Dear NHS Families and Students,
“The more grateful we are, the more beauty we see.” – Mary Davis
As we step into December, it’s hard not to pause and reflect with gratitude. This time of year reminds us of the importance of connection – with one another, with our community, and with the learning that brings us together.
Here at Niverville High School, we have much to be thankful for: our incredible students who bring energy and creativity to every day, our staff who care deeply about student growth, and our families who partner with us in meaningful ways to make NHS a place where everyone belongs.
Together, we continue to live out our guiding stars – Culture and Community – by fostering respect, empathy, and shared purpose.
A Season of Gratitude and Celebration
The holiday season always brings moments that remind us of what makes this school community so special.
Our Christmas Concert on Monday, December 8 (7:00–8:30 p.m.) will showcase the hard work and talent of our students in music and performing arts. We warmly invite all families, caregivers, and community members to join us for this evening of celebration and connection.
We are also proud to host the John Kipe Varsity Boys Basketball Tournament on Friday, December 12 and Saturday, December 13 – another great opportunity to cheer on our student-athletes and celebrate teamwork, sportsmanship, and school spirit.
Staying Engaged: Learning Continues Through December
While December brings concerts and community spirit, it’s also a time for focus and preparation. As we near the end of the semester, students will begin reviewing for January assessment days and provincial exams.
We encourage families to help students stay organized, maintain routines, and find balance between school and rest. Even during the busy holiday season, small habits – reading, reflection, and goal setting – keep learning momentum strong.
The Importance of Assessment Days
As shared in November, Assessment Days/Final Exams (January 26-30) are an essential part of our academic year. These days are dedicated to culminating exams, projects, and demonstrations of learning that help students consolidate their understanding and show what they’ve achieved over the semester.
We ask families to avoid booking holidays or appointments during this week. Missing assessment days has a direct impact on student learning and teacher capacity, especially as our school community continues to grow.
Here’s why attendance matters:
- Fairness and Equity: With over 430 students and complex schedules, accommodating absences for some and not others creates inequity. A consistent approach ensures fairness for all learners.
- Academic Continuity: Missing key assessments can interrupt a student’s academic progress and limit opportunities for feedback and growth.
- Teacher Workload: Rescheduling assessments means lost instructional time and additional supervision – making it harder for teachers to provide the same quality of support to everyone.
- Life Preparation: Assessment weeks build skills that students will rely on in post-secondary studies and the workplace: meeting deadlines, managing stress, and demonstrating responsibility.
In short, attending assessment days/final exams is an expectation, not an option – and it helps prepare students for success beyond high school.
📊 Did You Know?
Students who attend all assessment days are 12–15% more likely to meet or exceed grade-level expectations.
Consistent attendance at exams and final projects also correlates with higher confidence and lower anxiety entering Semester 2. Every day matters – especially these ones!
Important Dates to Remember
December
- Monday, December 8 – Christmas Concert 7:00–8:30 p.m. in NHS Gym
- Friday, December 12 – Saturday, December 13 – John Kipe Varsity Boys Basketball Tournament (NHS)
- Friday, December 19 – Last Day of Classes before Christmas Break
- Monday, December 22 – Friday, January 2 – Christmas Break (no school)
January
- Tuesday, January 6 – Friday, January 9 – Grade 12 Provincial ELA Exam
- Tuesday, January 20 – Grade 12 Provincial Applied Math Exam
- Wednesday, January 21 – Grade 12 Provincial Essential Math Exam
- Thursday, January 22 – Grade 12 Provincial Pre-Calculus Math Exam
- Friday, January 23 – Last Day of Classes – Semester 1
- Friday, January 23 – Saturday, January 24 – JV Boys Basketball Tournament (NHS)
- Monday, January 26 – Friday, January 30 – Assessment Days / Final Exams
- Thursday, January 29 (MPR) – Art Show 6:00–8:00 p.m.
Looking Ahead
- Monday, February 2 – PD Day (no classes)
- Tuesday, February 3 – Semester 2 Begins
- Friday, February 6 – Report Cards Issued
- Thursday, February 12 – Winter Activity Day
Staying Connected and Informed
If you haven’t already, please ensure you have access to the HSD Parent Portal – your go-to hub for report cards, attendance, fees, and permission forms.
If you encounter login issues, please contact the school office, and we will be happy to assist you.
Communication remains one of our guiding values at NHS. Whether it’s questions about your child’s progress, school events, or ways to get involved, please reach out. We want to partner with you to ensure every student is supported and thriving.
A Final Word of Gratitude
As we close out 2025, I want to express deep appreciation for our students, staff, and families.
Your continued care, encouragement, and commitment make NHS a vibrant place of learning, belonging, and growth.
On behalf of our entire staff, I wish you a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a joyful New Year. May the season bring you peace, connection, and moments of rest.
We look forward to an exciting start to 2026, filled with new learning and continued partnership.
With appreciation and warmth,
Paul Grosskopf Holly Anderson
Principal Vice Principal
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