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News from the Nest - Feb. 28 to Mar. 4

February 25, 2022

Spotlight on Learning:  Compass

The simple definition of a compass is a device that shows you which direction you need to go and can take you there without anyone else. While within this definition implies isolation, there is a certain level of dependance on a tool that will help guide the individual towards a direction that they are seeking.

As our namesake, this form of dependency, and independence, is key into helping our young adults find their purpose and direction during their high school experience. Our primary purpose is for our kids to be able to gain a better understanding of themselves; their strengths, their weaknesses, their skills, their passions, and interests, and how to continue learning about themselves in the years following their time with us. We want them to be able to use their “compass” to help guide them towards independence through slowing extending their comfort zones and increase their confidence through independent success.

What does this look like? Well, that’s a tough-y, and simply, we won’t know until the individual tell us. Most of us know by now “one-size-fits-all” does not work. We work together in a collaborative manner to find the ‘directions’ that are most helpful, and then tailor make them for the individual. This can vary from counselling sessions, wellness checks, walking to class, providing a safe and calm space where neuro-receptors can reset, academic support, or providing food.

 Why do you do this…easy…because it’s needed. Currently in global stats, one in seven 10–19-year-olds experiences a mental disorder, accounting for 13% of the global burden of disease in this age group. Suicide is the fourth leading cause of death among 15-19 years-old, and the consequences of failing to address young adult mental health conditions continue to adulthood, which can limit career opportunities and impairing physical and mental health. These are the harsh truths we are aware of, and deal with daily.

All is not lost though.

We live in a world of accessibility, and the amount of mental health resources available are increasing. If there is a student that is seeking help, there are resources myself or Vanessa can direct you toward if needed. But also, we have an innate ability to heal; to seek light when dark, and to find water when thirsty. The hope that comes from connection is powerful, and the foundation of which we build on to point towards the direction of healing is what Compass is.

 Our Character Word of the Month is INTEGRITY

Integrity is a commitment to honesty that is clear because actions are consistent with stated beliefs or promises. Honest, truthful, trustworthy people have integrity.

​​How it can look when put into action:

  • Doing the right thing even when no one is watching.
  • Telling the truth.
  • Producing work that is honest and sincere.
  • Keeping confidences.
  • Keeping promises and commitments.
  • Communicating honestly, openly, and respectfully.

Rapid Antigen Tests for Students/Families

We will be receiving a shipment (expected this week but not here yet) of Rapid Antigen tests for our student/ family population.  Each student will receive one kit which contains 5 tests.  Attached below  are instructions with regards to when to test (if you have symptoms) and how to report your positive result.  As always, parents should be completing a daily health check with their child and students should be staying home when ill.  Lastly, just a reminder that hand hygiene and masks help us all to stay safe during this time

Congrats Careers Team

ChatterHigh is thrilled to congratulate WJ Mouat Secondary on placing 1st on the AAAA leaderboard for the first-ever the Money Management Competition.

An impressive 358 students from WJ Mouat Secondary participated in the competition by answering questions in the Money Management and Budgeting Module by the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada.

In the module, students were introduced to basic concepts and practical tips to help them build foundational skills and confidence around money management and budgeting. Module questions guided students through resources and tools on the FCAC website that they will be able to use throughout their financial journey, well beyond high school. Additionally, the module also included questions about students’ experiences and attitudes to test its overall effectiveness, ensure it has the desired impact, and help FCAC to improve the resource for students.

Early Dismissal Schedule

  • 8:04                      - warning
  • 8:10 to 9:00         - block 1- 50 mins
  • 9:06 to 9:56         - block 2 - 50 mins
  • 10:02 to 10:52     - block 3 - 50 mins
  • 10:58 to 11:48     - block 4 - 50mins
  • 11:55                    - bus pick up

Athletic Congrats!

Congratulations to Mouat Football's Ercy Avul who signed today with the Saskatchewan Huskies!

Mouat Hawks defeat Abby Senior Panthers in the EVAA Gr. 9 Boys Final earning a Fraser Valley Champions banner.  Both teams have earned a berth to the Gr. 9 Boys Provincials. The boys have qualified for the BC Championships March 3 to 6. Thank you, Coach Sran.

And our Senior Boys were in action Monday defeating Mission and played cross-town rivals Abbotsford Senior on Thursday in the semi-finals of the Eastern Fraser Valley Championships.  The boys played hard but alas’ the hoop was not very forgiving and took a tough 75-60 loss.    Thank you, Coach Rahlston.

Our Wrestling team under the direction of Coach Mitchell and crew are headed into Provincials running February 24 to March 1. Good luck!

 #PinkShirtDay #leadership

The moment you’ve all been waiting for!   https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1163482974460949

Diversity Week

Kudos to our leadership crew for their efforts leading Diversity Week.  We were honoured to celebrate the things that make us unique.  From the stop bullying messages, to standing together in pride or acknowledging the vast spaces and places that we have all immigrated from – we, Mouat, came together to support and lift each other up.

Course Planning Grade 12’s and 8’s into 9

This week counsellors lead our grade 11’s in planning their final year at Mouat and at the same time prepared for the next group of Hawks to walk through the door.  In preparation, our elective teachers took the opportunity to celebrate some of the awesomeness that happens each day in our building.  Peek:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h_GPgyzmups

Join the PAC Meeting on Monday, Feb. 28.

All Mouat parents are invited this Monday, February 28th at 7:00pm to our school's PAC meeting – held virtually on Zoom.   The link as been sent via email to all parents. 

Calendar: 

  • All February:
    • Black History Month
  • All March:
    • UFV, SFU, UBC Student Teachers in the Building
  •  
  • Monday, February 28
    • ABCD
    • Student Voice
    • PAC Mtg. 7pm
  • Tuesday, March 1
    • CDAB
    • Grade 8 into 9 Course Planning
      • Howe Middle
      • CDG Middle
  • Wednesday, March 2
    • BADC
  • Thursday, March 3
    • DCBA
  • Friday, March 4
    • SLO Day – ABCD