Key Dates
5 – Lockdown Drill
6 – Grade 9 Camp Day
7 – Cross Country Team Meet
8 – Virtual Post Secondary Information Session and Bomb Threat Drill
SAVE THE DATE
October 22 - Student Progress Information Night
Student Progress Information Night
Student Progress Information Night is on October 22, 2026. You will have an opportunity to meet with your child(ren)’s teacher(s) in person and learn more about their course(s). Parents can use TeachAssist, an online platform, to schedule a meeting time with their children’s teacher(s) on Parents’ Night. All students in our school currently have a TeachAssist account to access information associated with their class assessments.
Parents/guardians may access appointment bookings on October 15 through the TeachAssist Parent Portal available at https://ta.yrdsb.ca/parents. From there, enter in your email address and leave the password blank, to set up a one-time access link, or to reset a password that you've created. An email will be sent with a time limited link that will look similar to this:
Once logged in, parents/guardians will have the option to set up a password. For instructions on how to book a parent-teacher interview through TeachAssist, please click here. If you have any questions about this process, please contact our main office.
If you have any challenges with meeting in-person on October 22, 2026, please contact your child’s teacher to make alternative arrangements for another day.
Important Timelines
· Student Progress Night schedule opens at 9:00 a.m. on October 15 for booking.
· Parents/Guardians will go to the TeachAssist parent portal https://ta.yrdsb.ca/parents to book their appointment(s).
· October 20-21 Interim Reports will be distributed electronically to parents /guardians / 18+ students via the Electronic Distribution Process.
· October 20 Interview Scheduler closes at 3:10 pm.
· October 21 Parents receive confirmation email(s) from teachers.
· October 22 Parent Teacher Interview Night
Financial Literacy Information (Students taking Grade 10 Careers in Semester 1)
Making informed decisions about economic and financial matters has become an increasingly complex undertaking in the modern world. The Ontario Ministry of Education is taking steps to equip students with essential financial skills and knowledge for their future success.
Starting in the 2026-27 school year, students across the province who enter Grade 9 in the 2025-26 school year and onwards must meet a Financial Literacy Graduation Requirement to earn an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). Your child will complete this requirement as part of their compulsory Grade 10 Career Studies course.
The Financial Literacy Graduation Requirement was developed by TVO for all students and consists of learning modules and assessment questions that typically take less than one-class period to complete. It assesses core financial literacy concepts found in the Grades 1 to 9 curriculum and complements the Grade 10 Career Studies course.
For students taking in-person Career Studies course:
This requirement will take place during the instructional period with their teacher.
Specific details of the assessment date will be coming shortly.
Students will have 2 attempts during the course to complete the requirement and must earn a mark of 70% or higher on the module to pass. Results from these modules will also count for 5% of the student’s final grade in their Career Studies course.
Students who are absent for the assessment will be provided an opportunity to complete the assessment once they return to school.
You will receive a letter with your child’s results within 5 days of writing the assessment.
Students who have an Individual Education Plan (IEP) will have the necessary assessment accommodations as noted in their IEP so the assessment reflects their learning.
Please note: Personal information, including your child’s name, Ontario Education Number, and assessment results, will be collected and stored by the assessment platform to administer the assessment.
For more information about the Financial Literacy Graduation Requirement, please visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/financial-literacy-education-schools. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us.
Important Reminder About Vaping
We are asking for your support in reinforcing our school’s expectations regarding vaping and tobacco/nicotine products.
Students are not permitted to vape or use electronic cigarettes on school property or within 20 metres of school property. This includes school washrooms, hallways, classrooms, outdoor areas and personal vehicles parked on school property. These restrictions are consistent with YRDSB policy and the Smoke-Free Ontario Act.
Students should also not bring vapes or vaping devices to school.
Vape Detectors in Washrooms
Vape detectors are installed in school washrooms and are actively monitored. When a detector is activated, the school will investigate the incident.
Students who are identified as being in a washroom when a vape detector is activated may be contacted by the school, and parents/guardians may be informed. Students should understand that simply being in a washroom where vaping is detected can result in further investigation.
Vaping and possession of vaping products are violations of Board expectations. Depending on the circumstances, the school may apply progressive discipline, which can include parent/guardian contact and other consequences. More serious or repeated incidents may result in suspension, in accordance with Board procedures.
Vaping on school property is also prohibited under the Smoke-Free Ontario Act. In addition to school-based consequences, students may be subject to enforcement under provincial law. Provincial tobacco/vapour-product enforcement officers or law enforcement may become involved where appropriate, and fines can apply.
We encourage families to speak with their students about these expectations and the potential consequences of bringing or using vaping products at school.
Our goal is to maintain a safe, healthy and respectful learning environment for all students and staff. Thank you for partnering with us and supporting our school’s efforts to keep vaping off school property.
Personal Mobile Devices in Schools
This is to inform you about student use of personal mobile devices in schools, in particular, students must store their mobile device out of view, and power off or set to silent mode during instructional/class time. In 2024, the Ontario Ministry of Education introduced a directive modifying the use of personal mobile devices in classrooms. YRDSB already has Policy and Procedure 194.0 - Appropriate Use of Technology and many measures around personal mobile devices in place. The changes bring alignment with the Ministry Directive. The following expectations for students’ use of personal mobile devices are outlined in the revised Provincial Code of Conduct (PPM 128), and the York Region District School Board’s Policy #668 Caring and Safe Schools.
A personal mobile device (PMD) is any personal electronic device that can be used to communicate or access the internet, such as a laptop, cellphone, tablets, smart watches, meta glasses, or other wearable smart devices.
Expectations: Students are responsible for their personal mobile device, how they use it and the consequences of not following the provincial or school board policy.
Students’ personal mobile devices must be stored out of view and powered off or set to silent mode, except under the circumstances outlined below:
○ for educational purposes, as directed by an educator
○ for health and medical purposes
○ to support special education needs
Students in secondary school can bring a personal mobile device to school, but will be able to use it only during non-instructional time.
Practices at School
If an educator sees a personal mobile device that is not stored out of view and powered off or set to silent mode, even after staff reminders, the student may be required to place their personal mobile device in a storage area in a location designated by the educator for the class or period.
Your child may face consequences if they use their personal mobile device inappropriately. Progressive discipline may apply and families may be notified.
Resources:
Families play an important role in teaching children about finding a healthy balance in using technology. You may wish to access the following resources:
● Media Smarts - Four Tips for Managing Your Kids’ Screen Time
● School Mental Health Ontario - Helping Your Child Manage Digital Technology
● Centre for Addiction and Mental Health - Problem Gambling and Technology Use Treatment Services
For additional information regarding Policy/Program (PPM) 128, please visit the Ministry of Education’s Cellphones and other mobile devices in schools site or the York Region District School Board’s website.
School Cash Online
SHSM Event
SHSM is pleased to offer our Health and Wellness students the opportunity to participate in the P.A.R.T.Y. Program offered at Southlake Hospital. On October 28, 2026, students will develop the knowledge and skills required to make safe choices related to alcohol and other risky situations. They will also receive STOP-the-Bleed training and a certificate. We look forward to engaging in our continued learning.
Safety Week at AMHS
This week at AMHS, our students engaged with daily safety reminders during morning announcements. We invite parents and guardians to review the topics and discussion points below to help continue these vital safety conversations at home with your child.
Monday, Sept 28: Looking Out for One Another
Topic: School Culture, Respect & Reporting Concerns
"Happy Safety Week! Just a reminder to keep things safe and supportive at AMHS this year. Treatment matters—treat everyone with respect and look out for your peers. If you ever see or hear something concerning, uncomfortable, or unsafe, don't keep it to yourself. Speak to a staff member or use the YRDSB Report It tool online. You all play a part in making the school a safe place."
Tuesday, Sept 29: E-Scooter & Transportation Safety
Topic: Commuting, Helmets & Dismounting Devices
"If you’re riding an e-scooter, bike, or skateboard to school today, remember:
- You must wear a helmet (and be at least 16 for e-scooters).
- Watch out for pedestrians and follow road rules.
- Dismount as soon as you hit school grounds. Walk your device to the bike racks and lock it securely. Stay alert out there!"
Wednesday, Sept 30: Parking Lot & Drop-Off Safety
Topic: Traffic, Drop-Off Zones & Pedestrian Awareness
"A heads-up on drop-offs and pick-ups:
- Regular drop-off/pick-up is only at the Trench Street parking lot and loop.
- The Major Mackenzie lot is strictly reserved for buses, vans, and taxis—do not ask us or anyone else to drop you off there or in unsafe spots.
- When walking through the lots, put your phone down, stay alert, and look for moving cars."
Thursday, Oct 1: Online Safety & Group Chats
Topic: Digital Citizenship & Respecting Boundaries
"Reminder about group chats and social media: School rules apply online, too. Think twice before posting, responding, forwarding, or screenshotting. Jokes can cross the line quickly, and sharing private info/photos or hate speech is never okay. If a chat turns toxic or someone is in danger, don't join in—leave the chat and tell a teacher, administrator, or one of us right away."
Friday, Oct 3: Shared Spaces & Vaping
Topic: Washroom Safety, Vaping Rules & Respect
"To wrap up Safety Week: Let’s keep school shared spaces—especially washrooms—safe and comfortable for everyone. Vaping, possessing vape products, or loitering in washrooms is strictly prohibited. Let’s make sure racism, bullying, and threats stay out of AMHS, both in person and online. Do your part to make it a great, safe year!"
Post Secondary and Career Information
AMHS Post Secondary Application Workshop
Your Future Starts Here!
Parents and students are invited to attend our Virtual Post-Secondary Applications Workshop on Thursday October 8th 2026 from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.. This session will provide essential information about OUAC and OCAS applications, admission requirements, deadlines, scholarships, financial aid, and post-secondary pathways.
Gain the knowledge and resources needed to navigate the application process with confidence, avoid common mistakes, and prepare for a successful transition beyond high school.Use this link to access the workshop through TEAMS.
Meeting ID: 244 829 551 499 940
Passcode: bU7yB3Pd
Experience the Career
Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026
Time: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
Experience the Career
Date: Saturday, October 24
Time: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Celebrating Islamic Heritage Month – Join ISCS for Community Events!
In honour of Islamic Heritage Month, Inclusive School and Community Services (ISCS) invites students, families, and staff to an evening celebrating the rich diversity of Islamic heritage and cultures.
Join us for an opportunity to connect, learn, and celebrate the diverse identities, histories, traditions, and contributions of Muslim communities from around the world. Through food, performances, cultural displays, and interactive activities, participants will experience the rich tapestry of Islamic heritage.
Four events will be held across York Region. Families, students, and staff are encouraged to attend the location most convenient for them. Please Register here.
- Event #1 – North Area
- Date & Time: Wednesday, October 14, 2026 | 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
- Location: Sir William Mulock Secondary School (705 Columbus Way, Newmarket, ON L3X 2M7)
- Event #2 – West Area
- Date & Time: Thursday, October 15, 2026 | 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
- Location: Tommy Douglas Secondary School (4020 Major Mackenzie Dr. W., Vaughan, ON L4H 4E9)
- Event #3 – Central Area
- Date & Time: Tuesday, October 27, 2026 | 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
- Location: Aurora High School (155 Wellington St. W., Aurora, ON M5V 3H1)
- Event #4 – East Area
- Date & Time: Thursday, October 29, 2026 | 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
- Location: Bill Hogarth Secondary School (100 Donald Sim Ave., Markham, ON L6B 0R1)
York Regional Police Training and Education Bureau
70 Bales Dr. E
East Gwillimbury ON L0G 1V0
Canada
Students in Grades 10, 11 and 12 have the chance to Experience the Career at a unique expo showcasing emergency services from across York Region.
Attendees will be treated to live demonstrations, hands-on activities and interactive presentations. They will also have the opportunity to connect with first responders, recruitment teams and post-secondary program co-ordinators.
Parents are welcome to attend.
Session 1: 9 a.m.
Session 2: 12 p.m.
Please register for only one session. No walk-ins will be permitted.
*More information regarding parking and registration will be sent via email prior to the event.