December 8, 2023 - Canadian Music Class Challenge 2023: National finalists, Events, and more.
Dear OCDSB Families,
At our System Leaders' meeting on Wednesday of this week, I had the opportunity to thank our incredibly talented principals and vice-principals, general managers and senior staff for their extraordinary leadership and management of our schools and central departments. This group of caring and committed leaders contributes so greatly to the core of our organization. I see this each and every day whether I am in the board office or at a school site. A key theme of the meeting was the launch of our employee 'Gratitude and Giving Campaign'. This campaign brings together the annual fundraising we do for the United Way of Eastern Ontario (UWEO) and for the Education Foundation of Ottawa (EFO). The OCDSB has a strong commitment to community, caring, and social responsibility. The campaign provides us with a way to give back or pay forward in the service of others. Please consider a donation to either the Education Foundation of Ottawa or the United Way of Eastern Ontario if you are able - every little bit makes a huge difference!
On Thursday, December 7th at sundown, Jewish families in our community and around the world gathered in their homes to light the menorah, beginning the eight-day Festival of Lights. On behalf of the district, I'd like to wish those celebrating a happy Hanukkah. May this Festival of Lights bring you joy.
Canadian Music Class Challenge 2023: National finalists
We’re excited to share that several OCDSB schools are finalists in the CBC Canadian Music Class Challenge. The annual competition is an opportunity for schools across the country to showcase their talent and engage with Canadian music.
The winners will be announced on December 13th. Please join us in cheering on students from:
It has been wonderful to see a number of schools across the district participate in this competition. Thank you to all of these musicians and music teachers supporting this learning.
Events:
High School Information Sessions
If your child will be starting high school next year, we can help you get ready. We will be offering students and parents/caregivers a variety of opportunities to learn more about high school and all of the amazing programs we offer. Secondary schools across the OCDSB are now hosting high school information sessions for students and parents/guardians. It’s a fantastic way to visit the school, meet staff, and learn how to prepare for this next step. Visit our high school information sessions page for the schedule and links to helpful tips and resources.
December 11: School Within A University (SWAU) Information Session
The OCDSB, in partnership with Carleton University, is proud to announce a pilot project called School Within A University (SWAU). SWAU will provide students in grades 11 & 12 with positive opportunities to experience a university learning environment. To know more, Grades 11 & 12 students and their parents/caregivers are invited for a virtual information session on Monday, December 11, 2023, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. This session, hosted by OCDSB’s Program and Learning Innovation staff, will share details about this pilot project and also include a Q&A section.
December 20: Applying to Post-Secondary Information Session
We are hosting a Post-Secondary Applications Information Session on Wednesday, December 20th from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. This virtual session will provide Grade 12 students and their parents/caregivers information about the process of applying to post-secondary education in Canada, with a focus on apprenticeships, colleges and universities.
Recording - Explore French Summer Program Information Session
The Explore program is an immersive French summer program that gives secondary students an opportunity to build language skills and enjoy French cultural activities. To learn more, watch the recording of our recent information session.
Upcoming Board and Advisory Committee Meetings
December 11th, 12:00 p.m. - Advocacy Strategy Committee
December 11th, 7:00 p.m. - Committee of the Whole, Budget
December 14th, 6:00 p.m. - Indigenous Education Council
Agendas, locations, minutes, livestreams and recordings of meetings are available for public viewing using the Board and Advisory Committees' meeting calendar.
Calendars and Planning for Important Dates
Please consult the OCDSB’s Elementary and Secondary calendars for PA Days, holidays, exam dates, and more during the 2023-2024 school year. In addition, schools avoid scheduling activities like evaluations and field trips on certain religious/creed-based days of observance. Additional dates of significance can be found on the MultiFaith Calendar (located on our home page), Dates of Significance webpage, and on the Government of Canada, Ontario Government, and United Nations websites.
In case you missed it:
Helpful Links:
Thank You,
Pino Buffone
Director of Education