http://bit.ly/2fQh9bt

December 9, 2016
A MESSAGE FROM MR. KOZLOVIC TO PARENTS AND STUDENTS
By now, many of you have heard the news that the 2016/17 school year will be my last year as
Principal of Walnut Grove Secondary School. Last Wednesday, I announced to my staff that I am
being moved to DW Poppy Secondary School effective August 1, 2017. This was a difficult
announcement for me to make given that I have spent 17 of my 21 years in education as either a
teacher or administrator at WGSS. I consider the Walnut Grove staff and community to be like
family to me and have been a part of building and creating so many of the programs and structures
that are in place that make WGSS a great place to learn. I am very sad to be leaving such a fabulous
school with such an amazing staff, wonderful students and such a supportive community of parents
and community members who take pride in the terrific school that we have. While I am
disappointed to be leaving WGSS and given the choice, would have preferred to stay to continue
moving forward with many of the changes and improvements we have made over the past four years
that I have been Principal, I do feel fortunate that I will be able to remain here for the remainder of
the school year. I am certainly looking forward to enjoying my last six months at WGSS and
celebrating Graduation with our stellar Grad Class of 2017. I also plan to continue working hard
over the next six months to continue to push our staff to improve the learning environment for all
our students. Thank you again to all the staff, students and parents of Walnut Grove for all their
support over the past four years and especially over the last couple of weeks. Although I will be
somewhere else next year, I will always be a Gator at heart! As we approach the winter break, I also
want to wish all our students and their families a wonderful Christmas and a prosperous and healthy
2017!
George Kozlovic
Principal
DRUG AWARENESS WEEK
Thank you to all staff for their contribution to making Drug Awareness week at WGSS a success!
Special thanks to Rosemary Davis, Darleen Kifiak and Rachelle Twemlow for being the main staff
members behind this important event and to our entire Counselling Department for all their
assistance inputting this week together. Below is a link to the poignant video produced by our
students for the event.
http://bit.ly/2fQh9bt

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FIRST REPORT CARD
The first formal report card of the 2016/17 school year will be distributed to students during the
morning on Friday December 9. Below are a couple of important messages regarding some changes
to reporting practices that parents will notice this year as a result of the redesigned curriculum and
changes to reporting standards as set out by the Ministry of Education:
Students in grade 8 and 9 courses will only receive a letter grade to inform parents how they
are performing in relation to the new big ideas, curricular competencies and content. They
will not receive percentages on their report cards unless they are registered in a grade 10 or
higher class.
Students in grade 10-12 will receive a letter grade and percentage on their second and final
report card for student transcript purposes and for reporting to post-secondary institutions.
In some cases on the first report, teachers have only provided a letter grade based on the
amount of assessment that has been compiled up to this point in time in the school year. If
students are applying to post-secondary institutions in Eastern Canada or the United States,
they will still be able to get percentages for these courses from their classroom teacher.
All students in Grades 8 to 12 will also receive a work habit connected to our new WGSS
Work Habits Rubric (see next page).
All students in Grades 8 to 12 should also receive a minimum of one comment that covers at
least one of the aspects of their learning outcomes as outlined below:
o What the student is able to do
o Areas in which the student requires further attention or development
o Ways of supporting the student in his or her learning
o Describe student behaviour, including information on attitudes, work habits, effort
and social responsibility
It is important for parents and students to remember that the first report card is simply a
snapshot of a student’s learning up to Friday November 25, and should not be viewed as a
end point to a student’s learning. Almost all of our teachers are now using a cumulative
marking system that bases a student’s overall mark on learning from September to June, as
opposed to averaging terms. This provides a better reflection of a students’ growth and
learning over time and allows students to improve their learning in specific areas throughout
the course of the school year.
Given some of the changes noted above, we will not be doing any Honour Roll recognition
at the conclusion of the first and second reporting period. The recognition of honour roll for
students in grade 10-12 will take place at the end of the school year, based on assessment
that is truly reflective of a year’s worth of learning. As a staff, we will also be looking at
different ways to recognize students in grades 8 and 9 as we will no longer be able to base
our grade 8 and 9 honour roll on percentages. More information will be forthcoming in
January on these topics.
As a staff, our school goal this year has been around building a culture in our school where the focus
is less on grades and more on learning. As part of this focus, we have also spent a great deal of time
working on assessment practices that foster feedback and growth as opposed to just marks. Some of
the changes that are referred to above are reflective of this shift along with the changes in
curriculum and assessment being introduced by the Ministry of Education. To read more about the
ongoing changes to our provincial education system, please visit https://curriculum.gov.bc.ca/

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WGSS WORK HABITS RUBRIC
WGSS – Work Habit Self Evaluation
Student:______________________
Teacher:______________________
Course:_________________________ Block:_______
Term: __________
Criteria Excellent Good Satisfactory Needs Improvement
Responsibility
Student is prepared to start the
class on time: is seated and
ready to start working when the
second bell rings, with all
necessary materials (text,
dictionary, binder, paper, pen).
No unexcused absences. All
assignments are diligently
completed prior to or by the due
date. Phone is only used for
educational purposes. This
student leads by example.
Student is prepared to start
the class on time: is seated
and ready to start working
when the second bell rings,
with all necessary materials
(text, dictionary, binder,
paper, pen). No unexcused
absences. All assignments are
completed with care by the
due date. Phone is only used
for educational purposes.
Student generally
arrives on time with
most of the necessary
materials (text,
dictionary, binder,
paper, pen). No
unexcused absences.
Most assignments are
completed by the due
date. Occasionally
distracted by cell
phone.
Student arrives to class,
often late, lacking
some/or all the
necessary materials
(text, dictionary, binder,
paper, pen and/or
pencil). Has unexcused
absences. Submits
assignments late or
incomplete. Cell phone
distracts from learning.
Cooperation
Always works well with students
and teacher. Demonstrates
respect for all individuals and for
the learning environment.
Demonstrates leadership in
group activities.
Always works well with
students and teacher.
Demonstrates respect for all
individuals and for the
learning environment.
Contributes to group
activities.
Usually works well with
students and teacher.
Usually demonstrates
respect for the learning
environment.
Contributes minimally
to group activities.
Seldom works well with
students and teacher.
Does not demonstrate
respect for individuals or
the learning
environment. Disrupts
group activities.
Independence
Self‐directed learner. Always
takes initiative, perseveres with
challenging tasks and
demonstrates proactive
planning (absences, Flex). Is
always well prepared for
summative tasks.
Self‐directed learner most of
the time. When absent,
missed work is completed
promptly. Flex is planned. Is
usually well prepared for
summative tasks.
Works independently
when prompted. Often
requires guidance.
When absent, missed
work is often an
afterthought.
Sometimes plans Flex.
Is sometimes prepared
for summative tasks.
Unable to work
independently. Relies
on the help of others.
Does not catch up on
missed work unless
prompted. Seldom plans
Flex. Is seldom prepared
for summative tasks.
Participation
On task for the entire class.
Completes all activities well with
effort and enthusiasm.
Contributes to the success of the
class. When task is completed,
uses time productively. Helps
others.
On task for the entire class.
Completes all activities with
effort and enthusiasm.
Contributes to the success of
the class. When task is
completed, uses time
productively
On task for most of the
class. Completes most
activities with some
effort and enthusiasm.
Passive participant.
Requires one on one
attention to stay on task.
Does not complete
activities with effort and
enthusiasm. Disruptive
to others.

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NEW CURRICULUM UPDATE

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STUDENT WELLNESS
As parents and guardians, we are always looking for ways to help our students deal with different
issues around physical and mental wellbeing. Please check out some of the excellent information
and resources available on our school website. Follow these tabs:
wgss.ca
Programs & Departments
Counselling & Careers
Click on
Click on Resources top tab
But don't stop there! Feel free to browse and read information under other headings as well.
UPCOMING GUEST SPEAKER
WGSS is pleased to announce that we have been able to secure Dr. Kristin Buhr, Director at the
North Shore Stress and Anxiety Clinic, to do a workshop for WGSS parents on January 24, 2017 at
7:00 pm. More information will be available in January including how you may secure tickets for
this event.
The focus of Dr. Buhr's workshop will be providing parents with tools to help their adolescent more
effectively manage their anxious feelings and be successful at school.

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WARM HANDS, WARM HEARTS
Please take a moment this weekend and check through your closets and drawers for any items that
you might have to donate to our annual Warm Hands, Warm Hearts Campaign! Grade 8 students
should bring donations to their 1-1 class while Grade 9-12 students can drop off their items in the
collection boxes available at the main office and outside room 181 and room 258. The last day for
collection will be December 12.

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LANGLEY CHRISTMAS BUREAU
This year Walnut Grove is helping to collect donations for the Langley Christmas Bureau. Every
year the Christmas Bureau collects donations from the community and puts together hampers that
are delivered to local families who are struggling to feed themselves over the holiday season. This
year, our school will be collecting items for over 15 families in need. Items include dry goods to
incorporate into a Christmas dinner or breakfast and cash donations for gifts. Any help that you can
offer would be greatly appreciated. One area of collection that traditionally lags in donations are
gifts for teens. Students at WGSS have put together a Teens for Teens gift list (see below) and we
hope that you can include one of these items with your food contribution to this wonderful program.
All items need to be collected and dropped off in our hamper box in the office or participating
classrooms by Monday December 12.
Thank you in advance for your help in supporting those families in our community who are most in
need this holiday season.

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COLLABORATION DAY MONDAY JANUARY 9
EARLY DISMISSAL AT 1:29 PM
Monday January 9 is the third of six Collaboration Days across the Langley School District. The
bell schedule for the day will be:
Welcome Bell:
Period 1 (2-1):
Period 2 (2-2):
Period 3 (2-3):
Lunch:
Period 4 (2-4):
8:25 AM
8:30 – 9:32 AM
9:38 – 10:40 AM
10:46 – 11:48 AM
11:48 AM– 12:22 PM
12:27 – 1:29 PM
CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS
First term report card goes home – Friday December 9
Last day before Christmas vacation – Friday December 16
Back to school – Tuesday January 3, 2017
Collaboration Day – Monday January 9
PAC Meeting – Tuesday January 10 at 7 PM in WGSS Library
Dry Grad 2017 Parent Meeting – Monday January 16 at 7 PM in WGSS Library

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COURSE PLANNING EVENING DATES FOR 2017/18
Although it is hard to believe since we haven’t even reached 2017 yet, but plans are already
underway for the 2017/18 school year. Please put these dates on your new 2017 calendar as these
will be the nights for our Course Planning Evenings for parents. All meetings take place in the
Library starting at 7 pm unless otherwise noted. The grade signifies the grade your son/daughter is
currently in this year.
ELL/ISP Information and Course Planning Evening – February 1 @ 7:00 pm
Grade 7 Open House – February 2 - 6:30 pm
Grade 8 (into grade 9) Course Planning Evening – February 9 @ 7:00 pm
Grade 9 (into grade 10) Course Planning Evening – February 8 @ 7:00 pm
Grade 10/11 (into 11/12) Course Planning Evening – February 7 @ 7:00pm
MyEDBC PARENT AND STUDENT PORTAL
Speaking of marks, report cards and courses for next year, this February, WGSS students will be
utilizing our online information system, called MyEDBC, to enter in their course choices for the
2017/2018 school year. Students used this system last year to enter in their courses so most will be
familiar with it, but we will be providing a detailed set of instructions should there be any questions.
As part of the use of this system, we are excited to announce that parents will now also get access to
MyEDBC through its parent portal. This portal will enable parents to view information related to
student attendance and grades for those teachers using the MyED Gradebook. Our second and final
report cards will also be available to be viewed through the parent and student portals in MyEDBC.
Each student and parent will be receiving instructions on how to log in and view the content that is
available. Once set up, the student and parent portals are accessible through any internet web
browser. More information will be sent out regarding this process near the end of January. Should
you have any questions, please feel free to contact school administration.
WILLOWBROOK MALL GIFTWRAPPING
HELP THE WGSS LIBRARY ADVISORY COUNCIL
Each year the WGSS Library Advisory Council fundraises by covering some shifts at the Langley
School Foundation's gift wrapping booth at Willowbrook Mall. The students are eager to help but
we are rather short of the necessary parent volunteers to either gift wrap or assist at the front desk
taking orders and handling payments. If you are able to assist with any shifts, the WGSS Library
would be most grateful. Times available are:
Saturday, December 10 from 9:30 AM – 1 PM or 1-5 PM.
Monday, December 12 from 5-9 PM
Friday, December 16 from 5-9 PM
It's a great deal of fun, the time passes quickly, and the project will get you in the Christmas
spirit. Plus you'll meet the great students in our Library Advisory Council, and help our Library
earn funds to purchase new books for our collection!

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INFORMATION ABOUT SCHOOL STATUS DURING INCLEMENT WEATHER
Snow closures and power outages are an annual occurrence in Langley School District. So, where
do you go to get information about the status of schools during periods of inclement weather? If
you can access the internet via computer or smartphone, current information about Langley schools
can be accessed at www.sd35.bc.ca. Alerts regarding school status will appear as a banner at the top
of the District website and all school websites. Clicking on ‘More Details’ will provide more
information. We will also post updates to Twitter @LangleySchools and Facebook
www.Facebook.com/LangleySchoolDistrict.
If you don’t have internet connectivity, but your phone is working, call a relative or friend in an area
that has not been affected by the storm and ask them to check the district website for you. Current
information is also recorded on the Langley School District’s Information Hotline at 604-532-1453.
(Do not hang up if your call is not connected right away). Local radio stations are also informed of
school status in Langley. Tune in to CKWX 1130 AM, CKNW 980 AM, Country Radio 107.1 FM
or CBC 690 AM for updates.
Please note that Langley District schools are all considered ‘open’ until a decision to close is
required. Decisions on school closures are usually made by 6:30 AM. As always, it is a parent’s
decision whether to send their child to school based on safety and individual circumstances. If you
feel it is unsafe for you or your child to travel to or attend an open school for any reason, please
keep your child home and report an absence to the school.
WGSS YEARBOOK ORDERS
December 16 is your last day to pre-purchase your 2017 Yearbook for $50. You can buy this year’s
book online with school fees at: http://wgss.ca/our-school/pay-your-school-fees/ or in person at the
office or see Ms. Norman in room #106. Cash or cheque made out to WGSS.

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WGSS LONGHOUSE OF RECONCILIATION
Scott Gordon, Art Teacher; Una-Ann Moyer, Aboriginal Support Worker; and Kym Norman, Art
Teacher are collaborating on a joint-project to create a “WGSS Longhouse” where all Walnut Grove
Secondary students and staff will come together to honour the past, recognize the identity of the
First Nations people and work towards our future together in reconciliation. We are proposing a
school-wide collaborative art insulation where all WGSS students & staff create tiles that represent
how they will be moving towards a future of reconciliation with our First Peoples. We have a
location selected in our newly refurbished courtyard for the completed art installation and will be
planning an ‘unveiling’ ceremony at which time we will be also hanging the Langley School
District’s plaque recognizing our commitment to “Truth and Reconciliation.”
We would like to see the materials reflect our local First Nations people, thus our ideal materials
would be Western Red Cedar, aluminum and copper. The left panel will have First Nations animals
and symbols (like the Raven) that represent our past. The far right panel will have First Nations
animals and symbols that represent our identity (like the Orca). And finally, our center panel will
represent our reconciliation as we move into the future (like the wolf, the moon and the eagle or
salmon). Students will create individual tiles (on copper) that would then be attached to the ‘pillars’
or posts of the longhouse and will represent the support of the WGSS community as we move from
the past into our future together.
What do we need to pursue this collaborative project?
We are looking for our parents and guardian’s support in either a donation of supplies and/or money.
Specifically, we are looking for the following items:
2-7ft 4X4 (true 4X4) Western Red Cedar
2-5ft 4X4 (true 4X4) Western Red Cedar
12-8ft 5 ¾” (14 approx.) planks of Western Red Cedar (eg. A cedar fence panel)
22-6ft 5 ¾” (14 approx.) planks of Western Red Cedar (eg. A cedar fence panel)
7 sheets of 6X36” (24 gauge) of copper-sheeting that would be cut down into small
tiles for students to create their designs on
3 2X4 10ft lengths (to mount the art installation to the wall)
3ft round cast aluminum or 3ft round sheet of aluminum that could be laser-carved
(or melted into a round) Coast Salish spindle-whorl
For more information please contact Una-Ann Moyer, umoyer@sd35.bc.ca, Scott Gordon,
sgordon@sd35.bc.ca, or Kym Norman knorman@sd35.bc.ca

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SENIOR BOYS VOLLEYBALL
6 TH at PROVINCIALS
Congratulations to our Senior Boys Volleyball team who finished 6th in BC in the AAA Provincial
Championships that took place over the weekend at the Langley Events Centre. The 6th place finish
marked the culmination of a strong two year run for this group of grade 12 players, led by Brett
Christensen, who was named a second team all-star at the tournament. Many thanks to Head Coach
Gary Lutes for all his time, effort and dedication to the team over the past three years!
GATOR STUDENTS PASSIONATE ABOUT YOUTH HOMELESSNESS
Two of our Grade 9 Gator students, Eunice Kang and Prabhasha Wickramaarachchi, are members of
the Langley Youth Homelessness Task Force, a group of young people from around Langley who
are on a mission to tackle the important issue of Youth Homelessness in our community. They both
recently wrote letters to the editor on this topic that were published in the Aldergrove Star and the
Langley Times. Please take a moment to read their letters and pleas for assistance and to find out
how you too can help provide a solution to this issue in Langley.
http://www.aldergrovestar.com/opinion/letters/402767826.html

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GUIDED LEARNING SESSION #2
As part of the continued evolution of Flex Time at WGSS, we have introduced Guided Learning
Sessions this year at WGSS. On the first day of each month, our staff are offering unique
workshops or learning opportunities for students during Flex Time. These are usually topics or
subjects that our staff are deeply passionate about or interested in sharing with students. Our most
recent sessions took place last week and included a Lacrosse session in the New Gym organized by
Mr. Stead and one of our SEA’s, Ms. Reid. We also had sessions on Yoga, Improv, and Highland
Dancing just to name a few. Our next set of Guided Learning Sessions will be happening on
February 1, 2017. Students should pay attention to the school website and GNN to learn more and
to sign up. Students who do not sign up for a GLS session on these days are expected to attend a
regular Flex block.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MR. ROY!
At WGSS, we are very fortunate to have an awesome custodial staff who work hard every day to
keep our big school as clean as possible. Recently, our day custodian, Mr. Roy, who opens our
school bright and early every morning, celebrated his birthday and even had his custodial cart
decorated for the occasion!

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WGSS ACE-IT PROFESSIONAL COOK TRAINING PROGRAM
Under the expert teaching of Vancouver Community College Instructor Laura Dawe, the 13 students
enrolled in the district ACE-IT Professional Cook Training Program continue to hone their cooking
and baking skills in the WGSS Cafeteria every Monday to Thursday afternoon from 2:30 to 7:30
pm. As we approach the Winter Break and Christmas, the students have been focusing on their
baking unit and have been providing Christmas baking for our staff and also sold some at our
Library Craft Fair this past week. Below are some photos of their recent work. Please pay close
attention to Gator Gossip in the spring as our ACE-IT students will be opening the Cafeteria for a
nightly full-scale dinner service starting just after spring break. More information is forthcoming
but basically they will be providing inexpensive, freshly cooked meals for any Walnut Grove
students, parents and community members who are looking for a night off from cooking at home.
They will also be offering dinner with a show during one evening of our spring musical production
of Beauty and the Beast! Lots to look forward to and there will be opportunities for students to sign
up for the program in the spring as well.

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GRAD SANTA BREAKFAST
On Thursday morning, our exceptional Grad Council hosted the annual Grad Santa Breakfast and
Ugly Christmas Sweater Day. Once again, our Grads of 2017 showed their tremendous Grad spirit
with a great turnout of students and many creative Christmas sweaters! The Grads were treated to
pancakes, sausages, hot chocolate and Starbucks Coffee and even a visit from Santa himself!
Congratulations to Rachel Macadam and Madison Cook who were awarded the prizes as the two
best Christmas theme dressed Grads!

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CHRISTMAS MUSIC CONCERT
On Wednesday evening, our WGSS Music Department kicked off the Christmas season with a
beautiful evening of music at our annual Christmas Music Concert. The event featured all our
Junior and Senior Concert and Jazz bands as well as our Junior and Senior Choir groups. There was
a great turnout in the gym for the event and although it was cold outside, Mr. Fawkes and Mr.
Angell even provided a warm fire to keep everyone cozy. Thanks to our fabulous music teachers for
all the work they do with our students and to our music students for all their hard work and practice!
COBS BREAD FUNDRAISER FOR WGSS PAC
WGSS PAC is excited to announce a new opportunity for our school to earn some money. When
you shop at COBS Bread (Walnut Gate location at the corner of 88th and 202nd), you can earn
money for our school simply by mentioning to the sales assistant that you are a parent, teacher or
student from WGSS. COBS will record our school name and purchase details in their system, and at
the end of year WGSS will receive 5% of those sales. Remember to simply mention our school
when shopping at the COBS Bread in Walnut Grove. It’s that easy!

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2016 GOVERNOR GENERAL’S ACADEMIC MEDAL WINNER
Congratulations to 2016 WGSS Grad, Megan Balzarini, who was recognized as our 2016 Governor
General’s Academic Medal winner. This medal is awarded to the graduate from each high school
that achieves the highest average of all their grade 11 and 12 courses upon graduating from a
secondary school. We award the medal every fall once all of the final marks from Grade 12 courses
and exams have been tabulated. Megan is currently studying at UBC and came by the school this
week on a break from studying for final exams to receive her medal.
FRAL 10 STUDENTS ATTEND FILM FESTIVAL
Back in November, a number of our French Immersion students had the unique opportunity you
attend a local French Film Festival. You can read more about their experience at the link below:
https://www.sd35.bc.ca/news-events/district-board-news/view/langley-immersionstudents-attend-french-film-festival

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BC ACHIEVEMENT SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS
We are very pleased to announce that we have recently been informed that 54 of our 2016 graduates
have been recognized as BC Achievement Scholarship winners based on their combined provincial
exam results from English 10, Math 10, Science 10, Social Studies 11 and English 12. The 54
recipients are:
Anmol Bajaj Hannah Ferguson Santhosh Nandakumar
Megan Balzarini Colby Foster Seung Kyung Oh
Chloe Barrick Daniel Getz Nicolas Ouellette
Arianna Bent Seung Heon Hyun Dareum Park
Harrison Breeze Kendra Jackson Ryan Peters
Chelsey Brien Dongsan Jung Brennan Prasad
Faith Brownlee Connor Kemp Isabel Scheier
Ethan Carlson Alice Kim Heather Steele
Colton Chandra Ha Eun Kim Jennifer Stevens
Megan Chisholm Min Ji Kim Alex Taneda
Erick Chmelyk Seung Yon Kim Narissa Taylor
Kristian Darlington Nayeon Ko Sophia Theodorakis
Amanda Dickson-Otty Beulah Lee Travis Thiesen
Brendan Dixon Cassandra Lumsden Nadia Tudhope
Angel Duran Cole MacEwen Kierstin Venne
Bailey Edwards Devon Mark Jo Wall
Hayley Eigenfeldt Serena Meister Wei Yu
Alejandro Estrada Joshua Messmer Anqi Zhong
KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION OPENS MONDAY JANUARY 16, 2017
All children who will be five years old by December 31, 2017 (children born in 2012) are eligible
for the Kindergarten program beginning September 5, 2017. Registrations received after March 31,
2017 will be considered late. Late registration may affect placement in your catchment school due
to space limitations.
The following documents are required at the time of registration:
Proof of Age (Birth Certificate).
Proof of Canadian Citizenship or Permanent Resident Status must be provided for the
parent (Canadian Birth Certificate, Canadian Citizenship Card, Canadian Passport,
Landed Immigrant documentation, Permanent Resident documentation/cards)
Proof of residence (Driver’s License, utility bill or Lease/Rental Agreement).
For more information and registration times please contact the appropriate elementary school. This
is also the same date that Walnut Grove Secondary School will begin accepting Out of Catchment
registrations for the 2017/18 school year.

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LOOKING FOR OPPORTUNITIES TO HELP OUR STUDENTS?
In June of 2016, 77 WGSS students received scholarship/award money from the WGSS scholarship
fund or Langley District Foundation scholarship fund towards their continuing education. As we
celebrate the growth of our school, we also recognize that fewer of our students will have access to
post-secondary scholarship and award monies because we have not had new donors step forward
and some trusts have expired.
At this time, we are reaching out to the community to support the funding of WGSS scholarships.
When individuals and businesses invest in youth, there is an excellent return on their investment. In
fact, the Canadian Council on Learning (2009) suggest that “people who attend post-secondary
institutions are more likely to have higher levels of life satisfaction, sustain a healthy lifestyle, and
be actively involved in their community.” As you read this, perhaps you received a scholarship
when you were in high school and remember what a significant difference that made in helping you
to pursue your current occupation.
As a member of the Walnut Grove Community, we encourage you to think about whom you would
like to nudge to consider participating in the scholarship program at WGSS…maybe your employer?
or, maybe your own business? Generally the scholarships are $300 – $500 and income tax receipts
are available. Donors specify their criteria – for example: financial need, trades program,
participation in a particular course of study or pursuing a particular occupational area, etc.
If you are aware of someone who might wish to contribute before the end of this tax year, they can
be in touch with Ms. Maureen Pepin. She would be more than happy to discuss the opportunities
available (m-fpepin@hotmail.com or at 604.856.8908). You can also contact either Mr. Kozlovic or
Ms. Kifiak for more information about how the scholarship fund directly benefits WGSS students.

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UPCOMING POST-SECONDARY EVENTS
Here are a few items that we thought all parents and students should be aware of:
UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA – Fly-In Event (Current Gr.11’s)
Fasten your seatbelts and get ready to take flight to a Top 5 university in Canada. Your ticket will
include flights, accommodations, and a whirlwind weekend of exciting events.
You’ll land in Alberta’s capital city — Edmonton — Canada’s largest, northernmost metropolis also
known as the festival city. Here you’ll discover our breathtaking North Campus, nestled in
Edmonton’s lush river valley and just steps away from the iconic Whyte Avenue district.
You and your fellow passengers will have the chance to stay on campus, check out state-of-the-art
facilities, learn about our 200+ programs, experience UAlberta student life and meet other amazing
students — just like you — from all across Canada.
Don't delay, this trip only has 20 seats!
Who: Open to Grade 11 students outside of Alberta*
When: May 12 - 14, 2017
Where: University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta
Apply by February 26, 2017
http://www.admissions.ualberta.ca/en/recruitment-events/boarding-ualberta.aspx
LANGLEY SASSY AWARDS - Service Above Self Student Youth Awards
The four Rotary Clubs of Langley are proud to announce the second annual SASSY Awards. Sassy
Awards recognize and celebrate the leadership achievements of Langley Youth who are making a
positive impact in our local and global community, thus exemplifying the ideals of Rotary.
Rotary will select one winner in each of seven categories and two runner ups:
1st Place wins $1000 bursary + $500 to registered charity of choice; 1st runner up: $500 to
registered charity of choice; 2nd runner up: $500 to registered charity of choice
Nominations are being accepted from youth aged 15 to 21 living in, and/or who have made a
significant impact in a leadership role within the Township or City of Langley.
Students may only apply to one of the following seven categories: Community Service (local)
Environmental Leadership International Service (global) Overcoming Adversity Youth
Leadership Arts & Culture Leadership Sports Leadership
Application Form and additional information is available at sassyawardslangley.ca/
The awards will be presented on Thursday, April 27 at Langley Fine Arts School.
Application Deadline: e-mailed on/or before Friday, March 3rd or postmarked on/or before Friday,
Feb. 24 th .
An information session for assistance with completing the Sassy application form is offered at
WGSS.
When: Friday, January 6th
Time: Flex (9:44-10:26)
Where: Library Annex

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THE RICK HANSEN FOUNDATION (RHF) YOUTH LEADERSHIP SUMMIT
The RHF is dedicated to developing a generation of youth that champion accessibility, diversity and
inclusion. As part of the Access4All initiative, and to help encourage this generation, RHF will be
hosting a three-day Youth Leadership Summit on May 20-22, 2017 in Ottawa.
The first RHF Youth Leadership Summit will bring together 50 young leaders – with and without
disabilities – from across the country to participate in activities focusing on accessibility and
inclusion for people with physical disabilities.
The Summit will be led by Rick Hansen and include a special line-up of activities including:
Inspirational presentations from Rick and other government, community, and corporate leaders;
special events and exclusive tours of iconic Canadian venues in Ottawa; and hands-on workshops on
accessibility and inclusion.
Who can apply to attend the Summit?
Youth who:
are 12-19 years old at the time of the Summit;
are residents of Canada; and
have demonstrated qualities exemplified by Rick Hansen and his life’s work: determination,
inspiration, courage, leadership, teamwork, and making a difference in the lives of others.
(This may be through participation in an RHF Access4All Barrier Buster project.)
All youth attending the Summit must be accompanied by a parent or legal adult guardian.
Is there a cost to attend?
There is no cost to attend the Summit. Participants will be provided with travel to and from Ottawa,
accessible accommodation, and meals for the youth delegate (and their accompanying parent/legal
guardian) when they are attending program events.
How can youth apply to attend the Summit?
Applicants must answer the following three questions via video (maximum of 5 minutes) or text
(maximum of 350 words per question) and submit their application online at
www.rickhansen.com/fluidreview by February 10, 2017.
How have you made a difference in your school or community?
Why is accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities important to you?
How would you share what you’ve learned at the Rick Hansen Foundation Youth
Leadership Summit with your school or community?
Have more questions? Check out our FAQ or email access4all@rickhansen.com.

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YOUTH INNOVATION DAY @ #BCTECH SUMMIT
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15, 2017
Youth Innovation Day @ BCTECH Summit is an opportunity for Grades 10 – 12 high school
students to attend a full day of events to explore the growing career prospects in the technology
sector.
Students will hear from inspiring speakers, chat with local researchers, connect with local tech
companies, get hands-on with the latest tech, and gather practical information from post-secondary
institutions and other education partners.
Keynote speakers:
Simone Giertz – Youtuber and Serial Inventor
Ben Parr – Author and former Mashable Editor
IBM
Activities:
Marketplace & startups
Research runway & technology showcase
Future realities – augmented, virtual and mixed applications
Tech @ play area
Breakout sessions:
Your future in tech
Careers in tech
VEX Robotics showcase
This event is FREE and we are planning to transport interested students via the GATOR bus.
Please contact Christy de Bulnes (cdebulnes@sd35.bc.ca) before December 15 th to reserve
your spot.

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DRY GRAD 2017 INFORMATION
Calling all Grad 2017 parents! There will be Dry Grad meetings on:
Monday, January 3
Monday, January 16
Monday, January 30
All meetings are at 7pm in the WGSS Library. We encourage all parents to come out and get
involved. There are still positions that need to be filled to help make this event a success. Also, if
you have not already done so, please use the following link to sign up for emails to keep you up to
date on dry grad events. https://goo.gl/forms/YVLGH1eC00mFwmx33
Dry Grad Fundraiser Canuck Club Seats
The Dry Grad parents are running a Buy A Square for $10 for a chance to win two club seats to
watch the Canucks play Calgary on February 18, 2017. Please see Mrs. Sargeant in the main office
to purchase.
Donations
We are looking for the following types of donations (min $20 value): cash donations (by cheque
payable to WGSS DryGrad), Canucks tickets, Giants Tickets, Spa/Hair Certificates, movie/gas/
restaurant gift cards - any kind of service or item that can easily be turned into a prize. Donations
may be left at the bin at the WGSS office (please give cash/gift card donations directly to office
staff)
Volunteers
We need a lot of volunteers – even if you only have an hour or two - we can use your help. Please
let us know where you can help.
Miscellaneous
Norlang Automotive on 88 th Avenue has kindly offered to give WGSS DryGrad $5 for every oil
change and 5% of the cost (up to $25) for every auto repair. All you have to say that you’re a WGSS
Parent.
Mobile 1 Lubeshop next to Norlang on 88 th Avenue has kindly offered $3 to WGSS DryGrad on
every oil change and $5 for all flushes. Again, just need to mention you’re a WGSS parent.

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2017 ANNUAL BRITISH COLUMBIA
JAPANESE SPEECH CONTEST
The Annual British Columbia Japanese Speech Contest is open to British Columbia and Yukon
residents who speak Japanese as a foreign or second language. The 2017 Contest will be held on
Saturday, March 4, 2017 at Asian Centre, The University of British Columbia.
The High School Division is tentatively scheduled to start at 10:00 am and the University/Open
Division at 1:00 pm. The finalized schedule will be published on Monday, February 20, 2017 on
the Consulate General of Japan’s website: www.vancouver.ca.emb-japan.go.jp Admission is free
and everyone is welcome to attend the event.
Each contest applicant must satisfy all the following criteria:
1. Is living, studying, or working in British Columbia or Yukon;
2. Speaks Japanese as a foreign or second language;
3. For the High School Division: Grades 10 - 12 students under 18 years of age,
For the University and Open Divisions: 18 or over 18 years of age;
4. Has previously not won the 1 st prize in the category for which the applicant is entering this
time.
5.
Each applicant is allowed to enter in one category only.
Division
High
School
Category
Maxim
Total Class
Hours
Example of
Course
in progress
or completed
Maxim
Stay in
Japan
Language
Spoken by
Parent(s)
Beginner
Intermediate
200 h.
400 h.
Up to Japanese 11
Japanese 12
3 months
12 months
Other than
Japanese
Open
- Unlimited No
Unlimited
restriction
Speech
Length
3 min.
4 min.
University/
Open
Beginner 250 h.
Intermediate 450 h.
Advanced Unlimited
Open Unlimited
Langara 1217
UVIC 150
UBC 200/260
SFU/CAPU/VIU
201
KPU 2201
UNBC 222
DOUG 2272
UVIC 200’s
UBC/SFU 300’s
UVIC 300’s/400’s
UBC 400’s
3 months
12 months
36 months
Other than
Japanese
- Unlimited No
restriction
4 min.
5 min.

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SPEECH TOPIC
Speech topics may be drawn from any field.
For reference, some of the past winner’s speeches are posted on the Consulate’s website.
http://www.vancouver.ca.emb-japan.go.jp/en/culture/culture_speech.htm
APPLICATION
1. Online application form
Fill out an online application form found at: http://asia.ubc.ca/2017-bc-japanese-speechcontest/
2-1. Speech draft
Submit via email a file of the applicant’s typed speech draft: font size 12 pt
2-2. Audio recording of the speech (minimum length: one minute)
Submit via email an audio file in MP3 format or a format that is playable on a CD player.
Please
ZIP your audio file if it exceeds 3MB.
Email address: programs@vc.mofa.go.jp
On the speech draft and its recording, indicate clearly
the applicant’s name and division and category of entry.
NOTE:
The copyright of the speech and speech recording submitted will remain
with the Japanese Speech Contest Organizing Committee.
SCREENING
Application for entry is accepted until 5 pm, Monday, February 6, 2017.
The Organizing Committee will review all the applications and select qualified applicants to
proceed to the final contest. The selected applicants will be contacted by the Committee. The
list of final contestants will be posted on Monday, February 20, 2017 on the Consulate’s website
www.vancouver.ca.emb-japan.go.jp/en/culture/culture_speech.htm
NOTE: 1) The applicants not selected for the final contest will not be contacted.
2) Any category that fails to attract a sufficient number of successful contestants will
be cancelled.
3) The Organizing Committee reserves the right to make final decisions as to who
will proceed to the final contest and in which category they will compete.

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JUDGING CRITERIA
The major criteria are the speech’s (a) content, (b) language use, and (c) presentation. An
appropriate length and delivery from memorization are parts of presentation.
NOTE: 1) Reading the speech draft is subject to penalty. Placing the draft on the podium is
for very discrete reference only.
2) The speech length limit is to be adhered. Overtime will be subject to penalty.
Overly short speeches will be penalized as well.
3) Winners may not be declared if no contestants met the standard expected for the
category.
PRIZES!!
* A participation prize to all final contestants.
* Certificates and prizes to the top contestants in each category.
* Special prizes may be awarded at the discretion of the Organizing Committee.

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LUNCH BUDDIES
COME HAVE LUNCH
WITH THE
STUDENTS
IN THE
EXPLORATIONS PROGRAM!
WHEN: every Thursday
WHERE: Rm 229 @ 11:40
EVERYONE WELCOME!!
Are you interested in a career as a teacher, social worker, occupational or physiotherapist,
speech and language, social work, medicine, etc.? If yes, then you may be interested in
Lunch Buddies. Once a week, students (grade 8-12) will meet to have lunch and socialize
with the Special Ed students in the Explorations Program. This is a wonderful opportunity
to connect with some wonderful students and gain experience that may be helpful in
future career endeavors.

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