A Message from your Administrators
Dear Langstaff Families and Community Partners:
Hope your Halloween was spooktacular!!
Last week, we had an amazing Parent/Guardian-Teacher Interview Night. We loved seeing so many parents in the building. It was so nice to see many Parent/Guardian-Teacher conversations taking place. We really like our "Meet & Greet" format and we were so glad that you do as well.
Today, we celebrated Halloween at school. We loved seeing so many great costumes, and we know the students really enjoyed the Halloween Fashion Show that took place during the lunch hour. As well, the students loved looking for the "Golden Tickets" and those who found the Golden Tickets were very happy to receive a Halloween treat.
On November 5th, we have a very exciting event taking place. Our grade 9 students will be taking part in the annual Take Your Kids to Work Day. All grade 9 students will be attending a workplace of interest to them of a parent or family member. This day at work can occur in person or virtually. Important forms have been sent home electronically to all grade 9 students and families. There will be no Grade 9 classes at LSS on this day. Parents/Guardians of Grade 9 students, please make sure that you have completed the permission form.
Also, on this day we are having future Langstaff Bears, the grade 8 students, who will be participating in a visit to Langstaff SS. All grade 8s will participate in visiting classes, meeting with Guidance, Admin, and Student Council, and each grade 8 student will receive a little LSS swag to help them feel more connected to their future high school. Then, on the evening of November 6th we will be hosting our Grade 8 Open House for all future Langstaff Bears. We are so excited to be able, once again, to have our future LSS families join us, to hear about High School, meet our wonderful staff, and check out our building and facilities.
We are in the long stretch until Winter Break, and we look forward to making it filled with good spirit and learning.
Ms. S. Epstein
Principal
School News
This message is for Grade 9 Parents/Guardians only
Grade 9 Take Your Kids to Work Day on Wednesday, November 5, 2025
Attention Grade 9 Parents/Guardians.
An email was sent to you as parents/guardians of Grade 9s to complete a Google Form regarding Grade 9 Take Your Kids to Work Day on Wednesday, November 5, 2025. We urge all parents/guardians of Grade 9 to respond by completing this Google Form as soon as possible. Starting on Monday, November 3, 2025, each Grade 9 family who hasn’t responded will need to be called, as this info must be correct as of the end of day on Tuesday, November 4, 2025.
Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT)
The OSSLT is a graduation requirement for students working towards their Ontario Secondary School Diploma. The OSSLT is based on expectations for all subjects that address reading and writing up to the end of Grade 9. Students in Grade 10 or older who have not earned their literacy requirement are eligible to write the test. This year's OSSLT will take place on Thursday, November 27. The first book will be written at 8:25 am and the second book will be written at 11:55 am.
More information will be shared with students who are writing the test.
School Start-Up Forms – Completing Online
Dear Families,
If you have not yet completed the important ONLINE School Start-Up Permission form, please take a moment this weekend to do so.
Here is the link: https://startupforms.yrdsb.ca/
Thank you.
Attendance Reminder
Parents/Guardians are reminded to report all absences and/or late notices to the Attendance Office
As soon as possible by calling: 905-889-6266 extension 1:
OR
email: langstaff.ss.attendance@yrdsb.ca
Should your student have a planned absence for 3 or more days, an Extended Absence Form must be signed by each subject teacher, parent/guardian, and the Vice-Principal before leaving for the absence; Extended Absence Forms are available at the Main Office.
Allergies/Medical Conditions
If your child has a serious life-threatening allergy or medical condition, please let the Main Office know immediately and complete the appropriate medical forms.
There are students and staff members in our school who have life-threatening allergies to nuts and other allergens. If they smell or come into contact with these foods, they may have an anaphylactic reaction.
To help create an allergen-safe environment, do not bring nuts or nut products to school.
Please notify the school if your child has one of the following medical conditions:
- Anaphylaxis - Anaphylaxis Health Care Plan
- Asthma - Asthma Health Care Plan
- Diabetes - Diabetes Health Care Plan
- Epilepsy / Seizure Disorder - Epilepsy Seizure Disorder
- Health Care (Other) - Health Care Plan (Other)
In addition to completing forms, please provide any life-saving medication your child may require at school (e.g., EpiPen, Inhaler/Puffer, etc.)
Thank you for your cooperation in helping ensure a safe and supportive environment for all students and staff.
School Bell Times
Period | Time |
|---|---|
Period 1 | 8:25 a.m. - 9:40 a.m. |
Period 2 | 9:45 a.m. - 11:05 a.m |
Lunch | 11:10 a.m. - 11:50 a.m. |
Period 3 | 11:55 a.m. - 1:10 p.m. |
Period 4 | 1:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. |
Age of Majority Consent
Once a student turns 18, it becomes more complicated for the School/Teacher to reach out and connect with you, either with specific concerns or to share information in general. In order for the school to maintain contact, your adult child (i.e., after their 18th birthday) must sign and return the Age Majority Consent Form. This form can be obtained from the Main Office.
For any student who has not submitted the form after their 18th birthday, contact between school and home ceases. If your child is turning 18 this school year, please discuss with them what will happen when they turn 18.
If you have any questions, please connect with the Main Office.
Communication with Home
At LSS we offer several methods of communication to share information on a regular basis with our parents’ and guardians’ homes. A calendar of school events and our bi-weekly news bulletins are posted on our school website.
We also provide daily attendance reports to parents and guardians every day. In order to provide you with up-to-date attendance reports and other information, we request that all parents and guardians submit current email addresses; these can be updated by sending your email address to: langstaff.ss@yrdsb.ca
Student Parking
Langstaff SS has a student-designated parking lot, which is on the west side of the school. To park there, students must come to the main office and pick up a student parking form and have it filled out and signed by their parent/guardian.
School Activity Fee
We are thrilled to expand student clubs, sports, and events this year!
To help make it happen, we encourage families to support through the $40 Student Activity Fee.
Payments can be made by going to School Cash Online, here is the link: https://yrdsb.schoolcashonline.com/
To join ANY CLUB or SPORTS TEAM you MUST pay the $40 Student Activity Fee
You will also receive a:
Discount at School events (Dances, Semi-Formal & Prom)
Discount on Yearbook
If you DO NOT pay the $40 Student Activity Fee, you CANNOT join a CLUB or be on a SPORTS TEAM and you MUST pay:
FULL price at School events (Dances, Semi-Formal & Prom)
FULL price for Yearbook
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
Student Council
Langstaff’s Student Council, or STUCO, is excited to be back in action this school year. We have a lot of activities planned throughout the school year, such as:
· Halloween pumpkin carving competition
· Global Bears orientation
· Holiday Candy Grams
· Battle of the Bands
· Fundraiser events
· Valentine's Serenades
· International Food Festival
· And many more!
You can keep up to date with STUCO news and upcoming events via our Instagram: @yrdsb.schools also on: (@langstaffstuco)
Guidance News
Your Guidance Department Mission Statement
Support and promote students' interpersonal development, and career development in order to help them develop resilience and realize their potential (success) as individuals and as valuable members of society.
-Ontario School Counsellors' Association
Accessing Your Guidance Team
Contact Information: Please note the Guidance Counselors below
| Staff Member and Contact Information | Staff Member and Contact Information | Staff Member and Contact Information |
|---|---|---|
Ms. R. Chidiac Alpha: A-R |
Mrs. L. Rico Guidance Secretary
| Ms. S. Starkman Alpha: S-Z |
Stay Connected and in the “Loop”: Continue to stay up to date
by following us on Instagram and LSS Guidance & Success Google Classroom
Instagram: @lssguidance
Google Classroom: https://classroom.google.com/c/NjcxOTQwNzYzNDFa?cjc=4rjwryf
Guidance Appointments: can be made in person by coming to guidance. There is a red binder on a standing desk in the Guidance Office. Students can book with their respective counsellor, by alpha last name. The appointments are made available every Monday morning for the week.
Semester 2 Timetables
Guidance is currently working on transitions, pathway planning, and post-secondary preparation. For students wanting to discuss semester 2 timetable options, please note that a window for course changes will be available in mid-November. More details to follow.
GUIDANCE APPOINTMENTS- NEW!!!
Making guidance appointments has moved to an online sign up system.
How to make a Guidance Appointment:
- please plan accordingly.
- If you need to cancel your appointment for any reason, click "cancel."
- Appointments are released on a weekly basis
- If you don’t see availability for the day selected within the week, it means we are fully booked.
- If you are in a personal crisis, please come to guidance.
Post-Secondary Information
The Ontario Universities Fair (OUF): If you missed it, you can catch the virtual session Monday, November 10, 5 to 7 pm (ET) Sign up – Information Sessions
YRDSB Post-Secondary Fair
Thursday, November 6 @ Alexander Mackenzie High School, 6:30pm-8:30pm
All LSS students and parents are welcome.
Financial Need:
If students are in financial need, there is support available related to the application fees. See a guidance counsellor if this applies to you.
LEADERSHIP & VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Please check the Google Classroom for ongoing opportunities.
Accelerated OYAP Information:
The application for the semester 2 Accelerated OYAP programs is now open. The direct link to it is www.bit.ly\DCOYAP. The application deadline is Friday, November 7th. Information about each Accelerated OYAP program offered can be found on the Accelerated OYAP SharePoint. The exact dates for each program have not been finalized for the 2025-2026 school year, however, they will be very similar to the dates for the 2024-2025 school year. The following is a brief summary of the Accelerated OYAP Program Eligibility:
- Graduating Grade 12 students (June 2026)
- Strongly recommended to have completed 40 hrs. community service and literacy test (or OLC4O)
- Registered in a 4 credit Co-op/PAE/ALEP in Semester 2 of Grade 12
- Must be sponsored by an employer/Co-op placement and be signed as an apprentice by the time the Accelerated OYAP program begins.
- Have related technical and/or Co-op experience and/or work experience and a strong interest in Skilled Trades
- Transportation to and from the location of the Accelerated OYAP level 1 programming is required. G2 Drivers license is strongly recommended.
Post Secondary Events | Date | Time | Location |
| Ontario Colleges | The Ontario College Fair will not take place in 2025. Students are invited to attend one of the College Information Program opportunities offered at colleges and polytechnics throughout Ontario All Ontario colleges and polytechnics offer a wide range of in-person and virtual options to connect with students, families, and educators — including Open Houses, campus visits, school presentations, webinars, and one-on-one advising, including offering a comprehensive College Information Program. We encourage you to reach out directly to the colleges and polytechnics in your region or visit ontariocolleges.ca/events for more information. | ||
| Level Up- Apprenticeship Fair | TBD | TBD | International Centre – Hall 1 Mississauga, Ontario |
School(s) Hosting | Date | Time | Location |
Hodan Nalayeh Secondary School
Partnering High Schools: Maple High School, Stephen Lewis Secondary School, Westmount Collegiate Institute | October 22, 2025 | 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm | Hodan Nalayeh Secondary School 1401 Clark Ave W Thornhill, ON, L4J7R4 |
Milliken Mills High School
Partnering High Schools: Middlefield Collegiate Institute | October 23, 2025 | 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm | Milliken Mills High School 7522 Kennedy Road Markham, ON, L3R9S5 |
Sir William Mulock Secondary School
Partnering High Schools: Dr JM Denison Secondary School, Huron Heights Secondary School, Newmarket High School and Sacred Heart Catholic High School | October 30, 2025 | 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm | Sir William Mulock Secondary School 705 Columbus Way Newmarket, ON, L3X2M7 |
| Keswick High School | November 6, 2025 | 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm | Keswick High School 100 Biscayne Boulevard Keswick, ON, L4P3S2 |
Alexander Mackenzie High School
Partnering High Schools: Richmond Hill High School, Richmond Green Secondary School, Bayview Secondary School, Langstaff Secondary School | November 6, 2025 | 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm | Alexander MacKenzie High School Richmond Hill 300 Major MacKenzie Dr W Richmond Hill, ON, L4C3S3 |
Bill Hogarth Secondary School
Partnering High Schools: Markham District High School, Stouffville District Secondary School
| November 12, 2025 | 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm | Bill Hogarth Secondary School 100 Donald Sim Avenue Markham, ON, L6B0R1 |
Emily Carr Secondary School
Partnering High Schools: Tommy Douglas SS and Woodbridge College. | November 13, 2025 | 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm | Emily Carr Secondary School 4901 Rutherford Road Woodbridge, ON, L4H3C2 |
Student Success News
Langstaff will be offering 2 Afterschool Programs to help students who are struggling in their classes. These classes will be led by Langstaff teachers and are free of charge. There is a minimal fee for international paying students.
Numeracy: This program will help support students struggling in math in Grade 9 and 10. This program will take place every Thursday in room 155 from 2:45pm-4:15pm starting on October 30th and ending on Thursday January 15th. Please bring in your signed permission form which is attached. Submit your form to student success as soon as possible.
Credit Success: This program will help support students struggling in all subject areas in Grade 9-12. This program will take place every Wednesday in room 132-Student Success starting Wednesday October 29th and ending on Wednesday January 14th. Please bring in your signed permission form which is attached. Submit your form to student success as soon as possible.
Credit Success Permission Form
If you have any questions or concerns, please see Ms. Starkman or Ms. Monroe in student success-room 132.
The Bear Den-our student success room 132 is open for students as a quiet place to work. Ms. Monroe and Ms. Starkman are available for support as needed. Students are welcome during their spares or if they have a form and teacher permission.
Please join the Guidance and Student Success Google Classroom for all important information, including volunteer and leadership opportunities, post-secondary, and more. Join code is:4rjwryf
Library Commons
A message from the York Region Public Libraries
Get a Library Card Today!Empower yourself and community with membership at your local library! A library card grants you access to resources for learning, education and entertainment. Here are just some examples of what a library membership can offer you:
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Italy 2026
LANGSTAFF BEARS! SPOTS ARE FILLING UP QUICKLY FOR THE 2026 ITALY ADVENTURE! DON'T MISS OUT — GO TO YOUR GAPPS ACCOUNT AND RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY! LET'S MAKE ITALY YOUR CLASSROOM THIS SPRING!
School News
Field Trip
Langstaff students pictured here had the opportunity to role play the Clerk and the Speaker in the Legislative Chamber yesterday on the Civics Field trip to Queens Park.
Please refer to photos sent in the bi-weekly bulletin to families.
School Cash Online
Langstaff Secodary School accepts online payments through School Cash ONLINE!
School Cash Online is our preferred method of payment and provides the following benefits:
• A convenient fee payment option can be made anywhere, anytime!
• No need to send cash or cheques to school
• A quick way to register. It takes less than 5 minutes to register
• You can choose the language of your choice by clicking Google Translate!
Parents that opt to participate will receive notification via email of student fees and can make secure online payments by credit card and receive a receipt.
Follow the easy steps below to Register and get started!
Step 1: Register
- Please go to the School Cash Online parent site: https://yrdsb.schoolcashonline.com/
- Select the “Register” button
- Enter your parent information to create an account.
*For Security Reasons your password, requires 8 characters, one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter and a number.
Step 2: Confirmation Email
A registration confirmation email will be automatically forwarded to you. Click on the link provided inside the email to confirm your email and School Cash Online account. The confirmation link will open the School Cash Online site prompting you to sign into your account. Use your email address and password just created with your account.
Step 3: Find/Add Student
NOTE: Enter Student Number (not OEN)
This step will connect your children to your account.
- Select the School Name from the list
- Enter student information: Student Number and Last Name
- Select Confirm
On the next page confirm that you are related to the child,
check in the Agree box and select Continue
- Your child has been added to your account
Step 4: View Items or Add Another Student
- If you have more children, select “Add Another Student” option in My Account/My Students and repeat the steps above. 5 children can be added to one parent account.
- If you do not wish to add additional children, select “View Items For Students” option.
- A listing of available items for purchase will be displayed.
Need Help?
If you require assistance, select the GET HELP option in the top right hand corner of the screen or contact School Cash Online – Parent Help Desk at 1-866-961-1803 or parenthelp@schoolcashonline.com.
Black Foundations of Community Networks (BFCN) York Region District School Board (YRDSB)
ScholarshipApplicationWorkshop
The Black Foundation of Community Networks (BFCN), in collaboration with York Region District School Board (YRDSB), invites Black students and their families to a free online workshop on how to search, prepare and apply for scholarships and bursaries. If you are in Grade 8 or high school, this workshop is especially for YOU! Tuesday, November 11, 20256:30 PM - 8:30 PM (ET) | ONLINE (ZOOM)Learn more and register at : bit.ly/BFCNWorkshopNovember11To participate, Black students and their families must be from YRDSB. For questions contact Cheryl Yarde at info@bfcn.ca. Learn more about our work and how to support at bfcn.ca. |
The York Region District School Board offers language learning for students at the elementary level (SK to Grade 8) and at the secondary level (Grades 9–12). Elementary Classes These extra-curricular classes are available for in-person or online classes. Each class is 2.5 hours long and runs once a week. Class times are:
Registration is now open. To join the full language program, please register early by Monday, September 8, 2025. Registration will close September 8 to organize classes. Registration may reopen on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, if thereis space. For more information about the elementary program, language class offerings, and locations, visit the ILIL Elementary webpage. Secondary Credit Courses These courses count for high school credits and are offered remotely only. Students can earn up to three credits in International Languages, and successfully completing the Level D (University) course can be used as one of their top six marks for post-secondary applications. Each course runs for the whole school year and takes place once a week for 3.7 hours. Choose one of the following class times:
Registration is now open and will close by the third class (Saturday September 27, or Wednesday, October 8). For more updates and information about the secondary credit program, visit the ILIL Secondary webpage to see what credit language classes are available. *Please Note:
*Languages Offered: Arabic, Cantonese, Dari, Farsi, German, Greek, Gujarati, Hebrew, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Macedonian, Mandarin (combined), Mandarin (Simplified), Mandarin (Traditional), Punjabi, Ojibwe, Russian, Sanskrit, Spanish, Tamil, Turkish, Urdu, Vietnamese, Yoruba |
Community News
Checking in on mental wellness for parents of 12-18-year-olds.Date: Thursday, November 6, 2025Time: 6:30 pm - 8:30 pmLocation: Lipa Green Centre
The Because YOUth Matter workshop will support parents in recognizing early warning signs and understanding how to respond to their children's mental needs. With mental health concerns on the rise among youth, being informed about mental health empowers parents to foster open conversations, reduce stigma, and create a supportive environment where their child feels safe seeking help. Goals:
This workshop is free of charge! For more information or to register, please contact Group Programs: GroupPrograms@jfandcs.com Please include a phone number and email address where we can reach you. We will be in touch with you shortly to finalize the booking process.  |
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Mastering your SeparationLearn how you can be the master of your own separation Topics will include:
$60 per person
JF&CS strives for inclusivity in all its programs, serving community members of any income, family structure, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious affiliation, level of observance,race, ethnicity, cultural identity and place of origin. For more information or to register, please call 416.638.7800 x 6234
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High Conflict DivorceSTRATEGIES TO DISENGAGE FROM THE CONFLICT Topics will include:
$45 per person
JF&CS strives for inclusivity in all its programs, serving community members of any income, family structure, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious affiliation, level of observance,race, ethnicity, cultural identity and place of origin. For more information or to register, please call 416.638.7800 x 6234
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Successful Step-Parenting For Couples Living in Blended FamiliesTo reduce the isolation many blended families feel about the challenges they face. To support families work through the challenges they are experiencing and to provide information so parents have more realistic expectations for their blended family. Topics will include:
$180 per couple
JF&CS strives for inclusivity in all its programs, serving community members of any income, family structure, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious affiliation, level of observance,race, ethnicity, cultural identity and place of origin. For more information or to register, please call 416.638.7800 x 6234
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C.I.C.E. & CVP College PresentationsThursday November 20, 20257 pm. - 9 pm. atRichmond Green Secondary School
You are invited to an information presentation on CVP (College Vocational Program) and C.I.C.E. (Community Integration through Cooperative Education) Programs. Program overs will be presented by: Durham College, George Brown College, Georgian College and Humber College. Discussion Topics Include: Eligibility, Program Structure and Content, Costs, Level of Support Please RSVP by November 17 2025 by clicking on this Registration Link
Location: Richmond Green S.S. 1 William F.Pkwy, Richmond Hill ON (Leslie & Elgin Mills)
We look forward to seeing you on Thursday November 20 2025, 7 pm. - 9 pmWork Experience Transition Department
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FREE For Caregivers of Teens with a Development Disability, Ages 15-21 This is a series of eight lunch and learn workshops. Attendees may choose to attend as many sessions as desired. These sessions may benefit by exploring new skills and acquiring knowledge related to navigating the transition to adulthood in areas such as employment, post-secondary education, and developing independence. A resource guide for caregivers is also provided.
YSSN is a hub for Developmental, Mental Health and Children's services that helps people to navigate services to live their best life.
Event Details Location: Virtual (link will be provided when you register online) Dates/Topics and Time: 12:00pm – 1:00pm
Click Here to Register for One or More Sessions Event Contacts: Cindy Hartman - chartman@yssn.ca Clare MacDonald - cmacdonald@yssn.ca Sue Walters - swalters@yssn.ca |
OUR MISSIONEMPOWERING INDEPENDENCE, BUILDING CONFIDENCEAt Café EXTRA Ordinaire, we are scheduled to open our Life Skills Centre on November 15th, 2025. We aim to empower individuals that are neurodiverse (18+) by equipping them with essential life skills. Through personalized coaching, hands-on experiences, and a supportive environment, we help individuals that are neurodiverse build the confidence and abilities to navigate the world on their own terms. Life skills encompass a wide range of abilities that help individuals function independently in their day-to- day lives. For individuals that are neurodiverse, these skills can open doors to greater independence, self- sufficiency, and overall well-being. Our programs focus on: Communication Skills, Household Management, Independent Living Skills, Social Skills, Time Management, Personal Care, Financial Literacy, Employment and Career Skills, and Physical Fitness Skills. OUR COMMITMENT TO INCLUSIONINCLUSIVE ENVIRONMENT At Café EXTRA Ordinaire, our staff have had a criminal and reference check completed and our ratio is 5:1, and have other programs available. We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone is valued and respected. We believe that diversity is our strength, and we celebrate the unique talents and perspectives everyone brings to our team. Our commitment to inclusion extends to every aspect of our cafe, from our hiring practices to our customer service. We strive to create a welcoming and supportive atmosphere that encourages personal and professional growth for all members of our community with a focus on: Customized Learning Plans, Supportive Environment, and Real-World Applications. Are you an individual that is neurodiverse and ready to take the next step toward independence? Or are you the parent/caregiver looking for supportive resources? Connect with us today to learn more about our programs and fee schedule.
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Monday through Friday 7am through 5pm
Need help understanding the developmental services system and transition planning? Do you have an IEP? Book a free, one (1) hour session, with a transitional planner to discuss and ask important questions related to your situation. We can:
These sessions are for individuals who have a developmental disability, have an IEP, are in high school or recently graduated and need help planning adult services. Also included are students in Grade 8 with an IEP preparing to transition into high school.
Wednesdays:
Fridays:
Time: 09:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. How to book an appointment: Email: cmacdonald@yssn.ca Call: 905.898.6455 ext. 2245 or toll free 1.866.257.9776 |
