General Reminders - Updated
JANUARY 2026 FINAL EVALUATION BLOCK
The HDSB school year calendar shows there are 5 designated Exam Days at the end of each semester. The Halton District School Board’s 2025-2026 Ministry approved school year calendar’s semester 1 exams days are from Thursday, January 22 to Wednesday, January 28, 2026. This is referred to as our “Final Evaluation Block”, and students will be completing components of the final 30% of a course’s grade on each of these days. The final 30% takes a variety of formats and could include a performance, written assignment, formal exam, presentation, etc., each of which are referred to as “Final Evaluations”.
As per Growing Success (page 41), “Final Evaluations will be based on evidence from one or a combination of the following: an examination, a performance task, an essay, and/or another method of evaluation suitable to the course content. The final evaluation must allow the student an opportunity to demonstrate comprehensive achievement of the overall expectations for the course.”
Here are some details in reference to the the Final Evaluation Block:
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Final evaluations are to be written on the assigned date, except in the case of illness and/or extenuating circumstances. As soon as you become aware of a circumstance that will conflict with any final evaluation date, please have your student complete this Final Evaluation Conflict Request form.
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All final evaluations begin at 9:00 a.m. and are scheduled to be written in the regular classroom unless a change in location is announced by the teacher.
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Students are to exit the building immediately after they complete their final evaluation each day.
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This is the GWSS Final Evaluation Block January - you will see the complete final evaluation schedule (subject to change before January 22).
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The library will be closed during the final evaluation block and the cafeteria will be closed from January 22 - January 30 and will reopen on Monday, February 2.
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The final evaluation schedule follows the format of one evaluation per day based on a Week A schedule:
Thu, Jan 22 Period 1 Evaluations @ 9 am
Fri, Jan 23 Period 2 Evaluations @ 9 am
Mon, Jan 26 Period 4 Evaluations @ 9 am
Tue, Jan 27 Period 5 Evaluations @ 9 am
Wed, Jan 28 Evaluation Make Up Day if needed due to school closure
Thu, Jan 29: Evaluation Review Day - shortened schedule (attendance is taken this day)
If the Board makes a decision to close all schools for any reason, all evaluations will be cancelled for that day and shifted to the final evaluation make-up day - Wednesday, January 28, 2026. (i.e. If schools were closed on Thursday January 22, Thursday's Period 1 evaluations would be cancelled and then written on the evaluation make-up day which is Wednesday, January 28).
Final Evaluation Review Day: Thursday, January 29, 2026
Students will be provided an opportunity to review their work on the Final Evaluations and receive feedback on their evidence of learning. This date will involve a different timetable where attendance is taken and students will meet with their teachers for a short review period.
The Final Evaluation Review Day Schedule as follows:
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Period |
Time |
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Period 1 |
8:30 - 9:00 AM |
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Period 2 |
9:05 - 9:35 AM |
|
Period 4 |
9:40 - 10:10 AM |
|
Period 5 and Dismissal |
10:15 - 10:45 AM |
Extended Absence Reminder
Parents who withdraw students during school time are advised that, depending on the timing and length of the absence, academic performance of your student may be affected. It is the student’s responsibility to catch-up on missed work.
In secondary school, any absence that is longer than 3 consecutive days is referred to as an extended absence. If you know that your student will be away for more than 3 consecutive school days, please print this extended absence form and fill it in with the information requested 2 weeks prior to the planned absence (hard copies are available in the office). Students should ask their parent/guardian and teachers to fill in the form and once it is complete, the form should be handed in at the main office. The Vice Principal will then review the form and it will be given to the attendance Administrative Assistant for attendance to be entered (absences longer than 3 days are not able to be entered into School Messenger by parents). If you have any questions about this process, please reach out to the main office at 905-847-6875. Thank you.
Hard copies of this form can be picked up in the main office at any time.
Supporting Responsibility and Engagement
Students play an important role in creating a positive school climate. Encourage your child to come to school prepared, be on time, engage fully in learning, treat others with kindness, and follow school policies, including the dress code and technology use. Reinforcing these habits at home helps your child thrive academically and socially.
Reminder: Oakville Transit – Supporting Positive Behaviour on Our School Routes
We are fortunate to have so many GWSS students who use Oakville Transit each day, including the routes coordinated specifically to support our school community. We are proud to share that the vast majority of our students are consistently kind, respectful, and considerate toward one another and toward adult riders. Their positive behaviour truly reflects the values of GWSS.
However, it has been shared with us that a small number of students are engaging in behaviours—such as vaping or playing with water bottles—that take away from the otherwise respectful environment our students create. To ensure that all riders continue to feel safe and comfortable, we kindly ask families to review the expectations below:
Expectations for Students on Oakville Transit:
• Respect for others
Students should continue to show courtesy to fellow passengers, bus drivers, and community members.
• Safety first
Students are expected to remain seated when possible, follow driver instructions, and avoid unsafe or distracting behaviour.
• Appropriate behaviour
Actions such as vaping, throwing objects, or disruptive conduct are not acceptable on the bus and may lead to follow-up at school.
• Care for the environment
Students are encouraged to keep the bus clean by disposing of garbage properly and treating the space responsibly.
We appreciate your support in reinforcing these expectations. With our shared efforts, we can ensure that all GWSS students continue to represent the school positively while travelling to and from campus.
Inclement Weather
With the arrival of winter weather, families are encouraged to review the HDSB Inclement Weather Reminders to know how we communicate important updates about school closures and bus cancellations. A printable version of this information is also available. If your child is bused to school, please ensure you know which transportation zone you are located in. Let’s stay connected and safe this snowy season!
HDSB Code of Conduct - Keeping Our School Safe
Safety is a priority for all of us. Our Code of Conduct prohibits bullying, harassment, weapons, drugs, and alcohol on school property. You can support your child by talking with them about making safe choices and reporting concerning behaviour to school staff. By working together, we help ensure our school remains a safe place for learning and growth.
At our school, we work hard to create a safe and respectful environment for all students. Our Code of Conduct asks everyone—students, staff, and families—to model respect, honesty, and integrity. You can support your child by encouraging respectful communication, valuing differences, and helping them solve conflicts peacefully. Together, we can nurture a community where every student feels included and valued.
Important Parking Lot Reminders
Parking Lot and Pedestrian Safety Reminder
As our school community continues to grow and our parking lot gets busier, especially at the end of the day, we want to remind everyone to keep safety at the forefront when arriving or leaving GWSS.
1. Observing Speed Limits
Whether you’re driving a car, riding a scooter, or being picked up, please be mindful of your speed while in the school parking lot. A few extra seconds can make all the difference in keeping everyone safe. Remember, the parking lot is a shared space for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.
2. Giving Priority to Pedestrians
When turning at the set of lights outside the school, please yield to pedestrians. Many students and families are walking home at that time, and ensuring they have the right of way helps prevent accidents and keeps our community safe.
3. After-School Awareness
The end of the school day is a particularly busy time for everyone. Please stay patient, slow down, and remain alert for students crossing between cars or heading toward buses. A little extra attention helps everyone get home safely.
Let’s continue to work together to make our school a safe and respectful place for all—both inside and outside the building!
Please be aware that our parking lot is very busy at school entry and dismissal times. It is preferred that students walk to school whenever possible. However, if you do end up driving your student to school (or for students who are driving themselves), we advise that people arrive early to avoid delays especially during the winter months and inclement weather. Come early to get a spot and please do not park in “no parking zones”. Arriving early is even more important now that the Town has closed the parking lot by the park for the winter.
Student Parking Pass
Students who will be driving to school must have their vehicle registered with the main office and must display a school parking pass in their vehicle while it is parked on school property.
Please request a parking pass. You will need to have your vehicle make/license plate information to register for a parking pass. Students are permitted to park in the lot closest to the front entrance to the school ONLY. The office will contact you via email when passes are ready. Please note that having a parking pass does not guarantee you a parking spot. You must arrive early (before 8:15 am is recommended) to be sure to get a spot as it’s first come, first served.
Thank you for helping us to keep everyone safe!
Concussion Protocol
Appendix B - Home and School Concussion Management Plan - Part B
Appendix C - Concussion Medical Clearance
By following this guide, school staff, parents/guardians, and healthcare professionals can work together to support the student, making sure they have the right accommodations as they recover.
As you complete this paperwork, please sign it and return it to the school (either by email or in-person in the main office). Information about concussion prevention, identification, and management
Fitness Centre Membership
The fitness centre will be open at lunch starting Monday, September 26. The cost of a yearlong membership is $20 and can be purchased on School Cash Online.
Important: students must have submitted their signed start up forms to the office before they will be allowed to use the fitness centre. Stickers for the back of the student card can be picked up in the Phys-Ed office as of Monday.
GWSS Math Peer Tutoring Program
Free 1-1 Tutoring
Tuesday - Wednesday - Thursday
Room 3021 @Lunch
Tutoring for:
Grade 9 Math - Grade 10 Math - Grade 11 Math
Grade 12 Math (depending on availbility)
Interested?
Email your Math teacher to enroll
Questions?
Please email Ms. Carmichael
Scooter Parking Reminder
We kindly ask that families remind their students to use the designated scooter racks at the front of the school (pictured on left side), rather than the student bike racks. These student racks are provided to ensure safety, accessibility, and adequate space for all.
Please also remember: While we do our best to provide a safe environment, personal items brought to school — including bicycles, scooters, and other equipment — are the responsibility of the student, and we cannot guarantee their security. We strongly recommend using a sturdy lock.
Thank you for your cooperation and support in keeping our school grounds organized and safe!
September Start Up Forms
We must have a completed package for every student. Thank you!
Student Fees
Student Engagement Fee
Each year in September, we ask families to purchase the Student Engagement Fee option through their School Cash Online account. Garth Webb is an active and inclusive place to learn. The Student Engagement Fees generate start up and operating funds for student run clubs including but not limited to environment issues, global issues, student newspaper, philanthropy, wellness council, etc. The fees also supplement the cost of school wide spirit events, LINK Crew transition, leadership training, motivational speakers, and student recognition awards and events. In addition, student engagement fees fund Student Council events such as assemblies and anti-bullying initiatives.
In September alone, the fees will go towards supporting our Grade 9 Welcome BBQ, our Link Crew activities, our Terry Fox Run, and our whole school assemblies. We will have many more activities and events throughout the year that the money collected through these fees will support.
Our school fee is $30 per student and although it is optional to purchase, we greatly appreciate and depend on the support from our families. We remain aware of the social economic constraints in our present day lives and are working hard to keep these fees low. Please visit School Cash Online today to pay the Student Engagement Fees. Thank you so much for your support in advance!
Athletic Fee
All students who participate on a team sport at Garth Webb will be required to pay the Athletic Fee on School Cash Online. The fee this year is $100 and it only needs to be paid once per year even if your student participates on more than one team. This fee contributes toward the costs associated with transportation, facility rentals, referees, the annual athletic banquet, OFSAA entry fees, and the wear and tear over and above the normal phys ed classes on shared equipment. This fee will be available on School Cash Online for your student once they have joined a team.
Order Your Yearbook Today
The 2025-2026 yearbooks are now available to order on School Cash Online only. We do not order extra copies so you must order online before the deadline to be able to get a copy of the yearbook. Order early to avoid disappointment!
Don't miss out on ordering this fantastic keepsake!
Oakville Schools - Coyote Awareness
The Municipal Enforcement Services Department with the Town of Oakville is sharing the following information to help raise awareness about coyotes and promote safe practices in school communities. Please consider sharing the Winter Coyote Fact Sheet (please download and attach if sharing) in an upcoming newsletter to parents. This resource provides important information on how families can reduce coyote encounters and help keep our wildlife safe. The Town of Oakville also encourages schools to remind staff and students of the following key messages:
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Never feed wildlife – this is a leading cause of human-wildlife conflict.
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Dispose of all garbage properly, including organic waste, in receptacles with secure lids.
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Keep school yards clean and ensure outdoor bins are fully enclosed to help deter wildlife.
For quick tips and more information, please visit the Coyotes page on oakville.ca or watch this short video.
Additionally, if any schools are planning events that include educational or community booths, the Town of Oakville would welcome the opportunity to attend and speak about coyote awareness or other relevant by-law topics.
GWSS is Scent Free
Our school is a Scent Free Environment. Please help us to accommodate the members of our school community who are sensitive and/or allergic to fragrances and other scented products by keeping the air fragrance free. Please do not wear fragrances or scented products. Thank you.
CyberTip
Cybertip.ca is run by The Canadian Centre for Child Protection, a national charity dedicated to the personal safety of all children. Their goal is to reduce the sexual abuse and exploitation of children, assist in the location of missing children, and prevent child victimization through a number of programs, services, and resources for Canadian families, educators, child-serving organizations, law enforcement, and other parties. In reviewing their resources and “tip/alert” pages, there are a number of great resources you can use to help students check out their page on “Sextortion” which is a growing trend online targeting young people, or their free online safety resources.
For more information and resources, visit:
