If you’re the parent of a teenager, you might have heard about the rising number of teens that are using vapour products, such as electronic cigarettes. Rates of vaping have now surpassed tobacco smoking among youth. For instance, 23% of Ottawa high school students in grades 9-12 have used an electronic cigarette at least once compared to 14% that have tried tobacco.

This growing vape culture is concerning as the long-term safety of inhaling the chemicals from vaping products are still unknown. Vaping products may also contain nicotine. Nicotine is a highly addictive substance that can alter brain development and can affect concentration and memory in youth.

For more information, please visit http://www.parentinginottawa.ca/en/youth/vaping.aspx

"The Bright Math Camp represents a unique out-of-school learning opportunity for students with a drive to explore,
to question, to reason, and to discuss a range of sound mathematical topics." For further information, please click here

The Ottawa Catholic School Board opens its doors during Catholic Education Week to showcase the learning our students experience every day. All Board schools host activities to encourage the community to visit as we are 'Renewing the Promise'.

The Catholic Education Week Mass, celebrated by Archbishop Terrence Prendergast will take place Tuesday, May 8th at 7:30pm at Notre Dame Cathedral, 385 Sussex Drive, Ottawa. The Mass will be followed by the presentation of the Director of Education Commendation Awards. These awards are unique as the recipients are nominated by their peers for recognition. Our Catholic Education Week Mass collection will be directed to Mother Earth Water Walk, www.motherearthwaterwalk.com, a Canadian organization of First Nations people raising awareness and promoting the health of our Great Lakes and the precious water they provide.

Holy Cross Elementary will celebrate their 50th anniversary on Monday, May 7th. An open house will begin at 6:00 pm and the formal ceremony will take place in the gym at 6:30pm. Refreshments will be served in the Learning Commons.

Georges Vanier Elementary, 40 Varley Drive in Kanata, will celebrate their 50th anniversary on Wednesday, May 9th at 4pm. Take a walk down memory lane at an Open House/Tour of the school at 5:30pm. There will be a welcome prayer and school blessing beginning at 6:30pm.

Frank Ryan Intermediate School is also celebrating their 50th Anniversary. Join them on Friday, May 11 from 3:00pm to 7:00pm for special events including a memory walk, photo booth, face painting and refreshments.

Visit ocsb.ca/edweek for a listing of the activities in over 80 OCSB schools during Education Week.  Follow #CathEdWeek.