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| Shelley Laskin, Trustee Toronto District School Board Ward 8: Eglinton-Lawrence & Toronto-St Paul's 416-395-8787 Shelley.Laskin@tdsb.on.ca
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In this Issue -- African Heritage Month at the TDSB – February 2023
- Chinese Heritage Month at the TDSB – February 2023
- English Kindergarten Registration Begins in February!
- Update on Virtual Learning for 2023-24
- Advocacy Responses from EDU
- I'm Honoured
- Board Meeting This Week
- Mental Health and Well-Being
- Toronto Public Health
- School Year Calendar 2022-23
- New Invitations - January 29, 2023: National Day of Remembrance and Action Against Islamophobia; Willesden Reads; In Conversation with Lawrence Hill; Ignite: tdsbCREATES Visual Arts and Film Exhibit Opening; More Joy
- Worth Repeating - CampTO; Middle French (Grade 4 entry) Immersion Application Process; Elementary Alternative Schools Online Application Update; Elementary and Secondary Out-of-Area Admissions Applications Update; Winter Clothing Drive; Out of the Cold Program (OOTC); Useful Links; PSS Virtual Drop-In Hours; Respect the Rules - No Dogs Allowed on School Grounds; Community Safety & Support
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African Heritage Month at the TDSB – February 2023
During the month of February, the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) proudly recognizes African Heritage (Black History) Month. It is an occasion to celebrate the many achievements and contributions of peoples of African descent to Canada and the world. The chosen theme for 2022-2023 is Black Joy.
The first Black Canadian woman elected to Parliament was the Honourable Jean Augustine, who introduced a motion to the House of Commons to recognize February as Black History Month. In December 1995, Canadians officially recognized February as Black History Month across our nation. At the TDSB, a motion to recognize African Heritage (Black History) Month was carried in January 2002 and reaffirmed again in January 2004.
This year, the contributions of numerous inspiring Black individuals will be highlighted. As we move forward toward December 2023, which marks 28 years since the Honourable Jean Augustine introduced a motion to recognize February as Black History Month across the nation, let’s pause to applaud her. Since December 1995, we continue to build a strong and robust foundation for Black communities across the nation. This motion brought us the opportunity to further learn about African (Black) heritage and start a conversation that continues to flourish.
The TDSB has proudly recognized and celebrated African (Black) History Month for 20 years. Today, Black students continue to be supported directly with the creation of the Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement and the Africentric program at Leonard Braithwaite at Winston Churchill Collegiate Institute and Downsview Secondary School for secondary students. Please take a moment to review our powerpoint on African Heritage Month – February 2023 that highlights inspiring Black individuals.
We are excited about the continuation of the Black Student Alliance elementary and secondary student groups that increase student voice and build capacity in student leadership. We are also appreciative of the continued collaboration between the TDSB and the York University Black Law Students’ Association in providing support to the Know Your Worth initiatives like the Black “Secondary” Youth Empowerment Conference and the Know Your Worth: Educator’s Conference. Please refer to the above powerpoint for information regarding these opportunities. Follow us on Twitter @tdsbAfricanHM and Instagram @tdsb_african_hm, and attend our virtual launch event:
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Chinese Heritage Month at the TDSB – February 2023
TDSB’s Chinese Heritage Month is proudly recognized in February each year. During this month, several learning resources and educational opportunities will be provided to our students and staff to further enhance their knowledge of Chinese Heritage.
In addition to Lunar New Year - The Year of the Rabbit, this year, the Chinese Heritage Committee selected a second theme: Honouring a Legacy of Conviction and Fortitude to mark the 100th anniversary of the Chinese Immigration Act of 1923 (known as the Chinese Exclusion Act). This Act restricted all people of Chinese descent from immigrating into Canada for 24 years, with only 15 Chinese immigrants being allowed entry into Canada from 1923 to 1946. Parliament officially repealed the act on May 14, 1947, and in 2006, the Government of Canada issued an official apology to Chinese Canadians.
The discriminatory impact of the Chinese Immigration Act of 1923, the progress made afterward despite the Act, and excerpts of the Government of Canada’s official apology are highlighted in this PowerPoint presentation. All TDSB students and staff were also invited to submit a one-minute video highlighting the legacy of a Chinese Canadian who has faced adversity and demonstrated fortitude. Submissions are currently being collected and a selection of the entries will be posted shortly. Please follow us on twitter @tdsbChineseHM.
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English Kindergarten Registration Begins in February!
Registration for all English TDSB Kindergarten programs begins in February. We look forward to welcoming you and your child at school in September!
To attend Junior Kindergarten in September, children must turn four-years-old by December 31. To register for Senior Kindergarten, children must be five-years-old by December 31. Families can begin the registration process online or visit their school in person to register. Information and detailed instructions about the registration process is available online at www.tdsb.on.ca/kindergarten.
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Update on Virtual Learning for 2023-24
Staff at the TDSB will continue to offer virtual learning for elementary and secondary students in the 2023-2024 school year. Virtual learning options are being offered as we know that some students and their families prefer this method of learning for a variety of reasons. The choice of virtual learning continues to be a choice in learning models rather than a pandemic response. The decision to offer this option now aligns with our typical staffing timelines which have been different in previous years due to the pandemic. It also aligns without out-of-area admissions.
Secondary
Regular programs and ISPs will be available at Virtual Secondary School, depending on available space. French Immersion, Extended French, LEAP, Alternative School, and Student Interest Programs are available in person only.
Only Grade 8 - 12 students requesting Virtual Secondary School for the 2023-2024 school year should complete the Virtual Secondary School Selection Form. This includes students who are currently attending the Virtual Secondary School.
Current Grade 9 Virtual Secondary School (VSS) students wishing to attend their designated in-person school by address for Grade 10 in the 2023-24 school year can indicate this on the Virtual Secondary School Selection Form. Students who do not complete the form will be returned to their designated in-person school by address.
Current Grade 10-12 Virtual Secondary Students wishing to return to their former TDSB secondary school for the 2023-24 school year can indicate this on the Virtual Secondary School Selection Form. Students who do not complete the form will be returned to their designated in-person school by address. In short, no action is required for students who plan to attend school In-Person next year.
The timing of asking students, parents/caregivers/guardians to request Virtual School for next year aligns with the Out-of-Area Admissions timeline, allowing students to complete their course selections through myBlueprint in February and coordinating with the secondary staffing process that is in place for all schools.
Elementary
The TDSB will continue to offer Virtual Learning (VL) for the 2023 - 24 school year for students in Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8. Regular programs and Intensive Support Programs (ISPs) will be available in Virtual Learning and are dependent on available space and viable programming. French Immersion, Extended French, LEAP, Alternative Schools, and Student Interest Programs continue to be available in-person only.
Students currently in Junior Kindergarten to Grade 7 who are requesting Virtual Learning for the 2023-2024 school year will need to complete the Elementary Virtual Learning Selection Form, including students who are currently in a VL class.
Current Grade 8 students requesting virtual for 2023-2023, need to complete the Virtual Secondary School Selection Form, which is open until Friday, January 27, 2023. They are completing the secondary form as they are entering grade 9 in September.
Students who register in TDSB after January 24 for this school year or in advance for the 2023-2024 school year (e.g. students entering Kindergarten in September 2023), will follow a process that will be communicated in May. Requests will be based on available space.
Students currently in an elementary VL class in JK to Grade 7 who would like to continue in Virtual Learning for the 2023-2024 school year MUST complete the selection form. Students who do not complete the form will be returned to their designated in-person school by address.
The online Selection Form will be available on the Virtual Learning website from Friday, January 27, 2023 to Sunday, February 12, 2023 at 6 p.m. Please complete only one submission per child. Once the form is submitted, it is a commitment for the entire 2023-2024 school year.
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Advocacy Responses from EDU
Sadly, the Ministry of Education (EDU) has declined our requests in response to our advocacy regarding increased Ministry access to, and support of Indigenous language education (read the letter sent by former Chair Alexander on October 5, 2022 here) and reinstatement of Priority School Initiatives (PSI) funding which has restricted the Board’s ability to offer reduced cost permits to community organizations in its school spaces on evenings and weekends in priority neighbourhoods (read the letter sent December 9, 2022). We will continue to advocate on behalf of students and communities.
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I'm Honoured
This fall, the Office of the Hon. Carolyn Bennett, MP for Toronto St. Paul’s reached out to our community and asked: “Do you know an amazing neighbour or ‘unsung hero’ that should be recognized for their outstanding service to our community? In honour of the late Queen’s Jubilee, we are asking you to nominate an extraordinary neighbour who has played a part in making our community stronger.”
I am deeply honoured that Carolyn nominated me in recognition of my work as a Trustee! This afternoon, I was awarded with a special Queen Elizabeth Jubilee Pin. I am grateful and humbled.
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Board Meeting This Week
Wednesday, February 1, 2023 - Regular Board Meeting - Public - 7:00 p.m. Boardroom - Agenda- 15.1 Audit Committee: Trustee Membership
- 15.2 Appointment of External Member to the Audit Committee
16.1 Governance and Policy Committee, Report No. 01, January 11, 2023 - 1.Policy Review Schedule for the 2022-23 to 2025-26 School Years
16.2 Program and School Services Committee, Report No. 02, January 18, 2023 - 1. Inner City Community Advisory Committee: National School Food Program
- 2. 2022 Summer Programs
16.3 Finance, Budget and Enrolment Committee, Report No. 02, January 23, 2023 - 1. Contract Awards, Operations
- 2. Contract Awards, Facilities
- 3. Major Capital and Renewal Projects Status Update
- 4. Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care System
- 5. Three-Year Enrolment Projections 2023-24 to 2025-26
- 6. A Collaborative Approach to School and Community Safety Report 1: Budget Implications
- 7. 2022-23 Revised Estimates
- 8. First Quarter Interim Financial Report: 2022-23
16.4 Planning and Priorities Committee, Report No. 03, January 26, 2023 - 1. Toronto Lands Corporation: First Quarter Business Operations Report
- 2. Change to the Spelling of Dr. Rita Cox – Kina Minogok Public School to Dr. Rita Cox – Kina Minagok Public School
- 3. Surplus Declaration of a Portion of the Maplewood High School Site, 120 Galloway Road
- 4. Mandatory Contemporary First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Voices Courses
- 5. 2023 Federal, Provincial and Municipal Budget Consultations
- 6. Business Arising: Endorsing the Toronto Youth Cabinet Statement on Prioritizing Youth
- 17.1 Written Notices of Motion for Consideration - Reconsideration of Previous Board Decision Schedule of Meetings for Regular Board and Standing Committee Meetings, 2023: Date Change re Finance, Budget and Enrolment Committee (Special Meeting) (Trustees Aarts and Li)
- 18.1 Review of the Guest Artist Program (Trustees Shan and Chernos Lin, on behalf of Trustee Nunziata)
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Mental Health and Well-Being
Winter Well-Being guide for 2022/23 created by the TDSB's Mental Health and Well-Being Committee has been updated to provide ongoing resources and ideas for Families/Guardians to promote mental and physical wellness during the winter months. Resources are culturally relevant and responsive with resources for students with Complex Needs. The Guide is translated into the top 21 TDSB languages spoken which is accessible here (Well-Being Guide).
Kids Help Phone is available 24/7 for ages 5-29 for anonymous care from professional counsellors. Call 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868.
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Toronto Public Health
We can all help reduce the spread of illnesses by wearing a mask at school. All TDSB students, staff, and visitors are encouraged to follow Toronto Public Health's recommendations to help reduce the transmission of illness in our school communities. It is important to protect ourselves and others with some simple steps:
- Stay up-to-date with your vaccinations including a fall COVID-19 booster and flu vaccine when eligible for the best protection against getting very sick from COVID-19 and influenza.
- Even if you have had a recent COVID-19 infection, staying up-to-date with your vaccinations gives you stronger hybrid immunity.
- #MaskUp - It is strongly recommended everyone wear a high quality, well-fitting mask in all indoor public settings, including in schools and childcare settings. It is especially if you are around people who are at higher risk (such as children under 5, seniors or those who have a health condition).
- Socialize outdoors when possible – outdoors is lower risk than being indoors.
- Stay home if you are sick or have symptoms, even if they are mild.
If you have symptoms, get tested for COVID-19 and treatment if you are eligible. - Wash or sanitize your hands often.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with your elbow or a tissue
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces
- Choose well ventilated spaces when possible.
- Reduce or limit the number of people you have close contact with, especially indoors and if you are around people who are at higher risk or have a health condition
- Keep a physical distance when possible, especially indoor
Learn more on how you can reduce virus spread when caring for someone or a child who has COVID-19 or another respiratory virus.
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School Year Calendar 2022-23
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January 29, 2023: National Day of Remembrance and Action Against Islamophobia
On Sunday, January 29th, the Toronto District School Board is marking the National Day of Remembrance and Action Against Islamophobia.
On this tragic day in 2017, a gunman opened fire on patrons of the Islamic Cultural Centre of Quebec City. This shooting claimed the lives of six people, which forever changed their families, injured many others, and harmed the entire Muslim community.
The TDSB's Equity, Anti-Racism, Anti-Oppression Department is offering virtual professional development sessions to TDSB staff and students in collaboration with the National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) and the TDSB’s Islamic Heritage Committee.
For more resources, please see below:
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Willesden Reads
On Friday, January 27, we marked International Holocaust Remembrance Day. The anniversary of the liberation of Jews from Auschwitz-Birkenau, which honours the six million Jewish victims of the Holocaust, the other victims of Nazism as well as survivors and the impact left on their families.
This day serves as an important reminder of the need for education surrounding Judaism, Antisemitism and the Holocaust. By gathering this knowledge and understanding, we can begin the work of focusing on learning through engaging in meaningful conversations to commit to action, build knowledge, and respect.
Keeping this in mind, the TDSB offered a program with Pinchas Gutter: In Conversation with Shari Schwartz-Maltz on January 27 and we are offering the upcoming opportunities for staff and students to learn how to address antisemitism in all learning spaces and build a critical consciousness about antisemitism
For more resources, please see below:
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In Conversation with Lawrence Hill
Join the Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement for an intimate discussion with international bestselling author Lawrence Hill! Celebrated Canadian writer Lawrence Hill will share his experience composing The Book of Negroes and explore the historical account of the transatlantic slave trade through The Book of Negroes historical document and subsequent docuseries. Date: February 2, 2023 Time: 6:00 – 7:00 pm Audience: TDSB students (Grades 11 – 12), caregivers and staff Please share this opportunity with your staff and students. Click here to register.
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Ignite: tdsbCREATES Visual Arts and Film Exhibit Opening
tdsbCREATES is a board-wide Arts initiative that connects local artists with schools to foster creativity and celebrate student voice. This exhibition of student work is from the Media and Visual Arts tdsbCREATES mentorship program. Learn more about tdsbCREATES. Opening: February 15, 2023 from 6:00 – 8:00 pm Exhibit: February 11 – March 1, 2023 Where: Artscape Youngplace, 180 Shaw St.
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More Joy!
A 30-minute after-school family literacy series Every Wednesday starting February 1st until March 8th from 7:00 to 7:30pm.
For more information, contact a Community Support Worker.
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CampTO
Registration for Summer CampTO opens February 11, 2023 at 7am. Registration for March Break CampTO is open. Choose from: CampTO, CampTO Explore, CampTO Plus, Counsellor in Training, or Adapted & Inclusive options for campers with disabilities or needing additional support. For more information click https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/recreation/campto/
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Middle French (Grade 4 entry) Immersion Application Process for September 2023
Application for Middle French Immersion is an entirely online process. All communication will be sent via the email address you provide. Please check your email regularly, including junk mail folders. The online application process opens on January 9, 2023 and closes on February 3, 2023.
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Elementary Alternative Schools Online Application Update
As you know, the TDSB has a wide range of elementary alternative schools available to students. This year, the application process is being managed centrally (in the past it has been managed by individual schools) and includes an online application form. The online application for admission for September 2023 will be open from Monday, January 16 at 4 p.m. to Thursday, February 16, 2023 at 4 p.m.
Elementary alternative schools will hold information sessions and/or open houses for students and parents/guardians/caregivers in January and February. More information is available on the Elementary School Open Houses and Information Nights web page. There will also be two Elementary Alternative Schools live webinars during the week of January 16, including one daytime and one evening session. Registration is required and a recording of the webinars will be posted on the website.
The registration link for the webinar is on Monday, January 16, which starts at 1:00 p.m.
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Elementary and Secondary Out-of-Area Admissions Applications Update
The applications for Out-of-Area Admissions launched at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, January 9, 2023. It is important to note that an application received on the closing date has equal standing with the first application submitted. The application closes on Friday, January 27 at 4 p.m. (secondary) and on Friday, February 10 at 4 p.m. (elementary). Late applications will not be accepted.
Students can apply for Out-of-Area Admissions in Regular programs and Intensive French programs. For more information about accessing Intensive French programs as a TDSB or non-TDSB student, visit the French Programs web page.
The Out-of-Area Admissions application cannot be used to access Special Education Intensive Support Programs (where Identification, Placement and Review Committee placement is required). For more information, visit Special Education and Inclusion.
The Out-of-Area Admissions application cannot be used to access Caring and Safe School Programs or Central Student Interest Programs.
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Winter Clothing Drive
Canada is welcoming newcomer families from Ukraine & Afghanistan, to name a few, and the TDSB is welcoming many of these newly arrived students into our schools. The newcomer students are adjusting to their first Canadian winter and can benefit from your generous support. The students need proper winter outerwear such as coats, boots, mitts and hats to be able to attend school. This year’s Winter Outerwear Drive will run from October 2022 to the end of February 2023. Learn more: bit.ly/3gZOwxx
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Out of the Cold Program (OOTC)
I've been asked to share the following - Holy Blossom Temple's Out of the Cold launched it last Thursday. Holy Blossom's OOTC program is no longer an overnight service - it's a hot meal, socialization, eventually kid-related supports from 5:00-7:00 pm every Thursday for the next 11 weeks. They hope to welcome families, so please know you are welcome to join in. Holy Blossom Temple is located at 1950 Bathurst St.
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PSS Virtual Drop-In Hours
We are here to help you in any way we can. Our Professional Support Services team offers monthly virtual drop-in times where you can connect directly with a staff member to help answer questions and provide support to help you and your child.
Wednesdays once a month: from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Virtual Drop in Hours
Virtual Drop-In Hours for Students with Special/Complex Needs
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We have a Poop Problem!Respect the Rules - No Dogs Allowed on School Grounds
A reminder to dog owners (and I know not all of you have kids at school). Dogs are not allowed on school property at any time. Many people are surprised to learn that TDSB Policy prohibit dogs (leashed or unleashed) being on school property. Section 6.10 PR523 Access to School Premises prohibits canines on our properties “at any time” (except service animals).
Please respect children’s play spaces.
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Community Safety & Support
If you should you ever see any suspicious activity around school buildings after school hours, please contact 311, Toronto Police Services Dispatch at 416-808-2222, or the TDSB’s 24-hour Call Centre at 416-395-4620.
If you or a family member is in crisis, please contact Kids Help Phone:1-800-668-6868 or get support right now by texting CONNECT to 686868.
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