Principal's Message

Topic: Preparing for Final Evaluations – Supporting Student Success Together

Dear Students, Families, and Staff:

As we move into the final stretch of Semester 2, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible work our students have done so far—and to offer support as we begin preparing for final evaluations.

Final evaluations are a key part of the learning process, accounting for 30% of a student’s final grade. These assessments give students the opportunity to independently showcase the knowledge and skills they've developed throughout the semester. Depending on the course, this may take the form of a written test, project, essay, performance task, or another appropriate method determined by the teacher. In line with the principles of Growing Success, these final assessments aim to reflect a broad range of learning evidence gathered throughout the term.

Here’s how we can work together to support student success:

📝 Plan Ahead: Encourage students to create a personalized study plan that outlines what to review, how to prepare, and when to start. Revisiting past assignments, notes, and teacher feedback can provide valuable insights.

❓ Ask Questions: If there are still areas of confusion, students are encouraged to speak with their teachers early. Clarifying concepts now can make a big difference later.

📚 Engage Deeply: Active study methods—such as practice questions, peer study groups, or teaching a concept to someone else—are especially effective.

🏃 Take Care of Well-Being: This is a busy time, and managing stress is just as important as academic prep. Encourage healthy habits like getting enough sleep, eating well, staying active, and taking regular breaks.

Here are two helpful resources for managing stress and staying focused:

• Test Your Best: Tips for Managing Test and Exam Stress

• 12 Instant Stress Busters – Kids Help Phone

We also want to remind students of the importance of regular attendance during this period. Teachers will be reviewing key content and offering guidance that will support students’ success on their final evaluations. If students must be absent, please encourage them to connect with their teachers as soon as possible.

Our staff—teachers, guidance counselors, and administrators—are here to help. Whether your child needs academic support, encouragement, or strategies to manage stress, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

We also encourage families to check in with their children during this time. Ask how they’re feeling about their courses and what kind of support they might need as they prepare. Together, we can create a strong foundation that helps every student finish the semester with confidence.

Finally, I want to thank our entire school community for your partnership. Your support is vital in helping students reach their full potential.

Wishing all our students the very best as they approach this important time. We are proud of their efforts—and we’re here to help them shine.

Other Resources:

• Expansion Packs include content to support Test and Exam stress:

• Test and Exam Stress: Strategies to Perform at Your Best

• Student Journal

• Parent/Caregiver Handout

Stress Management and Coping Strategies: Visualization Strategies - Provides an opportunity to focus on visualizing positive outcomes related to tests and exams. 

Sincerely,

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.

Day of significance added this week:

• Pentecost - Jun 8

School Store Questionnaire

Students, we want your input!

We're exploring the idea of opening a school store and would love to hear your thoughts. Please take a moment to answer a few quick questions to help us understand what you'd like to see in a school store at our school.

CLICK HERE

The HISTORYTELLERS Exhibit! 

In Semester 1, grade 10 History Students in Mr. Duncan's classes completed The HISTORYTELLERS Project, building new historical narratives to tell 2SLGBTQ+ Canadian history. We partnered with Canada's 2SLGBTQ+ Archive (The ArQuives) and had our work edited by amazing and inspiring leaders in the 2SLGBTQ+ community here in Canada. 

Our work will become (link VERY soon) a Virtual Exhibit on The ArQuives website, and through the generosity of the Halton District School Board and Halton Learning Foundation has become a physical exhibit. 

It's finally time to celebrate this achievement, and so I eagerly invite you to attend The HISTORYTELLERS Exhibit at Garth Webb. Drop in, explore the incredible work we've done, and learn a little history too.

This Thursday, June 12 - 6 - 8 pm

Rube Goldberg Machine Fair

On Friday, June 6, the 11U Physics classes held a special event where they showed off their amazing Rube Goldberg Machines.

These machines were created by students who are learning to be engineers and physicists. Each one was a bit wild and very clever. They were made to do a really simple job in the most fun and complicated way you could think of! Imagine a machine that starts with a rolling marble, which then tips over a domino, which hits a toy car, and so on, until it finally pops a balloon. Every machine was a great example of smart thinking and the simple fun of making something silly and complicated. It was a real show of how creative these young minds can be!

Skills Canada Silver Medalists

Getting engaged in the Technological Education courses that GWS has to offer can really take you places! In May, many Garth Webb students competed in the Halton Skills competition. Many of them then went on to Provincial Skills and won medal places. Finally, it was off to the Nationals for two of our grade 11 students! 

Congratulations to Bella Zhao and Tegan Tao for competing at Skills Canada National Competition 2025, in Regina, Saskatchewan and achieving the silver medal, being amongst the best animators in the secondary panel in CANADA! This is a monumental achievement. Bella Zhao and Tegan Tao, we are all very proud of your achievements and look forward to your continued successes. Thank you to Ms. Patterson for her mentorship and for accompanying our students to Nationals!

Canada Wide Science Fair Excellence

We are incredibly proud to announce a series of exceptional achievements by Garth Webb's own Maria Polyanska! 

Back in March, Maria's outstanding project at the Bay Area Science and Engineering Fair earned her a Gold Merit Award, the prestigious 1st Place Canadian Meteorological and Oceanographic Society (CMOS) Award, and the McMaster Venture Academy Scholarship Award.

These accomplishments secured her a well-deserved spot at the Canada-Wide Science Fair (CWSF) which took place this past week. We are thrilled to share that Maria continued her incredible success at the national level, winning an Excellence Award: Gold Medal (placing her in the Top 10 in Canada!) and a Grand Award: Youth Can Innovate Award (recognizing her as one of the Top 4 in the Innovation Category in Canada!)

Adding to this remarkable list of accolades, Maria is now being considered for the shortlist for Team Canada to compete at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona!

Maria's dedication, ingenuity, and hard work are truly inspiring. Please join us in congratulating Maria on these phenomenal achievements!

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:

Thu, June 19 Period 1 Evaluations @ 9 am

Fri, June 20 Period 2 Evaluations @ 9 am

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 Thursday June 19, Thursday's Period 1 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.

Grade 9 Exam Tips & Tricks

🎓 Grade 9 Exam Tips & Tricks Workshop – Hosted by the Student Senate

As we head into the final stretch of the school year, we know that exam season can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry, you’re not alone!

The Student Senate is excited to present a fun and interactive “Tips & Tricks” workshop designed to help our Grade 9s tackle exams with confidence. This session will offer practical advice, study strategies, and time-management hacks to help set students up for success.

📅 Final Workshop Date:

June 11 – Focus on Languages & Social Studies

🕚 Time: 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM (During Lunch Period)

📍 Location: Room 2020

We encourage all Grade 9 students to join us and take advantage of this opportunity to prepare, connect, and feel more confident going into their exams. For any questions, please reach out to the Student Senate directly.

Let’s finish strong, Chargers!

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?

Class of 2025 Valedictorian

After a lengthy and rigorous process, the Class of 2025 chose the person they want to represent them as Valedictorian at this year's commencement ceremony on June 25. Congratulations to Carter Wang on this outstanding achievement! Your hard work, leadership, and dedication over the past four years have clearly made a lasting impact on your peers and the school community. 

From Carter...

I am incredibly grateful and honored to have been selected as the Class of 2025 Valedictorian. During my time at Garth Webb, I made it my goal to ensure that every student feels included, helping to make our school a great place to remember. As President of the Student Activity Council and a student representative on the School Council, I worked toward that goal by organizing spirit weeks, semi-formals, and events that fostered stronger connections among students. One highlight was our boba sale during Asian Heritage Month, where students enjoyed their favorite drinks with friends while ensuring everyone felt appreciated, regardless of background. We also made a consistent effort to incorporate student feedback into our events such as semi-formals to continuously boost school spirit. Overall, I wish all the best to the Class of 2025 and hope to deliver a speech that reflects each student’s unique experiences at Garth Webb at graduation! 

Click here to read Carter's speech for the valedictorian elections.

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.

Gown Packages: Grad gowns and caps will be handed out at school the week before commencement. Students will be informed of the date/time/location via morning announcements and the information will be posted to the Grade 12 google classroom.

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

Cricket Team Update

The varsity cricket team put up a strong fight in the HSSAA cricket tournament finals against Elsie MacGill this past week, ultimately becoming finalists despite not securing the first HSSAA cricket trophy. Garth Webb was a standout, scoring 78 runs in 12 overs. Elsie MacGill successfully chased the total in just 10 overs. Earlier, Hamzeh and Atharv set a solid foundation with an incredible 50-run opening partnership, while Faris bowled exceptionally well, taking two crucial wickets. It was an amazing season overall. Well done in this tournament team! Thank you to Coach Jeyanathan for all his work with the team!

Summer School

Summer school registration is now open.  Please check out Gary Allan’s website for course offerings and timelines.  Registration for courses will occur through myBlueprint.  Also be sure to check out their Frequently Asked Questions.

Tuesdays @Ten June 10 @10 am

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

A link to the session will be sent to families the day prior.

Halton Learning Foundation - Thank a Teacher Campaign

As the school year winds down, the Halton Learning Foundation (HLF) is launching the ‘Thank a Teacher’ campaign, a meaningful initiative to recognize the incredible contributions of teachers and school staff across HDSB.

Who’s the teacher your child talks most about at dinner? 

Maybe they’ve come home with a story that made them laugh. 

Or mentioned how their teacher wears purple every Monday, or has a cat named Marshmallow.

Maybe they told you that their teacher sat with them during break time to discuss a book your child read.

Teachers don’t always know the full impact they have. But you see it, every day — in the confidence your child builds, in the kindness they learn, in the questions they’re excited to ask.

Think of the teacher who made your child feel brave when they felt unsure.

The one who noticed their spark.

The one who wiped their tears.

The one who is retiring this year. 

This is your chance to say thank you.

Instead of buying “The World’s Greatest Teacher” mug, or the perfect gift card, you can thank teachers or a school staff member by making a kind donation to help a student in need in their honor. Visit thankmyteacher.ca

This way, you will appreciate them by showing them what they taught your kids – to be kind, caring, and compassionate.

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.

Homestay Hosts Needed in Halton

Each year, the HDSB’s International Student Program (ISP) welcomes students into schools, and as a result, our programs benefit, our community benefits and local students create lifelong friendships and global connections. Canada Homestay Network (CHN) is currently looking for hosts in Halton for international students joining the HDSB in September. 

Hosting an international student is a unique and rewarding experience. You'll give a young learner a life-changing opportunity while creating lasting memories for your own family. As a host, you provide a private bedroom, three daily meals, access to WiFi and laundry and a welcoming, supportive and safe home. CHN offers full training, 24/7 support and a monthly stipend.

Families who are interested in becoming a homestay host can apply online through the CHN Host Portal: https://hostportal.chnonline.ca/apply 

To learn more, visit whyihost.ca, email hostinfo@canadahomestaynetwork.ca or call 1-877-441-4443.

Upcoming Key Dates

Jun 10 Tuesdays @Ten

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