|
|
| Shelley Laskin, Trustee
Toronto District School Board
Ward 8: Eglinton-Lawrence & Toronto-St Paul's
416-395-8787
Shelley.Laskin@tdsb.on.ca
|
| | |
|
| Please note this update is arriving early today as Yom Kippur begins at sunset. To all observing, Shana Tova and G'mar Chatima Tovah. And may we all be inscribed in the Book of Life.
| |
In this Issue -- Labour Negotiations Update
- From OPSBA - Orange Shirt Day and National Day for Truth and Reconciliation / Ministry of Education Communications & Informatio
- Spirit Bear's Calls to Actio
- Superintendents to Support Student Success in Mathematic
- School Council Innovation Grant 2023 - 2024
- Vaccinations Protect
- Professional Activity (PA) Days Update
- Board Meeting This Week
- Registration Open! PCP Conference
- New Invitations - Climate Change Education Conference for Secondary Students – From Crisis to Resilience: Empowering Youth for a Greener Future; Take Me Outside Day; Saturday International Languages Secondary Credit Program; Legislative Page Program - Applications Open!
- Worth Repeating - NCTR's Truth and Reconciliation Week - September 25-29; 2023 - 2024 Welcome Back School Council Town Hall; Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation; MusiCounts Grants Now Open; PollinateTO Grants; Youth in Policing Initiative; MYSP Ward Forum; Continuing Education Programming; TDSB Backpacks & School Supplies Drive; Model Parliament for High School Students; Fundraising Policy Consultation; Useful Links; We Have a Dog Problem; 2023-2024 Calendar; Community Safety & Support
| |
Labour Negotiations Updates
School boards and unions share a commitment to public education and work together towards positive labour relations. The collective bargaining framework for the education sector features a two-tier bargaining process, involving both central and local bargaining. Learn more about the process.
Information will continue to be updated on the website.
Please note on September 22, 2023 the Council of Trustees’ Associations/ School Board Associations (CTA) and the provincial government have successfully negotiated a tentative settlement on central terms of a collective agreement with the ETFO Education Workers. ETFO Education Workers are represented in 12 of OPSBA’s 31 member boards and one school authority. This does not affect the TDSB staff. Education workers in the TDSB are represented by CUPE.
| |
From OPSBA
Orange Shirt Day and National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
September 30, 2023, marks the third National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The creation of this federal statutory holiday was through legislative amendments made by the Parliament of Canada. On June 3, 2021, Bill C-5, An Act to amend the Bills of Exchange Act, the Interpretation Act and the Canada Labour Code (National Day for Truth and Reconciliation) received Royal Assent.
September 30 has been marked as Orange Shirt Day since 2013. Orange Shirt Day is an Indigenous-led grassroots commemorative day that honours the children who survived Indian Residential Schools and remembers those who did not. We honour First Nations, Métis, and Inuit children and communities impacted by this system. During Truth and Reconciliation Week, September 26 to 30, we encourage schools to participate in events offered by the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation.
Ministry of Education Communications & Information
Bill 98, The Better Schools and Outcomes Act, 2023
The Ministry of Education (EDU) is moving ahead on regulations and next steps stemming from Bill 98. For these, OPSBA’s Policy Development Work Group (PDWG) will be taking the lead on the Association’s responses and working with senior staff, member board senior staff and education partners. Our responses will also reflect our earlier submission: OPSBA-Bill-98-Response-Standing-Committee-on-Social-Policy.pdf
1. Director of Education Performance Appraisals
The PDWG members and alternates will be participating in a virtual consultation session next week with members of the ministry’s governance branch. The virtual meeting will be a ministry-led facilitation to answer and discuss the contents of a future regulation. In addition, there will be a regulatory posting on the Ontario's Regulatory Registry and this is expected by the end of the month. OPSBA will submit a formal response to the ministry following the consultation and also submit feedback to the online registry posting.
The feedback deadline for the above two postings is October 19, 2023 - OPSBA, the TDSB and the TLC will be submitting. Please feel free to also submit your thoughts.
| |
Spirit Bear's Calls to Action
Between 1879 and 1996, the Government of Canada took First Nations, Métis, and Inuit kids away from their families and homes and put them in residential schools. At residential school, kids were not allowed to speak their language or celebrate their culture and were often treated badly by the adults in charge of the schools... In 2008, a group called the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) was made. Their job was to listen to stories about residential schools and then write the stories down so we can learn from our mistakes. In 2015, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission announced their 94 Calls to Action. These are 94 activities all governments, courts, businesses, schools, and people living in Canada can do to help fix the mistakes of the past and present so that all children – including First Nations, Métis, and Inuit children – can grow up happy, healthy, safe, and proud of who they are. This booklet is written by Spirit Bear as a youth guide to the TRC’s 94 Calls to Action... Some problems seem big and hard to fix, but Spirit Bear’s mom – Mary the Bear – says the first step in fixing a problem is believing you can.
| |
Superintendents to Support Student Success in Mathematics
The TDSB received funding for two Superintendents of Education to support student success in Mathematics for the 2023-24 school year through a Priorities and Partnership Fund as part of the Ministry’s four year implementation of the provincial Math Strategy.
Superintendents Denise Humphreys and Lisa Dilworth were the selected to oversee this initiative. Please note we are very proud of Superintendent Humphreys for securing one of these positions and welcome Superintendent Kimberley Pividor to our Ward who will be supporting LN4. The math system superintendents will support educator teams and administrators by facilitating professional learning opportunities focused on:
- Teaching the elementary curriculum, de-streamed math, and the Grade 10 math curriculum addendum using high-impact instructional and assessment practices;
- Supporting student transitions from Grades 7 to 10, that include Individual Pathway Plans and information sharing about individual student needs (e.g., students with special education supports);
- Sharing effective practices in anti-discriminatory, anti-racist and culturally relevant and responsive pedagogy to lead cultural change in every elementary and secondary school to ensure equity and inclusion in the classrooms;
- Building a culture in schools where there is a high expectation that all students are capable and competent math learners;
- Working with School-Based Math Learning Partners to support targeted elementary and secondary schools;
- Facilitating parent engagement in their children’s math learning, including promoting ministry developed parent resources available on the Curriculum and Resources website; and
- Working collaboratively with central staff, superintendents, schools and communities to develop and implement the TDSB Math Strategy.
| |
School Council Innovation Grant 2023 - 2024
School Council Innovation Grant (SCIG) is a grant program for Councils to enhance innovation in engagement. Councils may apply for a maximum of $1,500.00 to improve and enhance the School Councils' work in addressing anti-Black, anti-Indigenous, anti-oppression equity, human rights, food security, belonging, mental health & and well-being, creating safe spaces, engaging in literacy and numeracy.
| |
Vaccinations Protect
Children have faced many disruptions during the #COVID19 pandemic. Routine vaccinations are important not only to protect against serious illnesses, but also to help keep kids and teens in school by reducing sick days and outbreaks in schools. Childhood vaccinations can help you do that. Routine vaccinations have been around for decades and are safe and proven to help protect against vaccine-preventable diseases. We’ve got the facts to help you make an informed decision. Please see this link. https://www.canada.ca/en/services/health/campaigns/childhood-vaccines.html.
Toronto Public Health is back in schools across #Toronto, helping students in grade 7 & 8 get back on track with their vaccines:
✔️Meningococcal
✔️Hep B
✔️HPV
And please watch for the new flu shot and COVID19 vaccines coming in October - along with the following precautions, they will add a layer of protection against respiratory viruses.
Toronto Public Health suggests the following simple steps to stay healthy this fall. These steps work better when used together:
- Stay up-to-date with your vaccinations for the best protection against getting very sick this respiratory season
- Even if you have had a recent COVID-19 infection, it’s still important to stay up-to-date with your COVID-19 vaccines. This gives you the added benefit of hybrid immunity
- It is recommended everyone consider wearing a high quality, well-fitting mask in crowded indoor public settings with poor ventilation, especially if you or people around you are at higher risk (such as seniors, those with a weak immune system, or young children)
- Socialize outdoors when possible – outdoors is lower risk than being indoors
- Stay home if you are sick or have symptoms of illness, even if they are mild. The symptoms for different respiratory viruses, such as COVID-19 and the flu, can look the same - if you have symptoms of COVID-19, get tested and treatment if you are eligible
- Wash or sanitize your hands often
- Cover your cough or sneeze with your elbow or a tissue
| |
Active Transportation - Bike to School!
Highlighting the efforts of a parent-led initiative that began in mid-April at Winona Senior Elementary Public School to encourage more students to cycle to school.
Bike Bus is a simple idea with many benefits. Students cycle to school one day a week in a group with friends and classmates under adult supervision. It’s sociable and fun. Students learn how to safely navigate city streets while getting some exercise before class.
The Winona Bike Bus that began last Spring, returned this fall. It is a three kilometre route that runs every Friday and continues until Remembrance Day. For students concerned about climate change, Bike Bus offers a simple way to reduce their carbon footprint one day a week. For student athletes, Bike Bus provides 40-minutes of cross-training exercise each week. For students needing more sleep, Bike Bus offers a chance to get up later on Fridays!
They are hoping more schools follow their lead. Do not hestitate to let me know should you wish more information and I will put you in touch with the organizers. Thank you Winona for leading the way! And if you have a local initiative to share with others, please send me an email!
| |
Professional Activity (PA) Days Update
During the school year, school staff participate in a number of Professional Activity (PA) Days. Beginning this school year, boards of education are now required to publicly share detailed information about PA Days, as outlined in Policy and Program Memorandum (PPM) 151.
As per the Ministry of Education, 2023-24 PA Days will focus on the priority areas of Literacy and Mathematics, Curriculum Implementation, and Student Well-being, School Safety and Violence Prevention. Additional topics identified by the TDSB will also be covered during PA Days. All information and details will be posted to www.tdsb.on.ca/PAdays at least 14 days in advance of the scheduled PA Day. IIf you have any questions, please speak to the Principal at your child’s school.
October 6 PA Day - Student Well-Being, School Safety, Violence Prevention and Compliance and Board-Mandated Training
| |
Board Meeting This Week
Wednesday, September 27, 2023 - Regular Board Meeting - 7:00 PM Public Session - Boardroom - Agenda
- 15.1 Letter From Trustee Malika Ghous Requesting a Leave of Absence
- 16.1 Finance, Budget and Enrolment, Report No. 14, September 12, 2023
1. Contract Awards, Facilities
2. Proposed 2024-25 Budget Development Schedule - 16.2 Audit Committee, Report No. 4, September 18, 2023
1. Annual Audit Committee Reports
2. Annual Committee Self Assessment and Assessment of Internal Audit
3. Whistleblower Program, 2022-23
4. Internal Audit Department Status Update, September 2023
5. Internal Audit Management 2023-24 Plan
6. School Operational Audits, 2022-23
7. Student Information System Data Migration Testing
8. Cyber Risk Assessment Process Review
9. Regional Internal Audit Team (RIAT) Engagement and Status Update
10. Audit Committee O. Reg 361/10 Requirements, Work Tracker - 16.3 Planning and Priorities, Report No. 9, September 20, 2023
1. Special Education Program Recommendation Committee Process
2. Special Education Advisory Committee: Membership
3. Provincial Capital Priorities Program 2023-2024
4. National School Boards Association Conference, 2024: Expense and Presentation Approval
5. Intentional Enhanced Efforts to Create Improved Levels of Kindness and Respect
6. Student Nutrition
7. Toronto Youth Cabinet Statement: Endorsement
Note - Advocacy Letters
| |
Registration Open! PCP Conference
Join us at our annual Parents and Caregivers as Partners Conference on October 21 and 22, 2023. Parents, guardians, and caregivers are invited to participate in a weekend of learning, connection, and engagement and to learn strategies to support your child throughout the year.
As last year, we have partnered with the TDSB’s Outdoor Education team and the City of Toronto to bring a unique experience to the conference. All of these in-person sessions are scheduled between 2:00 and 3:30 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday. Transportation from central sites is available to all venues, leaving the location at 1:00 p.m. and returning at 3:30 p.m. More information will be provided as we approach closer to the date.
The virtual conference includes a keynote address on Saturday, October 21, 2023, by Dr. Gholnescsar (Gholdy) Muhammad, an Associate Professor of Literacy, Language, and Culture. On, Sunday, October 22, 2023, Sarah Baldeo, an accomplished Neuroscientist, Technologist, corporate Strategist, and a successful Entrepreneur, will be our keynote.
| |
NCTR's Truth and Reconciliation Week - September 25-29
| |
Climate Change Education Conference for Secondary Students – From Crisis to Resilience: Empowering Youth for a Greener Future
All Secondary Schools are invited to bring a team of 4 students accompanied by a TDSB staff member to the annual Youth Climate Leadership Conference. This conference, will be held on October 4th or 5th at the Ontario Science Centre from 9:30-2:15 p.m. and aims to engage, connect and empower secondary school teams to take action on climate change. This year we are focusing on green jobs and skills needed for a sustainable future as well as for taking climate action now. Visit our webpage for more information. Registration is required.
| |
Take Me Outside Day
Only one more month until #TakeMeOutsideDay! Did you know each day of the week from Oct 16-20th has a theme? And we have speakers, activities & prizes for all of them!
| |
Saturday International Languages Secondary Credit Program
Earn a Secondary School Credit in an International Language️. Open to all high school students in Ontario. Register at http://creditprograms.ca for Portuguese, Greek, Korea and many other languages. Program runs from October 12, 2023 to June 1, 2024 - Saturdays from 9am-12pm.
| |
Legislative Page Program - Applications Open!
Applications for the spring 2024 term are now open until November 15th, 2023.
Each year approximately 150 young students from across Ontario are selected to participate in Ontario's Legislative Page Program. This unique educational program for Ontario students enrolled in Grade 7 or 8 at time of application with an academic average of Level 4 or 80 % (or higher). It provides an opportunity to experience the provincial legislature in action and forge new lifelong friendships with peers from all over the province. For more information https://www.ola.org/en/visit-learn/programs/about-page-program.
| |
2023 - 2024 Welcome Back School Council Town Hall
Please join us on Thursday, September 28, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. We will be hosting a Welcome Back Town Hall for School Council members, parents/caregivers, and Staff who are interested in learning about tools, resources, and upcoming opportunities for School Councils. The conversation will highlight:
- TDSB's standards of operations for School Councils
- School Council Communication Tools
- School Council Funding
Click on the link to register. If you require interpretation, please indicate this on your registration, no later than, Monday, September 25, 2023, at 12:00 p.m. (noon). For further inquiries, please contact PCEO@tdsb.on.ca.
| |
Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
September 30 is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Together we recognize the legacy of Canada’s residential school system and continue to learn the many truths of these institutions. During Truth and Reconciliation Week, September 25 to September 30, we encourage schools to participate in events offered by the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation.
Orange Shirt Day, established in 2013 by Phyllis Webstad, recognizes the legacy of the Residential Schools System for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit families and communities. By wearing orange, we acknowledge the truths of Residential Schools in Canada, we honour Survivors, and we remember the thousands of children who died, many of them buried in unmarked graves.
| |
MusiCounts Grants Now Open
MusiCounts invests in schools and community organizations through grants of up to $20,000 for instruments, equipment, and resources to ensure that kids have access to music education. Learn more about the funding streams, application process, and impact of these grants.
| |
Ready, set, plant! City of Toronto opens applications for its PollinateTO Grants
Applications are now open for the City of Toronto’s PollinateTO Grants program. Through the program, the City offers grants of up to $5,000 to support community-led initiatives that result in the creation or expansion of pollinator habitat on public and private lands in Toronto. A priority will be placed on funding projects in Toronto’s Neighbourhood Improvement Areas. Projects eligible for funding include those that create new pollinator habitat in green spaces, such as schoolyards and parks, and those that expand existing gardens with pollinator-friendly plants. Projects that create pollinator pathways (multiple gardens on a residential street) are also eligible for funding. Projects must be visible to the public and educate and/or engage the community. Community groups, not-for-profit organizations, student groups, parent councils, Indigenous groups and other resident-led groups are encouraged to apply. Applications will be accepted until Wednesday, October 25.
| |
Youth in Policing Initiative
The Toronto Police Service’s Youth in Policing Initiative program is currently hiring for the 2024 Winter/Spring After-School program! This program enhances the link between the police and the neighbourhoods we serve. This initiative gives young people an opportunity to develop job skills while fostering positive partnerships with the Toronto Police Service. Youth ages 15 to 18 who reside in the city of Toronto are employed through the summer and throughout the year, working alongside police officers and civilian staff in a wide range of roles. The program is not unique to Toronto, as it was created and funded by the Ministry of Children and Youth Services, and is now used throughout the province.
Our applications close on September 30th, 2023. Click here.
| |
TDSB is Renewing its Multi-Year Strategic Plan - Join our Ward Forum on October 3rd from 6:30-8:30
TDSB is Renewing its Multi-Year Strategic Plan
All members of the TDSB school community are invited to Have Your Say!
We encourage you to take advantage of the opportunities to contribute to the conversation. Learn more at: www.tdsb.on.ca/MYSPRenewal
Please REGISTER HERE to let us know you will be attending and if you require any accommodation to participate in this discussion.
| |
Continuing Education Programming
| |
TDSB Backpacks & School Supplies Drive
We know that backpacks and school supplies can be expensive and represent a difficult purchase for some students and families. I encourage you to participate in TDSB’s Backpack & School Supplies Drive. The drive will run until the end of September. We are accepting donations of new products, including backpacks (gender neutral coloured with no commercial logos preferred), lunch bags, crayons, calculators, notebooks and basic school supplies. If you are interested in supporting this great cause, please complete an online donation form. For more information contact BusinessDevelopment@tdsb.on.ca.
| |
Model Parliament for High School Students
Are you in Grade 10-12? Are you interested in the Legislative Process? Do you want the chance to debate your own legislation in the Legislative Chamber? Then sign up for our Model Parliament program. Applications will be accepted until October 15, 2023. See our website for more info: ow.ly/h5FE50JNXMA
| |
Fundraising Policy Consultation
The Fundraising Policy (P021) is currently being reviewed. It supports the TDSB’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and financial viability and promotes student learning opportunities when planning and implementing fundraising activities. The Policy is aligned with the Education Act and the Ministry of Education’s Fundraising Guidelines.
The objective of the Policy is to outline expectations and provide directions to TDSB staff and members of school communities when planning and implementing fundraising activities.
Please share with us your thoughts, questions and recommendations through the online survey or by email to businessdevelopment@tdsb.on.ca on or before October 10, 2023.
| |
We Have a Dog Problem
Current by-law rules don’t work for school grounds. As a result, many dog owners disregard our signage and don’t seem to care that children play on that same grass! With limited resources the TDSB must rely on dog owners to be responsible and unfortunately, so many aren’t.
Please respect children’s play spaces.
| |
2023-2024 Calendar
Please ensure you check these dates before scheduling events.
| |
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.
| |
|
|
|
|
