February 22^nd, 2013

Dear Grade 5 Parents,

We are back from Luxor and I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mrs. Newsome, Mrs. Salib, Mrs. Kilany, Mr. Mohamed and the school for arranging this wonderful trip.  I believe that everyone, including myself, had a wonderful time and learned a lot.

I am writing to you an unbiased point of view as a parent of children in Grade 5 and not as a PSA representative/helper.  For those of you who had concerns about sending your children on the trip, I would like to put your minds at ease for future trips.  In terms of safety, security and supervision, the children were more than well taken care of during the entire trip.  All children were accounted for at all times, and believe me this was not an easy task! Even when they were in their rooms getting dressed or in bed asleep the teachers did a fabulous job of accounting for all the children.

I feel that this trip was a wonderful learning experience that broadened the children’s horizons, not only academically but also taught the children independence and responsibility. The children had to take care of their belongings and learn to be organized and punctual.  Many situations were used to further develop the children’s worldly knowledge regarding etiquette, manners and proper behaviour.  We received many enquiries from tourists and locals as to what school the children went to because they were pleased to see their behaviour.

The trip was superbly organized and the itinerary was followed without rushing anyone and without leaving anything or anyone out.

I witnessed firsthand the care and devotion the teachers gave to all the children, no exception.  Every child was asked many times if they were having a good time, if they were doing okay and if they were having fun.  On this note, I would personally like to thank the entire staff for the wonderful care and attention they gave to the children.  My children personally told me that they felt that “the teachers are like our family”.  Indeed, this is the feeling I had during the trip and was left with on my return.  It makes me feel very proud to be a member of a school community that cares so much about all of its members.

Yours sincerely,

Dina Mansour