| Trustee Update James Li • Ward 13: Don Valley North
Toronto District School Board
416-395-8787 • James.Li@tdsb.on.ca |  |
 | |
|
Clayton La Touche Appointed TDSB Director of Education
I'm excited to share that Clayton La Touche will be the new TDSB Director of Education starting February 10, 2025. He began his career with the TDSB in 1994 before taking on roles at the Ministry of Education and York Region District School Board. Clayton is known for being a collaborative leader who cares deeply about student success and well-being. His appointment follows a thorough four-month search process led by the Trustee Director Search Committee. I want to thank Stacey Zucker for her excellent work as Interim Director during the transitional period. Read the full update here.
| |
Tamil Heritage Month – January 2025
We are excited to celebrate Tamil Heritage Month this January! Since 2016, the TDSB has proudly recognized Tamil Heritage Month. This year’s theme is inspired by the Tamil philosopher Kaniyan Pungundranar: "Kinship: யாதும் ஊரே யாவரும் கேளிர் // Yaadhum Oore Yaavarum Kelir" – "To us, all towns are one, and all people are our kin."
Throughout January, various educational opportunities will be offered to students to learn about Tamil history, customs, and traditions. I encourage all members of the TDSB community to explore the theme of kinship and interconnectedness this month. Learn more by reading the full message for Tamil Heritage Month 2025.
| |
Kindergarten Registration Now Open
Registration for all English Kindergarten programs is NOW OPEN. Children who will be four by December 31, 2025, are eligible to start Junior Kindergarten in September 2025. We cannot wait to welcome these young learners to TDSB schools!
| |
January Applications for TDSB Programs
It is application season at the TDSB! There are numerous programs with January 31, 2025, application deadlines for the 2025-26 school year. Please click the links below to learn more:
| |
Out-of-Area Admissions Close January 31
TDSB students can attend schools outside their designated area through the Out-of-Area Admissions process. This program allows families to choose schools that best fit their children's needs, whether it's for specialized programs, proximity to childcare, or other reasons. Click the following links to learn how to apply for the elementary process before January 31 and secondary process before January 24, 2025.
| |
Secondary Schools Without a Boundary
The TDSB offers a unique opportunity for students to attend secondary schools without being limited by geographic boundaries. This means students can apply to schools that best fit their interests and educational goals, regardless of where they live. These schools provide a wide range of programs, from technical and commercial courses to university preparation. Secondary Schools Without a Boundary applications for the 2025-26 school year close on January 24, 2025.
| |
Student Trustees Election
Do you have a young leader in your life who wants to better the education system? Do you know a high school student interested in government? If so, you should let them know the TDSB Student Trustees Election will take place on February 26 and 27, 2025.
Students in grades 10 and 11 are eligible to apply and will be emailed the necessary information in the coming days. Before applications open on January 23, interested candidates are required to attend a virtual Student Trustee Information Session on January 15. The Board of Trustees looks forward to welcoming a new group of changemakers!
| |
Special Education and Inclusion Transitions Supports Website
The new Transition Supports website is designed to assist students and families in navigating important transitions, including entry to school, moving from grade to grade, transitioning from elementary to secondary school, and from secondary school to post-secondary pathways. Families are encouraged to connect with their child’s teacher or principal for more specific transition information tailored to their child's needs.
| |
2024-25 Winter Well-Being Guide
The TDSB Mental Health and Well-Being Committee is happy to share the 2024-25 Winter Well-Being Guide. It has tips and resources to help students and families stay healthy and happy during the winter. The guide is available in multiple languages and includes special support for students with disabilities and complex needs. Check it out on the TDSB website and share it to help everyone stay well this winter!
| |
Director's Annual Report
Are you looking for some good news to brighten your day? The 2024 TDSB Director’s Annual Report highlights some incredible achievements and initiatives that are making a real difference in our communities. From early learning programs to mental health support, and from STEM education to arts and creativity, there is something for everyone. Discover how we are supporting every student's success and shaping the future of education in Toronto. Read the full report to learn more about our exciting progress and plans!
| |
Trustees Advocate for Toronto Youth Employment Program
In a recent letter to the City of Toronto, TDSB Chair Neethan Shan emphasized the importance of a Toronto Youth Employment Program in helping young people build hands-on skills and gain valuable work experience. Over 30,000 youth from every TDSB ward participated in a postcard campaign to express their support for this initiative! We are hopeful that City Council will approve this motion and work collaboratively with the TDSB and other community partners to ensure the successful implementation of the Toronto Youth Employment Program. Together, we can create a brighter future for the young people of Toronto
| |
Official Social Media Channels
I encourage all social media users to follow the TDSB accounts for the latest news and updates. You can find us on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Threads. If you are on Bluesky, be sure to follow the new TDSB account for another great way to stay connected!
| |
| Celebrate Spring: Youth Talent Show
| |
Winter Weather and Student Transportation
From time to time, it may be necessary to cancel student transportation, classes and/or programs because of severe weather. On rare occasions, severe weather makes it necessary to close schools, administrative offices, or sites.
Should a cancellation or closure be necessary, information will be posted on the TDSB website and TDSB social media by 6 a.m. I encourage you to visit the website to learn about Snow/Cold Weather and the Procedure for Severe Weather.
| |
Winter Outerwear Drive
As winter approaches, many families in our community need warm clothing. That is why the TDSB has once again organized a Winter Outerwear Drive to collect funds for coats, hats, gloves, and boots for students. Find more information and the donation link on the Winter Outerwear Drive page.
| |
Reduce the Spread of Respiratory Infections
During this respiratory virus season, I encourage you to review tips from Toronto Public Health (TPH) to help prevent the spread of infections in schools and communities. Here are a few suggestions from TPH to help keep everyone safe:
- Stay up to date with vaccinations: Ensure you and your family are protected against influenza, COVID-19, and other respiratory infections by getting vaccinated.
- Stay home if you are sick: If you have symptoms of illness, even if they are mild, stay home and wear a mask for 10 days after symptoms start.
- Practice good hygiene: Wash or sanitize your hands often, cover your cough or sneeze with your elbow or a tissue, and clean frequently touched surfaces.
By following these steps, we can all play a part in reducing the spread of respiratory viruses and keeping our communities healthy.
| |
Learn4Life
This winter, why not join thousands of adults and seniors in discovering new skills and interests with our fantastic general interest courses and senior programs? These amazing opportunities are brought to you by the TDSB Learn4Life Program. Winter registration is now open, and courses kick off on January 11, 2025. Visit learn4life.ca to learn more and register today for both in-person and online programs.
| |
Virtual Drop-In Hours: Pathways to Care for Mental Health
Did you know the TDSB offers drop-in hours for educational presentations that provide the knowledge and tools necessary to support the well-being of students at home and in school? Visit the TDSB website to view session dates and themes.
| |
Special Education and Inclusion 2024-25 Drop-In Sessions
Special Education and Inclusion is pleased to offer drop-in sessions for parents, guardians, and caregivers. These sessions aim to provide information and resources for accessing special education supports and services. Participants can ask questions, share experiences, and connect with other families in a friendly environment. Please see the flyer for upcoming dates, times and links.
| |
Questions and Concerns
Here at the TDSB, we are always open to hearing your questions and concerns and make every effort to address them as quickly as possible. Your child's classroom teacher is the first point of contact, followed by the school's principal, the school superintendent, and me, your Trustee! Learn more about Steps to Address Questions and Concerns here.
| |
Upcoming Meetings
The next Regular Board Meeting will be held on Wednesday, January 22, 2025. For a list of upcoming meetings, please click on the calendar at tdsb.on.ca.
| |
|
Follow the TDSB
Join the conversations happening on TDSB's social media communities. You'll find the most up-to-date information about us on our Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram accounts.
| |
|
|
|
|
