|
Dear Parents, Gaurdians, Students & Community Members,
I hope that everyone is keeping well physically and mentally during the school closures.
Parents have been contacting me to ask questions about the current state of affairs at the TDSB with regard to the Corona-virus (COVID-19), the current closure of schools beyond April 6th, and learning resources for students. Everyone has been very patient and helpful in many cases.
I understand the frustration that many people have over the lack of clear and consistent communication as things change on a daily basis. I have been communicating your concerns to the Director of Education, Superintendents and Senior Team in addition to identifying any communication gaps.
This newsletter focuses on COVID-19, school closures, online learning resources and mental health resources for students. I will also send updates throughout April as things change including details about a Town Hall meeting that I will hold (virtually?) to discuss the Speciaized Schools and Programs Policy being developed.
I hope the information in this newsletter is useful and helpful during this ongoing uncertainty. As a starting point, I have attached the letter sent to all Ontario parents from the Minister of Education.
Stay safe.
Alexander
| |
|
A Message from the Minister of Education
| |
Frequently Asked Questions - School Closures
Q: Are all childcare centres, Before-and After-School Programs and Extended Day Programs located in TDSB schools closed?
Yes. All childcare centres within TDSB schools will be closed from March 14 to April 5, 2020.
Q: Are EarlyON and Child and Family Learning Centres located in TDSB schools closed?
Yes. All EarlyON Centres within TDSB schools will be closed from March 14 to April 5, 2020.
Q: What other events and/or activities are cancelled or postponed during the closure?
For a full list of TDSB events and/or activities that have been cancelled or postponed from March 14 to June 2020, please visit the Event Cancellations page for an up-to-date list.
OTHER QUESTIONS?
Below is a list of common questions from parents/community members about the TDSB during school closures due to COVID-19.
Please review the questions, then click on any one to go to the answers (TDSB website).
Feel free to email me any other questions that you can't find answers for here or on the TDSB website.
Q: Can students/parents access school sites to retrieve personal items?
Protocol for Staff/Childcare to Access TDSB Schools and Administrative Buildings During Closure (March 27, 2020)
During the closure period, all Toronto District School Board (TDSB) sites are closed to all staff and individuals, with the exception of a limited number of staff who are performing essential duties that cannot be performed remotely. Ontario has declared a state of emergency; therefore, sites cannot operate normally.
Under very limited circumstances, temporary access to buildings and work spaces will be granted for staff only. No other individuals are permitted (e.g. students, visitors). Access will be granted at the request of individual staff members and only to retrieve critical items that will allow staff to work remotely (e.g. equipment such as laptops). Access will not be granted to retrieve personal items. Temporary access will also be granted to Child Care Operators to allow for the retrieval of critical items required for business continuity (e.g. payroll records).
| |
- Premier Doug Ford has announced that schools will not be returning on April 6, 2020 as initially scheduled. The TDSB has not yet received any additional information on this, however we will update parents/guardians as soon as we do. For updates visit www.tdsb.on.ca
- For FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS about the SCHOOL CLOSURES go to FAQ@tdsb. You can find answers to a wide variety of questions about services and operations in TDSB schools. If you have unanswered questions, contact alexander.brown@tdsb.on.ca
- The Ministry of Education has asked school boards to use the next two weeks to develop plans to establish the delivery of curriculum for an extended closure. The TDSB is developing a plan that would connect teachers to their students and/or their parents/guardians on a system-wide basis and would restore teacher-led learning to the greatest extent possible.
In this plan, we are considering a number of different factors:
Exploring ways to provide students with access to devices and the internet.
Accommodations needed by different types of learners, students with special needs, and English-language learners.
Programming for Adult and Continuing Education students.
Our support for student mental health and well-being including providing onlin resources and outreach to students and families.
OSSLT and EQAO Provincial Assessments
- Effective March 17, 2020, the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT), which is administered to all students across the province, is cancelled. It has been waived for graduating students who do not yet have the literacy requirement.
- Students who are not graduating this school year will have the opportunity to write the OSSLT in the upcoming 2020-21 school year.
- All EQAO assessments previously scheduled for the 2019-20 school year are cancelled.
LEARN AT HOME
Ministry of Education Learning Resources for students
The Ministry of Education has launched Learn at Home, a new online portal that provides resources for families so that students can continue learning while schools are closed.
Find supplementary resources for elementary and secondary students to practice math and literacy skills and learn at home.
These materials do not replace what students have been learning at school, but during this unusual time, these at-home activities offer quick and easy access to online kindergarten to grade 12 learning resources.
STUDENT LEARNING RESOURCES
Toronto District School Board Resources for students
The Toronto District School Board continues to review a number of additional online resources that support the Learn at Home initiative.
TDSB staff have compiled a variety of resources that cover a range of grades and subjects that may be helpful for students and parents during this time. It’s important to note that these online resources are not mandatory or graded and are meant for families to use as optional resources to support independent learning while students are at home.
TDSB Virtual Library for students and families that do not require a login or password to access. Choose the appropriate grade level in the drop down menu under the TDSB Virtual Library icon for example gr JK-3. You can also choose the resource type (multi-media, news...) and subject.
GO TO TDSB WEBSITE
| |
- Assistive technology tools are available for students who require differentiation when accessing the learning resources available here: TDSB Assistive Technology Tools.
- To support accessibility of resources you may find the following link helpful: AODA
| |
Effective immediately, the TDSB will be closing all playgrounds and other amenities, including sports fields and basketball and tennis courts, on school board property until further notice.
On Wednesday, March 25, Toronto’s Medical Officer of Health announced the closure of a number of city amenities including all city-owned playgrounds, sports fields, and basketball and tennis courts to limit public congregation and reduce the spread of COVID-19. All Toronto schools have been called on to do the same.
The Board will be posting signs (as above) and taping off all playgrounds. Please avoid use until further notice. Fencing or gates around structures will be locked where possible.
We recognize that playgrounds are important to our school communities, however we must all follow the advice of medical experts from Toronto Public Health and limit public congregation.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we work together to maintain the health and safety of our communities.
| |
|
While our schools are closed, it’s important that we remain focused on supporting our health and well-being. During this time of uncertainty and physical distancing, it’s important for us all to take time for self-care, and supporting our physical and mental health.
We recognize that these are stressful times for our students. We are inviting students and families to review the resources we have compiled on our website.
School Mental Health Ontario (SMHO)
SMHO works together with Ontario school districts to support student mental health. SMHO has a youth group called THRIVE. It has created several resources in the past year to attend to student mental health issues. They also have developed this webpage in response to student mental health and COVID-19.
The SMHO website also has a section dedicated to general student mental health needs and outlines your role as a student in creating positive mental health in your school community, and outlines how to take action and use resources to help with this as well as taking care of your own mental health. There is a resource on how to reach out for help as well as how to respond to a friend who may be struggling with mental health issues.
Youth at Risk Toolkit
A Suicide Prevention Toolkit for YOUTH, developed by the Centre for Suicide Prevention. This toolkits describes the myths and facts on suicide prevention and gives ideas on how to ask for help if you are a youth and struggling with thoughts of suicide. It also provides ideas on how to help a friend who might be struggling. Resources to support youth who lost someone from suicide are also included.
These resources are selected as being potentially helpful to children and youth who want to learn more about well-being, and positive mental health.
Mindyourmind
Mindyourmind exists in the space where mental health, wellness, engagement and technology meet. We work with community partners and young people aged 14 to 29 to co-create interactive tools and innovative resources to build capacity and resilience.
Teenmentalhealth.org
Teenmentalhealth.org is designed to help improve the mental health of youth using the best scientific evidence available to enhance the understanding of adolescent mental health.
Beautiful Minds Student Handbook
Beautiful Minds is based on the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health program “Talking About Mental Illness” (TAMI) – an awareness program proven to be effective in bringing about positive change in people’s knowledge about mental health, and in reducing stigma that surrounds mental health issues.
Exercises for Emotion Regulation
Exercises for Emotion Regulation is an excellent resource on learning to monitor and regulate emotions and breathing, with structured exercises to practice.
Memorization Tricks
10 suggestions to improve your study concentration
Remembering is a tricky business. We can remember some things easily yet cannot seem to remember other things. Here are some tips that can help you improve your memory.
| |
TDSB Update is published approximately 10 times a year, following a meeting of the Board of Trustees. It carries the latest news across the TDSB, and summarizes the decisions of Board meetings. Subscribe to TDSB Update
| |
You Can Help Stop the Spread of COVID-19How to protect yourself
Coronaviruses are spread mainly from person-to-person through close contact, for example, providing care for a person with COVID-19 in a household or health care setting or coming into direct contact with infectious body fluids of a person with COVID-19.
| |
Everyday actions can help prevent the spread of germs and viruses like COVID-19:
Wash your hands often with warm water and soap or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
Avoid contact with people who are sick
Stay home when you are sick
Sneeze and cough into your sleeve
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
Face masks are not recommended for the general public, except for people experiencing symptoms and who have been advised to wear a mask by a health care provider.
Self-monitoring
Public Health Ontario recommends that if you believe you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 symptoms, you should begin to self-monitor for a period of 14 days. This means that, in addition to social distancing, you should track how you feel. You should take your temperature daily and log any other symptoms that develop (e.g., sore throat, new cough). You can share these records with your primary care provider over the phone if you seek assessment services.
Social Distancing
| |
Social distancing includes, but is not limited to:
Working from home where possible.
Avoiding visits to long-term care homes or retirement homes.
Avoiding non-essential trips in the community.
Limiting or cancelling group gatherings.
Avoid all large gatherings of over 50 people.
Planning virtual meetings instead of in person.
Maintaining a distance of 2 metres (two arms’ length) between yourself and others.
Please note: that these guidelines are not meant to say “you must stay in your home!”
You can still go outside to take a walk, go to the park, or walk your dog. If you need groceries, go to the store. While outside avoid crowds and maintain a distance from those around you.
| |
Community Living Toronto has been a source of support for people with an intellectual disability and their families since 1948. They offer a wide range of services including respite, person-directed planning, employment supports, residential programs, and community-based activities. They proudly support over 4,000 individuals and their families in 80+ locations across Toronto.
| |
|
Do you need information about financial assistance, mental health support, employment support, childcare, housing, food, clothing and shelter?
Find help at 211central.ca or call/chat/text/email 2-1-1
. . . connects people living in the GTA to over 4,000 programs and social services such as financial help, employment services, mental health, home care, housing, shelters, food and childcare.
. . . offers a 24/7 confidential service in 150 languages, including online, text and chat services.
. . . is funded by United Way Greater Toronto, the City of Toronto, and the Government of Ontario.
If could use some assistance with these and/or other community services, feel free to contact 211Toronto. Please share this information with others.
Thank you
| |
| Willowdale City Councillor
| |
Municipal Update
Keeping Condos Safe:
Earlier today, the City of Toronto issued health and safety guidelines to Landlords and Condo Boards to protect residents from COVID-19. Such measures include: providing alcohol-based hand sanitizer at all building entrances and open common areas; closing non-essential common areas such as gyms and playrooms, and practicing physical distancing when showing units and suites for sale or lease. General Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) Guidance for Commercial or Residential Buildings can be found here.
COVID-19: Economic Support & Recovery
The Mayor’s Economic Support and Recovery Task Force was launched to help protect Toronto’s economic success in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The City will work with industry partners to identify actions to support businesses, workers and residents. Business owners are invited to complete this City survey to share how the COVID-19 pandemic is impacting their business, and what information or supports they and their employees need.
Construction:
City-led infrastructure construction has been deemed essential by the Province and will proceed for important City water and transportation infrastructure, as well as City parks and recreation facilities. This construction is essential to ensure the City's infrastructure and facilities remain safe, in a state of good repair and able to meet Toronto’s needs.
Building Permits:
Toronto Building is now accepting building permit inspection reports from qualified professionals. Additionally, permits that were ready prior to March 16 are being issued. Staff are examining options to provide occupancy inspections and issue permits to allow construction already underway to continue to the next phase. More information is available on the City’s website.
Solid Waste Management:
Solid Waste Management Services’ staff remain on the job each day collecting and managing Toronto’s garbage, recycling and organics. With the increased use of personal protective equipment, we want to advise people of how to properly dispose of these items. Put masks, gloves and wipes in the garbage and bag all garbage.
Some items that would typically go in the Green Bin, should now be disposed of in the garbage. This includes items such as tissues, sanitary napkins and personal hygiene products. Toronto is doing this as a precautionary measure.
Provincial News
The Ontario Government is also looking to provide economic relief to employers who find themselves financially strained due to COVID-19. $1.9 billion relief package will run through the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board. Federal News
Support for businesses impacted by COVID-19
Ottawa announced that more help is coming for small and medium-sized businesses impacted by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. A few measures include a wage subsidy up to 75%, and GST/HST deferral.
Services Canada
The Government of Canada has closed in person Service Canada Centres. Canadians will still be able to access their benefits, the easiest way being online at: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/ei.html. You can also call Service Canada at 1-800-206-7218.
| |
To help support our clients and community during this stressful and uncertain time, MindWell is sharing tips and free resources and training.
Read the Blog PostCheck out our latest blog post for ten ways mindfulness can help you cope in a crisis.
You'll find tips for managing stress, for bringing more mindfulness into your daily life and simple practices you can begin right away.
We hope these resources help you maintain your well being throughout this challenging period and always.
| |
|
Specialized Schools & Program Draft Policy Consultation
Please share widely that the TDSB community is invited to participate in a web chat on the Specialized Schools and Programs policy, on Thursday, April 2 at 1 p.m.
This online consultation is for a new policy designed to improve clarity when it comes to admission procedures, practices and timelines which differ from those in regular schools. This new policy, which supports the Secondary Program Review, will help more students have access to these programs.
Learn more about the draft Specialized Schools and Program policy and join us on April 2 to share your voice. To access the web chat, click here.
| |
|
|
|
