Thornhill Secondary School PAW PRINTS

Thornhill Secondary School June 2016 VOLUME 7 ISSUE 4 167 Dudley Avenue Thornhill, ON L3T 2E5 PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE Telephone: 905.889.5453 This newsletter marks the close of another school year at Thornhill Fax: 905.889.0360 Secondary School. On behalf of the Administration Team, I extend thanks to Website: http://thornhill.ss.yrdsb.ca all members of our school community. Congratulations on a marvellous job! Administration To our students: we applaud you on your accomplishments in academics, David McAdam, Principal the arts, sports, technological studies, extra-curricular pursuits, and in Sandy Kofalvi, Vice-Principal community and leadership development. You have capitalized on the many Georgia Vatousis, Vice-Principal opportunities to learn and grow, and have applied yourself for your own Superintendent of Schools advancement and for the betterment of our extended community. Thanks Rashmi Swarup for doing your part, as individuals of character, to make our school a safer, more inclusive and respectful learning community. Hats off to you, Trustee Susan Geller especially to the Class of 2016! To our parents: you have continued to play a pivotal role as educational School Council Co-Chairs partners, supporting the development of our Tigers! Your ongoing Susan Eaton and Shirley Porjes Gupta guidance, advocacy and assistance to increase student success are highly INSIDE Page(s) valued. A special ‘thank you’ to members of the School Council for your Registration Information 2 commitment to continuous improvement at TSS! To our community partners: many thanks for your spirit of charity and for Geography Department 3 st Visit Barcelona & Madrid 4 linking arms with us to more holistically equip our students as 21 century English Department 4 learners. Message from Trustee 4 To our school staff: I applaud you for your commitment to the growth of Staffing Changes 2016-2017 5 our students, including what you do to make sure that they learn all they Chess Team Championship 6 can every day. Thank you to the Cafeteria Staff, Caretakers, Educational Science Department News 7 Assistants, Secretaries, Teaching Faculty, and Technicians for your Mathematics Corner 9 teamwork and optimism as we continually strive for excellence. I also History Department 11 extend special congratulations and well wishes to staff members who are Family Studies Department 12 on the move. Please see “Staffing Changes for 2016-2017” in this newsletter Visual Arts Department 12 for more details. Tech Department 12 As we close another chapter in our school’s history, I am grateful for our Special Education 12 individual and collective achievement. I am also anticipating the new or Co-op Education 14 extended opportunities that await us. The School Improvement Plan (S.I.P.) Business Department 15 will keep on guiding our decisions and actions to enrich the quality of Thornhill Athletic Council 17 education at Thornhill. Aligned with the York Region District School Board, Guidance Department 19 our S.I.P. incorporates three main foci: Modern Learning, Math Literacy, Candidate Nomination Form 20 and Mental Health and Wellbeing. These are harnessed within the framework of Leadership Development, Innovation and Equity. I am confident that our camaraderie and resiliency will sustain Thornhill’s LOOKING AHEAD success as we focus further on these areas. August 30 Registration/Photo Day A safe, healthy and happy summer to you and your family! September 7 First Day Grades10-12 Sincerely, September 15 School Council David A. McAdam. September 20 Post-Sec Info Day September 26 PA Day September 28 Terry Fox/Carnival September 30 Photo Retake Day VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 TSS PAW PRINTS PAGE 2

REGISTRATION INFORMATION In accordance with Ministry of Education guidelines, schools will not charge fees for supplies relating to coursework that is necessary to meet graduation requirements, e.g. French workbooks, Family Studies food labs. The Fees Guidelines allows schools to charge fees for enhanced materials, i.e. enrichments beyond what is necessary to meet curriculum expectations such as: certifications; Iron Chef Competition; art kit; cedar wood in construction; and field trips. In classes that charge for enhancements, you will receive a letter from the teacher detailing what the fee covers. Payment of the enhancement fee is voluntary. In addition, fees can be charged for participating in extra-curricular activities such as sports teams, clubs, dances, graduation, etc. Our School Activity Fee serves to engage students in the broader school community by providing a wide range of opportunities that occur before school, at lunch and after school. Monies collected will cover or subsidize the cost of various extra-curricular activities in clubs, teams, sports, and student groups such as the Students’ Council. These groups, events and activities build school spirit and enrich the learning experience beyond the classroom and the designated subject curriculum. This is an important element in building and strengthening the sense of community at TSS. With the payment of the Student Activity Fee, students receive discounts for various events, e.g.,.Semi-formal and Prom.

STUDENT FEES:

Student Activity Fee $ 45.00 Student Council Activities, Clubs, Speakers, Carnival, Spirit Days, Sports Teams, School

Newspaper, Dances …

Student Price Card (SPC) for retail discounts at student-price $ 10.00

School Yearbook . . .Every student is encouraged to purchase a yearbook. $ 40.00

Physical Education Uniform (mandatory) $ 25.00 . . . . shorts only $ 12.00 . . . . shirt only $ 14.00 TSS Athletic Attire must be worn by all students enrolled in Physical Education courses Grade 12 s only—Graduation Package—June 28, 2017 $ 75.00 includes cap, gown, 4 tickets, refreshments, decorations, venue and printing costs

Student Agenda Planner (optional) $ 5.00

Parents are advised that students should bring sufficient funds to cover registration fees and physical education uniforms. Cheques are to be made payable to Thornhill Secondary School. A $20 NSF charge will be added to all cheques returned to the school. There is also a cash on-line option at https://yrdsb.schoolcashonline.com/ We cannot accept credit or debit cards. Registration Day will be on Tuesday, August 30th from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Timetables will be distributed and photos will be taken. Thank you.

SCHOOL TIMETABLE TIME FOR A BRAIN BREAK PERIOD 1 8:35 9:50

In support of our students’ OPENING EXERCISES 9:50 9:55 mental health and well-being, PERIOD 2 10:00 11:15 our Library now offers activities to give our PERIOD 3 11:20 12:35 youth a break from the academic rigours of PERIOD 4 12:40 1:55 the day. Students have had a lot of fun completing Sudoku Puzzles, Crosswords, PERIOD 5 2:00 3:15 Mazes, Colouring, Jigsaw Puzzles and the AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM 1 3:20 4:35 VERY POPULAR Peg Solitaire. Look for AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM 2 4:40 5:55 new additions this fall! VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 TSS PAW PRINTS PAGE 3

Geography Department “You, too, can see the world differently” National Geographic Society

Welcome Geographers! We have come to the close of another exciting yet busy school y e a r . On behalf of the department, we would like to greatly thank Ms. Karapici who joined the “team” at the start of the semester. We would also like to extend our gratitude to Mrs. Marum for her expertise and dedication (and “gummy worms”) over the years in the Department and wish her the very best in her upcoming retirement!

Grade 9 Geographers have been discussing key industry and resource management issues such as: freshwater and controversial energy sources such as hydrological fracturing. Students had the opportunity to learn from guest speakers in the renewable energy industry and City of Markham urban planners. In May, the Grade 9 Geography classes embarked on a walking tour to observe the revitalized communities of

Regent Park, Cabbagetown and St. Lawrence Market (south).

By the end of the course, Grade 9 students then took on role of “urban planners” as they examined the local community and problem-solved how to re-design their communities to be more livable and sustainable.

Students in the Grade 11 Travel and Tourism course have been busy “virtually” exploring emerging destinations in Southeast Asia, taking an African safari and examining recent issues and impacts facing the global tourism industry. Students also explored popular local destinations on their Great Tour of Toronto field trip! The students finished the course by planning a responsible tourism excursion to many unique world destinations. Pack your bags!

Grade 12 World Issues students have been researching, analyzing and discussing global resource issues such as food, freshwater and climate change. Students have also been examining global population trends, patterns and issues such as urbanization. Students concluded the course with their globalization debates as well as the “screening” of their own documentaries that informed and raised awareness among our global citizens.

We wish all our students and their families a wonderful, safe and restful summer! See you in September! VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 TSS PAW PRINTS PAGE 4

English Department The English Department at Thornhill Secondary is constantly trying to create curriculum that is innovative, exciting and appeals to all students. Since our student population holds a variety of interests, we have created compulsory and elective courses that appeal to many of the students’ interests. We are proud to say that the Grade 11 University English for English Language Learners (ENG3UL) will be offered at TSS next year to support success for all. The Grade 11 Open Presentation and Speaking Skills Course (EMS3O1) enables students to examine and use the various skills necessary to present and speak effectively. Also, grade 12 Writers’ Craft (EWC4U1) is also popular with its workshop environment for students to creatively manipulate language and read each other’s work. Department members are committed to providing students with quality instruction that encourage them to become critical thinkers and problem-solvers. Our focus is on student-centered learning and other differentiated learning strategies. In addition, we strive to develop and maximize student learning skills and work habits by emphasizing process and awareness of learning through metacognitive assessment. It has been a wonderful year of learning in 2015-2016. Congratulations to all students on their efforts and successes. For recommended summer reading, ask your English teacher for their top picks!

VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 TSS PAW PRINTS PAGE 5 Message from our Trustee As the school year comes to a close, I would like to thank you for all that you have done to help make this school year a successful one for our students. We share a common goal - to give our young people every opportunity to reach their full potential, and we all have a role to play in supporting that goal. However you choose to get involved, your engagement and support make a difference. We know that good schools become better schools when they are connected with families. Thanks to the ongoing efforts of our students, families, staff members and community partners, we are creating a welcoming, caring and inclusive learning environment that fosters student achievement and well-being. As we move into summer, I encourage you to seek out opportunities to continue and complement the learning that takes place throughout the school year. That could mean taking a nature walk, visiting a museum or reading a book. Whatever your plans are over the next few months, I hope you have a safe, relaxing and enjoyable summer.

STAFFING CHANGES FOR 2016-2017 Congratulations, thanks and best wishes to the following staff members who are on the move: Ms S. Kofalvi, VP – to Vaughan Secondary School Ms N. Carroll – Semester Two teacher, back to Newmarket High School Ms M. Del Bianco - on leave for the school year Ms K. Kamarhie—Long Term Occasional Teacher Ms A. Karapici—Long Term Occasional Teacher Mr E.Leung—Semester Two teacher, back to Huron Heights Secondary School Mr M. MacLean—Ed Assistant on leave next year Ms L. Mandatori - on leave for the school year Mr G. Monteith—Long Term Occasional Teacher Ms P. Nasmith – on leave for the school year Mr M. Pich—Long Term Occasional Teacher Ms H. Satchi—Long Term Occasional Teacher Mr S. Shacklady – Semester Two teacher, off to Tommy Douglas Secondary School Ms S. Strachan—Long Term Occasional Teacher WELCOME, FAREWELL Ms N. Vella-Geldart—Long Term Occasional Teacher & HAPPY RETIREMENT Ms E. Welch—Long Term Occasional Teacher A fond farewell to Mr H. Belman, Ms M. DiLorenzo, Ms M. Lingeman, Ms M. Marum, Ms K. Meema and Mr I. Thomson. Together, they have served Thornhill for a total of 150 years. We thank you for your contributions to public education, and for your devoted service to our students. All the best for a happy retirement! We welcome: Ms J. Anderson—from Alexander MacKenzie High School Ms C. D’Angelo—from Sutton District High School Mr K. Ganeshalingham—VP, from Milliken Mills High School Mr P. Naccarato-from Richmond Green Secondary School Mr B. Salavati—from Pierre Elliot Trudeau High School Mr W. Schwan—from Thornlea Secondary School Mr T. Tam – from Milliken Mills High School Ms A. Tsatsos—from Bur Oak Secondary School Ms R. Weinberg - from Stephen Lewis Secondary School VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 TSS PAW PRINTS PAGE 6

Girls Run for It! Running/Walking Program

You did it! By participating in the SHOPPERS LOVE. YOU. Run for Women, you supported the women in our community who face mental health challenges and, made a difference to your own mental health by running, walking and talking in this year’s event. Research has proven a positive link between exercise and mental health so continue to run it out, walk it out, and talk it out. It’s just one more way you can LOVE. YOU. Congratulations to all the Thornhill girls who participated in this 6 week program!

CHESS TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP The Thornhill Secondary School Chess Team is again the Ontario high school chess team champion; and by the slimmest of margins, TSS came in second place at the national (Ontario-Quebec) high school chess team championships. These two annual events are run by the national Chess ’n Math Association. At the Ontario championships held in Toronto on May 29, there were 3 fairly closely rated teams at the top – perennial chess powerhouse UTS (University of Toronto Schools) rated #1, TSS rated #2, and Marc Garneau Collegiate Institute rated #3. Final standings were: TSS – 4 team wins, 1 loss, 1 tie, out of 6 team matches. Marc Garneau CI – 4 team wins, 2 losses. UTS – 3 team wins, 2 losses, 1 tie.

At the national championships held in Kingston on June 4, there were 7 teams that were fairly evenly rated on paper. Final standings were: Jean-de-Brebeuf-Nicolas Metivier – 4 wins, 1 loss, out of 5 team matches. TSS – 3 wins, 1 loss, 1 tie. Notre Dame – Thierry Libersan “A” team (an all girls team) – 3 wins, 1 loss, 1 tie.

In two key match-ups against Jean-de-Brebeuf and JB Tyrell, if TSS had gotten just one extra half game point (one game drawn instead of lost, or one game won instead of drawn), on any of two or three boards, TSS would have finished in first place. Every team member made a significant contribution to the TSS team performance – the team (left to right in photo) consisted of: Mark Plotkin (Grade 12) on board 1 (plays the #1 player from every other team) – rated #1 in Canada for scholastic chess for Grade 12 – was the team’s top performer, scoring 9 points in 11 games against the toughest opponents. Stephen Ye (Grade 12) on board 2 – scored 7 points out of 11 games, including one key upset win over UTS. Melissa Giblon (Grade 11) on board 3 – twice national youth girls champion, scored 5 points out of 11 games, including one key upset win over UTS. Alyssa Rusonik (Grade 10) on board 4 – scored 8.5 points out of 11 games, to consistently deliver important game points. Melissa and Alyssa are also members of the school debate team, and the Debate Club Executive for next school year. This is the second year in a row that TSS upset #1 rated University of Toronto Schools (UTS), and the third time in the past four years that TSS has become Ontario champions. Past TSS Ontario champion team members included David Itkin, Ben Blium, Stephen Ye, Rebecca Giblon and Mark Plotkin. Fantastic! VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 TSS PAW PRINTS PAGE 7

Science Department News

Mental Health Awareness Week – Sensory Science During the first week of May students had the opportunity to learn about colours, scents and mood by making lavender silly putty and peppermint play dough among other activities offered after school by the science department. Scientists involved in a relatively new field of study called colour psychology have determined that colour has a strong impact on how we feel, how we think, how to calm the mind, and even how much we eat.

Green is a colour that inspires peace and tranquility. Blue emits a sense of calm and well -being. Purple in all shades has a calming mental effect.

Over the course of human evolutionary history, scents served as clues to our ancestors about the nature of people and things in their environment. As a result, we have evolved responses to many scents. Aroma therapists believe the naturally occurring scent of orange makes people happier and that lavender calms the mind. Aromatherapy is the practice of using volatile plant oils, including essential oils, for psychological and physical well-being. Think about what you could do to help reduce your stress. Do you…get enough sleep? …avoid procrastination? …ask for help? …have a hobby? What else could you do to help yourself reduce the stress in your life?

York Region Science Olympics Results Congratulations to the Thornhill Science Olympics teams that placed 2nd overall in York Region! The annual York Region Science Olympics hosted at Seneca at York has students working in teams in 3 separate events in Chemistry, Biology and Physics. This year all of our students were medal winners! The Junior A team came 2nd in the chemistry event, the Junior B team came first in the Physics event and came 2nd overall of all the junior teams. In the senior division, the Senior A team placed 3rd in the biology event and the Senior B team came 1st in the biology and came 2nd overall of all the senior teams. Overall, the combined scores for the junior and senior teams placed them 2nd in Chemistry and 4th in Biology. The team also won the coveted Spirit Award for sportsmanship (sciencemanship?), themed T-shirts designed by Benya Sutyanyong, and their cheer which they sang and danced to with great enthusiasm. Thanks to Ms Taylor, Ms Meema and Mr. Thomson for helping make the day possible. VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 TSS PAW PRINTS PAGE 8 Transit of Mercury On May 9th, 2016, astronomers and the public across Canada gazed up at the Sun to witness Mercury transiting the Sun. During this rare phenomenon the planet Mercury takes about 7 hours to cross the face of the Sun. About 200 students and staff at TSS were lucky enough to see it and marvel at the miniscule Miss Satchi’s Chemistry size of Mercury in comparison to the Class views the Sun giant disc of the Sun! The next transit is in 2019, and then we have to wait until 2049 to see it again from Ontario.

Ms Meema and her 8” telescope with a solar filter that helped students and staff look safely at the sun.

CONGRATULATIONS & HAPPY RETIREMENT TO MS MEEMA AND MR THOMSON! From: SCIENCE DEPT. VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 TSS PAW PRINTS PAGE 9

In June, our grade nine students took part in the EQAO Test. All students working towards a Grade 9 Academic or Applied credit are required to participate in the EQAO Test. These tests evaluate how well students are meeting the expectations of the Grade 9 Academic or Applied Mathematics courses from The Ontario Curriculum. Our focus on Numeracy continues as we strive to improve Mathematical Success. What a great year this was for TSS and the Math Department! Another successful year for our Mathematics Department at TSS, ranking within the top 16 schools in Canada in the University of Waterloo Math Contests for grades 9, 10 and 11. Next year we will continue to prepare our students to succeed in high school, university and college, and to apply what they learn to their future careers. The Math Department. wishes our graduating students all the best in their future endeavors. It has been our pleasure watching you grow and reaching this milestone. Our best wishes to everyone! The Mathematics and Statistics Committee of the Atlantic Provinces Committee on the Sciences has put together a booklet that contains many sample questions and hints to help you prepare for University Calculus. (http://cs.smu.ca/apics/calculus/ welcome.php) “ Pure mathematics is the world's best game. It is more absorbing than chess, more of a gamble than poker, and lasts longer than Monopoly. It's free and can be played anywhere. ”

MUSIC TRIP TO CUBA!! ATTENTION STUDENTS ENROLLED IN THE 2016/17 MUSIC PROGRAM: JOIN US FOR A PERFORMANCE TRIP TO HAVANA, CUBA November 12th – 19th, 2016 For further information, contact [email protected] VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 TSS PAW PRINTS PAGE 10

Science Competition Results The results from the University of Toronto National Biology Competition are in! The Thornhill team placed an amazing 8th overall in Canada out of 263 schools. The teams members were: Terry So, who placed in the top 0.5% of students, won a prestigious monetary award and is named National Biology Scholar with Distinction, and Max Li, Hershel Ruskin and Yael Lewis who all placed within the top 5% of the 3195 participating students in Canada and are designated as National Biology Scholars. Way to go team! Congratulations to all the participants for their fine work in biology all year!

Science Department offers a big congratulations to Ron Alesker for placing in the 99th percentile in the University of Waterloo International Avogadro Chemistry Contest. This translates to 47th place out of over 4000 students! Ron is especially commended for his achievement as he has not yet completed any senior chemistry courses in high school. For his achievement he receives an Outstanding Achievement Elemental Tile and a Certificate of Distinction. We would also like to congratulate the following students: Adam Silverman, Max Li, Alvin Lee, Rachel Lysenko, Ben Levy, Daniel Chen, Alon Djurinsky, Yoav Arbiv, Alexander Lee, Elinor Feigis, and Ryan Ho who all placed in the top 20% in North America and each will receive a Certificate of Achievement. Thanks to everyone who wrote – we hope that you will all participate in the Grade 12 Chemistry Contest next year.

In the University of Waterloo International Grade 12 Chemistry Contest Frederick Mei earned an Outstanding Achievement Elemental Tile and Certificate of Distinction for placing in the top 10% in North America. Erik Sadul, Alex Wong and Karin Saltoun all earned Certificates of Achievement for their top 20% placements.

The University of Waterloo Sir Isaac Newton for Physics contest was written by students from a variety of grades. Congratulations to Yaniv Khaslavsky for placing first at Thornhill Secondary.

The York University Biophysics Contest is a competition for Ontario high school students to create a presentation on a topic in the field of biophysics. It aims to acquaint students with a rapidly growing frontier of science, and to promote skills in the communication of science. Congratulations go out to Sebastian Ouslis for his third place finish for “How the Eyes Change Light into Information” and to Paul Miller for his third place finish for “How Do Soil Nutrients get to the Top of the Tree?” The Science Department is always extra proud of students who take advantage of these opportunities to further their knowledge and showcase their abilities. Way to Go! VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 TSS PAW PRINTS PAGE 11 WHAT A YEAR! STUDENT(S) OF THE MONTH This has been a fun and rewarding year, marked by We are pleased to acknowledge the following a host of exciting activities and initiatives…. Be it students for their outstanding demonstration Awards Evening; Pink/Purple Shirt Days; Peer of character: Tutoring and Mentorship; Eco-School Re- September Thomas Balint certification; Upgrades to the School Plant; Music Jacob Del Duca October Jerry Lu Concerts; Academic Results; Math, Science & November Gabrielle Bautista Technology Competition Standings; Grade 9 Day; December Matthew Wright Transition Program; School of Character Award; January Paniz Shaker School Carnivals; Open Mic Nights; Safety Week; February Noam Kogan Terry Fox Run/Walk; Student Speak-Up Projects; March Jessica Qin OFSAA Track & Field Results; Parent Reach Out April Carl Zou Project; School Dance; Semi-formal; Prom; Drama May Hongyue Ding and Production; School Newspaper; Relay for Life; Adrian Zhao June Sarah Knight Graduation 2016; various field trips and excursions; our sports teams; diverse clubs and endeavours; We congratulate these and other students kind acts by unsung heroes – thank you for making who model exemplary character on a daily this a positive and productive year at TSS! basis.

History Department As we reflect on another outstanding semester at T.S.S. we would like to highlight some of the great work that was accomplished. In May the History Department and Guidance Department hosted Grandma Won-Ok Gil (comfort women survivor) and Mee-Hyang Youn (Director of the Korean Council) who were in Toronto for the Toronto Film Festival. This speaking engagement was a great opportunity for staff and students to learn about the lives of former “comfort women”, the more than 200,000 girls who were forced into sexual slavery during World War II by the Imperial Japanese Army. Students and staff were inspired by Grandma Won-Ok’s message for universal love, peace and acceptance of past injustice. To wrap up this semester’s grade 10 Applied Canadian History course, students answered the focus question: Is Canada's History One that You Are Proud Of? The grade 10s each chose three events that they have studied in class and used the details of those events as evidence to prove their opinion. Many were proud of Canada and discussed events such as Vimy Ridge or the vote for women. Others were not as proud and discussed the internment of the Japanese or the Holocaust. The Academic and Gifted students turned in their culminating video assignments, which had them developing their own criteria to determine the most outstanding contributions or most outstanding events in Canadian history in the past 100 years. Canada has done a lot in the past 100 years...what would your opinion be? Speaking of 100…….Next year will be the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge, The History Department will be joining other schools from the YRDSB on a trip of a lifetime taking part in offical commemoration ceremonies in both London and at Vimy Ridge. For more information contact Ms. Marina Retsos. Finally, we would like to wish everyone a safe and relaxing summer. See you in September! VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 TSS PAW PRINTS PAGE 12

Family Studies Department What an amazing semester we’ve had in the Family Studies Department! Congratulations to the Grade 11 Food and Culture and the Grade 10 Food and Nutrition classes for an amazing job on their Iron Chef and Cutthroat Kitchen cooking competitions. The students did a fantastic job with their cooking creations. They should all be proud of themselves for their accomplishments! Grade 12 Nutrition and Health put their culinary skills to the challenge cooking for their nutrient deficiency culminating assignments. The Grade 9 Exploring Family Studies made their own pajama pants and became professional sewers. They too cooked potato latkas and spanakopita that represented different cultures throughout the world.

Grade 12 Sociology of Gender and Sexuality focused on very controversial topics with regards to sexuality for their summative seminar presentations. They did an amazing job getting their peers to think critically and see things from a different perspective. A job well done!!

Looking forward to seeing everyone in September! Have a great summer!

VISUAL ARTS DEPARTMENT: Tech Department It has been another exciting semester for the students and Technology courses at TSS wrapped up another exciting teachers in Visual arts! Mrs Herman-Landau has quite year of change and development. Our longtime enjoyed teaching the crafts classes how to make leather woodshop teacher, Leon Wease retired in January books,and we have received a lot of leather to continue heading off to his hometown of Peterborough, Ontario. this for next year! Her students consistently create Replacing Mr. Wease is David Natale who comes to us magnificent gargoyles and humourous pop-art. Ms. from Keswick High School where he taught England has developed amazing photographs with her Transportation Technology. Mr. Natale is presently classes, and her students have been very focused. Ms. teaching our Tech Design courses. His classes have just Hallis has been thrilled to say that her grade 11 art course finished the challenging Trebuchet Project. produced some fantastic Mini Bernini-Me sculptures as well Mr. D’Angela reports that we are replacing our aging car hoists in the auto shop and that we will soon be as some iconicism acrylic paintings that are somewhat acquiring a 3D printer for the Technology Department. outstanding. The mythological ink etchings were quite 3D printing represents the cutting edge of exquisite also. The watercolour paintings in the hall will be manufacturing design and will provide a significant missed - but more are sure to come up next year in our boost to our Technological Design program. gallery showings. March Break will be a fantastic time to Mr. Knox’s Comm Tech classes worked hard to produce look at the art galleries in Spain - as a school trip is movie trailers, music videos, dramas and planned at that time for students who are interested. See documentaries. Our grade 12’s also raced to finish the Ms. Hallis (or Ms. Chaudhary or Mr. Fraschetti) for details! Grad Video featuring the TSS Class of 2016. This video To all future art students: Have a SKETCHY SUMMER! was screened at the graduation ceremony on June 27. VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 TSS PAW PRINTS PAGE 13 SPECIAL EDUCATION To our graduating students, we are proud of all your accomplishments and wish you success with your future goals. Remember, learning is a lifelong endeavor!

To Mary DiLorenzo, Department Head of Special Education It will not be the same without you at Thornhill Secondary School. You brightened our day, and helped guide our journey. You inspired the department and all of our students to reach for the stars. No challenge was too large for you. You will be missed. Enjoy the next chapter of your life as you begin your retirement.

We are thrilled to introduce our new department head, Robyn Weinberg. Some of you may remember her as a SERT from Thornhill Public School. She has spent the last 6 years as a high school SERT. We are excited to welcome her to our team.

We would like to recognize Jehanne Marzouk‘s dedication to our students with IEP’s. Next year she will be joining the ESL Department on a full-time basis. We would like to acknowledge David Clarke (Learning Opportunities Grant – Educational Assistant) and his team of students whose efforts raised over $20,000 for Relay for Life. They surpassed last year’s goal. Way to Go! Thank you for enriching our community and raising cancer awareness. We want to thank our support staff for their commitment to students with special needs. We appreciate their devotion to their job. Have a wonderful summer. The team consists of Marcel Assor, Lordana Burke, David Clarke, Matt Cole, Debbie Depinto, Phillip Ibonye, Nanehjan Kardgar, Mathew Mac Lean, Harold Tam and Diana Williams.

The Special Education teachers for 2016- 2017 will be Corey Copeland.(Autism)) Tijana DeBora, (SERT) Behrad Mobedi (SERT), Darren Moore (Autism), Sherry Palef (SERT), Andrew Tile (Peak) and Robyn Weinberg (Head).

PEAK STUDENTS IN TORONTO

On Tuesday June 14, the students at PEAK joined with peers from other PEAK programs, for our annual Blue Jays event. After a great walking tour that included Maple Leaf Gardens, Queens Park, and the University of Toronto, participants had a nice lunch at Caplanskys before going to the game. The Jays won; there were lots of home runs. Overall, it was a terrific, fun-filled field trip. VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 TSS PAW PRINTS PAGE 14

The Cooperative Education Department would like to congratulate the students on a successful semester and thank the community supervisors who have supported and given the students a great opportunity to integrate classroom theory with practical experience. Students have had experiences in a variety of work environments such as, education, medical, film, auto, culinary, fashion and retail. They have developed workplace skills, and are more prepared to make career decisions. Here are some of their reflections on what they gained from their co-op experience:  “By far the best part of this placement was learning new things and being able to demonstrate my learning, and knowing I had accomplished something that very few people have at my age.”  “Through co-op I became more mature. I was put in an environment where I was surrounded by mature, intelligent adults and I mirrored these traits and learned how to carry myself when communicating with people many years my senior.”  “I loved my placement and have already made plans to return as a volunteer throughout the rest of the year.”  “Being at Novotel North York allowed me to improve my communication skills through checking guests in, answering questions and giving them directions”  “ I enjoyed co-op because I am a hands on person. Being able to go out and work all day and being active is a better way for me to learn and be successful.”  “Since working at an animal clinic I have been able to see what a veterinarian does on a daily basis. I have been able to perform and assist in tasks that usually I would have had to wait until I was in University to accomplish.”  “I worked at an Auto Shop. I learned the importance of thinking outside the box in order to identify a car’s problem and create a solution to get the job done.”  “If I were to go out and into the world and be hired for a job now, I know that I would be more comfortable as a worker and know what is expected of me.“ “As an ESL student, the co-op program helped me improve my communication skills, teamwork and how to be flexible in different situations.”

Students in the High Performance Athlete Program have also had a successful training year and competitive seasons. We wish the students great success in upcoming competitions throughout the summer.

The Co-op Department would like to expand the list of placement opportunities for our students! If you are interested in investing in the future of our students by having a co-op student at your work place, please call Ms. Patterson at 905-889-5453 ext.316 or at [email protected] VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 TSS PAW PRINTS PAGE 15

) VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 TSS PAW PRINTS PAGE 16

The Business Department wishes Eric Leung good luck and best wishes as he takes on a new position at Huron Heights. We would like to thank him for his contributions to the Business Department. He will be missed by staff and students. We would also like to thank Mr. Pich for his contributions and wish him best of luck in his future endeavours. Thanks to one and all. We wish everyone a safe summer! VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 TSS PAW PRINTS PAGE 17 Thornhill Athletic Council The Thornhill Athletic Committee and Healthy Eating Active Living (H>E.A.L.) Committee have once again participated in the Healthy Schools Network. This ministry initiative is intended to promote health and wellness among staff and students in the school. The focus this year was Mental Health. They ran intramurals, stress free mornings where students were greeted with fruit tea during the winter months and hosted guest speakers on the topics of mental health and substance abuse. This year H.E.A.L. once again supported the "Run For It Not From It" Campaign in support of Mental Health at Women's College Hospital. The H.E.A.L. Committee was also a recipient of the Green Apple Grant. Funds were used to purchase fresh fruit and yogurt and make these available to students free of charge in the front foyer before school for the months of April, May and June. The Athletic Council would also like to extend their thanks to all who participated in athletics and intramurals this year. A special thank you to all our coaches who gave students the opportunity to participate in spring sports. This year we were pleased to offer six spring sports! We had many successes throughout the year and would like to recognize some outstanding accomplishments. Katherine Yampolsky and Alex Fainblum represented Thornhill at OFSAA in the Doubles Open Division once again. Congratulations ladies! Linda Nong won Gold in the Junior Badminton Singles Division. Great work! In additional two students represented Thornhill at OFSAA in Track and Field, Robin Clark represented Thornhill in High Jump finishing third and in the Triple Jump finishing 10th. Justin Kim represented Thornhill in the Long Jump finishing 5th. Congratulations and well done! We have plenty to look forward to from our young athletes. Congratulations to all. We would like to recognize the following students for being selected as Most Valuable Player for their sport. These student-athletes were also formally recognized at this year's Athletic Banquet. Tennis: Katherine Yampolsky & Alex Fainblum Mountain Biking: Katia Izvoztchikova & Sam Salmanovitch Girls Field Hockey: Liina Sadul & Laura Wong Track and Field: Robin Clark & Justin Kim Cross Country: Hannah Marcus & Thomas Balint Varsity Ultimate Frisbee: Julia Biris & Sam Grobman

Girls Golf: Audrey Jong Girls Softball: Maddie Fischer Varsity Boys Soccer: Basel Rashrash Varsity Girls Soccer: Talia Niss Varsity Girls Basketball: Monica Mitic Varsity Boys Baseball: Daniel Klein Junior Girls Volleyball: Aysan Baghani Table Tennis – Danric Wang & Parsa Berenjimonfared Senior Girls Volleyball: Farnaz Keshavarz Senior Badminton - Alicia Yang & Grant Yang Varsity Boys Basketball: Arshum Merhvar Junior Badminton – Linda Nong & Philip Wu Girls Curling: Tina Rozin

This year's Athletic Banquet at the Borgata Event Venue was a huge success with over 140 athletes and coaches attending. The semi-formal affair was a sight to behold. The athletes paid tribute to their coaches in a "Thank you" video montage which was touching and entertaining. We would also like to acknowledge and congratulate our special award winner recipients, some of whom will be leaving us for bigger and better things. Sommerville Award: Outstanding athletic development and achievement by a male & female athlete Maddie Fischer and Daniel Tsipris Johnny Huynh Award: Outstanding service to school athletics by a male Christopher Mohan Ruth Hansford Award: Outstanding service to school athletics by a female. Benya Sutyanyong D. Foley Award: Outstanding athletic achievement by a male Phillip Wu T.A.C. Award: Outstanding athletic achievement by a female Linda Nong Laurie Kizik Award: Presented to athlete(s) who participated in a wide variety of school sports every year. Micaela Lewis and Yael Lewis William Armstrong Award: Outstanding leadership, sportsmanship, and athletic performance and development by a female student in a senior grade. Liina Sadul TAC President’s Awards: A presentation to the outgoing president of the Thornhill Athletic Council Laura Wong

(cont’d on page 18) VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 TSS PAW PRINTS PAGE 18

In encouraging students to investigate in their post-secondary pathway planning, twenty-eight students visited the Design and the Construction/Trades programs at Humber College on Monday May 24, 2016. Students were particularly impressed with the quality of the programs. There is a “Foundational Design” program for those who are undecided about their area of focus, and there is also a variety of specialized design programs to choose from. Students were also excited about the state of the art facility and the outstanding support that Humber College provides to their students. With a 264,000 sq. ft “Learning Commons Centre” and a nominal charge tutoring service available, Humber College supports student success. Get excited about your future and start investigating YOUR post-secondary pathway options!

Thornhill Athletic Council (cont’d) We would also like to thank the outgoing Council Executive for their hard work this year, and all the council members for their time and commitment. A special THANK YOU to the many executives who will be graduating from Thornhill. Special thanks for your many years of service to Thornhill Athletics. You will be greatly missed!!

We would like to welcome next year’s council which is already hard at work planning for Thornhill's 13th Annual Terry Fox Walk/Run which will take place in September and the Grade 9 Orientation Day. Welcome to the 2016 - 2017 Council Executive: Co-Presidents: Nikol Kamenetsky & Benya Sutyanyong Co-Vice Presidents: Gal Armon & Selena Meng Treasurer: Matt Gupta Publicity: Emily Louie & Grace Wu Fundraising: Rainey Guo & Christopher Mohan Games Setup: Richard Liu, Bob Pang & Candice Tam Photography: Yana Siganevich & Isabelle Pitigoi VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 TSS PAW PRINTS PAGE 19

The Guidance Department

2016 YRDSB Secondary Summer School Acceleration 4 Week Program Dates: July 4th to 29th Times: 9:00 am to 3:19 pm For more information please visit www.yrdsb.ca

2016 YRDSB Secondary Summer School Reinforcement / Credit Recovery Session 1 Dates: July 4th to 15th Session 2 Dates: July 18th to 29th Times: 9:00 am to 3:19 pm For more information please visit www.yrdsb.ca

TSS Students Check out the useful websites over the summer and get a jump start on Post-Secondary Planning: University: Student Awards/Financial Assistance: www.electronicinfo.ca www.studentawards.com www.ouac.on.ca www.canlearn.ca www.ouf.ca www.osap.gov.on.ca www.ncaa.org (US) https://yconic.com/ www.pennybissett.org Careers/Jobs/Training: www.schoolfinder.com www.careercruising.com www.commonapp.org (US) www.youth.gc.ca College: www.howtobecome.org www.ontariocolleges.ca www.workingincanada.gc.ca Apprenticeship: Student Support Services: www.skillsontario.com www.neads.ca www.caf-fca.org York Region District School Board: www.apprenticetrades.ca www.yrdsb.edu.on.ca/guidance www.thornhill.ss.yrdsb.edu.on.ca (guidance dept.)

The Summer is a great time to work on your 40 hours of Community Involvement needed for Graduation….

All secondary school students must complete 40 hours of community involvement as part of their graduation requirements. Steps for completing your Community Involvement: Review which community involvement activities are considered eligible and ineligible. Refer to the reverse side of the Notification and Completion of Community Involvement Activities form, or visit http://www.yrdsb.edu.on.ca/ communityinvolvement.

Search for volunteer activities that meet the criteria on the eligible list. Complete the Notification and Completion of Community Involvement Activities form for PRE-APPROVAL. PRE-APPROVAL can be completed by the Thornhill Secondary School’s main office during the summer months. Complete your volunteer placement. Submit the completed form to Thornhill Secondary School’s Guidance Secretary in September

Timetable Change Requests: During Registration Week, priority for timetable changes will be given to grade 9 and 10 students with incomplete timetables (fewer than 8 courses), missing compulsory courses, and those with changes due to summer school and repeated courses. Other course change requests can be made by completing a “Course Change Request ” form available in Guidance from Tuesday, September 6th to Wednesday, September 14th, 2016. VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 TSS PAW PRINTS PAGE 20