November 3, 2024

Throughout the month of November, students, staff, and community members honour a number of important days to deepen knowledge, to learn from our shared histories, and to strengthen relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Peoples.  

It is important that we remember to centre First Nations, Métis, and Inuit perspectives, voices, histories, and contemporary realities across the TDSB every day.

This month places emphasis on creating opportunities to learn from Indigenous perspectives on treaties, leadership, achievements, resurgence, futurities, and creativity. 

The TDSB is committed to the implementation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action (TRC) and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. 

Below is a list of significant dates throughout the month of November:

The Urban Indigenous Education Centre will host virtual events to support students and staff to learn from Indigenous Peoples.  Resources can be found on the Urban Indigenous Education Centre website.

On Monday October 28, 2024 we got together with our local Family of School (FOS) Superintendents for a joint Ward 8 & 11 Forum – Cassandra Alviani-Alvarez FOS 6, Jane Phillips-Long (A)/Alex Tracey (A) FOS 7, John Currie FOS 8 , Jennifer Chan FOS 10, Peter Chang FOS12, Kurt McIntosh FOS13, Nadira Persaud FOS14 & Executive Superintendents Jack Nigro (LC1) and Elizabeth Addo (LC2).

Please click on the deck for information provided at the Ward Forum - Joint Ward Forum - Ward 8 and 11 Meet and Greet Presentation.

The Toronto District School Board is committed to developing opportunities for our wider school community to connect and engage in conversations about education issues. Meetings will be broadcasted live to the public. Click here at the start time to view - https://www.tdsb.on.ca/Leadership/Boardroom/Live-Webcast-of-Meetings.

Full Agenda and Reports for meetings are available here - click on the appropriate meeting https://www.tdsb.on.ca/Leadership/Boardroom/Agenda-Minutes

Regular Board Meeting - Wednesday, November 6, 2024 @ 7:00 PM, Boardroom, Main Floor, 5050 Yonge Street, Toronto - Agenda

The application to the Early French Immersion program will remain an online process and applications must be completed online between November 4 and November 29, 2024. 

An offer of placement in the program (not a specific school) is guaranteed to all on-time applicants. Families with an older sibling currently in an Early French Immersion program at the same school are still required to complete an online application for the new student. For more information, please visit: Application Early French Immersion.

At any time, please visit the TDSB French Language Programs webpage to view a video that provides information about the TDSB French Language programs, as well as, the application and placement process in the Early French Immersion and the Middle French Immersion programs. More information about the Early Immersion Program is available in 22 languages, or view the application video. 

November is the start of the Grade 8 to 9 Transition period. Over the next few months, secondary schools will be hosting Open Houses and Information Nights for current Grade 8 students and their parents/guardians and caregivers. You should be receiving information from your school - but the information and links below will assist Grade 8 students and families in planning for a smooth transition from Grade 8 to 9:

Open Houses and Information Sessions

TDSB Beyond 8 website

Beyond 8 Frequently Asked Questions & Answers

Elementary Out-of-Area Admissions website - Online application form is open from January 6 to January 31, 2025 at 4 p.m.

Secondary Out-of-Area Admissions website - Online application form open from January 6 to January 24, 2025 at 4 p.m.

Secondary Schools without a Boundary

 

Central Student Interest Programs: The TDSB offers over 50 programs with a particular focus. These programs are for anyone who demonstrates an interest and passion in the particular program area. This year, students can apply to 1 primary program. Applicants can choose to include an alternate choice. Alternate choices will only be considered after all primary applicants from the city of Toronto have been accommodated. The two choices could be two schools offering the same type of program or two different types of programs. 

Please note there is no sibling priority associated with Central Student Interest Programs, either when siblings are applying in the same grade, or when a second sibling applies to attend the same program that an older sibling already attends. 

Application for CSIP programs opens on November 4, 2024 and closes on November 22 at 4 p.m.  

Central Student Interest Programs website

 

Elementary Alternative Schools Online Application Process 

Did you know the TDSB offers a wide range of Elementary Alternative Schools available to students? The application process is managed centrally and includes an online application form. Complete information about the central online application process is available on the Elementary Alternative Schools Application and Admissions Process webpage.  

The online application for admission for September 2025 will be open from Monday, January 6, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. to Friday, January 31, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. 

We encourage you to take part in information sessions and/or open houses for students and parents/guardians/caregivers in late November 2024 to mid-January 2025. More information is available on the Elementary School Open Houses and Information Nights webpage.  

TDSB staff is hosting two Elementary Alternative Schools live webinars, including one daytime and one evening session. Registration is required, and a recording of the webinars will be posted on the Elementary Alternative Schools Application and Admissions Process webpage. 

Register here:

Daytime Session - Tuesday, November 26 from 1:00PM to 2:00PM

Evening Session - Tuesday, November 26 from 7:00PM to 8:00PM 

 

Students with Special Education Needs

Students with an exceptionality for whom a change in setting or program is being considered for grade 9 will be discussed at the Annual IPRC Review. Students with an Individual Education Plan (IEP) and no formal identification, will be discussed at the School Support Team (SST) meeting. Please note this meeting will occur with the parent(s)/guardian(s)/caregiver(s).

Supporting the Grade 8 to 9 Transition for Students with Special Education Needs
Virtual sessions for Parents/Caregivers - November 4th and December 3rd
Register here 

General Qs & As

Where can I find the Open House and Information Night details? Open House and Information Night details for TDSB schools are available at www.tdsb.on.ca/High-School/Going-to-High-School/Open-Houses-and-Information-Nights 

Where can I find the Beyond 8 Video? The Beyond 8 video can be found on the Beyond 8 Webpage: www.tdsb.on.ca/High-School/Going-to-High-School/Beyond-8

Where can I find a recording of the Preparing for High School webinars? The recordings of the webinars can be found on the TDSB Guidance Webpage: www.tdsb.on.ca/High-School/Guidance

How do I get to the myBlueprint website? You can access the myBlueprint website at www.myblueprint.ca/tdsb. For step-by-step instructions from myBlueprint about how to complete the Grade 8 Course Selection, click the following link: https://education.myblueprint.ca/tdsbgrade8/

How can I find my designated school by address (home school)? Please go to the TDSB website and Find Your School - By Address: www.tdsb.on.ca/Find-your/School/By-Address 

How can we apply to our home school? Students do not need to "apply" to attend their designated school by address (home school). Students attending their home school complete their course selection in myBlueprint.

What is the difference between a secondary school, technological programming school and a commercial school? Some addresses have multiple secondary schools listed including a Secondary school (regular program), Technological Programming, and/or Commercial School. The regular program secondary school will provide a full complement of courses for students to earn their OSSD and have a rich high school experience. In addition to offering a full range of courses supporting all post-secondary destinations, schools designated as Technological Programming schools will also have courses and facilities for students to take technology courses. Likewise, a school designated as the Commercial School will also have a full complement of business courses available for students to take. Students have the option of attending any of the listed schools. If a student selects a school listed as the Technological Programming school, they will have to take a package of technology courses each year throughout their high school career. Students who select a Commercial School will have to take a package of business courses over the four years of high school. Once you have been admitted to a secondary school, you are expected to attend that school until graduation. If you wish to attend a different listed school, you will have to apply through Out-of-Area Admissions. Families are encouraged to attend open houses to help make decisions about which school to attend when they have multiple options.

Why do some addresses not have technology/commercial options? Not all addresses are close to schools that offer a Technological Program or Commercial Program. These options were predominantly offered in the former city of Toronto Board of Education. All students can apply to attend technological schools in the board. Students can also access schools through the Facilitated Access to Skilled Trades (F.A.S.T.) process (https://www.tdsb.on.ca/High-School/Going-to-High-School/Specialist-High-Skills-Major-SHSM/Facilitated-Access-to-Skilled-Trades-FAST).

What is a feeder school? A feeder school is an elementary school where the majority or large number of its students attend one secondary school based on address of residence. The elementary school then feeds into the secondary school.

Where can I find the schools that have Central Student Interest programs? TDSB Secondary Central Student Interest programs and schools can be found at www.tdsb.on.ca/High-School/Going-to-High-School/Secondary-Central-Student-Interest-Programs

Where can I find the 2023-24 Choices Guide? There are currently two Choices digital magazines - Choices: Planning for Grade 9 contains information about course types and the diploma requirements. It also explains other relevant opportunities that will be available throughout high school and Choices: Secondary Program Guide will help you explore the many programs available in TDSB secondary schools.

Are there Guidance Counselors/Elementary Itinerant Counselors available to support Grade 8 students? There are Elementary Guidance Teachers who are supporting Grade 8 students with the Grade 8 to 9 transition process. Students can also get support from their Grade 8 teachers. 

Is there a timeline available? A year at a glance timeline can be found on our Beyond 8 Website: www.tdsb.on.ca/High-School/Going-to-High-School/Beyond-8#year-at-a-glance

What are the new online graduation requirements? Information about the online graduation requirements can be found: www.tdsb.on.ca/High-School/GradesExamsDiplomas/Getting-your-Diploma/Online-Learning-Requirement

Can students apply to attend Virtual Secondary School next year? At this time, no decision has been made regarding virtual learning for the 2024-2025 school year at the Toronto District School Board.

What e-Learning course is available in the summer to help my child prepare for Grade 9? Grade 8 students entering Grade 9 in September 2024 can only apply for the GLD2OE Reach Ahead Credit in either the months of July or August. This course will enhance their literacy and numeracy skills, increase their essential skills and personal development, be supported in their transition to secondary school and develop friendships through positive relationship building. Please visit the e-Learning website for more information about the e-Learning opportunities to take this course. More information can be found at www.creditprograms.ca regarding the in-person opportunities to take this course.

 

Central Student Interest Programs (CSIP) Qa & As

How many Central Student Interest Programs can I apply to? This year, students can apply to 1 primary program. Applicants can choose to include an alternate choice. Alternate choices will only be considered after ALL primary applicants from the city of Toronto have been accommodated. The two choices could be two schools offering the same type of program or two different types of programs.

Can students with Individual Education Plans (IEPs) or exceptionalities apply to the Central Student Interest programs? Yes, students who have Individual Education Plans or exceptionalities may apply to the Central Student Interest Program. They will continue to have an IEP and would have regular class placement with either indirect or withdrawal assistance (access to GLE) support. Intensive Support Programs (ISPs) are assigned support staff to be shared by all students attending the program. If a child opts to leave an ISP for a Central Student Interest Program the support staff assigned to the program will not follow. 

If a student is in a gifted program, will applying to a Central Student Interest Program impact their ability to continue in a gifted high school program if they don’t get in? No, a student may apply to a Central Student Interest Program. If they get accepted into, and choose to attend, the Central Student Interest Program they will discontinue in their ISP program placement.

If I’m applying to a central student interest program, do I need to fill out an out-of-area form as well? No. These are two separate applications and processes. No Out-of-Area Admissions form is required for Central Student Interest Programs.

Are all CSIP in-person, or are there virtual options? All Central Student Interest Programs are in-person.

I have 2 children going into Grade 9 and both are interested in the same Arts school. Will they be accommodated in this random selection process so that they may both go to the same school? There is no sibling priority associated with Central Student Interest Programs, either when siblings are applying in the same grade, or when a second sibling applies to attend the same program that an older sibling already attends. 

If your designated high school offers one of the Central Student Interest Programs you are interested in, do you still need to apply? Yes. All applicants are required to apply for Central Student Interest Programs, whether they live in the local area or not.

What should my child do for their Expression of Interest? There is no right or wrong way to approach completing the Expression of Interest. Your child is encouraged to find the best way to share their love, curiosity and passion for the program they are applying to. It can be written, recorded or photographed. More details about Expressions of Interest can be found on the Expression of Interest website:  Secondary: www.tdsb.on.ca/High-School/Going-to-High-School/Secondary-Central-Student-Interest-Programs/Expression-of-Interest Elementary: www.tdsb.on.ca/Elementary-School/School-Choices/Elementary-Central-Student-Interest-Programs/Expression-of-Interest

Could my child’s Expression of Interest be deemed insufficient? Each Expression of Interest must make reference to or be directly connected to the Central Student Interest Program applied for. If a child expresses that they do not want to attend the program, that would make the applicant ineligible. All applicant submissions must adhere to TDSB policies regarding Human Rights, Discrimination and Hate. Submissions. Expressions of Interest that contravene these policies will be addressed and the applications will be deemed ineligible. 

What happens if my child does not share access to their Expression of Interest correctly? Central Staff will be reviewing the Expressions of Interest. If they cannot access the submitted file, they will email both the applicant and the parent/guardian to request access. They will provide brief instructions on how to “share” the file. Where possible, a second reminder email will be sent. All Expressions of Interest must be submitted/shared by the application deadline of November 24.

 

Out of Area Admissions Qs & As

Out of Area Admissions Information regarding Out of Area Admissions can be found at www.tdsb.on.ca/Find-your/School/Out-of-Area-Admissions

What happened to Optional Attendance? The Out of Area Admissions procedure and the Central Student Interest Program procedure have replaced what was known as Optional Attendance. Information regarding Out of Area Admissions can be found at www.tdsb.on.ca/Find-your/School/Out-of-Area-Admissions. Information about the Secondary Central Student Interest Programs, please visit  www.tdsb.on.ca/High-School/Going-to-High-School/Secondary-Central-Student-Interest-Programs. These are now two separate applications, open at different times.

What are the key Out of Area Admissions Dates? The Secondary Out-of-Area Admissions Key Dates can be found at https://www.tdsb.on.ca/Find-your/School/Out-of-Area-Admissions/Secondary

How many schools can a student apply to through the Out-of-Area Admissions Process? A student may apply for one (1) regular program outside of their designated attendance area through Out-of-Area admissions. It may be for either Regular (English) programming or French where applicable. Only students already currently enrolled in French programming (or pre-registered for JK / Grade 4 entry) can apply for a French program through Out-of-Area Admissions.

Can a student apply to a school through the Out-of-Area Admissions process AND a Central Student Interest Program? Out-of-Area admissions and Central Student Interest Programs are two separate applications and open at different times. Students can apply to one (1) Out-of-Area school and one (1) Central Student Interest Program. Applicants may include an alternate choice in their Central Student Interest Program application. Information regarding Out of Area Admissions can be found at www.tdsb.on.ca/Find-your/School/Out-of-Area-Admissions Information about the Secondary Central Student Interest Programs, please visit www.tdsb.on.ca/High-School/Going-to-High-School/Secondary-Central-Student-Interest-Programs

How do I access the Out of Area Admissions application? This form will be available online on January 8th. Please click on the this link to for more information: www.tdsb.on.ca/Find-your/School/Out-of-Area-Admissions

 

French Language Programs Qs & As

If my child is already in a French immersion program do they have to apply for the secondary program their school feeds to or is it automatic? If your child is attending the French Immersion program school that serves your home address, they will flow to the next school on the pathway. Your current school will aid with this process. 

Can I begin French Immersion/Extended French at Grade 9? No. Students who will continue French Immersion or Extended French began in either Kindergarten, Grade 4 or Grade 7. There is no entry to French Immersion or Extended French at Grade 9. Students who complete the elementary Early French Immersion or Extended French program through grade 8 may choose to continue that program at the designated pathway school for French Immersion or Extended French.

How do I determine my French Immersion/Extended French secondary school? Every elementary FI/EF school has a designated pathway school for secondary. Please find pathway information here: www.tdsb.on.ca/Elementary-School/School-Choices/French-Programs/Pathways

What if I am at my elementary French Immersion/Extended French program as an out-of-area (formerly optional attendance) student? If the FI/EF school you are attending in Grade 8 is not your home FI/EF school by address, you will likely have to continue at the FI/EF secondary school for your home address. If the school you are attending in Grade 8 is not your home FI/EF school by address and you wish to attend the pathway school for that school you will have to apply via the Out-of-Area Admissions procedure.

How do I know if I am an out-of-area (formerly optional attendance) student? If you have changed home address since your initial placement in FI/EF you would have been allowed to complete the grade range of your FI/EF school but would be considered “Out-of-Area” to that pathway. If you applied to your FI/EF school via the Out-of-Area (formerly Optional Attendance) process in the first place, you are attending your school as an Out-of-Area student.

What are my options for studying French at secondary school if I am not in FI or EF? All students must complete 1 FSL credit at the secondary level to complete the requirements of the OSSD. Usually this credit is taken in Grade 9. There is a beginner French credit for any student who does not have the 600 hours of instruction in French at the elementary level. Many schools offer Core French through Grade 12. Students who complete all 4 FSF (Core French) credits receive the certificate of achievement in Core French with their OSSD. Students may opt to take Ojibwe instead of French to meet this graduation requirement. 

What does French Immersion/Extended French look like in Secondary school?(Certificates) A student who completes 10 credits in French, 4 FIF credits (French Language) and 6 credits in subjects taught in French, will qualify for the Certificate of Bilingual Studies (French Immersion). A student who completes 7 credits in French, 4 FEF credits (French Language) and 3 credits in subjects taught in French, will qualify for the Certificate of Bilingual Studies (Extended French).

 

CSIP and French Programs Qs & As

Why are French Immersion or Extended French not listed as a Central Student Interest Program? Entry to French Immersion/Extended French is in the elementary grades (Junior Kindergarten or Grade 4). Students continue through a pathway of French Immersion schools (elementary, intermediate and secondary) set out for their address from the outset of the program. Students cannot begin these programs in secondary school. There is no need for a student in Grade 8 to “apply” to French Immersion at secondary except in the case where they wish to attend a school not associated with their home address and for that they would follow the Out-of-Area Admissions procedure.

My child is currently in French Immersion/Extended French. If they are accepted to a Central Student Interest Program do they need to leave the French program? Is it still possible to receive the bilingual certificate? The Certificate of Bilingual Studies for Extended French/French Immersion is granted on the basis of the completion of a set number of credits both in French Language and in subject courses where the language of instruction is French. To be able to complete these credit requirements, a student must be in attendance at a secondary school that offers these courses and must have time in their schedule to accommodate them. For those reasons, students will choose between a Student Interest Program or an Extended French/French Immersion program.

If I accept the placement in a Central Student Interest program and leave the FI or EF program, can I come back to FI or EF? There may be some time after the initial acceptance of placement to change your mind. However, once a student has been “made active” at their new secondary school, the return to a French Immersion/Extended French school cannot be guaranteed. Once a student leaves the French Immersion program, consideration for readmission is subject to the following parameters: available space and equivalent academic background in French. Equivalency is only a factor if space is determined at the local home school by address. Should space not be available, then admission is not possible. Space is determined by the local school Principal. 

Is French Immersion or Extended French a Student Special Interest Program? No. French Immersion/Extended French are optional programs that begin in elementary school.

To help you make an informed decision when choosing a school, TDSB schools will host in-person open houses and information sessions for parents/guardians and students between November and January. Learn everything you need to know about our incredible variety of schools, programs and courses. If you have questions about a specific school or open house, please contact the school directly for more information.

Note: Please check this page regularly, as secondary schools will continue to post information about open house dates/times.

To locate your designated elementary home school by address, please Find Your School - By Address. Schools that offer Central Student Interest Programs and local programs will host open houses and information sessions for parents/guardians and students between November and February. Learn everything you need to know about our incredible variety of schools and programs. If you have questions about a specific school, please visit the school’s website or contact the school directly for more information.

Note: Please check this page regularly, as elementary schools will continue to post information about open house dates/times.

From Toronto Public Health - The updated fall/winter 2024-2025 COVID-19 KP.2 vaccine is available now for eligible individuals who live in Ontario and are six months of age and older and at high risk from COVID-19 or a priority population. Vaccine will be available to anyone 6 months of age and older beginning October 28, 2024.

Vaccines are available at select pharmacies and primary care providers. Find a pharmacy here . COVID-19 vaccines are available by appointment at Toronto Public Health clinics for children 6 months to 4 years of age.

Staying up-to-date with COVID-19 vaccines is important to protect ourselves and the most vulnerable people in our community from serious illness, including hospitalization and death.

Flu vaccination is recommended for everyone aged six months and older. How much protection the vaccine gives depends on a person’s immune system and the match with the virus strains spreading that year.

Children six months of age and older and adults can get the flu vaccine at the same time, before or after a COVID-19 vaccine.

The vaccine provides some protection even when the match is not exact. Flu vaccines are about 50% effective in preventing the flu in healthy adults. The vaccine also reduces the risk of serious flu complications by 50 per cent.  The flu vaccine cannot make you sick from influenza because it does not contain any live virus. It takes two weeks for your body to develop an immune response from the vaccine.

The Toronto District School Board (TDSB) is committed to open and inclusive policy decision-making and values community input and participation through consultation. Consultation is a two-way communication process between the Board and external participants, including students and their parents/guardians, school councils, advisory committees, community members, different levels of government, service agencies, professional organizations and union partners. The objective of consultation is to gather public input regarding options, alternative courses of action, as well as to identify unintended effects for various participants and to find solutions. 

Personal Mobile Device Use in Schools Policy - NEW

Objective - To outline requirements for the appropriate use of Personal Mobile Devices by students, staff and other members of the TDSB School Community at schools; to advance a conducive learning environment and promote responsible Digital Citizenship; and to reduce negative impacts of excessive screen time and social media use on students’ achievement, well-being, and mental health.  

Draft New Policy [docx] Draft New Policy [pdf]

Please provide your questions, comments and suggestions related to the draft Policy to: mobiledevicepolicy@tdsb.on.ca by December 10, 2024.

 

Student Leadership Policy (P070)

Objective: To further the Board's commitment of expanding platforms for student voice and establishing a governance framework for equitable, effective and efficient student representation and leadership across the system. To affirm the leadership roles of Student Council, Student Presidents’ Council, Student Senate and Student Trustees in advancing interests and aspirations of TDSB students and the promotion of effective communication. To provide resources and opportunities in order to build and foster a diverse group of student leaders.

P070 -Draft for Consultation

Please provide your questions, comments and suggestions related to the draft Policy tol: tdsbpolicyconsultation@tdsb.on.ca by December 13, 2024.

The Toronto District School Board (TDSB) has developed the Literacy Strategy (2024-2028), which acknowledges every student’s right to literacy proficiency and commits to realizing its Vision of the literate learner. Through this Literacy Strategy, the TDSB aims to cultivate and inspire curious and innovative learners and citizens who use their critical thinking skills as readers, writers and communicators. This allows learners to engage critically in the world around them and thrive in this evolving, diverse and complex global context. 

This Literacy Strategy is designed to support all students, regardless of their identity, in creating, communicating, reading, writing and thinking critically with confidence, fluency, and enjoyment, regardless of the language of instruction. These literacy skills allow learners to contribute to positive social change, social justice, technological and economic growth. Literate learners will develop the skills to engage in learning that is transferable across various disciplines from the early years to secondary school and beyond. These literacy skills will allow students to pursue educational and vocational opportunities that are meaningful to them. Multiliterate learners will be able to actively participate as responsible citizens who uphold human rights and who can explore and engage with the world around them. View the full Literacy Strategy – PDF

The TDSB is committed to providing exceptional, inclusive, empowering and culturally responsive mathematics education. Every classroom should be where students from diverse backgrounds and abilities can excel, fostering a deep appreciation for mathematics and promoting collaborative problem-solving while maintaining high expectations for student achievement. The 2023-24 school year marked the introduction of the TDSB Math Achievement Action Plan — a comprehensive mathematics strategy — with targeted support for Math Learning Partner schools. Some highlights from the first year of implementation include:

For more information on Mathematics, click TDSB Mathematics for Parents and Caregivers.

Anti-Hate and Anti-Racism Strategy - Two-Year Working Plan Updates

The first phase of working groups began in the 2023/24 school year and concentrated on addressing Antisemitism and Islamophobia. These will be presented at a Special PPC on December 4, 2024.

In the second phase, scheduled for the 2024/25 school year, the focus will shift to anti-Asian Racism, as well as Homophobia and Transphobia. The working group addressing anti-Indigenous racism is also part of the second phase. It is being led and coordinated by the Urban Indigenous Education Centre (UIEC) and its elders council, following the UIEC’s established process. Similarly, the working group addressing anti-Black racism will be led and coordinated by the Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement in collaboration with its elders council and community process.

As I repeat in every update, the TDSB collects data through the Bias and Hate (RBH) Portal, and the increase in antisemitic incidents is also being experienced in our schools - on my website I have excerpted from all our public reports on the data - TDSB Public Reports with RBH Portal Data 2018-2023. Principals and Superintendents are being reminded of their responsibilities in documenting incidents and educating against them. All students and staff - all students and staff - must be safe in our schools and free from discrimination, harassment and hate. 

You can read more on TDSB's Combating Hate and Racism Strategy on our website. It is important that there is accurate information about Board updates and decisions as they relate to combating hate and racism. Questions and Answers have been prepared to provide additional information - should you have any additional questions, please email me. 

If you are a staff or a student or a parent/caregiver, and you are a victim of/or witnessing an incident of racism, bias, or hate in our schools, please report it to the school's principal, who has a duty to investigate all incidents. Each time an incident takes place in a school, it is to be recorded in the portal I previously referenced which then begins a system response. We have a responsibility to educate against hate. For more information, please visit the webpage for Reporting an Incident of Hate or Discrimination Involving or Impacting Students. If you experience it, or witness it, report it. Please. If you are concerned your complaint is not being taken seriously after you follow the Parent Concern Protocol, please let me know.

For incidents involving and impacting students, the following procedures can apply: Reporting and Responding to Racism and Hate Incidents Involving or Impacting Students in Schools, PR728 Parent Concern Protocol, PR505 Caring and Safe Schools related procedures

For employee complaints, the following procedures can apply: Workplace Harassment Prevention and Human Rights, PR515 (for employee conduct alleged to be a human rights violation or Code-based workplace harassment) Non-Code Based Workplace Harassment, PR740

In some circumstances an incident entered into the RBH portal may be a breach of the Criminal Code through the incitement of hate; in which case, the incident must also be reported to the police in accordance with PR728.

Complaints regarding social media postings should be sent directly to the TDSB's Human Rights Office at humanrightsoffice@tdsb.on.ca. The intake process is being centralized in the Human Rights Office to ensure for consistency of process.

If you witness something inside the community, report any allegations of hate-motivated crimes to police for investigation at 416-808-2222 or 9-1-1 in an emergency. The Police state they will not tolerate any intimidation, harassment, or hate-motivated behaviour aimed at specific communities. You can also call 1-800-222-TIPS to Crime Stoppers anonymously.

Please remember TDSB's Mental Health and Well Being Professional Support Staff (PSS) are here to support your mental health and well-being and to help you navigate the tools and resources you may need. Please see resources on their website.

As you may be aware, during the school year, school staff participate in a number of Professional Activity (PA) Days. On these dates, students remain at home and schools are open for staff to engage in professional learning. As per Ministry requirements, detailed information about planned activities will be posted to the TDSB public website at least 14 days in advance of each scheduled PA Day during the 2024-25 school year. I encourage you to visit the PA Day web page to learn more and check back throughout the school year. 

Note: the next PA Day for the 2024-25 school year is November 15, 2024 for both elementary and secondary students.

Target Audience: All Staff – Elementary Topic: PA Day- Parent-Teacher Conferences Length: Full Day (In Person) Description: Parent-teacher conferences are held to facilitate communication and collaboration between parents or guardians and teachers. The primary purpose of these conferences is to discuss a student’s academic progress, social development, and overall well-being. They provide an opportunity for parents and teachers to exchange information, celebrate successes, share concerns, and work together in the best interests of the student.

Target Audience: All Staff – Secondary Topic: PA Day- Professional Learning Foci Length:Full Day (In-Person) Facilitator(s):School-Based Staff Description: Educators will engage in a variety of professional learning sessions focused on effective strategies to support student learning. The sessions are centred on the following: Literacy and Mathematics: Destreamed Grade 9 English curriculum; Destreamed Grade 9 Math curriculum; High-impact Instructional Practices in Mathematics; Universal Design for Learning; Differentiated Instruction and Assessment Curriculum implementation New Destreamed Grade 9 Geography; New Grades 9-10 Business Studies curriculum; New Grades 9-10 Technological Education curriculum; Updated Grade 10 Career Studies curriculum; Making connections to skilled trades, transferable skills and apprenticeship & STEM

Please ensure you check for Days of Significance before scheduling student and community events - as the TDSB is currently reviewing ours - for 2024-25, the TDSB will only publish a Faith/Creed-Based Holy Days Calendar and an Indigenous Days of Significance Calendar. For now, please check the Multi-Faith calendar available online https://multifaithcalendar.org/cal/index.php.

I have been communicating issues we have been having with dogs on school property with every update. Now, as part of our ongoing efforts to maintain a safe and welcoming environment on TDSB properties, we would like to update you on the policies and new reporting procedures related to dogs on school grounds.

The TDSB enforces a strict policy regarding dogs on its properties. Dogs are generally not permitted on TDSB grounds, with the exception of service animals as defined by the Student Use of Service Animals in Schools Policy (P096) and the Use of Service Animals by the General Public Procedure (PR604). These guidelines are in place to ensure proper management and support for service animals within our schools.

New Reporting Process for Dogs Off-Leash

To effectively address incidents of dogs being off-leash on school properties, a new reporting process has been established through the City of Toronto’s 311 service. Community members can report such incidents either by phone or online:

Phone Reporting: Call 311 to report dogs off-leash on school property

Online Reporting: Visit the City of Toronto Service Request or Feedback webpage.

November is Hindu Heritage Month

November is an opportunity to celebrate the Hindu way of life, examine its impact and contributions to the world culture, and recognize values which promote compassion, peace, and inclusion.  

This year’s theme is Antah Shanti for Vishwa Shanti. This Sanskrit phrase conveys that to foster World (Vishwa) Peace (Shanti) we need to have Inner (Antah) Peace (Shanti). 

As part of the celebrations to mark Hindu Heritage Month during the month of November, all TDSB students were invited to be creative and submit an image to the Hindu Heritage Month Poster Design Challenge. Congratulations to Forest Hill Jr/Sr student Laksh, grade 4 who won the Hindu Heritage Month Poster Challenge! 

Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) Meeting
Learning Innovation and Equitable Outcomes - Special Town Hall

Date: November 4, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Location: Virtual or In-person (TDSB Board Office, 5050 Yonge St.)

Join Zoom Meeting https://tdsb-ca.zoom.us/j/91679859602?pwd=I4maH2mOXaTixcgz7fbd4FpoPIqUdO.1 

Meeting ID: 916 7985 9602 Passcode: 242870 

Neuberger Holocaust Education Week 2024

From November 4-10, join the THM to learn, remember, and reflect on the history of the Holocaust together, and to commemorate the anniversary of Kristallnacht.

 

Programs include:

Opening Night: Final Verdict – November 4 at 7:30 PM
The Humanity of Grief – November 5 at 10 AM
The Spoils – November 6 at 7 PM
Kristallnacht Commemoration: Hasidism and Anti-Jewish Violence in Poland – November 10 at 7 PM

Neuberger Holocaust Education Week (HEW) is one of the THM’s most well-known annual signature public events. Internationally recognized as a best practice in the field, HEW occurs in November to coincide with the commemoration of Kristallnacht (the Night of Broken Glass).

For more than 40 years, HEW has provided high impact programming across the GTA to students, intercultural groups, and the general public. Stay tuned throughout the week to see what’s in store this year.

Take Our Kids to Work Day (TOKTWD)

Take Our Kids to Work Day (TOKTWD) is taking place on Wednesday, November 6, 2024. TOKTWD is an experiential learning opportunity for Grade 9 students across Canada offering them the chance to see the world of work firsthand, explore a variety of careers and sectors, and look at what skills are important to thrive in the world of work.

The 2024-2025 School Council Innovation Grant (SCIG) is now open for applications, with a deadline of December 1, 2024.

Information sessions will be held on the following dates:

Wednesday, October 30, 2024 Wednesday, November 13, 2024

For more information, click here. 

To assist you in preparing your grant application, please visit this link.

School Council Professional Learning 

Each year the Parent/Caregiver and Community Engagement Office (PCCEO) provides training opportunities for School Councils across the system to support the important work of School Councils. This year's sessions are: School Council 101, School Improvement Plan & School Statement of Needs and Leading Effective Engagement.

Go to the TDSB School Council Workshops page for session details and to register or please refer to the charts below for all upcoming events and log in details. We hope you take advantage of these opportunities.

Upcoming Parent / Caregiver / Guardian Sessions:

Supporting Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

The following are the dates for the upcoming parent/caregiver/guardian session offered by the Special Education and Inclusion Department:

Imagine a Canada

The Imagine a Canada 2024-2025 program invites Canadian youth from K-G12 and CÉGEP to envision a Canada reconciled. 

The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) is inviting youth across the nation to Imagine a Canada through the lens of Reconciliation!

Youth who participate in the art and essay stream can submit an art piece, essay, or other representation to express their vision of a reconciled Canada and what they hope others will learn from their submission. Up to twelve projects will be selected from the art and essay stream to be included in an art booklet showcasing their work and message. 

Youth who participate in the project stream are asked to go one step further and submit a plan on how their project will address Reconciliation in their community or school. Projects for consideration include: inviting Survivors, Elders, or Knowledge Keepers to speak at a series of learning events; building a permanent art installation representing Reconciliation at the school; or supporting volunteer work in communities related to Reconciliation.

Six projects from the project stream will receive $750, six will receive $1000, and three will receive $1500. Additionally, these projects will also be recognized in an art booklet.
Youth from select projects in both streams will be invited to participate in virtual leadership training exercises. You can find more information about the Imagine a Canada program on our website: buff.ly/3n5KaWx.

Youth Climate Action Grants

Funding applications are now open. The application takes 15 minutes to complete and will close November 12, 2024.

The Youth Climate Action Grants provides funding to TDSB and TCDSB student-led projects, activities and events that: educate and engage students, families and/or community members on climate actions; help Toronto achieve its GHG emissions reduction goals by 2030; align with the TransformTO Net Zero Strategy for net-zero emissions by 2040.

Grant funding up to $1,000 is available. This funding program is a partnership between the City and the Toronto District School Board and Toronto Catholic District School Board.

TDSB Special Education Department Family Sessions
Drop-In Q & A with Occupational Therapy/Physiotherapy Staff

Parent/Guardian/Caregiver Drop-Ins and Q & A with Occupational Therapy/Physiotherapy Staff - Receive general OT/PT strategies for your child(ren)
Chat with other parents/caregivers; Ask questions.

If you require translation services or have any questions or concerns, please email:
Learning Centre 1 - Rhanda Craig: rhanda.craig@tdsb.on.ca and Leslie Hopkins: leslie.hopkins@tdsb.on.ca Learning Centre 2 - Anna Lin: anna.lin@tdsb.on.ca and Andrea Wiltsie: andrea.wiltsie@tdsb.on.ca
November 19, 2024
December 17, 2024
January 21, 2025
February 18, 2025
March 18, 2025
April 15, 2025
May 20, 2025
June 2025

Get the link here Sensory and Motor team parent/guardian/caregiver VOH flyer

 

TDSB Speech and Language Pathologists in collaboration with Donna Cardoza invite you to Let's Talk, Read, and Write 
Parents/Caregivers of Grade 1 students, Ontario has a new Language Curriculum.  Come and learn how you can help your child develop early reading, writing and talking skills.  Register for ALL 5 Sessions on Tuesdays from 6:30pm-7:30pm - Register here.

Nov 12 - Let's Keep Learning

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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