Update for Families: December 19, 2025 | Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board

By Kawartha Pine Ridge DSB - Dec 19, 2025

Updates for Families

Dear KPR Families,

As we arrive at the Winter Break and wrap up 2025, I want to express my deepest appreciation to the students, staff, families, volunteers and partners that make up our KPR community! Reflecting on the first four months of the school year, we have much to celebrate.

Looking ahead to 2026, I am energized by the opportunities to advance excellence in learning, life, and community, and eager to build on the strong momentum we have established so far this school year.

As a reminder, schools will be closed from December 22 – January 2 and we look forward to welcoming students, staff and families back to school on Monday, January 5.

May the days ahead bring cherished moments and well-deserved rest to everyone. We extend wishes of peace and hope for communities around the world, and we hold in our thoughts and hearts those communities who are experiencing challenge, conflict and loss at this time of year.

Seasons greetings to students, staff and families celebrating Hanukkah from December 15-22, Winter Solstice on December 21, Christmas on December 25, Kwanzaa from December 26-January 1, and Orthodox Christmas on January 7.

My thanks and warmest wishes for a healthy and happy new year!

Sincerely,

Rita Russo
Director of Education

KPR News

2026-2027 SCHOOL YEAR CALENDAR CONSULTATION

KPR students, staff, families and community members are invited to provide feedback on the proposed 2026-2027 school year calendar. Since the Labour Day holiday falls later in September, there are unique considerations for the 2026-2027 School Year Calendar.

Visit the school board website to view elementary and secondary school calendar drafts, including PA Days and Exam dates, and to share your feedback by January 25, 2026.

OPTION 1

In Option 1, school starts on Tuesday, September 1 (before Labour Day, which is Monday, September 7).

Option 1 includes Board holidays on November 13, November 16 and on March 12, leading into March Break.

OPTION 2

In Option 2, school starts on Tuesday, September 8 (after Labour Day, Monday, September 7).

Option 2 does not include Board holidays in November and does not include a Board holiday on the Friday before March Break.

IN BOTH OPTIONS

In both options, March Break is March 15 through 19. December Break is December 21 through January 1, with students returning to school January 4. And the last day of school will be Tuesday, June 29.

Overview of New Kindergarten Curriculum Coming September 2026

As part of the Ministry of Education’s commitment to strengthen foundational skills in literacy, math, and STEM, and support Ontario’s youngest learners for long-term success, the Minister of Education has issued a new Kindergarten Curriculum (2026) for implementation in the 2026-27 school year.

Key features of Ontario’s full-day kindergarten program, including play-based learning supported by teachers and early childhood educators, remain unchanged.  For more information, families are invited to review the parent overview available on the Ministry of Education website.

Cafeteria Surveys for Students and Families

KPR would like to hear from secondary school students (and intermediate students who use secondary school cafeterias), and their families about food services at school during lunch breaks and for snacks.  This will help us better understand student needs and preferences. The surveys will be open for completion until the end of day, Sunday, January 11, 2026, and can be accessed through the following links:

Student Survey

Parent/Caregiver Survey

High School Grade 8 Information Nights   

KRR secondary schools are hosting information sessions for parents, caregivers and students throughout December and January. Grade 8 families can learn about programs, courses and the many exciting opportunities that are available! Follow @kprschools on Instagram and Facebook, or visit the board website for event dates and times.    