Principal's Message

Topic: A Tribute to the Graduating Class of 2025

Dear Students, Families, and Staff:

As we approach the close of another school year, it is with immense pride and deep gratitude that I reflect on the journey of our graduating class of 2025. This class has been defined not only by its achievements, but by its resilience, unity, and unwavering determination.

The road you’ve walked hasn’t always been easy. You’ve faced challenges that no one could have predicted—global changes, personal obstacles, and the everyday trials of growing up in an ever-changing world. Yet through it all, you stood tall. You supported one another. You adapted. And most importantly, you grew into the thoughtful, capable, and compassionate individuals we see before us today.

Whether in the classroom, on the field, on stage, or in the community, the Class of 2025 has left an unforgettable mark. You’ve led with courage, inspired with creativity, and reminded us all what it means to rise with purpose. As you prepare to leave the halls of this school and step into a world full of possibilities, I hope you carry with you some timeless advice from those who’ve stood where you are now:

• “Do what you say you are going to do!” - Garth Webb

Integrity and honesty are the foundation of trust. Following through on your word especially when it’s hard defines your character and earns lasting respect.

• “Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life.” – Steve Jobs

Follow your heart. It knows the way.

• “Courage can be contagious, and hope can take on a life of its own.” – Michelle Obama

Your strength and optimism can ripple far beyond what you see.

• “There is no such thing as failure. Failure is just life trying to move us in another direction.” – Oprah Winfrey

 Embrace mistakes as stepping stones, not roadblocks.

• “If you're always trying to be normal, you will never know how amazing you can be.” -  Maya Angelou

Step boldly—you have more in you than you realize.

• “Don’t just aspire to make a living. Aspire to make a difference.” – Denzel Washington

Purpose will always take you further than a paycheck alone.

Thank you for all you’ve given to our school—your energy, your ideas, your leadership, and your spirit. As you prepare to step into the next chapter of your lives, know that you leave behind not just memories, but a legacy.

We are incredibly proud of you. Congratulations, Class of 2025—you’ve made it.

With all best wishes for your future,

Luisa Botelho

This year, we have been sharing our Equity & Inclusive Education section on a standalone page on our site. Please click here to read about the various days of significance throughout the year.

Days of significance added this week:

• Nativity of St. John the Baptist - Jun 24

• Al-Hijra New Year - Jun 26

June 2025 Final Evaluation Block

The HDSB school year calendar shows there are 5 designated Exam Days at the end of each semester. The Halton District School Board’s 2024-2025 Ministry approved school year calendar’s semester 2 exams days are from Thursday, June 19 to Wednesday, June 25, 2025. This is referred to as our “Final Evaluation Block”, and students will be completing components of the final 30% of a course’s grade on each of these days. The final 30% takes a variety of formats and could include a performance, written assignment, formal exam, presentation, etc., each of which are referred to as “Final Evaluations”. 

As per Growing Success (page 41), “Final Evaluations will be based on evidence from one or a combination  of the following: an examination, a performance task, an essay, and/or another method of evaluation suitable to the course content. The final evaluation must allow the student an opportunity to demonstrate comprehensive achievement of the overall expectations for the course.”

Here are some details in reference to the the Final Evaluation Block:

• Final evaluations are to be written on the assigned date, except in the case of illness and/or extenuating circumstances. As soon as you become aware of a circumstance that will conflict with any final evaluation date, please have your student complete this Final Evaluation Conflict Request form.

• All final evaluations begin at 9:00 a.m. and are scheduled to be written in the regular classroom unless a change in location is announced by the teacher. 

• Students are to exit the building immediately after they complete their final evaluation each day. Please dress appropriately.

• Click here to see the complete final evaluation schedule (subject to change before June 19). 

• The library will be closed during the final evaluation block and the cafeteria will be closed from June 19 for the rest of the year. 

• The final evaluation schedule follows the format of one evaluation per day based on a Week A schedule:

Mon, June 23 Period 4 Evaluations @ 9 am

Tue, June 24 Period 5 Evaluations @ 9 am

Wed, June 25 Evaluation Make Up Day if needed due to school closure

• If the Board makes a decision to close all schools for any reason, all evaluations will be cancelled for that day and shifted to the final evaluation make-up day - Wednesday, June 25, 2025.

(i.e. If schools were closed on Monday, June 23, Monday's Period 4 evaluations would be cancelled and then written on the evaluation make-up day which is Wednesday, June 25).

Final Evaluation Review Day: Thursday, June 26, 2025

Students will be provided an opportunity to review their work on the Final Evaluations and receive feedback on their evidence of learning. This date will involve a different timetable where attendance is taken and students will meet with their teachers for a short review period. This is the last day of school for Garth Webb students.

The Final Evaluation Review Day Schedule as follows:

Period 1 8:30 - 9:00 AM

Period 2 9:05 - 9:35 AM

Period 4 9:40 - 10:10 AM

Period 5 and Dismissal 10:15 - 10:45 AM

Click here to access a printable version of this message.

Important Update: Environmental SHSM Program

We would like to inform students and families that our school will be phasing out the Environmental Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) program. This decision comes as a result of consistently low enrollment and limited student interest over the past few years. As a result, we will not be enrolling any new Grade 11 students into the program for the 2025–2026 school year.

The 2025–2026 school year will serve as a transition year, allowing current Environmental SHSM students to complete their certifications. We are proud of the opportunities this program has provided and remain committed to supporting our students as they finish their pathway.

Looking ahead, our school is working toward launching a new SHSM program in the 2026–2027 school year. Students and families are encouraged to stay tuned for updates throughout the next school year regarding information about the new program and how to get involved.

Senior T-Shirt Signing

As the school year comes to an end, our seniors are preparing for their next chapter. Among the many traditions that mark this special time, the signing of each other's t-shirts is a new one. Each signature, message, and doodle on a t-shirt represents a friendship, a shared class, or a memorable event. These shirts become cherished keepsakes, reminding them of the laughter, challenges, and triumphs they've shared. The senior t-shirt signing is a beautiful example of the community we've built here at Garth Webb. As our seniors move forward, may they carry these memories with them, always remembering the friendships and experiences that have made their time here so special.

~ Summer Charles, Grade 12 Student

Trustee Newsletter

Thank you to School Trustee for Ward 4 Joanna Oliver for all of her work with and advocacy on behalf of our family of schools this year and for joining us once again at our Commencement Ceremony this coming Wednesday. 

Please click here to read the annual Trustee Newsletter that Joanna has asked us to share with the GWSS community.

Grade 9, 10 & 11 Students not Returning to GW or Starting after September 3, 2025

If your student is currently in grade 9, 10, or 11 and they are not returing to Garth Webb in September or if your student will be arriving at school after the first day on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, it is very important that you fill in the form linked below.

Please note that this form is not for students who are graduating this year and leaving Garth Webb after completing grade 12.

Thank you for your help!

FORM LINK

Ecuador Trip 2026

It's time to register for our international trip to Ecuador March Break 2026! Please read the information slideshow for details. It includes information about safety, our itinerary, service work, cost, payment options, and more! Are you ready for Ecuador? 

Click here to register: eftours.ca/2797949MD

Questions? Email zinkenc@hdsb.ca or call the EF Tours traveler support line at 1-800-263-2806 (available between 9am – 5:30pm). 

Land restoration, personal growth, and Amazonian adventure converge on this misty adventure deep into the vibrant landscape of Ecuador – the only question is: how will it change you?

Save the Date - Post Secondary Pathways Exploration Event

On Wednesday, October 1 and Thursday, October 2, Sheridan College will host the Post-Secondary Pathways Exploration Event for Grade 11, 12, and 12+ students and caregivers. 

More information will be sent to families in September 2025.

Important Message from IT for Students Leaving the HDSB

As of July 12, 2025 students who are not:

• actively registered with HDSB (Summer School), or

• Pre-Registered for the 2025-2026 School Year with HDSB

will lose access to the HDSB Network & Halton Cloud / Google Workspace for Education applications, data, and email.

IMPORTANT:  If you have used your HDSB email when applying for post secondary, resume,  job applications, you will need to update your information and change it to a personal email address before access to your HDSB account is lost.

 To retain your Google Workspace data please see one of the options below:

• Transfer email and Drive files to a personal Google Account using Google Takeout Transfer Your Content - see Transfer their content *Personal G Mail accounts only have 15 GB free drive space. All files in your My Drive will count toward your quota. 

• Archive data using Google Takeout - The traditional Takeout is also available to create an archive of all your data in Google Workspace. 

This will enable you to easily retain your email, essays, resumes, science projects and any other files stored on Google Drive before access has been removed to your HDSB account.

This must be completed before July 12, 2025. Please note that the process can take quite some time to complete so don’t delay!

Be Wise - YMCA

Be Wise program at the YMCA. Be Wise is a free support service for Youth aged 12-18 in the Halton region, through workshops and one-on-ones. 

We’re hosting a few series and workshops throughout the summer for Youth ages 12-18:

• Employment Workshop (Online June 27 and 30): In this two-day session Youth learn how to write a resume, job search and interview techniques. As well as tips and tricks that employers look for when hiring and conducting interviews.

• Thrive series (In person starting July 31): 4-week series, Youth will have the opportunity engage in recreational activities alongside learning valuable life skills through workshops. The program's aim is to promote an active lifestyle in youth while developing teen life skills in a fun, healthy environment. High School students may earn volunteer hours for their contribution. 

• How to Adult Workshops (Online Tuesday's starting July 8): Drop-in information sessions for youth (ages 12-18) to build essential life skills. Topics include Volunteering, financial Literacy, personal care and many more.

CCAH Youth Leadership Summer Program 2025 – Now Accepting Registrations!

The Canadian Caribbean Association of Halton (CCAH) proudly invites high school students to join the 2025 Youth Leadership Summer Program (YLSP) now in its 19th year of empowering young leaders across Halton Region. In partnership with Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) and Sheridan College, the program offers mentorship, impactful dialogue, leadership development, and qualifies for high school community service volunteer hours! 

For more information, and registration details on this summer program click here.

Tuesdays @Ten

Our June Tuesdays @Ten session was on Tuesday, June 10. We were joined by a representative from Sheridan College who provided an virtual information session on OSAP and financially planning for post secondary. An overview of applying to college and university programs at college was included.

Unfortunately, due to a technical glitch, we were unable to record the meeting. Here is a link to the presentation on the same topic from June 2024 which covered much of the same content.

Volunteer Club

Volunteer Club dedicates to provide more volunteering opportunities to our students. Our goal is to make the information more accessible for everyone. We post opportunities weekly with all of the information included in our google classroom! If you want to learn more about our club and wish to find more opportunities, please join our google classroom through code: dtpah5l.

 You can also find us on instagram (@gwss.volunteer), LinkedIn (GWSS Volunteer Club), and Twitter (@gwss_volunteer)! If you have any question, feel free to email us at gwssvolunteerclub@gmail.com.

Opportunity for this week:

St. Luke’s Anglican Church and Community Centre is looking for student volunteers to help this Fall at our Nourishing Neighbours Food program, operated in partnership with Food For Life. 

Volunteers are needed on Thursdays for 2 hours from 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm or 3:45 pm - 5:45 pm at our location, 3114 Dundas Street West. We book volunteers for a month at a time.  

Tasks will include:

• Setting up. This will entail moving chairs, sorting grocery items, and organizing displays. 

• Greeting attendees, restocking displays. 

• Cleaning up. This will entail moving leftover food to our kitchen, breaking down boxes for recycling, and moving chairs and tables. 

Volunteering with our Nourishing Neighbours Food program will allow students to practice communication, organization, and customer service skills, while also participating in meaningful engagement with their community. All volunteer hours are eligible for the 40 community hours required to graduate high school. 

 If interested, students may contact our Nourishing Neighbours Coordinator, Amanda, by email at community1@stlukepalermo.ca.

This week in Co-op, we want to celebrate:

• our Co-op Employers and Community Partners who support and mentor our students

• our dedicated students who are gaining real-world experience, building valuable skills, and representing our school with professionalism and pride!

Follow us on Instagram!

@GWSSCoop 

Class of 2025 Commencement

Date: Wednesday, June 25, 2025

Time: 7:30 -9:30 pm

Location: Sixteen Mile Sports Complex (3070 Neyagawa Blvd, Oakville, ON L6M 4L6)

Entrance: Students will enter through the west entrance on the lower level. Guests will enter through the north entrance (main entrance).

Guests: All guests will check in with staff upon arrival under the student's name. Guest names are on the list and there are no paper tickets needed. All students who asked for an additional ticket (4 guests total) have been informed that they are able to bring their 4th guest.

IMPORTANT: PARKING IS VERY LIMITED AND THERE IS ONLY ENOUGH ROOM FOR 1 VEHICLE PER STUDENT/FAMILY. PLEASE PLAN ACCORDINGLY AND CARPOOL WHERE POSSIBLE. THANK YOU.

Pre Order Gifts for Commencement

Once again this year, The Commencement Group will be  offering flowers and graduation teddy bears for sale for anyone who would like to purchase them for commencement. The Commencement Company has an online store where you can order your items ahead and pick them up at the commencement ceremony on June 25. They will also have a kiosk set up at commencement on June 25 where families can purchase items on the day of if they choose.

LINK FOR PRE ORDERS

Congratulations to the Class of 2025!

We're thrilled to share a special message from the Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, who has sent heartfelt congratulations and inspiring words for all our amazing graduates. Join us in celebrating the achievements and bright futures of these outstanding students! 

Click here

Graduation Coach for Black Students Program

The HDSB Graduation Coach for Black Students Program is hosting the Exploring Us Summer Camp this July! Exploring Us is a free, in-person program for Grade 6-8 students that runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The program strives to affirm the identities of Black-identifying students, foster relationships, unleash creativity and create lasting memories.

Week 1: Roots & Branches: A Journey through Africa | July 8-10

Week 2: Diaspora Dreams: Sailing to the Caribbean | July 15-17

Week 3: Canadian footprints: True North Black and Free | July 22-24

Register today at tinyurl.com/ExploringUs2025 

Youth Vaping, Substance Use & Technology Dependence

The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) has launched the Youth Vaping, Substance Use, and Technology Dependence (Youth-VAST) Program to provide comprehensive, personalized support for Ontario youth (ages 12 to 21) to manage their vaping and other nicotine use, substance use, and excessive technology use. This program offers assessments, group and individual programming, and connections to specialized resources, virtually or in person.

Upcoming Key Dates

Jun 19-25 Semester 2 Final Evaluation Block

Jun 25 Class of 2025 Commencement @Sixteen Mile Creek 7:30 pm

Jun 26 Exam Review Day

Jun 26 Last Day of Classes for Semester 2

Jun 27 Professional Activity Day – No Classes

Jul 2 OUAC/OCAS Upload

Jul 4 Final Report Cards Sent Electronically

Jul 7/8 Diploma Pick Up 9 am - 2 pm