rookie Rumble)

May 20, 2010 - INTERNATIONAL LIVE AID @ 7:00 p.m.

May 21, 2010 - Spring Fling 5 km Run

May 24, 2010 - VICTORIA DAY

May 25 - 28, 2010 - Student Council Elections
May 27, 2010 - Catholic School Council Meeting

May 28, 2010 - ELL Trip of Canada's Wonderland
May 28, 2010 - Selection and announcement of grade 9 Peer Mentors

June 3, 2010 - Closing Liturgy

June 4, 2010 - Arts Banquet

June 7 & 8, 2010 - EQAO Math Testing - Gr. 9

June 10, 2010 - Student Appreciation Day

June 11, 2010 - Athletic Banquet

June 14 - 18, 2010 - In class exams

June 15 & 16, 2010 - Review for Senior Students

June 17 & 18, 2010 - Gr. 12 Drama Performance

June 17 & 18, 2010 - Review for Gr. 9 & 10

June 21 - 25, 2010 - Formal Exams

June 29, 2010 - Graduation Liturgy/Graduation

Health Week at FMM

2010-05-03T15:17:00.002-04:00

SAC is organizing a lot of activities this week to promote good health among the students. Pay attention to the announcements for all the activities. SAC will also visit homerooms every day this week.

On Thursday Grade 12 students will be called together to take a group Grad photo. All grade 12 students must pay attention to the announcements so that they do not miss the call down during period 2.

Also on Thursday, at 4 pm there will be the Staff and Student Art Show.

The Marketing Fair is also taking place this week (May 3-7). Please feel free to show your support to the many student booths and displays.

Have a great week!

Bullying Awareness Week

2010-04-26T08:10:00.001-04:00

It was great meeting all the parents and guardians last week during the Parent/Teacher Interview Night. Please feel free to maintain contact will your child's teachers until the end of the semester. The phone number at the school is 905 472 4961.

Here is a preview of what will happen during the next few weeks.

April, 26 - 30, 2010 - BULLYING AWARENESS WEEK

April 27 - 28, 2010 - Bullying Awareness presentations to Gr. 9 Religion classes

April 29, 2010 - PERIOD 1 - PEER MENTORSHIP - Gr. 9's to attend Think Day Presentation

May 3 - 6, 2010 - HEALTH WEEK
CLASS VISITS: Gr. 9 Mon. May 3, 2010 - Period 4
Gr. 10 Tues. May 4, 2010 - Period 4
Gr. 11 Wed. May 5, 2010 - Period 4
Gr. 12 Thurs. May 6, 2010 - Period 4

May 3 - 7, 2010 - MARKETING FAIR, SLAM Training

May 9, 2010 - MOTHER'S DAY

May 10 - 14, 2010 - OSAID WEEK

May 11, 2010 - Period 1 & 2 - Optional Presentation for Accident Awareness - Gr. 9 or 11

May 12, 2010 - PERIOD 1 - Gr. 10 & 12 MADD assembly in the caf. (we may have to extend period 1 by 10 minutes)

May 14, 2010 - SENIOR PROM

May 17 - 21 - INTERNATIONAL WEEK

May 17, 2010 - Peer Mentor Training (after school)

May 19, 2010 - Peer Mentorship Session (Gr. 9 Rookie Rumble)

May 20, 2010 - INTERNATIONAL LIVE AID (evening)

May 21, 2010 - Spring Fling 5 km Run

May 24, 2010 - VICTORIA DAY

May 25 - 28, 2010 - Student Council Elections

May 27, 2010 - Catholic School Council Meeting

May 28, 2010 - Selection of grade 9 Peer Mentors (announced)

Parent/Teacher Interviews Tomorrow

2010-04-21T13:38:00.003-04:00

Starting at 5:30 pm tomorrow, Parent/Teacher Interviews will occur in the school gymnasium. Teachers will be listed in alphabetical order.

Interviews will go until 8:30 pm.

We will have interpreters on site but please do make a formal appointment time with your child's teacher and indicate if you will need an interpreter - along with what language you speak.

We look forward to seeing you there.

Tomorrow is also Earth Day!
Even though we should be environmentally responsible every day, let's make a special effort to do so tomorrow.

http://www.earthday.org/earthday2010

April 12-16

2010-04-12T15:39:00.002-04:00

What is going on this week?
First of all it is Arts Week.

Tuesday April 13
Parent Information Night for IB (Current Grade 9 students) - 6:30 pm

Wednesday April 14
Parent Information Night for IB (Current Grade 8 students) - 6:30 pm

Thursday April 15
Mid-term Report Cards are distributed at the end of the day.
Arts Night - 7 pm at the school

OSSLT Today

2010-04-08T10:36:00.002-04:00

As you can imagine, things have been very busy this week.

Right now, students are writing the OSSLT.

We wish them the best of luck.

Our modified school day (for all grades) begins at 12 noon with period 1.

Teachers submitted their Mid-term course marks today and the Mid-Term Report Cards will be distributed on Thursday April 15.

Remember that Parent/Teacher Interviews will occur on Thursday April 22.

Have a great test of the week.

Holy Week

2010-03-30T09:12:00.002-04:00

You are reminded that with this being Holy Week, there are a few dates to be mindful of.

There are no classes this Friday April 2nd due to Good Friday. And there are no classes on Monday April 5th due to Easter Monday.

When we return to classes next week, we will celebrate an Easter Liturgy.

More important dates to be aware of.

April 7 - Waterloo Math Contest

April 8 - ***** OSSLT ******

April 15 - Report Card Distribution

April 15 - Arts Night

April 22 - Parent Teacher Interviews

Welcome Back from the March Break!

2010-03-23T09:07:00.002-04:00

Students, there will now be a solid charge ahead until June, so make sure to stay up to date with your homework, assignments, and to regularly review your work. Final exams will be here before you realize.

Next week is Holy Week. So remember that Good Friday is next Friday April 2nd, and Monday April 5th is Easter Monday. There will be no classes on those days.

Later that second week in April, will be the OSSLT (Literacy Test) on Thursday April 8. The afterschool classes have already resumed (yesterday).

Of note this week is the iGod 24 Hour Technology and Food Famine on Friday and Saturday. All participating students and staff will be at FMM and will go without food or technology for 24 hours. We also welcome a group of Mexican exchange students to the school this week.

Have a great week!

Week 6 - Semester 2

2010-03-10T11:02:00.002-05:00

Only a few more days until the March Break.
Yes, there is a break coming but work still needs to be done.

Upon your return, Mid-Term marks will soon need to be submitted by your teachers, and of course Mid-Term Report Card, and Parent/Teacher interview night.

Tomorrow, we will have our annual McGivney Memorial Mass. It will be a wonderful celebration and a great way to kickstart our Spring Break.

Remember to turn your clocks ahead by 1 hour on Sunday.

Have a great rest of the week and a safe and restful break. Classes resume on Monday March 22.

For Mr. Hospedales' Grade 10 Science class, here is the link to the online version of the textbook.

http://www.mynelsonscience.com/perspectives/grade10/organizer/

Week 5 - Semester 2 --- Way to go Canada!

2010-03-01T09:42:00.003-05:00

Every day is a great day to be Canadian, but after the Winter Olympics maybe today is even a greater day. What a wonderful closing ceremony last night, and 14 gold medals - the most ever!

Congratulations to all Team Canada athletes, and to everyone in this country who showed their spirit and pride in this great nation.

Do what is going on this week?

Mon. March 1st - OSSLT Prep. Session #3

Wed. March 3rd - BASKETBALL BUY OUT PERIOD 4

Wed. March 3nd - OSSLT Prep. Session #4

Thurs. March 4th - Grade 11 - ESL World Religions Retreat at Good Shepherd

Have a Great Week!

Week 4 - Semester 2

2010-02-22T12:52:00.002-05:00

It might be hard to believe but almost one month has already passed by in this semester. This means that mid-term evaluations will be coming soon since the March Break will soon creep up on us too.

Today the OSSLT Prep classes begin after school from 2:45-4pm. All grade 10 students must attend.

Course Selection Form and Fees ($75 cash or money order) are due on the following dates:

Monday February 22 - Grade 9
Tuesday February 23 - Grade 10
Wednesday February 24 - Grade 11
Thursday February 25 - Grade 12

This must be submitted to secure your courses for next year.

Some of our students will be taking part in the Waterloo Math Contest on Friday (8:32-9:47) in the Upper Lecture Hall. Best of luck to all of them!

Have a great week!
Go Canada!

Week 3 - Semester 2

2010-02-16T09:32:00.003-05:00

We hope you all had a wonderful Family Day and of course to all our Chinese students and families - Kung Hei Fat Choy!

But now its back to work.

Here are a few things to take note of this week:

Wed. Feb. 17 - Distribution of Ashes - Period 1

Thurs. Feb. 18 - Parent Information Evening (7pm) for Course Selection

Have a great week and Go Canada!!

Week 2 - Second Semester 2010

2010-02-09T09:23:00.002-05:00

The last day for Semester 2 timetable changes was yesterday. There should not be any more issues with your schedule. If so, see Ms. Spicer to see if anything can be done.

Tonight the school will be hosting an OSSLT Parent Meeting. Parents and guardians can find out more about the literacy test and what we plan to do to ensure everyone is successful.

Remember that it is Family Day on Monday February 15th. There is no classes that day.

Happy Valentine's Day

and Have a great week!

Welcome to Semester 2

2010-02-04T11:56:00.002-05:00

Welcome back!
We hope you are enjoying your new courses.

If you have any timetable problems, make sure to see Miss Spicer in Room 327.
The last day to make changes is February 8th.

Report Cards will be distributed tomorrow during last period.

Have a great rest of the week.

Semester 2 Starts Tuesday

2010-01-29T10:19:00.005-05:00

We hope you all performed to the best of your ability on your exams.

Semester 2 resumes on Tuesday February 2nd.

See you all then but here is a little something to consider to make this coming semester the best ever.

Exams Start Today!

2010-01-18T11:39:00.003-05:00

All classes will have exams occurring within the next 2 weeks.

Make sure you review and study carefully to ensure your success.

Also, ensure you have submitted all assignments to your teachers.

It is quite ridiculous to have any incomplete assignments at this point in the year.

Study hard and best of luck.

By the way, a big thank you to everyone you donated to the help Haiti. So far the school has raised $4350. We are not done yet so please keep donating, even if it is just your spare change.

Exams Start Next Week

2010-01-12T12:21:00.002-05:00

Students, make sure to be on top of your CPT deadlines, and exam preparations.

In class exams start on Monday January 18, while formal exams begin on Thursday January 21 for some grade 11 and grade 12 courses.

The last day of class is on Friday January 22.

ELL Students will write their exams in Room 327 (if you got your requests in on time).

Make sure you are on time, in uniform, and that you have your course textbooks.

Have a great week!

Welcome to 2010!

2010-01-04T09:52:00.003-05:00

Welcome back everyone!

However, there is no time to relax.

In class exams begin on Monday January 18th, and the last days of class for semester 1 is Friday January 22nd.

Formal exams begin on Thursday January 21 st.

Make sure to fill in your sheets to be able to write your FORMAL exams in the ESL Room. This is not for In class exams.

Check your timetables to make sure you have the correct course code, section, and teacher's name.

ELL Christmas Lunch Tomorrow

2009-12-15T14:26:00.003-05:00

Make sure to bring your food to room 327 first thing in the morning.
We will heat everything up and have it ready to serve at the beginning of period 3.

The lunch will take place during period 3, followed by Christmas activities which will carry through to the end of period 4.

All teachers have been notified.

Bring your Christmas spirit tomorrow to have some fun.

Dec. 7 - 11

2009-12-08T10:37:00.002-05:00

Tonight at 7 pm, we will be holding our Grade 8 Parent Information Night. Please attend to get all the information that you may need about our great school.

We will be celebrating our Advent Liturgy on Wednesday.

On Thursday, FMM is hosting a Senior Boys Basketball Tournament. All FMM students are invited to participate in the $1 period 2 buyout to raise money for the team and for the Ayni Foundation.

There will also be a Christmas Concert on Thursday night at 730 pm.

Don't forget to sign up to bring food for the ELL Christmas Lunch on Thurday December 17. See Ms. Spicer to inform her about what you are bringing.

Have a great week.

PA Day this Friday!

2009-11-30T13:02:00.003-05:00

Remember there is a PA Day this Friday.
The teachers will be busy but students will not have classes.

From Tuesday to Thursday, FMM's Marketing Students will be involved in a Marketing Fair during all lunches.

Our ESL Christmas Lunch will take place on Thursday December 17.
Please sign up to bring some tasty dishes/treats from your country/culture.

Have a great week!

Week of Nov. 23-27

2009-11-23T09:03:00.002-05:00

Here is what is going on this week that may affect or will be of interest to our students:

1. Gr. 12 University Application Process Info Assembly @ 8:30 am (Monday & Tuesday)

2. Social Science Field Trip to Kensington Market (Tuesday)

3. Math Field Trip to Markville & ROM Trip (Thursday)

4. Student Government Talent Show @ 6:30 pm (Thursday)

5. YCDSB Board ELL Staff @ FMM to interview ELL students

6. Santa Claus Parade - Markham Village (Saturday)

Have a Great Week!

Week of November 16-20

2009-11-16T11:59:00.002-05:00

It was great meeting many of your parents and guardians at the Parent/Teacher interviews last week. However, please feel free to contact teachers at any time whenever you have questions or concerns.

What is going on this week?

1. Mr Hospedales' World Religion's Class is going on retreat this Thursday Nov. 19th to the Good Shepherd Refuge and the Scott Mission.

2. There are a number of Science and Physical Education trips.

3. Nov. 19 @ 630pm Gr. 11 Performance Dinner Theatre

4. Nov. 19 @ 7pm - School Council Meeting

5. Nov. 20 @ 6pm - Semi Formal at Shangri-La

Lest We Forget

2009-11-10T15:28:00.003-05:00

We have a number of Remembrance Day Activities scheduled to take place tomorrow.

Let us remember and appreciate those that have fought or are fighting for this great country.

Mid Term Reports Tomorrow

2009-11-05T10:35:00.002-05:00

Remember that the Mid Term Report Cards will be given to students during 4th period tomorrow.

Students will be called to return to their home room to collect them.

Parent/Guardians - please make your parent/teacher interview appointments as soon as possible. The appointment sheet is included with the report card.

Report Cards this Friday!

2009-11-02T10:31:00.018-05:00

Mid-term report cards will be distributed to students this coming Friday.

Please fill out your Parent/Teacher Interview Appointment forms and students will approach their teachers to confirm the appointment time.

Interpreters are available. Please let us know if you need one.

Parent/Teacher Interview Night is on Thursday November 12.

As promised, here are some more pictures from the recent ESL World Religions trip to the International Taoist Tai Chi Centre in Orangeville.

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Gualberto

2009-10-30T14:17:00.002-04:00

More to come next week!

Happy Halloween & 2 Important Announcements

2009-10-27T10:43:00.005-04:00

With Halloween taking place this weekend, we have a busy week of activities here at FMM put on by Student Council, add to that, teachers will submit Mid-term marks to the office by Friday morning.

Here are a few very important announcements:

1. Missionaries of the Poor (Kingston, Jamaica)

FMM has had a long relationship with the Missionaries of the Poor and they are back again asking for our support. Fr. Ho Lung and the Friends of the Poor are in Toronto with a brand new musical show that is being held Sat. Oct 31st and Sun. Nov 1st at Ryerson Theatre, Toronto.

FMM has 500 student tickets which will be offered for sale for the rest of the week at less than half of the cost. Students can purchase tickets to attend this fantastic event for $10 with an additional $5 to take a bus from the school and back.

The show has always received great reviews and will appeal to students because it is presented using upbeat reggae songs and vibrant performances. All proceeds from the event will go towards helping the Missionaries develop the 'Holy Innocents' Center' in Kingston that offers a wide spectrum of support to pregnant women including spiritual, medical and financial assistance. They also take in abandoned newborns and provide counselling for crisis pregnancies. The missionaries also use the center to protect the lives of the unborn.

Please help the missions who run solely on charitable donations. They have come to us because they know they can depend on the generous staff and students at FMM. They were truly appreciative of the rice drive that the staff contributed to last year and are hoping that they can count on us again.

2. Best Buddies

Please read below. It will be a wonderful experience for all who get involved.

The Special Education Department is excited to introduce a new initiative to begin at McGivney this school year! Best Buddies is a national charitable organization dedicated to enhancing our school communities through one-to-one friendships between individuals with intellectual disabilities and students. The goal of this friendship program is to offer all of our students the opportunity to develop relationships with peers by participating in after-school social events such as going to the movies, eating out at a restaurant or simply talking over coffee.

This is an invaluable opportunity for those who wish to be involved, as we believe the rewards are endless. If interested, please attend the information session on Monday November 2nd, 2009 @ 2:45pm, Room 207.

We are expecting a representative from Best Buddies Canada to lead the information night. Interviews will follow the same week and once all successful candidates are chosen and paired with a student, a new chapter will unfold at McGivney! If you have any questions or concerns, please contact , Mrs. Hallman-Roth or Mrs. Ng at any time.

Some pictures from Gateway to McGivney

2009-10-22T14:48:00.021-04:00

This happened a few weeks ago, but it is never too late to post pictures from that great day.
Enjoy!

FMM XC Team @ YRAA's

2009-10-21T23:38:00.012-04:00

The Cross-country competed at the YRAA Championships today.
Here are a few pics. The results can be found here http://www.trackdatabase.com/

Check out our own Ivan "the superstar".

Congratulations to all! Thanks for a great season.

Beautiful Weather

2009-10-20T15:32:00.003-04:00

It is starting to warm up again so you better take advantage of the outdoors. It will not be long now until the colder weather arrives.

Mr. Hospedales and the Crosscountry Team will be out in the great weather tomorrow at the YRAA Crosscountry Championships. Best of luck to all team members! Pictures to follow.

Mid-term report cards will be coming soon - November 6, so students need to take things a bit more seriously over the next few weeks.

Parent-teacher interviews are on November 12.

Have a great week!

2009-10-15T17:04:00.002-04:00

We hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Check out this great poem and enjoy the rest of the week.

You Have Two Voices
By Nancy Prasad

You have two voices when you speak

in English or your mother tongue.

When you speak the way your people spoke

the words don’t hesitate but flow

like rivers, like rapids, like oceans of sound,

and your hands move like birds through the air.

But then you take a stranger’s voice

When you speak in your new tongue.

Each word is a stone dropped in a pool.

I watch the ripples and wait for more

You search in vain for other stones to throw.

They are heavy. Your hands hang down.

You have two voices when you speak:

I have two ears for hearing.

Speak to me again in your mother tongue.

What does it matter how little I understand

when the words pour out like music

and your face glows like a flame.

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-10-09T10:33:00.002-04:00

It has been another busy week at FMM.

Mr. Hospedales was away at the Grade 9 Retreat at Muskoka Woods from Monday to Wednesday. A few ESL students went on the trip and they along with the other 170 plus grade 9 students had a wonderful time despite the rainy weather.

The ESL Department with soon organize a field trip to visit the CICS Immigrant Youth Centre at Highway 7 and McCowan (beside Harvey's). Stay tuned. But please feel free to drop in for a visit there anytime.

Have a great Thanksgiving Weekend with your families, we will see you on Tuesday.

Only 12 Gateway to McGivney Spots Left

2009-09-28T10:16:00.002-04:00

Get your $10 and signed permission forms to Mr. Hospedales.
There are only 12 spots left for the trip this Thursday.

Have a great week!

Gateway to McGivney

2009-09-22T10:46:00.003-04:00

Welcome back to another week!

Our annual Gateway to McGivney trip is all set to go.

It will be at Shadow Lake (no last minute changes this year) on Thursday October 1.

The cost is $10 (for the bus, food, and facility).

Make sure to see Miss Spicer or Mr Hospedales for permission forms.

This is a mandatory trip for all ESL students.

Your $10 fee and signed permission forms must be in to Spicer or Hospedales by Monday September 28 at the latest.

Have a great week!

Another Busy Week

2009-09-18T10:55:00.001-04:00

Yes, this week zoomed by.
It is still very busy around here finalizing timetables, etc.

Teachers, please do pay us a visit in the ESL Centre if you have any concerns.

Students are reminded of a few things:

1. There will be no more eating of lunch in room 327. The room will be open to computer use (assignments) and test writing only.

2. Picture day is this coming Tuessday September 22.

3. E3 - this club is starting soon. If interested helping or being a leader. See Mr. Hospedales.

4. The Cross-country team has started practices. If you want to join, meet us at the track any day after school at 2:45pm.

Have a great weekend.

Welcome Back!

2009-09-03T10:28:00.002-04:00

Welcome back to the start of the new 2009-2010 school year!
The first week will be busy as usual.
Make sure to see Ms. Spicer or Mr Hospedales if you have any scheduling problems.

Stay tuned for more announcements.

Great to see you all back.
We welcome all new faces as well.

Last Day of Classes

2009-06-17T12:05:00.002-04:00

The last day of class is finally here, but that does not mean that the work is over.
Many of you still have final exams to complete and assignments to submit.
Make sure to study hard to ensure you achieve the best that you can.

Exams start bright and early Thursday morning, starting at 9am.
Check your exam schedule to make sure you are here on the correct day and time.
All ESL students will write their exams in Room 327.

Make sure you are here on time and in full uniform.

Good luck on your exams and have a great summer!