May 26, 2023 - Here We Grow Again!, Student Transportation: New Joint Custody Applications Due June 1, 2023, and more.
Dear Families,
Here We Grow Again!
The OCDSB is excited to announce that the Ontario government has granted approval to proceed to award the tender for construction for two new schools. With these much anticipated approvals in place, the OCDSB can now move forward with the construction of a new elementary school in Findlay Creek and a new high school in Riverside South. These new sites are in addition to Shingwàkons Public School in Stittsville, which opened to students in January 2023. In January 2024, families in Barrhaven are expected to move into a new elementary school in the Half Moon Bay community. In September 2024, a new high school will open in Stittsville. Learn more about our plans to support families in our growing community.
Student Transportation: New Joint Custody Applications Due June 1, 2023
Families with joint custody arrangements with students residing in two homes can apply for transportation service through OSTA. The deadline for NEW applications is June 1, 2023. For families who want to renew and have no changes to the student information (address, school, etc.) or schedule, then only a calendar must be submitted to OSTA by June 30. Learn more.
Student Success Days/Exam Days for Secondary Students
Secondary schools will again be having Student Success Days/Exam Days at the end of June. These days provide an opportunity for students to consolidate their learning and improve their achievement. More details are available below and on our website.
On the last two instructional days of the school year, no new assignments or tasks will be introduced, allowing students to work on review, remediation, and conferencing with their teacher to determine what areas of growth to explore during Student Success Days. Regular attendance expectations and classroom schedules will be in place on these days. On Student Success Days/Exam Days, students are only required to attend school to engage in student success activities or to complete final examinations (for students in grades 11 and 12) or final evaluation tasks. Expectations on these days will vary by course and grade level.
Important Dates for Semestered Schools
- The last two instructional days for students will be June 19 and 20, 2023.
- Student Success Days/Exam Days will take place on June 21, 22, 23, 26, and 27, 2023.
Important Dates for Full Year Schools
- The last two instructional days for students will be June 12 and 13, 2023
- Student Success Days/Exam Days will take place on June 14, 15, 16, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 26, and 27, 2023.
All Specialized Program Classes that do not offer a credit bearing pathway in high schools will continue to operate as regular instructional days. These classes will follow the school timetable and activities that normally take place on the last two instructional days, and Student Success Days/Exam Days.
Parents are encouraged to speak with their children about how they can use student success days effectively.
Upcoming Board Meeting - Celebrating the Winners of our Community Recognition Awards
The winners of the OCDSB Community Recognition Awards will be announced at the Board meeting on Tuesday, May 30 at 7:30 pm. Please join us in person or online to celebrate our winners, and learn more about the amazing contributions of the nominees on our website.
Recommended Budget to be Presented at Committee of the Whole - Budget
The 2023-2024 Staff Recommended Budget will be presented to Trustees at the committee of the whole meeting on Wednesday, May 31st. All are welcome to watch the livestream of the meeting on our website.
OCDSB Continuing Education Opportunities
Take a look at Continuing Education’s interactive flyer to see the incredible programs being offered this summer. OCDSB Continuing Education opportunities are designed for learners of all ages, and include international and Indigenous language classes, English as a Second Language (ESL) and Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) classes, and more.
Education Foundation of Ottawa - Request for Volunteers
HOPE Volleyball Summerfest has chosen the Education Foundation of Ottawa (EFO) as one of the local charities to receive funds raised during this year’s event. The EFO is providing volunteers to help support the event. If you are interested in volunteering in Gate Admissions, Score Keeping, and/or Grounds Maintenance, please sign up using this Google Form. Anyone over the age of 16 (or 15 years old with an adult to accompany them) can volunteer!
Upcoming Events
- Friday, June 2: PA Day for Elementary Students. There will be no classes for elementary students on Friday, June 2 as staff work on report card preparation and other priorities.
- Wednesday, June 7: Black Youth Forum. Join us from 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at the University of Ottawa for the sixth annual Black Youth Forum. We invite Grades 7–12 students, family members, staff, Trustees and community partners who identify as African, Black or Afro-African Caribbean and their allies. This year, our theme is Black Joy, and we will explore different topics such as Black representation, community, influence, and self-worth. Please register before June 2, 2023.
- Wednesday, June 7 and Thursday, June 8: OCDSB Skateboards for Indigenous Youth Showcases. Students from Urban Aboriginal Alternate and Norman Johnston Alternate programs have created an outstanding set of personal skateboards, in collaboration with local Métis artist Jaime Morse, to provide to Indigenous youth in need in Ottawa. In addition to valuable cultural exchange, the project has provided students with the opportunity to develop hands-on skills in woodworking, design, painting, drawing, and leadership. Join one of two open houses to celebrate their work: the events will take place on Wednesday, June 7th, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Urban Aboriginal Alternate, 440 Albert St, and on Thursday, June 8th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the National Arts Centre (1 Elgin St in the Canal Lobby).
- Saturday, June 24: Gloucester High School 60th Anniversary Reunion: Did you attend Gloucester High School? The school is hosting a reunion for alumni from the past 60 years. Early bird tickets are now on sale!
Important Dates in the Month/Week Ahead
- National AccessAbility Week and Red Shirt Day. National AccessAbility Week, recognized from May 28 to June 3, raises awareness about the importance of accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities. On May 31, Red Shirt Day encourages wearing red to show support and celebrate the accomplishments of Canadians with disabilities.
- National Indigenous History Month celebrates the brilliance of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples. Join us in learning and reflecting upon the history, role models, leaders, accomplishments, and culture of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples. June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day which is a day of observance for many families. A reminder that Indigenous Self-Identification is a confidential process and students are not required to self-identify if they wish to be absent from school on this day to observe with their families and community.
- Pride Month is an opportunity to celebrate diversity, learn about the achievements and histories of 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, acknowledge the many challenges 2SLGBTQ+ communities continue to face. The OCDSB reaffirms our support for all identities and stands together against discrimination. As part of our commitment to creating and sustaining a culture of caring, the OCDSB Pride flag will fly outside all schools and administration buildings in June.
- Filipino Heritage Month is an opportunity to celebrate and learn about Filipino Canadians and the many contributions they have made across the province.
- Brain Injury Awareness Month is an important opportunity to raise awareness about the signs and symptoms of brain injuries like concussions.
- Portuguese Heritage Month is a time to celebrate, and learn more about the history, culture, and accomplishments of Portuguese Canadians.
- Italian Heritage Month celebrates the Italian Canadian community and the many contributions they have made in Ontario.
- Global Day of Parents on June 1 celebrates the hard work and dedication of parents around the world.
Thank you,
Michele Giroux
Director of Education