Dear Severn Families,

Welcome back to all our returning students and families, and a warm Severn welcome to those joining our community for the first time! As we begin this exciting new school year, we are reminded of the strength that comes from kindness, connection, and working together. At Severn, we believe in creating a positive, inclusive environment where every student feels seen, supported, and empowered to thrive. We are also thrilled to introduce our new Vice Principal, MaryAnn Stassen, whose passion for student success and commitment to building a caring, collaborative school culture make her a wonderful addition to our team. Together, let’s make this year one of growth, respect, and shared success!

• Our school is still under construction with the plan to be done this Friday.
• Keep an eye on your inbox! Teachers will be sending a warm welcome email to all families on Friday, August 29th, and Tuesday, September 2nd.

Here's a quick heads-up on how the first day will work:

• Kindergarten students will meet their teachers right in their classrooms.
• Grade 1-6 students will meet their teachers in the back schoolyard.

We know the first day can be a bit overwhelming, so we'll have extra staff members all over the school to help everyone get settled and find their way!

Drop off and pick up

This is a reminder that if your child is not on the bus and you are dropping your child(ren) off, please do so between 9 to 9:15 am. School day begins at 9:15 am. Our school parking lot will be closed at that time.  Please ensure you find an alternate location on side streets (on Arkell Str,  Chambers Str)  to park and walk your child to the drop-off points. There is no parking allowed in the front of the school. This is the same process for pick up which is at 3:45 pm.

It is important that all families follow these procedures for the safety of all of our students, staff, families and community members. This year we have 4 buses and two vans for student transportation. They line up in the front of the school in the morning and at the end of the day.  

Please be patient with bussing this year. As the school year progresses the timing of the busses pick up and drop off will get better. Our buses have two runs before us. They drop other students off at other schools that start earlier. We are the last run therefore if there is an issue on the runs before us, it could impact us. That is why if you haven’t done so please register on the OSTA website ottawaschoolbus.ca in the Parent Portal. You will then be aware of any delays or cancellations.

We also have a new crosswalk in front of our school. When driving on Severn Ave please pay attention to students and families that are waiting to cross the road. Cars must stop and allow them to cross the road. We will have staff out near the cross walk at the beginning and end of school to help monitor this.

As we prepare to kick off a new academic year, we want to extend our warmest wishes to all of our students and their families. We are so excited to welcome you back and begin a journey filled with new discoveries, friendships, and growth. This is a special time for our community, and we are looking forward to partnering with you to make this school year a successful and memorable one for every child. Let's make it a fantastic year together!

Sincerely,

Louise Cesario

Principal

Severn Avenue PS