September 22, 2023 - Student Transportation, Update regarding elementary school reorganizations, 2023-2024 Parent Involvement Committee: Applications Now Open, and more.
Dear OCDSB Families,
Earlier this week, rallies were held across the country and on Parliament Hill “against how schools teach gender ideology”. This has become very divisive and commonly pits claims for parental rights, protection of children, and indoctrination against claims of hate, transphobia, and safety. These demonstrations foster a culture of hate and fear.
What is unfortunate is that the demonstrations and counter demonstrations do not lead to conversation. They do not generate critical thinking, dialogue, or discussion. There is no learning from each other, there is little respect, acceptance or empathy.
Schools are places of learning. We have a responsibility to provide an education to all students in a safe, caring, and welcoming environment. We stand unequivocally with the 2SLGBTQ+ community who we know are facing rising discrimination and violence. Please read our statement.
Student Transportation
Many students across the district continue to be affected by transportation cancellations. Earlier this week, the Education Minister met with a group of parents to hear their concerns and we know families continue to advocate to their trustees and local MPP for help to resolve this issue. As the transportation disruptions continue, we understand the frustrations you and your families are experiencing. We are very sorry that OCDSB families have to go through this. Please continue to use the Parent Portal and monitor the route cancellations for up-to-date information.
Update regarding elementary school reorganizations
Every September, student enrolment numbers across the district are reviewed. Our analysis has found that student enrolment across the district has been less than was projected for this school year. While every effort is being made to minimize disruption to students and staff, we will be required to make changes to classroom arrangements in a number of elementary schools. Should there be changes in your school, you will receive more information from your principal next week.
2023-2024 Parent Involvement Committee: Applications Now Open
Are you an OCDSB parent or guardian interested in education, student achievement, and well-being? Applications are now open for Parent Involvement Committee (PIC) membership for the 2023-2024 school year.
Upcoming Board and Advisory Committee Meetings
September 26th, 7:00 p.m. - Board Meeting
September 29th, 6:00 p.m. - Advisory Committee on Equity (ACE)
Agendas, minutes, livestreams and recordings of meetings are available for public viewing using the Board and Advisory Committees' meeting calendar.
September 27th: Rowan’s Law Day
The last Wednesday of every September is designated as Rowan’s Law Day, which honours Rowan Stringer’s memory and raises awareness about concussion safety. Rowan Stringer was a competitive and keen athlete, and was captain of John McCrae Secondary School’s rugby team. She passed away tragically in May of 2013 at just 17 years old, as the result of head injuries she sustained while playing rugby. Visit our website to learn more about recognizing the symptoms of concussion and for additional resources.
September 30th: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day is a day of mourning and remembrance for Indigenous Peoples, and offers an opportunity to reflect and honour survivors, their families, and communities. This year, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation falls on Saturday, September 30. OCDSB students and staff will mark this date at school on Friday, September 29. Learn more about what the OCDSB is doing, how you can take action, and how students and staff will be marking this date at school.
Muslim Students Group in Celebration of Islamic Heritage Month
In celebration of Islamic Heritage Month, which takes place each October, Muslim students in grades 7-12 are invited to join a virtual weekly Google Hangout. This hangout is open to all students who are a part of a Muslim family, including those who are exploring their Muslim identities. This is a student-led and student-driven space. Students will need to log in to their OCDSB Google account to access the Meet. Meets will take place from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on the following dates:
- Monday, October 2, 2023
- Monday, October 16, 2023
- Monday, October 23, 2023
- Monday, October 30, 2023
Please note there is no meeting on Monday, October 9th. For questions or to get the Google Meet code, please reach out to [email protected].
In case you missed it:
School Bus Drivers needed: If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a school bus driver, please visit driveyellow.ca. The website provides all the information necessary to learn about qualifications, training, operators and has an easy application process.
OCDSB Speaker Series - Journeying Together: Parenting Through the Storm - Recording
The first OCDSB Speaker Series event saw guest speaker and best-selling author Ann Douglas share strategies for how parents can strengthen relationships with their children and get to a happy, healthy place as a family. Over 140 people attended this virtual event where Ann also provided tips for parenting that gave parents permission to be gloriously imperfect (allowing their children to do the same). The session recording is available for those who missed it or would like to watch it again.
Open Trails Day - Saturday, September 23rd, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Take a hike through the trails and discover the biodiversity of the MacSkimming Outdoor Education Centre on its annual Open Trails Day.
Register for Fall 2023 Virtual Night School
Learn more about what Night School has to offer, and register by Monday, September 25th. Questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out to [email protected] or 613-239-2620.
OCDSB Job Fairs - October 2nd and 5th
We are looking for office assistants, custodians, educational assistants, early childhood educators and early learning assistants. Join us for this in-person event and learn more about all the opportunities we offer across Ottawa.
Get Involved in School Council
School councils are a great way for you to get involved in your child’s school. Contact your school for more information.
Information Session: Building Resilience Among Youth in the Face of Suicide
Royal Mental Health Centre (1145 Carling Ave). Contact [email protected] to register.
Date: September 28th, Time: 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Helpful Links:
Thank You,
Pino Buffone
Director of Education