February 26 Announcements

ANNOUNCEMENTS: Wednesday Feb 26th,2025: WEEK #1; CYCLE DAY C

LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT:

We would like to acknowledge that we are in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaw people. 

We would also like to acknowledge people of African ancestry, whose histories and legacies have contributed to Nova Scotia for over 400 years.

Upcoming Dates/Reminders:

  • February is African Heritage Month  

African Heritage Month 

Did you know: 

People of African descent have helped define popular culture in North America. Their influences have shaped modern music, dance, fashion, art and language. Check out The New Cab Calloway’s Hepsters Dictionary: Language of Jive was published in 1944 and the “the first glossary of words, expressions, many of which are still being used today. Some examples are: 

Have a ball - To enjoy yourself 

Beat - Exhausted 

Hip - Wise, sophisticated 

Get to know:

Today we are recognizing our own Mr. Phee. He was born and raised in Antigonish, Nova Scotia and excelled in both math and chemistry at Dr. John Hugh Gillis Regional High School. He graduated from Saint Francis Xavier University with a major in mathematics and a minor in psychology. After graduating, He was accepted into the education program at St. F. X. Mr. Phee began his teaching career at A.J. Smeltzer, teaching grade 7 math and science for a year. Then, he spent 14 years at Caledonia Junior High teaching mostly math and science. Currently, he is teaching grade 9 math at Astral Drive Junior High.

 Mr. Phee’s Interesting Facts:

- He is a big Judge Judy fan

- Mrs. Kennedy is his best work friend

- Mrs. Lannon keeps taking his parking spot, here at the school

- Mrs. Arseneau will be turning 51 next week. Happy 51th birthday Mrs. Arseneau…that is an inside joke! 

Grade 9 Section: 

Grade 9 Grad Photos

Harvey Studio Photographers will be here at Astral from Monday, March 3rd to Thursday, March 6th for Gr.9 Graduation pictures.  Your time slot has been posted on the window of the main office.  Please pay attention to your date and time, as some classes are spread over 2 days.

Yearbook

It's that time of year again, Grades 9’s  The yearbook club is looking for baby pictures of our Grade 9 graduates.  The photo needs to be a digital original and not condensed from social media sites.  Please send your picture along with your name and homeroom to Mr. Lukenda through email or Google Drive. (dlukenda@gnspes.ca)

Grade 9 Citizenship Award 

Grade 9 Students – Are you ready to showcase your leadership skills and commitment to service? The HRM Citizenship Award is now accepting applications, and we want YOU to consider applying!

This prestigious award recognizes students who exemplify outstanding qualities of leadership within our school and community. If you're someone who takes initiative, inspires others, and actively contributes to making a positive impact, then this award is for you. Please pick up an application from Ms. Lannon’s office and submit it by Wednesday, March 19th. Applications will be reviewed by school staff, and one outstanding applicant will be selected for recognition.

Don't miss this opportunity to be recognized for your contributions and dedication to our community!

O2 Meeting 

Grade 9 Students who are interested in applying to the O2 program are asked to meet on Wednesday, February 26th at 1:30pm in room 172. 

Bake Sale!The drama club will be hosting a bake sale tomorrow at lunch to fundraise for props and costumes.

Drama ClubThe drama club will meet for improv practice today after school from 2:30 to 3:45 in the library.

Best Buddies

Best Buddies will meet Thursday at lunch in the learning centre. 

Flag Football

Grade 9 Monday March 3rd 

Girls 2:30 - 4:00pm

Boys 4:00 - 5:30pm

Grade 8 Tuesday March 4th 

Girls 2:30 - 4:00pm

Boys 4:00 - 5:30pm

Grade 7 Thursday March 6th

Girls 2:30 - 4:00pm

Boys 4:00pm- 5:30pm

Red Dress Pin workshop for MMIWG 

Any Indigenous students interested in attending the red dress pin workshop on Thursday afternoon with Rachel, please pick up a consent form from the office.