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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 -- TDSB is 25!
- Education Week May 1-5
- Children's Mental Health Week May 1-5, 2023
- Jewish Heritage Month
- Asian Heritage Month
- From OPSBA's Provincial Update
- TDSB 2023-24 Budget Update
- Census 2023
- New Technological Education Graduation Requirement
- Committee & Board Meetings This Week
- Vax and Spring
- New Invitations - The Joys of Parenting (Part 2); Sign-Up to be an EcoSchool; More Joy; Parent/Guardian/Caregiver Session #3; Legislative Page Program; Ward Forum May 16, 2023 - 7-8:30pm - School Building in Toronto: Where are we now?
- Worth Repeating - TDSB Business Development Workshops; Panfest Vybz: A Celebration of Music, Arts, and Community; Credit Summer Programs; PIAC Conference: Save May 6! Summer School 2023; Secondary Summer Credit Programs; Elementary Summer School; Continuing Education Programming at the TDSB; Useful Links; PSS Virtual Drop-In Hours; We have a Poop Problem! School Year Calendar 2022-23; Approved 2023-2024 Calendar; Community Safety & Support
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TDSB is 25!
Today we held a reception to honour Trustees and Senior Staff serving the TDSB from 1998 to 2023. From my remarks - "We all know the context well… in January of 1998, following the amalgamation of the City of Toronto, the school boards in each of the former municipalities were united to create a new, larger school board that encompassed the entire “Mega City.” These seven smaller Boards — Board of Education for the City of York, East York Board of Education, North York Board of Education, Scarborough Board of Education, Etobicoke Board of Education and the Toronto Board of Education — were dissolved, creating the Toronto District School Board.
Here we are – 25 years after the forced merger of school boards – each of which, to their constituents was exemplary on its own… I use the term purposefully as the key characteristic of a hostile takeover is that the target company's management does not want the deal to go through – suffice to say I believe everyone in this room felt that way… and I remember at the time the research saying that it takes around 17-20 years for the hostility to dissipate… well, here we are 25 years later… some of us still smarting from amalgamation! But all of us proud of the numerous accomplishments supporting students throughout the years.
Over the course of 25 years, there have been 10 Directors – 7 permanent and 3 Acting. 99 different people have served as trustee and of those 13 have served the Board as Chair, 19 as Vice-Chair and many Student Trustees, Deputy Directors, Associate Directors, Superintendents and Executive Supports...
To all of you who came here today to celebrate… thank you for your years and years of dedication to public education… we stand on your shoulders…"
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Education Week May 1-5
From Monday, May 1 to Friday, May 5, we invite staff, students, parents/guardians/caregivers, and the wider TDSB community to visit the website (will be updated on Monday) and follow #TDSBAtoZ on Twitter to learn more about the incredible things happening across the TDSB in support of student success and well-being. We also encourage schools and classrooms to share what they’re up to this week using #TDSBedweek. Follow along!
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Children's Mental Health Week May 1-5, 2023
We're also celebrating Children's Mental Health Week. Find some ideas to celebrate and make sure you let us all know using the hashtags #TDSBCMHW2023 #WEDOWELLNESS
- My Identify Monday
- Talk Tuesday
- Walking Wednesday
- Thankful Thursday
- Friendly Friday
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Jewish Heritage Month
Jewish Heritage Month continues to be recognized at the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) during the month of May. Subsequently, the Canadian Jewish Heritage Act, was passed in May 2018 and is also recognized by the Province of Ontario by the passing of the Jewish Heritage Month Act, 2012. “May is a significant month for the Jewish Canadian community. Israeli Independence Day (Yom ha-Atzmaut) and Holocaust Remembrance Day (Yom ha-Shoah) frequently occur in May, as do various Jewish artistic and cultural events.”
This year marks the 90th anniversary of the Christie Pits Riot that took place in Toronto in August 1933. To commemorate this moment in history, the TDSB’s Jewish Heritage Committee in collaboration with the Italian Heritage Committee are offering TDSB students a chance to learn about the largest race riot in Canadian history. Together, both committees created a program designed for students in Grades 8 and 10 to learn about the riot through a re-enactment, workshops, and a visit to a newly created TDSB Peace Garden at Christie Pits Park. For students unable to attend due to limited capacity, resources were also prepared for in-classroom teaching and discussion.
This program is part of the committees’ commitment to plan annual educational opportunities and to enrich the curriculum for further learning. With these actions our staff, students and our TDSB communities celebrate and learn about the diverse cultures of individuals within our schools and communities.
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Asian Heritage Month
Asian Heritage Month is recognized formally across the nation through an official declaration that was signed in May 2002. Subsequently, the Province of Ontario passed the Asian Heritage Act (2005), and the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) elected Trustees passed a motion to recognize Asian Heritage Month in April 2007.
Canada has been enriched by the vibrant traditions that we continue to recognize in our brilliant city by celebrating our heritage proudly through festivals and traditional events that continue to be celebrated through generations. This year our theme is Joining Our Table: Celebrating Asian Canadians.
The TDSB is the largest and one of the most diverse school boards in Canada. Nearly one-quarter of our students were born outside of Canada and collectively we speak more than 120 languages. According to the 2017 TDSB Student & Parent Census 40% of TDSB students self-identified as Asian. During the month of May we are honoured to share with you several opportunities and resources to learn about the traditions, customs, and significant individuals that this heritage brings. Stay tuned as we share details with you throughout the month of May!
We invite all students, staff and the TDSB community to join us for an Asian Heritage Month Virtual Celebration to learn further about the Asian heritage on Monday, May 15, 2023 from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Live TDSB Webcast Follow us on twitter: @AsianTDSB
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From OPSBA's Provincial Update
Bill 98, Better Schools and Student Outcomes Act, 2023 This legislation was introduced on April 17 by Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education. The bill proposes changes to the Early Childhood Educators Act, 2007, the Education Act, and the Ontario College of Teachers Act, 1996. The legislation moved quickly last week and on Monday received Second Reading and was then referred to the Standing Committee on Social Policy. That Committee has announced dates for public hearings for the bill and these will occur on May 8 and 9. OPSBA has sent in a request to present in person to the Committee and we will wait to hear if we are selected. The work groups are meeting on May 5 and will be discussing the Association’s draft submission, which was shared with them earlier this week.
Note:
- There are several parts of this proposed legislation that refer to future policies, guidelines and regulations – OPSBA will be requesting to be part of the development of any of these future elements.
- The Association is also coordinating a comprehensive communications strategy in advance of our planned appearance at Standing Committee, as well as our final submission. Local advocacy templates are expected to be included.
- The bill was also posted for commentary on the Ontario's Regulatory Registry with a feedback deadline of May 16.
- Anyone wishing to make an oral presentation for Bill 98, needs to register their request by noon on May 1 and written submissions are due by 7 p.m. on May 9. Details can be found here: 2023-May-9 Notice of hearings Standing Committee on Social Policy | Legislative Assembly of Ontario (ola.org)
[Please note the Chair, TDSB asked to depute on behalf of the Board]
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TDSB 2023-24 Budget Update
Last week staff presented their preliminary analysis of the Grants for Student Needs (GSNs). Among the highlights - please note staff is still determining the actual impacts on our projected budget.
- There is a new funding formula for student transportation - the impact on TDSB has been estimated by the Ministry to be an increase in funding of $13 million. However, there are components that will have additional expenses and components that are enveloped.
- Funding will be provided based on remote learning enrolment - $479.27 per FTE to support principal, vice principal, school office support and IT buy the FTE will be excluded from other school-based/school facility-based allocations within the GSN - the total funding allocated to TDSB is projected to be $0.6M for remote learning.
- There is a Safe and Clean Schools Supplement for additional services that support student well-being and maintain clean schools
- Summer Learning Program has moved from Priorities and Partnership Funding (PPF) to GSN
- Updates to salary benchmarks have been made to reflect increases, however, all increases in funding will have a corresponding increase in expenditures and in fact, the gap related to teacher salaries will continue to grow
- There was no increase in the GSN for statutory benefits or costs related to sick leave.
- There was a realigning to better support Indigenous education priorities
- Other PPF Transferred to GSN include SHSM Expansion, Early Math Intervention for Students with Special Education Needs and Demographic Data Gathering
- The expiration of the COVID-19 Learning Recovery Fund was confirmed as was differentiated Funding for Online Learning
- Staff will continue with their analysis.
They were -
- Business Arising: Update on 2023-24 Grants For Student Needs Announcement: Request for Emergency Meeting With Minister to fully fund unfunded costs outside of the purview of the Board (Page 5)
- Business Arising: Update on 2023-24 Grants For Student Needs Announcement: Responding to Request for Commentary on Bill 98, Better Schools and Student Outcomes Act, 2023 (Page 7)
- Business Arising: Special Incidence Portion of the Special Education Grant (Page 8)
Lastly, please find an excerpt from the board statement by my colleague, Debbie King, TDSB Trustee Ward 7 Parkdale-High Park - it really resonated with me - "I’ll end by saying we have recently heard the phrase “getting back to basics” from the provincial government and in the press. From my perspective, the right to be valued and respected is basic. Getting “back to basics”, for many, requires that the discrimination evident in our schools be disrupted so every student and educator can in fact focus on learning – from math and literacy fundamentals to global competencies for leadership, entrepreneurship, or whatever they choose."
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Census 2023
The TDSB Student Census is an opportunity for students to share their voice. The confidential survey asks students important questions about their school experiences and identities including participation in school activities, safety, well-being, mental health, outdoor learning, etc. It is an opportunity for students to share their voice and provide valuable information to help improve our schools and system.
The TDSB is asking all parents/guardians/caregivers and/or students to consider filling out a census survey online. Based on opt-out and consent information, all Census surveys have been sent to students or families. JK to grade 3 families and grade 4 to 8 families (completing the Census at home) check your emails for TDSBStudentCensus@qemailserver.com.
- Students in grades 9 to 12 were sent a Student Census survey link on April 17.
- A new consent process for students in grades 4 to 8 provided parents/guardians/caregivers the choice of having their child complete the Census themselves at school, at home, or opt-out. Approximately 60% of families did not respond to this consent process. Because of this low response, most students in grades 4 to 8 are completing the Student Census at home, by default.
- Students or families in grades 4 to 8 received their Census links on April 25
- Parents of students in JK to grade 3 received their Census link at the end of March.
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New Technological Education Graduation Requirements
On March 10, 2023, the Ministry announced that all students entering Grade 9 beginning September 2024 will be required to earn one Grade 9 or Grade 10 Technological Education credit as part of the mandatory requirements to earn an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).
Broad-based Technological Education courses range from computer technology courses to skilled-trades focused courses. All eligible course codes begin with a “T” (e.g., TIJ1O1, Grade 9 Exploring Technology).
The TDSB currently offers Technological Education courses in 86 of the 110 secondary schools, including alternative programming. The Experiential Learning and Student Engagement department will work closely with school leadership to support the inclusion of Technological Education courses in all schools’ course offerings for the 2024-2025 school year. Schools that do not have the infrastructure to deliver skilled-trades based courses, e.g. Transportation Technology, will be able to focus on computer-based technology education courses.
We will continue to share information with families and schools as it is released by the Ministry of Education.
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Committee & Board Meetings This Week
The TDSB is committed to advocacy for students, parents and communities. We welcome members of the public to bring forward issues and concerns they have through a delegation, which is addressing a committee of the Board of Trustees (by speaking virtually, in person or submitting a written statement). Our Delegation Procedure is designed to set out a consistent and easily understandable process for the public and to manage the process in a fair and equitable manner. https://www.tdsb.on.ca/Leadership/Boardroom/Delegations
TDSB will strive to meet the accommodation needs of persons with disabilities; the delegates are encouraged to make their needs for accommodation known in advance of the Committee meeting when they send their request by e-mail to delegates@tdsb.on.ca by 4 p.m., two (2) working days before the committee meeting day.
Wednesday, May 3, 2023 - Governance and Policy Committee - 4:30 p.m. Boardroom - Agenda- 5.1Parent Involvement Advisory Committee Report, February 28, 2023 1.PR542, Changing a Timetable Consultation Process1
- 6.1 Review of Policy P017, Purchasing, Phase 5 and Rescission of Policy P026, Architect Selection
- 6.2 P067, Learning Opportunities Index (LOI) Policy: Phase 1
- 6.3 P021, Fundraising Policy, Preliminary Provisions: Status Update
- 6.4 P013, Out-of-Area Admissions Policy: Revisions
- 7.For Information Only
- 7.1 PR739, Promoting Respect in the Workplace: New Procedure
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Vax and Spring
Eligible high-risk residents are recommended to get their Spring COVID-19 booster for added protection if it’s been 6 months since your last COVID-19 dose or infection. Learn more at Toronto Public Health. Read the full ministry guidance here.
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The Joys of Parenting (Part 2)
The Joys of Parenting (Part 2): Building Home-School Partnership on Tuesday, May 9th, 2023 at 6:30PM
The Community Support Workers are offering this learning opportunity -
Exploring ways to strengthen the connection between school and home to serve our children. Register - here
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Sign-Up to be an EcoSchool
In 2020, TDSB schools joined the national EcoSchools Canada certification program. The TDSB first launched the EcoSchools program in 2003, to promote environmental education and action, and improve how schools and school grounds are used, run and even designed. The goal of the EcoSchools program is to support students and staff in learning about, caring for and protecting the environment — starting right in their own school. Research shows the EcoSchools program is “well-positioned to facilitate the integration of climate change learning and action throughout school communities”.
Certifying as an EcoSchool is an incredible opportunity for your students to join a global movement of over 19 million environmental leaders around the globe. It sets the stage for students and educators to learn about climate change, engage in sustainable solutions, develop skills, and form partnerships in their school communities. Whether you’re certifying for the first time, or pursuing your tenth year of Platinum certification, your school is supported by a comprehensive framework of and curriculum-linked resources to help you every step of the way. Registration for the 2022-2023 school year is now open and final deadline is May 12, 2023. Click https://app.ecoschools.ca/login.
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More Joy
TDSB Community Support Workers (Model Schools) present MORE JOY!! A 30-minute after-school family literacy series Wednesdays from 7:00pm to 7:30pm From May 3 to June 14
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Parent/Guardian/Caregiver Session #3 Tuesday, May 30th, 2023 from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM LC1 and LC4
If you require a language interpreter, please send in your request by Mon., May 22nd to SpecialEd@tdsb.on.ca. This session will focus on summer transitions and will include ideas to engage students during the summer months such as home activities, library resources and information on how to use Read & Write Gold at home. Information on community agencies will also be shared. There will be an opportunity for parents/guardians/caregivers to ask questions about these processes. The sessions will be facilitated by Special Education and Inclusion staff. Please click the link below to join the webinar for LC1/LC4: Zoom Link for May 30, 2023 at 07:00 PM https://tdsb-ca.zoom.us/j/96753209262
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Legislative Page Program
Applications for the fall 2023 term are now open. We are accepting applications until June 15th, 2023.
As we welcome the Pages to the Legislative Building, their health and safety, as well as everyone who has direct contact with them, is top priority. For the fall 2023 period, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Attend school in Ontario and be entering Grade 8 in the fall of 2023 (Note: Students in Grade 6 are not eligible; applicants must be in Grade 7 or 8 at the time of application)
- Have an academic average of Level 4 or 80 % (or higher)
- Students must also demonstrate an involvement in a variety of extra-curricular (in and out of school) and community based activities; leadership skills; responsibility, maturity and commitment; an interest in current affairs; strong interpersonal and social skills; and an ability to get along well with peers and adults.
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May 16, 2023 - 7-8:30pm - School Building in Toronto: Where are we now?
The TDSB's Long-Term Program and Accommodation Strategy is refreshed every year - please join Trustee Alexis Dawson and me to discuss the plans for our Wards. If you are interested in participating, please Register online here - https://forms.gle/aEoGS5BcgmJXDdYo7.
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TDSB Business Development Workshops
Missed one of our recent workshops? Visit our YouTube channel to learn about:
- Your Guide to Sponsorships at TDSB
- Writing a Successful Grant Application
- School Council Fundraising Best Practices Workshop
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Panfest Vybz: A Celebration of Music, Arts, and Community
Panfest Vybz is a Celebration of Music, Arts, and Community. The event will include a concert featuring the Pan Fantasy Steel Band and WCCI student steel pan performers, as well as a series of arts workshops with light refreshments. RSVP here. Thursday, May 4, 2023, 6-8 PM Winston Churchill CI, 2239 Lawrence Ave E, Toronto
6:00 PM student and community workshops and refreshments in Centre of Excellence for Black Student 7:00 PM Concert featuring Pan Fantasy Steel Band and WCCI students in Auditorium
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PIAC Conference: Save May 6!
Join the Parent Involvement Advisory Committee (PIAC) as it returns to the first post-pandemic, in-person conference, with speakers and workshops focused on bridging gaps in Parent Engagement and School Councils. Mark your calendar for Saturday, May 6, 2023 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Earl Haig SS. Register here.
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Secondary Credit Summer School
Registration for Secondary Credit Summer School 2023 opened April 18th at 10:00 a.m. for:
- Remote/In Person High School Students Full Credit
- Remote/In Person Adult 18+
- Remote Credit Recovery
- Remote/In Person Grade 8 Reach Ahead
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Elementary Summer School 2023
Looking to build your child’s literacy and numeracy skills? Elementary Summer School registration is now open! The focus of the 2023 Elementary Literacy and Numeracy Summer School Program is to continue student engagement through the month of July. Programs, which are developed by the local summer school principal to reflect the local school focus, are offered in-person to students in Kindergarten to Grade 8, from July 4 to July 28, 2023, in various locations around the city. This year, one remote program will also be available. For more information, including a list of schools and online registration forms, visit our summer school program page.
Elementary Summer School at Deer Park The program includes Kindergarten to Grade 8. Any student registered in an Ontario school can apply. (TDSB and Non-TDSB). Program dates: July 4 – July 28 Program time: 9:00am - 12:00pm Families should feel free to complete and send the registration by email or bring it in person to the school office.
Continuing Education Programming at the TDSB
Did you know we offer a wide variety of Continuing Education at the TDSB? I encourage you to explore learning opportunities available for children, families, adults, and visitors - click here for more information on continuing education programs and click here for more information on summer programs.
- African Heritage Elementary Program
- International Languages Elementary Program
- Learn4Life General Interest Spring Program - Adults 18+ and Senior
- Adult ESL Program
- Summer Music & Art Camps
- International Youth Summer Program
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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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School Year Calendar 2022-23
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Approved 2023-2024 Calendar
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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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