September 21, 2023

Written By UTS

Fostering Brilliance

One of the things I love most about working in schools is the opportunity to continue my own learning. I admit I’m a bit of a “geek” when exploring new ideas, pondering big questions and tackling the sometimes overwhelming task of keeping up with information in a rapidly changing world. This propensity to take a deep dive into emerging trends is well-suited to my work at UTS, and I am heartened to be part of a school community that aligns with who I am and what I value.

The world around us is changing rapidly. We are privileged and challenged to live at a time in history when the confluence of societal, environmental and scientific changes will create the perfect storm. As an eternal optimist – I always see the glass as half full – I elect to see this as a storm of opportunities.

Artificial intelligence and disruptive technologies, as a whole, are part of that storm and provide unique and exciting opportunities for schools. We read about the threat of AI, and I believe society must approach the next decade (the next few years, perhaps) with deep thought and careful consideration for the potential perils ahead. But I also believe there is an important role that disruptive technologies can play in bettering our lives. It’s a power that if harnessed ethically and properly, offers huge potential to do good.

This evening, we welcome Dr. Ge Wang to UTS. As an Associate Professor at Stanford University in the Department of Music, Dr. Wang will speak about the intersection of artificial intelligence, music and visual arts. This use of disruptive technology, grounded in an understanding of traditional STEM areas, but expanding its application into other disciplines is exactly the type of learning I believe our students are ready to tackle. 

The proverb, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together,” has never held more meaning for me as we embark on this journey of opportunity and uncertainty. I look forward to partnering with you to ensure our children are ready for what lies ahead.

Dr. Leanne Foster

Principal, UTS

UTS Calendar

AP Courses and Exams - How many should your child complete?

The answer to “how many AP exams are enough” to make a competitive university application depends on student’s goals and the context. There is a lot of confusion, conflicting information and misinformation online about this question. This often results in students dedicating time and money towards unnecessary additional AP exams, that would be better applied to other aspects of their profile and personal and academic development.

The experienced Student Services and Academics teams at UTS are regularly updated by university admission offices on how to maximize our students' chances for admission. Students and families should continuously communicate with their guidance counsellor to receive expert, personalized advice for their situation. See these slides for more information.

AP Exam Registration

A registration portal link will be shared with M4 to S6 students next week. Registration for AP exams closes on October 27; invoices for exams will be sent in November directly to guardians. See this document for FAQs and more information. Reach out to apexams@utschools.ca with any questions - we are happy to help!

Reporting Absences

Please let us know if your child will be away by reporting it to the main office at mainoffice@utschools.ca or by calling 416-946-7990 or 416-946-4012.

We offer two lunch ordering options. Please find the daily options for October lunches here.

Please find the Zero-Waste options here.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

On Friday, September 29, all UTS students and staff will spend the day learning, reflecting and committing to action in preparation for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The schedule for the day is here. Students should arrive at the normal time (8:50 a.m.). The day will wrap up after the closing keynote at 3:30 p.m. M3 students will be at Camp Kandalore and will have special programming to honour the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at camp. 

Participate in Research: In-ear EEG Device for Auditory Brain-Computer Interface Communication

Do you want to help us develop a communication device for youth with severe motor and visual impairments? Consider participating in our research study at Holland Bloorview. More information can be found in the flyer here.

Cousellor’s Corner

S6 students had their first Guidance Seminar class this week, with the focus on ‘reconnecting and reflecting.’ S5 students will have their first seminar next week, and are encouraged to double check their Google calendars so as not to miss this important class.

Tips for the Flu Season

With fall, comes respiratory illnesses. The following are some of the ways that you can help protect our school community.

  • Stay home if you are experiencing symptoms of illness. Symptoms may include sore throat, stuffy nose, headache, tiredness, fatigue. 

  • Wash or sanitize your hands often, and cover your cough/sneeze into your elbow or a tissue.

  • Consider wearing a well-fitted, high-quality mask in crowded areas with poor ventilation, especially for those who are at higher risk of severe illness.

  • Consider getting your COVID-19 boosters and influenza vaccine once available.

Music Co-Curriculars

Music co-curricular ensembles will be starting in the next week or two. Rehearsal times are listed below. Students registered in music will be provided an instrument for use. An Instrument Use Policy was sent via Permission Click last week to be filled out by parents. Non-music students must provide their own instruments in order to participate. Instrument cases should be carefully labelled and families assume responsibility for any damages that may be incurred at school. 

Practice rooms will be made available for lessons facilitated through UTS, or for student’s personal practice. If a student is interested in paying for private lessons at the school, or would just like to book a space to practice, please email Mr. Laidman  at mark.laidman@utschools.ca. 

Times

Allergies Awareness at UTS

UTS is not a nut-free environment as we cannot control the foods that are brought in during lunch or break. However, some UTS members have anaphylactic allergies to nuts that require the use of Epi pens.

We are asking parents/care providers to ensure that food being sent from home is nut-free.

As a part of our commitment to a safe school environment, UTS has ensured that all meals provided by the hot meal vendors are also nut-free.

UTSPA Call for Volunteers - Parent Volunteer Group Members

Throughout the year, there are opportunities at the school to volunteer that include special lunches for students, reception support at events, and so many other offerings. Are you interested in getting to know more people at UTS? Do you have a few hours you could volunteer to support various initiatives? If so, you would be a welcome member of the Parent Volunteer Group.

As a member, you will have priority access to volunteer opportunities at the school. You can select the opportunities that suit your schedule, and you will receive messages on the positions available throughout the year.

Sign up with this form to be a member of the Parent Volunteer Group, today!

Back to School at the UTS Shop

Start your school year with a visit to the UTS Shop! Whether it’s a UTS pencil case, backpack, or hoodie, we have what you need to show your school spirit. 

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