Dear NHS Students, Families, and Community,
Welcome to the 2026–2027 school year!
Whether you are new to NHS or returning for another year, we are very glad you are here.
Last year, our school focused on two guiding priorities: Culture and Community. Those priorities continue this year as we work to make NHS a place where students feel known, supported, challenged, and proud to belong.
The purpose of this communication is to communicate all pertinent information with you to start the school year on the best possible footing. We will communicate in more detail as the school year starts and we encourage you to pay attention to these newsletters to the best of your ability.
Our vision remains:
Where Everything CLICKS.
Culture. Legacy. Inspiration. Community. Knowledge. Success.
Thank you for partnering with us. Strong schools are built when students, families, staff, and community work together.
Welcome to Our New Staff
Please join us in welcoming:
- Mr. David Brown – Math & Science
- Mrs. Mallory Fafard – Physical Education, Science and Life Works
- Mrs. Amy Smith – English Language Arts
- Mr. Mark Klassen – Humanities, ICT and Personal Finance
- Mrs. Bella Giesbrecht – School Secretary
We are excited to have them join the NHS team.
Starting the Year Strong
A new school year is a fresh start.
We encourage students to focus on a few simple habits:
- Show up
- Be on time
- Stay engaged
- Ask for help early
- Be kind and respectful
Families can help by checking in regularly about attendance, learning, and how school is going.
Please reach out to us if something is getting in the way of your child’s success. We would rather work together early than wait until a concern becomes bigger.
Attendance Matters
Regular attendance has a major impact on learning, confidence, and a student’s sense of belonging.
Students who miss class also miss explanations, discussions, practice, feedback, and connection with teachers and peers.
Our goal is to communicate early and supportively when absences begin to add up.
What families can expect:
- 3 absences – Teacher contact
- 5 absences – School attendance notification
- 6 absences – Teacher follow-up
- 9 absences – Teacher follow-up
- 10 absences – Parent/caregiver meeting and attendance support plan
At 10 absences in a course, a student is considered chronically absent.
If attendance continues to increase without a support plan in place, additional Student Services supports may become involved.
Our purpose is not to blame families or students. It is to understand what may be happening and work together on solutions.
Please continue to report absences through the Parent Portal, phone, or email.
School Day Schedule
9:00 – Announcements
9:00–10:05 – Period 1
10:10–11:15 – Period 2
11:20–12:25 – Period 3
12:25–1:25 – Lunch
1:25–2:30 – Period 4
2:35–3:40 – Period 5
3:40 – Dismissal / Busses
Students follow a six-day cycle. Current cycle information is available on our website.
Course Changes
Course changes will be limited as many classes are at or near capacity.
Students should continue attending their current classes until a change has been officially approved.
Last day for course changes: Wednesday, September 16
Students needing support should connect with our Guidance Department as early as possible.
Meet the Teacher
Thursday, September 17 | 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Please join us for an informal evening to meet teachers and connect with our staff.
No appointments are necessary.
Athlete & Parent Meeting | 7:30–8:30 p.m.
Families of students participating in NHS athletics are strongly encouraged to attend.
Coaches will review expectations, schedules, communication, fees, and other important information.
A Few Important Reminders
Cell Phones
Phones must be stored away during instructional time unless directed otherwise by a teacher. Phones are permitted during lunch and breaks. Cell phones are not permitted in school washrooms/changerooms. Please see the attached reference to our school cellphone policy.
Vaping & Smoking
Not permitted in the school, on school grounds, or at school events. Please see attached Fair Notice regarding Addressing Concerns of Vaping in School and on School Grounds.
Parking
Students must use designated student parking areas and always drive safely.
Lockers
Students must use school-issued locks and keep combinations private.
Full policies are available at nhs.hsd.ca.
Fees & Supplies
School supply and course-fee information is available through the website and Parent Portal.
Key fees include:
- Chromebook Insurance – $30
- Student Activity Fee – $10
Additional course and extracurricular fees may be added throughout the school year.
Please contact the office if you have questions or need support.
Stay Connected
Our website, nhs.hsd.ca, is the best place for current school information.
The HSD Parent Portal provides access to:
- Attendance
- Timetables
- Report cards
- Fees
- Permission forms
- Contact information
Please log in early in September to:
- Confirm student and emergency contact information
- Complete annual permission forms
- Review your child’s timetable
- Complete Chromebook and technology agreements
If you need help accessing the Parent Portal, please contact the school office.
Important September Dates
- Monday, September 7 – Labour Day – No School
- Tuesday, September 8 – Admin / PD Day – No Classes
- Wednesday, September 9 – Admin Day – No Classes
- Thursday, September 10 – First Day of School – Grade 9 Only (Pizza Lunch for all Students)
- Friday, September 11 – First Day for Grades 10–12 – All Students Attend
- Wednesday, September 16 – Last Day for Course Changes
- Thursday, September 17 – Meet the Teacher – 5:30–7:30 p.m.
- Thursday, September 17 – Athlete & Parent Meeting – 7:30–8:30 p.m.
- Friday, September 18 – Picture Day
- Monday, September 21 – PD Day – No Classes
- Wednesday, September 30 – National Day for Truth and Reconciliation – No School
Final Word
To our students: you belong here.
Try something new. Ask questions. Get involved. Work hard. Support one another.
To our families: thank you for trusting us and for continuing to communicate with us. Please reach out when you have questions, concerns, or celebrations to share.
Together, we will continue building a strong school culture and community where students can learn, grow, and shape their own legacy.
Welcome to the 2026–2027 school year.
Yours in education,
Paul Grosskopf Holly Anderson
Principal Vice Principal / Learning Support Teacher
in: Uncategorized