April 19, 2024 - Elementary Program Review, Speaker Series: Be The Difference with Gaelin Elmore, Classroom Chronicles, and more.
Dear OCDSB Families,
This week I had two absolutely terrific school visits:
- I attended the 'Wellness Day' at Frederick Banting Alternate School Program... an opportunity for our bright, brilliant learners to connect with community-based agencies/organizations, holistically, on aspects of their learning and wellness.
- It was a treat to attend Glebe Collegiate Institute to see members of Canada's Paralympic Goalball Team interact with students. The team is in training sessions here in the National Capital Region in preparation for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, France. It was so inspiring to see our amazing students of blind/low vision learn the skills of goalball, working collaboratively and utilizing all of their senses, through the athletic exercises!
Elementary Program Review
The OCDSB is looking to improve our elementary program quality and accessibility. Currently, the district offers six programs, along with special education supports, classes, and programming. We also have 8 different elementary school configurations and a complex range of programs.
Why are we doing this review? While the current model has served the needs of many in our community for over 25 years, we know that many other students have been underserved. This is why we want to hear about everyone’s experiences, and any ideas on how to best help students succeed in the future. This program review could lead to several outcomes including adjustments, enhancements to the current model or exploration of other models.
Thank you to the nearly 200 parents, students and staff we have heard from so far. Your input will help decisions moving forward. Stay tuned for Community conversations in May or share your feedback on Engage OCDSB.
May 22nd: OCDSB Speaker Series: Be The Difference with Gaelin Elmore
We’re hosting a virtual session with speaker and facilitator Gaelin Elmore on Wednesday, May 22nd from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Gaelin will share his personal journey through childhood adversity and trauma, and explore the transformational power of belonging. Register now and learn more on our website.
Classroom Chronicles
Schools are finding meaningful ways to build connections among families, students, and staff. Lakeview Public School hosted a Family Wellbeing Night with engaging activities designed to help boost mental health and wellbeing. Meanwhile, Summerside Public School hosted an Iftar event during Ramadan to bring together the community and foster intercultural understanding.
Ridvan
The Festival of Ridvan commemorates the 12 days Bahá’u’lláh spent in the garden of Ridvan outside Baghdad. Wishing a happy Ridvan to all who are celebrating next week!
Passover
Passover is an important Jewish holiday that commemorates the freedom of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Chag Pesach Sameach to all who are celebrating next week!
Engage OCDSB: Share Your Feedback!
We want to hear your feedback on issues that matter to students, families, and staff. These consultations are currently open for input:
OCDSB EarlyON Centres: Drop-In Playgroups for Families with Children Ages 0-6
Do you have a child aged 6 or younger? Come to our EarlyON Child & Family Centres for free multi-age drop-in playgroups, offered daily on regular school days at eight locations across Ottawa. Our EarlyON Centres provide welcoming places where children and their parents, grandparents, and caregivers play and learn together. This is a great way to connect with other families in your community and help young children prepare for Kindergarten. Find a location near you!
Reminders:
2024 Student Survey - Now Open
The 2024 Valuing Voices Student Survey is now open! We encourage you to participate between now and May 10th. If you have any questions, our website includes Frequently Asked Questions and information in multiple languages. Visit: ocdsb.ca/studentsurvey
April 24th: Welcome to High School - Virtual Information Session for Afghan families
This virtual session, being held in English and Dari from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., will provide information about high school, the exciting pathways available, graduation requirements and more. Register Now. For more information, visit our website.
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.
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 open. 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 have applied to the Explore French Summer Program. This will allow us to follow up with students before, during, and after participation. We will be adding them into a Google Classroom, where they will be provided with the information on challenge requirements, signing up for an interview time and submitting their portfolio.
2024 Summer Language Classes and Camps (Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8)
Through interactive lessons and fun activities, your child will discover the joy of learning languages in a supportive environment that celebrates diversity and fosters cultural appreciation. Learn more about the programs and register now.
Registration Full - AFFIRM: Parent/Caregiver Information Program on Supporting 2SLGBTQ+ Youth
Registration is full for the virtual, 7-session group program designed to help parents/caregivers build confidence and skills to support their 2SLGBTQ+ child. Those who express interest will be added to the waitlist for the Fall.
From the Boardroom:
OCDSB Seeking Community Member to Serve on Audit Committee
The OCDSB is seeking a community member with financial expertise and business knowledge to serve as a volunteer on its Audit Committee. The appointment to the three-year term will commence immediately. Learn more about eligibility and how to apply.
Upcoming Board and Advisory Committee Meetings
April 25th, 7:00 p.m. - Board Meeting
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.
OCDSB Career Opportunities
Positions available include:
Visit our careers page to see job opportunities at the OCDSB and find out how you can make a real difference supporting our students and staff.
Student Summer Job Opportunities
Please note, due to overwhelming response, we will no longer be able to accept applications for other summer student employment opportunities highlighted in last week’s update after 2:00 p.m. on April 19.
In case you missed it:
Helpful Links:
Thank You,
Pino Buffone
Director of Education