Good Morning GFESS Students and Families:
I wanted to take this opportunity to share some news: We are one of three DSBN secondary schools taking part in a new entry and exit process. We're joined by St. Catharines Collegiate and Port Colborne High School.
DSBN prioritizes safe learning spaces for all staff and students. As you are likely aware, all DSBN elementary schools have their doors locked all day. As DSBN looks to move in this direction for all secondary schools, taking part in this pilot project is a first step.
What is the process and when does it start?
- The process begins on Monday, May 6, 2024.
- The school doors will be unlocked to start each morning to allow for our 1,100 students and 100 staff to enter the building.
- At 8:20 a.m. (10 minutes after Period One starts) to the end of the school day, all entrances into the school will be locked.
- Similar to elementary schools, there is a buzzer installed at the front main doors entering into the Atrium (facing Garrison Road).
- If a student, guardian, or visitor arrives to GFESS after the school doors are locked, they will be able to use the buzzer and a staff member will let them in.
- School doors at both ends of the Atrium will re-open after the final bell at 2:10 p.m. This would be the large set of doors facing Garrison Road, as well as the large set of doors facing the back parking lot.
What happens over lunch?
- During lunch, the school doors at both ends of the Atrium will be open so students can easily choose where they would like to spend their lunch break.
- At 12:10 p.m. (10 minutes after lunch break) these doors will be locked until 2:10 p.m.
If you have any questions, suggestions, or feedback about this new pilot process, please do not hesitate to contact me here at the school via email or phone (905-991-1132 x61801).
Have a great Monday.
Fred Louws, GFESS Principal