Halloween Safety Message from Nanaimo RCMP
Recently federal drug enforcement units with the RCMP carried out search warrants at a number of cannabis dispensaries and seized thousands of counterfeit cannabis treats. One of these dispensaries was located in Nanaimo. Some of the gummies were found to contain 100 times the amount THC found in licensed dispensaries. The consumption of cannabis treats poses a significant health risk to children due to these high levels of THC.
At all times and especially at Halloween, parents need to be vigilant when checking their children’s candy. Unfortunately, there have several reported cases where gummies have been found mixed in with candy. These treats (see photo below) have been found in bags resembling chips, chocolate bars and a variety of other popular name-brand candies.
Some of the health effects associated with cannabis gummies by children consist of the following:
- Vomiting
- Agitation
- Confusion
- Slurred speech
- Unsteadiness on feet
- Slowed breathing
- Muscle weakness
If you suspect that your child has ingested cannabis gummies, they should be seen by a medical professional. If you find gummies in your children’s candy, remove them and report the incident to the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345.
Take Me Outside Day
This fall, Mrs. Orton's Kindergarten class from Cilaire Elementary have been visiting the Woodlands Farm helping with planting and learning about the importance of a garden. The students recently participated in the fruit tree and native perennial planting event. Tree Canada supported the event through a grant that covered plants, materials, maintenance and honorarium.
Leadership Student Forum
Nearly 50 leadership students from secondary schools across the district recently came together for the NDSS Student Forum 2024. Participants engaged in lively discussions at their tables, sharing challenges they face in student-led projects, exploring their leadership goals, and brainstorming ways to collaborate on larger initiatives.
Breakout sessions focused on mentoring younger students, improving communication between leadership groups, and identifying potential collaborative projects. Afterward, student leaders presented the ideas generated at their tables, fostering a dynamic exchange of insights and solutions.
The Fall Edition of ConnectED is Here
The fall edition of ConnectED, the digital magazine for staff and families of Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools is here. In this edition, you will learn about the new superintendent Robyn Gray and Trustee Tim Harris; you can also learn about the Elementary Outreach program at Dufferin.
There are images from the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the Blessing Ceremony at Wellington Secondary, and Katzberg Day. There is also the 68 Hoorays section and information about community programs and events.
Winter Wonders at École Quarterway
Mario Kart Tournament
Recently, John Barsby’s Darcy Brennan put on a Mario Kart Tournament for students of all grades. Tournament winner, Dante walked away with a $75 gift card to Tim Hortons! Congratulations!
For the past three years, Darcy has hosted students in a computer club at lunch and after school. As the students had expressed interest in playing games competitively with their classmates, he would arrange tournaments. Originally, they had used a Nintendo Switch borrowed from the Indigenous Education department, and then on a Switch purchased with the support of the PAC. Students have also fundraised to provide prizes and purchase new games. They’ve sold pizza on days when the cafeteria is closed, and Country Grocer sponsored a combined Computer Club / Outdoor Ed hot dog sale last year. Darcy appreciates the value in offering a competitive outlet other than a sport, and celebrating kids with different skills.
Darcy would like to invite other schools the chance to connect and build, creating more of a gaming community in Nanaimo and competing on a larger scale! If you’re interested, please email him - Darcy.Brennan@sd68.bc.ca
Fall Back - Daylight Saving Time Ends
Cinnabar Students Visit Fish Hatchery
Cinnabar Valley Elementary's Grade 2 class recently enjoyed an educational visit to the Nanaimo Fish Hatchery in Cedar. During their visit, students participated in three engaging stations: fish collection, where they learned about the hatchery’s role in sustaining salmon populations; a hands-on salmon dissection, which offered insights into the anatomy and lifecycle of salmon; and a scenic forest walk along the Nanaimo River, where they explored the surrounding ecosystem. This field trip highlighted the vital connections between water, trees, and wildlife, giving students a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship and the balance of nature.
This Sunday, November 3rd, the Nanaimo River Hatchery will host an open house from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, welcoming families to discover more about local conservation efforts and the significance of the hatchery's work in protecting regional salmon habitats. It's a wonderful opportunity for community members of all ages to learn, explore, and enjoy nature.
Healthy Relationships Workshop
BGC Central Vancouver Island has the McCreary Centre Society coming November 8, 2024 to facilitate a healthy relationships workshop for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth and allies. This a free workshop with lunch and snacks provided.
If there are youth or families interested, please email youth@bgccvi.com or gcomeau@bgccvi.com.
Credits:
Created with images by • оLeo Studio - Fall Back, Daylight Saving Time Ends, info banner with clock instruction to turning clock back one hour at November 3, 2024 with text reminder on border - Set your clocks back one hour.