Providing Opportunities to Make a Difference
Graduation/Prom - Parent Decorating Committee Meeting
The Gonzaga Prom date and venue have already been secured and will take place on Saturday, June 7th, 2025 at the Sheraton Hotel Newfoundland. We will be holding a parent meeting on Thursday, November 7th, 2024 at 5:30pm in the LRC for any and all parents who would like to help out with the planning and decorating process of this day. This meeting is for all parents, not just those of the graduating class. In the past the Grades 10 and 11 parents would step up to help out with the planning and decorating for the graduating class as the Grade 12 parents would be busy with their children on that day.
PowerSchool/ReportCards
Marks will be unavailable on PowerSchool starting on today, Friday, November 1st until the release of the electronic report cards on November 15th. All other PowerSchool functions and Rycor will be operational.
Parent-teacher Conferences will take place on Thursday, November 21st.
Cafeteria Closure
The Gonzaga Cafeteria food service will be unavailable, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday of next week, November 6-8th, 2024. The cafeteria will remain open for students to eat their lunch. Food service will resume on Tuesday, November 12th, 2024.
Environmental Club
The Environmental Club is hosting its first Lunch & Learn of the year, focused on the science behind climate change. Join us on Friday, November 8th, from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM in the library. We will have a guest speaker from the Conservation Corps who will share valuable insights on green jobs, innovative solutions to climate change such as carbon capture technology and more!
Lunch will be provided.
Please sign up as soon as possible through the following link, as seats are limited: https://forms.gle/jcx7YhprkLvaVS5s9
This is a great opportunity to explore and engage in topics related to sustainability and environmental action!
For any questions, please contact Samiran Chauhan at schauhan_s@nlesd.ca or Mr. Mandeville at brianmandville@nlesd.ca.
Picture Retake Date
Picture retakes will take place on Thursday, November 14th, 2024.
Lester B.Pearson Scholarship
Have you heard of the global education movement called UWC? With the shared belief that education can be a force to unite people, nations, and cultures towards a more peaceful and sustainable future, there are 18 UWC campuses across 4 continents worldwide! Designed for students between the ages of 16-19 - they can complete this 2 year program (G11/12+ program) and experience the opportunity to travel the world, experience an incredible outdoor education pursuits program, all the while studying with 199 other students from 100 countries!
Each year, the NL Govt supports a fully funded scholarship for a student from NL to attend Pearson College UWC. Over the past 2 years alone, our local NL UWC Selections Team has supported 9 students in attending Pearson College UWC, UWC Adriatic, and UWC Mostar. We would love to see the numbers continue to grow!
This year the deadline to apply for the scholarship is Nov. 6th Students can apply by visiting the following website and completing the application form: https://www.pearsoncollege.ca/student-experience/admissions/. Students must apply through the UWC Canada link on this page.
Please note that students who apply for this scholarship are automatically considered for other scholarships offered by United World Colleges (UWC) as well as for other admission opportunities to UWC schools.
Kids Eat Smart - Radiothon
Kids Eat Smart is having a Radiothon October 30!
You can support our Breakfast Club by designating your gift to our school at www.kidseatsmart.ca or phone 1. 877.722.1996
Every $1 raised is a breakfast!
@KidsEatSmartNL @NLTeachersAssoc @NLSchools @VOCMCares
School Closed - Professional Development Day
School will be closed for students on Friday, October 25th due to a professional development day for staff.
Help Shape the Future of Education
Education Accord NL is working toward a 10-year education transformation and wants to hear from you to improve educational experiences and outcomes in our province.
Please take 15 - 20 minutes and share your thoughts by completing the Education Accord NL online survey at educationaccordnl.ca/survey. All responses from the survey are anonymous.
We are looking for feedback from educators, educational support staff, administration, parents, caregivers, community members, and students who are 15 years of age or older.
Visit our website for more information educationaccordnl.ca
Scholarship Information Night
Thank you to all the families that were able to attend our scholarship information night on October 7th. For those that were unable to attend, a copy of the presentation can be found below.
School Closure- Thanksgiving Holiday
Schools will be closed on Monday, October 14th to celebrate Thanksgiving Day. Students will return to school on Tuesday, October 15th and it will be Day 1 on the schedule.
Mid-Course Evaluations
We will be having 10% midterm exams from Friday, November 1st - Thursday, November 7th. Classes will continue during this week as exams are only 1 period in length. A copy of the schedule can be found here. Classes will resume on Friday, November 8th.
Yearbooks
2023-2024 yearbooks have arrived. If you have ordered one you can pick it up at the main office.
Gonzaga Student Council’s Clothing Order Fundraiser
The Student Council is engaging in their annual fundraiser again this year with their clothing order. The official Gonzaga Merchandise Store is now open at the following link: https://gonzagavikings.itemorder.com/shop/home/. Students and families will be able to go online to choose and pay for their clothes/items from today until Friday, October 18th at 11:59 pm. THERE WILL BE NO ORDERS PROCESSED AFTER THIS DEADLINE. If students/families miss this deadline, they will have to wait until our next online order which will happen in the winter sometime. All graduation hoodies/items will be posted on another order in the winter/spring. All clothing items purchased during this order will be delivered to students here at Gonzaga prior to the Christmas Break. This is a great opportunity to pick up some Gonzaga swag for the whole family and to help support the Gonzaga Student Council initiatives this year. They will make great gifts for the holidays!
Picture Day
Picture day will take place for all students on Tuesday, September 24th. Information on Graduation photos will be sent out when it becomes available.
Curriculum Night
Curriculum night is going to take place this Thursday, September 26th from 7:00 - 8:00 pm. Doors will open at 6:30 pm. Parents / guardians are free to move throughout the building until 7:00 pm. At that time, we ask that parents/guardians go directly to their child’s slot A class on Day 1 of semester 1. You will follow your child’s daily schedule for semester 1. Please have a copy of your child’s schedule. If you have any specific questions pertaining to your child, please email the teacher directly after your meeting.
Slot A (Period 1 Day 1) from 7:00 - 7:15 pm
Slot B (Period 2 Day 1) from 7:15 - 7:30 pm
Slot C (Period 3 Day 1) from 7:30 - 7:45 pm
Slot D (Period 4 Day 1) from 7:45 - 8:00 pm
School Council
If there are any parents who may be interested in becoming part of our School Council, please email Mr. Cluney at andrewcluney@nlschools.ca.
No Cafeteria Service - Sept 13th, 2024
Due to unforeseen circumstances, there will be no cafeteria service tomorrow, Friday, September 13th, 2024. Service should resume on Monday, September 16th.
EF Tour - Greece Easter 2025
There will be a meeting for any students interested in travelling to Greece this Easter 2025 in room 412, Mr. Colford's room, at 11:30 am tomorrow, Tuesday, September 10th. This meeting is for anyone who is already signed up and anyone who is interested in signing up. There will be a parent registration meeting this Thursday, September 12th. Details of this meeting will be sent out through the Google Classroom. The code to the EF Tour Google Classroom is etlgxny.
Course Change Request Form
You must use your NLSCHOOLS account in order to complete this form.
Students will have an opportunity to request course changes on Wednesday, September 4th at 3:00 pm. We will open the following Course Change Request Form for students to access and request changes to their schedules. No changes will be made due to teacher or friend requests. Our courses are near capacity and movement will be limited. Priority will be given to Level 3 students, based on graduation requirements. This form will open at 3:00 pm on Wednesday, September 4th and will close at 3:00 pm on Friday, September 6th, 2024.
Welcome and Welcome Back
Welcome and welcome back to all of our students and families for the 2024-25 school year! Please see our Welcome Back Memo.
This year we have changed our newsletter format. The new format is more compatible with smartphone devices and offers instant translation services if needed.
Please enjoy the last few days of your summer break! We look forward to working together throughout the year to ensure that all our students find success and have a great year.
Gonzaga's Year in Review
Please see the slideshow presentation below that highlights many of clubs and activities offered at Gonzaga High School. Thank you to Ms. Gardiner for taking the time to put the presentation together.
Year in Review
Alumnus of the Year
The Alumnus of the Year award is named in honour of Michael F. Galway, a former member of the Gonzaga High School Staff. We are pleased to announce that this year’s deserving winner is Mr. Paul Westcott. To learn more about Mr. Westcott and his accomplishments, please read his bio below.
Once again, we would like to congratulate Paul on being this year's recipient.
Powerschool Password Reset
The Department of Education is requiring all students to change their Powerschool passwords due to an updated security patch. As of Monday morning, students will be prompted to change their Powerschool password. In order to do this, students must know their current login information as it is required before making the change. If for some reason, the student does not know their login information, powerschool login letters for each student have been printed and are available for pickup at the main office.
Please note that students will need to log in using a web browser, not the PowerSchool app. They can use the web browser on a phone or tablet, it does not have to be a computer.
Transcripts
The Department of Education will be releasing high school transcripts electronically in July following the mark collection and graduation determination process. Students are able to access their transcripts through the student portal in PowerSchool. Please see the important memo below from the Department of Education regarding accessing student transcripts.
Return of Grade 12 & Level 4 Chromebooks
Our school is now in the process of requesting the return of Chromebooks specifically loaned to students based on the signed Chromebook Loan Agreement.
These Chromebooks will be collected from Grade 12 and Level 4 students here at Gonzaga’s main office next week and no later than Friday, June 14th, 2024. Students must return their chromebooks, AC power charger and the protective sleeve in satisfactory condition and sign the return sheet to ensure that their chromebooks are accounted for.
Medquest
Please find the following opportunity for your high school students who are interested in a career in the health sciences organized by MedQuest. There is an online, virtual one-day event on Wednesday, August 28, 2024.
Interested students can register using the link below:
https://www.med.mun.ca/oped/programs/4758%20
Gonzaga Student Art Exhibit
Gonzaga's 2023-2024 Student Art Exhibit is a free public event and all are welcome to attend! It's happening this Tuesday, June 4th, all along Gonzaga's main floor from 5:45- 6:45 PM. Bring friends and family for an exploration of many art mediums and art styles from students in Visual Arts 1202, 2202 and 3202 courses. Our students have so much to celebrate!
Please note that Gonzaga's Spring Concert is doors away from this exhibit and starts at 7PM for anyone who planned to attend that event, as well.
Professional Development Day
Friday, May 31st will be a professional development day for staff. There will be no school for students.
Inherent Risk of Attending High School Parties
Please review the memo released by the RNC on Thursday, May 23rd, 2024 regarding the risks associated with attending high school parties.
Gonzaga Spring Concert
We are pleased to announce that our annual Spring concert will be held on Tuesday, June 4th, 2024 @ 7:00 pm in the school gymnasium. "Encore! A Year-End Extravaganza" will feature our Concert Choir, Concert Band, Stage Band, & student soloists. This year we are teaming up with McDonald Drive Junior High for a combined showcase of musical talent!
Tickets for this annual year-end event will be available at the door - $10 for adults & FREE for students/children.
Cumulative Assessemt Schedule
Our cumulative assessments will run from June 6th - June 14th. We will follow Day 1 on our schedule for the duration of the assessment period. A full copy of the schedule can be found here.
Mark Jackman Memorial Chess Tournament
Date: May 25th, 2024 - 8:30am-3:30pm NL Time
Registration Check-in: 8:30am-9:30am
Tournament Begins: 10am
Tournament Director: Tanish Bhatt (tbhatt_s@nlesd.ca)
Venue: Gonzaga High School Cafeteria and Library, 20 Smithville Crescent, St. John's, NL
Proceeds go to: Mark Jackman Memorial Fund and Memorial Scholarship
Prizes: Medals and certificates will be awarded to the winner and runner-up in each group. Additionally, each winner of each division will have their name engraved on the Mark Jackman Memorial Chess Tournament Perpetual Plaque.
Pre-Registration Deadline: May 23rd, at 3pm NST
Registration Fee: $21.50 for all players pre-registering
For more detailed information, please select the link below.
2023-2024 Gonzaga Yearbooks
Those looking to purchase a yearbook for the 2023-2024 school year, the details are below:
Go to: ybpay.lifetouch.ca
Enter code: 14054324
Price $45.00
Canadian Student Alcohol and Drugs Survey
Gonzaga has been selected to participate in the Health Canada 2023-2024 Canadian Student Alcohol and Drugs Survey (CSADS). As a parent/guardian of a student who is eligible to participate in the survey, the letter below provides an introduction to the project as well as important information about the survey and consent process.
For children under 19 years of age:
If you decide you want your child to participate, no further action is required from you.
If you decide you do NOT want your child to participate in the CSADS survey complete the on-line form to opt-out at: www.csads.ca/consent
To complete this online form, after entering the web address, please enter this online code: 0CC8B1C
If you do not have a computer or internet access you can contact CCI Research by phone at 1-866-450-4907 or complete the provided permission form and return it to your child’s school.
If this applies to more than one child, please complete the form separately for each child. For more information, please review the links below:
Multicultural Event
Peace and Justice will be hosting a school wide Multicultural Event that will be taking place on May 9th, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM in the cafeteria. The event is free for all Gonzaga students and will include a variety of cultural based foods and entertainment, as well as some keynote speakers that are invited to share their own cultures and traditions to participants. This will be a great opportunity to embrace multiculturalism from all over the world! Any questions can be directed to Tanish Bhatt (tbhatt_s@nlschools.ca) or Mr. Williams (williamwilliams@nlschools.ca).
Tech NL Immersion Program
The techNL High School Tech Immersion Program places grade 10-12 students from across Newfoundland and Labrador in technical and business roles with local technology companies during the summer. Through this program, students are exposed to new skills, networks, and career possibilities with the aim of inspiring youth to complete related post-secondary education and seek employment in the province’s technology sector. The deadline to apply is April 30th at 5:00 pm. For more inforation select the link below.
TechNL Immersion Program
Pop Up Prom Shop - Take 2
Gonzaga High School will be reopening its doors Saturday, April 27th, 2024 from 12:00 noon - 3:00 pm.to all graduating seniors from any high school.who would like free dress or suit.
Showcase
This Tuesday and Wednesday get ready for a night of some of rock n' roll's greatest hits! You'll hear the likes of Fleetwood Mac, Led Zeppelin, Foo Fighters, and Dolly Parton. This power packed show will also feature dancers and an aerialist.
All performers are students of Gonzaga High School.
Tuesday, April 23 & Wednesday, April 24
Door at 6:30 for a 7 PM start.
$10 at the door
Gonzaga Alumnus of the Year
The 2024 Gonzaga Alumnus of Year will be named during the Class of 2024 Celebration on June 20th, 2024. We are now seeking nominations from the school community. If you are aware of a past Gonzaga graduate that would be a deserving candidate, please complete the following form: 2024 Gonzaga Alumnus Form. Nominations will be accepted until Friday, May 17th at 12:00 pm.
Parent/Teacher Conferences
Our Parent/Teacher Conferences will take place on Thursday, April 25th from 1:00-6:30 pm with a common break for all teachers from 3:30-4:00 pm. OPTIS will be available for the booking of appointments from Friday, April 19th at 3:00pm until noon on Wednesday, April 24th. Students will be dismissed at 11:30 am on Thursday, April 25th. Conferences will be available to book either in person, virtually or by phone. OPTIS is now open for guardians to login or create their accounts.
Grad Photo Date - Extension
Due to the overwhelming response for photos, Lifetouch have extended their studio for 3 more days on April 22, 23 and 24. There will not be any more extensions after those dates are completed. Anyone who does not have their picture completed within this time frame will not be on the wall composite or appear in the school yearbook. Please see the booking information from Lifetouch below:
To book an appointment at our Studio which is located at the Holiday Inn Express and Suites by the airport on Navigator Ave please visit the following link and select St. John's Studio - Hotel as the school, not the school name from the drop down. Once you select this you need to select the $25.00 sitting and the dates and times will open up. You will need to create an account to complete the booking and select the date and time that best suits your schedule. Once the booking is confirmed you will receive an email confirmation as well as a reminder email 24 hours prior to the appointment date and time.
Photos will be done at the Holiday Inn Express and Suites by the Airport on Navigator Ave.
No Classes For Students
There are no classes for students on Friday April 12th due to a professional learning day for staff.
CAREER FAIR for all High School Students
Waterford Valley High School has scheduled an evening session for our Career Fair. They are inviting all high school students & their parents/guardians in St. John’s and surrounding areas to visit WVH on Thursday, April 11, from 7pm - 8pm.
This event will bring together representatives from local public & private post-secondary institutions and other organizations who can assist high school students with their career planning.
Below there is a link that list all the institutions and organizations that will be attending.
Teen Healthy Relationships Spring Session Registration Open
Planned Parenthood is offering the Ins and Outs of Healthy Relationships program for youth ages 14-19. This is a 12-week, virtual program. Through discussion, activities, and reflection work, they explore a wide range of topics with the goal of developing healthy relationships skills and awareness of unhealthy relationship red flags.
Day/Time: Tuesday evenings from 6pm - 8:30pm
Registration Deadline: Friday, April 12th , 2024
Program Start: Tuesday, April 16th, 2024
Program End: Tuesday, July 2nd, 2024
Format: Virtual (Zoom)
Registration Form: https://forms.gle/FFzD7tDPHdiZtu2k6
Pop up Prom Shop (P.U.P.S)
Gonzaga High school will be opening its doors this Saturday, April 13th, 2024 from 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm to all graduating seniors from ANY HIGH SCHOOL who would like a free dress/suit. Yes, we have both. For more information, please contact Ms. Tracy Gardiner at tracyanngardiner@nlschools.ca
Graduation Photos - Studio Appointments
For those students who missed the original day at the school or those wanting retakes, LifeTouch has decided to open a studio for the week of April 15th to April 19th by appointment only.
nd in the yearbook
To book an appointment at the studio, please click the link below and select St. John's Studio - Hotel as the school's name from the drop down, then select the basic $25.00 sitting, you will need to create an account to complete the booking and select the date and time that best suits your schedule. Once the booking is confirmed, you will receive an email confirmation as well as a reminder email 24 hours prior to the appointment date and time.
Photos will be done at the Holiday Inn Express and Suites by the Airport on Navigator Ave
https://booknow.appointment-plus.com/1dqjcnzg/
This will be the final opportunity for students to have their graduation photos done this year. All students who come into the studio will be included on the school's wall composite.
School development Survey Deadline Extended
The school development survey deadline has been extended to this Friday, March 29th. If you have not completed the survey, please select the link below. Thank you to all families who have previously taken the time to complete the survey.
Miss Achievement NL Leadership Program
Applications are now being accepted for the Miss Achievement Newfoundland and Labrador Leadership Program.
Girls in grades 7 to 12 are encouraged to apply to become this province’s next great youth ambassador.
Apply at nlachievement.ca before the March 31st deadline to experience the leadership opportunity of a lifetime and the chance to win thousands in scholarships.
School Clothing Order/Graduation Sweaters
The Student Council is engaging in their annual fundraiser this year with their clothing order. The official Gonzaga Merchandise Store is now open at the following link: https://gonzagavikings.itemorder.com/shop/home/. Students and families will be able to go online to choose and pay for their clothes/items from today until Friday March 15th at 11:59 pm. THERE WILL BE NO ORDERS PROCESSED AFTER THIS DEADLINE. This includes graduation sweaters. All graduate names have been posted outside of Mr. Cluney’s office this week and will remain until Monday, March 4th. Students have been asked to verify their names/spelling no later than Monday, March 4th. If any changes are to be made, students are asked to notify the school secretaries. All clothing items purchased during this order will be delivered to students here at Gonzaga in roughly 6-8 weeks. This is a great opportunity to pick up some Gonzaga swag for the whole family and to help support the Gonzaga Student Council initiatives this year!
School Development Surveys
This is a friendly reminder to complete the family survey for school development by today, March 15th, 2024. A copy of the link can be found here.
No Classes For Students
There are no classes for students today, Friday March 15th due to a professional learning day.
School Closure
Due to the weather forecasted for today, March 8th, schools in the St. John's metro area, including Gonzaga High School will be closed for the day.
Given the large amount of snow forecasted, the school will not be accessible during the day on Saturday to allow time to clear entrances and emergency exits.
WISE-NL
We are pleased to announce our 2024 Student Summer Employment Program (SSEP). SSEP is a program that offers valuable summer employment in STEM fields to young females completing Grade 11 (Grade 10 in Labrador). Student applications are now available on our SSEP website https://ssep.wisenl.ca/students. This year, the application process has been made more student, parent, and teacher-friendly as we are offering an online submission option (ssep.wisenl.ca/students/student-application-form). I am also attaching the complete, printable application form, as well as the 2024 Job Descriptions, General Information, and a poster for you to share with your students. This is all available on the website as well.
School Clothing Order/Graduation Sweaters
The Student Council is engaging in their annual fundraiser this year with their clothing order. The official Gonzaga Merchandise Store is now open at the following link: https://gonzagavikings.itemorder.com/shop/home/. Students and families will be able to go online to choose and pay for their clothes/items from today until Friday March 15th at 11:59 pm. THERE WILL BE NO ORDERS PROCESSED AFTER THIS DEADLINE. This includes graduation sweaters. All graduate names have been posted outside of Mr. Cluney’s office this week and will remain until Monday, March 4th. Students have been asked to verify their names/spelling no later than Monday, March 4th. If any changes are to be made, students are asked to notify the school secretaries. All clothing items purchased during this order will be delivered to students here at Gonzaga in roughly 6-8 weeks. This is a great opportunity to pick up some Gonzaga swag for the whole family and to help support the Gonzaga Student Council initiatives this year!
Breakfast Blitz
Today, February 29th @KidsEatSmart is having a province wide breakfast blitz. You can support our Breakfast Club by designating your gift to our school at www.kid
seatsmart.ca or phone 1. 877.722.1996
Every $1 raised is a breakfast for a child!
Youth Apprenticeship Summer Program-Student Applications
Student Applications for the Youth Apprenticeship Summer Program 2024 will open next Monday, March 4 at noon!
Just to confirm this year's process, jobs available in your region will be available for viewing based on skilled trade. Anyone can go in and view the postings and any students interested in applying can follow the steps on the website, www.yasp.ca.
This is a 7-week summer paid employment experience for students in grades 10 & 11 who are interested in working in the skilled trades. Successful students will be matched with employers in areas such as carpentry, electrical, heavy vehicle, and automotive. Students will be registered as apprentices and will start their hours towards their apprenticeship in that particular trade.
The jobs are limited and will be assessed as we receive them. This is a very exciting opportunity for students to start their careers in the trades. Once students view the jobs, they can apply through a link to a JotForm, and they will need to request a teacher to provide a reference. For teachers requested as a reference, we have a fillable JotForm for you to fill out as well, which is confidential.
Applications will close on Wednesday, March 27.
From March 4 to March 22, I will be offering online virtual chats to teachers and students interested in hearing about YASP. If you are interested, please let me know and we can arrange a time
Ocean Ranger Ceremony
Gonzaga's 42nd Annual Ocean Ranger Memorial Service will be held on Monday, February 19th, 2024 from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at Gonzaga High School.
A link to the livestream event can be found here.
School Closure
Due to the forecasted weather and the uncertainty in the intensity, schools in the St. John's Metro Region, including Gonzaga High School, will be closed for today, Thursday, February 15th.
School Closure
Due to the weather forecasted for today, February 14th, schools in the St. John's metro area, including Gonzaga High School will be closed for the day.
Harrison McCain Scholarship/Bursary
Students interested in receiving the Gonzaga nomination for the Harrison McCain Scholarship should email Mr. Moret by 3:00pm NL time on February 21st to state their interest. Please see the following letter and checklist for details regarding the 2024-25 competition for the Harrison McCain scholarship/bursary at Memorial University.
Each school is asked to nominate a maximum of one student.
The nominated student must download the application and email the completed application to ugschlrapply@mun.ca by 11:59 p.m. NST on Friday, March 1.
The application no longer has to verified by the school or signed by the principal.
If you have any questions, contact our office at 709-864-3956 or email scholarships@mun.ca.
Professional Development Day - Feb 9th
There is no school for students Friday, Feb 9th as teachers have a scheduled professional development day. It will be Day 4 on Monday.
Grade 9 Parents: Gonzaga Course Selection Process
The Gonzaga High School administration team will be holding an in-person session for parents of Grade 9 MDJH students on Monday, February 12th at 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM. During this meeting, they will go through the Level 1 course selection presentation/process for 2024-2025 and allow time at the end for anyone who would like to ask questions.
School Closure
Due to the forecasted inclement weather and the uncertainty surrounding the intensity and timing, schools in the St. Jon's Metro Region, including Gonzaga High School, will be closed for today, Tuesday, February 6, 2024.
42nd Annual Ocean Ranger Memorial Prayer Service
Gonzaga’s student body is invited to participate in Gonzaga's 42nd Annual Ocean Ranger Memorial Prayer Service on Thursday, February 15th, 2024 from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at the Basilica of St. John the Baptist.
All students will be bussed to the Basilica at 12:30 pm, with an earlier bus for band and choir members, and back in time for instruction in period 4. Students are not permitted to take their own vehicles. There is no cost to families for this event. Permission forms are available on RYCOR through the parent PowerSchool account under fees and forms. You cannot access the permission form through your child’s account. If a student does not complete the permission form, they will not be permitted to leave school grounds and will remain at school and watch the service virtually. All permission forms must be completed no later than Monday, February 12, 2024 at 9:00 am to ensure that the proper number of buses will be booked. To date, we only have 40 permission slips submitted.
National U 18 Curling Championships
Good luck to Lucas Wall who is competing at the National U18 Curling Championships from February 2nd - 11th in Ottawa. The entire Gonzaga Community will be cheering you on.
School Closed
School will be closed today, January 29th due to a teacher Professional Learning Day.
Math Contest
Any Level 1 or Level 2 students interested in writing the University of Waterloo Math contest should contact Mr. Williams. The deadline for registering is Feb. 01. The contests will be written on Feb. 15 at 9 a.m. You can contact Mr. Williams by visiting Room 208 or via email at williamwilliams@nlesd.ca
Center For Nursing Studies Practical Nursing Program
Here is some important information about our programs with your students. As our deadline for receiving applications for the PNP 2026 class is fast approaching (March 01, 2024), we would like to inform you that the CNS – PNP in partnership with the College of the North Atlantic (CNA) is inviting you to attend a virtual information session January 24, 2024 followed at a later date with an in-house recruitment session February 15, 2024.
See attached posters with a QR code to register for the virtual and / or in-house sessions.
Additional information regarding the PNP can be found using the following link:
Chess4Charity
On Saturday, February 3rd, Gonzaga will be hosting the 2nd Chess4Charity tournament! Boards and pieces will be supplied by the Gonzaga chess club.
Click here to sign up!
As well, the tournament is looking for volunteers - if you are interested in volunteering, click here to sign up!
The deadline to sign up to play or volunteer is January 31st! Registration Fee for students is $20. All proceeds go to United4Literacy to alleviate illiteracy in rural India.
Adventure & Voyage French Summer Program 2024 - Level 1 Students
Please see the information below from the Department of Education regarding Level 1 (Voyage and Adventure) French Summer programs. The deadline to apply is February 16, 2024.
Atlantic Veterinary College - Annual Vet Camp Information
For any students who are interested in pursuing a career as a Veterinarian, please see the information below regarding the Tim Ogilvie Atlantic Veterinary College Vet Camp, taking place in July 2024.
Miss Achievement Newfoundland and Labrador Leadership Program
Would you like to build leadership skills, get involved in your community and create a plan for the future? If so, the Miss Achievement Newfoundland and Labrador Leadership Program is looking for you! Participation will positively impact the life you already lead, and open doors you never dreamed possible. Combining an opportunity to win thousands of dollars in scholarships, with mentoring and community-based initiatives-we provide a life-changing, personal development experience that encourages motivates, and educates. Our leadership program will be held in St. John's from May 3-5, 2024, and is open to young women ages 13-18, in grades 7-12. Participants must be 13 years of age by the first day of the competition and no older than 18 by December 313, 2024. If you have any questions, email NLachievement@gmail.com or call: 709-730-8549.
Application deadline: March 31, 2024
Cumulative Assessments
Gonzaga’s Cumulative Assessments will be taking place from Thursday, January 18th, 2024 to Friday, January 26th, 2024. Regular classes will continue during this time. Any room disruptions will be posted on the classroom doors. To accommodate these assessments, from Thursday, January 18th to Friday January 26th, Gonzaga will follow the day 1 schedule, slots A and B in the AM session and slots C and D in the PM session, EACH DAY. The cumulative assessment schedule can be found here.
For students requiring accommodation an individual schedule will be provided directly to them by a member to the Student Support Services team.
It is important to note and please discuss the following with your children:
No electronic devices are permitted in the classroom while completing assessments (Cell phones; smart watches; chromebooks; etc) unless instructed by your teacher.
Food is not permitted in the classroom while completing assessments; water bottles are permitted.
Students are required to remain in the classroom for the entire duration of the first period in the AM and PM. If students have completed their assessments at the bell, they are welcome to attend their second class if it is not the current class which they are in.
CNS Practical Nurse Program Recruitment 2024
The Center for Nursing Studies is hosting a Practical Nursing Program recruitment / information open house on Thursday January 11, 2024 – From 7 – 8 PM at Southcott Hall, Miller Centre Room 104.
During the evening there will be a program information presentation followed by a tour of the school's facilities, with refreshments and an opportunity to meet faculty, staff and students.
Please see the attached poster for more information.
School Closed - January 5th
Due to the impending weather forecast for Jan 5th, school will be closed for the day. Regular classes will resume on Monday, Jan 8th.
Nomination Process for Schulich Award
Launched in 2012, this $100 million program funds 40 undergraduate scholarships each year, across top Canadian universities.* Our most promising students can pursue their dreams and become the next global pioneers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Scholarships range from $80,000 to $100,000.
They are innovators. They are Schulich Leaders.
40 scholarships are awarded each year
All Canadian high schools and secondary schools (not including Quebec) may submit one Schulich Leader Nominee each. Cégeps (in Quebec) may select two nominees each. Schulich Leader Nominees are selected by their individual schools and must possess at least two of three criteria:
Outstanding community, business or entrepreneurial leadership
Academic excellence
Financial need
If a student wants to be considered for selection as the Gonzaga Schulich nominee, he/she must submit the following to Mr. Moret by Friday, January 19, 2024 by 3:00pm NL standard time.
1. personal narrative outlining their community and/or business-entrepreneurial leadership experiences and the experiences in the STEM area, and how they feel they met the outlined criteria above
2. resume, outlining stem experience, work experience, education, awards/certificates, extra-curricular/volunteer experiences.
More info can be found at http://www.schulichleaders.com
Graduation Photo Retakes
Graduation photo retakes will take place on January 3rd and 4th for any Grade 12 student who missed their appointment for any reason or who need retakes. There is a list posted outside of Mr. Cluney’s office with scheduled times. Those students that need retakes will need to sign up in one of the empty slots on January 4th. Please bring your original proofs when having your pictures redone.
School Clothing Order
The school clothing order has arrived. All orders can be collected at the main office. Thank you for your support.
Christmas Concert Postponed
Due to unforeseen circumstances, the Christmas concert scheduled for tonight, Tuesday, December 12th is postponed until next Tuesday, December 19th. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.
Early Dismissal
Due to the weather forecast for this afternoon, students will be dismissed at 2:00 pm today, November 29th.
There will be no food service today in our cafeteria and all afterschool activities have been cancelled.
School Closures
School will be closed for the afternoon on Thursday, November 23rd for Parent Teacher Interviews.
School will be closed all day on Friday, November 24th due to teacher professional development.
President's Choice Children's Charity Program
Gonzaga High School would like to thank the President's Choice Power Full Kids Program for their generous support with our Breakfast Program. This program is available to all students Monday - Friday, 8:30-8:50 in Room 010 or from our breakfast trolley.
Parent/Teacher Conferences
Our Parent/Teacher Conferences will take place on Thursday, November 23rd from 1:00-6:30 pm with a common break for all teachers from 3:30-4:00 pm. OPTIS will be available for the booking of appointments from Friday, November 17th at 3:00pm until noon on Wednesday, November 22nd. Students will be dismissed at 11:30 am on Thursday, November 24th. Conferences will be available to book either in person, virtually or by phone. OPTIS is now open for guardians to login or create their accounts.
Please see instructions for OPTIS below:
OPTIS (Online Parent Teacher Interviews Scheduler) will be used to book interview times. The OPTIS web-link can be found on our school website or by entering the web-link below into your browser.
OPTIS
https://www.parentinterviews.com/gonzaga
You will be able to book appointments beginning Friday, November 17th at 3:00 pm. The system will remain open until noon on Wednesday, November 22nd at noon. If you do not have an OPTIS account you can register beginning today.
RISE Awards
Applications are now being accepted for the 2024 Research Inspired Student Enrichment (RISE) Awards program. The RISE Awards will be given to up to 15 Level II high school students who demonstrate academic excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
The Provincial Government is providing up to $256,000 for tuition, accommodations and a travel stipend for recipients to participate in renowned STEM enrichment programs. The award recipients will attend one of three research-related enrichment programs:
The Research Science Institute, located at Massachusetts Institute of Technology;
The Boston Leadership Institute, located in Wellesley, Massachusetts; or
The Da Vinci Engineering Enrichment Program, located at the University of Toronto.
The application deadline is Thursday, December 14, 2023 for eligible students completing Level II by June 2024. Further details on the research-related enrichment programs, awards structure, and eligibility criteria are available online (www.gov.nl.ca/riseawards).
Nursing Application Updates 2024
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing application is now open for the Fall 2024 admissions intake! Students have until January 20th, 2024 to apply. There are several changes to our admissions process this year, so we kindly ask you read this email in its entirety:
High school applicants are no longer required to submit their grade 12 mid-term transcripts. For high school students’ admissions averages, we will now be using their grade 11 marks. These marks are forwarded to MUN from the school board, so there is no need for students to submit their mid-term transcripts. (Unless students are coming from out of province or internationally, in which case, we require a copy of their transcripts).
For their admissions average, we will use the average from their grade 11 courses: grade 11 English, Math, Chemistry, Biology, and a social science or Modern Language course.
Students in the NL high school system must still complete the six grade 12 courses that we required in previous years. They are: BIOL 2201, BIOL 3201, CHEM 3202, MATH 3201, ENGL 3201, and a grade 12 social science or modern language course. Students completing a different curriculum (outside of Newfoundland and Labrador) would need to meet the equivalent of these six grade 12 courses.
We will check in June when final grades are released to ensure all six of these courses have been completed. We will also check to ensure that the average from these six courses are on par with the grade 11 average that was used for the admission averages. If there is a significant drop in the grade 12 average, Nursing reserves the right to revoke an offer of admission. (All admission offers are conditional for high school applicants).
The CASPer test is paused for the 2024 intake. Students are NOT required to complete this test.
There are no references required for applicants.
The personal statement is no longer required, but is left as a paragraph section on the application should students wish to communicate information to the Admissions Committee. But again, the personal statement is not required.
Students have the opportunity to rank their preferred campus choices: Centre for Nursing Studies, MUN, the Western Regional School of Nursing in Corner Brook, Grand Falls, Gander, or Happy Valley- Goose Bay. The same degree program is offered at all six sites.
High school applicants can only apply to the four-year degree option (they cannot apply to the accelerated option directly out of high school).
We have an open house happening at the MUN campus in St. John’s on November 23rd! Students can register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/open-house-memorial-university-faculty-of-nursing-nov-23-6-8-pm-tickets-755703638927?aff=oddtdtcreator I will be sending you a separate email with more information about this event.
As always, if you or your students have questions, feel free to call me at 709-864-8560 or email nursingadmissions@mun.ca. I am also available for in-person appointments on a drop-in basis, or by appointment, from 8:30-4:30 Monday-Friday in Office 3456 of the Faculty of Nursing (Health Sciences Centre).
Nursing OPEN HOUSE! St. John's Campus, Nov. 23rd
Students interested in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree are invited to attend the Open House at Memorial’s St. John’s campus on Thursday, November 23rd from 6-8 pm. Students will have the opportunity to explore the Nursing campus, classrooms, our learning resource centre, and simulation lab. There will be faculty members in attendance to answer questions as well as former students. A representative from the NL Health Services will also be in attendance to discuss future career opportunities. And of course, I will be there to answer any questions students have about Admissions! This is an exciting event and we encourage you to share this information with your students.
To register, please click here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/open-house-memorial-university-faculty-of-nursing-nov-23-6-8-pm-tickets-755703638927?aff=oddtdtcreator
MUN Early Entrance Scholarship Offers 2024-25
Memorial University will continue allocating early entrance scholarship offers under the new Transforming Our Horizons Entrance Scholarship program. Students are considered automatically for these when they apply for admission to Memorial. The admission application deadline is Friday, March 1, 2024.
New this year - Students applying for the Memorial University of Newfoundland Alumni Entrance Scholarship and Dr. Leslie Harris Memorial University Alumni Association Scholarship must submit a completed application by Friday, Dec. 15, 2023.
Students must also apply for admission to Memorial by Friday, Dec. 15, 2023.
The application is online and will be automatically sent to our office when a scholarship applicant clicks "submit."
Early scholarship offers do not require submission of a transcript as that information is available directly from the Department of Education.
If you have any questions, contact our office at 709-864-3956 or email scholarships@mun.ca.
Graduation Photos
Graduation photos will begin on Monday, November 27th. The schedule of photo times for individual students are located on a poster outside of Mr. Cluney’s office. Any student not on this list or who cannot make it to their assigned time is asked to please see the administration. All students must bring in their $25.00 sitting fee at the time of their appointment. The fee can be paid by cash, cheque, credit or debit. All cheques can be made out to LifeTouch.
No Cafeteria Service
There will be no food service in the cafeteria today, Monday, October 30th. The cafeteria will still be open for anyone who would like to bring in something from home.
Pearson Scholarship
Every year the Department of Education awards the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship to a Level 2 student in Newfoundland and Labrador. The scholarship provides funding for a student to attend Pearson College, a United World College in Victoria, BC, for 2 years. Students at UWC colleges complete the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program.
This year the deadline to apply for the scholarship is Nov. 1st. Students can apply by visiting the following website and completing the application form: https://www.pearsoncollege.ca/student-experience/admissions/
It is important to note that students who apply to this scholarship are automatically eligible to be considered for other scholarships offered by United World Colleges (UWC) as well as other admission opportunities to UWC schools.
The YouTube link below gives an overview of the UWC scholarship program which is supported by the Department of Education, Newfoundland & Labrador. If you are interested in applying for the scholarship, please watch the video and apply through the link above:
Gonzaga Student Council’s Clothing Order Fundraiser
The Student Council is engaging in their annual fundraiser again this year with their clothing order. The official Gonzaga Merchandise Store is now open at the following link: https://gonzagavikings.itemorder.com/shop/home/.
Students and families will be able to go online to choose and pay for their clothes/items from today until November 3rd at 11:59 pm. THERE WILL BE NO ORDERS PROCESSED AFTER THIS DEADLINE. If students/families miss this deadline, they will have to wait until our next online order which will happen in the winter sometime. All graduation hoodies/items will be posted on another order in the winter/spring.
All clothing items purchased during this order will be delivered to students here at Gonzaga prior to the Christmas Break. This is a great opportunity to pick up some Gonzaga swag for the whole family and to help support the Gonzaga Student Council initiatives this year. They will make great gifts for the holidays!
Rotary Youth Exchange
Rotary Youth Exchange will be hosting an information session on Oct 26th from 7:00 - 9:00 pm at the Marine Institute. Students in the program have an opportunity to learn a new language, discover another culture, and truly become global citizens. Exchanges for students ages 15-19 are sponsored by Rotary clubs in more than 100 countries. Please see the poster below for more information.
Gonzaga Student Wins Bandolero Championship
Level 2 student, and race car driver, Cullen O’Connor recently won the 2023 Bandolero Championship at Eastbound Park. We are excited to follow his racing career and wish him luck as he prepares to race in US Winter Nationals in Florida. Hear more about it here on a recent story on NTV.
Lester B. Pearson Scholarship
Every year the Department of Education awards the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship to a Level 2 student in Newfoundland and Labrador. The scholarship provides funding for a student to attend Pearson College, a United World College in Victoria, BC, for 2 years. Students at UWC colleges complete the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program.
This year the deadline to apply for the scholarship is Nov. 1st. Students can apply by visiting the following website and completing the application form: https://www.pearsoncollege.ca/student-experience/admissions/
It is important to note that students who apply to this scholarship are automatically eligible to be considered for other scholarships offered by United World Colleges (UWC) as well as other admission opportunities to UWC schools.
The Department of Education works closely with UWC Canada during the selection process and in order to assist students we are holding a combined Gov NL / UWC Canada special online information session this Thursday, Oct. 5th at 3:30 NL time. (3:00 in Labrador). All students interested in applying to the Pearson scholarship and UWC schools are welcome to attend. The information on this event is found below. I will be attending the Zoom call along with staff from UWC Canada and we look forward to answering any questions students have about the application process and will also give an overview of life and studies at UWC Pearson College.
TD Walk for Breakfast
TD Walk for Breakfast will be taking place Wednesday, October 4, 2023. You can donate online at www.kidseatsmart.ca and designate Gonzaga High School.
$1 raised is a breakfast for a child.
Support your local school Kids Eat Smart Club by donating online today www.kidseatsmart.ca.
Thanksgiving Food Drive
Hi Vikings! This week from Wednesday October 4th, to Friday October 6th The Peace and Justice committee will be running our annual Thanksgiving Food Drive. Non-perishable food items can be dropped in the boxes outside the office. Envelopes will also be available in every homeroom class to take monetary donations. Thanks for helping to support our community this Thanksgiving!
United4Literacy
United4Literacy is a Canadian nonprofit organization that looks to empower through education. Founded in 2011, the organization has raised $18 300 to support the education of more than 75 children in rural India, and collected more than 3000 resources for local classrooms across the country. The U4L team currently has many Gonzaga students and alumni as one of 30 members across Canada looking to empower change. So now it’s your turn! U4L is recruiting across the country, and applications have opened for volunteers. If you are looking for a meaningful opportunity to make a difference within your community and within the lives of many children across the world and for an opportunity to gain volunteer experience, start your application today by clicking here!
If you have any questions, please contact Tanish Bhatt, chair of the organization at tbhatt_s@nlesd.ca
School Closure
School will be closed on Monday, October 2nd to recognize Truth and Reconciliation Day. Students will return to school on Tuesday, October 3rd and it will be Day 4 on the schedule.
Coats for Kids Campaign
Rotary Interact and The Gonzaga Mental Health Coalition (GSMHC) are partnering this year for the Annual VOCM Cares - Coats for Kids Campaign. We hope to help ensure that families in need are kept warm this Winter. We will be accepting:
Winter wear of all ages is accepted including adult wear. (coats, boots, hats, mittens, scarves)
We ask that donated items are gently used or new. Please no broken zippers, soiled, or torn items, or out-of-season clothing. This is important for the safety and strength of the program.
Items will be accepted until October 18, 2023. For further information please contact Tracy Gardiner (tracyanngardiner@nlesd.ca)
Yearbooks
2022-2023 yearbooks have arrived. If you have ordered one you can pick it up at the main office.
Annual Scholarship Meeting
We are happy to announce that Gonzaga High School will be hosting its annual scholarship meeting on Tuesday, October 3rd at 7:00pm in the LRC. Parents/Guardians are welcome to attend with their student(s).
SHAD applications are now open!
Please see the link below for more details on the program and the application process.
Deadline for application is December 1, 2023.
A message from your Guidance Department
Here at Gonzaga High School, we want to do our very best to take care of your children while they spend their days with us learning and growing.
Please take a few moments to let Mrs. Tracy Gardiner know if your child has an Anaphylactic Allergy or other Medical Condition(s) that might need us to take extra special care of them. You can reach her at tracyanngardiner@nlesd.ca
Please also make sure your child has updated Anaphylaxis Forms completed. These must be done annually. This includes all students (Grades 10, 11, and 12). Click the following link or see the attachment for the form Anaphylaxis Emergency Plan Form.
Please ensure your child has 2 EpiPens! One on their person at all times and one that we keep in our emergency drawer in the main office. Mrs. Gardiner checks the expiry dates on those that have been dropped off previously. You will receive an email directly should your child's EpiPen be outdated or near the expiration date.
Please help us, help you, take care of your/our children.
Respectfully, your Gonzaga Guidance Team
Tracy Gardiner, Thomas Moret and Catherine Tansley
LORAN AWARD: applications now open!
https://loranscholar.ca/ Apply online. Deadline: October 11, 2023 8:00pm EST. See guidance for more info!
Gonzaga's Annual Scholarship Info Night
Gonzaga High School will be hosting its annual Scholarship Night on Tuesday, October 3rd at 7:00 pm in the LRC. Parents/Guardians are welcome to attend with their student(s). Please note, the Loran Scholarship Deadline is October 11, 2023. Applications are online.
The GCRC for our GCR is: vl2xpxd
St. F.X University applications open for 2024-25
Applications for the 2024-2025 academic year are officially open for applications. You can find a link to the application here: https://www.stfx.ca/applications-admissions/admissions-information StFX University is happy to offer a free application period from September 18th 2023 to October 31st, 2023 using the promo code: GOXGO2024. Please share this code with any and all students who may be interested in applying to StFX University.
Absences:
To report a student absence, please us the Safe Arrival System through PowerSchool. To learn more about this system and how to set up your account, please see here.
If your child will be adbsent for a partial day, please email the school secretaries at gonzagaabsences@gmail.com
Important Dates
Nov 1-7 - Midterm Examinations
Nov 11 - Remembrance Day Holiday
Nov 15 - Report Cards Released Electronically
Nov 21 - Parent-Teacher Interviews
Nov 22 - No School (PL Day)
Nov 26 - No School (PL Day)