August 28th, 2026
August 28, 2026
Dear EDSS Families,
On behalf of the staff at Elmira District Secondary School, I am thrilled to welcome both returning and new families to the upcoming school year. Whether your child is returning for their final year or stepping through our doors for the very first time, our dedicated team is committed to supporting their academic growth, personal well-being, and success.
A special welcome goes out to our Grade 9 students and families! High school is an exciting milestone, and we are eager to help our newest Lancers transition smoothly, discover their passions, and build strong connections within our school community. EDSS boasts a rich tradition of student involvement, and we strongly encourage all students to get involved in our vibrant school life—whether through our athletic teams, robotics team, drama and music groups, many different clubs, or active student leadership groups.
To help you and your child prepare for the start of the year, please note the following key updates and reminders:
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- First Day Plan & Student Handbook: Included with this letter, you will find our plan for the first day back to school, along with a link to our updated Caregiver and Student Handbook. Please review these documents together as a family to ensure a smooth start.
- Semester 1 Timetables: Semester 1 timetables will be sent to students through their WRDSB student email address by Thursday, September 3. Students who are new to the WRDSB and do not have an email address yet, will receive an emailed copy which will be directed to the email address that was provided by their caregiver at the time of registration. Printed copies of timetables will be handed out to all students during period A classes on the first day of school. If a student doesn’t have a Period A course, they are asked to come to the main office to receive their copy.
- New Character Education Program: This year, we are proud to introduce a new character education program designed to foster leadership, respect, and community responsibility across all grade levels.
- School Communications: To keep our community informed, we will be launching weekly virtual announcements, which will also be posted daily on our school website for easy access.
- Chromebook Distribution & Opt-In Process: We will begin distributing Chromebooks starting on the first day of school. We are implementing a new opt-in process this year and kindly ask for your patience as we work through the distribution schedule to get devices into students’ hands as quickly as possible.
- Assessment, Evaluation, and Reporting (Growing Success Updates): Families should also be aware that provincial policies regarding assessment, evaluation, and reporting (Growing Success) are undergoing updates. As we receive further details on how these provincial changes translate into our board’s specific policies and procedures, we will make sure to share that information clearly with our school community.
- Important Handbook Reminders:
- Personal Mobile Devices (Cell Phones): In alignment with Provincial Policy (PPM 128), personal mobile devices are not permitted during instructional time unless explicitly directed by an educator for learning purposes, medical needs, or special education supports. Devices must be stored out of sight during class. Furthermore, using devices in private spaces like washrooms or change rooms, or taking photos/videos without consent, is strictly prohibited.
- Punctuality & Attendance: Regular attendance is essential for secondary success. If your child will be absent or needs to leave early, please ensure the school is notified via email prior to the start of the day at eds-attendance@wrdsb.ca. The Ministry of Education now requires that all attendance excusals are given in writing. We are no longer able to accept phone calls for absence reporting.
- Dress Code & Code of Conduct: Students are expected to maintain an environment focused on learning and mutual respect. Apparel displaying hateful, discriminatory, profane, or inappropriate imagery or language is not permitted.
- Timetable Changes: Guidance counsellors will have a schedule for students who need to make any necessary course adjustments (e.g., missing prerequisites, summer school completion, or pathway changes). Please note that timetable changes for students under 18 require parental consent. Please refer to the Guidance Website for details.
- School Year Information: Please visit https://schools.wrdsb.ca/ for school year information from the WRDSB.
We firmly believe that student success relies on a strong partnership between home and school. We encourage you to stay connected with us throughout the year and consider joining our School Council to share your voice and support our school community. If interested, please contact me at the school office.
We look forward to seeing our students on the first day back! Please feel free to contact the main office if you have any questions before then.
Yours in Education,
Tim Swartz
Principal
Elmira District Secondary School