Symmes - D'Arcy McGee Update - 8/29/25 - Symmes Junior & D'Arcy McGee High Schools

Dear Families,

We had a great first few days with our students! It’s really great to have everyone back at school

Here is some information for this week:

School Swag

The Symmes-D’Arcy online clothing boutique is now open
Please visit: https://stores.inksoft.com/symmesdarcy/shop/home if you would like to purchase items
The boutique will close on September 14^th
Reach out directly to Ms. Sarah-Ann Stone (sastone@wqsb.qc.ca) if you have questions!

Running Club/Cross Country

Vikings Football

Please see the attached poster advertising tryouts for PeeWee football with the Gatineau Vikings

Grade 7 Tips

I’ve attached some tips for a successful start to grade 7 that you can review with your child

Cell Phone Ban

As you have likely heard, the Province of Quebec has mandated a complete ban of cell phones on school properties during the school day for students in the youth sector
Students will not be permitted to use their phones between 8:50am (first bell) and 3:33pm (last bell)
This ban includes lunch hour and breaks between classes
This ban includes Smart Watches and Airpods/headphones
Students will be required to leave their devices in their lockers for the duration of the day
Here is a breakdown of consequences if the ban is not respected:

First infraction – student is required to turn over their phone which will be safely stored in the office, for the duration of the day
Second infraction – student is required to turn over their phone which will be safely stored in the office, for the duration of the day – parents will be notified
Third infraction – student is required to turn over their phone which will be safely stored in the office, until a parent can come to the school to collect it
If a student chooses not to relinquish their phone, they will be suspended from school
If a student is disrespectful or argumentative with a staff member, they will be suspended from school

This policy aims to limit distractions, enhance academic performance and encourage meaningful interactions
If you need to reach your child during the day, please call the main office (819-684-7472 ext 437006) and we will pass the necessary information to your child
If your child needs to reach you during the day, they are very welcome to use one of the landlines in the main office
Please note that our cafeteria will only accept cash/debit/credit and students cannot use devices to pay for purchases

Annual General Assembly (AGA)

The AGA for Symmes parents will be in our auditorium on September 17^th at 6pm
The AGA for D’Arcy parents will be in our auditorium on September 24^th at 6pm
The purpose of the AGA is to inform parents of the structures and routines of school as well as to elect the parent representatives to our Governing Board
I have attached information about Governing Boards to this email for your information – it’s a great way to get involved!
At the AGA, we will also be taking names for potential spots on the WQSB Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC)
Parents will also have an opportunity to meet their child’s teacher and tour the school

Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC)

Course Change Deadline – D’Arcy Students

The course change deadline for D’Arcy students is September 15^th
Students will need to complete a form they can find in our Student Services center to request a change

Upcoming Dates