School Council

Date: Monday, October 6, 2025
Location: Thomas A. Blakelock HS (in person)
Chair: (Acting) Principal Jacquie Pece
Minute Taker: Art Hilson (Teacher)
Time Called to Order: Noted as opened; 7:05 pm

1) Attendance

Parents/Guardians: Deina Warren, Sarah Vidic, Jerry Vidic, Denise Mueller
Staff: Jacquie Pece (Acting Principal), Art Hilson (Teacher, Community Pathways Program)

2) Introductions & Opening Remarks (Acting Principal — J. Pece)

• Welcomed attendees; shared background (retired principal supporting schools as needed).
• Emphasized a student-centred, restorative approach to conflict resolution and culture-building.
• Noted strong school climate at Blakelock and the inclusive impact of the Community Pathways Program (CPP).
• Staffing updates:

• • Principal John Stieva currently on medical leave; expected to return after Thanksgiving.

• School size/feel: enrollment a little over ~1,300; “right-sized” for connection and community.

3) Reports

3.1 Principal’s Report (J. Pece)

Facilities & Accessibility

• Major multi-year upgrades underway (labs, bathrooms, accessibility).
• Plan for a larger additional elevator and a ramped front entrance; ongoing work will continue over the next couple of years.
• Athletic field and track have seen significant investment; scoreboard/clock repair completed—electrical/breaker to be re-checked.

Finances & Student Engagement Fund

• Board allocations are enrollment-based; optional parent “student engagement” contributions support school-wide events (barbecues, guest speakers, assemblies) and may help with technology (e.g., library Chromebooks).

Programs & Academics

• iSTEM: strong cross-disciplinary, project-based learning; partnerships (e.g., McMaster/Waterloo).
• AP (Advanced Placement): exams proctored at Blakelock; discussion of more deliberate clustering and exam preparation beginning next school year (curriculum remains Ontario-based; AP adds exam prep).
• Truth & Reconciliation: Orange Shirt Day participation; continued focus on Indigenous perspectives across curriculum.
  
  

Student Life & Events

• Spirit Week this week October 6 to 9 (e.g., Jersey Day, Twin Day, School Colours/Spirit Day).
• “Homecoming-style” football game at 11:30 a.m.; lunchtime barbecue; teachers may bring classes for part of the game.
• Semi-Formal October 9 6:30 to 9:30 pm OE Banquet Hall (no dinner; keep price accessible ~$23). Ticket cap ~400; ~350 sold; strict guest policy; police present; strong safety/behaviour expectations.

Well-Being, Safety & Vaping

• Vaping trend currently down at Blakelock; vigilance remains (washrooms monitored).
• Progressive discipline used; first step often a warning and call home; searches possible if needed.
• Harm-reduction message: do not normalize substance use at school events.

Assessment Integrity (Plagiarism & AI)

• Use of Turnitin and teacher judgment for integrity issues; ChatGPT/AI misuse flagged where detected.
• Progressive discipline focuses on skill-building (redoing work, staged in-class tasks) rather than punitive zeros; emphasis on observation/conversation/product to verify learning.

Upcoming

• PD Day (Friday October 10): Prevention and intervention strategies for bullying; ongoing anti-racism work.
• Grade 8 Information Night: Late November (TBD)—final date to be posted on the website/weekly update.

3.2 Community Pathways Program (CPP) — Brief Note (A. Hilson)

• CPP is well integrated in school life and community experiences; promotes acceptance, inclusion, and friendships across programs.

3.3 Student Council

• No reps in attendance (Spirit Week prep). Principal relayed updates (see Student Life above).

4) School Council Formation/Elections

• Overview of roles provided (Chair/Co-Chairs, Secretary, Treasurer; general members).
• Secretary: Art Hilson.
• Co-Chairs (Acclaimed): Sarah Vidic, Deina Warren, Denise Mueller.

• • Motion not required due to acclamation; council accepted the slate.

5) Discussion & Q&A

• How can the Parent Council help?
• Be a sounding board for school communications; bring community questions forward.
• Support student-led initiatives and volunteer at board-level PIC events as interested.
• Consider guest speakers for parent learning nights where there is demonstrated interest.
• Grade 8 Info Night date?

  • To be confirmed and posted; aim is late November.

• Robotics Club interest:

  • Significant resource and staffing needs (tech/manufacturing/engineering teachers + sponsorship). Mr. Stieva to explore feasibility with staff.
    
    

6) Action Items

7) Motions

• Formation of School Council for 2025–26 acknowledged; Co-Chairs acclaimed (Vidic/Warren/Mueller).
• No financial motions this meeting.
  
  

8) Announcements & Key Dates

• PD Day: Friday October 10, 2025 (focus on bullying prevention/intervention; anti-racism).
• Semi-Formal: ; ticket cap ~400; ~350 sold (strict guest policy).
• Next Meeting: TBD — to be shared via weekly update and school website.

9) Adjournment

Meeting adjourned.  8:43 pm