Health & Safety Measures - Updated Webpage
Health and safety are a priority in our schools and the TDSB is taking action to slow the spread of COVID-19 and keep schools as safe as we can for staff and students. The content on the Health and Safety Measures webpage has recently been updated to ensure our actions are clear and that key information, including links to other webpages, is featured. The revised, streamlined webpage also features a new visual that outlines various health and safety measures that are taking place in our schools, such as screening, ventilation and PPE. Please see below.
Please let's remember to continue to do everything we can to prevent the spread. Stay home as much as possible. Wear a mask indoors and outdoors when you are unable to physically distance. Wash your hands frequently. Stay home if you are ill, even if symptoms are minor. Go for a walk alone or with members of your household to get fresh air and exercise. Check on vulnerable family, friends and neighbours. Stay connected and as much as possible, take care of your mental and physical health. For supports and resources for Mental Health and Well-Being, please click https://www.tdsb.on.ca/In-Person-Learning/Resources-During-Covid-19.
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Asymptomatic Testing UpdateAsymptomatic testing is important - "The latest research shows “silent spreaders” are more common than we first thought. More comprehensive COVID-19 testing for people without obvious symptoms is key to identifying who is positive so they can take proper precautions."
The TDSB continues to work with the Local Health Integration Networks (LHINs) and testing partners to offer asymptomatic testing to our school communities. Testing options include take-home tests, mobile testing sites and on-site testing in schools. For the on-site testing in schools, there are two models:
- a hub model where one school hosts schools within the same neighbourhood
- an individual school testing model
If testing is happening in or for your school, your school principal will communicate this information to you.
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2021 International Women’s Day Theme: #FeministRecovery
March 8 is International Women’s Day, a time to celebrate the contributions of women and girls everywhere; to recognize women who inspire us all; and to renew discussion about the importance of gender equality in Canada and around the world.
This International Women’s Day, we invite you to take a pledge to advance gender equality and support an inclusive recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic by using #FeministRecovery on your social media accounts. An inclusive recovery offers the opportunity to advance gender equality and provide economic and social stability for all Canadians. Please see more information here https://cfc-swc.gc.ca/commemoration/iwd-jif/theme-en.html.
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Hold the Dates - Ward 8 Community Meetings
- the grade change study to expand Armour Heights PS from JK-6 to JK-8 - community meeting on Thursday, March 18, 2021 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Please see the Community Invitation Letter. For more information about this review and to register for the meeting, please visit http://www.tdsb.on.ca/AccommodationReviews: Click on "Armour Heights PS, St Andrew's MS, and Ledbury Park EMS" under "Program Area Review" or click here for the direct link.
- the boundary change study to ensure the cohort attending John Ross Robertson PS (Otter Creek area) - Community Meeting scheduled for the end of April; and
- a new program study "Phase 2 of the Yonge-Eglinton review" will begin with a staff study and will focus on options to balance enrolment within local elementary schools in Wards 8 and 11, and will include consideration of the Bannockburn building to resolve ongoing accommodation pressures - PART to begin in April 2021 with public meeting(s) in May.
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2021/2022 School Year
As I noted in last week's update, the Ministry of Education has asked school boards to plan for no COVID related funding at this time, meaning that the report coming to board for school-based staff is for in-person learning. That being said, it is recognized that this will depend on the status of the pandemic and the advice of public health officials and the needs of our students and community. As a result, the TDSB is making contingency plans for the need for remote, virtual learning in addition to in-person learning should this be necessary. If this is necessary, it must be recognized that the government must fully fund the additional resources required for virtual learning to support student learning, well-being and mental health.
With regard to the school year calendar, for the next school year, 2021-22, school boards are being given flexibility for submitting their calendar to the Ministry of Education for approval. The revised submission deadlines for modified calendars is on or before May 7, 2021, and for regular calendars, on or before May 28, 2021. The TDSB Calendar Committee is meeting to discuss next year's calendar, fully cognizant of the Days of Significance at the beginning of September.
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The New Davisville/Spectrum UpdateThe construction project for the new school remains on schedule for substantial completion in July 2021. Kids will be back on-site for September 2021! The overall building envelope is now complete. Over the next few weeks, work will focus on the completion of interior finishes, start-up of building systems and work on exterior features, landscape & grounds. Please note monthly construction updates are posted here -
https://schoolweb.tdsb.on.ca/davisville/Davisville-The-New-Build/Construction-Updates
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Baycrest PS - Sir Sandford Fleming Retrofit
I am really happy to share that after many months delay in getting 'Approval to Proceed' from the Ministry of Education, the new Baycrest School project was tendered and the General Contract for the construction of the capital projects component of the improvements necessary to the former Sir Sandford Fleming facility to accommodate the relocation of Baycrest PS was approved by the Finance, Budget and Enrolment Committee (FBEC) on February 24. The Report is publicly posted here. The recommendations come to the Board Meeting Wednesday. The goal of the project is to renovate portions of the former Sir Sandford Fleming secondary school building and site to facilitate the transfer of the current Baycrest PS school program, along with Baycrest Childcare. The site improvements including the development of necessary playground/school ground areas for both the school and Childcare programs will be done in-house.
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New Outdoor Learning Portal Launched We are excited to launch a new online, outdoor learning portal for staff and families in the TDSB. This portal, driven by a motion at the Program and School Services Committee, brings together information, ideas and resources to help support and encourage learning in the outdoors.
While many educators regularly integrated the outdoors into their daily learning, the pandemic has encouraged all staff to look beyond the walls of their classroom and find innovative and creative ways to learn outside. The TDSB has a long history of supporting outdoor learning, both through its EcoSchools program and Toronto Outdoor Education Schools (TOES). Learn more about how you can promote outdoor learning as an educator, caregiver or member of the school community. The Family Resources area of the site provides tips for preparing for the weather, resources for why and how to get started as well as a comprehensive list of activities for families to enjoy together in the city.
The website will continue to be updated with new information and resources and will continue to serve as a hub of ideas and innovation that educators use not only in the coming months, but for years ahead. Click here https://www.tdsb.on.ca/learningoutdoors
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Board Meeting This Week
Board Meeting, Wednesday, March 10, 2021 4:30 p.m. Electronic Meeting
- 15.1 Appointment of External Member to the Audit Committee
- 16.1 Audit Committee, Report No. 02, February 22, 2021
- 16.1 (1) Internal Audit Department Status and Engagement Update, February 2021
- 16.1 (2) Regional Internal Audit Team Engagement and Status Update
- 16.1 (3) Audit Committee O. Reg. 361/10 Requirements: Work Tracker
- 16.2 Governance and Policy Committee, Report No. 02, February 10, 2021
- 16.2 (1) P006, Advertising Policy and P041, Distribution and Display of Materials for Students and Parents From External Groups Policy: Review, Phase 5
- 16.2 (2) P073, Respectful Learning and Working Environment Policy
- 16.2 (3) PR677, Records and Information Management: Revised Operational Procedure
- 16.2 (4) PR597, French Immersion/Extended French: Revised Procedure
- 16.2 (5) PR523, Access to School Premises: Revised Procedure
- 16.2 (6) PR731, Virtual Consultations Procedure: New Procedure
- 16.2 (7) Bylaws Review Ad Hoc Committee: Mandate
- 16.3 Program and School Services Committee, Report No. 02, February 17, 2021
- 16.3 (1) Community Use of Schools Community Advisory Committee: Focus on Youth Advocacy
- 16.3 (2) Inner City Community Advisory Committee: Early Years Support in Model Schools
- 16.3 (3) LGBTQ2S Community Advisory Committee: Terms of Reference
- 16.3 (4) Parent Involvement Advisory Committee: Access and Visibility of PIAC Representatives on the TDSB Website
- 16.3 (5) Special Education Advisory Committee: New Association Membership
- 16.3 (6) Special Education Advisory Committee: Appointment of Alternate Community Member Representatives on SEAC
- 16.3 (7) Human Rights Annual Report, 2018-2020
- 16.4 Finance, Budget and Enrolment Committee, Report No. 04, February 24, 2021
- 16.4 (1) Contract Awards, Facilities
- 16.4 (2) Contract Awards, Operations
- 16.4 (3) Construction Contract Award for Sir Sandford Fleming Retrofit: Interior Improvements to Facilitate Relocation of Baycrest Public School
- 16.4 (4) Receipt of Section 37 Funds for Site Improvements at Bruce Public School
- 16.4 (5) Jones Avenue Learning Centre Emergency Reconstruction: Update
- 16.4 (6) First Quarter Interim Financial Report, 2020-21
- 16.4 (7) Proposed Strategic Drivers for 2021-22 Budget
- 16.4 (8) Three-Year Enrolment Projections, 2021-22 to 2023-24
- 16.4 (9) 2021-22 Financial Forecast
- 16.4 (10) 2020-21 Pandemic Funding: Update
- 16.4 (11) Financial Facts: Revenue and Expenditure Trends, February 2021
- 16.4 (12) 2021-22 Education Funding Guide: Final Response
- 16.5 Finance, Budget and Enrolment Committee (Special Meeting), Report No. 05, March 2, 2021
- 16.5 (1) School-Based Staff Allocation 2021-2022: Teachers and Support Staff
- 16.6 Planning and Priorities Committee (Special Meeting), Report No. 06, February 9, 2021
- 16.6 (1) Access to Paid Sick Days to Stop the Spread of COVID-19
- 16.7 Planning and Priorities Committee (Special Meeting), Report No. 07, February 23, 2021 (For receipt)
- 16.8 Planning and Priorities Committee, Report No. 08, March 3, 2021
- 16.8 (1) George Harvey Collegiate Institute and York Memorial Collegiate Institute Pupil
- 17.1 Written Notice of Motion for Consideration (Trustees Brown and Mammoliti) Reconsideration of Previous Board Decision Schedule of Meetings for Regular Board and Standing Committee Meetings, 2021: Date Change re Planning and Priorities Committee Meeting and Time Change re Governance and Policy Committee Meeting, September 8, 2021
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Ward 8 Virtual Forum this Thursday, March 11 - 'Mental Health'The next Ward Forum on March 11 - 'Student Mental Health & Well-Being During COVID' - will feature a presentation by Shameen Sandhu, System Leader of Mental Health and Professional Support Services.
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TDSB Earth Hour 2021
Earth Hour is a world-wide celebration where millions of people around the world turn off their lights for one hour to tackle the dual challenges facing the planet – climate change and loss of nature.
During Earth Hour, TDSB schools and offices are asked to go as electricity-free as possible for ONE HOUR. Wherever possible, our schools and offices will turn off all interior lighting except necessary emergency lights, and minimize fan use. In 2011, we saw our highest reduction in energy usage (29.9%.) at schools and offices. In 2017, we came close to our best ever reduction in energy use at 28%. Can we improve upon that reduction this year?
Join TDSB schools and offices on March 26, from 2 – 3 p.m., as we celebrate Earth Hour by turning off unnecessary lights and unplugging electronic devices. Additionally, families and community members can participate on March 27, from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. For more information, please visit the TDSB webpage for Earth Hour 2021. Tweet this year’s #EarthHour actions using @EcoSchoolsTDSB.
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Prime Minister's Awards Deadline Extended
Canada’s educators are showing resilience and commitment to students in the face of COVID-19.
Do you know an exceptional teacher or early childhood educator? Consider nominating them for a 2021 Prime Minister's Award! This program honours innovative and outstanding elementary and secondary school teachers and early childhood educators who are helping prepare Canadian youth for the challenges of tomorrow. The nomination deadline has been extended for the 2021 competition until April 27, 2021.
Looking for inspiration? Check out previous teaching and early childhood education award recipients. 2021 nomination packages are available at www.pma.gc.ca. The nomination deadline is April 27, 2021 at 11:59 a.m. (Pacific Time).
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Making Good Trouble*
March 21 is International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. In celebration of the International Day for the Elimination of Racism and Discrimination, the Urban Alliance On Race Relations, Labour Community Services and the Toronto and York Region Labour Council will be hosting a discussion on how we can dismantle racism in our society.
* Slogan of John Lewis, legendary Civil Rights Leader
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Connect with Professional Support Staff
Every Tuesday morning from 10-11am and Thursday evening from 7-8pm you are invited to join our virtual office hours to connect with staff from the TDSB Professional Support Services. PSS colleagues are here to support our Caregiver community on the topic of mental health and wellbeing.
Click the link and click on either Tuesday or Thursday to connect. Mental Health matters.
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Connect with a Child and Youth Counsellor
Every Friday from 12-1pm, students to connect virtually with a Child and Youth Counsellor and have an opportunity to talk about their mental health, relationships etc
- Sign in with your TDSB email on Friday’s from 12pm - 1pm
- No registration required Meeting ID: 925 8258 8047
- Password: ICYC
Mental health matters.
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Bill 5 Legal Challenge and EDC Hearing
On March 16, 2021 the Supreme Court of Canada will hear the appeal of the Bill 5 (Better Local Government Act) provincial legislation which altered the City of Toronto wards from 47 to 25 in the middle of the 2018 municipal election and similarly impacted the TDSB trustee wards. The appeal to the Supreme Court of Canada was brought by the City of Toronto with the support of TDSB. TDSB Legal Services will be making submissions on behalf of TDSB at the hearing, which is expected to be conducted virtually, and TDSB will be one of seventeen parties making submissions before the Supreme Court of Canada in what is shaping up to be one of the largest hearings in recent history. The hearing will be livestreamed on the Supreme Court of Canada website commencing at either 9:00 am or 9:30 am (to be determined), and can be accessed on March 16, 2021.
The EDC (Educational Development Charges) hearing is also now set to take place on March 25, 2021 at the Ontario Superior Court of Justice (Divisional Court), commencing at 10:00 am. In the hearing, TDSB seeks to have the court declare certain provisions of the Education Act regulations invalid and permit TDSB to charge Educational Development Charges. More information about the EDC case can be found on the TDSB website. The Court hearing will be conducted via Zoom and a link will be provided by the court shortly prior to the hearing date for anyone who wishes to observe the hearing.
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TDSB Summer School Registration 2021
The focus of the 2021 Elementary Literacy and Numeracy Summer School Program is to address student learning gaps and to continue student engagement through the month of July. Programs, embedded in Literacy and Numeracy, are developed by the local summer school principal to reflect the local school focus. Programs are offered to students in K to Grade 8, from July 5 – 30, 2021. Registration is online. A list of schools and registration information will be added in the coming weeks here https://www.tdsb.on.ca/About-Us/Innovation/Elementary-Summer-School.
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Virtual Consultations Procedure (PR731)
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Policy Consultations
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. Please see revised the Policy Review Schedule.
New Consultations
Human Rights Policy (P031) - Deadline: April 5, 2021 - Draft Revised Policy - Email: Anu.Sharma2@tdsb.on.ca Objective: To protect, promote and advance the human rights of all TDSB members to learn, function and work in an equitable, accessible, respectful and inclusive environment free of discrimination and harassment on the basis of the prohibited grounds of discrimination specified in this Policy and protected under the Ontario Human Rights Code. To enhance the capacity of the TDSB to meet its positive human rights obligations, including to proactively identify, address, and prevent all forms of discrimination, including individual and systemic discrimination.
Workplace Harassment Prevention for Non-Human-Rights-Code Harassment (P034) - Deadline: April 5, 2021 Draft Revised Policy - Email: Ros.Salvador@tdsb.on.ca Objective: This Policy is designed to promote a healthy, respectful and supportive work environment. It highlights conduct that may amount to non-Code workplace harassment (i.e., harassment that is not covered by the Board’s Human Rights Policy or the Human Rights Code) and outlines the system’s shared responsibility for fostering a harassment-free workplace. The goal is to prevent non-Code workplace harassment from taking place and, where necessary, to investigate and respond to instances, potential instances, and complaints of such behaviour in a fair, timely and effective manner.
On-going Consultations
Parent and Community Involvement Policy - Objective: To establish a framework for building and supporting parent and community involvement in the Toronto District School Board. We are currently reviewing P023 – Parent and Community Involvement Policy and are inviting feedback from our community as we develop the first draft of the policy. Learn more, and share your voice, at www.tdsbengage.ca
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Download the COVID ALERT APPTogether, let's limit the spread of COVID-19. COVID Alert is an additional tool to protect yourself and your loved ones. COVID Alert helps us break the cycle of infection. The app can let other app users know of possible exposures before any symptoms appear. That way, we can take care of ourselves and protect our communities. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19/covid-alert.html. Please note, unfortunately, the app is only available on certain phones/operating systems.
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School Year Calendar 2020-2021The official school year calendar for the Toronto District School Board runs from September 1 to June 30, inclusive and has now been approved by the Ministry.
The last day of class for elementary students is June 29
Secondary Quadmester Calendar
- Quad 3: Feb 8 - April 22
- Quad 4: April 23 - June 28
Note: Passover 2021 will begin in the evening of Saturday, March 27 and ends in the evening of Sunday, April 4. Ramadan 2021 will begin in the evening of Monday, April 12 and ends in the evening of Wednesday, May 12.
PA Days & Holidays Remaining
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April (formerly March) Break
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