November 7, 2025

Grade 8 Open House

International Trip News

Join us in May as we travel to Paris and Barcelona (pending approval).  Registration details can be found here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1isbn7LhE_RWuZ1xEvZBDczzW_wrubUgpbQ-STk97_Wc/edit?tab=t.0 

 To view trip details, click here: https://evolvetours.com/quote/paris-and-barcelona-2/ 

Any questions, contact Ms. Pilaram. 

School Council News

Our second School Council meeting took place on October 27, where parents and guardians received updates on a variety of events and initiatives happening at the school. TSAC and TWIC presidents began by sharing news about current and upcoming student activities. Earlier this fall, students enjoyed the Wellness Fair, held outdoors to promote overall well-being and mental health. Monthly Wellness Wednesdays continue to provide opportunities for relaxation and reflection through sensory walks and indoor meditation sessions.

Building on this momentum, the annual Thunder Rally introduced exciting plans for Spirit Week and Homecoming, which is set for November 20 and promises a fun evening for all. Mr. E., teacher representative, reported that many extracurricular activities are now in full swing. Students are preparing for Math and Computer Science contests, while those in Business classes will present at the U of T Global Ideas Institute in December. In addition, the Robotics Team has been invited to two competitions and will visit the observatory later this term.

Transitioning to post-secondary planning, the Head of Guidance, Ms. R., provided parents and guardians with an overview of the post-secondary application timeline and process. Detailed information was also presented to Grade 12 students in October. The session covered important deadlines for university and college applications, along with explanations for scholarships and bursaries. A document summarizing this information was distributed to students and posted in the Guidance Google Classroom, with additional copies available in the Guidance office.

To support the wide range of clubs, teams, and events at Thornlea, several fundraising initiatives were proposed and discussed. These include a Coffee House talent show, a lunchtime sports game featuring teachers versus students, and a Family Dinner with face painting. In addition to these fundraisers, parents and guardians are encouraged to support school spirit by paying the $35 annual SAC fee via SchoolCashOnline. As extra-curricular activities are not funded by the government, this fee directly benefits over 40 clubs, arts showcases, wellness events, STEM and math contests, spirit days, Culture Day, Thornstock, sustainability projects, Grade 9 Orientation, performances, and even transportation for field trips and sports. Your student will benefit directly from your contribution - thank you sincerely for your support!

Our next School Council meeting will take place on Monday, November 17 at 7pm. Parents and guardians are warmly invited to join us, share their ideas, and take part in supporting our school community. We look forward to seeing you there!

Let’s Stay Connected!

Let’s stay connected—sign up for our Email List to be the first to hear about our initiatives. If you have questions or would like to volunteer, we would love to hear from you. Together, we can make this a fantastic year for our students!

Thornlea School Council – 2025-2026

Executive Members: Aroon B. and Pengli C. (Co-chairs), Diana L. (Communication), Jane P. and Trisha T. (Secretaries), Khurram S. (Fundraising), and Susan S. (Treasurer)

Members at Large: Ali S.*, Eileen M., Erika G.*, Grace Y., Jenn I.*, Kenneth N., Reshmeen S., Sharon A. (* Fundraising Committee)

Contact Us: thornlea.ss@sc.yrdsb.ca

Pathways to Skilled Trades and Technology

Learn about the following:

• OYAP
• Pathway Planning
• Course Selection for Skilled Trades
• Experiential Learning Opportunities

Hear about career and pathway opportunities from...

• Industry Partners and Associations
• Colleges and Trade Unions
• Local employers

Date: Thursday, December 4, 2025

Time: 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm

Location: Cardinal Carter Catholic School

210 Bloomington Rd., Aurora ON L4G 0P9

Register now: https://forms.gle/gjSqPYJ5Wp2Zxujm9 

The Centre for Black Student Excellence presents "Understanding and Navigating the Education System"

Families of YRDSB Black Students Monthly Virtual Information Session

Families, parents, and caregivers are invited to join us for our monthly virtual meetings where families with Black children come together to learn about resources and upcoming programs for Black students in both elementary and secondary schools.

Agenda:

 Navigating New Narratives with Nobility and Notion
• Welcome and Engagement Exercise
• Presentation on Well-Being
• Upcoming Programs and Events
• Question and Answer Session

Please register as soon as possible. A virtual link will be sent after registration.

Let us come together to empower our students and build a stronger community.
We look forward to seeing you there.

When : Monday, November 24, 2025 - 6:30 to 8:30 PM

For further information, please email the Centre for Black Student Excellence (CBSE) at blackstudentexcellence@yrdsb.ca .

SEAS 2025 Family Engagement Series Launch

Join us at our Family Engagement evening focused on understanding educational pathways and celebrating student success! Experience an evening of rich cultural performances and hear the voices of East Asian students’ sharing their experiences in various educational pathways. 

*English, Mandarin, and Cantonese sessions will be available.

Location: Bill Crothers Secondary School
44 Main Street, Unionville L3R 2E4

Date:  Thursday, November 27, 2025

Time : 5:00 - 7:30 PM

Refreshments will be provided before the event, so come early and mingle! 

For more information please contact Inclusive School and Community Services (ISCS) at iscs@yrdsb.ca. 

Register for the event by November 25, 2025.

SEAS is an affinity group of educators and supporters who are committed to responding to the lived experiences of East Asian students by advocating for their improved achievement and well-being through equitable practices. Building relationships with students, families, educators, community members and partners is also a focus of our work.

This event is brought to you in partnership among YRDSB, Inclusive School & Community Services (ISCS), the Community and Partnership Developer team and Supporting East Asian Students (SEAS).