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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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Week of February 20, 2022
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"In a city of 3 million people and 200 ethno-cultural groups, residents have come together to protect each other. 2.7 million Torontonians have received a vaccine (91.1% of residents 12+). The story is one of remarkable unity. In my experience, for more than a year the “silent majority” have stood up through their actions. In Toronto, every day thousands of workers from across sectors have stepped up to administer vaccines. And every day, thousands of residents have stepped up to get their shots." - @joe_cressy via Twitter
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In this Issue:- Family Day 2022
- COVID-19 Update
- Update on Extracurricular Activities
- TDSB's Financial Position
- Preliminary Analysis of Grants for Students Needs (GSNs)
- Combatting Hate - Virtual Ward 8 Forum on March 7, 2022
- School Council Update from PIAC
- Committee and Special Board Meeting this Week
- TDSB System Calendar
- Revised School Year Calendar 2022-2023
- Policy Consultations - Naming Schools, Special-Purpose Areas, and Teams (P047)
- Key Dates - School Year Calendar 2022-23 (Proposed)
- New Invitations - Continued Education Updates; ADVANCE Canada's Black Music Business Collective Information Session; When Learning is Hard What do you do?
- Worth Repeating - February is African Heritage Month & Chinese Heritage Month; February is Kindergarten Registration; 2021-22 OPSBA Public Property Assessment Network Scholarship; Optional Attendance 2022-2023; Elections 2022 - Are You on the Voters Lists?; Respect the Rules - No Dogs Allowed on School Grounds
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Family Day 2022
For those of us lucky enough to be with our families this long weekend, we are truly blessed. I hope everyone receiving this Update enjoys tomorrow and gets the opportunity to also do something for yourself.
But we are acutely aware others are grieving.
On Monday, Director Russell-Rawlins made the following statement in response to the tragic death of Jahiem Robinson - "On behalf of the Toronto District School Board, I want to extend our sincere condolences to the student's family, friends and loved ones, along with the entire school community following this heartbreaking incident. We will be supporting the student’s family in every way possible and will be ensuring that students and staff are supported at the school in the days and weeks ahead. An incident like this raises questions about how something like this can happen inside a school. As we continue to assist Toronto Police with their investigation in any way we can, we will also undertake our own investigation."
To the family and friends of Jahiem and the entire David & Mary Thompson community, I add my deepest sympathy.
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COVID-19 UpdateI understand from Twitter that some parents in the Ward "are circulating signatures to urge dropping mask mandates in school. They also suggest each other to not wear masks during drop off and pick-up". Please know that although Dr Moore is quoted as saying “The worst is behind us, but there is an ongoing risk.” the provincial mask mandate has not been removed and TDSB's mask procedure is still in place - everyone has an obligation to follow the rules.
The Children's Health Coalition (including Sick Kids/CHEO/London Children's Hospital) support continued masking and reducing of contacts to protect kids and their health, given low vaccination rates for children 5-11 and the fact that children under 5 are still ineligible to be vaccinated. "We all have a part to play in keeping our children healthy." We will continue to monitor guidance from the Ministry of Education and Toronto Public Health.
And please continue to follow all public health measures - self-monitor, wear a mask that fits, wash your hands frequently, distance where possible and stay home if not feeling well. And above all, get vaccinated!
Revised Screening ToolToronto Public Health has updated their COVID-19 screening tool for children, students and adults for immediate use. Notably, this is now a single, universal screening tool for all ages – students and staff. There is also a significant change for people who have had a confirmed COVID-19 infection within the past 90 days and not needing to self-isolate if, for example, someone in the home has symptoms. And, the travel section refers directly to the federal travel pages as changes continue to be made.
One of the most important things we can all do to slow the spread of COVID-19 is to screen ourselves daily for symptoms and also follow the circumstances public health identifies you should stay home. Thank you for your continued support in keeping our schools and workplaces as safe and healthy as possible.
Need to Learn More?- Learn more about vaccines for children and youth, including how to book and prepare for your child's vaccination appointment (Ministry of Education)
- Visit the How to Get Vaccinated webpage by Toronto Public Health
- Kids Health First -- developed by the Children's COVID-19 Vaccine Advisory Table in Ontario - Although the recommended second dose is 8 weeks after the first dose, my understanding is parents can give informed consent for their child to receive their second dose sooner (5-11) or their booster (12-17) when they book at the provincial booking centre - 1-833-943-3900.
- Please see A Parent's Guide to Vaccination.
- Do you have questions about the COVID-19 vaccine for children and youth? You can book an appointment with the COVID-19 Vaccine Consult Service (VSC) to speak with a Registered Nurse to get answers to your questions. Appointments are available Monday to Friday.
- To cut through the confusion, family doctors have come together to help patients and the public make sense of the current COVID rules and realities. The 'Confused about COVID? Family doctors answer your questions' series offers patients and the public trustworthy advice about protecting their health and how family doctors can help.
- Learn from medical experts, all in one place. Get more information here https://parenthomework.ca/.
Vaccine Opportunities for Students
Children aged 5 to 11 years (must be 5 years old at time of vaccination) can receive their first or second dose in this kid-friendly environment. Individuals 12 years of age and older can receive their first, second or third (booster) dose. You can schedule an appointment to attend the clinic or you can walk-in without an appointment.
Instructions for booking -
- Go to the TDSB scheduling webpage https://schoolclinic.parentinterview.com .
- Enter this Access Code: city2022 and click "Sign In".
- Fill in your contact information and click "Continue to Make Appointments". Note: Parents/Guardians please select “Other” from the "Position" menu.
- Click on the Clinic Location that you want to schedule an appointment for.
- Click on the time at which you wish to have your appointment.
- Print out, email or copy down your schedule.
Vaccination Clinics in Schools this week -
- Tuesday, February 22: Rawlinson Community School, 3:30 pm – 8:30 pm
- Tuesday, February 22: John Polanyi Collegiate Institute, 3:30 pm – 8:30 pm
- Wednesday, February 23: Fairbank Memorial Community School, 4:00 pm - 8:30 pm
- Wednesday, February 23: Bishop Marrocco/Thomas Merton Catholic Secondary School, 3:30 - 8:30 pm
- Thursday, February 24: Silverthorn Collegiate Institute, 3:30 pm - 8:30 pm
- Thursday, February 24: Our Lady of Grace Catholic School, 4:00 pm - 8:30 pm
- Friday, February 25: Newtonbrook Secondary School, 3:30 pm - 8:30 pm
- Saturday, February 26: Bishop Allen Academy, 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
In addition to school-based local clinics, Councillor Matlow is co-hosting a vaccine clinic this Friday, February 25th and Saturday, February 26th from 10am - 4:30pm at 2213 Dufferin Street (Fairbank Memorial Community Center). Appointments Preferred / Walk-Ins Welcome - Contact: York-Fairbank Centre for Seniors 416-651-8300 / yorkfairbank@on.aibn.com.
If you have questions concerning vaccinating your child, please visit the Toronto Public Health website or call them at 416-338-7600.
Vaccine Opportunities for Staff Appointments for health clinics across the GTH can be scheduled through the dedicated FH Health booking website. The TDSB continues to work with Toronto Public Health and other local health partners to provide additional vaccine opportunities for staff.
Mental Health and Well-Being
Virtual office hours Tuesdays and Thursdays
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Update on Extracurricular Activities
With the provincial announcement the pause on high contact sports has been lifted and Toronto Public Health has given direction that their guidelines for schools will be aligned with the provincial directive. It is important to note that the new guidelines have no age restriction to participate in extracurricular activities. Previously only grade 7 and 8 students in elementary schools were allowed to participate in in-person extracurriculars. This announcement also expands the activities that can be taught in the classroom.
Both elementary and the secondary students may participate in up to two extracurricular cohorts. The number of cohorts that students are allowed to participate in will be reviewed after the March break.
Please note, however, that although the province now allows, these activities are still run by volunteer educators and depending on individual circumstances, it may take some time for these to be up and running in all schools.
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TDSB's Financial PositionAt the Finance, Budget and Enrolment Committee on February 16, staff presented the 2022-23 financial projection, which includes a forecasted deficit of $79.3M based on the assumption of a non-pandemic school year and no additional Ministry funding supports. It was clear Ministry funding that supports the TDSB’s pandemic and post-pandemic recovery is urgently needed to ensure stability for our system and to support the students of Toronto. Learn more by reading the 2022-23 Preliminary Financial Forecast.
At the same meeting, staff presented a draft of the Financial Facts: Revenue and Expenditure Trends report as of February 2022. This document represents the Toronto District School Board (TDSB)’s financial information for the 5-year period from 2017-18 to 2021-22. It focuses on TDSB’s key expenditure areas and identifies major operating costs and speaks to significant funding gaps.
"The TDSB has an annual operating budget of approximately $3.5 billion. Each year, Trustees and staff work together to pass a balanced budget. The TDSB is committed to the effective use of resources and reviewing and improving our financial controls across the system to ensure that every dollar spent has a positive impact on student achievement and well-being. While the TDSB remains committed to using these resources as responsibly as possible, the funding provided by the government does not fully meet the needs of students in Toronto. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has also added financial and resource pressures for the 2020-21 and 2021-22 school years. Read more about the gap between provincial funding and the money needed to support students on page 5."
Since the beginning of the pandemic, the Board has issued about 14 letters to the Minister of Education, asking for resources and funding to better support our students and staff. To date, we have not received a single response from the Ministry. Please note that these letters are posted online on tdsb.on.ca under Latest News.
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Preliminary Analysis of Grants for Students Needs (GSNs)
On Friday afternoon, the Ministry of Education announced the 2022-23 Grants for Students Needs (GSN) funding, Capital Funding, and Priorities and Partnership Funding, much earlier than in previous years.
Ministry Grants for Student Needs (GSN) are the province’s mechanism to determine funding to school boards based on formulas set out in regulations each year and are generated primarily by student enrolment. Since funding reflects enrolment, the Board must adapt its programs and organizational structure to reflect enrolment changes. For 2022-23, staff are projecting and enrolment decline - COVID-19 has impacted elementary school enrolment this year, with a decline of 4,953 students compared with the previous school year. And for 2022-23 a larger Grade 8 graduating cohort (16,590) is projected to be replaced by a smaller incoming JK cohort (14,608), thus contributing to the projected enrolment decline of 4,229. Secondary enrolment is projected to remain stable next year with a slight decrease of 230 students projected.
Staff have completed a high-level analysis of today’s announcement and have noted the significant funding changes:
- The Supports for Student Fund (also known as Investment in System Priorities funding) that was used for additional staffing supports will continue in 2022-23; the additional staffing supports from the 2021-22 COVID-19 funding (for the hiring of teachers, ECEs, EAs and other support staff) and the Recent Immigrant Supplement was introduced in the 2021-22 school year to help maintain ESL supports during the temporary decline in newcomer enrolment will also continue;
- The Ministry is providing an additional investment of $10M (provincial figure) for student mental health province-wide. Half of this amount will be used for evidence based mental health programs and resources to support student resilience and mental well-being. There will also be an increase of the mental health and well-being base amount and per pupil amount in the GSN;
- The announcement included an increase of $7.4M (provincial figure) to the Special Education Equipment (SEA) per pupil amount to support assistive technology for students with Special Education needs.Increase of $39.9M (provincial figure) in Broadband Network Operations support in the GSN to help support network connectivity, infrastructure and security needs.
- Salary benchmarks for Principals and Vice Principals will be increased as will benchmarks for non-staff school operations
- A 2% cost increase to the Student Transportation grant.
- Funding of $7.9M (provincial figure) to support additional costs of French as a Second Language initiatives.
- A slight funding increase anticipated from a change to the online learning credit load benchmark calculation. The percentage of secondary students taking one course online will be changed from 16% (as announced last year) to 15%.
In addition, a number of items will be transferred from Priorities & Partnership Fund (PPF) to the GSN including Supporting Student Mental Health allocation, Well-being and Positive School Climates allocation, Special Education PPF funding, Amenagement Linguistique initiatives, Parent Reaching Out (PRO) grants and the Learning and Innovation Fund for Teachers.
For more information on the GSNs and PPFs released today, please see the Ministry’s website.
As part of today’s funding announcement, the Ministry also released Ontario’s Learning Recovery Action Plan, which outlines a five-point plan to strengthen recovery in reading and math through tutoring supports, summer learning and mental health support.
Of note, school boards will be required to offer both elementary and secondary virtual learning as an option for the 2022-23 school year, and EQAO testing will also resume for students in Grade 3 and 6. The TDSB is awaiting further details around the virtual learning arrangement for next year including whether or not funding will be attached.
A more detailed analysis of the impact of this funding announcement to the TDSB’s budget will be completed once the Ministry releases the technical papers and EFIS forms (detailed grant calculation template). This information is expected to be released after the March break.
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Combatting Hate - Virtual Ward Forum March 7
I support what Bob Rae wrote on Twitter this afternoon -
A truck is not a speech. A horn is not a voice. An occupation is not a protest. A blockade is not freedom, it blocks the liberty of all. A demand to overthrow a government is not a dialogue. The expression of hatred is not a difference of opinion. A lie is not the truth.
Our children have been watching - how do we educate against hate?
Following the resources that were shared with educators last week to support their work in learning and addressing racism and hate, our next Virtual Ward 8 Forum will focus on Combatting Hate - How Educators Can Use Resources to Address Equity, Anti-Racism, Anti-Oppression on Monday, March 7, 2022 from 6:30 – 8:30pm.
Please join us for a panel discussion with an opportunity for Qs and As. The panel members will share their experiences, from both the classroom and system perspectives. The flyer can be downloaded for posting.
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School Council Updates from PIACSchool Council Bylaws
Feedback has been received from PIAC, Trustees, and school councils and the Parent Community Engagement Office (PCEO) have made some changes to the bylaws template for school councils including changing the deadline and making the parts not specifically required by Regulation 612 optional.
For those councils that had already begun filling out the bylaws template form. PCEO you will be contacted with information about the updates. The updated template should be live soon.
School Council Insurance
As of January 1, 2022, School Councils no longer need to purchase “School Council Insurance”. All School Councils, including their Executive Committee and Representative members are covered under the TDSB commercial general liability insurance program for all roles and responsibilities directly related to their respective School Council position. Volunteers are also covered when participating in a TDSB school “sanctioned” School Council activity or event.
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Committee and Special Board Meeting This Week
Wednesday, February 23 - Program and School Services Committee - 4:30pm - Agenda
- 5. Opportunity for Oral Updates From Co-Chairs of Community Advisory Committees
- 6. Staff Reports
- 6.1. Human Rights Reporting Portal Feasibility
- 6.2. 2022-2023 School Year Calendar: Revised
- 6.3. Spring 2022 Student Census Pilot and Fall 2022 System Launch
- 6.4. Virtual Learning for the 2022-23 School Year: Update - Oral Update
Thursday, February 24 - Special Board - 12 Noon - Agenda
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TDSB System Calendar
There are many ways for parents/guardians and school community members to get involved, learn, connect and participate in TDSB activities and events. Visit this page often and see what's coming up!
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Revisions to Proposed 2022-23 School Year Calendar (TBC)- The first day of class for all students is Wednesday, September 7, 2022
- The last day of class for elementary students is June 30, 2023
- The last day of class for secondary students is June 28, 2023
Based on changes the government announced last week, revisions needed to be made to the proposed 2022-23 school year calendar. The Ministry directed Boards to have a PD Day before September 15, 2022 so teachers can be in-serviced on a new Mandatory Child Abuse Prevention Program. Staff are bringing a revised recommendation to PSSC moving the PD at the end of the year to the beginning. If recommended, it will advance to Special Board on Thursday - and if approved we expect the province to confirm within a few weeks.
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Policy Consultations - Naming Schools, Special-Purpose Areas, and Teams (P047)
Please read the current draft of the proposed policy and complete the survey. You are welcome to provide your comments, including suggestions on the wording and provisions of the draft policies, questions or recommendations using the contact information below.
Objective: To establish guiding principles and criteria for the naming and renaming of schools, special-purpose areas, and teams consistent with the Board’s Mission, Values and Goals Policy (P002) and the Equity Policy (P037) commitments.
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Continuing Education Programs Learn4Life
Registration for Learn4Life courses (General Interest Programs for Adults 18+ and Seniors) opens February 23. For information regarding classes, please visit www.learn4life.ca to view the Learn4Life -Frequently Asked Questions. Registration opens on the website: Wednesday, February 23, 2022 at 8:30 AM. Classes Begin: Saturday, March 26, 2022.
In our efforts to accommodate learners who are not able to register using the online registration system, the Learn4Life team can make arrangements for in-person registration, by appointment only, starting Wednesday February 23, 2022. Learners scheduled for an appointment will be required to complete the COVID-19 Screening Self-Assessment Questionnaire prior to entering the TDSB building. Everyone must follow the Toronto Public Health Guidelines by wearing a mask and physically distancing. Appointments can be scheduled by emailing us at communityprograms@tdsb.on.ca with the subject line: In-person Accommodation.
International Languages Elementary & African Heritage Programs
International Languages Elementary & African Heritage Program is an enriching learning experience for K-8 students to learn a new language and discover other cultures. Open to all TDSB and non-TDSB students, programs are currently offered online and there is no language background necessary. Registration is ongoing and can be done online by visiting www.ileprograms.ca.
Adult ESL
Starting in February, we anticipate a gradual opening of classes for in-person learning at several locations across the city, subject to Toronto Public Health Guidelines. Masking and social distancing protocols will be implemented. Online classes will continue to be available as an option for learners. For more information, please visit: www.ESLToronto.ca or call 416-338-4300.
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ADVANCE Canada's Black Music Business Collective Information Session
The Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement in collaboration with ADVANCE Canada's Black Music Business Collective invites Black identifying-students in Grades 11 and 12 who are interested in career opportunities in the music industry to attend the ADVANCE information session: February, 28 2022, 6-7PM. Register https://bit.ly/cebsaadvanceinfo.
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When Learning is Hard What do you do?
Northern School Council is hosting a presentation by two engaging experts in the field of learning differences on March 1 at 7pm. The presentation is not age-specific and addresses how to support students with learning differences of all ages, whether identified or not.
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Questions About COVID-19
Sinai Health Foundation invites you to join us for a virtual panel taking place on Tuesday, March 8 from 1:00 - 2:00 p.m., hosted by Melanie Ng of Breakfast Television and City News. This virtual session will feature an expert panel, including Dr. Erin Bearss, Dr. Andrew Morris, and Dr. Howard Ovens answering the most common questions surrounding COVID-19 and what to expect as we approach March Break and the Spring season. Tuesday, March 8, 2022 from 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. RSVP Now.
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February is African Heritage Month & Chinese Heritage Month
During the month of February, the Toronto District School Board proudly recognizes African Heritage 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 2021-2022 is NIA: Walking in Our Purpose. Learn more. Follow AfricanHeritage365 @tdsbAfricanHM
The Toronto District School Board is proud to recognize Chinese Heritage Month (CHM) during the month of February. We encourage everyone to participate and make our Chinese Heritage Month spectacular. This year’s theme is Year of the Tiger – Brave, Compassionate, Adventurous, and Optimistic. Learn more. Follow Chinese Heritage Month @tdsbChineseHM.
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2021-22 OPSBA Public Property Assessment Network Scholarship
The Ontario Public School Boards’ Association (OPSBA) is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the third and final year of our Public Property Assessment Network Scholarship. This scholarship will be awarded in the amount of $1,000 to one recipient in the OPSBA Central East Region, which includes the TDSB, for three school years – 2019-20, 2020-21, and 2021-22. Scholarship recipients are students of strong character, who care deeply about their communities and furthering their own learning.
The deadline for receipt of application packages is May 20, 2021. Please seed details in the attached flyer.
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February is Kindergarten Registration Month
Registration for all TDSB Kindergarten programs (except French Immersion) is on now. You may choose to register using the online registration system or Virtual Face to Face, via Zoom.
Children who will be four by December 31, 2022, can start Junior Kindergarten in September 2022. Please note: Only parents or legal guardians can register a child for TDSB programs. Find your school.
There is a separate process to apply for optional attendance. Please contact alternative schools or elementary academies directly for more information about requirements and the registration process.
Please also note the application for the Early French Immersion program was in November and is complete for September 2022. More information available at www.tdsb.on.ca/french.
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Optional Attendance 2022-2023
Students who reside within the City of Toronto have the right to attend a school which is designated to serve their residential address. The "Find Your School" section of the website identifies the designated schools for each residential address. Students also have the opportunity to access schools outside of the school that is designated to serve their residential address by applying on optional attendance. Acceptance at these schools is subject to space availability and program suitability. Most schools in Ward 8 are closed to Optional Attendance.
Elementary Optional Attendance – Key Dates:
- March 04, 2022 Deadline for parents/guardians to be informed of the status of the application request
- March 25, 2022Parents/guardians must inform the requested school of their acceptance of the offer
Secondary Optional Attendance – Key Dates:- February 22, 2022 Parents/guardians must inform the requested school of their acceptance of the offer via email and submit course selections via MyBlueprint
Tkaronto Indigenous Youth Council
Calling all First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students! Join the Tkaronto Indigenous Youth Council (TIYC), a group of Indigenous youth from across the TDSB that come together to make positive change in their community and support one another in the process. See link for details.
Free Skills Upgrading Classes for Adults in Toronto
Community Services is operating free Essential Skills Upgrading (ESU) classes remotely for adults in the community. Individuals seeking to upgrade math, reading/writing or computer skills so they can pursue more education or employment should visit upgrademyskills.ca.
English Instruction for Adult Newcomers with Free Childcare
The TDSB’s Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) classes is the largest LINC provider in Canada. All sites provide free care for newcomer children, so adult newcomers can gain English instruction without worrying about costly childcare. Visit linctoronto.ca to learn more.
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Elections 2022 - Are You on the Voter List?
The upcoming year will be a busy one for Ontario voters, with the Ontario Provincial Election and Municipal and School Board Elections happening just a few months apart. Are you on the voter's list?
For the Ontario Election on June 2, 2022. Ontario residents can visit Elections Ontario - Voter Registration to add, update or confirm your information on the voters list for individuals who are 18 years of age or older, Canadian citizens and residents of Ontario; Register of Absentee Voters for voters temporarily living outside Ontario who intend to return to the province; or Ontario Register of Future Voters for eligible 16- and 17-year-olds who will be automatically added to the voters list when they turn 18.
For the 2022 Municipal and School Board Elections on October 24, 2022, Ontario residents can visit Voterlookup.ca at any time to find out whether their information is accurately reflected for inclusion on the Preliminary List of Electors for the 2022 Municipal and School Board Elections. Eligible electors can also update their information, add a name to an address, or change their school support for electoral purposes. Let's be ready.
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Respect the Rules - No Dogs Allowed on School Grounds
Dogs are not allowed on school property at any time. Many people are surprised to learn that City of Toronto By-Laws and TDSB Policy prohibit dogs (leashed or unleashed) being on school property.
Please respect children’s play spaces. And please do not verbally abuse TDSB caretaking staff - I am hearing that when members of the public and caretakers onsite try and inform dog owners, they are met with threats and intimidation.
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School Year Calendar 2021-2022- The last day of class for elementary students is June 30, 2022
- The last day of class for secondary students is June 29, 2022
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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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