On The Trail - February , 2002 (Back to Publication Main Menu)

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Principal's Message
As we embark on a new semester, I would like to extend a sincere welcome to new students and families to our school We are pleased to have you as part of our Mount Royal Community.

Even as we begin semester two, we are beginning preparations for the 2002-2003 school year. Visits to our neighbourhood elementary schools have been completed, and we look forward to grade eight students and parents visiting our school for our Open House. On Thursday, February 7th at 7:00 P.M. we will have the opportunity to highlight our school and programs to our future grade nine students. We are excited to be able to showcase Mount Royal. As well, we will begin pre-registration for current students in the weeks to come.

It is a pleasure to take this opportunity to reflect on the many accomplishments of our students during the first semester: The Senior Football Team had an outstanding session, finishing as silver medallists in the city; the Junior Boys' Volleyball Team finished second in the city championships; our Senior Cheerleaders were medallists at BRIT; the Trumpet Newspaper continues to produce outstanding issues and has won several awards over the years; our Dinner Theatre featuring music and drama performances was truly outstanding; the Senior Boys' Basketball Team is currently in first place in the Western Division; the Wrestling Team is beginning what could be another championship season; our Mustang Volley and Tip-Off Classic Tournaments were outstanding; and the large number of students who are excelling in their academic studies is commendable. Our thanks are extended to all coaches, supervisors, and students for the time and effort they devote to our activity programs. As well, we acknowledge the excellent support provided by our parents/guardians in encouraging your sons and daughters to contribute to our overall program, and in attending our many school functions.

We encourage parents/guardians to continue to be involved in the education of your student. You are welcome to attend parent council meetings scheduled for the first Wednesday of the month. Visit us during the parent teacher interviews on March 21st (6:30 - 9:00 P.M.) or March 22nd (1:30 - 3:30 P.M.) We welcome and appreciate your involvement. As well, do not hesitate to call us if you have any questions or concerns.

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STAFF CHANGES
Semester change brings with it a number of staff changes. Among those who are leaving are Mrs. Young (Resource Room), Mrs. Montalbetti (English/Choral), Mrs. Barboluk (Student Services Secretary) and Mr. Steer (Music). We want to thank these departing staff members for the many contributions they have made to our school.

We want to extend a welcome from Mount Royal Collegiate to Ms. Helps (Math) and Mrs. Burwell (Student Services Secretary). Also we welcome back Mrs. Regnier (Resource Room), Mr. Holmes (Science) and Mrs. Pittman (Music). We look forward to your involvement in our school programs

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GRADE 9 MDA
December was a frenzy of academic, social and fundraising activities. The English/Social Studies course focused on Medieval/Elizabethan England. Students studied Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. We enriched that with a visit to the University of Saskatchewan Greystone Theatre. In a Shakespearean drama workshop, students learned the reality of Elizabethan weapons and stage combat. We enjoyed the "big screen/big sound" Romeo and Juliet movie. Following that, student teams created their own videos, learning storyboard techniques and editing skills. On December 21st, we held our annual Medieval Feast. Using recipes from the 12th century, students provided interesting entrees and desserts. Everyone dressed in costumes of the time period and we ate, danced and toasted fair maidens and brave knights!

As well as in-class activities, we were actively fundraising. In November/December, we sold Sunsweet products. On January 12th we held a successful bottle drive and now we are selling Carmel chocolate bars. This should be our last fundraiser. We can now begin to plan our trip scheduled for May 9th - 11th.

Semester II has the students in a Science/Math/Information Processing compression. The first unit will allow students to develop their Science projects. In English, students will focus on Prairie Literature. In addition, we will provide creative entries for Creative Adventures, an educational supplement of the Star Phoenix. Watch the Star Phoenix on March 26th for enjoyable compositions.

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MUSTANG WRESTLING FEDERATION

The season has almost reached the half-way point already. We have been involved in several dual meets and sport a 3-0 record at this juncture. The squad has taken in one tournament and have several more in the near future. The outlook for the rest of the season looks good. We have a strong core of leaders building on last year's success. Couple that with several strong wrestlers in Grade 9 and 10 and things look bright!

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TRACKING THE MUSTANGS
Five Mount Royal wrestlers have been named to the Zone 5 team for the Saskatchewan Winter Games. Troy Lange (Grade 9), Bryce Vetter (Grade 10), Jordan Marcotte (Grade 10), Devin Packard (Grade 10) and Chris Kulbida (Grade 11).

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CALLING ALL GRADE 9's &10's
Are you interested in trying out for the Junior Badminton team? Be ready to come out to tryouts on Monday, February 25th - Wednesday, February 27th at 3:30 P.M. Be dressed and ready to participate on time!
Grade 11 and 12 Students: Badminton tryouts will begin on Monday, February 25th - Wednesday, February 27th at 5:00 P.M.

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CONGRATULATIONS

Congratulations to our two Mount Royal mathematicians, LOGAN HOEHN and ANDREW TREMBLAY, who competed in the Canadian Open Mathematics Challenge on November 28th, 2001. Results should be announced in early February. See Mr. Ouellet in room #221 for more details.
Thirty-two Mount Royal students will compete in the upcoming Pascal, Cayley and Fermat Math Contests on Tuesday, February 26th at 8:30 A.M. in Open Area #2 (room #243). Good luck to all participants!

Practice sessions will begin on Wednesday, January 30th during the lunch hour in room #221.

All participating students must pick up an activity release slip from Mr. Ouellet.

Grade 12 students interested in competing in the Euclid and DesCartes math contests must register with Mr. Ouellet in room #221 before Wednesday, February 13th. These two contests will take place on Tuesday, April 16th (Euclid) and Wednesday, April 17th (Descartes).

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HAVE YOU HEARD?

.... that ERIC MILNE was the recipient of a $500.00 scholarship awarded by CUPE 34, Caretaking and Maintenance Union. In addition, CUPE 1948 has also awarded Eric a $500.00 scholarship. Congratulations!

..... that JUSTIN LAVERTU was selected High School Athlete of the Week by the Saskatoon Secondary Schools Athletic Directorate (SSSAD).
Great display of athletic skills, teamwork, leadership and sportsmanship values!

..... that NEDIM DEUMIC (a former ESL student) and PAMELA UHRMANN (2000/2001 student) are recipients of the Centennial Merit Scholarship awarded by S.I.A.S.T., receiving full tuition for their first year. Congratulations!

.... former graduate, WENDY LOVERIDGE (class of 2001) has been selected to the Katimavik Youth Group. Wendy will spend the next eight months travelling across Canada volunteering for different projects.

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L.S.W.S.
Tyler Perkins is a grade ten student in the Life Skills Work Study Program. From November 13th to January 17th, Tyler volunteered over 80 hours at the Friendship Inn. Tyler worked in the kitchen, dish room, office and on the pick-up truck. He worked hard in all of these areas, learning many skills that will help him when he begins to look for employment. Tyler enjoyed himself so much that he went over the holidays and helped serve Christmas dinner!
We are very proud of your accomplishment, Tyler. Keep up the good work!

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MOUNT ROYAL STUDENT PROFILE
The draft version of the Student Profile Questionnaire is now on the Mount Royal Website: http://schools.spsd.sk.ca/mount/
Click on "New Stuff", then go to "Administration". Acrobat Reader is a free download. If the Internet is not available to you, call the school and ask for a copy. Staff and students are reviewing the draft survey. Your comments are important in making the Student Profile a useful source of information.

We would like to have the Mount Royal Student Profile in final form by early March, 2002.

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STUDENT SERVICES
The registration process is underway for Grade 8's in our ten elementary schools. Mount Royal's Annual Open House on February 7th will be an opportunity for Grade 8's and parents to check out our collegiate before finalizing their registration plans.
In-House Registration
Our own Grade 9-11 students will be selecting their programs for the next school year during the week of February 11th - 15th. Students can clarify their credit status and post-secondary requirements in Student Services.

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NEW PARTNERSHIPS PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES

Since the last newsletter, Mount Royal has developed a number of partnership programs. We would like to let you know about these programs and in doing so, thank our partners and volunteers for the work they are doing with our students.

SASKATOON COMMUNITY MEDIATION SERVICES (SCMS)

CONFLICT RESOLUTION TRAINING
Beginning on February 5th, 2002, Saskatoon Community Mediation Services will be spending six hours in most of our Grade 9 Lifestyles classes teaching conflict management and conflict resolution skills. Their approach is very "hands on" and gives students the opportunity to practice skills they have learned. We look forward to having staff from SCMS in our building and learning from their expertise.

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MENDEL ART GALLERY "ART FOR LIFE" PROGRAM
The Mendel Art Gallery, with financial support from the Saskatoon Credit Union, has just entered into a three-year partnership program with Mount Royal called "Art For Life". This gallery/school program will build skills within our community and school to explore, critique, celebrate and visualize the world around us through art. A gallery/school liaison worker, Suzy Schwanke, will be at the school one day a week to meet with staff, brainstorm ideas, and implement programs which will assist students, classrooms and the school as a whole. In upcoming newsletters we will provide you with information about specific activities undertaken through this Program.

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FRONTIER COLLEGE - TUTORING PROGRAM
Frontier College is a Canada-wide, volunteer-based, literacy organization that works with community-based educational programs. Volunteer tutors are recruited, trained and matched with students who need some extra help. During second semester we have eight volunteers from the University of Saskatchewan who will be working with our Grade 9 and 10 English classrooms. We would like to thank Frontier College for making this program possible.

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STAFF APPRECIATION EVENT
The Mount Royal Collegiate Association (parent council), in Partnership with the Saskatchewan Association of School Councils (SASC) and Howard Coad School, hosted the official launch of Staff Appreciation Week for the Province of Saskatchewan. This gala event was held on February 11th and featured presentations from: the Honourable Jim Melenchuk, Minister of Education; Ruth Griffith, President of SASC; Terry Pearson, Director of Education for the Saskatoon Public School Division; Dan Danielson, Trustee for the Saskatoon Board of Education; and Lynn Earle, President of the Mount Royal Collegiate Association. We would like to thank our parent council and students for recognizing the efforts of our staff team and making us feel special.

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MOTIVATIONAL MEDIA ASSEMBLIES INC.

A TIN BOX PERFORMANCE ENTITLED "180"
On Monday, February 4, 2002, Motivational Media Assemblies Inc. showed their newest production at Mount Royal. "180", the title of the show, encouraged students to "turn things around" in their lives and approach the future with a positive and contagious attitude. "180" also addressed the dangers of drinking and driving. The production was shown on a 43 foot triple screen DVD video wall and featured scenes from the latest Hollywood motion pictures and music by: The Dave Matthews Band, Train, Destiny's Child, Jeff Beck, Cold Play, Incubus, Our Lady Peace, and many more. Approximately 750 students from Mount Royal viewed the first showing and 750 Grade 7 and 8 students from feeder schools viewed the second showing.

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COMMUNITY ACCESS PROGRAM
Through the Community Access Program (CAP), parents, community members and students can have access to computers and the and students can have free internet. Our CAP site is located on the main floor of the school near Student Services. The CAP site has five computers and is open to the public Monday through Friday from 12:00 noon - 4:00 pm. On Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays there is an instructor at the CAP site from noon - 2:00 P.M. to assist anyone needing help. If you would like to use the CAP site, please call Kyla Burwell at 683-7825 to book a time. Hope to see you.

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SASKATCHEWAN HEALTH "KICK THE NICK" PROGRAM
Did you know that in the student survey conducted in 2001, 193 students stated that "they would like to stop smoking now", and 84 students said they "would join a group of students for mutual support to stop smoking". In response, staff at Mount Royal have set up a partnership program with Saskatoon District Health to provide a "Kick the Nick" program for students wishing to try to quit smoking. This program got underway in early February. Good luck to all students who have the strength to try and quit a very addictive habit.

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PERSEPHONE CLUB
This semester will see the start of a new club at Mount Royal. They Persephone Club is for students who have developed a passion for live theatre. Thirty-three students have joined and each student purchases a half-season ticket for the Persephone Theatre. The tickets are subsidized by both the Persephone and the school. These students attend three matinees. The first play is at 12:30 on Wednesday, February 13th and is entitled Drinking Alone. Other matiness include Three Days of Rain on March 13th and Three Penny Opera on April 17th. Prior to each matinee the students meet with Ms. Browne who will discuss the upcoming plays with them, and at the end of each matinee the students will have a question and answer session with the directors, actors, and technical people from each play.
This week Tibor Feheregyhazia, the artistic director of the Persephone Theatre, will come to address the students in the club. Both the Persephone and we, at Mount Royal, are excited about this innovative endeavour and we hope to see it flourish.

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NEWS FROM THE LIBRARY
The Internet is now available to students at noon hour on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. The usual Internet rules apply:
a)A student must have signed the Internet Acceptable Use Agreement (see Mrs. Godin in the library any day before or after school to do this).
b) First come, first serve but school work has priority.
c) Student card or timetable required to be logged on.
c No e-mail or chat groups
d) Appropriate use is at the discretion of the supervisor.

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MOUNT ROYAL TEACHER RECEIVES LIFETIME AWARD

Teachers of Second Languages (TESL) Canada has presented Harlan Weidenhammer with a lifetime achievement award. TESL has established the following criteria for one to receive this award:* "The purpose of the award is to honour our"living national treasures", those among us who have made exemplary contributions to TESL in Canada."* We are looking for those outstanding individuals on whom we count for wise counsel and unfailing support, those who have shown leadership in both the workplace and the community in such areas of our involvement as academic, vocational, socio-cultural and linguistic instruction, cross cultural counselling, labour market access training, citizenship training and multicultural liaison".§ * Nominees must have provided outstanding service over a period of not less than 20 years."Mr. Weidenhammer's leadership and expertise has always been highly regarded by the ESL committee and they are extremely pleased that he has received this honour. Harlan is presently the chair of the TESL Canada conference being held in Regina in May, 2002. CONGRATULATIONS!

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REUNION

We are looking for all 20-year graduates for a reunion this summer. Please contact Paula Patola at 343-8860 to update your addresses or for more information.

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CHEM-FREE AFTERGRAD PARENT COMMITTEE

PRIZES! PRIZES! We need prizes. Can you, or your business, or your friends, donate money or any items of use to the Aftergrad party (give-aways, food, pop, etc)? Please call Mary at 382-6395, Nancy at 978-4610 (evenings) or Janet at 384-7613.

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PARENT COUNCIL

Mount Royal Parent Council would like to invite parents, guardians and students to attend any of our monthly meetings. Attending Parent Council provides an opportunity to receive first-hand information on what's happening at our school. We have a lot to be proud of and a number of upcoming events recognizing the uniqueness of Mount Royal. Join us and be informed.

Parent council Meetings: 7:00 pm - MRCI Library (Feb. 6th - New beginnings, March 6th - Regular, April 10th - Regular, May 1st - Annual General Meeting)

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COMMUNITY NEWS

HELP NEEDED IMMEDIATELY

Due to high demand, we are seeking additional volunteer families for Family-to-Family Ties, a rewarding and successful family friendship and mentoring program for Saskatoon families in need. This is an opportunity for your whole family to become involved.

Training and professional support is provided.
For more information call Terry, Trish or Shirley at Catholic Family Services at 244-7773.

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SASKATOON HEALTH DISTRICT

Is Breakfast Worth Eating?
Saskatoon District Health
Public Health Services
Breakfast is often called the most important meal of the day. For school children, it is especially important because:

A good breakfast includes food from at least 3 of the 4 food groups from Canada's Food Guide to Healthy Eating. However, breakfast does not have to include traditional foods such as cereal, toast, eggs or juice. Be creative and try different combinations like:

For more information, contact a Public Health Nutritionist at 655-4630.

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Minor Fastball

Zone 5 Minor Fastball is now accepting applications for coaches for the 2002 season. Divisions are "A" squirt, peewee, bantam - boys and girls. "BB" squirt, peewee, bantam - boys and girls. "BB" is a new division the Zone is sponsoring. The teams will operate the same as regular "B" teams, with the exception that the players will be selected based on skill level at tryouts. Our fall pitching and skills camps are filled to capacity and a thank you goes out to the Westview Community Association for helping with gym times. Watch for future notices for spring camps. For more information contact Shayne at 978-5232 or Kim at 382-2327.

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SCHOOL DATES TO REMEMBER

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On The Trail - December , 2001 (Back to Publication Main Menu)

Principal's Message SRC Report Wrestling Jr. Boys' Volleyball
Mustang Volley Sr. Football Bus Passes Wanted
MDA Student Profile HOME ECONOMICS Take Our Kids To Work Day
Remembrance Day A.C.T. NOW ISCF Did you Know?
Student Voices Found SADD One Step Further
CAP Site Blackstrap Race Club Youth Orchestra YMCA Christmas Break
Men's Chorus Gymnastics Anyone Center for Second Language Instruction
Community Dates School Dates

We would like to take this opportunity to extend best wishes to each of you as we approach the Christmas season, and thank you for the many contributions you have made to our school this fall.

Our school year has been one that has featured many activities and events and we continue to appreciate and recognize the commitment, involvement and successes of our students and staff. The Academic Excellence Assembly held this fall provided us with an opportunity to recognize the outstanding achievements of our students. We extend our congratulations to all recipients and thank the many parents and guests who attended this important event. As well, our Grade Nine students were involved in a "Take Our Kids To Work" program in November and feedback indicates that the students benefited greatly from the experience.

The Remembrance Day Program was held on November 9th and we want to sincerely thank students and staff who were involved in the ceremony. It was an excellent event and was well received by all those in attendance.

Our athletic teams and club activities continue to represent our school well and we thank the many students, staff and parents for contributing to a successful program. Special recognition is extended to our two silver championship teams, the Junior Boys' Volleyball team, and our Senior Boys' Football team. We are proud of the recognition your successes have brought to our school.

Congratulations are extended to all those involved in our annual Dinner Theatre. This outstanding event serves as an excellent way to feature our performing arts program. We continue to be impressed with the commitment provided by our staff and students, and the many talents that were on display. To the cast and crew of our musical production, Shrew, thanks for making this a memorable occasion for all.

We also had the opportunity to host two major athletic tournaments this fall, "Mustang Volley" and the "Royal Tip-Off Classic". Both events were well-organized and we extend our thanks to the hundreds of student and staff volunteers who were responsible for the success of these events. We want to also acknowledge the support provided by community businesses. Both of these events are among the best in the province.

One of our staff members was recently honored by his induction into the Saskatoon Sports Hall of Fame. Congratulations are extended to Mr. Faris on his well-deserved recognition.

It is our wish that the holiday season brings all of you a time to relax and an opportunity to spend time with family, friends and relatives.

Have a Merry Christmas and the best for 2002!

Brian Hilsen
Principal

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SRC REPORT
Wow! We're just about through the first semester and it feels like we just started! So many things have already happened. After a great start with Welcome Week, the SRC ran the Mustang Volley Pep Rally where Wilson and Tom Hanks (a.k.a. Mr. Paul Janzen) made an appearance for us. We would like to thank the Mustangs for showing great school spirit during our Monster Bash on Hallowe'en. We had pumpkin carving, candy floss, a costume competition, games and "la piece de resistance", the Haunted House! Next year will be even better, so we'll see you there! We'd like to welcome two new SRC members: our Grade 9 representatives, Vicki Bridgewater and Jenna Graham. So many great people applied and we hope they'll try again next year.
The SRC always holds a one-day retreat to work on team building and this year we went to the Travelodge on November 16th. It was a wonderful time. So many things are happening this year. Watch for Miranda Gurel's school reports every week in the Star Phoenix. The SRC will be hosting another Battle of the Sexes just before our Royal Classic Pep Rally and Christmas dance. It's all happening in December - see you then!

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WRESTLING

MUSTANG WRESTLING kicked off another exciting season started on December 5th. It commenced a bit earlier this year in order to squeeze more practice time into the schedule. The team will be divided into two squads: a Junior team comprised of Grade 9's and 10's, and a Senior Team comprised of Grade 11's and Grade 12's. Practice times for the Junior Team will be over the noon hour, except for the first two weeks of practice (3:30). The Senior team will practice at 3:30. The first meet is on December 15th. Duals begin at E.D. Feehan on the 18th of December, and Holy Cross will be here on the 20th. This is the first year that Mount Royal will have a female wrestling team!
We are expecting this to be another exciting year because as the city champs, we will be the team to beat! Students interested can touch base with Mr. Hanke or Mr. McDonald.

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MUSTANG JUNIOR BOYS' VOLLEYBALL
This year's edition of the Mustangs proved right off the bat that they were the team to beat on the West Side in Junior Boys' Volleyball. Only one problem - the St. Joseph's dynasty. The Mustangs plowed through every team they met in the regular season while amassing a regular-season record of 27-1. The only game they lost all year was in a two-game match that they split with St. Joe's. They then won the City Park Invitational tournament in an undefeated day of ball. All this success put the boys in good stead for the playoffs. The Junior "Stangs" walked through their pool in the semi-finals, again not losing a single game. This set up the inevitable showdown with the Guardians in the finals.

At the finals, the boys came back to beat St. Joseph in the opening match of the round-robin, coming right down to a 15-13 win in the third and deciding game. Then the match everyone had anticipated all season approached. Playing before a large crowd of nervous parents, the Mustangs fought hard, but could not pull off the big comeback a second time. The St. Joe's team got on a roll that the Mustangs could not snap, and won the match 27-26, 25-23.

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MUSTANG VOLLEY
Mustang Volley was once again a huge success and reaffirmed itself as one of the premier tournaments in Western Canada. The girls' title went to Prince Albert Carlton with St. Joseph's second and Aden Bowman third. The boys' title went to Prince Albert St. Mary with Swan Valley, Manitoba second, and Prince Albert Carlton third. The huge commitment of the students and staff on the organizing committee, and the volunteers, continue to make Mustang Volley something special. The three senior student leaders: Melissa Hamm, Kelly Hamm and Kara Marcal deserve a special pat on the back for their contributions over the past three years.
The Jeff's Crest Wear tournament Allstar teams were:

GIRLS SCHOOL BOYS SCHOOL
Kelly McInness Weyburn Stephan Chelsom Carlton
Trisha Miazga St. Joe's Chris Simair St. Mary
Leah Guidinger Carlton Dan Hall St. Mary
Christine Albers St. Joe's Adam Pearson St. Mary
Robin Van Dam St. Joe's Dave Mardell St. Mary
Tara Cote Aden Bowman Cole Armstrong Swift Current
M.V.P. Erica Buettner Carlton M.V.P. Dan Andres Swan Valley, Man

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SENIOR FOOTBALL
The senior football team had an outstanding season this year. The team made it all the way to the city finals before losing in the last minute of the game to E.D. Feehan. Highlights of the year included upsetting Evan Hardy, who was undefeated, in the quarter-final game and defeating Bedford Road twice during the season. The team would like to thank students and parents for their support throughout the season.

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BUS PASSES
Effective January 1, 2002 BUS PASSES will be increased to $17.00 for subsidized, and $34.00 for non-subsidized.

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WANTED

"Retired" electric cash register for use in Life Skills/Work Study classroom. Contact Michelle at 683-7830.

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MDA
Grade 9 MDA students have experienced a very busy autumn between their studies, travels and fundraising.
It was a warm sunny autumn day when we set off for Shekinah. On October 10th we had the opportunity to work cooperatively and bond as a group. Students enjoyed wall climbing, life lines, initiative tasks and the famous flying fox. Thank you to our parents, Mrs. Truong and Mrs. Bell, for helping. A week later, students visited the University of Saskatchewan Museum of Antiquities. They saw reproductions of ancient art and mythology. That same morning, students tried some descriptive writing on the banks of the South Saskatchewan River.

Mr. Dewar, our Vice Principal, paid a visit to our classroom to do a power point presentation on sports in Ancient Rome and Greece. He shared pictures and personal stories of his travels there.Shelley Leedahl, a very well known Saskatoon author, provided a writing workshop on October 29th. Students worked side by side with her, as she encouraged their writing skills. It was a thrilling experience to work with such an accomplished author.On November 30th our young thespians will get a backstage tour of Persephone Theatre. After the tour, we will stay to enjoy the theatrical production of Annie.

On December 11th we will gain more drama experience as we visit the University of Saskatchewan Greystone Theatre. Mr. Dwayne Brenna, Dean of the College of Drama, will provide a two hour workshop. This will enrich our study of Romeo and Juliet.On December 19th students will see Romeo and Juliet on big screen/big sound! Bring popcorn!We end the 2001 year with a Medieval Feast on December 21st. Students are encouraged to dress the part and bring 12th Century food. We will eat, dance and end our Medieval/Elizabethan unit of work.As well as curricular activities, students have been fundraising. Thank you to the parents and community for buying popcorn, chocolates and Sunsweet products. On January 12th we hope to have a Bottle Drive. We will need trucks, drivers, etc. If you can help, contact Mr. May or Ms. Kwasnik-Senger at 683-7800.
Best wishes for the festive season from MDA 09

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MOUNT ROYAL STUDENT PROFILE

We have completed three surveys of the circumstances and opinions of our students. As we learned about the processes of writing and applying questionnaires, our purposes changed and each survey was different. Copies of our last survey are available at the main office.Now, we need to write a Student Profile that can be used for several years. It should be comprehensive, but not impossibly long. It must reflect the interests and values of staff, students and their families.

This is an invitation to you to suggest topics or questions that should be a part of the Mount Royal Student Survey. Please send us your suggestions. Drop them off at the main office or mail them to Mount Royal Collegiate, Student Profile, 2220 Rusholme Road, S7L 4A4, e-mail: MountRoyalSchool@spsd.sk.ca

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Take Our Kids To Work Day

On Wednesday, November 7th, 2001 the Grade 9 students took part in "Take Our Kids To Work Day". We would like to thank all the parents, guardians and extended family members who were able to accommodate their own children.We would also like to thank the following businesses and institutions which were able to take in students who could not find work day placements through their families: W.P. Bate Community School, Maggies Childcare Centre, Wanuskewin Heritage Park Gift Shop, Westmount Community School Pre- Kindergarten Program, Princess Alexandra Community School Pre-Kindergarten Program, Nestor's Bakery, John Dolan School, Friendship Inn, Medallion Pipe Supply, Saskatchewan Indian Cultural Centre, Security Building Supplies, Kihiw Crafts and Fashions, Buns Mastery Bakery, Saskatoon Police Service, Superior Millwork, Dean's Electrical Inc., and Confederation Park Community School.

Finally, we would like to thank the Saskatoon Nutana Rotary Club for providing breakfast and transportation to and from work placements arranged for those students who spent their day in the locations mentioned above. We appreciate the partnerships with these organizations and their interest in helping with the education of our youth.

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HOME ECONOMICS
Miss Langlois' Grade 9 Home Economics class started the Foods portion of their class on December 3rd. They have completed several projects in the sewing portion, including lunch bags, appliqué pillows, boxers, pyjamas pants and sweatshirts. Some students also made fleece mitts and toques!!

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REMEMBRANCE DAY PROGRAM
A Remembrance Day Program was held on Friday, November 9th to pay tribute to the many Canadian men and women who lost their lives during the wars of the last century. Ten members of the Maple Leaf Girls, as well as the Director of Education, Mr. Terry Pearson, were escorted into the gym by Cadets.
The Mount Royal Choir opened the program with O' Canada, followed by greetings and introductions by student hosts, Michelle Fisher and Nathan Perkins. The Mount Royal Choir, under the direction of Mr. Steer and Ms. Montalbetti, performed two selections - "Hymn to Freedom" and "Peace Canon". Lindsay Manning, Vicky Bridgewater, Nicholas Koupantsis, Terrell Fentiman, and Kevin Fisher read poetry while Gary Huang, Katrina Olson, Stacey Fisher and Miranda Gurel read excerpts from soldier's diaries.
Guest speaker, Neva Bayliss from the Maple Leaf Girls, shared memories from World War II. She enlisted as an 18 year old student and served in the Air Force. She remembered many good times during her service on the West coast.
A touching video prepared by Mr. Bond, Memories of War, was followed by the laying of the wreath. The choir finalized the program with "Amazing Grace". Guests were escorted out by Cadets. Light and sound was provided by the Audio Visual crew. We continue to remember the contributions of Canadian men and women who fought for our freedom and democracy.

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NEWS FROM THE ANTI-RACIST CROSS-CULTURAL CLUB - A.C.T. NOW
Human Rights Day
Monday, December 10th, 2001
"Holding Human Rights In Our Hands!"
On Monday, December 10th we want to recognize Human Rights Day in a unique way. We want the entire staff/student body to hold hands in the hallway during part of period 5 to recognize Human Rights Day.
What does this day mean? The Universal Declaration of Human Rights was accepted by the United Nations on December 10th, 1948. The purpose is to promote and encourage respect for human rights and for fundamental freedoms for all without distinction as to race, sex, language and religion.

Growing international awareness, fostered by mass communications, has heightened the sense of urgency for respect of human rights. Thousands of individuals and citizens' groups around the world are fighting for their rights and freedoms. United Nations actions for human rights continue, yet millions of people around the world suffer some serious violation or deprivation of their basic rights and freedoms - everything from torture, rape and corrupt judicial systems to bonded labour, hunger and lack of access to health services, housing, sanitation and water. Will there ever be a global culture of human rights?

The global quest for commitment to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights involves everyone. The campaign relies heavily on thousands of dedicated individuals and citizens' groups who often risk their lives for the cause. Increased involvement in the defense of human rights helps to build an environment where freedom and dignity are expected and respected. It is up to each and every one of us - from Presidents and Prime Ministers to business executives, farmers and students - to work toward this dream.

We want to do something at Mount Royal that is unique and has never been done before. We want the entire staff/student body to hold hands and make one long line weaving through the hallways of the entire school! We are calling it, "Holding Human Rights in Our Hands".

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INTERSCHOOL CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

This active student club meets each Tuesday at noon in Room 243. The purpose of the club is "to know Jesus Christ and make Him known". Thank you to students and staff for contributions to the Christmas Child Project - several gift boxes were assembled and delivered. Several speakers and videos have been focal points at some of the meetings. All students are welcome to be a part of I.S.C.F. and to explore the Christian faith.

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DID YOU KNOW
… that Grade 12 Mustangs, Logan Hoehn, Devin Hyde and Nickolas Koupantsis, have been invited to become members of the prestigious Greystone Scholars Society at the University of Saskatchewan?

… that Mount Royal now offers computer services in the library over the lunch hour? Mr. Robertson supervises the area from 12:00 to 1:00 P.M. while the students work on their projects, access the internet and enjoy themselves over the noon hour. The usual guidelines for acceptable use of the Internet apply.

… on Friday, November 30th 120 students and staff went to the play, Thunderstick, staged by Saskatchewan Native Theatre Company. It was a great experience for everyone.

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STUDENT VOICES
Student voices is a group of students who come together to voice their opinions, share their ideas and help make positive changes at "Royal". This group meets every Tuesday from noon until 1:00 in room 232.

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FOUND

Mount Royal Collegiate girls school ring, with blue stone. Must identify at the main office by specifying school year and engraved initials.

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STUDENTS AGAINST DRINKING AND DRIVING

STUDENTS AGAINST DRINKING AND DRIVING have invited Mrs. Depuis to an assembly on Wednesday, February 6th during the morning. All students will attend. This "reality-based" presentation is an hour-long tribute to the life and death of Danae Ashton Grace Dupuis. Sixteen year old, Danae, was the front seat passenger, killed in a drunk driving collision on October 3rd. On March 5th, 2001 the official release of Danae's Song was presented at her high school, Marion M. Graham Collegiate. It was performed live and guest speakers consisting of family and Danae's closest friend, shared their different perspectives of her death and how it personally affected them. The public awareness presentation was such a success that the program was expanded. The effect is phenomenal as Danae's mom, sister, cousin and friend reach out to share their survivor stories. Shelagh (local paramedic and vice-president of MADD) emcees the program. To read more about Danae's life, see Website www.danaessong.homestead.com.

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ONE STEP FURTHER …
The paradox of our time in history is that we have taller buildings, but shorter tempers; wider freeways, but narrower viewpoints; we spend more, but have less; we buy more, but enjoy it less. We have bigger houses and smaller families; more conveniences, but less time; we have more degrees, but less sense; more knowledge, but less judgement; more experts, but fewer solutions; more medicine, but less wellness.We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values. We talk too much, love too seldom, and hate too often. We've learned how to make a living, but not a life; we've added years to life, not life to years. We've been all the way to the moon and back, but have trouble crossing the street to meet the new neighbour. We've conquered outer space, but not inner space; we've cleaned up the air, but polluted the soul; we've split the atom but not our prejudice. We have higher incomes, but lower morals; we've become long on quantity, but short on quality. These are the times of tall men, and short character; steep profits, and shallow relationships. We have more leisure, but less fun; more kinds of food, but less nutrition. These are days of two incomes, but more divorce; of fancier houses, but broken homes. It is a time when there is much in the show window and nothing in the stockroom.

Written by a high school student,
name unknown.

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Community Access Program Site

Mount Royal Collegiate is designated as a Community Access Program Site by Industry Canada.

As a CAP site, parents, families, community members and students have free access to the computers and Internet service provided in the CAP site lab at Mount Royal Collegiate. The goal of CAP is to give everyone access to computers and the Internet so that all residents may use, and benefit from, "the information highway".
Mount Royal's CAP Site will be open to the public Monday through Friday from 12:00 noon to 4:00 P.M. On Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays there is an instructor at the site from 12:00 to 1:30 P.M. to teach computer basics, word processing, Internet searches, E-mail, resume writing and job search strategies.
Anyone wishing to use the CAP site is asked to book an appointment with the secretary in Student Services at 683-7825. The CAP site is located on the main floor near the Student Services office (please enter through the front doors of the school). Hope to see you in our building using the CAP Computers.
For further information contact Nina Henry at 683-7822.

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Blackstrap Race Club

Blackstrap Race Club is offering the Nancy Greene downhill ski leagues (ages 5-13) and a competitive race program (11-19) every winter week-end from December through March at Blackstrap Winter Sports Park. For more information, contact Karen at 249-0751.

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Saskatoon Youth Orchestra

The Saskatoon Youth Orchestra provides a full orchestra experience for young musicians who have studied seriously on their instrument for a period of time. The Double Bass Program is a training program for bassists. There are openings for beginner students who wish to learn to play the double bass. Prospective students should have musical ability and be serious about studying the instrument. Instruments will be supplied for a nominal rental fee to a limited number of applicants. Please call 955-6336 for detailed information.

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YWCA Christmas Break
Day Camps
For Kids 6-12
Stay active and enjoy the school break with your friends at the YWCA. Activities include swimming, gym games, sports, outdoor games and activities (weather permitting), crafts and much, much more! All Camps are from 9:00 A.M. until 5:00 P.M.
December 27th & 28th, $25.00 for each day or $40.00 for both days. December 31st, January 2-5, $25.00 for each day or $80.00 for all days. Register by calling 244-0944 or stop by the front desk.

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SASKATOON MEN'S CHORUS

SASKATOON MEN'S CHORUS invites you to join them on Saturday, Dec. 15th at 7:30 P.M. at they celebrate the Christmas season with a choral concert of traditional and contemporary carols. Special guests for this concert will be Zodiac Tapestry. The concert will take place at Knox United Church under the direction of Gary Gullickson. Tickets may be purchased in advance for $10.00 at McNally Robinson Booksellers, Darren's Music Place, or any member of the Saskatoon Men's Chorus. Tickets will also be available at the door for $12.00. Children under 12 will be admitted free of charge.

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GYMNASTICS ANYONE?
Taiso Gymnastics offers birthday parties and a drop-in preschool gym. Call 664-7030 to check it out.

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CENTRE FOR SECOND LANGUAGE INSTRUCTION
Tel: 966-4351
Classes offered as a second language in French, German, Japanese, Ukrainian, Spanish, Mandarin and Italian, beginning January 14th.

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Community Dates

Community Dates to Mark on Your Calendar

March 15th - June 2nd , 2002 - Mendel Art Gallery Student Art Show

March 22nd - March 24th, 2002 - Flicks Film Festival

June 4th - June 8th, 2002 - Northern Saskatchewan Children's Festival

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School Dates to Remember
Dec. 12th - Aftergrad Committee Meeting - 7:00 P.M. LRC March 21st - Parent Teacher Interviews; 6:30 - 9:30 P.M
Dec. 21st - Last Day of Classes before Christmas Holidays March 22nd - Parent/Teacher Interviews; 1:30 - 3:30 P.M, NO SCHOOL
Jan. 7th - School Resumes March 29th - Good Friday
Jan. 18th - Extended Period 1 Exams April 1st- 5th - Spring Vacation
Jan. 21st - Extended Period 2 Exams May 20th - Victoria Day Holiday
Jan. 22nd - Extended Period 3 Exams June 14th - Extended Period 1 Exams
Jan. 23rd - Extended Period 4 Exams June 17th - Extended Period 2 Exams
Jan. 24th - Extended Period 5 Exams June 18th - Extended Period 3 Exams
Jan. 25th - Semester 1 Ends - NO SCHOOL June 19th - Extended Period 4 Exams
Jan. 28th - NO SCHOOL June 20th - Extended Period 5 Exams
Jan. 29th - Semester II Begins June 26th - Last Day of School for Students
Feb. 18th - 29th -Teachers' Convention and Institute June 28th - Last Day of School for Staff
Feb. 20th - 22nd - Mid-term Break  

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