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by Bob Mitchell Turf can make or break a school 11 | Wednesday, December 4, 2013 | OAKVILLE BEAVER | www.insideHALTON.com Special to the Beaver Halton's public board should use some of its surplus funds for the installation of artificial turf at high schools, vice-chair Kathryn Bateman-Olmstead says. "It (playing field condition) has become a huge issue," Bateman-Olmstead told trustees at a recent Halton District School Board (HDSB) meeting. She said students are moving to Catholic high schools because of the quality of their playing fields. "We are fortunate to have the schools we have but we are losing students to our co-terminus board because of the beautiful fields they have," BatemanOlmstead said. "When talking to various phys-ed instructors it becomes obvious how important this is to them." Bateman-Olmstead is expected to raise the issue again when trustees meet today (Dec. 4) to formally approve of the board's financial statement. If trustees approve the staff recommendations for transferring money, the board will have nearly $123.4 million in accumulated surplus. Boards have the authority to set aside accumulated surplus funds for various purposes. Some of the money, according to Education Director Dave Euale, will be used for future school improvements. "We're hoping to build up that fund to a substantial amount... and come with a plan for a number of major projects to renovate our schools so that (they) can be at a better standard," Euale said. Photos & Videos WITH SANTA NOVEMBER 29 ­DECEMBER 24 TUESDAY­FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY, DEC. 23 CHRISTMAS EVE 10AM - 8PM 10AM - 6PM 11AM - 5PM 10AM - 8PM RESERVATIONS ONLY* Your memorable experience with Santa will be captured digitally by photo and video, which you can download, print or send to friends ­ all for free! You're also invited to bring your own camera! Donations will be accepted, with 100% of the proceeds benefitting the organization Sleeping Children Around the World. free Catch Toy Story to benefit KSM The Oakville Junior Optimist Club will be hosting a showing of Toy Story 3 on Tuesday, Dec. 10. Held at the Oakville Central Library, 120 Navy St., the event runs from 6:30-9 p.m. Admission cost is a toy, while monetary donations will also be accepted. All proceeds will benefit Kerr Street Ministries (KSM), a Christian charity that assists families in need through a variety of programs and services. PAWS & CLAUS PET PHOTOS DECEMBER 2, 9 & 16 2PM ­ 8PM RESERVATIONS REQUIRED* All four-legged furry friends are invited to have a free photo taken with Santa. Donations will be accepted with 100% of proceeds benefitting the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides. *Space is limited. In-person reservations only, booked on a first come, first served basis. Visit Guest Services to reserve your time slot. Visit OAKVILLEPLACE.COM for more information.