From the Desk of Principal Stieva...

October 17, 2025

This week was a shorter calendar week but was still packed with lots of activities, sports, events and learning! We had a grade 11 trip to the Toronto Zoo, a grade 10 Career Coach Event, an ESL/Newcomer Parent Information Session and an amazing turnout for our Parent/Guardian and Teacher Interview evening last night.

In sports many of our teams represented Blakelock with passion, enthusiasm and grace; Jr.Girls Volleyball, Jr.Boys Volleyball, Sr.Girls Basketball, Sr.Boys Volleyball, Jr.Girls Basketball, Varsity Boys Football, and both Golf and Tennis Teams were out on the fields and courts giving it their all to represent T.A.Blakelock in the world of sport.

Hopefully you will all have a restful week and come back ready to embrace all the exciting things on the calendar for next week!

Important Student Information Verification Forms
An email was sent on September 19th requesting that parents/guardians complete a google form to update/verify the Student Information Verification Form. A link (requiring the student’s OEN password) was provided in the email for you to view and reference the current information that we have on file. Please check all the information and complete the google form as soon as possible. It is really important that we have the correct information for your student in our records.

Upcoming OSSLT
The OSSLT test will take place November 25th and 26th. This is a graduation requirement and must be completed before students can earn their OSSD. Grade 10 students currently taking English will write it with their classes. This does not apply to the ISTEM cohort, who will be taking the test in the Spring. Students with Grade 10 English in second semester will also write in the Spring. All other eligible students for this semester will be sent details regarding the time and location of the test closer to the date. If your student has a conflict, please ask them to reach out to their English teacher or Ms.Zuberi. A preparatory course will run at lunch on Tuesdays and Thursdays beginning on October 28th and ending the week of November 18th. These sessions are open to any student who would like extra help in preparing for the test. There will be an information session for students at lunch, to provide more details regarding these classes. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Ms. Zuberi zuberihi@hdsb.ca, or Ms. St. Onge stongek@hdsb.ca

The HDSB Parent Involvement Committee (PIC) Conference
Parents/guardians and community members are invited to attend the upcoming Parent Involvement Committee Conference on Saturday, Nov. 15, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Elsie MacGill Secondary School in Milton. The theme for this year’s event is Embrace. Engage. Celebrate: Building Welcoming Communities Together. This free event will feature informative workshops, community partners and displays and a keynote address by Pardeep Nagra, Human Rights & Equity Advisor at the HDSB. Lunch will be provided and child minding is available at no cost for Kindergarten-age children up to 12 years of age. Learn more and register by Friday, Oct. 31: https://tinyurl.com/az3tmdx6 

Celebrating Excellence in Learning, Engagement and Achievement
This will be a virtual event on Monday, Oct. 27 from 6 - 7 p.m. with the livestream linked on the HDSB website (hdsb.ca). Registration is not required. Celebrating Excellence in Learning, Engagement and Achievement showcases how the HDSB delivers a fulsome education experience by creating vibrant learning environments where students are inspired and supported to thrive in their pursuit of academic excellence. This session will explore how the HDSB prioritizes strong foundational and core learning that equips students for success both in the classroom and beyond, while developing transferable skills and providing opportunities for students to pursue individual interests and pathways. Those interested in attending the event are invited to submit a question to the panel before the session through this Google Form.

Coyote Awareness
The Municipal Enforcement Services Department with the Town of Oakville is sharing the following information to help raise awareness about coyotes and promote safe practices in school communities. Please check out the  Winter Coyote Fact Sheet. This resource provides important information on how families can reduce coyote encounters and help keep our wildlife safe. Also please remember:

• Never feed wildlife – this is a leading cause of human-wildlife conflict.
• Dispose of all garbage properly, including organic waste, in receptacles with secure lids.
• Keep school yards clean and ensure outdoor bins are fully enclosed to help deter wildlife.

For quick tips and more information, please visit the Coyotes page on oakville.ca or watch this short video.

Messaging from Guidance

Take Our Kids To Work Day
The Halton District School Board and Blakelock are proud to be involved in Take Our Kids to Work Day on November 5, 2025. Grade 9 students will go to work with a parent, relative, or other trusted adult. Students who are unable to accompany a parent, relative, family friend to their workplace will be supported in finding a placement, where possible. Virtual placements are also an option with family approval. Please ensure that the Take Our Kids to Work Day Permission Form is signed and returned to your students period one teacher by October 22.  Electronic copies of the permission form can be found on the school website at www.tab.hdsb.ca. Please do not hesitate to contact the school guidance office if you have any questions.

The Global Post-Secondary Fair
The Global Post-Secondary Fair will take place on October 21 at Iroquois Ridge High School. Learn about schools in the U.S, U.K and Europe, how to maximize the application process to all universities, write winning essays, access scholarships/financial aid and so much more. Visit the Oct 21/25 Global Post-Secondary Event Flyer for more information and to register for the event.

Post Secondary Representative Visits
Below is a list of Post Secondary Rep Visits to Blakelock.  All visits are held in the cafeteria at lunch.  

OUAC and Ontario Colleges Resources
The Ontario University Application Centre has put together this YouTube video to guide students through setting up their application/profile.  Ontario Colleges has a similar video which can be found here.

Scholarships
Guidance has started to update our LIVE 2025-26 TAB Scholarship document! Students may also receive specific emails regarding scholarships throughout the school year.  Please check your email often!   Often these opportunities will have specific deadlines and eligibility criteria. 

Guidance Appointment Booking
Students were sent their Guidance Counsellor’s Appointment Booking links last week.  They are available here as well.

October 10, 2025

What a fantastic Spirit Week we had!!  Students and staff participated in the daily themes which were a hit. We won the homecoming “pink” football game 35 - 20, and we raised $300 for Breast Cancer Awareness by running a concession stand!! The game started at 11:30am during lunch break and some classes came out to the field during period 4 to see the last half of the game. We are so proud of our Varsity Boys Football Team!

We capped off the week with an outstanding Fall Semi-Formal Dance!!  Students were so well behaved and appreciative of the Student Council for organizing this event for them. The police officers that were present, said that it was so great to see such a wholesome event with happy, polite teenagers. Way to go Tigers!!! 

• 375 students partying in the right spirit.
• Looking good and busting a move on the dance floor (There may be a video of me out there…just saying).
• Taking crazy pictures in the photo booth
• Having fun with friends before the long weekend
• Zero student issues…..PRICELESS!!!!   

Thank you to the staff supervisors, we cannot run these types of events without you!!  And thank you to all parents for supporting us in our effort to run a successful event!!

Alas, my time here at Blakelock has come to an end. Today is my last day, and you will all be pleased to know that Mr. John Stieva will be back at the helm on Tuesday. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with students, staff and parents in such a wonderful school community.  I wish you all the best for the remainder of the school year. You may see me again in the halls from time to time as needed.

Have a terrific Thanksgiving Weekend with family and friends.  Enjoy the time together!

Take care,

Jacquie Pece
Acting Principal


Parent/Teacher Interviews 
We will be holding Parent-Teacher Interviews on Thursday, October 16 from 7:00-8:00 pm. An informal meet and greet with staff will take place between 6:00–7:00 p.m.  Formal interview appointments will be held from 7:00–8:00 p.m. An email was sent home yesterday with instructions for booking formal interviews with your students individual teachers. Definitely please join us for at least the informal portion to chat briefly and meet all your students teachers.

Important Student Information Verification Forms
An email was sent on September 19th requesting that parents/guardians complete a google form to update/verify the Student Information Verification Forms. A link (requiring the student’s OEN password) was provided in the email for you to view and reference the current information that we have on file. Please check all the information and complete the google form as soon as possible. It is really important that we have the correct information for your student on file. Please call the office if you have questions about this.

TAB First-Year Question/Info Booth!

Hey Seniors! 

• Do you have questions about the university application process?
• Are you wondering what it’s ACTUALLY like to be a university student at different schools here in Ontario? 
• Are you curious what TAB graduates WISH they had known and done back when THEY were in grade 12?

Well you’re in luck! Thursday, October 16, @ lunch, recent TAB Graduates from various schools will be returning to offer their tips, tricks and experiences from back when they were in your shoes, through their first months actually starting university.
Don’t miss out! Stop by the booth, ask your questions, and gain some first-year insight.

March Break Trip to Italy
A letter went home earlier today with some information about an exciting opportunity for your student to participate in a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience with their peers to Italy in March 2026. Students will be spending March Break exploring the incredible cities of Florence, Rome, Venice and more! There will be a virtual information meeting on October 15th at 6:00pm. Please check the email for the link you will need to register at least one parent/guardian to attend for all the information about this amazing adventure your student won’t want to miss!

Messaging from Guidance

Take Our Kids To Work Day
The Halton District School Board and Blakelock are proud to be involved in Take Our Kids to Work Day on November 5, 2025. Grade 9 students will go to work with a parent, relative, or other trusted adult. Students who are unable to accompany a parent, relative, family friend to their workplace will be supported in finding a placement, where possible. Virtual placements are also an option with family approval. Please ensure that the Take Our Kids to Work Day Permission Form is signed and returned to your students period one teacher by October 22.  Electronic copies of the permission form can be found on the school website at www.tab.hdsb.ca. Please do not hesitate to contact the school guidance office if you have any questions.

Scholarships
Guidance has started to update our LIVE 2025-26 TAB Scholarship document! Students may also receive specific emails regarding scholarships throughout the school year.  Please check your email often!   Often these opportunities will have specific deadlines and eligibility criteria. 

Guidance Appointment Booking
Students were sent their Guidance Counsellor’s Appointment Booking links last week.  They are available here as well.
If you have any concerns or issues and wish to contact a teacher please call the school and we can give you their email 905-827-1158. You may also contact one of the Administrators: Vice-Principal Kevin McConvey, mcconveyk@hdsb.ca, responsible for students whose last name begins with A-L or Vice-Principal Kathleen St.Onge, stongek@hdsb.ca, responsible for students last name M-Z and Principal John Stieva, stievaj@hdsb.ca, responsible for Gr.12 students.

October 3, 2025

I cannot believe how fast September went. The great weather has certainly contributed to student enjoyment of sports, school events, and field trips this week. Students enjoyed a fantastic music trip, “Band Camp”, at The Circle Square Ranch, as well as the Outdoor Education class's camping and rafting overnight trip to 5 Oaks Campground. Both field trips were a great success and the students really seemed to enjoy themselves!  

5th Week Progress Reports will be emailed to parents next week. We are here to help, so if you have concerns…please contact the classroom teacher for more information or strategies. They can always seek out more support for your child as needed. 

Parent/guardian and Teacher Interviews will be held on Thursday, Oct.16th this year (Save the date!). There will be an informal “meet the teacher” hour for quick updates from teachers and then an hour for more formal 10 minute interviews. The formal interview time is intended for parents/guardians to discuss concerns with their child’s teacher beyond just, “How are they doing in class?” type conversations.  More information on this night will be provided later.

Next week is Spirit Week!!! Check out the student council post @tabtigers on instagram for details about what to wear each day! Next Friday is a P.D. day - no classes. The following Monday is Thanksgiving, so there will be a nice four day weekend for students.  

Enjoy the weekend.

Take care
Jacquie Pece
Acting Principal

This coming Thursday October 9th is our Homecoming Semi-Formal, please make sure that students have their tickets purchased on school cash online and permission forms turned into the office as soon as possible! Students will need their student cards or some other photo i.d to get into the dance.

We’re excited to announce that our school website has a new look and has been refreshed with a modern design, simplified and intuitive navigation, improved organization of content and a focus on clarity and accessibility. You will notice some new features and layouts as you explore. Our site will continue to be updated with new content and information throughout the school year to help families stay up-to-date with events, announcements and helpful resources. Thank you for your patience as we make changes and customize the site to suit the needs of our school community. We invite you to explore our refreshed website and all the resources available by visiting: tab.hdsb.ca

I-STEM Information Night
I-STEM is an innovative, regional program for secondary students (Grade 9-12) in Halton and surrounding areas. Students in this four-year program develop innovation skills related to engineering design and design thinking, entrepreneurial thinking skills and global competencies. No registration required.

Join us on Thursday, Oct. 23 for Information Sessions hosted in-person by each school offering the I-STEM program starting at 6:30 p.m.:

• Aldershot High School in Burlington (50 Fairwood Place West, Burlington, ON L7T 1E5)
• Elsie MacGill Secondary School in Milton (1410 Bronte St. S, Milton, ON L9E 1B9)
• T.A. Blakelock High School in Oakville (1160 Rebecca St, Oakville, ON L6L 1Y9)

Student Senate
An email went out this past week explaining the process for anyone interested in applying for the 2025/2026 HDSB Student Senate. The Student Senate provides a unified platform for students from across the HDSB to unite together to discuss issues that lead to change at the board level. TAB will be choosing two students to represent the school on the senate board. Interested students are asked to email their application in the next week. Responses can be in written form or can be a video; whichever works best for the applicant. Please submit all responses directly to our acting Principal, Jacquie Pece, at pecej@hdsb.ca by October 8th, 2025.

School Council
Just a reminder to Parents and Guardians who are looking to stay informed and get more involved in the school that our first School Council meeting will be held on Monday October 6th in the library. At our first meeting we will need to elect a Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer. If you are interested in being nominated for one or more of those positions please email Ms.Pece at pecej@hdsb.ca. Even if you are not looking to serve on the Executive Council, come on out and share your ideas and meet some other parents and staff!

2nd Annual HDSB The Entrepreneur Within Conference is here! On Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025. The conference features a lineup of interactive, inspiring and action-focused workshops led by entrepreneurs who are shaping industries, building communities and breaking barriers. The conference will take place at the Queen Elizabeth Park Community Centre (2302 Bridge Road, Oakville) from 9:30 a.m-1:30 p.m. Students who are interested in attending can contact their school principal. Please note that attendees from each school are limited

Homestay Hosts Needed in Halton
Each year, the HDSB’s International Student Program (ISP) welcomes students into schools, and as a result, our programs benefit, our community benefits and local students create lifelong friendships and global connections. Canada Homestay Network (CHN) is currently looking for hosts in Halton for international students joining the HDSB in 2026. Hosting an international student is a unique and rewarding experience. You'll give a young learner a life-changing opportunity while creating lasting memories for your own family. As a host, you provide a private bedroom, three daily meals, access to WiFi and laundry and a welcoming, supportive and safe home. CHN offers full training, 24/7 support and a monthly stipend. 
CHN will be hosting a virtual information sessions for families interested in learning more about becoming homestay hosts:

• Monday, October 27 at 7:00 pm - Join virtually here! 

Families who are interested in becoming a homestay host can apply online through the CHN Host Portal: https://hostportal.chnonline.ca/apply  To learn more, visit whyihost.ca, email hostinfo@canadahomestaynetwork.ca or call 1-877-441-4443.

October 10th is World Mental Health Day - a day focused on raising awareness about mental health.  Just like physical health, learning about mental health, understanding it, and taking care of it is important. When we understand how to recognize mental health concerns and the impact stigma can have on our ability to ask for help, we are in a better position to support our children.

Learn more about mental health and stigma in these short videos: 
What is Mental Health? 
Understanding 

Messaging from Guidance

Grade 12 Post Secondary Presentations are now complete.  
For those who would like to review the information or were unable to attend, please see here. Grade 12 students were also sent emails regarding specific scholarships this week.  If students would like to be considered for a specific School Nomination for one of these opportunities, we urge them to complete the appropriate Google Form ASAP and pay close attention to the timelines indicated. Information is also available on the Scholarship document linked in the above presentation.  

Post Secondary Representative Visits
Below is a list of Post Secondary Rep Visits to Blakelock.  All visits are held in the cafeteria at lunch.  It is unfortunate that the HDSB Post Secondary event to be held at Sheridan College was cancelled.  This was beyond our control.  Students are urged to check in with the representatives that visit TAB in the coming weeks and also consider attending other University and College events this Fall (Fairs, Campus Tours).  This is also a great idea for Grade 10 and 11 students who are planning ahead!

Scholarships
Guidance has started to update our LIVE 2025-26 TAB Scholarship document! Students may also receive specific emails regarding scholarships throughout the school year.  Please check your email often!   Often these opportunities will have specific deadlines and eligibility criteria. 

Grade 12 Questionnaire
Grade 12 students have been asked to complete this Questionnaire by October 9, 2025.  

Guidance Appointment Booking
Students were sent their Guidance Counsellor’s Appointment Booking links last week.  They are available here as well.

If you have any concerns or issues and wish to contact a teacher please call the school and we can give you their email 905-827-1158. You may also contact one of the Administrators: Kevin McConvey mcconveyk@hdsb.ca, responsible for students whose last name begins with A-L or Kathleen St.Onge, stongek@hdsb.ca, responsible for students last name M-Z and Principal Jacquie Pece, pecej@hdsb.ca, responsible for Gr.12 students.

September 26, 2025

The school has been operating in full swing this week with league games in sports, clubs up and running, as well as the student lead Terry Fox Event yesterday... and the weather even cooperated!! Students were very respectful of their support for raising awareness and funds for cancer research. This event involved a student lead assembly, a walk/run in the community, as well as a BBQ and games on the back field over lunch. Period 2 teachers are still collecting "Toonies for Terry" next week and if anyone is interested in donating directly to the website, here's the link https://schools.terryfox.ca/105326. Our donation total will be revealed later once it has been completely counted!!  A huge thank you to the grade 12 Leadership class for all their hard work organing the whole event

We are approaching the 5th week of school and teachers will begin to complete reports for students.  All Grade 9 students will receive a progress report and only students in Grade 10-12 that are achieving grades around 60% or lower will receive reports. These reports come out the first week of October (More on this later). If your child is in need of assistance in any of their subjects please encourage them to talk to their classroom teachers, attend a Math, Science, or English clinic at lunch, or ask for help through the resource support room and Guidance. We believe in being proactive in our support of students with early intervention strategies to ensure their success. Let’s find out what is getting in the way and then problem-solve together. 

I hope to see many of you at our Friday Night Football game under the lights at Nelson Stadium tonight!!  There was a lot of school spirit today with people dressing in green and black around the school!  It is going to be a beautiful night!

LET’S GO TIGERS, LET’S GO!!  (Sing it with me!)

Jacquie Pece
Acting Principal

An email was sent last week  requesting that parents/guardians complete a google form to update/verify the Student Information Verification Form. A link (requiring the student’s OEN password) was provided in the email for you to view and reference the current information that we have on file. Please check all the information and complete the google form as soon as possible. It is vitally important that we have current contact information on file for all TAB students

The 2024/2025 Yearbooks have arrived! If you purchased a yearbook last year please ask your student to go to the office before or after school or at lunch and pick it up. Any 2025 graduates from last year who purchased a yearbook can stop into the main office Monday to Friday between 7:30am-3:30pm and pick one up. (Also there are still some diplomas here so if you haven’t picked yours up yet, it’s a great time to do that as well!)

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day 

• The HDSB observance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30th aligns with the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation offerings.
• Students have been engaged in learning leading up to September 30th - on which all Staff and Students are invited to wear an Orange Shirt.
  
  

Messaging from Guidance
Thank you to the parents that came out last night for our Post Secondary Event last night in the Studio Theatre.  Guidance will meet with Grade 12 students as well next Monday and Wednesday and provide the same presentation and address any questions.  We will share our presentation in next week’s Principal’s Message.  

In the meantime, here is a link to a timeline of events this year.  Please note that the Ontario University Fair is happening this weekend in the city!

Military Coop
Information regarding the 4 credit Military Coop can be found here.  This program runs in Semester 2.  

Virtual Information Sessions will be held for the Military Coop on the following dates.  Interested students/families are urged to attend:  

• 30 Sep 25 | 1900–2000 – High School Co-Op Information Session | Meeting-Join | Microsoft Teams
• 1 Oct 25 | 1300–1400 – High School Co-Op Information Session | Meeting-Join | Microsoft Teams
• 7 Oct 25 | 1900–2000 – High School Co-Op Information Session | Meeting-Join | Microsoft Teams
• 8 Oct 25 | 1300–1400 – High School Co-Op Information Session | Meeting-Join | Microsoft Teams

International Student Exchange Opportunity to Ireland and France (FLYER)
Canada International Student Placement Inc. (CISPI) is accepting applications for its 2025-2026 exchange programs. Seven secondary students are invited to apply for the Irish exchange taking place in January and March 2026. Ontario students will be matched with an Irish student and host the Irish student here in January. Then Ontario students will travel to Ireland for the month of March and will be in Ireland for St. Patrick’s Day. 

Programs in France include group reciprocal exchange opportunities where our students are matched with French students and reciprocate stays in the offshore schools and homes in the Spring of 2026.  

Please see flyer for more information and contact details: Spring 2026 reciprocal.pdf

The Halton District School Board partners with several organizations to support international student exchanges. These programs provide students with valuable cultural and educational experiences in Canada and abroad. Please see HDSB Exchange Programs for more information.

Post Secondary Representative Visits
Below is a list of Post Secondary Rep Visits to Blakelock.  All visits are held in the cafeteria at lunch.  

It is unfortunate that the HDSB Post Secondary event to be held at Sheridan College was cancelled.  This was beyond our control.  Students are urged to check in with the representatives that visit TAB in the coming weeks and also consider attending other University and College events this Fall (Fairs, Campus Tours).  This is also a great idea for Grade 10 and 11 students who are planning ahead!

University of Waterloo - Indigenous Admissions 2026
Did you know that the University of Waterloo offers more than 15 bursaries and scholarships ranging from $1500 to $40000 for incoming First Nations, Inuit and Metis Students?

More info and more supports are available at uwaterloo.ca/future/indigenous

Scholarships
Guidance has started to update our LIVE 2025-26 TAB Scholarship document! Students may also receive specific emails regarding scholarships throughout the school year.  Please check your email often!  Often these opportunities will have specific deadlines and eligibility criteria. 

From time to time we will highlight some opportunities in our Principal’s weekly message.  Please see below: 

• The Loran Scholar

Accepting applications from now until Thurs, Oct. 16, 2025, at noon ET. 

Students may now access the online application system at apply.loranscholar.ca. They can also view the sample application form.

Grade 12 Questionnaire
Grade 12 students have been asked to complete this Questionnaire by October 9, 2025.  

Guidance Appointment Booking
Students were sent their Guidance Counsellor’s Appointment Booking links last week.  They are available here as well.

If you have any concerns or issues and wish to contact a teacher please call the school and we can give you their email 905-827-1158. You may also contact one of the Administrators: Kevin McConvey mcconveyk@hdsb.ca, responsible for students whose last name begins with A-L or Kathleen St.Onge, stongek@hdsb.ca, responsible for students last name M-Z and Principal Jacquie Pece, pecej@hdsb.ca, responsible for Gr.12 students.

September 19, 2025

Good afternoon to the T.A. Blakelock Tiger community, 

The T.A. Blakelock Club Fair took place this past Thursday and it was a great opportunity for students to learn more about the plethora of ways that students can get involved at the school. We have a lot of brand new clubs starting this year so students have many new activities to try and lots of different ways to meet new people no matter where their interests lie.  Students are encouraged to connect with their teachers should they have any questions about clubs at TAB.

An email was sent today at 4:30pm requesting that parents/guardians complete a google form to update/verify the Student Information Verification Form. A link (requiring the student’s OEN password) is provided in the email for you to view and reference the current information that we have on file. Please check all the information and complete the google form at your earliest convenience by September 30.

The 2024/2025 yearbooks have arrived! If you purchased a yearbook last year, we will be handing them out at lunch starting Monday in the South 205 classroom. All graduates from last year who purchased a yearbook can pick them up at the main office.

Next week we have a major event planned for Thursday September 25th which is the Terry Fox Run and Walk. Students will have the opportunity to run or walk within the community. This year we will not be asking you to complete a permission form again. Instead, we will assume that all students are allowed to participate unless you indicate otherwise by emailing me at pecej@hdsb.ca to inform us that your child is not allowed to leave school grounds. Please remind your child that they are representing the school in the community and we want to leave a positive impression with our neighbours.

**This is an important reminder to please complete the Start Up Forms 2025/2026 that were emailed to you on September 3rd and the Secondary Intramural Information Forms that were sent home in your student’s period 1 class. These are important forms that the school requires to have up-to-date emergency information for your student, and to give permission to participate in all the other school activities throughout the year.

We will be hosting a BBQ and some games during lunch after the walk/run is complete. Any proceeds will be donated to the Terry Fox Foundation.  If you would like to donate to help our fundraiser, please use this link:  https://schools.terryfox.ca/105326

This is a modified school schedule for that day: 

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day 

• The HDSB observance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30th aligns with the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation offerings.
• Students will be engaged in learning leading up to September 30th - on which the school will observe Orange Shirt Day. 
  
  

IMPORTANT UPDATE:  October 1 and 2 HDSB~Sheridan Post-Secondary Exploration Event
As you may know, Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU), the union representing full-time support staff at all Ontario colleges, began strike action on September 11.  We are writing to inform you that the annual Post-Secondary Pathways Exploration Event, scheduled to take place October 1-2 at Sheridan College has had to be cancelled due to the province-wide strike impacting all Ontario colleges. 
We know this annual event is important for Grade 11 and 12 students and their families as they plan their post-secondary journey. We are exploring options to reschedule the event for a later time and will share further information as it becomes available. 
In the meantime, students and families are encouraged to attend upcoming virtual events on pathways exploration hosted by the Halton District School Board beginning in late September. Information about these opportunities to connect and learn virtually will be shared with families by the HDSB over the coming weeks. As always, your school’s Guidance department is available to answer any questions and to support students in planning their next steps after high school.

Thank you for your understanding.

Messaging from Guidance

Grade 12 Post Secondary Events
Guidance will be hosting a Grade 12 Parent/Guardian Post Secondary Evening on September 25, 2025 from 7:00 - 8:00 PM in the Studio Theatre.  We will also be presenting to our Grade 12 students in Period 4 the following week.  

Global Post Secondary Events
Iroquois Ridge High School will be hosting a Global Post Secondary Fair on the evening of October 21.  More info and registration can be found here.

Scholarships
Guidance has started to update our LIVE 2025-26 TAB Scholarship document! Students may also receive specific emails regarding scholarships throughout the school year.  Please check your email often!   Often these opportunities will have specific deadlines and eligibility criteria. 

From time to time we will highlight some opportunities in our Principal’s weekly message.  Please see below: 

• The Loran Scholar

Accepting applications from now until Thurs, Oct. 16, 2025, at noon ET. 

Students may now access the online application system at apply.loranscholar.ca. They can also view the sample application form.

Student Data Transfer for Ontario College & University Applications
Graduating students and their parents/guardians were sent an important email on September 18 regarding the Opt Out process for students who do not want their data transferred to the Ontario Colleges Application System and/or the Ontario University Application Centre on October 1. We ask that students complete the Google Form, if applicable, by September 26th, 2025 at noon using their student HDSB email account.

Grade 12 Questionnaire
Grade 12 students have been asked to complete this Questionnaire by October 9, 2025.  

Guidance Appointment Booking
Students were sent their Guidance Counsellor’s Appointment Booking links last week.  They are available here as well.

September 12, 2025

Good afternoon to the T.A. Blakelock Tiger community,  

My name is Mrs.Jacquie Pece and I am a retired Halton principal that is currently helping out at Blakelock for the principal Mr.John Stieva. He is currently off work for the next little while. I am happy to be here and to assist students, staff and parents with the start up of a new school year. I was a teacher here back in the day so it feels like coming home! It has been great to walk the halls of Blakelock, meet students and staff and see all the new projects that have been completed, as well as the ones that are still under construction. The school looks amazing!  Everyone has been so nice and welcoming. What a great school vibe we have going on here!!

We have finished the second week of classes and all timetable changes have been completed, classes are balanced and students have settled in nicely. Fall sports and clubs are underway and we even had our first exhibition football game today on the field. Go Tigers!!!!  September 18th we will have a sports, clubs and activities fair to help motivate students to take that first step and join something that they are interested in and passionate about. We encourage all students to make the most of their high school career by getting involved!!

Have a great weekend all and enjoy this lovely weather!!
Principal Jacquie Pece


For students who are bussed to school and require further information about bus stops or schedule, please contact www.haltonbus.ca or call Halton Transportation at 1-888-803-8660.

With a new school year in full swing, Oakville Transit would like to update and remind students
of the services they could benefit from:

• Ride free with PRESTO: Youth ages 13 to 19 are eligible for free transit service by travelling with a PRESTO card. PRESTO cards are available at all Shoppers Drug Mart locations in Oakville, or students may choose to download a virtual PRESTO card from the Android and iOS app stores. Youth who do not have a valid PRESTO card will be asked to pay the fare.
• School Special Routes: Oakville Transit has adjusted service to accommodate the increase in youth ridership. This includes additional school specials at the end of the school day as well as some additional specials during the lunch hour. September school special schedules are available on the Oakville Transit website. 
• Safety Reminders: Riders are reminded to treat Oakville Transit staff and fellow customers with respect and courtesy. To ensure the safety of all, Oakville Transit will be removing any riders who act in an inappropriate, disrespectful or unsafe manner.

Just a reminder to any students who will be absent for more than 3 days please stop at the office in advance to pick up an Extended Absence Form to be filled out by the student, signed by parents and returned to the office for Vice-Principal approval BEFORE leaving for vacation or extended absence.

Last week families received the first of two yearly start up google forms. These forms are to authorize photo use, and participation in outdoor activities and walking excursions. Please read through them carefully and submit electronically no later than September 25th. In class, students have received a permission form to be returned to their homeroom teacher as soon as possible. This is an intramural form to participate in school activities. **The second start up google form is the verification form to verify and correct personal information including addresses, phone numbers and emails. This form will be communicated later in September so please watch your emails for this form! 

If you have any concerns or issues and wish to contact a teacher please call the school and we can give you their email 905-827-1158. You may also contact one of the Administrators: Kevin McConvey, mcconveyk@hdsb.ca, responsible for students whose last name begins with A-L or Kathleen St.Onge, stongek@hdsb.ca, responsible for students last name M-Z and Principal Jacquie Pece, pecej@hdsb.ca, responsible for Gr.12 students.

Messaging from Guidance
This year we have some new guidance counsellors available to assist your students. Please check the list for which counsellor is responsible for your student based on last name in alpha order:

• Amy Abbott  - Students with last names A - Br - abbotta@hdsb.ca
• Ross Sumner - Students with last names Bu- Ha - sumnerro@hdsb.ca
• Shu Yen Chen Allen - Students with last names He - M - chenallens@hdsb.ca
• Diana Svendsen - Students with last names N - Z - svendsend@hdsb.ca

Booking links and calendars for Guidance Counsellors will be available soon.  Stay tuned for next week’s message.

Community Involvement Opportunity

The Canadian Youth Climate Action Team (CYCAT) is the Canadian branch of a global youth-led climate awareness organization. They are excited to announce that their annual volunteer recruitment is now open. Volunteer positions are remote, relaxed, and only take around 1-2 hours per week!

Event at U of T
Sunday, October 26 | Study and Go Abroad / SchoolFinder Student Education Fair

• 1pm-5pm at Hart House at the University of Toronto.

• Students can explore universities, colleges, gap year options, and work / study abroad opportunities. Admission is free!

September 2, 2025

Here it is Tuesday September 2nd and we are looking forward to the first day of school for students tomorrow Wednesday September 3rd. Our grade 9 students will start their day at 8:15am and be involved in orientation activities led by our Link Crew students. Link Crew members have been making efforts to touch base with grade 9's in their groups. If you haven't heard from your Link Crew leader don't worry, we have a place for your student here and a volunteer in a Tiger Crew shirt will show them where to go once they arrive at school. 

All other students grades 10-12 will start school at 12:05pm and all students will attend all 4 classes in the afternoon for shortened periods. Please see the schedule shown below. Any grade 10-12 students arriving by bus in the morning will be expected to be in the library or cafeteria until the start of their period 1 class in the afternoon. 

Students in our Community Pathways Program (CPP), will follow the regular day schedule starting at 8:15am and will be dismissed at their regular time in the afternoon.

Student timetables were sent out by email this past Friday. If you did not receive one, please contact the Main Office as one can be provided for you there.

See you all tomorrow!