Category: Events

Sweet Holiday Fun: Cookie Decorating with Mindful and Baking Club!

Ziyou Li (10) | STAFF REPORTER

Get into the holiday spirit with a fun and festive Sugar Cookie Decorating Workshop hosted by Mindful and Baking Club! The workshop took place on December 4th from 2:40 to 4:00 PM in Room 119. For just $3, participants will receive two sugar cookies, icing, and sprinkles to decorate their own personalized Christmas treats. It’s a perfect way to unleash your creativity and celebrate the season with a sweet, hands-on activity. read more

It’s the season of Giving!

Trevor Wu (11) | STAFF REPORTER

Everyone knows Christmas is the season of giving, but that doesn’t have to be bound to just your family and friends, donate to those in need as well! This Christmas season, spread the joy by participating in our Chaplaincy council’s Christmas Baskets donation drive. In our continued school efforts to uplift the community and assist the less fortunate, we have another charity event. However, rather than only donating food, this time we will be contributing hygiene products as well.  read more

French Council Christmas Card Sales

Timothy Wu (11) | Staff Reporter

From December 6 to December 10, the French council will be hosting a festive and charitable Christmas card sale. Between the stated dates, Christmas cards, costing $1.50 for one or $4 for three, will be available for purchase outside of the cafeteria during all three lunches. These cards will also come along with candy, likely Christmas-themed. As for the incentives, each card bought will count as an entry into a raffle for a chance to win a Squishmallow — a giant, cute, super soft plushie. Additionally, all proceeds from the sale will be donated to Holiday Heroes, a non-profit organization that aims to provide cheer to pediatric patients through a combination of in-person and virtual programs. read more

Illuminating Senior Homes One Letter At A Time

Trevor Wu (11) | STAFF REPORTER

Our own Social Justice Council in collaboration with the Senior Smiles Club recently hosted the Sending Sunshine event to support the elderly in our community. This took place on Tuesday, November 19 in the cafeteria after school. The goal of the workshop was to write positive letters of encouragement to eventually be sent to seniors. The Senior Smiles Club has partnered with an elderly home in order to provide for the local community. This was an excellent opportunity for students to accumulate volunteering hours, while creating a positive impact for those who might need it. Many elderly individuals experience lots of emotional distress, whether due to old age, loss of loved ones, or loneliness. Sometimes even just receiving a cheerful, heartfelt letter is all they need. read more

The OSSLT: A Key Step Towards Graduation

Ziyou Li (10) | STAFF REPORTER

For Grade 10 students at STR, the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test, or OSSLT, is a mandatory evaluation. The Education Quality and Accountability Office conducts the test, which evaluates students reading and writing. The OSSLT was held on November 19 and 20 this year and included both multiple-choice and short-answer questions with a focus on written communication, investigation, and understanding. In Ontario, passing the OSSLT is a requirement for graduation, and students must pass it in order to obtain their diploma.

In order to prepare students for success in the classroom and in their jobs, the OSSLT is essential. Success in high school, post-secondary education, the workforce, and daily life all depend on having strong literacy abilities, particularly in reading and writing. The ability to read clearly and write well is a lifelong ability that will benefit students, regardless of whether they choose to pursue further education or employment. In light of this, the OSSLT is more than simply a test, it’s a chance for students to show that they are prepared for the difficulties that lie ahead. read more