Principal's Message | January 23, 2025

I hope that the winter break offered students and families an opportunity to spend quality time together. We have had some cold days in the month of January and certainly will endure some more cold weather before spring arrives. It is important that students are dressed appropriately for these cold conditions. Winter jackets, winter hats, gloves/mittens, and winter boots are very important to keeping a student warm in cold Alberta temperatures. A reminder that all students that attend Ted Harrison are responsible for getting to school and getting home from school.  Grade 5/6 have outdoor lunch and all students participate in daily physical education which often requires a student to be outside. Appropriate dress is significant in making these opportunities safe and comfortable.  While at school all students have access to a school locker. It is expected that outdoor clothing be placed in their locker. There are no outdoor winter jackets allowed in classrooms other than for physical education.

I am pleased to report that Provincial Legislation in regard to limiting the use of personal electronic devices (cell phones) is being well respected by most students and families. At Ted Harrison School it is expected that phones are either in students bags or lockers during the school day. There is no cell phone use by students in the school building. If you need to connect with your student, or them with you, there is always a land line available.  Please call the office and we can support communication.

Report cards for the first half of the school year will be posted on January 27, 2025.  Please review these report cards with your student(s). It is important to discuss the growth and successes as well as make plans for continual improvement. The halfway point of the year marks another change in your student’s complimentary courses. It is important to note that many of these courses come with fees. Please plan to pay these fees in a timely manner through your parent Power School account. 

I have supported the idea at Ted Harrison School of “being a student first”. This idea supports that students must be at school, on time and prepared for the activities being presented in their classes. This idea acknowledges that when we hold ourselves accountable for our choices and behaviors and we commit to being respectful, caring and supportive of one another, we encounter less conflict within our school day and therefore feel safe to participate in these school activities. Please discuss with your student(s) how they are experiencing school. Should there be issues please reach out to your student’s teacher and/or school administration.

As always, it is a pleasure to be working with the Taradale community as the principal of Ted Harrison School. I thank you all for your support and communication and look forward to the future as this relationship continues to grow. 

Sincerely,

Dr. Don Barbor

Principal, Ted Harrison School