April 12, 2024 - Student Summer Job Opportunities, Now Open - 2024 Valuing Voices, Our Toonie Tuesday Results Are In!, and more.
Hello Students,
Over the past week, I have had the opportunity to meet with many members of our various committees with respect to the Elementary Program Review that our District has recently launched. These conversations have led to inspirational, thoughtful feedback and input that will undoubtedly shape our move forward as an organization. We also want to hear about your experiences and any ideas on how to best help students succeed in the future. Share your feedback on Engage OCDSB.
Student Summer Job Opportunities
Are you looking for a job this summer? The OCDSB has employment opportunities available for students.
- Student summer employment: Work is available with our Corporate Records Department and Maintenance/Facilities Division. The application deadline is May 3rd at 2:00 p.m.. Learn more.
- Casual custodian: Students are encouraged to apply to work as a casual custodian with the OCDSB. More details can be found in the job posting.
Now Open - 2024 Valuing Voices - Identity Matters Student Survey
The 2024 Valuing Voices Student Survey is now open! We encourage you to participate between now and May 10th. Students in grades 7 to 12 should have received an email with a link to complete the survey. Unfortunately, due to some technical issues, we had to reissue the survey link. Please be sure to use the Updated Link that was sent on April 11th. Unfortunately, those of you who were quick to complete the survey will need to resubmit your responses. We apologize for any inconvenience and are grateful for your patience and support. If you have any questions, our website includes Frequently Asked Questions and information in multiple languages. Visit: ocdsb.ca/studentsurvey
Our Toonie Tuesday Results Are In!
Students, staff members, and families across the OCDSB raised $63,385.00 through the Toonie Tuesday campaign! The funds from our annual signature fundraiser will help the Education Foundation of Ottawa reduce barriers to student learning and well-being. Like you, we believe all students deserve equitable opportunities to succeed by having access to food, clothing, school supplies, healthcare supports, and opportunities for learning and recreation. Next year’s Toonie Tuesday will be held on Tuesday, February 25, 2025.
Educational Collaborative Network of Ontario Cyber Awareness Focus Groups
Do you want to help make the internet a safer place? The Educational Collaborative Network of Ontario (ECNO) is planning for the 2024 Cyber Awareness campaign in October. This is all about teaching students like you how to stay safe online.
They're looking for students in grades 9-12 to join virtual focus groups. These groups will last 45 minutes each and will talk about important stuff like privacy, safety, scams, bullying, and how the online world affects our mental health.
Don't worry, adults will be there to guide the discussion, and nothing you say will be tied back to you personally. The sessions won't be recorded either but the facilitators will take notes. You do need your parent or guardian's permission to take part.
To sign up, all you have to do is register and fill out some basic information. Make sure to get your parent or caregiver to sign off too. Then, choose which date works best for you. Organizers will get back to you to confirm your spot. The deadline to register is 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 16th. Let's make the internet a safer place together!
May 2nd: Transitioning to the World of Work - Information Session and Resource Fair for Youth with Disabilities
On May 2nd from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., we are hosting an event at the Confederation Education Centre to help secondary students with disabilities navigate and succeed in the workplace. This event will support students in understanding their rights, how to advocate for themselves, and what services can help them achieve their full career potential. Learn more.
Reminders:
May 4th: Open Trails Day at Bill Mason Outdoor Education Centre
Bill Mason Outdoor Education Centre is having its annual Open Trails Day on Saturday, May 4th from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This is the only day of the year when this 77-acre classroom is open to the public for everyone to explore!
Spring/Summer Virtual French Programs - Free
The Canadian Parents for French (CPF) is offering Virtual French Programs, free to all families in our school board, ensuring the most equitable opportunity for students to learn and practice their French in an academic and fun environment over the summer. The programs are designed to develop students’ oral proficiency; interest in reading; and build their confidence. Registration opens on April 15th. For more details, visit their website.
Explore French Summer Program 2024 - Let us know you’ve applied
Please use this form to let us know if you've applied to the Explore French Summer Program. This will allow us to follow up with you before, during, and after your participation. We will be adding you into a Google Classroom, where you will be provided with the information on challenge requirements, signing up for an interview time and submitting your portfolio.
Share Your Feedback: Advisory Committee on Equity Policy
The Committee is currently reviewing its policy to better serve its needs and support the District's strategic goals. Learn more and share your input by April 22nd.
From the Boardroom:
Upcoming Board and Advisory Committee Meetings
April 16th, 7:00 p.m. - Committee of the Whole
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
I would also like to take this opportunity to wish all students, staff and community members of the Muslim faith a blessed and joyous Eid al-Fitr. Eid Mubarak!
Thank you,
Pino Buffone
Director of Education