Mustang Memos

Good Afternoon families of McKenzie-Smith Bennett PS, 

T’was the night before the concert and all through the school, 

not a teacher was stirring, not even a Schneider? 

The students, excited with glee, 

Ready to share a beautiful symphony. 

Parents, families, and friends please join in, 

On the MSB Winter Concert, we present with a grin. 

Doors open at 6:00pm, details below, 

Just remember, we at MSB hope for no snow.

For more Concert information please see below. We hope to see you there. 

If you have any questions or concerns please reach out to Michelle Mendes - Vice Principal (mendesmi@hdsb.ca) or Jeff Chaisson - Principal (chaissonj@hdsb.ca). 

Repost: Winter Concert

Do you love the colour pink?  This is the story of a girl named Michelle who also loves the colour pink.  MSB is excited to present a fun winter concert on Thursday, December 04th, 2025.  All classes will be involved.  The concert will take place in the South Gym with doors opening to the public at 6:00pm.  The concert will begin at 6:30pm sharp.  We look forward to yet another fun concert. 

For those unable to attend the night performance, we will be offering a day performance as well.  This performance will begin at 2:00pm.  Doors will open to the public for this performance at 1:30pm.  Please do not push the buzzer for entry to the school.  We will have ushers come open the door.

Lunch Orders -- Session 2

Please see the optional programs running at MSB in the new year.  We call this session 2.  All orders must be made through school cash online: 

Pizza

• Twice the Deal Pizza will be delivered on Tuesdays for the 2nd break. Your order will be the same for the entire session. The price is $2 per slice for 12 weeks for a total of either $24.00 (1 slice) or $48.00 (2 slices) for the entire session.

• This is a fundraiser with proceeds going towards Digital Tools for the Library and Indoor Recess Bins.

• Session 2 is 12 weeks from Jan 6 to Mar 31, 2026

• Please record these lunch dates on your calendar:
  TUESDAYS: Jan 6, Jan 13, Jan 20, Jan 27, Feb 3, Feb 10, Feb 17, Feb 24, Mar 3, Mar 10, Mar 24 and Mar 31, 2026

Sub

• Mr Sub will be delivered on Thursdays for the 2nd break. The lunches include: one 6" sub, an apple juice and a bag of SunChips (regular Lay's chips will be substituted if there is a supply shortage). Your order will be the same for the entire session. The price is $7.25 per sub for 12 weeks for a total of $87.00 for the entire session.

• This is a fundraiser with proceeds going towards school jerseys for sporting events.

• Session 2 is 12 Weeks from Jan 8 to Apr 2, 2026.

• Please record these lunch dates on your calendar:
  THURSDAYS: Jan 8, Jan 15, Jan 22, Jan 29, Feb 5, Feb 12, Feb 19, Feb 26, Mar 5, Mar 12, Mar 26 and Apr 2, 2026

New Offering: Popcorn Days

Popcorn Day - Jan - Jun 2026

• MSB is offering From Farm to Table individual 23g Butter Salt Popcorn for sale

• Individual 23g bags are $2 each. They will be delivered (2) times per month for a total of 6 months

• 1 bag per day x Twice per month x 6 months x $2 = $24.00 total for this session from January 2026 to June 2026.

• This is a fundraiser with proceeds going towards the MSB Gr 6 & 8 Graduation Events.

• Please note these dates on your calendar:
  Jan 9 & 23, Feb 6 & 20, Mar 6 & 27, Apr 3 & 17, May 1 & 15 and Jun 12 & 24 (Wednesday), 2026

Unfortunately, no late orders will be accepted.  Also, please note that the food cannot be saved. 

PLEASE MAKE SURE THAT YOU RECEIVE A RECEIPT AND CHECK YOUR ORDER HISTORY TO ENSURE THAT YOUR ORDER WAS PUT THROUGH.

Ordering open online: FRIDAY Dec 05, 2025

Ordering closes online: MONDAY Dec 15, 2025

Cookie Orders -- Revised Dates

• Revised COOKIE Days for those who have already purchased cookies online from Sep to Jun 2026.

• Jan 30, Feb 27, Mar 13, Apr 10, May 29, Jun 17 (Wednesday), 2026

If you have any questions around special food orders please reach out to the Office. 

French Immersion (FI) registration for next school year

If you are considering placing your child into French Immersion (FI) programming next year please be aware that registration opened on December 1, 2025.

French Immersion Home Page (with registration)

Repost: Community Partner: School Screening Association (a not for profit organization) 

Please see the below optional opportunity for the MSB community:  

It’s Hearing and Vision Screening time!

Our clinic will be at your school McKenzie Smith-Bennett PS on: December 5th, 2025

Register your child and complete the payment through this Online Registration: 

                                                       https://form.jotform.com/253153369145256

Deadline for registration is Dec 3rd, at 9am and the duration at the school may be adjusted based on student participation.

Your child’s Hearing and Vision should be screened every year!

         A fee of $25.00 is collected to help offset the cost of bringing this clinic to your school.

Why Screening Matters:

• Growing children are very susceptible to middle ear problems and one of the best ways to prevent hearing loss is early detection of middle ear function issues.

• Vision issues are common in children, so early detection is crucial for their healthy development and academic success.

Our screening program helps identify hearing and vision concerns before they impact learning and social development, ensuring children get the support they need to thrive. As part of the program, we will refer any results that are considered outside the normal range to the parents for follow-up with their physician and/or optometrist.

For hearing concerns, we recommend bringing your referral to your physician, who can then refer you to an ENT specialist, which is covered by OHIP. Alternatively, you have the option to schedule an appointment with an Audiologist without needing a referral from your family physician. Please note that visits to an Audiologist may not be covered by OHIP, and you could incur a fee ranging from $75 to $150 or more.

Your child's hearing is not being monitored unless they're seeing an audiologist or an ENT specialist, making our screening program a valuable resource for your child's health.

While eye exams are covered by OHIP, our hearing clinic offers a basic vision screening for students participating in the hearing clinic.

For more information and to address all your questions and concerns, please visit our website at www.schoolscreeningassociation.ca.

Good Grades start with Good Hearing and Vision

Upcoming Dates

-Dec. 04 -- Winter Concert (information above)

-Dec. 05 -- Swim to Survive (grade 3 only)

-Dec. 05 -- Session 2 Hot Lunch purchasing will open up (pizza days, Mr. Sub, Popcorn Days) (school cash online)

-Dec. 05 -- School Screening Clinic for those who signed up

-Dec. 11 -- Robotics Competition (Radford’s Robotics Club)

-Dec. 12 -- Swim to survive (grade 3 only)

-Dec. 15 -- Session 2 Hot Lunch purchasing closes 

(pizza days, Mr. Sub, Popcorn Days)(school cash online)

-Dec. 16 -- Last day of Session 1 Pizza

-Dec. 18 -- Last day of Session 1 Mr. Sub

-Dec. 19 -- Cookie Day, Feel Good Friday

-Dec. 19 -- Last day of school before Winter Break (early dismissal 2:05pm)

-Jan. 05 -- School returns from Winter Break

  Good Afternoon families of McKenzie-Smith Bennett PS, 

First, we would like to take this chance to thank you all for your donations to Acton Food Share through our MSB scares hunger.  We were able to bring in 475lbs of food to donate to the food share.  Amazing!

Second, we would like to thank those community members who joined us for our Remembrance Day Service.  Our grade 6 hosts did a marvelous job of leading the ceremony.  Our students showed respect and kindness during the ceremony.  MSB will not forget those who served or are serving. 

Lastly, we would like to remind everyone  of a few resources for the upcoming winter season: 

-inclement weather procedure

-absent student reporting

If you have any questions or concerns please reach out to Michelle Mendes - Vice Principal (mendesmi@hdsb.ca) or Jeff Chaisson - Principal (chaissonj@hdsb.ca). 

REPOST: MSB Acton Parade Float

MSB will once again be entering the Acton Christmas Parade float contest.  The parade takes place Saturday, November 15th, 2025.  Students on the float or walking along the float will be notified and need to be at the school for 12:30 am. 

Thanks to the generous support of Cody’s Cows for the use of their wagon.  Thanks also to Mrs. Mashinter and her team for working their magic and creating such wonderful floats.  

REPOST: MSB Family Movie Night

MSB will host its first movie night of the year on Thursday, November 13th, 2025.  Doors will open at 6:00pm.  Pizza will be delivered to the school for 6:15pm for those who order. The movie will begin at 6:30pm sharp.  We will be showing the new Lilo and Stitch movie from Disney. 

If you just want to watch the movie and not order pizza and popcorn that is ok too. Bring a sleeping bag, snacks, cozy clothes and enjoy a night watching a great movie with friends.  See you there.    

REPOST: Student-Led Conferences

Please note that homeroom teachers will be creating a schedule for student-led conferences right before or after progress reports have been sent home on Monday, November 17th.  Please direct any questions to the homeroom teachers for timing.  

The purpose of these conferences is for your child to lead you through their achievements to this point.  We are proud of them and hope they are proud of themselves as well.  Teachers will support the direction of the conference and can set up a time for a future meeting if further discussion is needed. 

Upcoming Dates

-Nov. 13 -- Movie Night (see info above)

-Nov. 14 -- Swim to Survive (gr. 3’s only)

-Nov. 16-22 -- Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week

-Nov. 17 -- Progress Reports sent home

-Nov. 19 -- School Photo RETAKE day

-Nov. 21 -- Feel Good Friday, Cookie Day

Good Afternoon families of McKenzie-Smith Bennett PS, 

It was a heart breaking loss to the Dodgers but like us at MSB, the Blue Jays are resilient and will be back even stronger next year.  

Thank you to everyone who sent food in for our MSB Scares Hunger Food Drive.  The generosity of our community is always heartwarming and appreciated. Acton Food Share will be picking up all the donations tomorrow and they are thrilled that we continue to support them. Be proud!  

We will be paying our respects to those who served and are serving through our Remembrance Day service.  Please see the details further down in this message.  

If you have any questions or concerns please reach out to Michelle Mendes - Vice Principal (mendesmi@hdsb.ca) or Jeff Chaisson - Principal (chaissonj@hdsb.ca). 

Remembrance Day Service at MSB

MSB will host a Remembrance Day service in our South Gym on Tuesday, November 11th, 2025.  We are inviting our community to this service.  We ask that anyone wishing to attend, arrive at MSB between 9:45am-10:00am.  Please enter through the front doors.

MSB Acton Parade Float

MSB will once again be entering the Acton Christmas Parade float contest.  The parade takes place Saturday, November 15th, 2025.  Students will need to be at the school for 12:30 am. 

Thanks to the generous support of Cody’s Cows for the use of their wagon.  Thanks also to Mrs. Mashinter and her team for working their magic and creating such wonderful floats.  

Below, we are sharing a form for those families interested in having their student take part in the parade with us. Students will either be on the float or walking ahead of the float. This will be based on a first come first served basis as we have limited space.  Please print the below permission form and send back to school ASAP: 

(attachment for student permission)

MSB Spirit Wear

Spirit wear has been sent home with all students as of Monday, November 03.

Grade 6 and 8 Graduation wear is not ready just yet.  More to come in the near future.

MSB Family Movie Night

MSB will host its first movie night of the year on Thursday, November 13th, 2025.  Families will be able to order a pizza and popcorn through school cash online found below:

School Cash Online

Doors will open at 6:00pm.  Pizza will be delivered to the school for 6:15pm for those who order. The movie will begin at 6:30pm sharp.  We will be showing the new Lilo and Stitch movie from Disney. 

If you just want to watch the movie and not order pizza and popcorn that is ok too. Bring a sleeping bag, snacks, cozy clothes and enjoy a night watching a great movie with friends.  See you there.    

Student-Led Conferences

Please note that homeroom teachers will be creating a schedule for student-led conferences right before or after progress reports have been sent home on Monday, November 17th.  Please direct any questions to the homeroom teachers for timing.  The purpose of these conferences is for your child to lead you through their achievements to this point.  We are proud of them and hope they are proud of themselves as well.  Teachers will support the direction of the conference and can set up a time if further discussion is needed. 

Upcoming Dates

-Nov. 02-08 -- Treaties Recognition Week

-Nov. 14 -- Swim to Survive (gr. 3’s only)

-Nov. 17 -- Progress Reports sent home

-Nov. 19 -- School Photo RETAKE day

-Nov. 20 -- MSB Movie Night (see details above)

Good Afternoon families of McKenzie-Smith Bennett PS, 

Another busy week done at MSB. I would like to take this opportunity to introduce our amazing and active school council executive for the 2025-26 school year. Please see below: 

Chair: Jessica Manes

Secretary: Sarah Brophy-Platts

HHSCC and PIC Reps: Lesley MacKenzie and Sarah Nederend

We thank them, and all school council members, for their work in creating more opportunities for our school community.

THANK YOU!  Thank you to some of our local community partners who also help make our school community so great: 

-Acton Home Hardware: For their support of our music program

-Sarah Brophy-Platts (Coldwell Banker Escarpment): For their donation of pumpkins

-70 Below: For their donations of Jay’s watch party tickets

-Cody’s Cows: For their continued support of our Acton Christmas Parade Float

-Macmillans: For their generous support during fundraising efforts

-Guelph Storm: For their donations of tickets and adopting our school for player visits

If you have a chance to support any of these local businesses please do so knowing they are actively supporting our MSB community.   

If you have any questions or concerns please reach out to Michelle Mendes - Vice Principal (mendesmi@hdsb.ca) or Jeff Chaisson - Principal (chaissonj@hdsb.ca). 

MSB Spirit Wear

Spirit wear has arrived for those who ordered.  It will be sent home with students on FRIDAY, October 31st, 2025.  If you would prefer to pick up your order, you can do so on the same day at the Office.  Please come to the Office to collect or it will be sent home. 

Grade 6 and 8 Graduation wear is not ready just yet.  More to come in future messages.  

Remembrance Day Request

This Remembrance Day, we want to create a special tribute to the brave men and women from our MSB families who have served, or are currently serving, in the military around the world. We invite you to help us honour them by submitting a picture of your family member. Please include:

• The service member's name

• The service member's relationship to your child (e.g., Cpt. Smith is Jeff’s great uncle who served for the British Navy)

• Your child’s name and class

Please send your pictures to Mrs. Mendes (mendesmi@hdsb.ca) by Friday, November 7th. It is our privilege to recognize their service and sacrifice in our community!

REPOST: MSB Scares Hunger (food collection)

Beginning Tuesday, October 14, 2025, MSB will be collecting food items for the Acton Food Bank. We know there is a strong need to support our local community and we are hoping during this time MSB can help out. Non-perishable food items will be accepted by all homeroom classrooms until Monday, November 03, 2025.  Thank you for considering supporting our community. 

REPOST: Halloween at MSB

Spooky things are happening this month at MSB. We will have some fun events planned including a costume parade and our third annual Pumpkin Patch (pumpkin carving contest). More messaging regarding these events is further down in this email, however please note the below message from the Office in regards to attire: 

There is no expectation for your child to dress up in a costume. If your child chooses to dress in a costume, please help ensure their costume supports the positive and welcoming environment we strive for at our school.

Costume Guidelines for School:

● Costumes should be fun and respectful

● Costumes that mimic the traditional attire of an ethnic, religious, racial or

gender group/identity are not appropriate.

● Costumes that are overly frightening or intended to incite fear are not

appropriate.

● Replica weapons and masks should not be brought to school.

Not everyone dresses up in a costume. Many staff and students choose to wear Orange and Black on this day or dress in whatever they feel most comfortable in. Thank you for your support in keeping our school a safe and welcoming place for all. 

REPOST: Costume Parade

Parents are invited to come to our annual costume parade on Friday, October 31st.  The parade will begin at 9:30am.  We ask that all parents use only the front, main doors to enter the school.  

REPOST: Pumpkin Patch

MSB will host its third annual Pumpkin Patch on Friday, October 31st. Students, and their families, can carve a pumpkin and bring it to school (SOUTH GYM) on this day to show off their carving skill. We will have four categories for students to enter their pumpkins: 

• Scariest Pumpkin

• Funniest Pumpkin

• Most Creative Pumpkin

• Most MSB Pumpkin  

Students will have the opportunity to vote as a class on which pumpkin from each category they feel is the top of the class. 

Pumpkins can be dropped off the morning of Friday, October 31st between 8:15am-9:15am and can be picked up that night between 3:35pm-4:15pm.  Any pumpkins which are not picked up will be disposed of. 

Upcoming Dates

-Oct. 31 -- Halloween Events @ MSB (see above for carving contest details and costume parade details)

-Nov. 02-08 -- Treaties Recognition Week

-14 -- Swim to Survive (gr. 3’s only)

-Nov. 17 -- Progress Reports sent home

-Nov. 19 -- School Photo RETAKE day

Good Afternoon families of McKenzie-Smith Bennett PS, 

Thank you to the amazing support for Acton Food Share. Please be reminded that we are still collecting food items for our ‘We Scare Hunger Campaign’ with every item going directly to support our local community Food Share. The items most needed are: 

Canned Vegetables

Canned Fruit

Canned Meat (chicken, ham, sandwich meat)

Hamburger Helper

Sidekicks

Cereal

Children's snacks

Instant Noodles

Large Soup

Stew 

If you have any questions or concerns please reach out to Michelle Mendes - Vice Principal (mendesmi@hdsb.ca) or Jeff Chaisson - Principal (chaissonj@hdsb.ca). 

Morning Student Drop Off

Please be reminded that we want to ensure the safety of all our students in the morning.  To do this during morning drop off we are asking that parents who need to exit their car to assist their children out of the car, park along the side of the road and not enter the quick drop off area known as “Kiss and Ride”.  We have noted that some parents are getting out of their car to open doors or unbuckle seat belts and this slows down the flow of traffic and backs us up onto the road.

Also, if you are in the “Kiss and Ride” line, we ask that you do not attempt to pass cars in front of you as there are many walkers and this presents a hazard.  

Thank you for continuing to keep MSB as safe as can be

. 

HDSB Kindergarten Registration - September 2026

Do you have a child starting school in September 2026? Registration is underway for Kindergarten in the HDSB! 

The HDSB’s Kindergarten program provides children with a strong foundation for lifelong learning and success by developing curiosity, problem-solving and early literacy and math skills in a welcoming environment.

Parents/guardians can register online or in-person. 

Learn more: https://tinyurl.com/8wnn9uv9 

REPOST: HDSB Parent Involvement Committee Conference

The HDSB Parent Involvement Committee (PIC) invites parents/guardians and community members 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. Morning refreshments and a light lunch are also provided. Transportation may be available for attendees who require it to travel from various areas within Halton to the conference. 

Learn more and register by Friday, Oct. 31: https://tinyurl.com/az3tmdx6 

REPOST: MSB Scares Hunger (food collection)

Beginning Tuesday, October 14, 2025, MSB will be collecting food items for the Acton Food Bank. We know there is a strong need to support our local community and we are hoping during this time MSB can help out. Non-perishable food items will be accepted by all homeroom classrooms until Monday, November 03, 2025.  Thank you for considering supporting our community. 

REPOST: Halloween at MSB

Spooky things are happening this month at MSB. We will have some fun events planned including a costume parade and our third annual Pumpkin Patch (pumpkin carving contest). More messaging regarding these events is further down in this email, however please note the below message from the Office in regards to attire: 

There is no expectation for your child to dress up in a costume. If your child chooses to dress in a costume, please help ensure their costume supports the positive and welcoming environment we strive for at our school.

Costume Guidelines for School:

● Costumes should be fun and respectful

● Costumes that mimic the traditional attire of an ethnic, religious, racial or

gender group/identity are not appropriate.

● Costumes that are overly frightening or intended to incite fear are not

appropriate.

● Replica weapons and masks should not be brought to school.

Not everyone dresses up in a costume. Many staff and students choose to wear Orange and Black on this day or dress in whatever they feel most comfortable in. Thank you for your support in keeping our school a safe and welcoming place for all. 

REPOST: Costume Parade

Parents are invited to come to our annual costume parade on Friday, October 31st.  The parade will begin at 9:30am.  We ask that all parents use only the front, main doors to enter the school.  

REPOST: Pumpkin Patch

MSB will host its third annual Pumpkin Patch on Friday, October 31st. Students, and their families, can carve a pumpkin and bring it to school (SOUTH GYM) on this day to show off their carving skill. We will have four categories for students to enter their pumpkins: 

• Scariest Pumpkin

• Funniest Pumpkin

• Most Creative Pumpkin

• Most MSB Pumpkin  

Students will have the opportunity to vote as a class on which pumpkin from each category they feel is the top of the class. 

Pumpkins can be dropped off the morning of Friday, October 31st between 8:15am-9:15am and can be picked up that night between 3:35pm-4:15pm.  Any pumpkins which are not picked up will be disposed of. 

Upcoming Dates

-Oct. 16 -- Acton High School Open House for Grade 6 and 8’s

-Oct. 17 -- Swim to Survive (Gr. 3 only)

-Oct. 20 -- Happy Diwali

-Oct. 20, 21, 22 -- CCAT Testing (Gr. 4 only)

-Oct. 22 -- Growth Mindset Assembly (Positive Attitude)

-Oct. 23 -- Guelph Storm Player Visit to MSB

-Oct. 24 -- Feel Good Friday (dress in comfy clothes or pajama’s)

-Oct. 24 -- Cookie Day (for those who ordered)

Good Afternoon families of McKenzie-Smith Bennett PS, 

Thank you to the amazing support for Acton Food Share. Please be reminded that we are still collecting food items for our ‘We Scare Hunger Campaign’ with every item going directly to support our local community Food Share. The items most needed are: 

Canned Vegetables

Canned Fruit

Canned Meat (chicken, ham, sandwich meat)

Hamburger Helper

Sidekicks

Cereal

Children's snacks

Instant Noodles

Large Soup

Stew 

If you have any questions or concerns please reach out to Michelle Mendes - Vice Principal (mendesmi@hdsb.ca) or Jeff Chaisson - Principal (chaissonj@hdsb.ca). 

Morning Student Drop Off

Please be reminded that we want to ensure the safety of all our students in the morning.  To do this during morning drop off we are asking that parents who need to exit their car to assist their children out of the car, park along the side of the road and not enter the quick drop off area known as “Kiss and Ride”.  We have noted that some parents are getting out of their car to open doors or unbuckle seat belts and this slows down the flow of traffic and backs us up onto the road.

Also, if you are in the “Kiss and Ride” line, we ask that you do not attempt to pass cars in front of you as there are many walkers and this presents a hazard.  

Thank you for continuing to keep MSB as safe as can be

. 

HDSB Kindergarten Registration - September 2026

Do you have a child starting school in September 2026? Registration is underway for Kindergarten in the HDSB! 

The HDSB’s Kindergarten program provides children with a strong foundation for lifelong learning and success by developing curiosity, problem-solving and early literacy and math skills in a welcoming environment.

Parents/guardians can register online or in-person. 

Learn more: https://tinyurl.com/8wnn9uv9 

REPOST: HDSB Parent Involvement Committee Conference

The HDSB Parent Involvement Committee (PIC) invites parents/guardians and community members 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. Morning refreshments and a light lunch are also provided. Transportation may be available for attendees who require it to travel from various areas within Halton to the conference. 

Learn more and register by Friday, Oct. 31: https://tinyurl.com/az3tmdx6 

REPOST: MSB Scares Hunger (food collection)

Beginning Tuesday, October 14, 2025, MSB will be collecting food items for the Acton Food Bank. We know there is a strong need to support our local community and we are hoping during this time MSB can help out. Non-perishable food items will be accepted by all homeroom classrooms until Monday, November 03, 2025.  Thank you for considering supporting our community. 

REPOST: Halloween at MSB

Spooky things are happening this month at MSB. We will have some fun events planned including a costume parade and our third annual Pumpkin Patch (pumpkin carving contest). More messaging regarding these events is further down in this email, however please note the below message from the Office in regards to attire: 

There is no expectation for your child to dress up in a costume. If your child chooses to dress in a costume, please help ensure their costume supports the positive and welcoming environment we strive for at our school.

Costume Guidelines for School:

● Costumes should be fun and respectful

● Costumes that mimic the traditional attire of an ethnic, religious, racial or

gender group/identity are not appropriate.

● Costumes that are overly frightening or intended to incite fear are not

appropriate.

● Replica weapons and masks should not be brought to school.

Not everyone dresses up in a costume. Many staff and students choose to wear Orange and Black on this day or dress in whatever they feel most comfortable in. Thank you for your support in keeping our school a safe and welcoming place for all. 

REPOST: Costume Parade

Parents are invited to come to our annual costume parade on Friday, October 31st.  The parade will begin at 9:30am.  We ask that all parents use only the front, main doors to enter the school.  

REPOST: Pumpkin Patch

MSB will host its third annual Pumpkin Patch on Friday, October 31st. Students, and their families, can carve a pumpkin and bring it to school (SOUTH GYM) on this day to show off their carving skill. We will have four categories for students to enter their pumpkins: 

• Scariest Pumpkin

• Funniest Pumpkin

• Most Creative Pumpkin

• Most MSB Pumpkin  

Students will have the opportunity to vote as a class on which pumpkin from each category they feel is the top of the class. 

Pumpkins can be dropped off the morning of Friday, October 31st between 8:15am-9:15am and can be picked up that night between 3:35pm-4:15pm.  Any pumpkins which are not picked up will be disposed of. 

Upcoming Dates

-Oct. 16 -- Acton High School Open House for Grade 6 and 8’s

-Oct. 17 -- Swim to Survive (Gr. 3 only)

-Oct. 20 -- Happy Diwali

-Oct. 20, 21, 22 -- CCAT Testing (Gr. 4 only)

-Oct. 22 -- Growth Mindset Assembly (Positive Attitude)

-Oct. 23 -- Guelph Storm Player Visit to MSB

-Oct. 24 -- Feel Good Friday (dress in comfy clothes or pajama’s)

-Oct. 24 -- Cookie Day (for those who ordered)

Good Afternoon families of McKenzie-Smith Bennett PS, 

This week has flown by at MSB and we are thankful for the fantastic Fall weather we have been experiencing.  School photo day was a resounding success and we are excited to see all the pictures.  We will have the opportunity for individual student photo retakes on Wednesday, November 19th, 2025.  

We would like to wish all those who are celebrating Diwali on Monday, October 20, 2025.

Finally, we would like to send out positive vibes to all those Blue Jay Fans out there.  Fall ball is exciting and we hope Canada’s team can complete the comeback.  

If you have any questions or concerns please reach out to Michelle Mendes - Vice Principal (mendesmi@hdsb.ca) or Jeff Chaisson - Principal (chaissonj@hdsb.ca). 

HDSB Parent Involvement Committee Conference

The HDSB Parent Involvement Committee (PIC) invites parents/guardians and community members 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. Morning refreshments and a light lunch are also provided. Transportation may be available for attendees who require it to travel from various areas within Halton to the conference. 

Learn more and register by Friday, Oct. 31: https://tinyurl.com/az3tmdx6 

REPOST: MSB Scares Hunger (food collection)

Beginning Tuesday, October 14, 2025, MSB will be collecting food items for the Acton Food Bank. We know there is a strong need to support our local community and we are hoping during this time MSB can help out. Non-perishable food items will be accepted by all homeroom classrooms until Monday, November 03, 2025.  Thank you for considering supporting our community. 

REPOST: Halloween at MSB

Spooky things are happening this month at MSB. We will have some fun events planned including a costume parade and our third annual Pumpkin Patch (pumpkin carving contest). More messaging regarding these events is further down in this email, however please note the below message from the Office in regards to attire: 

There is no expectation for your child to dress up in a costume. If your child chooses to dress in a costume, please help ensure their costume supports the positive and welcoming environment we strive for at our school.

Costume Guidelines for School:

● Costumes should be fun and respectful

● Costumes that mimic the traditional attire of an ethnic, religious, racial or

gender group/identity are not appropriate.

● Costumes that are overly frightening or intended to incite fear are not

appropriate.

● Replica weapons and masks should not be brought to school.

Not everyone dresses up in a costume. Many staff and students choose to wear Orange and Black on this day or dress in whatever they feel most comfortable in. Thank you for your support in keeping our school a safe and welcoming place for all. 

REPOST: Costume Parade

Parents are invited to come to our annual costume parade on Friday, October 31st.  The parade will begin at 9:30am.  We ask that all parents use only the front, main doors to enter the school.  

REPOST: Pumpkin Patch

MSB will host its third annual Pumpkin Patch on Friday, October 31st. Students, and their families, can carve a pumpkin and bring it to school (SOUTH GYM) on this day to show off their carving skill. We will have four categories for students to enter their pumpkins: 

• Scariest Pumpkin

• Funniest Pumpkin

• Most Creative Pumpkin

• Most MSB Pumpkin  

Students will have the opportunity to vote as a class on which pumpkin from each category they feel is the top of the class. 

Pumpkins can be dropped off the morning of Friday, October 31st between 8:15am-9:15am and can be picked up that night between 3:35pm-4:15pm.  Any pumpkins which are not picked up will be disposed of. 

Community Partner : Town of Halton Hills (Halloween Bike Parade) 

Please see the below attachment for information regarding the Town of Halton Hills Bike Parade: 

Town of Halton Hills Bike Parade 

Upcoming Dates

-Oct. 16 -- Acton High School Open House for Grade 6 and 8’s

-Oct. 17 -- Swim to Survive (Gr. 3 only)

-Oct. 20 -- Happy Diwali

-Oct. 20, 21, 22 -- CCAT Testing (Gr. 4 only)

-Oct. 22 -- Growth Mindset Assembly (Positive Attitude)

-Oct. 23 -- Guelph Storm Player Visit to MSB

-Oct. 24 -- Feel Good Friday (dress in comfy clothes or pajama’s)

-Oct. 24 -- Cookie Day (for those who ordered)

Good Afternoon families of McKenzie-Smith Bennett PS, 

Way to go MSB choir! The MSB student choir led by Mr. Brodie performed fabulously at the Guelph Storm Hockey Game on Friday, October 03 as they sung the American and Canadian anthems in front of about three hundred MSB staff, students and families. Not to mention all the other people who were in the hockey arena at the time.  You were fantastic.  

Congratulations to all our Cross Country runners on putting forth their best efforts today in Burlington.  We are so proud of how you represented MSB at the HDSB Cross Country Meet. 

This Friday, October 10th is an important date to be aware of.  On this day, we recognize World Mental Health Day.  This significant day is a chance for all of us to unmask the stigma surrounding mental health.  Please take a moment to enjoy time with your family and check in on all our loved ones. Wishing all our families a restful weekend with family, friends, and loved ones. 

If you have any questions or concerns please reach out to Michelle Mendes - Vice Principal (mendesmi@hdsb.ca) or Jeff Chaisson - Principal (chaissonj@hdsb.ca). 

School Picture Day

MSB will have its school photo day on Wednesday, October 15, 2025.  All students will have the chance to get an individual photo and a whole class photo done on this day.  Families will have the opportunity to purchase the photos from Edge Photography.  Proofs will be sent home with order information.  

Photo retake day will be Wednesday, November 19th, 2025.  No class photos will be taken on this day.  Only individual retakes. 

MSB Scares Hunger (food collection)

Beginning Tuesday, October 14, 2025, MSB will be collecting food items for the Acton Food Bank. We know there is a strong need to support our local community and we are hoping during this time MSB can help out. Non-perishable food items will be accepted by all homeroom classrooms until Monday, November 03, 2025.  Thank you for considering supporting our community. 

Halloween at MSB

Spooky things are happening this month at MSB. We will have some fun events planned including a costume parade and our third annual Pumpkin Patch (pumpkin carving contest). More messaging regarding these events is further down in this email, however please note the below message from the Office in regards to attire: 

There is no expectation for your child to dress up in a costume. If your child chooses to dress in a costume, please help ensure their costume supports the positive and welcoming environment we strive for at our school.

Costume Guidelines for School:

● Costumes should be fun and respectful

● Costumes that mimic the traditional attire of an ethnic, religious, racial or

gender group/identity are not appropriate.

● Costumes that are overly frightening or intended to incite fear are not

appropriate.

● Replica weapons and masks should not be brought to school.

Not everyone dresses up in a costume. Many staff and students choose to wear Orange and Black on this day or dress in whatever they feel most comfortable in. Thank you for your support in keeping our school a safe and welcoming place for all. 

Costume Parade

Parents are invited to come to our annual costume parade on Friday, October 31st.  The parade will begin at 9:30am.  We ask that all parents use only the front, main doors to enter the school.  

Pumpkin Patch

MSB will host its third annual Pumpkin Patch on Friday, October 31st. Students, and their families, can carve a pumpkin and bring it to school (SOUTH GYM) on this day to show off their carving skill. We will have four categories for students to enter their pumpkins: 

• Scariest Pumpkin

• Funniest Pumpkin

• Most Creative Pumpkin

• Most MSB Pumpkin  

Students will have the opportunity to vote as a class on which pumpkin from each category they feel is the top of the class. 

Pumpkins can be dropped off the morning of Friday, October 31st between 8:15am-9:15am and can be picked up that night between 3:35pm-4:15pm.  Any pumpkins which are not picked up will be disposed of. 

Repost: MSB School Spirit Wear AND Grad Shirt Order Information

Want to rock MSB merch? MSB Spirit wear is here. Want a keepsake from your last year at the school?  Please see the link below for order information.

MSB SPIRIT WEAR ORDERS

Please click on the tab that says APPAREL and you will find the offerings for this year.  Please click on the GRAD tab for those who want to order something for students in their final year.  

Do not have the items shipped to your house.  All orders will be shipped to the school and will be shipped by class code.  The online store will close Friday, October 10th, 2025.  If you have any questions please contact the Office.

Community Partner : Town of Halton Hills (Halloween Bike Parade) 

Please see the below attachment for information regarding the Town of Halton Hills Bike Parade: 

Town of Halton Hills Bike Parade 

Upcoming Dates

-Oct. 09 -- Swim to Survive (Gr. 3 only)

-Oct. 10 -- PA Day (No school)

-Oct. 10 -- World Mental Health Day

-Oct. 10 -- Spirit Wear Online Store Closes

-Oct. 13 -- Thanksgiving (No School)

-Oct. 14 -- MSB scares hunger collection begins

-Oct. 15 -- School Photo Day

Good Afternoon families of McKenzie-Smith Bennett PS, 

MSB PROUD!  Thank you to all our families for their generous support of our school Terry Fox goals.  We aimed to raise $6000.00 and surpassed that mark by raising $6296.00.  This is an amazing achievement and you should be proud.

Thank you to Mr. Dipple for running such a successful run on Friday as well.  Our students showed great spirit by collecting popsicle sticks for each lap they completed.  Way to go MSB on your effort. 

This week we had our second of three, term one fire drills.  The students responded very safely and rapidly to the drill. 

Lastly, we can’t wait to see everyone tomorrow night at the MSB Open House.  Our educators are excited to meet all the families and show off our classrooms. Be reminded that doors will open at 6:00pm. Pizza will be served for those who ordered it at 5:45pm out back by the baseball diamond.  Bring a drink and blanket to sit on. 

If you have any questions or concerns please reach out to Michelle Mendes - Vice Principal (mendesmi@hdsb.ca) or Jeff Chaisson - Principal (chaissonj@hdsb.ca). 

Repost: MSB School Spirit Wear AND Grad Shirt Order Information

Want to rock MSB merch? MSB Spirit wear is here. Want a keepsake from your last year at the school?  Please see the link below for order information.

MSB SPIRIT WEAR ORDERS

Please click on the tab that says APPAREL and you will find the offerings for this year.  Please click on the GRAD tab for those who want to order something for students in their final year.  

Do not have the items shipped to your house.  All orders will be shipped to the school and will be shipped by class code.  The online store will close Friday, October 10th, 2025.  If you have any questions please contact the Office.

School Council #2

On Monday, October 06th at 6:15pm, we will host our second School Council meeting both in-person and virtually for those who want to log in. For those coming to the school, we will meet in the library and you can enter via the front door.  For those who are attending virtually here is the link: 

School Council #2 Virtual Link

Topics to be discussed: 

-voting on the School Council Constitution

-details for our Fall Fundraiser

-possible future fundraisers

Upcoming Dates

-Oct. 2 -- MSB Open House (6:00pm-7:00pm)

-Oct. 3 -- MSB @ Guelph Storm Game (Choir Sings)

-Oct. 6 -- School Council #2 (in-person and virtual -- details above)

-Oct. 8 -- Cross Country Team to Burlington for Meet

-Oct. 10 -- PA Day (No school)

-Oct. 10 -- Spirit Wear Online Store Closes

-Oct. 13 -- Thanksgiving (No School)

Good Afternoon families of McKenzie-Smith Bennett PS, 

On Tuesday, September 30, 2025, we will recognize National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This day is an important opportunity for our school community to honour Survivors of residential schools, their families, and the children who never returned home. It also serves as a reminder of our shared responsibility to learn about the truths of Canada’s history and to commit to reconciliation in meaningful ways.

At MSB, students and staff will take part in age-appropriate learning experiences that focus on Indigenous histories, cultures, and perspectives. We will also encourage students and staff to wear orange shirts as a symbol of remembrance and our collective commitment to truth and reconciliation.

The Halton District School Board is committed to equity, and Indigenous rights, and this day provides an opportunity for reflection and action. We encourage families to continue conversations at home by exploring resources, stories, and teachings that support learning about Indigenous Peoples and reconciliation.

Together, through listening, learning, and taking action, we can help build a future founded on respect, understanding, and partnership.

Thank you for your support in helping our students recognize the significance of this day.

Good Afternoon families of McKenzie-Smith Bennett PS, 

It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to one of our outstanding educators.  Ms. Davey will be leaving us as a result of the HDSB reorganization on Monday, September 29th, 2025.  Ms. Davey has been an unbelievable colleague and educator during her time at MSB and we truly appreciate all that she has done for us.  We wish her the very best at her new school. 

As a reminder, students affected by the reorganization and will have a new homeroom teacher have been contacted.  All changes to new class placement take place on Monday, September 29th, 2025.  If you did not get a phone call from the Office, it means that you are still with the same homeroom teacher.

If you have any questions or concerns please reach out to Michelle Mendes - Vice Principal (mendesmi@hdsb.ca) or Jeff Chaisson - Principal (chaissonj@hdsb.ca). 

MSB School Open House

MSB will open its doors to the community on Thursday, October 2nd, 2025 from 6:00pm-7:00pm.  We encourage all our students and their families to come in and explore the school while also meeting their teachers.  This is an informal meet and greet with our staff.  Due to the high volume of visitors, staff will not have time to offer individual feedback on student achievement or progress.  Please reach out to your child’s teacher if you would like specific information.  

We will be offering the opportunity for families to order a pizza to be delivered to the school for 5:45pm.  This will be just before we open our doors to the public for the Open House.  If you would like to order dinner and have a picnic style dinner, bring your own lawn chair or blanket, out back of the school for 5:45pm please visit School Cash Online by clicking below: 

School Cash Online 

Should it rain, families will be able to come in and eat in the South Gym Bleachers.

We will also have an ice cream truck on site which will take cash payment. 

MSB School Spirit Wear Order Information

Want to rock MSB merch? MSB Spirit wear is here.  Please see the link below for order information.

MSB SPIRIT WEAR ORDERS

Please click on the tab that says APPAREL and you will find the offerings for this year.  Do not have the items shipped to your house.  All orders will be shipped to the school and will be shipped by class code.  The online store will close Friday, October 10th, 2025.  If you have any questions please contact the Office.

Spirit Day -- Feel Good Friday -- Sept. 26

This Friday, September 26th, MSB will partake in both Terry Fox Run and its first spirit day.  This is a day that has been created for students to wear what makes them feel good; whether it be comfy clothes, school spirit wear, a dress or tie.  Let's make the last Friday of each month one to make us feel great.

Cookie Day -- Sept. 26

This Friday, September 26th will also be our first cookie day for those who purchased through School Cash Online.  

Reminder:  Terry Fox Run - Sept. 26

Please remember to dress for the weather and bring extra water on Friday, September 26th, 2025 as MSB will be running in honour of Terry Fox.  Thank you to all those who have donated in support of the fight against cancer. 

Repost: Open Houses for new to school students -- Calling all three-year olds

Calling all three-year olds to the Halton District School Board!​​ In October and November, the HDSB will be hosting Kindergarten Open Houses in Acton, Georgetown, Burlington, Milton and Oakville to answer any questions families may have about how the HDSB sets students up for lifelong learning and success. 

Future students and their families are invited to attend any of the following Kindergarten Open Houses, to be held between 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.:

• Acton: Oct. 8, 2025 - Robert Little Public School 

• Georgetown: Oct. 16, 2025 - Ethel Gardiner Public School 

• Burlington: Nov. 6, 2025 - Alton Village Public School 

• Milton: Nov. 13, 2025 - Irma Coulson Public School 

• Oakville: Nov. 20, 2025 - Dr. David R. Williams Public School

Learn more: https://tinyurl.com/5n8a5bd9 

Repost: MSB Terry Fox Fundraising and Run

MSB will host an annual Terry Fox Run on Friday, September 26th, 2025.  Students will join staff in honouring the memory of Terry Fox on this day.  MSB will be raising funds for the Terry Fox Foundation directly through the Terry Fox Foundation website.  Note that MSB will not collect money directly through the school.   Please see below for information from Mr. Dipple: 

“GOOD AFTERNOON MUSTANGS,

We are excited to begin our annual fundraising for the 2025 Terry Fox Marathon of Hope. The MSB community always steps up to make this one of the most successful events of the year. Last year we showed our spirit by exceeding our goal of $6000 with a grand total of $8660.55. We are hoping to meet and surpass this year’s goal of $6500. 

To make this year’s event a success, we have moved to an online fundraising platform. Each class has their own fundraising page, so that we classes can set their own targets. Below you will find the links for each class. To donate, simply click on the link for your student’s class, and then the donate button. Donations of $20 and greater will generate a tax receipt. 

We are so grateful for your support this year for a very worthwhile cause. 

GO MUSTANGS!

Upcoming Dates

-Sept 24 -- Spirit Wear Orders Open 

(MSB Spirit Wear Online Shop)

-Sept. 26 -- MSB Terry Fox Run (bring your water bottle)

-Sept. 26 -- Spirit Day (Feel Good Friday) 

-Sept. 26 -- First Cookie Day (optional for those who purchased)

-Sept. 30 -- National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

-Oct. 2 -- Open House Night (see above for information)

-Oct. 3 -- MSB @ Guelph Storm Game (Choir Sings)

-Oct. 6 -- School Council #2 (in-person and virtual -- details to come)

-Oct. 8 -- Cross Country Team to Burlington for Meet

-Oct. 10 -- PA Day (No school)

Good Afternoon families of McKenzie-Smith Bennett PS, 

We have had another busy week here full of learning and great weather.  We started the week kicking off the Terry Fox Fundraising Campaign.  Thank you to all those who have gone online to donate in Terry’s name.  A big thank you to Mr. Dipple for organizing our Terry Fox run and fundraising efforts.  A big thank you in advance to our community for considering a donation to help cure cancer. We can’t wait to see if we will raise enough money to have Mr. Dipple wear a chicken suit.

On a more serious note we do have a change to our staff that we would like to communicate.  Unfortunately, we will be losing Ms. Swinton from our Kindergarten team. We are sad to see her go and wish her all the best in her future.  We welcome Ms. Khan who will be joining Ms. Manning in KF-1 beginning on Monday.  Be sure say, “Hello” to her. 

If you have any questions or concerns please reach out to Michelle Mendes - Vice Principal (mendesmi@hdsb.ca) or Jeff Chaisson - Principal (chaissonj@hdsb.ca). 

Open Houses for new to school students -- Calling all three-year olds

Calling all three-year olds to the Halton District School Board!​​ In October and November, the HDSB will be hosting Kindergarten Open Houses in Acton, Georgetown, Burlington, Milton and Oakville to answer any questions families may have about how the HDSB sets students up for lifelong learning and success. 

Future students and their families are invited to attend any of the following Kindergarten Open Houses, to be held between 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.:

• Acton: Oct. 8, 2025 - Robert Little Public School 

• Georgetown: Oct. 16, 2025 - Ethel Gardiner Public School 

• Burlington: Nov. 6, 2025 - Alton Village Public School 

• Milton: Nov. 13, 2025 - Irma Coulson Public School 

• Oakville: Nov. 20, 2025 - Dr. David R. Williams Public School

Learn more: https://tinyurl.com/5n8a5bd9 

Help 300 HDSB Students Start School with Confidence by Sept. 30

Some students in our community walked into school last week without a backpack, supplies, or even lunch. The Halton Learning Foundation (HLF), thanks to our donors, is here to help.

Since the beginning of this school year, HLF has supported more than 126 students across our HDSB schools, including 70 students in the past two days alone, with emergency help and school supplies.

HLF’s goal is to help 300 students by September 30, but with only a few weeks left, they are asking our generous community to step in urgently, to make sure they can continue to say “YES” to every request for emergency support they receive.

Here's what one parent shared last week about what saying “YES” meant to her family:

"Just wanted to say how grateful I am for this support. I’m a single mom, and because of your help, I’m able to get what my daughter needs for back-to-school and food, and I’m so unbelievably grateful for the support."

Make a gift for a student in need today: Donate Now

Together, we can give students not just supplies, but confidence, dignity, and hope.

Repost: Lunch Lady Lunch Program

We will be offering families the chance to have lunches made and delivered to the school for students on Mondays and Wednesdays through the Lunch Lady Program.  Please click here for information and to order as this is NOT THROUGH SCHOOL CASH ONLINE: 

Lunch Lady Website

Lunch will be delivered to the school second break on Monday’s and Wednesday’s if you choose to order. 

Repost: School Council Meeting #1 -- Virtual Link Here

Please be advised that we will be hosting a virtual School Council meeting on Monday, September 22nd, 2025.  This will be the first meeting of the year and we will elect a new council executive as well review our constitution and outline some initial fundraising ideas.  ALL ARE WELCOME.  If you are new and just want to come out to see what council is about please join in.  Meetings begin at 6:15pm and may be in person or virtual.  Hope to see you there.  

Repost: MSB Terry Fox Fundraising and Run

MSB will host an annual Terry Fox Run on Friday, September 26th, 2025.  Students will join staff in honouring the memory of Terry Fox on this day.  MSB will be raising funds for the Terry Fox Foundation directly through the Terry Fox Foundation website.  Note that MSB will not collect money directly through the school.   Please see below for information from Mr. Dipple: 

“GOOD AFTERNOON MUSTANGS,

We are excited to begin our annual fundraising for the 2025 Terry Fox Marathon of Hope. The MSB community always steps up to make this one of the most successful events of the year. Last year we showed our spirit by exceeding our goal of $6000 with a grand total of $8660.55. We are hoping to meet and surpass this year’s goal of $6500. 

To make this year’s event a success, we have moved to an online fundraising platform. Each class has their own fundraising page, so that we classes can set their own targets. Below you will find the links for each class. To donate, simply click on the link for your student’s class, and then the donate button. Donations of $20 and greater will generate a tax receipt. 

We are so grateful for your support this year for a very worthwhile cause. 

GO MUSTANGS!

Upcoming Dates

-Sept. 22 -- School Council #1 - 6:15 (virtual link here)

-Sept. 23 -- Pizza Lunches Begin if ordered

-Sept. 25 -- Sub Lunches Begin if ordered

-Sept. 26 -- MSB Terry Fox Run (bring your water bottle)

-Sept. 30 -- National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

-Oct. 2 -- Open House Night (information to come)

-Oct. 3 -- MSB @ Guelph Storm Game (Choir Sings)

Good Afternoon families of McKenzie-Smith Bennett PS, 

We have had amazing weather for our first full week of school. Fall activities have started such as our Cross Country team and soon Choir. We encourage all students to get involved in activities and clubs.

With the warm weather we have noticed hornets buzzing around. We have already rid our school of two nests thanks to the help of our facilities staff. If you notice any nests please notify the Office. 

We thank all caregivers for their help in keeping our space safe by saying goodbye to their children behind the orange pylons. This has made dropoff and pickup calm and safe. 

If you have any questions or concerns please reach out to Michelle Mendes - Vice Principal (mendesmi@hdsb.ca) or Jeff Chaisson - Principal (chaissonj@hdsb.ca).  

Lunch Lady Lunch Program

We will be offering families the chance to have lunches made and delivered to the school for students on Mondays and Wednesdays through the Lunch Lady Program.  Please click here for information and to order as this is NOT THROUGH SCHOOL CASH ONLINE: 

Lunch Lady Website

Lunch will be delivered to the school second break on Monday’s and Wednesday’s if you choose to order. 

School Council Meeting #1 -- Virtual Link Here

Please be advised that we will be hosting a virtual School Council meeting on Monday, September 22nd, 2025.  This will be the first meeting of the year and we will elect a new council executive as well review our constitution and outline some initial fundraising ideas.  ALL ARE WELCOME.  If you are new and just want to come out to see what council is about please join in.  Meetings begin at 6:15pm and may be in person or virtual.  Hope to see you there.  

MSB Terry Fox Fundraising and Run

MSB will host an annual Terry Fox Run on Friday, September 26th, 2025.  Students will join staff in honouring the memory of Terry Fox on this day.  MSB will be raising funds for the Terry Fox Foundation directly through the Terry Fox Foundation website.  Note that MSB will not collect money directly through the school.   Please see below for information from Mr. Dipple: 

“GOOD AFTERNOON MUSTANGS,

We are excited to begin our annual fundraising for the 2025 Terry Fox Marathon of Hope. The MSB community always steps up to make this one of the most successful events of the year. Last year we showed our spirit by exceeding our goal of $6000 with a grand total of $8660.55.

We are hoping to meet and surpass this year’s goal of $6500. 

To make this year’s event a success, we have moved to an online fundraising platform. Each class has their own fundraising page, so that we classes can set their own targets. 

Below you will find the links for each class. To donate, simply click on the link for your student’s class, and then the donate button. Donations of $20 and greater will generate a tax receipt. 

We are so grateful for your support this year for a very worthwhile cause. 

GO MUSTANGS!

Volunteering @ MSB

In order to ensure the safety of all students, we require all volunteers, including those going on school trips, to have a criminal record background check with vulnerable sector screening through Halton Regional Police Services (HRPS).  Please see this link in order to get more information about the process from our board: 

HDSB Process for Volunteering

If you would like more information please reach out to the office. 

REPOST: GUELPH STORM GAME TICKET ORDER - Friday, October 3rd, 2025

On Friday, October 3rd, 2025 the MSB Choir will have the opportunity to sing O Canada and The Star Spangled Banner on ice at the Sleeman Centre in Guelph at the hockey game.  Puck drop is at 7:07 PM. We are inviting all MSB families to purchase tickets to watch the Guelph Storm take on the Saginaw Spirit that evening.

Tickets are only $20.00 per person (approx. 33% off the regular adult ticket price!). This event is a fundraiser for MSB music programming.  We are excited to report that $4.00 of your $20.00 ticket goes directly back to the school.  You’re welcome to bring friends and extended family members, too! Choir members will not have to pay for their ticket.

To purchase tickets please visit: 

School Cash Online. 

DEADLINE TO PURCHASE IS WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2025.

REPOST: Lunch Program Offerings at MSB for 2025-26

All payments for MSB lunch programs and cookie days will be made through School Cash Online.  All of the below food offerings are optional.  All of the below food offerings will be available for purchase on School Cash Online beginning Friday, September 05, 2025.  We will close purchasing of the below items on Monday, September 15, 2025.  We will not be accepting late orders. 

Pizza Days:  Pizza day will again run on Tuesday’s.  The first session will run from Tuesday, September 23, 2025 until Tuesday, December 16, 2025. The cost for this will be $2.00 per slice with proceeds going towards Digital Tools for the Library and Indoor Recess Bins. 

Sub Days: Sub days will again run on Thursday’s.  The first session will run from Thursday, September 25, 2025 until Thursday, December 18, 2025.  The cost for this will be $7.25 per meal which will include a six inch sub, apple juice box, a bag of chips with proceeds going towards school jerseys for sporting events.

Cookie Days: Cookie days will run during specific school Spirit Days. There will be 10 cookie days. The cost for this will be $20.00 for the year ($2.00 per cookie) with proceeds split between Halton Learning Foundation (HLF) and Halton Food For Thought (HFFT).  A schedule will be coming in next week's newsletter. 

If you have dietary restrictions and would like information on possible options for any of the above opportunities please contact Tania Spill - Senior Administrative Assistant via email (spillt@hdsb.ca) and we will do our best to make the appropriate arrangements. 

Upcoming Dates

-Sept. 15 -- Lunch Lady Program Begins

-Sept. 15 -- School Cash Closes for Lunch Programs and Cookie Days

-Sept. 17 -- Deadline to Purchase Guelph Storm Hockey Tickets

-Sept. 22 -- School Council #1 - 6:15 (virtual link here)

-Sept. 26 -- MSB Terry Fox Run (bring your water bottle)

-Sept. 30 -- National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

-Oct. 2 -- Open House Night (information to come)

-Oct. 3 -- MSB @ Guelph Storm Game (Choir Sings)

Good Afternoon families of McKenzie-Smith Bennett PS, 

What a wonderful start to the school year.  We have been having so much fun reconnecting with your children.  We want to extend a thank you to all caregivers for honouring our pylon barriers during drop-off and pick-up.  We want to ensure a safe perimeter and your attention to this has been very helpful.  We will continue with the perimeter this week with the hope of parents establishing a drop-off and pick up routine for the coming weeks.  As a reminder MSB Staff supervision begins at 9:00am in the morning and supervision ends at 3:50pm in the afternoon.  Thank you for your support in keeping your children safe. 

We kindly ask that parent/guardian(s) label all water bottles, shoes, clothing items with student name and class in order to ensure that lost items are easily returned. 

If you have any questions or concerns please reach out to Michelle Mendes - Vice Principal (mendesmi@hdsb.ca) or Jeff Chaisson - Principal (chaissonj@hdsb.ca).  

GUELPH STORM GAME TICKET ORDER - Friday, October 3rd, 2025

On Friday, October 3rd, 2025 the MSB Choir will have the opportunity to sing O Canada and The Star Spangled Banner on ice at the Sleeman Centre in Guelph at the hockey game.  Puck drop is at 7:07 PM. We are inviting all MSB families to purchase tickets to watch the Guelph Storm take on the Saginaw Spirit that evening.

Tickets are only $20.00 per person (approx. 33% off the regular adult ticket price!). This event is a fundraiser for MSB music programming.  We are excited to report that $4.00 of your $20.00 ticket goes directly back to the school.  You’re welcome to bring friends and extended family members, too! Choir members will not have to pay for their ticket.

To purchase tickets please visit: 

School Cash Online. 

DEADLINE TO PURCHASE IS WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2025.

First Week Forms

Please be aware that your child will be bringing home a paper copy of what we call “First Day/Week Forms”.  These forms are very important to us and we require them filled out and sent back to your child’s homeroom teacher ASAP.  These forms include: 

-Elementary Physical Education and Intramural Information Letter

-Medical Danger - Anaphylaxis

-Statement of Personal Information Practices 2025-26

-Authorization for use of Student Photos/Videos

-Informed Consent: Outdoor Experiential Education (walking)

Lunch Program Offerings at MSB for 2025-26

All payments for MSB lunch programs and cookie days will be made through School Cash Online.  All of the below food offerings are optional.  All of the below food offerings will be available for purchase on School Cash Online beginning Friday, September 05, 2025.  We will close purchasing of the below items on Monday, September 15, 2025.  We will not be accepting late orders. 

Pizza Days:  Pizza day will again run on Tuesday’s.  The first session will run from Tuesday, September 23, 2025 until Tuesday, December 16, 2025. The cost for this will be $2.00 per slice with proceeds going towards Digital Tools for the Library and Indoor Recess Bins. 

Sub Days: Sub days will again run on Thursday’s.  The first session will run from Thursday, September 25, 2025 until Thursday, December 18, 2025.  The cost for this will be $7.25 per meal which will include a six inch sub, apple juice box, a bag of chips with proceeds going towards school jerseys for sporting events.

Cookie Days: Cookie days will run during our school Spirit Days. There will be 10 cookie days. The cost for this will be $20.00 for the year ($2.00 per cookie) with proceeds split between Halton Learning Foundation (HLF) and Halton Food For Thought (HFFT).  A schedule will be coming in next week's newsletter. 

If you have dietary restrictions and would like information on possible options for any of the above opportunities please contact Tania Spill - Senior Administrative Assistant via email (spillt@hdsb.ca) and we will do our best to make the appropriate arrangements. 

REPOST- ACTION:  Early Literacy Screeners for families of Year 2 Kindergarten’s to Grade 2’s

Families who have a child(ren) in Year 2 Kindergarten to Grade 2 please see the below link for information: 

Letter to Families - beginning of the year

REPOST - ACTION:  School Council 2025-26

All parent/guardian(s) are welcome to join the 2025-26 MSB School Council.  This council will meet a minimum of four times over the school year with dates being sent via School Messenger.  Start times of the meeting are 6:15pm and typically last 60 to 75 minutes.  If you are interested in running for a position of leadership on school council please fill in the form below: 

School Council Nomination Form

If you are interested in learning more we invite you to come out to council meetings as a participant when dates are set in the future.

Upcoming Dates

-Sept. 05 -- School Cash Opens for Lunch Programs and Cookie Days

-Sept. 15 -- School Cash Closes for Lunch Programs and Cookie Days

-Sept. 17 -- Deadline to Purchase Guelph Storm Hockey Tickets

-Sept. 30 -- National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

-Oct. 2 -- Open House Night (information to come)

-Oct. 3 -- MSB Guelph Storm game night

Good Afternoon families of McKenzie-Smith Bennett PS, 

On behalf of the McKenzie-Smith Bennett (MSB) Public School staff, Welcome Back!  The 2025-26 school year is upon us.  For those families new to MSB, we are looking forward to you learning how great a community we have.  For those families who are returning to MSB, we look forward to another great school year. 

We will continue to send a weekly update from the office via School Messenger.  Please see below for a couple of reminders for the first week of school: 

• Class lists will be sent via email on Friday, August 29th, 2025 after 2:00pm.  You will need your child’s Ontario Education Number (OEN) to access it. 

• Tuesday, September 02, 2025 is a PA Day. There is no school for students. 

• Wednesday, September 03, 2025 is the first school day. Teachers will meet their class at the back of the school on the blacktop beginning at 9:00am.  Teachers will have a sign to indicate the grade they are teaching and will have class lists if you aren’t sure which class to go to.  School begins at 9:15am.  School ends at 3:35pm. 

• To maintain a safe area, we ask that parents find the classroom teacher, give a quick hug and kiss, and then move to the designated parent area.   

If you have any questions or concerns please reach out to Michelle Mendes - Vice Principal (mendesmi@hdsb.ca) or Jeff Chaisson - Principal (chaissonj@hdsb.ca).  

ACTION:  Early Literacy Screeners for families of Year 2 Kindergarten’s to Grade 2’s

Families who have a child(ren) in Year 2 Kindergarten to Grade 2 please see the below link for information: 

Letter to Families - beginning of the year

ACTION:  School Council 2025-26

All parent/guardian(s) are welcome to join the 2025-26 MSB School Council.  This council will meet a minimum of four times over the school year with dates being sent via School Messenger.  Start times of the meeting are 6:15pm and typically last 60 to 75 minutes.  If you are interested in running for a position of leadership on school council please fill in the form below: 

School Council Nomination Form

If you are interested in learning more we invite you to come out to council meetings as a participant when dates are set in the future.

Upcoming Dates

-Aug. 29 -- Class placement’s sent via email

-Sept. 02 -- PA Day

-Sept. 03 -- First Day of School

-Oct. 2 -- Open House Night (information to come)

-Oct. 3 -- MSB Guelph Storm game night (information to come)