Spinathon

We would like to thank everyone for helping with raising funds for the Canadian Red Cross relief efforts in Japan. Staff and student participated in a spinathon that helped raise over $2300. Thank you to our spinners and Colts Council, they did a superb job of raising funds and student awareness. Thank you to Mr. Stryker and Ms. Quanderamo for co-organizing and running the Spinathon.

Ecoteam

The BCSS Ecoteam is starting two new initiatives this spring. The Ecoteam will be collecting old cameras, cell phones and printer cartridges for recycling. A drop box is available in the library. Each item collected contributes to a tree planted for reforestation and funds for the school library to purchase Environmental-related resources.

In May, the Ecoteam will be planting our first community vegetable garden. The vegetables will be used in school programming or donated to the local food bank after harvest. If you would to contribute to our community garden (e.g., gardening tools, vegetable plants, time), please contact Ms. Quan-D'Eramo (ext. 4083).

BCSS Cricket Club

The BCSS Cricket club will be starting its second season of play on 5th April 2011 and ending on 31st May 2011. The club will run on Tuesdays and Fridays after school from 3:15 PM to 4:30 PM except during scheduled holidays. All students interested in playing cricket and those who want to learn to play cricket are welcome to join. No prior experience required.

Staff members are welcome to participate in the club. Students who are interested should contact Mr. D. Bharucha to obtain an enrolment package.

Beyond the Hurt Crew (BTHC)

The Beyond the Hurt Crew-BCSS’ Equity and Inclusivity Club has been very busy.

On February 10, a group of Grade 11 students attended a “Positive Forums For Growth” seminar, at which they explored “culture mapping” and positive school leadership.

On February 25, in honour of Black History Month, the BTHC was pleased to bring in Fiona Clarke, a speaker from the Black History Association of Ontario, who spoke to our students about the “Struggles and Achievements of African- Canadian Athletes.”

On March 3 students in Grades 9 and 10 attended the “Stand Up-Speak Up Conference” which was focused on bullying prevention in our schools. The students saw a very powerful dramatic presentation about sexual harassment entitled “From the Heart” which was performed by teenage actors, and also heard from a speaker who is an expert on cyberbullying. They came away with many excellent ideas.

On March 11, a group of BCSS students from Grades 9 -12 will begin a series of workshops with professional theatre director Mark Cassidy. The goal of the workshops is to create an original dramatic presentation focused on bullying prevention. The series of workshops has been made possible through a grant from the Te-Amim Theatre and the Ontario Trillium Foundation.

New York in Spring

On Wednesday, May 4 through Sunday, May 8, BCSS music students and students in the Beyond the Hurt Crew will travel to New York City. Highlights of the trip will include: a musical performance and clinic with a Broadway conductor; a drama workshop with Broadway actors; participation in the world famous 'Tools for Tolerance' program; a three hour musical tour of New York; a professional baseball game; a Broadway show; admission to three museums; and sightseeing!

There are still a few spots available. All BCSS students are welcome to participate. If your child is interested please contact Mrs. Baskin or Mrs. Halko.

Raising Cancer Awareness in the BCSS Community

This semester, a number of members of the BCSS family have been forced to deal with the reality of battling cancer or related diseases. With a tremendous sense of courage and empathy, a number of our students have come forward with ideas for raising awareness, and also raising funds, to support their friends through this challenging period.

The BCSS staff will work with these students to coordinate events at the school. Dates and times for these activities will be posted in future Scoreboard editions.

Colts’ Council

The Colts’ Council, better known as “C²” is our student governing body.  This group is the leadership team that plans and organizes many of the activities for students around the school.

Repetoire Band

The BCSS Repertoire Band meets at lunch or after school.

On February 14, 2011 the BCSS Repertoire Band performed at the Ontario Band Association and received high praise andan overall rating of “silver”. The adjudicators commented in particular on the excellent precision and accuracy of the group. The students learned a lot in the 45 minute clinic which followed the performance.<

Mallet percussionist Winnie Fong received a “Leadership Award” for her outstanding contribution to the ensemble.

BCSS Drumline

On Saturday, March 5th four members of the BCSS Drumline-Bryce Lahure, Robyn Kosmidis, Sean Nishimura, and Maya Pieroban, under the direction of Mrs. Baskin, performed at the “Starlight Children's Foundation” Charity Gala at the Allstream Building at Exhibition Place. The students, who were featured with a 16 piece band, dancers, and stilt walkers, received accolades for their superb percussion skills and fancy stick work. Bravo drumliners! We're proud of you for contributing your time and effort to such a great cause!

Music Alive

Upon returning from the March break, BCSS music students will be hard at work preparing for various performances at the York Region Music Alive Festival. Good luck to all of our participating students!