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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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"The Only Constant in Life Is Change." - HeraclitusWelcome back from March Break... Stay safe and stay kind.
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In this Issue:
- Supporting the Ukrainian Community
- Ministry Direction on COVID-19
- Virtual Learning 2022-23 Deadline March 21st
- Virtual Ward Forum Notes now Posted
- Secondary Credit Programs Summer School July 2022
- Elementary Summer School
- Meetings This Week
- Summer Employment Opportunities
- TDSB System Calendar
- Key Dates - School Year Calendar 2022-23
- New Invitations - World Down Syndrome Day; Earth Hour; Virtual St. Paul's Summit - March 27 - 3pm
- Worth Repeating - Elections 2022 - Are You on the Voters Lists?; Backpack and School Supplies Drive; Respect the Rules - No Dogs Allowed on School Grounds
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Supporting the Ukrainian Community
Our thoughts continue to be with the people of Ukraine and the Ukrainian community here in Toronto. Read the Director's full statement and read tips that may be helpful for parents/caregivers whose children are experiencing difficulties.
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Ministry Direction on COVID-19
After our Special Board Meeting of March 10, we asked Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health for more time to implement these changes - "To remove such measures like masking, distancing, cohorting and daily screening protections at the same time would go against our multiple layer approach to protecting our school communities from the spread of COVID-19," we advocated.
Unfortunately, the phased approach was not supported by the province and Toronto Public Health confirmed "all policies related to mask mandates in schools are within the provincial government's purview. Further, with the most recent update to the Reopening Ontario Act, local medical officers of health are precluded from issuing Letters of Instruction to implement local measures, including the requirement that masks be worn in schools or other locations."
And yet on March 17, the COVID-19 Science Table released their updated projections. They confirm masks are still an effective public health measure to reduce COVID-19 transmission. They go on to say public health measures, including increased ventilation and filtration, physical distancing and wearing a well-fitted, high-quality mask can help reduce SARS- CoV-2 transmission in places where people gather indoors. Recent studies from the United States analysed the impact of mask-wearing on SARS-CoV-2 community transmission: mandatory masking reduced the incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection consistently. Masking protects both the person who wears the mask and others. Most importantly they said "community benefits from masking are most pronounced when adopted widely." Given these statements it is difficult to understand why we could not start back from March Break with masks still required in our schools. Although many have asked, what we can't do is implement when we have no ability to enforce - and the last thing we need to do is put principals, vice principals and staff in the middle of a mask war with adults and students who support the CMOH removal of mask protections.
What it Means for SchoolsHopefully you received and read the letter sent to all parents/caregivers on Friday, March 17. Here are highlights -
Masking and Staff PPE – “Masks are still key to reducing spread.” This continues to be true for schools where kids under 5 are not vaccinated and where rates are low even among under 12’s who can be vaccinated. They are strongly encouraged for students, staff and visitors in schools, school board offices and on student transportation. We will continue to provide medical grade masks for students and PPE for all staff. Wearing a mask doesn’t just protect you, it protects others. Please consider continuing to wear a well-fitted mask. Please respect everyone's choice.
Note, masks are still required in the following circumstances:
- For days 6-10 after a self-isolation period of five days after a COVD-19 diagnosis. Learn more.
- If you are identified as a close contact of someone with COVID-19. Learn more.
- In public spaces, including schools and childcares, for the first 14 days following travel outside of Canada. Learn more.
Staff confirm positive COVID-19 case notification letters to impacted classrooms will continue until the end of March and will be reassessed at that time… from my perspective this is important for families and needs to continue.
On-Site Screening Verification – Toronto Public Health has updated its screening for children/students/adults to align with the new direction from the Chief Medical Officer of Health with respect to isolation guidelines and masking requirements following a COVID-19 diagnosis or identification of being a close contact. Please do a daily self-assessment with this screening tool before coming to school and follow the isolation guidelines and other requirements, such as masking, as necessary.
Cohorting and Distancing – Cohorting and physical distancing is no longer required in schools. Toronto Transportation Group announced they will continue to keep assigned seats and cohorting (and although masks are not mandatory, similar to public health protocols for public transit, they do recommend students and drivers to continue to wear masks while on the school bus to help protect themselves and those around them).
Elementary students can play and learn together across cohorts, classes and grades, both indoors and outdoors and during lunch and recess. Shared spaces, such as libraries, technology labs, auditoriums and music rooms can be fully utilized without distancing. Programs across grades, such as reading buddies, can return. Schools can plan and host in-person events (e.g., proms, graduation ceremonies, and assemblies). Please check with your local school as these changes may be phased in with local conversations.
"We recognize that adapting to this new reality will take time and be mindful that not everyone will have the same level of comfort as measures are lifted. Families are encouraged to continue with the layers of protection that make them feel comfortable and our schools continue to be welcoming, respectful and inclusive spaces for all, regardless of personal decisions related to COVID-19 health measures."
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Please get VaccinatedVaccine 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.
If you have questions concerning vaccinating your child, please visit the Toronto Public Health website or call them at 416-338-7600.
Mental Health and Well-Being
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Virtual Learning 2022-23 Deadline March 21st
While we hope a larger number of students to attend In-Person next year, as per the provincial direction for boards to offer Virtual Learning, we recognize that there will be parents/caregivers and students who will choose this mode of learning to meet their needs
The Toronto District School Board is asking families interested in requesting Virtual Learning for the entire 2022-2023 school year to complete a Virtual Learning Registration Form. If your child will be attending school in-person next year, no action is required. The deadline is Monday, March 21 at 11:59 p.m. and there will be no opportunity to switch in either direction between In-Person and Virtual Learning once the Registration Form closes. This is a final decision for the entire 2022-23 school year.
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Virtual Ward Forum Notes now Posted
Hate and racism in any form has no place in schools and workplaces and we are committed to interrupting and confronting racism, discrimination and hate, in all of its forms when we see or hear it. Every day, there is an incredible amount of work happening in classrooms and schools that support this commitment.
Thank you to Roni Felsen (Superintendent of Education/SOE, Learning Network/LN 06) who moderated the session, to Andrew Howard, SOE/LN 05 who summed up and to the Panelists:
- Kasey Crump (Secondary Teacher, Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute)
- Andrea Gillard (Elementary Principal, Glen Park Public School)
- Denise Humphreys (Superintendent of Education, Learning Network 04)
- Salima Kassam (Centrally Assigned Principal - Equity, Anti-Racism and Anti-Oppression)
- Laura-Ashley Meghie-Rodriguez (Elementary Teacher, Humewood Community School)
Principal’s perspective: Give students the opportunity to talk and share their experience. Understanding the reasons behind student behaviour can help in the response. It should always be tackled with empathy and care.
Teachers’ perspective: Know your students. When you see something is off, it is time to act. Reaching out can lead to something as simple as somebody not sleeping well, or indeed something traumatic having happened.
Please read the complete notes posted on my website. And let's continue to educate against hate.
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Secondary Credit Programs Summer School July 2022
The Toronto District School Board offers summer school credit courses to all high school students and adults with current prerequisites. Students may take a new credit, or retake a course previously taken to upgrade a mark. Parents/Guardians and students must consult with their day school guidance counsellor regarding course selections and pre-requisite courses.
Registration opens April 19 at 9:00am. Continuing Education Secondary Credit Summer programs have mandatory attendance daily from 9:00 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Monday to Friday for the duration of the program you register for.
Please check the website for updated information.
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Elementary Summer School
The focus of the Elementary Summer School Program is to continue student learning and 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 in-person to students in K to Grade 8, from July 4 to July 29, 2022. This year, one online (remote) summer school program will be available.
Registration Information - Program Dates: July 4-29, 2022 - Registration is online. Program delivery method is in-person this year. One remote (online) program is available. Please see full list of programs.
Most classes run for three (3) hours from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., except for four (4) full day sites that run 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. which include: Alexander Stirling, Flemington, Rose Avenue and Yorkwoods.
Please note, there are limited spaces available for both in-person and remote (online) programs. The remote (online) program is NOT associated with a particular school. Students who are registered will be grouped by grade and assigned an online teacher.
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Meetings This Week
Wednesday, March 23 - Governance and Policy Committee - 4:30 pm - Agenda
- 5.1. P085, Student Attendance, Safe Arrival and Safe Departure Policy: Update
- 5.2. P098, Teacher Hiring Policy Review: Phase 1
- 5.3. Disconnecting From Work Policy: New Policy 5.4. P023, Parent and Community Involvement: Consultation Timeline
- 6.1. Bylaws Review Ad Hoc Committee, Report No. 09, February 10, 2022
Wednesday, March 23 - Special Board Meeting - 7:00 pm- Agenda to follow - Topic - Address School Safety
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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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Summer Employment Opportunities- City of Toronto Community Recreation (including camps, aquatic, sports & fitness): www.toronto.ca/recjobs (various information sessiosn coming up) .
- Toronto Election Services offers high school students across the city the opportunity to take part in the upcoming 2022 Municipal Election. By working in one of 1,500 voting places, students will benefit from a hands-on paid experience that will enhance their education and reinforce their civic responsibility. To learn more about Student Connect, join the next online WebEx information session scheduled for March 23 at 3:30 p.m. Please rsvp to electionsoutreach@toronto.ca and you will be sent the meeting link. If you have any questions, please contact Sabrina Salmeen, Project Coordinator, Recruitment, by email at sabrina.salmeen@toronto.ca or by phone at 416-338-6572.
- Centreville Amusement Park: positions include food services attendants, ticket sales and cashiers, servers, line cooks, prep cooks, ride attendants, retail and games attendants and more. Virtual Interviews will be held on March 16 & 17 between 10 am & 2 pm. Apply at apply@centreisland.ca.
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World Down Syndrome Day
This World Down Syndrome Day (March 21, 2022), we'll join the worldwide Down syndrome in proclaiming what #InclusionMeans to us. Celebrate and raise awareness by wearing bright, loud socks to celebrate that our differences make us beautiful.
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Earth Hour
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. Earth Hour started off as a lights-off event in Sydney, Australia, in 2007. It has grown to engage 192 countries and territories to raise awareness for energy consumption and effects on the environment. By turning off non-essential electricity, participants join a global movement to raise awareness and take action for a healthy planet. For more information, please visit Earth Hour Reports.
During Earth Hour, TDSB schools and offices are asked to go as electricity-free as possible for ONE HOUR on March 25th at 2pm. Wherever possible, our schools and offices will turn off alll interior lighting and any non-essential electronics and powerbars.
In 2011, the TDSB experienced its highest reduction in energy usage (29.9%.) at schools and offices. This year energy reduction will be tracked at each TDSB school, with the top 25 Elementary and Secondary schools getting a shout out! Let’s make this year our biggest energy reduction ever!
This Earth Hour on March 26th, millions around the world will be turning off the lights and speaking up why nature matters. Families and community members can participate from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. Consider registering your actions or event at the Global Earth Hour website.
Share your #TDSBEarthHour actions with @EcoSchoolsTDSB. Tell us if your school is already going beyond Earth Hour itself! Do students take an active role in organizing the campaign? Inspire and challenge other schools across the city.
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Virtual St. Paul's Summit - March 27 - 3pm
Please join me and the other Toronto-St. Paul’s elected officials from all orders of government - Hon. Carolyn Bennett, MP; Jill Andrew, MPP; Josh Matlow, Toronto City Councillor Ward 21 and Norm Di Pasquale, TCDSB Trustee - as we discuss how we can work together with you to create a more inclusive and sustainable community.
The event will be streamed here - Facebook page live. You don't need a Facebook account to watch the broadcast. If you have a question you would like answered by the panelists, please send your question in advance to carolyn.bennett@parl.gc.ca.
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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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Backpack and School Supplies Drive
This year’s Backpacks & School Supplies Drive will run from March 1, 2022 to the end of September 2022. Individual donors and companies can help our students by making a monetary donation and/or a donation of new backpacks and school supplies. Please contact the Business Development department at BusinessDevelopment@tdsb.on.ca for more information about how to donate new items. Tax receipts are available for these donations. Donate now.
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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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