The start of a new year offers a fresh opportunity for reflection and growth. It’s a great time for students to set goals that foster motivation and engagement in learning. Encourage your child to think about areas where they want to improve – whether it’s becoming more organized, building stronger friendships, or developing better study habits. Writing down goals and revisiting them regularly helps keep progress in focus and builds accountability.
Goal setting also supports a growth mindset, the belief that abilities can be developed through effort and perseverance. Instead of focusing solely on grades, children benefit from embracing challenges, learning from mistakes, and celebrating progress. You can encourage this at home by asking questions like, “What challenge did you tackle today?” or “What can you try differently next time?” This approach nurtures resilience and a love of learning.
As we continue this school year, let’s work together to inspire students to take risks, grow through effort, and stay curious. With thoughtful reflection and goal setting, we can help children develop skills that will guide them far beyond the classroom. At the same time, let us remind our children—and ourselves—that while striving for excellence is important, we are loved unconditionally, just as we are. With this truth in our hearts, we can approach new challenges with joy, confidence, and gratitude.
TAKE A LOOK AT WHAT HAPPENED THIS WEEK …
Monday was our first day back after Christmas Break!
Learn to Skate started for all K-2 students!
PML Term 2
Enrichment Classes and Hockey Enrichment
Wednesday Pizza Fundraising Lunch
Thursday was Early Dismissal
LOOKING AHEAD TO NEXT WEEK …
Learn to Skate
Advisory Groups and Hockey Enrichment
Musical Bake Sale on Tuesday, January 14th
Wednesday Subway and Hot Dog Fundraising lunch on Wednesday
LOOK WHAT’S COMING UP …
School Mass on Tuesday, January 21st at 1030 am – ALL ARE WELCOME!
Re-registrations will be distributed
Toonies for Tuition Colour Day
Kinder Fair and General Open House
More detailed information can be found on the school website, in the calendar section under Parent Zone!
IMPORTANT PARKING INFORMATION
Thank you to everyone in our community for following the parking protocols and signage to help keep everyone safe. Reminder, there is NO STOPPINGin the bus loop. This is also a NO IDLE ZONE.
We are ALWAYS looking for volunteers to help with this initiative. As a thank you, FREE BASC (Before and After School Care) is being offered to our volunteers. You can sign up directly here: PARKING LOT & LOADING ZONE PATROL | Monday to Friday
BASC
Monday BLINE starts.
Tuesday is the New Year Craft.
Wednesday is BLINE.
Thursday is Apple Crisp Bake for Grades 3-5.
There are a few spots left in the full day BASC, registration is needed to attend.
Feel free to contact me with any questions at 204-880-8245 or email kfurutani@stccs.ca. Ms. Furutani
PUT THIS ON YOUR CALENDAR
Toonies for Tuition Colour Day is an annual fundraising initiative supporting national bursary programs that help students attend Catholic schools. Students can participate by bringing a toonie to school, on Friday, January 22nd, 2025 earning the opportunity to enjoy a Colour Day in return. Thank you for your support!
Additionally, we are now booking spots for our Kinder Fair and Open House happening in January. Don’t miss out!
Flyer cards are being sent home with each student in the hope that you will share them with family and friends or post them in appropriate places. Our parent community has always been our best source of promotion, and we sincerely appreciate your help in spreading the word about how wonderful SCCS is. Thank you for your support!
LEARN-TO-SKATE: REQUIRED EQUIPMENT FOR ALL STUDENTS
CSA Caged helmet
Neck guard
Knee pads (attached under the snow pants)
Snow pants or splash pants to cover the uniform pants
Gloves
Skates
LOST AND FOUND
Lost and found items will be displayed on tables in our Front Lobby from Monday, January 13th, to Friday, January 17th. If your child is missing any belongings, please take a moment to look through the items. Any unclaimed items remaining after Friday will be donated.
SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION
INTRODUCTORY MEETING for Grade 2 and up WITH PARENTS/GUARDIANS AND CHILDREN 10:30 am Sunday, January 26, 2025, Saint John XXIII Church 3390 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg
PLEASE CONTACT OUR PASTORAL ASSISTANT, SHARON CAMIER, TO REGISTER: Call Sharon at 204-832-7206 or email sharon@johnxxiii.ca
SCIENCE FAIR: BE A JUDGE!
We’re excited to announce that preparations for the Science Fair are well underway! To make this event even more special, we’re looking for parent volunteers to join our panel of judges. If you have a background in science, medicine, engineering, or a related field, we’d love to have your expertise. Please note that judges will not be assigned to evaluate their own child’s project and will be provided with training to help them.
TURF CAMPAIGN – FROM THE GROUND UP – HELP BUILD OUR PLAYGROUND
We are asking for your help! So far we have raised $69,020. You can track our progress on the school website. Thank you in advance for your generosity and support!
Generous Donors Supporting our Turf Campaign
Val Pelleck
Ike Ogbu
Paul Fia, Christine Ferreira and Family
John and Nicole Klassen and Family
Boonen Family
Thank you!
Here is a video preview link of the turf project completed by Venture Landscaping:
God declares, “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?” -Isaiah 43:19
This verse beautifully captures the spirit of hope and renewal that comes with each new year. It is a time to reflect on the blessings we have received, to learn from our past experiences, and to look forward with faith-filled hearts to the opportunities that lie ahead. God calls us to embrace change with trust in His plan and confidence in His grace.
Next week, I will be away from January 15 -17, 2025, as I will be attending a three-day Catholic School Principals’ Retreat. This retreat is an important opportunity for reflection, collaboration, and professional growth as we continue to strengthen the mission and values of Catholic education. As a result, I will not be sending out a Principal’s Update next Friday. However, if there are any urgent matters during my absence, please do not hesitate to reach out to the school office, and they will ensure your concerns are addressed.
Thank you and I hope you have a wonderful weekend ahead!
Aneta Prettie PRINCIPAL
St. Charles Catholic School Phone: 204-837-1520 ext. 222
The final week of school before the Christmas break! All I can say is the excitement and joy in the air were unmistakable. It was Christmas Spirit Week, a cherished tradition that embodies the wonder of the season and brings our community together in faith, celebration, and learning.
This week, our activities beautifully align with the lighting of the third candle of Advent, the Candle of Joy. We rejoice in the coming of Christ, the light of the world, and reflect this joy in everything we do.
From Christmas parties and gingerbread decorating to festive dress-up days and caroling in the gym, each moment helps our students experience the Christmas season in meaningful ways. Our Christmas Pageant showcases the Nativity story, reminding us of the true reason for this season.
We ended the week—by gathering as a community of faith for our School Mass on Friday. This is a special time to reflect on the blessings of the season and prepare our hearts for the birth of Christ.
Through these activities, our students not only celebrate but also learn the deeper meaning of Christmas: the joy of giving, the beauty of tradition, and the love that Christ brings to the world.
Wishing you and your families a blessed Christmas season filled with peace, love, and joy.
TAKE A LOOK AT WHAT HAPPENED THIS WEEK …
Monday Advent Prayer Services
Christmas Spirit Week
Enrichment Classes and Hockey Enrichment
Holy Childhood Association Popcorn Day
Christmas Hamper Collections were picked up on Wednesday – thank you to everyone who contributed!
Wednesday Subway and Hot Dog Fundraising Lunch
Christmas Pageant and Caroling
School Mass and Early Dismissal
CHRISTMAS BREAK!
LOOK WHAT’S COMING UP …
Monday, January 6th, 2025, is the first day back at school after Christmas Break
PML Term 2 begins on Monday
K-2 Learn to Skate starts on Monday
Enrichment Classes and Hockey Enrichment resume on Tuesday
Wednesday Pizza Fundraising Lunch starts up on Wednesday
Early Dismissal at 230 pm on Thursday, January 9th
More detailed information can be found on the school website, in the calendar section under Parent Zone!
IMPORTANT PARKING INFORMATION
Thank you to everyone in our community for following the parking protocols and signage to help keep everyone safe. Reminder, there is NO STOPPINGin the bus loop. This is also a NO IDLE ZONE.
We are ALWAYS looking for volunteers to help with this initiative. As a thank you, FREE BASC (Before and After School Care) is being offered to our volunteers. You can sign up directly here: PARKING LOT & LOADING ZONE PATROL | Monday to Friday
BASC
Curling is on January 8th & 22nd
January’s K-2 Chocolate Bake is full
There are still spots in the Apple Crisp Make and Sushi Roll
New Year Craft is on Tuesday, January 14th
BLINE’s new session starts January 13th
Full day BASC on January 31st
Feel free to contact me with any questions at 204-880-8245 or email kfurutani@stccs.ca. Happy Holidays, Ms. Furutani
CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Our concerts were a tremendous success and provided a wonderful two days of celebration for our community. The attendance and support were truly remarkable. The video of the concert is currently being edited and will be shared in the new year.
I am pleased to share that a total of $4,357.00 was raised across the three concerts for the St. Charles Bursary Fund. We deeply appreciate everyone’s generous support—thank you!
I am constantly inspired by the generosity and positivity of our community. It’s all about the students—every action of support and care strengthens our school and benefits our students. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference-thank you!
Additionally, we are now booking spots for our Kinder Fair and Open House happening in January. Don’t miss out!
WEDNESDAY HOT LUNCH FUNDRAISER
Please login to your MunchALunch account to place your 2025 orders. Parents can order via the following link: www.munchalunch.com
VERY IMPORTANT: Please note that all cash/cheque payments are due before the last day of school (Friday, December 20, 2024). The last day to order and pay online for the first lunch is Wednesday, January 1, 2025. If you have a balance outstanding past January 1/25, your child(ren)’s order will not be placed.
Hot lunch volunteering opportunities: the fundraising team can use your help! We are looking for paper plate donations and help during the Wednesday lunch program. Please sign up here:
A heartfelt thank you to all the families for the wonderful treats, gifts, and overwhelming expressions of appreciation.
We are truly grateful for the generous amount of food and treats that have been prepared and brought in for all the staff.
Your kindness means so much to us, and we feel incredibly special and appreciated. The generosity shown by our community is truly touching. Thank you again!
WELCOME MRS. SCHULZ!
Hello, my name is Tricia Schulz, and I am thrilled to be teaching Grade 2 while Mrs. McIsaac is on maternity leave. I just moved back to my hometown of Winnipeg with my husband and four boys! I taught for over eleven years with the Calgary Catholic School District. I recently completed a term at another Catholic School in Winnipeg and am thrilled for my new adventure at St. Charles Catholic School! I grew up attending and volunteering at St. Charles Parish and this church was also our family church for many important events. My interests include spending time with my family, travelling, going to church, and playing sports myself and watching my oldest play soccer! I also love acting, debate and musical theater!
LEARN-TO-SKATE REMINDER
The Learn-to-Skate program for kindergarten to Grade 2 students will begin on January 6th, 2024. An email was sent out this week with important details and a permission click. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out!
BUILDING & GROUNDS UPDATE
I’m excited to share some great updates about our school – The work continues! First, the foundation work was successfully completed last week. A big thank you to Secure Construction Group for their exceptional effort in finishing the project on time while keeping our school entrance accessible throughout. Thankfully, our historic 1906 building is well-prepared for many more years of service!
Next, the Kindergarten hallway and K-2 BASC areas are getting a bright upgrade with new LED lighting. The installation started today, and these spaces will be shining and ready to welcome students and staff upon their return. Our thanks to T&A Electric Inc. for their hard work on this project.
Finally, our gym stage is receiving a refreshing uplift. The back wall has been painted to brighten the area, and the stage floor has been beautifully sanded and stained. New storage shelves are being added to complete the upgrade, and just in time for basketball season starting in January.
We hope you enjoy all these improvements to our school!
Thank you to the Board of Directors for their ongoing support in making these projects possible.
ST. CHARLES FORCE
This is a soccer development league that operates independently from our school. However, some of our students do participate in the program. The league starts in January. For any inquiries, please refer to the contact information provided on the poster. (INCLUDED IN THE .PDF BELOW)
LEGO CAMPS
A series of one-day LEGO® camps are being offered over the upcoming winter break at St. Emile School.
The camps focus on creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving, featuring themed activities like guided 3D building, motorized tech builds with LEGO® motors and batteries, and engaging crafts. Camp Details:
Dates: December 23, December 30, December 31, January 2, and January 3
Time: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Drop off from 8:30-9:00am, Pick-up from 4:00-4:30 PM *extended care available upon request at an additional cost*)
Location: St. Emile School, 552 St. Anne’s Road, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Cost: $50 + GST per day
Age Group: Kids aged 5-12
Special Offer: We are offering a 10% discount for Catholic school families in Winnipeg! The following link can be used by parents to register: https://bricks4kidz.ca/manitoba-southeast. Additionally, here is the 10% discount code: CATHOLIC10
TURF CAMPAIGN – FROM THE GROUND UP – HELP BUILD OUR PLAYGROUND
We are asking for your help! So far we have raised $57,020. You can track our progress on the school website. Thank you in advance for your generosity and support!
Generous Donors Supporting our Turf Campaign
Heendeniya Family
Justin and Amanda Panagapko
Thank you!
Here is a video preview link of the turf project completed by Venture Landscaping:
“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord.” -Luke 2:10-11
May this Christmas season fill your hearts and homes with hope, joy, and the light of Christ’s love. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Aneta Prettie PRINCIPAL
St. Charles Catholic School Phone: 204-837-1520 ext. 222
This week, our school was treated to a series of incredible music concerts, showcasing the immense talent and hard work of our students and staff. At the heart of it all was our amazing Music Teacher, Mrs. Christelle Gregorchuk. Her vision, talent, and tireless work ethic brought everything together beyond expectation. Over the past three months, her dedication to teaching and guiding our students has created something truly special.
The students were nothing short of phenomenal! Their energy, excitement, and joy were evident in every performance. Each note they played and sang moved us, reminding us of the incredible power of music to bring people together and uplift our spirits.
The Band Concert was particularly remarkable. These students, all of whom are new to their instruments, performed with the confidence and cohesion of seasoned musicians. Their hard work and dedication were evident, and the transformation they’ve undergone in their attitudes toward music over the past few months has been inspiring. They are embracing challenges, growing in their skills, and sounding more like a true band with every performance.
The Christmas Concerts were equally magical. The sound of Christmas music during this special time of year brought warmth and joy to everyone in attendance. Our students sounded amazing, and their hard work shone brightly. This year, students in Grades 3-5 also took on the challenge of learning new instruments, including the ukulele, recorder, and xylophone, adding even more depth to their musical education.
Our choirs, composed of students from multiple grades, were nothing short of impressive. Their performances were visually and vocally stunning, and we couldn’t be prouder of their efforts.
Looking ahead, we are excited about what’s next for our music program: Music Festival performances! With such talented students and an exceptional leader in Mrs. Gregorchuk, the future of music at our school is incredibly bright. Congratulations to all the students and staff on an unforgettable week of music and celebration!
TAKE A LOOK AT WHAT HAPPENED THIS WEEK …
Monday Advent Prayer Services
Christmas Hamper Collections
Enrichment Classes and Hockey Enrichment
Reconciliation for Grades 5-8
Wednesday Pizza Fundraising Lunch
Band and Christmas Concert rehearsals
SCCS Grade 6-8 Band Concert
SCCS Matinee & Evening Christmas Concerts
LOOKING AHEAD TO NEXT WEEK …
Christmas Spirit Week: NO UNIFORMS REQUIRED
Advent Prayer Services
Christmas Hamper Collections will be picked up on Wednesday, December 18th
Enrichment Classes and Hockey Enrichment continue on Tuesday
Holy Childhood Association Popcorn Sale on Tuesday, December 17th
Wednesday Subway & Hot Dog Fundraising Lunch for those who have ordered
Christmas Pageant & Caroling on Thursday, December 19th at 230 pm – JOIN US!
Last Day of School – Friday, December 20th
10 am School Mass
11:35 am Early Dismissal – PLEASE JOIN US FOR MASS!
LOOK WHAT’S COMING UP …
Christmas Break!
School Resumes on Monday, January 6th, 2025
Learn to Skate: For K-2 students begins on Monday, January 6th, 2025
Early Dismissal on January 9th
More detailed information can be found on the school website, in the calendar section under Parent Zone!
IMPORTANT PARKING INFORMATION
Thank you to everyone in our community for following the parking protocols and signage to help keep everyone safe. Reminder, there is NO STOPPINGin the bus loop. This is also a NO IDLE ZONE.
We are ALWAYS looking for volunteers to help with this initiative. As a thank you, FREE BASC (Before and After School Care) is being offered to our volunteers. You can sign up directly here: PARKING LOT & LOADING ZONE PATROL | Monday to Friday
BASC
There is BLINE on Monday.
The Christmas Craft is on Tuesday. Students will be making a present so please do not come before 4:45PM.
Wednesday is the BLINE Demo/Testing at 4:30PM in the main gym. Everyone welcome!
Friday there is NO PM BASC.
Reminder when arriving in the mornings at the front doors please just sent your child in. Please do not go to lockers or down hallways either. BASC opens at 7AM. Please do not send your child to the doors before. BASC closes at 6PM.
January forms are due December 20th before the break, as we need to make sure we know the numbers of students for the programs. Forms for these activities are available online and at the front entrance and spots are limited. Payments can be postdated.
New offerings in January include:
Chocolate Cake Bake
Apple Crisp Bake
Sushi Rolling
New Year Craft
BLINE starting over.
Please note, there will be NO PM BASC on December 20th and NO BASC during the Christmas Break. Feel free to contact me with any questions at 204-880-8245 or email kfurutani@stccs.ca.
RAFFLE WINNERS
The SCCS Raffle draw took place on December 6th. Check out the winners which are posted to our Facebook Page!
Additionally, we are now booking spots for our Kinder Fair and Open House happening in January. Don’t miss out!
WEDNESDAY HOT LUNCH FUNDRAISER
Our Wednesday hot lunch fundraiser is open for ordering! Please login to your MunchALunch account to place your 2025 orders. Parents can order via the following link: www.munchalunch.com
Please note that all cash/cheque payments are due before the last day of school (Friday, December 20, 2024).The last day to order and pay online for the first lunch is Wednesday, January 1, 2025.
VIP HOURS
Please log all completed VIP hours on Permission Click by December 20th as we will be running reports over the winter break.
Are you curious about how many volunteer hours you have completed? That information is available on the school website under the VIP section. The information is updated monthly. Please note that the entries have not been verified by the VIP team.
Should you have any questions or concerns we can be reached via email at vip@stccs.ca.
LAST DAY OF SCHOOL
If parents plan not to send their children to school on the morning of Friday, December 20th, the last day before the holiday break, please email reception@stccs.ca as soon as possible. This will help ensure attendance is handled smoothly and efficiently that morning. Otherwise, reception will need to call families regarding unexcused absences.
CHRISTMAS SPIRIT WEEK
As we head into the final week before Christmas break, let’s make it festive and fun! Students are not required to wear uniforms during this time, so feel free to dress up and show your holiday spirit.
Whether it’s wearing your favorite Christmas sweater, festive colors, or dressing up in something cheerful, let’s celebrate the season together and end the year on a joyful note!
Please see the Weekly Update .pdf at the bottom of the page for a listing of dress for each day of Spirit Week.
Learn-to-Skate REMINDER
The Learn-to-Skate program for kindergarten to Grade 2 students will begin on January 6th, 2024. An email was sent out this week with important details and a permission click. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out!
CANDY-CANE ORDER
The Musical Team would like to thank everyone who supported the Candy Cane Drive. Candy Canes will be handed out on Tuesday. Happy Holidays.
FOOD HAMPERS
We are collecting food items for two different families from one of our local parishes. Each class is asked to contribute specific items. Here is the list:
KF/KL: jello, rice, canned tuna
Gr. 1: mac and cheese, tea
Gr. 1-2: cookies, stuffing
Gr. 2: gravy mix, peanut butter
Gr. 3: canned spaghetti, oatmeal
Gr. 3-4: jam, canned fruit, scalloped potatoes
Gr. 4: coffee, syrup, canned vegetables
Gr. 5: cereal, pancake mix
Gr. 6C: sugar, canned soup
Gr. 6M: cranberry sauce, bagged candy
Gr. 7: spaghetti sauce, pork and beans
Gr. 8: fruit juice, cake mix
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
TURF CAMPAIGN – FROM THE GROUND UP – HELP BUILD OUR PLAYGROUND
We are asking for your help! So far we have raised $46,020. You can track our progress on the school website. Thank you in advance for your generosity and support!
Generous Donors Supporting our Turf Campaign
Hardman Family
Sinclair Family
Janice Carson and Corry Schmeichel in support of Liam Kutzner
David Forde CPA, CA
Thank you!
Here is a video preview link of the turf project completed by Venture Landscaping:
“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord.” -Luke 2:10-11
Have a great weekend!
Aneta Prettie PRINCIPAL
St. Charles Catholic School Phone: 204-837-1520 ext. 222
As we enter the season of Advent, we are reminded of its profound meaning—a time of preparation, hope, and joyful anticipation. Advent calls us to reflect on the coming of Christ, not just at Christmas but also in our daily lives.
At St. Charles, this sacred season holds special significance.
It is a time when we come together as a community to prepare spiritually through weekly prayer services in our grade-level groups, attending Reconciliation, celebrating St. Nicholas Day, participating in our Christmas pageant, and much more. These activities help guide our hearts as we await the arrival of Christ.
In the spirit of Advent, we are also engaging in acts of kindness, such as our hamper collection to support those in need, creating 306 Christmas cards for seniors, and making decorations to brighten the season for all.
Living the teachings of Christ is at the core of our school community. Each day, we strive to care for each student, ensuring that they feel valued, supported, and loved.
The school is already beaming with anticipation and preparation for Christmas, with festive decorations and Advent themes woven into fun and meaningful learning activities. This is what our teachers do—always engaging students with meaningful learning activities!
As we journey through Advent, may we continue to support one another in creating a school environment that reflects the light of Christ, preparing not only for Christmas but also for a deeper understanding of His presence in our lives. Wishing you a blessed Advent season!
TAKE A LOOK AT WHAT HAPPENED THIS WEEK …
Advent Prayer Services
Christmas Hamper Collections
Advisory Groups and Hockey Enrichment
PML Lunch Hour Recital
PML Evening Recitals at OLPH
Wednesday Hot Dog/Subway Fundraising Lunch
Early Dismissal
St. Nicholas Day Assembly
Raffle Ticket draw
LOOKING AHEAD TO NEXT WEEK …
Advent Prayer Services
Christmas Hamper Collection
Enrichment Classes and Hockey Enrichment
Reconciliation: Wednesday, December 11th for Grade 5-8 students
Wednesday Pizza Fundraising Lunch for those who have ordered
Grade 6-8 Band Concert at St. Paul the Apostle on Thursday, December 12th at 630 pm
K-8 Matinee & Evening Christmas Concerts at St. Paul the Apostle on Friday, December 13th at 130 pm and 630 pm
LOOK WHAT’S COMING UP …
Christmas Spirit Week (No uniforms all week)
Advent Prayer Services
Enrichment Classes and Hockey Enrichment
Holy Childhood Association Popcorn Sale
Wednesday Hot Dog/Subway Fundraising Lunch
Christmas Pageant & Caroling on Thursday, December 19th at 230 pm – JOIN US!
Friday, December 20th:
School Mass at 10 am
Early dismissal at 1135 am
More detailed information can be found on the school website, in the calendar section under Parent Zone!
IMPORTANT PARKING INFORMATION
Thank you to everyone in our community for following the parking protocols and signage to help keep everyone safe. Reminder, there is NO STOPPINGin the bus loop. This is also a NO IDLE ZONE.
We are ALWAYS looking for volunteers to help with this initiative. As a thank you, FREE BASC (Before and After School Care) is being offered to our volunteers. You can sign up directly here: PARKING LOT & LOADING ZONE PATROL | Monday to Friday
BASC
There is BLINE on Monday.
There is Curling on Wednesday.
No BLINE is scheduled for Wednesday.
There is no milk or lunch program on Friday, December 13th.
January forms are due December 20th before the break, as we need to make sure we know the numbers of students for the programs. Forms for these activities are available at the front entrance and spots are limited. Payments can be postdated.
New offerings in January include:
Chocolate Cake Bake
Apple Crisp Bake
Sushi Rolling
New Year Craft
BLINE starting over.
Please note, there will be NO PM BASC on December 20th and NO BASC during the Christmas Break. Feel free to contact me with any questions at 204-880-8245 or email kfurutani@stccs.ca.
MUSIC PROGRAM ANNOUNCEMENTS
We’ve been working diligently to achieve our musical goals and can’t wait to showcase our hard work and joy! With the concert just one week away, it’s crucial for all students to attend the evening performances to ensure full class representation.
Band Concert (All Grade 6-8 Students): December 12th @ 6:30pm @ St. Paul the Apostle, 2400 Portage Ave.
Please bring students to the front doors of the church @ 6:00pm (in school uniform). Students are responsible for bringing their instruments to the church.
Christmas Concerts (All K-8 students): December 13th @ St. Paul the Apostle, 2400 Portage Ave.
1:30pm Concert: Students will be bussed (in school uniform). Students are not to be picked up from the church as all their personal items are at the school. Students can be signed out once they are back at the school if leaving early.
6:30pm Concert: Please bring students to the front doors of the church @ 6:00pm. Students will be supervised by their teacher in the basement, and we kindly ask parents not to go downstairs during the performance. Once the concert has concluded, parents need to come downstairs to pick up their child.
On behalf of the entire SCCS community, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to—Julie Pedersen, Lesley Kiselbach, and Michelle Barkley—for your incredible time and effort in organizing the school Christmas Craft Fair Market. Your hard work and dedication made this event a wonderful success, and we are so grateful for all the behind-the-scenes effort you all put in.
Your commitment to making the event enjoyable for everyone is truly appreciated, and we are so fortunate to have such amazing organizers. Thank you to all the parents that volunteered before, during and after the event as well. Thank you everyone for supporting SCCS!
ST. NICHOLAS DAY ASSEMBLY
St. Nicholas, also known as Nicholas of Myra, was a 4th-century bishop famous for his generosity, care for the poor, and love for children. His feast day, celebrated on December 6, honors his legacy as a model of Christian charity and kindness. His life teaches us about the importance of generosity, humility, and love for others, especially the less fortunate. At St. Charles Catholic School, the feast of St. Nicholas is celebrated with joy and reflection:
Assembly and Prayer Service: Students come together to pray and learn about St. Nicholas’ life and virtues.
Shoes Out and Candy Inside: In a nod to tradition, students leave their shoes out, and small treats, are placed inside, symbolizing the saint’s generosity.
Visit from St. Nicholas: A special guest, dressed as St. Nicholas, visits the students to remind them of his story and inspire them to follow his example.
PML RECITALS
Two wonderful evening recitals featuring nearly 100 talented performers are a remarkable accomplishment we take great pride in at SCCS. These events beautifully showcased the talent, hard work, and dedication of our students and their instructors. A heartfelt thank you to all our instructors and to Melissa Gingrich for her outstanding coordination of the PML program and both recitals. Your commitment and expertise are deeply appreciated!
RECONCILIATION
Reconciliation is an important sacrament in our Catholic faith and a time for spiritual reflection and growth. At St. Charles Catholic School, this experience is offered to our Grade 5-8 students, with the support of our sponsoring parish priests, who take the time to meet with each student.
Catholic students are guided on how to participate in the sacrament of confession, deepening their understanding of forgiveness and grace. For students who are not Catholic, this is a meaningful opportunity to learn how to receive a blessing and reflect on values like kindness, respect, and humility.
This shared experience fosters a sense of community and supports the spiritual development of all our students. Reconciliation will take place on Wednesday, December 11th, from 10:00 to 11:30 AM at St. Charles Parish.
CHRISTMAS SPIRIT WEEK
As we head into the final week before Christmas break, let’s make it festive and fun! Students are not required to wear uniforms during this time, so feel free to dress up and show your holiday spirit.
Whether it’s wearing your favorite Christmas sweater, festive colors, or dressing up in something cheerful, let’s celebrate the season together and end the year on a joyful note!The toques have arrived and have been distributed to students who ordered them. If you still need to make a payment or pick up your order, please contact the school.
Please see the Weekly Update .pdf at the bottom of the page for a listing of dress for each day of Spirit Week.
Learn-to-Skate REMINDER
The Learn-to-Skate program for kindergarten to Grade 2 students will begin on January 6th, 2024. An email with all the necessary details will be sent out next week. If you have any questions in the meantime, please don’t hesitate to reach out!
DOORS IN GYM
We are excited to have our new gym doors, which arrived on Tuesday and were installed promptly. These doors enhance both security and soundproofing for our school. They will be painted during the Christmas break to complete the upgrade.
GRADE 2 NEWS
Mrs. McIsaac, our Grade 2 teacher, will be starting her maternity leave, with her last day being December 20th. We wish her all the best as she prepares to welcome her new little one—baby blessings to her and her family!
We are pleased to announce that Mrs. Tricia Schulz will be covering her maternity leave and will officially begin on January 6th, 2025. Welcome, Mrs. Schulz!
GRADE 6M SCIENCE
We explored the diversity of living things, focusing on arthropods. Students learned about the characteristics, diets, habitats, and adaptations of crustaceans, myriapods, insects, and arachnids.
Using their knowledge, 6M designed and created their own unique arthropods using household items. Each project was accompanied by a detailed brochure and a lab report outlining their scientific design process. The completed projects were then showcased in the library, allowing all students to admire their creativity and effort.
Great job, everyone!
CANDY-CANE ORDER
To help raise funds for the Musical. You can order a special candy-cane for $1 for your child, friend, classmates, or teachers. Each will have a special Christmas tag attached to it. Candy-Canes will be distributed on Tuesday, Dec. 17th to each classroom.
All orders must be in by 6:00 pm on Thursday, Dec. 12th. Please use the Permission Click link TO PLACE YOUR ORDER: https://permission.click/7EeJg/ca
FOOD HAMPERS
We are collecting food items for two different families from one of our local parishes. Each class is asked to contribute specific items. Here is the list:
KF/KL: jello, rice, canned tuna
Gr. 1: mac and cheese, tea
Gr. 1-2: cookies, stuffing
Gr. 2: gravy mix, peanut butter
Gr. 3: canned spaghetti, oatmeal
Gr. 3-4: jam, canned fruit, scalloped potatoes
Gr. 4: coffee, syrup, canned vegetables
Gr. 5: cereal, pancake mix
Gr. 6C: sugar, canned soup
Gr. 6M: cranberry sauce, bagged candy
Gr. 7: spaghetti sauce, pork and beans
Gr. 8: fruit juice, cake mix
TURF CAMPAIGN – FROM THE GROUND UP – HELP BUILD OUR PLAYGROUND
THANK YOU to our SCCS community for your generosity and support on Giving Tuesday. We are currently compiling the donations and will share an update with you next week. Visit our link for more information. Thank you in advance for your generosity and support!
Here is a video preview link of the turf project completed by Venture Landscaping:
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” -Matthew 5:9
In Advent, we are called to prepare our hearts and lives to welcome Christ, the Prince of Peace, by striving to be peacemakers in our own families, communities, and the world.
Have a great weekend!
Aneta Prettie PRINCIPAL
St. Charles Catholic School Phone: 204-837-1520 ext. 222
As we wrap up another exciting week at St. Charles Catholic School, I want to take a moment to share how incredibly proud I am of our students. This week, we had the opportunity to send several classes on field trips, and I received such positive feedback from all our teachers about our students’ behavior and engagement. The students not only followed expectations but also truly embraced the chance to learn and explore outside the classroom. It’s a lot of work and planning that goes into these events and seeing how much the students enjoy them makes it all worthwhile.
This week has also been filled with remarkable leadership moments. Our choirs came together to rehearse with our musicians, and the sound is incredible! It’s a true testament to the hard work and dedication of our students, especially the 200 voices of our 3-8 choir. I am so excited to see them perform their final piece on December 13th.
Additionally, our ambassadors put in so much effort preparing for the Kinder Open House. The event was a success because of the teamwork and leadership of both the students and staff. I truly appreciate everyone’s support in making this such a special occasion for our school.
As we embrace the cold weather this week, especially with some extremes in the mornings, I am reminded of the warmth our school community brings. It is always a great start to my day to see the smiling faces and hear the warm greetings as I stand in the loading zone. I truly enjoy helping ensure everyone’s safety, and I appreciate all the drivers who do their part to make that happen.
Thank you also for your patience as the work on our foundation continues. This week, they finished the excavation, and next week, they will be waterproofing the area and closing the foundation. We are looking forward to getting our front entrance back very soon!
Thank you all for contributing to such a wonderful week. I am continuously inspired by the leadership and enthusiasm shown by our students and staff.
TAKE A LOOK AT WHAT HAPPENED THIS WEEK …
Musical Candy Cane-Grams Fundraiser!
Advisory Groups and Hockey Enrichment
Kinder Open House
Grade 1-2 Manitoba Museum field trip
Wednesday Pizza Fundraising Lunch
SCCS Christmas Craft Market is tomorrow, Nov 30th!
LOOKING AHEAD TO NEXT WEEK …
Advent begins on Sunday, Dec 1st, 2024
Advisory Groups and Hockey Enrichment continue Tuesday
PML Lunch Hour Recitals on Tuesday, Dec 3rd
PML Recitals at OLPH on Wednesday, Dec 4th and Thursday, Dec 5th at 630 pm
Wednesday Hot Dog/Subway Fundraising Lunch for those who have ordered
Early Dismissal on Thursday, Dec 5th 230 pm
Raffle Ticket draw on Friday, Dec 6th at 1 pm – get your tickets into the Front Office!
St. Nicholas Day is on Friday, Dec 6th Assembly at 115 pm!
LOOK WHAT’S COMING UP …
Grade 6-8 Band Concert at St. Paul the Apostle on December 12th at 630 pm
SCCS Matinee & Evening Christmas Concerts at St. Paul the Apostle on December 13th at 130 pm and 630 pm
Enrichment Classes and Hockey Enrichment
Reconciliation for Grade 5-8 Students
Christmas Spirit Week – watch for details!
There is NO MILK or LUNCH program on December 13th or 20th.
More detailed information can be found on the school website, in the calendar section under Parent Zone!
IMPORTANT PARKING INFORMATION
Thank you to everyone in our community for following the parking protocols and signage to help keep everyone safe. Reminder, there is NO PARKING in the loading zone. It is also a NO IDLE ZONE.
We are ALWAYS looking for volunteers to help with this initiative. As a thank you, FREE BASC (Before and After School Care) is being offered to our volunteers. You can sign up directly here: PARKING LOT & LOADING ZONE PATROL | Monday to Friday
BASC
Happy December! Please be sure to submit your forms if your child will be attending BASC this month.
BLINE will be held on Monday and Wednesday.
Early dismissal is on Thursday.
There are still a few spots available for Christmas Craft.
New offerings in January include:
Chocolate Cake Bake
Apple Crisp Bake
Sushi Rolling
New Year Craft
BLINE starting over.
Forms for these activities are available at the front entrance and spots are limited. Please note, there will be NO PM BASC on December 20th and NO BASC during the Christmas Break. Feel free to contact me with any questions at 204-880-8245 or email kfurutani@stccs.ca.
CAR CHECKS – UPDATE!
Most Child Abuse Registry (CAR) Checks that were submitted in September 2024 have been returned to us here in the SCCS Front Office. Any CARC applications that were submitted in October or November are still being processed by the CAR office in downtown Winnipeg. If you would like to inquire to see if your CARC has been cleared and is on file in the SCCS Front Office, please email reception@stccs.ca. Thank you to all the parents who filled out this paperwork!
MUSIC PROGRAM ANNOUNCEMENTS
Please note that we have a change in location for our Annual Christmas Concerts, along with the addition of a new concert this year. Please save the dates! It is important that all students attend the evening concerts to ensure full class representation. We have been working hard on these performances since September, and we’re excited to share them with you!
Private Music Lessons Recitals: December 4th and 5th @ 6:30pm @ OLPH, 4588 Roblin Blvd. Students to arrive @ 6:00pm.
Band Concert (All Grade 6-8 Students): December 12th @ 6:30pm @ St. Paul the Apostle, 2400 Portage Ave. Students to arrive @ 6:00pm (in school uniform).
Christmas Concerts (All K-8 students): December 13th @ 1:30pm and 6:30pm @ St. Paul the Apostle, 2400 Portage Ave.
1:30pm Concert: Students will be bussed (in school uniform)
At our school, we are proud to have two key leadership groups comprised of Grade 6-8 students.
The first is our Student Ambassadors. These students play a vital role in welcoming prospective families and students to St. Charles Catholic School. They lead interactive tours, sharing the school’s history, important facts, and personal experiences. By answering questions and offering their unique perspectives, they serve as outstanding representatives of our student body.
The second group is our Wind Ambassadors. These students are passionate about music and eager to take their talents beyond the classroom. They enrich our school community by performing at assemblies, Open House events, concerts, and festivals. Their dedication allows them to tackle advanced musical pieces and contribute to the vibrant culture of St. Charles.
CHOCOLATE FUNDRAISER
SCCS has a unique opportunity to connect with our parishes through our annual chocolate and raffle ticket sales. It’s an excellent way to bridge the connection between each parish and our school. It is also a great opportunity for our students to develop social and math skills, as well as good customer service, showcasing our great community. We have heard from families that cost is a concern, as is unsold product. Moving forward, families are permitted to take a box of chocolates and a raffle booklet to sell at Parish Masses at no cost, simply pick up on Friday from reception and return any unsold chocolate/raffle tickets on Monday. VIP hours will remain at 1.5 hours for each mass.
RAFFLE TICKETS
If you still have raffle tickets to hand in, please get them into the Front Office by Friday, December 6th in time for the 1 pm draw!
Are you interested in earning VIP Hours? Can you sell more raffle ticket booklets? Earn 1 VIP Hour for each additional raffle ticket booklet you sell. Please see the Front Office for details!
EMERGENCY DRILLS
This week, we conducted two emergency practice drills on Thursday afternoon. The first was a Hold & Secure Drill, followed by a Lockdown Drill. Our staff and students did an excellent job, following all safety protocols. Teachers prepared their students in advance with age-appropriate discussions to ensure everyone felt informed and comfortable with the process.
We will hold these drills again in the spring as part of our ongoing commitment to safety and preparedness.
TOQUES
The toques have arrived and have been distributed to students who ordered them. If you still need to make a payment or pick up your order, please contact the school.
If you’re interested in purchasing a toque, we have extras available in the school office—don’t miss out!
MANITOBA MUSEUM
This Wednesday, Grade 1, 1/2, and 2 classes enjoyed an all-day field trip to the Manitoba Museum. Students were placed into small groups and participated in a variety of engaging activities throughout the day.
A heartfelt thank you to all the parent volunteers who joined us—you made this day possible, and your support was greatly appreciated! As you can see from the photos, the students had an incredible time exploring and learning through the various activities included in this day.
VOLLEYBALL SEASON
Congratulations to the Developmental Girls’ volleyball team who had a great season this year. Each player worked hard to improve their skills and grow as a player each practice and game. We are very proud of the girls and how far they have come this season. They should be very proud of the growth they have achieved as athletes. Thank you to all the players and parents who supported the team this season! Way to go Chargers! Miss McEvoy and Mrs. Froystad
Congratulations to the Developmental Boys’ volleyball team on their season. They made so much progress in their skills, communication, and teamwork. The boys had several very close, nail-biting games where they were challenged to work as a team, keep a positive attitude and learn from their mistakes. They were able to implement the drills we practiced and take feedback on the court to come out with the win in two games and win several more sets in other games! We are very proud of you all and your hard work! Go Chargers! Mrs. Chliboyko
The Competitive Girls’ volleyball team had an excellent season this year! They finished the season with 6 wins and 2 losses. Every game was played with determination, positivity and teamwork. Throughout the season all the players improved their skills. The girls’ team was very proud to make Tier 1 playoffs this year but unfortunately lost both hard fought playoff games. They finished the season in 7th out of 17 teams. It was certainly a season to be proud of! Mrs. Boughton
The Competitive Boys’ volleyball team had a great season! They have worked hard mastering certain positions, working on overhand serves and playing as a team. This season every single athlete improved and learned a ton. They worked together and played some strong games. The athletes did great during the regular season finishing 7th out of 15 teams. The boys played well in playoffs including enjoying the large St. Paul’s courts. The boys are passing the volleyball off to next year’s competitive team as all athletes played their last SCCS volleyball game. Congratulations on the amazing season! 3 – 2 -1 Chargers! Ms. Copeland
CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
Last Friday, the Grade 3, 3-4, and 4 classes had the opportunity to visit the Manitoba Children’s Museum for a fun-filled day of exploration and learning. The students thoroughly enjoyed exploring the museum exhibits, engaging in hands-on crafts, playing, and learning together in a dynamic and interactive environment.
As part of the visit, each group participated in two educational sessions that tied directly into our Social Studies and Science curriculums. These sessions covered fascinating topics such as Teepees, the Land & Us, where students learned about Indigenous perspectives and connections to the land, Tracks and Scats, which provided insight into local wildlife and their habitats, and This New House, an exploration of structures and the science behind them.
A special thank you goes out to our parent volunteers who joined us on this trip. We are so grateful for your time and support!
CANDY-CANE ORDER
To help raise funds for the Musical. You can order a special candy-cane for $1 for your child, friend, classmates, or teachers. Each will have a special Christmas tag attached to it. Candy-Canes will be distributed on Tuesday, Dec. 17th to each classroom.
All orders must be in by 6:00 pm on Thursday, Dec. 12th. Please use the Permission Click link TO PLACE YOUR ORDER: https://permission.click/7EeJg/ca
MFIS RECEPTION AT THE LEG
On Monday, myself and 4 Grade 6 students attended the Manitoba Federation of Independent Schools Reception at the Manitoba Legislature Building. We were warmly welcomed by our Superintendent, Mr. Praznik, and Mrs. Narynski, who is a member of the MFIS Board of Directors.
We also had the chance to meet our MLA, Mr. Oxenham, who expressed interest in visiting our school this year.
The students enjoyed some delicious refreshments and were treated to two fantastic performances: a dance by Freedom School and a song by St. Aidan’s School. The Minister of Education also spoke, reaffirming the government’s support for Independent Schools. Overall, it was an incredible experience, and I was so proud of each of my students. They were confident, engaged, and eager to connect with students from other Independent Schools.
FOOD HAMPERS
Our Christmas food hamper drive kicks off next week! We are collecting food items for two different families from one of our local parishes. Each class is asked to contribute specific items. Here is the list:
KF/KL: jello, rice, canned tuna
Gr. 1: mac and cheese, tea
Gr. 1-2: cookies, stuffing
Gr. 2: gravy mix, peanut butter
Gr. 3: canned spaghetti, oatmeal
Gr. 3-4: jam, canned fruit, scalloped potatoes
Gr. 4: coffee, syrup, canned vegetables
Gr. 5: cereal, pancake mix
Gr. 6C: sugar, canned soup
Gr. 6M: cranberry sauce, bagged candy
Gr. 7: spaghetti sauce, pork and beans
Gr. 8: fruit juice, cake mix
TURF CAMPAIGN – FROM THE GROUND UP – HELP BUILD OUR PLAYGROUND
We are asking for your help! Visit our link for more information. So far, we have raised $43,920. You can track our progress on the website. Thank you in advance for your generosity and support!
Here is a video preview link of the turf project completed by Venture Landscaping:
Looking back on this week, the themes of preparation and anticipation truly stand out. Our teaching staff has been hard at work completing first-term report cards, a process that requires meticulous attention to detail along with the additional tasks of checking, processing, printing, and preparing them for distribution. It’s a collaborative effort, with support from our entire team, and I am grateful for everyone’s contributions.
Reading through each report has been an inspiring experience. The growth, progress, and hard work of every student are evident, along with thoughtful goals for the next term that highlight their commitment to academic excellence. I am incredibly proud of all that our students have achieved so far, made possible by the dedication and teamwork of our exceptional staff.
This week has also been filled with excitement as students head out on field trips, embracing new experiences and hands-on learning that enriches their education. At the same time, our community is busily preparing for the upcoming Christmas concerts and PML recitals. The dedication and creativity going into these events promise to make them truly memorable celebrations of our students’ talents.
Meanwhile, our Buildings & Grounds team has also been hard at work, completing significant upgrades. The boiler system installation, which began in May, is now fully finished with four new high-efficiency boilers. Our gymnasium also received a major update this week, featuring 12 new LED lights, 6 industrial fans, 4 spotlights, and a freshly painted stage. These improvements enhance our facilities for everyone and create a more welcoming and functional space.
With only four weeks remaining until Christmas break, there is so much to look forward to. Let’s embrace the joy of this season, the achievements of the term, and the opportunities for learning and connection that lie ahead in term 2.
TAKE A LOOK AT WHAT HAPPENED THIS WEEK …
School Mass
Musical Bake Sale
Subway/Hot Dog Wednesday Fundraising Lunch
MB Moose – Project 11 field trip for Grades 5-8 students
Children’s Museum field trip for Grades 3-4 students
Report Cards were distributed & PowerSchool Parent Portal has re-opened
Music rehearsals
Volleyball practices & Games
Reading Club
Our Koats for Kids collection has wrapped up
LOOKING AHEAD TO NEXT WEEK …
Musical Candy Cane-gram starts on Monday – watch for details below!
Advisory Classes & Hockey Enrichment continue Tuesday
Kinder Open House Tuesday, November 26th at 630 pm
MB Museum Field Trip for Grades 1-2 on Wednesday, November 27th
Wednesday Fundraising Pizza Lunch for those who have ordered
SCCS Christmas Craft Market here at school on Saturday, November 30th
LOOK WHAT’S COMING UP …
The Season of Advent begins December 1st
PML Lunch Hour Recital December 3rd
PML Evening Recitals at OLPH 630 pm December 4th & 5th
Early Dismissal December 5th 230 pm dismissal
St. Nicholas Day December 6th with an assembly to celebrate at 115 pm
SCCS Raffle draw at 1 pm on December 6th – submit your raffle ticket booklets if you haven’t already!
Grade 6-8 Band Concert, Reconciliation, SCCS Matinee & Evening Christmas Concerts, and Christmas Spirit Week – watch for details!
No lunch programs on December 13th and 20th.
More detailed information can be found on the school website, in the calendar section under Parent Zone!
IMPORTANT PARKING INFORMATION
Thank you to everyone in our community for following the parking protocols and signage to help keep everyone safe. Reminder, there is NO PARKING in the loading zone. It is also a NO IDLE ZONE. Please be KIND to the parent volunteers.
We are ALWAYS looking for volunteers to help with this initiative. As a thank you, FREE BASC (Before and After School Care) is being offered to our volunteers. You can sign up directly here: PARKING LOT & LOADING ZONE PATROL | Monday to Friday
BASC
Update:
BLINE: Sessions are on Monday and Wednesday.
Christmas Craft: A few spots are still available.
December BASC Form: Due next week.
No PM BASC: Please note there will be no PM BASC on December 20th.
Reminders:
If your child arrives at school before 8:15 am, they will be sent to BASC, which incurs a fee.
For safety reasons, we lock the gates when BASC is outside. Please use the front doors and your fob to enter.
Please note that craft activities will not be completed before 4:45 pm. When signing up, ensure your child can stay until then, or plan to wait until the activity is finished.
January BASC Information:
Forms are available in the front entrance and will soon be posted on the website.
January activities include cake baking, apple crisp baking, sushi rolling, a new session of BLINE, a New Year craft, and full-day BASC with fun activities at school (no field trips).
Feel free to contact me for any questions about BASC at 204-880-8245 or email kfurutani@stccs.ca
Thank you, Ms. Furutani.
CAR CHECKS – UPDATE!
Most Child Abuse Registry (CAR) Checks that were submitted in September 2024 have been returned to us here in the SCCS Front Office. Any CARC applications that were submitted in October or November are still being processed by the CAR office in downtown Winnipeg. If you would like to inquire to see if your CARC has been cleared and is on file in the SCCS Front Office, please email reception@stccs.ca. Thank you to all the parents who filled out this paperwork!
MUSIC PROGRAM ANNOUNCEMENTS
Please note that we have a change in location for our Annual Christmas Concerts, along with the addition of a new concert this year. They all occur at one of our sponsoring parishes! A detailed information package will be emailed soon, but in the meantime, please save the dates! It is important that all students attend the evening concerts to ensure full class representation. We have been working hard on these performances since September, and we’re excited to share them with you!
Private Music Lessons Recitals: December 4th and 5th @ 6:30pm @ OLPH, 4588 Roblin Blvd. Students to arrive @ 6:00pm.
Band Concert (All Grade 6-8 Students): December 12th @ 6:30pm @ St. Paul the Apostle, 2400 Portage Ave. Students to arrive @ 6:00pm (in school uniform).
Christmas Concerts (All K-8 students): December 13th @ 1:30pm and 6:30pm @ St. Paul the Apostle, 2400 Portage Ave.
1:30pm Concert: Students will be bussed (in school uniform)
If you have a child ready for Kindergarten in the Fall (birth year 2020), please contact sec@stccs.ca for your registration package. We start accepting applications on November 27th.
SCCS has a unique opportunity to connect with our parishes through our annual chocolate and raffle ticket sales. It’s an excellent way to bridge the connection between each parish and our school. It is also a great opportunity for our students to develop social and math skills, as well as good customer service, showcasing our great community. We have heard from families that cost is a concern, as is unsold product. Moving forward, families are permitted to take a box of chocolates and a raffle booklet to sell at Parish Masses at no cost, simply pick up on Friday from reception and return any unsold chocolate/raffle tickets on Monday. VIP hours will remain at 1.5 hours for each mass.
RAFFLE TICKETS
If you still have raffle tickets to hand in, please get them into the Front Office by Friday, December 6th in time for the 1 pm draw!
Are you interested in earning VIP Hours? Can you sell more raffle ticket booklets? Earn 1 VIP Hour for each additional raffle ticket booklet you sell. Please see the Front Office for details!
KOATS FOR KIDS
We’ve collected several boxes of winter clothing—way to go, Chargers! Thank you to the Safe & Caring Schools Committee for organizing this for our school community. A huge thank you to everyone who contributed!
TOQUES
The toques have arrived and have been distributed to students who ordered them. If you still need to make a payment or pick up your order, please contact the school.
If you’re interested in purchasing a toque, we have extras available in the school office—don’t miss out!
RECYCLING CLUB
Did you know we have a student recycling club? Every day, a group of dedicated students collect paper recycling from all the classrooms and offices. There are also recycling containers for all drink containers situated around the school.
A big thank you to this amazing group of students for their commitment!
As the saying goes, “Recycling turns things into other things, which is like magic.” Let’s all do our part to protect our planet!
MOOSE GAME
On Thursday, our Grade 5-8 students had the exciting opportunity to attend the Project 11 Manitoba Moose Game!
This event was more than just hockey—it was an incredible experience that combined the thrill of the game with a powerful message about mental health and wellness.
Students enjoyed the chance to cheer on the MB Moose, connect with their classmates, and reflect on the importance of taking care of their mental health.
Thank you to Project 11 for hosting such an inspiring event and for promoting positive mental health strategies for youth. Thank you to all the teachers who helped to organize this event for our students. It was a memorable day!
LOOKING FOR HELP WITH WOOD FLOOR REFINISHING
I’m reaching out to see if anyone in our community has the skillset and interest in refinishing wood floors. If this is something you’re experienced with or would like to help with, please let me know!
GYM
Exciting news! Today, two lifts were delivered to our building in preparation for the installation of six ceiling fans and new LED lighting in the gym next week—an amazing uplift for our gym!
During this time, the gym will be closed, and some gym classes may be relocated to our amazing turf field or the Parish fields. Please ensure students are dressed appropriately for outdoor weather.
Thank you for your understanding as we work to enhance our facilities!
CANDY-CANE ORDER
To help raise funds for the Musical. You can order a special candy-cane for $1 for your child, friend, classmates, or teachers. Each will have a special Christmas tag attached to it. Candy-Canes will be distributed on Tuesday, Dec. 17th to each classroom.
All orders must be in by 6:00pm on Thursday, Dec. 12th. Please use the Permission Click link TO PLACE YOUR ORDER: https://permission.click/7EeJg/ca
BAKE SALE
Thank you all for your amazing support with the bake sale! There were so many delicious treats to enjoy, and your contributions directly support the success of our musical.
TURF CAMPAIGN – FROM THE GROUND UP – HELP BUILD OUR PLAYGROUND
We are asking for your help! Visit our link for more information. So far, we have raised $43,920. You can track our progress on the website. Thank you in advance for your generosity and support!
Here is a video preview link of the turf project completed by Venture Landscaping:
String and Wind Ambassadors, and Song Leaders continued rehearsals
Library Reading Club
Koats for Kids collection
LOOKING AHEAD TO NEXT WEEK …
School Mass Tuesday, November 19th at 1030 am at St. Charles Parish – ALL ARE WELCOME!
Musical Bake Sale Tuesday, November 19th
Subway/Hot Dog Wednesday Fundraising Lunch for those who have ordered
Grades 5-8 MB Moose – Project 11 field trip on Thursday, November 21st
Report Cards distributed on November 21st and PowerSchool Parent Portal re-opens
Grades 3/4/3-4 Children’s Museum field trip on Friday, November 22nd
String and Wind Ambassador and Song Leaders rehearsals, Reading Club
Last week for the Koats for Kids collection
SPHS Volleyball Playoffs on the weekend
LOOK WHAT’S COMING UP …
Musical Candy Cane-gram begins the last week of November – watch for details!
Kinder Open House on Tuesday, November 26th at 630 pm
MB Museum Field Trip for Grades 1/2/1-2 on Wednesday, November 27th
Wednesday Fundraising Pizza Lunch
SCCS Christmas Craft Market Saturday, November 30th here at school
More detailed information can be found on the school website, in the calendar section under Parent Zone!
IMPORTANT PARKING INFORMATION
Thank you to everyone in our community for following the parking protocols and signage to help keep everyone safe. Reminder, there is NO PARKING in the loading zone. It is also a NO IDLE ZONE. Please be KIND to the parent volunteers.
We are ALWAYS looking for volunteers to help with this initiative. As a thank you, FREE BASC (Before and After School Care) is being offered to our volunteers. You can sign up directly here: PARKING LOT & LOADING ZONE PATROL | Monday to Friday
BASC
There is BLINE on Monday.
Tuesday is the Winter Craft.
Curling is on Wednesday.
NO BLINE is scheduled for Wednesday.
BLINE demo & testing is on Wednesday, December 18th at 4:15 in the gym. All are welcome to come.
Please make sure your child has proper clothing for the changing weather, as in BASC we do go outside afterschool.
Feel free to contact me for any questions about BASC at 204-880-8245 or email kfurutani@stccs.ca
Thank you, Ms. Furutani.
FUNDRAISING
The committee is requesting paper plates, as they do not have enough for upcoming pizza lunches. If you can help, please use this link: HELP WITH WEDNESDAY PIZZA & HOT DOG/SUBWAY FUNDRAISING LUNCHES. Every Wednesday, we need your help to prepare and serve the lunches. Please volunteer!
MUSIC PROGRAM ANNOUNCEMENTS
Please note that we have a change in location for our Annual Christmas Concerts, along with the addition of a new concert this year. They all occur at one of our sponsoring parishes! A detailed information package will be emailed soon, but in the meantime, please save the dates! It is important that all students attend the evening concerts to ensure full class representation. We have been working hard on these performances since September, and we’re excited to share them with you!
Private Music Lessons Recitals: December 4th and 5th @ 6:30pm @ OLPH, 4588 Roblin Blvd. Students to arrive @ 6:00pm.
Band Concert (All Grade 6-8 Students): December 12th @ 6:30pm @ St. Paul the Apostle, 2400 Portage Ave. Students to arrive @ 6:00pm (in school uniform).
Christmas Concerts (All K-8 students): December 13th @ 1:30pm and 6:30pm @ St. Paul the Apostle, 2400 Portage Ave.
1:30pm Concert: Students will be bussed (in school uniform)
6:30pm Concert: Students need to arrive @ 6:00pm
WISE Kid-Netic WORKSHOP
On November 14th, the Grade 7 and 8 students participated in two Science/STEM workshops led by Claire Holliday from WISE Kid-Netic Energy.
Grade 7 took part in Science on the Run, a hands-on project exploring polymer chemistry through experiments that introduced the Particle Theory and Heat Unit.
Grade 8 experienced Open Heart Surgery, where they dissected a pig’s heart to study the circulatory system and heart anatomy, enhancing their Cells & Systems unit.
A big thank you to Claire Holliday for sharing her expertise and enthusiasm with our students!
KINDER OPEN HOUSE
If you have a child ready for Kindergarten in the Fall (birth year 2020), please contact sec@stccs.ca for your registration package. We start accepting applications on November 27th.
SCCS has a unique opportunity to connect with our parishes through our annual chocolate and raffle ticket sales. It’s an excellent way to bridge the connection between each parish and our school. It is also a great opportunity for our students to develop social and math skills, as well as good customer service, showcasing our great community. We have heard from families that cost is a concern, as is unsold product. Moving forward, families are permitted to take a box of chocolates and a raffle booklet to sell at Parish Masses at no cost, simply pick up on Friday from reception and return any unsold chocolate/raffle tickets on Monday. VIP hours will remain at 1.5 hours for each mass.
RAFFLE TICKETS
If you still have raffle tickets to hand in, please get them into the Front Office by Friday, December 6th in time for the 1 pm draw!
Are you interested in earning VIP Hours? Can you sell more raffle ticket booklets? Earn 1 VIP Hour for each additional raffle ticket booklet you sell. Please see the Front Office for details!
KOATS FOR KIDS
This is the last week we will be collecting donations for the United Way’s program “Koats for Kids”. We are looking to collect gently used winter gear items. Donations boxes are in the school entrance. Thank you for your support!
The toques have arrived and have been distributed to students who ordered them. If you still need to make a payment or pick up your order, please contact the school.
If you’re interested in purchasing a toque, we have extras available in the school office—don’t miss out!
ROOTS OF EMPATHY
This year, our Grade 5 class will participate in the Roots of Empathy program, led by Mrs. Boughton. This award-winning initiative promotes children’s positive mental health and well-being and has reached over 1.2 million children worldwide since 1996.
Mrs. Boughton will begin a pre-lesson this week before introducing the class to Baby Finn, our “Tiny Teacher,” next week. Over the course of nine visits throughout the school year, students will get to know Baby Finn, celebrate his milestones, observe his emotional cues, and witness the special bond he shares with his parents.
The class and Mrs. Boughton are thrilled to start this meaningful program and look forward to welcoming Baby Finn!
MUSICAL
St. Charles Catholic School is excited to announce our upcoming musical production, MTI Broadway Junior: Dot & the Kangaroo Jr.
In this heartwarming story, a young girl befriends a kangaroo and gains the ability to understand animals. Come see the show to discover the rest of the adventure!
Students in Grades 6-8, along with a few younger performers, will be showcasing their talents at the Winnipeg Art Gallery on Monday, May 5, 2025.
Tickets are $10 and will be available for purchase at the school starting in January. There will be two performances: an afternoon show at 1:30 PM and an evening show at 6:30 PM. More details will follow.
Thank you, Ms. Furutani
BLUE BOMBERS COLOUR DAY
This Friday, we celebrated our Blue Bombers with a “Blue Bombers Colour Day!” Staff and students proudly wore Blue Bombers gear or colors to show support for the best team in the league as they head to the 111th Grey Cup final on Sunday. Go Bombers!
GYM
Exciting news! Today, two lifts were delivered to our building in preparation for the installation of six ceiling fans and new LED lighting in the gym next week—an amazing uplift for our gym!
During this time, the gym will be closed, and some gym classes may be relocated to our amazing turf field or the Parish fields. Please ensure students are dressed appropriately for outdoor weather.
Thank you for your understanding as we work to enhance our facilities!
TRIVIA NIGHT
The event was a great success! A heartfelt thank you to the incredible parent volunteers who organized this fundraiser for our community. With 130 attendees, some big winners, and fantastic prizes, it was a wonderful evening of connection and community building.
TURF CAMPAIGN – FROM THE GROUND UP – HELP BUILD OUR PLAYGROUND
We are asking for your help! Visit our link for more information. So far, we have raised $43,920. You can track our progress on the website. Thank you in advance for your generosity and support!
Here is a video preview link of the turf project completed by Venture Landscaping:
“See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me.” -Isaiah 49:16
This verse reflects God’s eternal remembrance of His people, symbolizing how He keeps us in His care and memory, much like the act of remembrance we observe in November.
Have a great weekend!
Aneta Prettie PRINCIPAL
St. Charles Catholic School Phone: 204-837-1520 ext. 222
As we approach Remembrance Day, our thoughts turn to the profound gift of peace and the sacrifices made to protect it. This week, our school community will pause to honor the men and women who have served our country and those who continue to stand for freedom and justice.
At St. Charles, we strive to cultivate a spirit of peace in the hearts of our students, teaching them the value of compassion, understanding, and unity. This Remembrance Day, let us reflect on the importance of peace, not only in the world around us but in our daily interactions with one another.
May this week inspire us to remember, to pray for peace, and to take steps toward fostering it in our homes and communities.
TAKE A LOOK AT WHAT HAPPENED THIS WEEK …
We celebrated St. Charles Day with a special assembly and an ice cream treat!
Enrichment Classes and Hockey Enrichment
Subway/Hot Dog Fundraising Lunch
We continued our collection for Koats for Kids
String and Wind Ambassadors, and Song Leaders all had practices
Volleyball teams continued their practices and games
Our first PML Lunch Hour Recital
Grade 8 students went on a “No Stone Left Alone” field trip
Rome Trip meeting
We had our Remembrance Day Assembly yesterday morning
Yesterday was Early Dismissal
Today was an Inservice Day
Tonight is Trivia Night at Assiniboia Downs
LOOKING AHEAD TO NEXT WEEK …
Monday, November 11th is Remembrance Day – there is no school and no BASC
PML Make-up Lessons
Enrichment Classes and Hockey Enrichment continue
Pizza Fundraising Lunch for those who have ordered
There is a PAC Meeting on Wednesday, November 13th at 630 pm in our Cafeteria – ALL ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND
Lifetouch Picture Retake Day is Thursday, November 14th – please ensure that your child’s teacher knows that they are to go for retakes when their class is called
Grade 7&8 Science workshops on November 14th
LOOK WHAT’S COMING UP …
School Mass
Musical Bake Sale
Wednesday Fundraising Lunches
Report Card Distribution and PowerSchool re-opens for families
MB Moose – Project 11 Field Trip for Grades 5-8 students
MB Children’s Museum Field Trip for Grades 3-4 students
SPHS Volleyball Playoffs
More detailed information can be found on the school website, in the calendar section under Parent Zone!
IMPORTANT PARKING INFORMATION
Thank you to everyone in our community for following the parking protocols and signage to help keep everyone safe. We are ALWAYS looking for volunteers to help with this initiative. Plus, as a thank you, FREE BASC (Before and After School Care) is being offered to our volunteers. You can sign up directly here: PARKING LOT & LOADING ZONE PATROL | Monday to Friday
BASC
No BASC on Monday.
Tuesday is the Woodburning workshop.
Wednesday is BLINE.
There are still a few spots left in the December Craft.
Feel free to contact me for any questions about BASC at 204-880-8245 or email kfurutani@stccs.ca
Thank you, Ms. Furutani.
FUNDRAISING
The committee is requesting paper plates, as they do not have enough for upcoming pizza lunches. If you can help, please use this link: HELP WITH WEDNESDAY PIZZA & HOT DOG/SUBWAY FUNDRAISING LUNCHES. Every Wednesday, we need your help to prepare and serve the lunches. Please volunteer!
MUSIC PROGRAM ANNOUNCEMENTS
Please note that we have a change in location for our Annual Christmas Concerts, along with the addition of a new concert this year. They all occur at one of our sponsoring parishes! A detailed information package will be emailed soon, but in the meantime, please save the dates! It is important that all students attend the evening concerts to ensure full class representation. We have been working hard on these performances since September, and we’re excited to share them with you!
Private Music Lessons Recitals: December 4th and 5th @ 6:30pm @ OLPH, 4588 Roblin Blvd.
Band Concert (All Grade 6-8 Students): December 12th @ 6:30pm @ St. Paul the Apostle, 2400 Portage Ave. Students to arrive @ 6:00pm (in school uniform).
Christmas Concerts (All K-8 students): December 13th @ 1:30pm and 6:30pm @ St. Paul the Apostle, 2400 Portage Ave.
1:30pm Concert: Students will be bussed (in school uniform)
6:30pm Concert: Students need to arrive @ 6:00pm
SCHOOL PHOTO
In October, we were excited to reestablish one of our cherished traditions at St. Charles Catholic School—our annual school-wide photo. After some time away from this custom, it was wonderful to gather our entire community for a picture that captures the spirit of our school. Our beautiful new turf field made the event even more memorable.
We want to extend a big thank you to Lifetouch for coming out and capturing this moment for us. The photo turned out amazing, and I am excited to share a preview with you all. (see Principal’s Update .pdf link at bottom of page). Soon, it will be proudly displayed in our hallway alongside photos from years past.
REMEMBRANCE DAY ASSEMBLY
Every year, we hold a meaningful assembly to commemorate Remembrance Day, and all families are warmly invited to attend. Our guest speaker this year was Lieutenant Colonel Robert Nash who shared a touching story with our students about Canadian soldiers during World War II and their acts of kindness in Holland.
In an extraordinary act of compassion, the soldiers decided to make a special Christmas gift for a child who had been deeply affected by the war. Using wool army blankets, they crafted a warm coat, finishing it with buttons from their own uniforms. This touching story showcased the soldiers’ selflessness and the impact of small acts of kindness, especially during times of great suffering.
Mr. Nash’s story beautifully illustrated the importance of empathy and generosity—values we work to nurture in our students here at St. Charles.
We were also honored to have four student flag bearers, a beautiful performance by the Grade 6-8 Choir, and a peace poem recitation by the Grade 1-2 class.
CHOCOLATE FUNDRAISER
SCCS has a unique opportunity to connect with our parishes through our annual chocolate and raffle ticket sales. It’s an excellent way to bridge the connection between each parish and our school. It is also a great opportunity for our students to develop social and math skills, as well as good customer service, showcasing our great community. We have heard from families that cost is a concern, as is unsold product. Moving forward, families are permitted to take a box of chocolates and a raffle booklet to sell at Parish Masses at no cost, simply pick up on Friday from reception and return any unsold chocolate/raffle tickets on Monday. VIP hours will remain at 1.5 hours for each mass.
KOATS FOR KIDS
For the next two weeks, we will be collecting donations for the United Way’s program “Koats for Kids”. We are looking to collect gently used winter gear items. Donations boxes are located in the school entrance. Thank you for your support – we had a lot of items donated this week.
ENRICHMENT CLASSES
This term, our Grade 7 and 8 students participated in Enrichment classes, held every Tuesday, where they explored a variety of hands-on, engaging subjects. The students were divided into four groups and rotated through courses in Coding, STEM, Cooking, and Hockey.
In Cooking, students learned essential kitchen skills, focusing on safety and food preparation techniques. They had fun making a variety of delicious dishes, including cookies, dips and sauces, eggs, pancakes, Bannock, quesadillas, and apple crisp.
In STEM, the students completed several exciting projects, culminating in a final challenge where they designed and built catapults, putting their problem-solving and engineering skills to the test.
In Coding, students learned how to write scripts, creating interactive games and programs. They worked through various coding challenges, building their knowledge and confidence in this important 21st-century skill.
These Enrichment classes have provided students with an opportunity to explore new interests, develop practical skills, and collaborate with their peers in a fun, creative environment.
ST. CHARLES DAY
This week, our school gathered for a special prayer service to celebrate the feast day of our patron, St. Charles of Borromeo. The assembly was an opportunity for us to reflect on his life and the values that guide us as a school community.
St. Charles Borromeo was born in 1538 in Italy and became a cardinal and archbishop during a challenging time in the Catholic Church. He played a key role in the Counter-Reformation, working to reform the Church by improving education for priests and promoting spiritual renewal. St. Charles was known for his deep compassion for the poor and sick, especially during times of plague and famine. His life was a model of humility, service, and unwavering devotion to God.
As the patron saint of bishops, catechists, and seminarians, St. Charles had a passion for education and spiritual leadership, making him an ideal namesake for our school. His dedication to learning and helping others reminds us of the values we strive to live by at St. Charles Catholic School.
Our school is named after St. Charles because of his commitment to faith, education, and service. Just as he cared for his community, we too aim to be a place where students grow in knowledge, faith, and compassion.
To celebrate his feast day, we concluded the day with a special ice cream treat for all students—an enjoyable tradition that helps remind us of the joy and community spirit that St. Charles Borromeo inspired.
NO STONE LEFT BEHIND MEMORIAL FOUNDATION’S CEREMONY
The experience I shared with our Grade 8 students and parents at Brookside Cemetery on November 6 was both memorable and moving. Our understanding of Canada’s role in global conflicts deepened as we participated in the No Stone Left Behind Memorial Foundation’s ceremony.
Our students had the honour of placing poppies on the graves of those who served Canada in times of war. This event gave them a meaningful opportunity to learn, reflect, and pay tribute to the veterans who made great sacrifices in service to our country.
As we honour and remember Canada’s fallen veterans, let us also take a moment to reflect on the freedoms and peace we enjoy today. We owe so much to the men and women who served and sacrificed for the life we have.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who made this important event possible for our Grade 8 students and for me. Mr. Domolewski
The No Stone Left Alone ceremony was a respectful ceremony. Standing in front of a gravestone really makes you think about your own life. It makes you think about how I have a family to go home to. A mom, dad and brother who are all there when I get home from school. Knowing that this man Richard Scott who I was standing in front of lost his life and will never be able to go home to his family. And his family not being with him. He could have been a dad or an uncle. I am so grateful for the soldiers who fought in the wars. My heart goes out to all the soldiers’ families who lost someone special in their life. (Grade 8 Student)
TURF CAMPAIGN – FROM THE GROUND UP – HELP BUILD OUR PLAYGROUND
We are asking for your help! Visit our link for more information. So far, we have raised $43,920. Thank you in advance for your generosity and support!
Here is a video preview link of the turf project completed by Venture Landscaping:
“Peace, I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” -John 14:27(NIV)
This passage connects well with the theme of peace, offering a reminder of the lasting peace that Christ gives, which transcends worldly conflicts and anxieties. It can serve as a comforting message during this time of reflection and remembrance.
Have a great LONG weekend!
Aneta Prettie PRINCIPAL
St. Charles Catholic School Phone: 204-837-1520 ext. 222
This week at St. Charles, our classrooms engaged in learning activities and fun around three important days in the Christian calendar: All Hallows’ Eve, All Saints’ Day, and All Souls’ Day. These days are deeply connected, helping us reflect on the saints who inspire us, honor the faithful who have passed on, and remember our own call to holiness.
Our students explored the history and meaning behind these traditions, learning how All Hallows’ Eve (now celebrated as Halloween) serves as a vigil before All Saints’ Day, a time to prepare and honor those who lived lives of great faith. All Souls’ Day, which follows, is a special moment to remember and pray for all the faithful departed.
Through various activities, stories, and celebrations, the children had a wonderful time engaging with these traditions, deepening their understanding of our faith in creative and joyful ways.
Wishing you a blessed All Saints’ Day!
TAKE A LOOK AT WHAT HAPPENED THIS WEEK …
Enrichment Classes and Hockey Enrichment
Presentations by St. Mary’s Academy and St. Paul’s High School for our Grade 8’s
“No Stone Left Alone” Presentation for Grade 8 students
Wednesday was our Pizza Fundraising Lunch for those students who ordered
Black and Orange Colour Day was yesterday
Our Koats for Kids collection is growing
Today we celebrated All Saints Day-a major feast day in the church
LOOKING AHEAD TO NEXT WEEK …
Our St. Charles Day Assembly is on Monday at 215 pm
Enrichment Classes and Hockey Enrichment continue on Tuesday
There will be a PML Lunch Hour Recital on Tuesday in the Music Room at 1135 am
Wednesday is Hot Dog/Subway Fundraising Lunch
“No Stone Left Alone” field trip for Grade 8 students on Wednesday, November 6th
Rome Parent Meeting at 630 pm
Our Remembrance Day Assembly will be held at 1030 am on Thursday, November 7th. All are welcome to attend.
Thursday, November 7th is an Early Dismissal Day; students will be dismissed at 230 pm
Term 1 ends on Thursday, November 7th and PowerSchool will be closed to families to accommodate report card writing at 9AM
Friday, November 8th is an Inservice Day
Trivia Night will be held at Assiniboia Downs on Friday, November 8th at 6 pm
LOOK WHAT’S COMING UP …
November 11th is Remembrance Day; there is no school and no BASC
There will be a PAC Meeting on Wednesday, November 13th at 630 pm
Enrichment Classes and Hockey Enrichment continue
Wednesday Pizza Fundraising lunch for those who have ordered
Lifetouch Picture Re-take Day will be on Thursday, November 14th
Grade 7&8 Kid-Netic science workshops
IMPORTANT PARKING INFORMATION
Thank you to everyone in our community for following the parking protocols and signage to help keep everyone safe. As a reminder, we kindly ask that large trucks avoid parking at the back of the lot, as it makes it difficult for other vehicles to maneuver. Please ensure all vehicles are parked at an angle.We are ALWAYS looking for volunteers to help with this initiative. Plus, as a thank you, FREE BASC (Before and After School Care) is being offered to our volunteers. You can sign up directly here: PARKING LOT & LOADING ZONE PATROL | Monday to Friday
BASC
There is BLINE on Monday and Wednesday.
Curling starts on Wednesday.
Thursday is early dismissal – please note BASC has a different fee.
Friday, NO SCHOOL, BASC field trip is full.
There are still spots left in the Winter Craft.
Reminder if dropped off before 8:15 am there is a BASC fee.
After school for BASC pickup, please make sure to enter the building through the front doors as we lock the gates after school!
From 7 am to 8:15 am, just buzz and then send your child in. We kindly ask that parents say goodbye outside and do not enter the school.
Feel free to contact me for any questions about BASC at 204-880-8245 or email kfurutani@stccs.ca
The Grade 7 & 8 dance, hosted by the Grade 8 Farewell Committee, was a huge success! It was our school’s first-ever dance, and we were thrilled to welcome students from 11 other Catholic schools. Everyone enjoyed the evening, which included a canteen and fun costume contests. A big thank you to the Grade 8 representatives and the many parents who volunteered in various ways to make this event possible!
BUILDINGS & GROUNDS
Exciting Update: New Tiling on Music Room Stairs! I’m happy to share that the stairs leading down to the music room were tiled on Friday, and they look amazing!
REMEMBRANCE DAY ASSEMBLY
Every year, we hold a meaningful assembly to commemorate Remembrance Day, and all families are warmly invited to attend. The assembly will begin at 10:30 AM in the school gym. Our guest speaker this year is General [Last Name]. We will also have student flag bearers, performances by the Grade 6-8 Choir, and a poem recitation by the Grade 1-2 class. As a reminder, if your child is a Cadet, a member of Girl Guides, or in Scouts, they are encouraged to wear their uniform to school on November 7th.
CHOCOLATE FUNDRAISER
SCCS has a unique opportunity to connect with our parishes through our annual chocolate and raffle ticket sales. It’s an excellent way to bridge the connection between each parish and our school. It is also a great opportunity for our students to develop social and math skills, as well as good customer service, showcasing our great community. We have heard from families that cost is a concern, as is unsold product. Moving forward, families are permitted to take a box of chocolates and a raffle booklet to sell at Parish Masses at no cost, simply pick up on Friday from reception and return any unsold chocolate/raffle tickets on Monday. VIP hours will remain at 1.5 hours for each mass.
KOATS FOR KIDS
For the next three weeks, we will be collecting donations for the United Way’s program “Koats for Kids”. We are looking to collect gently used winter gear items. Donations boxes are located in the school entrance. Let’s fill those boxes -Thank you for your support.
ORANGE & BLACK COLOUR DAY
All Hallows’ Eve: From Tradition to Today
As we celebrate Halloween, it’s important to remember the origins of All Hallows’ Eve, the night before All Saints’ Day. Historically, this evening was a vigil where Christians prepared to honor the saints, reflecting on the triumph of light over darkness and the legacy of those who lived holy lives. Over time, customs like wearing costumes and sharing treats emerged from old beliefs about spirits and protection.
Today, while Halloween has become a time for fun, costumes, and candy, its roots in our faith still hold significance. It’s an opportunity for us to teach our children about the importance of community, the saints who came before us, and how we can shine Christ’s light in the world. Here are some pictures of our classes enjoying the festivities! (VIEW IN .PDF AT BOTTOM OF PAGE)
HARVEST MANITOBA
On behalf of Harvest Manitoba, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to you and your team for hosting a successful food drive. Your contributions and efforts have made a significant impact on the lives of many individuals and families in our province who are struggling with food insecurity. The support that you have shown is truly inspiring, and we are immensely grateful for your generosity. I am happy to report that you raised 271lbs of food. Great job SCCS!
TRIVIA NIGHT
Mark your calendars for an exciting evening at our highly anticipated Trivia Night, taking place on November 8th at Assiniboine Downs! LAST CHANCE TO BUY TICKETS IS SUNDAY NOV. 3rd!
St. Charles Day is coming up on Monday, and we’re excited to celebrate our patron saint, known for his connection to apples and the arts. We’ll be holding a special assembly and engaging in activities to learn more about St. Charles and how he serves as a model for us.
We encourage students to bring an apple or an apple-based snack for their lunch on Monday. It will be fun to see how many different apple-snacks our students bring! Thank you for your support in making this day special.
CROSS COUNTRY
This week brought exciting news from the provincial cross-country meet on October 19. Congratulations to our U14 girls team—Kaitlyn, Charlotte, Selina, and Maria—for earning second place!
Their combined team time for the 2km race was an impressive 37:30 minutes.
Well done, team!
TURF CAMPAIGN – FROM THE GROUND UP – HELP BUILD OUR PLAYGROUND
We are asking for your help! Visit our link for more information. So far, we have raised $43,670. Thank you in advance for your generosity and support!
GENEROUS DONORS SUPPORTING OUR TURF CAMPAIGN
Elias Mikos
Rees Family
Chris and Allison Hohl
Thank you!
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses,let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely and let us run withperseverance the race that is set before us.” Hebrews 12:1:
This verse highlights the “great cloud of witnesses”—the saints who have gone before us—while encouraging us to live with faith and perseverance, just as they did.
Have a great weekend!
Aneta Prettie PRINCIPAL
St. Charles Catholic School Phone: 204-837-1520 ext. 222
As we continue our school year, I’ve been reflecting on the incredible sense of community we have at St. Charles Catholic School. Our school is more than just a place for learning—it’s a gathering of people who come together with shared values, beliefs, and a commitment to our children’s growth and success.
In the spirit of this community, I am reminded of the words of St. John Paul II: “Nobody is so poor he has nothing to give, and nobody is so rich he has nothing to receive.” This reminds me that every one of us, no matter how busy or overwhelmed we may feel, has something meaningful to contribute. Whether it’s our time, our talents, or simply our encouragement, we all play a vital role in building this school into a vibrant, welcoming space for everyone.
Community happens when we show up for one another. I see this daily—from parents volunteering to families attending school events, to teachers and staff working tirelessly to provide the best possible learning environment. These acts of support and collaboration make us stronger.
I invite all parents to get involved in any way they can, big or small. We need you, and we appreciate everything you do. Whether it’s joining us for school Mass, helping with school functions, or participating in classroom activities, know that your involvement strengthens the bond we share as a school family.
Together, we can continue to make St. Charles Catholic School not just a place of education, but a thriving, supportive community where our children grow in faith, love, and knowledge.
TAKE A LOOK AT WHAT HAPPENED THIS WEEK …
Spruce Up the School.
Provincial Cross Country meet at Harbourview.
Superhero Scholastic Book Fair ran all this week!
School Mass and Staff Commissioning.
Harvest Manitoba picked up all the donated food items. Thank you to everyone who was able to contribute to this very worthy cause!
Wednesday was Subway/Hot Dog Fundraising Lunch for those students who ordered.
Parent Teacher Interviews ran on Wednesday and Thursday evening.
Staff Appreciation Day was on Thursday.
76 SCCS Toque orders collected. Thank you!
Raffle Tickets are due October 26th.
All Teaching Staff took part in various workshops for MTS PD Day.
Our Grade 8 class is hosting a Halloween Howl Dance tonight as a fundraiser for the Grade 8 Farewell.
Volleyball Teams continued their practices and their games this week!
LOOKING AHEAD TO NEXT WEEK …
Enrichment Classes and Hockey Enrichment will continue next Tuesday.
SMA and SPHS will be here to present to our Grade 8 students.
Pizza Fundraising Lunch is on Wednesday for those students who have ordered.
Grade 8 presentation on “No Stone Left Alone.”
Black and Orange Colour Day will be on Thursday in celebration of All Hallows’ Eve!
We are collecting gently used winter gear for Koats for Kids!
Friday, we celebrate All Saints Day-a major feast day in the church.
LOOK WHAT’S COMING UP …
Our St. Charles Day Assembly is on Monday, November 4th.
PML Lunch Hour Recitals is on November 5th.
Grade 8 Fieldtrip on November 6th.
ROME Trip parent meeting on November 6th at 630pm
Our Remembrance Day Assembly is on November 7th. All are welcome to attend this very special assembly.
Early Dismissal on November 7th.
Friday, November 8th is an Inservice Day/All day BASC/Family Trivia Night.
DO YOU KNOW AN EXCELLENT EDUCATOR?
We are excited to share that nominations are now open for Manitoba’s Excellence in Teaching Awards! This is a wonderful opportunity to recognize outstanding teachers who make a difference in the lives of students every day. If you know a teacher who goes above and beyond, inspiring and supporting students, we encourage you to nominate them. For more information and to submit a nomination, please visit: www.edu.gov.mb.ca/k12/excellence/ Let’s celebrate the incredible educators in our community!
GRANT WRITING COMMITTEE – We Need Your Help!
We are forming a grant writing committee to help secure funding opportunities that can greatly benefit our school. There are many grants available that could support new programs, resources, and improvements for our students, and we are looking for parents who are interested in contributing to this important work.
If you have experience with grant writing or are willing to help, we would love to hear from you! Please reach out to me to find out how you can be involved. Together, we can unlock new possibilities for our school!
CROSS COUNTRY
What an incredible cross-country season we’ve had—our best one yet! This year, we expanded the opportunity to students in Grades 4 to 8, and the turnout exceeded our expectations. Over 50 students joined our run club practices on Thursdays at lunch, and more than 40 athletes represented us at the Manitoba Catholic Schools Cross Country Meet on October 2, with many placing in their events. Practices continued throughout October, and nine athletes went on to compete at the provincial level. We are incredibly proud of each athlete’s dedication, hard work, and achievements. Chargers Strong!
Chris McCombs Provincials: On Saturday, October 19, SCCS was proudly represented by nine athletes at the provincial cross-country race. Every single athlete improved their time—a fantastic accomplishment! Special congratulations to Oliver, who earned second place in the U12 boys’ category.
A big thank you to Ms. Copeland and Mrs. Chliboyko for organizing the practices and attending the cross-country meets. Your dedication and hard work have been invaluable!
SCHOOL MASS
Our first School Mass was truly wonderful!
A lot goes into preparing Mass at school. The music, led by Mrs. Gregorchuk and Mrs. Gingrich on piano, along with the Song Leaders Club, who practice weekly in preparation for our monthly Masses.
Our Grade 3 altar servers, trained by Mrs. Mardis, added to the experience, and the Mass Readers Club, also organized by Mrs. Mardis, prepared the readings.
Thank you to all our students and staff who contributed to making this celebration a success.
Father Eric, our Corporate Board Chair, officiated this Mass. His homily focused on the importance of community, reminding us that we are part of a school community where we spend one-third of our day—a significant amount of time. The people within our community help shape who we become, and St. Charles School is dedicated to fostering an environment that values respect, inclusion, and support for one another.
Also, Father Eric invited each staff member forward for a commissioning and blessing. Together, we are called by God to unite in our mission, strengthened by our collective purpose. In a spirit of faith, hope, and love, we commit to teaching and caring for every child entrusted to us.
HCA
A big thank you to everyone for your generous support of the Holy Childhood Association! We are excited to announce that our first popcorn sale raised an impressive $230. This contribution will go directly toward supporting the work of the HCA and making a positive difference in the lives of children in Chad. The next popcorn sale is in February.
IMPORTANT PARKING INFORMATION
Thank you to everyone in our community for following the parking protocols and signage to help keep everyone safe. We have now completed installing the parking dividers, and the chains are in place. These changes will improve overall parking organization. As a reminder, we kindly ask that large trucks avoid parking at the back of the lot, as it makes it difficult for other vehicles to maneuver. Please ensure all vehicles are parked at an angle.We are ALWAYS looking for volunteers to help with this initiative. Plus, as a thank you, FREE BASC (Before and After School Care) is being offered to our volunteers. You can sign up directly here: PARKING LOT & LOADING ZONE PATROL | Monday to Friday
BASC
There is BLINE on Monday and Wednesday.
the Cheesecake Bake is on Tuesday.
Friday is a new month, please submit your BASC form if you need BASC.
Forms are available in the front entrance or on the website.
Curling & full day BASC are in the first week of November. Registration ends on Monday.
November also has Wood Burning and a Winter Craft.
There is No BASC on November 11th..
Reminder: From 7 am to 8:15 am, just buzz and then send your child in. We kindly ask that parents say goodbye outside and do not enter the school.
Feel free to contact me for any questions about BASC at 204-880-8245 or email kfurutani@stccs.ca
Thank you, Ms. Furutani.
FIELD TRIPS
We have several exciting field trips planned for November! Permission Click emails have been sent to all students in Grades 1-8. Some of the upcoming trips include a visit to Brookside Cemetery for a memorial assembly honoring Canadian veterans, a science workshop where students will learn about dissection, the Project 11 Moose Game, and visits to the Manitoba Children’s Museum and Manitoba Museum. Be sure to check your emails so you don’t miss out! All links can also be found on Parent Zone under Permission Click.
BASKETBALL HOOPS
We would like to thank Mr. Dennis Giguere, grandfather of Norman Giguere, for his generous donation. His contribution allowed us to purchase 4 outdoor basketball hoops. Mr. Giguere also gifted us with two official Sea Bears basketballs. These additions have been a great asset to our school, providing more opportunities for outdoor activities. Thank you, Mr. Giguere, for your many years of ongoing support of St. Charles.
STAFF APPRECIATION LUNCH
A big thank you to the Grade 6 classes for providing an amazing lunch for the staff on Thursday! It was greatly appreciated and enjoyed by everyone. Special thanks to the Grade 6 Parent Reps for organizing the event, and to the parent volunteers who helped with setup on the day.
The lunch was catered by Supper Central, who have been wonderful supporters of our school. If you’re in need of their services, their contact information is listed below. (Go to the .pdf version of the Update at the bottom of this page for more information.)
SCIENCE CELL PROJECTS
The Grade 8 students had an amazing Cell-ibration, selling their Plant and Animal Cells! (There were even cake and fruit cells!)
Students worked incredibly hard on their presentations, pamphlets and cell models, and student tours were viewed on a macroscopic stage!
The Grade 8 Cellular Sales Team showed off this year’s newest models!
Mr. Domolewski and the Grade 8 Cellular Sales Team!
CHOCOLATE FUNDRAISER
SCCS has a unique opportunity to connect with our parishes through our annual chocolate and raffle ticket sales. It’s an excellent way to bridge the connection between each parish and our school. It is also a great opportunity for our students to develop social and math skills, as well as good customer service, showcasing our great community. We have heard from families that cost is a concern, as is unsold product. Moving forward, families are permitted to take a box of chocolates and a raffle booklet to sell at Parish Masses at no cost, simply pick up on Friday from reception and return any unsold chocolate/raffle tickets on Monday. VIP hours will remain at 1.5 hours for each mass.
KOATS FOR KIDS
For the next four weeks, we will be collecting donations this winter season for the United Way’s program “Koats for Kids”. We are looking to collect gently used winter gear items. Donations boxes are located in the school entrance. Thank you for your support.
SCHOLASTIC BOOK FAIR
Our Superhero Scholastic Book Fair has been running all week! A heartfelt thank you to all our volunteers who helped make this event such a tremendous success—you are all superheroes! Special thanks to our organizers, Ms. J, Mrs. Senderewich, and Nikki Roberts, our PAC Chair.
Did you know that the profits from our Book Fairs have enabled us to provide our Library and classrooms with essential resources, including books, carpets, sand tables, audiobooks, science models, reading centers, and many other exciting learning tools? Our Guided Reading materials are also funded through Book Fair profits! The Book Fair plays a vital role in supporting these essential resources in our school and classrooms.
Winners from our various contests included: activity coloring sheets, the “You Got Caught Reading” draw, the with-purchase draws, and the Guessing Game draw.
ST. CHARLES PARISH VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY
On behalf of the St. Charles Night Committee. We are having our St. Charles Night on Saturday, November 2nd which will consist of dinner and entertainment. We are seeking volunteers. Student volunteers are welcome but must be accompanied by a parent.
ORANGE & BLACK COLOUR DAY – Celebrate All Hallows’ Eve!
We’re excited to announce our upcoming Orange & Black Color Day! On October 31! Students are invited to celebrate All Hallows’ Eve, the night before a major Feast Day in the Church: All Saints’ Day. Students can wear orange and black clothing to school. While costumes are not allowed, students are welcome to add a little festive flair with hair accessories, jewelry or small appropriate additions to their outfits. Let’s get into the Hallowe’en spirit while honoring the significance of the season!
TRIVIA NIGHT
Mark your calendars for an exciting evening at our highly anticipated Trivia Night, taking place on November 8th at Assiniboine Downs! This event promises to be filled with fun, laughter, and friendly competition, not to mention plenty of fantastic prizes. Whether you’re a trivia expert or just looking to enjoy a great night out, this is the perfect opportunity to test your knowledge, challenge your friends, and bond with fellow participants in a lively and engaging atmosphere.
Start brushing up on your trivia skills and begin assembling your team, because this is one event you won’t want to miss! Trivia Night is always one of the highlights of the year, and we can’t wait to see you there. Stay tuned for more details coming next week, including team registration information, event schedule, and prize announcements. Prepare for a night full of fun and surprises!
If you child is a Cadet, in Girl Guides or Scouts, they are encouraged to wear their uniform to school on November 7Th.
CRAFT FAIR
The SCCS Christmas Craft Fair is coming …. Saturday, November 30th, 10AM – 3PM. Handmade Goods, Hot Chocolate, Holiday Photos & More. Please save the date! craftfairfundraiser@stccs.ca
TURF CAMPAIGN – FROM THE GROUND UP – HELP BUILD OUR PLAYGROUND
We are asking for your help! Visit our link for more information. So far, we have raised $42,299. Thank you in advance for your generosity and support!
GENEROUS DONORS SUPPORTING OUR TURF CAMPAIGN
Dave & Louisa Guitard
Keith Bilous & Lauren Woroniak
Dennis & Jean Giguere and family
Farkas Freitas Family
Your Academy Chiropractic Team: Dr. Tracy Vieira & Dr. Crystal Paculan
Thank you!
“Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, so it is with Christ’s body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other.” Romans 12:4-5 (NLT)
This passage speaks to the idea that each of us has a role to play within the body of Christ, just as each member of our school community plays an important part in creating a strong, united whole.
Have a great LONG weekend!
Aneta Prettie PRINCIPAL
St. Charles Catholic School Phone: 204-837-1520 ext. 222
