This week UCC reminded our school family that we have moved into Advent.  We identified the four weekly themes of Hope, Faith, Joy and Peace as we await Christmas.  With advent comes the excitement of the Christmas season.  You can notice the climate changing in the school as students and staff move about the hallways and classes of UCC.

Student anticipation of Christmas and a two-week break from classes is always a welcomed time of year.  Nonetheless, there have are numerous activities over the next few weeks in preparation for Christmas.  Some of the highlights will include our December 18^th Advent Eucharistic Celebration for each grade level.  Our annual Pedegape Christmas Dinner on December 5^th will fill our cafeteria with 150 guests from our community.  It will be a very fulfilling evening of service.  Student council will be hosting lunchtime activities for the students including door decorating, Christmas caroling, Christmas sweater day and close December with the Christmas assembly on the last day of classes.  Tremendous efforts are graciously given by so many – in time, generosity, acts of charity and good will.  The Christmas spirit is alive and well here at UCC.

As we head into January, the end of the semester is in sight.  Exams start on January 24^th so students and staff will be in the process of preparation to wrap up courses and study. 

UCC will also hold our annual Grade 8 Open House on Thursday, January 30th at 7 pm.  Any grade 8 students and their parent or guardian is welcome to join us in our theatre at 7 pm for an information session and guided tours.  Please plan to be with us.

Enjoy a peace-filled Christmas and joyful New Year.

Lancer Loud!  Lancer Proud!

Ray Power

Principal

The beginning of November marks the half way of our semester.  It continues to amaze me how fast the school year progresses. 

Parent teacher interviews have come and gone and report cards will be finalized in the coming weeks.  Be sure to ask your child for their report starting Friday November 15th.

UCC will celebrate Remembrance Day with a reverent and moving ceremony thanks to the help of Mr. Dula, Ms. Mitchell, Mr. Zimmer and various student’s active participation.  Our school community will have a chance to gather as a school family, reflect on the past, and remember the sacrifices of so many.  We are blessed to know and enjoy many freedoms today as a result of the service of many before us. 

Numerous staff have been engaged in professional development opportunities to learn from their peers and by the support offered from our curriculum team.  Department improvement is being shared on how to improve achievement, close the gap between academic and applied success as well as exploring opportunities to solve real life problems through experiential learning.  All of these actions are part of supporting the SCCDSB strategic plan of;  Learning together today, transforming tomorrow!  We all want to see the intellectual engagement of our students.

With just over ten weeks until final exams, there is still time for improvements in achievement, participation in extra-curricular events and positive relationships to be developed.  I continue to encourage parents to have conversations with your children to remain knowledgeable as to how their year is progressing.  I urge you to keep in contact with teachers and administration should concerns arise.  Watch our school calendar for important dates to join us throughout the year.

We are pleased with the amazing work being done by staff and students and thank you for your support along the way.  Enjoy the rest of the semester.

Lancer Loud.  Lancer Proud!

Ray Power

Principal