WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2026
DAYS OF SIGNIFICANCE
Islamic New Year: The first month (Muharram) of the lunar Islamic calendar
TODAY’S NEWS
Attention Grade 12’s: if you have purchased a prom ticket online, you can pick up your ticket in room 2012 from Mrs. Gorman, you do not need the ticket to get into prom.
Indigenous People’s History:
Terry Felix is a member of the Sts’ailes (CHEH-lis) First Nation from British Columbia and is recognized as a trailblazer in Canadian soccer. In 1983, he made history as the first Indigenous professional soccer player in North America and the first Indigenous athlete to play for Canada’s national men’s team. Starting his career later than many athletes, Felix rose quickly through local leagues before being recruited by the Vancouver Whitecaps, where he competed at the professional level. After his playing career was cut short by injury, he continued to give back to his community by coaching, organizing youth programs, and supporting Indigenous participation in soccer. His legacy continues to inspire Indigenous athletes by showing that perseverance and talent can break barriers in professional sports.
TUESDAY, JUNE 16, 2026
TODAY’S NEWS
Indigenous People’s History:
Blake Angeconeb (AN-juh-koh-neb) is an Anishinaabe woodlands artist from Lac Seul First Nation in Treaty 3 territory whose creative journey began unexpectedly during a painting session with his young niece. What started as a casual experience quickly developed into a full-time artistic career, driven by his natural talent and passion for storytelling through visual art. Working primarily with acrylics and mixed media on canvas, Angeconeb blends traditional Woodlands art styles with contemporary influences, including elements of pop culture. As a self-taught artist, he has built a diverse body of work ranging from small to large-scale pieces and frequently collaborates with other artists. As a member of the Caribou Clan, his art reflects both cultural pride and a modern interpretation of Anishinaabe identity.
MONDAY, JUNE 15, 2026
TODAY’S NEWS
Indigenous People’s History:
Logan Staats is a Mohawk musician from Six Nations of the Grand River who has become known for blending rock, folk, and soul music with honest storytelling and powerful vocals. He began his musical journey performing on the streets of Brantford, Ontario, relying on natural talent, a strong ear, and heartfelt lyrics rather than formal training. After gaining local recognition, he released his debut album Goodbye Goldia in 2015, which showcased his raw acoustic style. Staats reached a wider audience in 2018 when he won the first season of CTV’s The Launch, leading to increased commercial success and opportunities to tour across North America and Europe. Today, he continues to create music that reflects his experiences and identity while representing Indigenous artistry on mainstream stages.
PROM: Heads up grads, the deadline to purchase your prom ticket is Tuesday night, if you completed a guest form they are on your school cash online. Any questions can be directed to Mrs. Gorman. Tickets can be picked up Wednesday in room 2012.
LOST & FOUND:
Please visit the tables in the hallway outside the Phys Ed office for any lost & found items, including water bottles, coats, shoes, mitts, gloves shirts. BUT jewelry, phones, eyeglasses, earbuds, etc are in the main office.
THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2026
DAYS OF SIGNIFICANCE: World Day Against Child Labour: The World Day brings together governments, employers and workers organizations, civil society, as well as millions of people from around the world to highlight the plight of child labourers and what can be done to help them.
LOST & FOUND:
Please visit the tables in the hallway outside the Phys Ed office for any lost & found items, including water bottles, coats, shoes, mitts, gloves shirts. BUT jewelry, phones, eyeglasses, earbuds, etc are in the main office.
ELECTIONS: Today is election day for Student Council Grade 10, 11, and 12 reps. Elections will take place during period 1 homeroom TODAY. Good luck to all of the candidates!!
Indigenous People’s History:
Sheila North is a respected Cree leader, journalist, and advocate from northern Manitoba who has played a key role in raising awareness about Indigenous issues in Canada. As the former Grand Chief of Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) (keh-WAY-tin-oh-ee oh-kih-mah-kah-nak), she represented northern First Nations and worked to address challenges such as housing, mental health, and missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. North has also used her background in media to amplify Indigenous voices and stories, helping to educate the public and challenge stereotypes. Through her leadership and advocacy, she continues to promote Indigenous rights, resilience, and self-determination.
Illustrated Anthology: We are selling copies of this year's Illustrated Anthology for anyone interested in snagging a copy! The Illustrated Anthology is a curated collection of student art and writing in a 32-page full-colour printed booklet. Cost is $5 cash to Mrs. Diamond in the main office or to Mrs. Dunn in the art room. Thank you for supporting the arts department! Students who have art and writing featured in the book are to see Mrs. Dunn in the art room for their free copy!
THURSDAY, JUNE 11, 2026
TODAY’S NEWS
LOST & FOUND: Please visit the 6 tables in the hallway outside the Phys Ed office for any lost & found items, including water bottles, coats, shoes, mitts, gloves shirts. BUT jewelry, phones, eyeglasses, earbuds, etc are in the main office.
ELECTIONS:
Student Council Elections will take place during homeroom on Friday, June 12.
To learn more about the candidates, check your graduating class Guidance Google Classroom page to watch their campaign videos. You can also see their campaign posters in the main hallway before voting. Cast your vote this Friday!
Indigenous People’s History:
Autumn Peltier is an Anishinaabe youth activist from Wiikwemkoong (WEE-kweh-mih-kong) First Nation who is internationally recognized as a powerful advocate for clean water and Indigenous rights. Known as a “water protector,” she has spoken at global forums such as the United Nations, calling attention to the lack of safe drinking water in many Indigenous communities. Peltier’s work emphasizes the sacred relationship between people and water, while encouraging action and accountability from governments. Through her leadership and public speaking, she inspires youth across the world to stand up for the environment and Indigenous sovereignty.
Trivia Club: One final meeting for Trivia club is happening today, if you are interested in trivia or expanding your worldly knowledge, come out to room 2029 at lunch.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 10, 2026
ELECTIONS: Student Council Elections will take place during homeroom on Friday, June 12. To learn more about the candidates, check your graduating class Guidance Google Classroom page to watch their campaign videos. You can also see their campaign posters in the main hallway before voting. Cast your vote this Friday!
Indigenous People’s History:
James Jones, known online as Notorious Cree, is a Cree dancer, educator, and activist who uses social media to share and celebrate Indigenous culture. Through powwow dancing videos and educational content on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, he helps teach audiences about regalia, traditions, and the meaning behind Indigenous dances. His work challenges stereotypes and promotes cultural pride by making Indigenous knowledge accessible to a global audience. As an advocate, he also uses his platform to address important social issues and uplift Indigenous voices, especially among youth.
June Assembly: Hopefully everyone has had a chance to check the list to see if you are receiving an award today at the assembly. Winners will be called down early out of period 2.
Art Club: Art club is meeting today after school in room 1073.
Illustrated Anthology: We are selling copies of this year's Illustrated Anthology for anyone interested in snagging a copy! The Illustrated Anthology is a curated collection of student art and writing in a 32-page full-colour printed booklet. Cost is $5 cash to Mrs. Diamond in the main office or to Mrs. Dunn in the art room. Thank you for supporting the arts department! Students who have art and writing featured in the book are to see Mrs. Dunn in the art room for their free copy!
Spartans for Christ will be meeting today at lunch for our final gathering of the year. We will be meeting in Gym C for games and lunch.
TUESDAY, JUNE 9, 2026
Indigenous People’s History:
Angeline Boulley is an enrolled member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians. She is a storyteller who writes about her Ojibwe community in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. She is a former Director of the Office of Indian Education at the U.S. Department of Education. Her bestselling novel Firekeeper’s Daughter highlights Ojibwe culture, community, and identity while addressing serious issues such as justice, belonging, and resilience. Drawing on her background in education, Boulley creates authentic, complex Indigenous characters that challenge stereotypes and reflect real experiences. Through her writing, she helps increase representation in literature and provides Indigenous youth with stories in which they can see themselves.
Spartans!! Student Council Elections will take place during homeroom on Friday, June 12: To learn more about the candidates, check your graduating class Guidance Google Classroom page to watch their campaign videos. You can also see their campaign posters in the main hallway before voting. Cast your vote this Friday!
June Assembly
The list of award winners is up! All students should check the posted list outside the office to see if they are receiving an award. Award winners will be called down early for the assembly on Wednesday. Check the list!
RECYCLING
Please have a student from your class bring down and empty the Blue (Cans/Bottles) bin. The Big Blue recycling bins will be located in front of the Caretakers Office. Please remember to dump the recycling into the bin and return with it to class and not leave it in front of the Custodian’s office.
Please place your grey bin outside your classroom door to be collected throughout the day.
MONDAY, JUNE 8, 2026
DAYS OF SIGNIFICANCE
Born in Trinidad, Richard Fung is a Toronto based video artist, writer, public intellectual and theorist. He is a Professor in the Faculty of Art at OCAD University, teaching courses in Integrated Media and Art and Social Change. His work consists of challenging videos on subjects ranging from the role of the gay Asian male to colonialism, immigration, racism, homophobia, AIDS, justice in Israel/Palestine, and his own family history. In 2015, he received the Kessler Award from the Center for LGBTQ Studies at the City University of New York for his influence in the field of LGBTQ Studies.
TODAY’S NEWS
ELECTIONS:
Spartans!! Student Council Elections will take place during homeroom on Friday, June 12.
To learn more about the candidates, check your graduating class Guidance Google Classroom page to watch their campaign videos. You can also see their campaign posters in the main hallway before voting. Cast your vote this Friday!
Indigenous People’s History:
Seeing Red (Indigenous News): Seeing Red is an Indigenous-led digital media platform that shares news, stories, and perspectives centered on Indigenous communities. Through social media and online content, it highlights issues such as Indigenous rights, environmental protection, cultural revitalization, and social justice. Seeing Red plays an important role in amplifying voices that are often underrepresented in mainstream media, while also educating audiences about current events and historical contexts impacting Indigenous peoples. By combining activism with accessible storytelling, the platform helps foster awareness, advocacy, and community connection.
June Assembly
The list of award winners is up! All students should check the posted list outside the office to see if they are receiving an award. Award winners will be called down early for the assembly on Wednesday. Check the list!
Art club: art club is meeting in room 1073 today after school.
Illustrated Anthology: Attention students who submitted writing or art! The anthology has arrived and is ready for pickup! See Mrs Dunn in the art room to get your copy.
Track and Field: The Track and Field Team concluded its season in style at the OFSAA Championships over the weekend. Savannah Rodgers posted two personal bests that earned her GOLD in Discus, and SILVER in Shot Put. Savannah’s OFSAA Gold medal is the first for Westlane in 25 years! On the track, Musab Messiah claimed his first OFSAA medal placing 3rd in the 400m. Musab was also just off the podium in the 200m where he finished 5th. Messiah, Colby, and Max battled the hot and windy conditions and had excellent performances as well. We are looking forward to following the achievements of these athletes and the rest of the team next season!
FRIDAY, JUNE 5, 2026
DAYS OF SIGNIFICANCE
WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY: World Environment Day is the United Nations' principal vehicle for encouraging awareness and action for the protection of the environment.
National Access Ability Week: This month recognizes and acknowledges: • the valuable contributions of Canadians with disabilities • the accomplishments of individuals, communities and workplaces to remove barriers to accessibility and inclusion, and • the ongoing work we all have to do to counter discrimination against persons with disabilities and promote a culture of inclusion.
TODAY’S NEWS
The last TECH BBQ of the year is TODAY@ lunch. Bring your appetite
June Awards Assembly
The list of award winners is up! All students should check the posted list outside the office to see if they are receiving an award. Award winners will be called down early for the assembly on Wednesday. Be sure to check the list!
GUIDANCE:
Volunteer opportunity: Weather permitting there is a clean up at Fireman’s park Saturday from 9am to noon check in with Mr. Brockwell.
THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2026
DAYS OF SIGNIFICANCE
Jim Egan is a prominent Canadian 2SLGBTQ+ rights activist, known widely for his role in the landmark Supreme Court of Canada case Egan v. Canada and as an advocate for equal rights and the fight against unjust portrayal of the LGBTQ community in the media. His more public work in activism began in the year
1949 when he began to write into newspapers, letters to the editor, and publications under a pseudonym in order to provide a more positive account and portrayal of Gays and Lesbians in the media. Originally, he did this without community support, as there was little visibility in the 1950s due to societal homophobia that could lead to rampant discrimination involving employment, healthcare, and housing
TODAY’S NEWS
Indigenous People’s History:
Shawnee Kish is a Multi JUNO-nominated Two-Spirit Indigenous country artist whose powerful vocals and fearless songwriting have established her as one of Canada’s most compelling and rapidly rising voices. A 2026 JUNO Award nominee for Contemporary Indigenous Artist of the Year, she continues to gain national recognition while carving out a bold presence in the country music landscape.
EduCon2026 Field Trip: Please meet Ms. Devereux at the Bus Doors near the Music Room at 9:30 AM to load the bus!
TECH
The last TECH BBQ of the year is this FRIDAY @ lunch. Bring your appetite!
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2026
During Pride Month, it's important to celebrate and respect the diversity in our school. One big part of this is understanding and using pronouns correctly. Pronouns are more than just words - they show who we are. Using the right pronouns for someone is a way to show them respect and support, no matter their gender identity. Some people might use pronouns like they/them or ze/zir instead of he/him or she/her. By making it normal to share and respect pronouns, we make our school a safer and more welcoming place for everyone. Let's learn about pronouns and use them in a way that makes everyone feel accepted and valued for who they are.
TODAY’S NEWS
Indigenous People’s History:
Harold Cardinal is Cree and grew up on Sucker Creek First Nation in Alberta. Harold Cardinal is known for his leadership and advocacy for Indigenous rights. In 1968, he was president of the then Indian Association of Alberta and was immediately faced with the Trudeau government’s White Paper Policy. His response, ‘Citizens Plus’, more commonly referred to as the ‘Red Paper’, was a landmark document in articulating the importance of honouring treaty obligations and Indigenous rights to self-determination.
GUIDANCE:
For all grads the sweet celebration will be happening tomorrow starting during period 3. Please remind all of your friends on spares and coops.
Art club is running today after school in room 1073.
Grad Art Show: Last night was the opening ceremony for the Grad Art show at the DSBN Education center. This art show consists of artwork from grade 12 students from across the DSBN. Shout out to the following students who represented Westlane in the show - Janna G, Andrea T, Oliviah M, Mustafa J, Ajla P, Milo M, Elizabeth P, Ethan C, and Ashley I.
Special congratulations goes to Janna G for winning an award for Most Interesting Use of Material for her piece, Soul Ties, which combined embroidery with acrylic paint on raw canvas. Shout out to Oliviah M for receiving an honourable mention for her painting, My Senior Year; and Elizabeth P for her painting, Sankofa, Looking Back and Learning from the Past, which was selected as one of the showcase pieces for Westlane.
EduCon Field Trip: If you are attending the EduCon Field Trip with Ms. Devereux tomorrow your passes have arrived! Please pick-up your NFCC passes TODAY at lunch outside the PHED Office.
Spartans for Christ will be meeting today at lunch in room 1098.
Homework Club will be cancelled tomorrow due to the Athletic Banquet. We will see you all next Tuesday!
SPORTS
Sports Banquet: Last chance to purchase tickets!!! Tomorrow June 4th, Westlane will host its Athletic Banquet! All Westlane students are welcome to attend and help us celebrate Westlane Sports! There will be pizza, prizes and awards. The banquet will be after school in the gym from 2:15 to 4:00. Tickets are available on school cash online! Come help us make the day memorable and celebrate your year in sports!
Athletic Ticket Pick-up: If you have already pre-purchased your Athletic Banquet ticket, please come to the table outside the PHED Office at the beginning of lunch to it pick-up.
TUESDAY, JUNE 2, 2026
DAYS OF SIGNIFICANCE
June is designated as Pride Month and kicks off Pride Season which is a term that refers to the wide range of Pride events that take place from June to September when 2SLGBTQ+ communities and allies come together to spotlight the resilience, celebrate the talent, and recognize the contributions of 2SLGBTQ+ communities. Although special attention is put on the Pride events during the summer months, they happen throughout the year as well.
Historically, Pride gatherings emerged from the first large-scale protests for 2SLGBTQ+ rights. In Canada, the first demonstrations took place in Ottawa and Vancouver in 1971. By 1973, Pride events were held in several Canadian cities.
The month of June, in particular, consists of both political activism and a celebration of 2SLGBTQ+ culture. It is a month for 2SLGBTQ+ communities to show their pride, celebrate diversity and love in all its forms, and to honour the tremendous achievements made to expand inclusivity and equality for 2SLGBTQ+ people.
Throughout this month, we will be highlighting the contributions of Canadian members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
TODAY’S NEWS
Attention all grads: if you are attending prom be sure to complete your tickets and guest form with Mrs. Gorman this week.
Indigenous People’s History: Christi Belcourt is a Métis visual artist whose work reflects deep connections to the land, nature, and traditional Métis knowledge. Her intricate paintings often resemble beadwork and highlight the beauty and importance of biodiversity. Beyond her art, she is a strong advocate for environmental protection and Indigenous cultural resurgence.
Pegasus Driving Academy will be here at lunch today. They offer Beginner Driver Education (BDE) courses, private driving lessons, flexible scheduling, and experienced instructors throughout the Niagara Region. Complete your BDE course, build confidence behind the wheel, and qualify for potential insurance discounts. Ask about their student specials and start your driving journey with Pegasus Driving Academy
GUIDANCE
Attention Class of 2026 - Nominations for Valedicatorian are now open. If you would like to run as the Class of 2026 Valedictorian, see Mrs. Bilon in Guidance for the nomination form. Potential Valedictorians will present speeches next Thursday during the Grad Celebration during Periods 3 and 4.
EduCon Field Trip
ALL students who are attending the EduCon Field Trip with Ms. Devereux on Thursday, June 4 please come to the Fashion Room TODAY at the beginning of lunch for a brief but important meeting.
SPORTS
Freezies will be available for $1.00 outside the PHED Office at the beginning of lunch.
Sports Banquet: Only two more days! On Thursday June 4th, Westlane will host its Athletic Banquet! All Westlane students are welcome to attend and help us celebrate Westlane Sports! There will be pizza, prizes and awards. The banquet will be after school in the gym from 2:15 to 4:00. Tickets are available on school cash online! Come help us make the day memorable and celebrate your year in sports!
MONDAY, JUNE 1, 2026
DAYS OF SIGNIFICANCE
National Access Ability Week: This month recognizes and acknowledges: • the valuable contributions of Canadians with disabilities • the accomplishments of individuals, communities and workplaces to remove barriers to accessibility and inclusion, and • the ongoing work we all have to do to counter discrimination against persons with disabilities and promote a culture of inclusion.
School Crossing Guard Appreciation Week: School Crossing Guard Appreciation Week is an opportunity to recognize and thank crossing guards for the important role they play in helping students and families travel safely to and from school. As an integral part of the school community, crossing guards provide care, consistency, and a welcoming presence that supports safer routes to school and reminds us that student safety is a shared responsibility.
DSBN Pride Flag Raising: The DSBN raises the Pride Progress Flag to affirm our commitment to safe, caring, respectful, and inclusive school communities. Representation and visibility help 2SLGBTQ+ students, staff, and families feel seen, valued, and supported. Pride Month is also an opportunity to celebrate 2SLGBTQ+ identities and raise awareness of the ongoing discrimination and oppression experienced by members of the community.
Ontario Day: By proclaiming June 1 as Ontario Day, the Province of Ontario recognizes the contributions Ontarians have made to Ontario’s social, economic, political and cultural fabric. Ontario Day is also an opportunity to remember, celebrate and educate future generations about the significant roles that Ontario and Ontarians have played and continue to play in Canada.
Indigenous People’s History:: Jesse Wente is an influential Anishinaabe media leader, broadcaster, and advocate for Indigenous representation in film and the arts. As a former chair of the Canada Council for the Arts, he has worked to ensure Indigenous creators have space and support to tell their own stories. His writing and public speaking challenge harmful stereotypes and promote authentic Indigenous voices in the media.
GUIDANCE
Attention Class of 2026 - Nominations for Valedicatorian are now open. If you would like to run as the Class of 2026 Valedictorian, see Mrs. Bilon in Guidance for the nomination form. Potential Valedictorians will present speeches next Thursday during the Grad Celebration during Periods 3 and 4. Very important update: for all University bound Grads, today is the last day to accept your university offer. There is a volunteering opportunity tonight with the Niagara Falls Historical Society, please see Google Classroom for details.
Art club is running today after school in room 1073.
Track and Field: The Westlane Track and Field Team continued its successful season at the South Region Qualifier meet. Once again, Savannah Rodgers had an outstanding performance and won the Junior Girls Discus, Shot Put, and Javelin. Savannah will represent Westlane at OFSAA later this week. Also punching their ticket to OFSAA were Colby Craig in both the 800m and 1500m, Musab Mohommed in the 400m and 200m, Messiah Ishmael, who won Novice Boys High Jump, and Max MacNeil in the 3000m. These 9 events mark the most Westlane OFSAA qualifiers in recent memory! Congratulations and best of luck at OFSAA!
Sports Banquet: On Thursday June 4th, Westlane will host its Athletic Banquet! All Westlane students are welcome to attend and help us celebrate Westlane Sports! There will be pizza, prizes and awards. The banquet will be after school in the gym from 2:15 to 4:00. Tickets are available on school cash online! Come help us make the day memorable and celebrate your year in sports!