This time in the Learning Commons:
As November begins, we enter a season of remembrance. In the days leading up to Remembrance Day, we pause to honour the men and women who served and sacrificed for our peace and freedom. Through Remembrance Day stories and resources or a simple moment of reflection, we invite you to remember together.
This newsletter also brings important updates from the Learning Commons, including new resources, upcoming student events, and a few timely reminders. From strengthened literacy tools and fresh titles in Sora to contests and virtual workshops, there’s something here for every learner.
Resource Updates & Tips
- TeachingBooks offers new printable, age-appropriate Vocabulary Graphic Organizers that deepen word knowledge, solidify meaning, and enhance comprehension with Beginning & Early Reader and Elementary Reader sets.
- New resources in the Search Portal
- Prenda Treasure Hunt Reading: An Explorer’s Guide to Literacy is based on the Orton-Gillingham approach and the Science of Reading principles. It is a great fit for any young reader, including readers who may struggle with Dyslexia or dyslexia-like tendencies. THR moves readers through pre-K print and phonemic awareness development to complex decoding and comprehension.
- A Teen’s Guide To Conflict: how to deal with drama, manage anger, and make things right. With the proper tools, teenagers can learn to respond to conflict and experience a meaningful sense of community. They don’t have to be controlled by their frustrations. Instead, they can manage and even reverse the effects of anger.
- Used Bookstore – Teaching Textbooks Math book and disc sets are being discontinued as the company transitions to a subscription model. This is the last chance to buy New, unopened sets as well as gently used sets!
- New Books and Audiobooks on Sora! Thanks to our PAC, we have renewed popular books and bought some newer fiction titles!
- November is a time to remember. These Remembrance Day Books on Sora for all ages are a great way to share about our veterans.
- World Book Encyclopedia and National Geographic Kids are available on the BC Digital Classroom. Find your login information here.
Student Highlights & Contests
- A StoryTime at the Beach (Kindergarten – Gr. 4) is free for all HCOS students on November 18, 2025, at 10 am. Register here.
- Virtual White Hatter: Cyberbullying and Internet Safety Live-Streamed Event – For grades 6-8; Students will learn how to navigate emotional, legal, and reputational challenges online while reflecting on how their choices affect themselves and others. This program focuses on education, empowerment, and the positive use of technology.
- Virtual White Hatter: AI for Students – I.N.S.P.I.R.E. — Intentional Navigation & Safer Practices for Inclusive, Responsible, and Ethically engaged Use of AI — is a live virtual session for high school students (Grades 9–12). AI isn’t the future — it’s already shaping how teens learn, work, create, and connect. This program equips students with the knowledge and tools to navigate AI responsibly, protecting their safety, privacy, digital well-being, and learning.
- ✨Check Out Our Book Review Padlet! Our students have been busy sharing their thoughts on what they’ve been reading! Visit to see the latest posts and celebrate student voices. It’s a great way to discover new reads! This contest closes on November 14th.
Blessings from the Learning Commons Team
