October 27, 2023 - Halloween, November 3 - Elementary Professional Activity Day, Flu vaccine, and more.
Dear OCDSB Families,
Over the last week, OCDSB educators and administrators have enjoyed many opportunities for professional learning. School principals gathered to review provincial assessment data and to develop strategies to close achievement gaps. As part of Islamic Heritage Month, educators from across the District participated in professional learning to explore conditions to centre, support and affirm Muslim-identifying learners. We also had some staff participate in a national conference to learn more about artificial intelligence and how it might impact education. As a school district, we are committed to lifelong learning and to professional development which helps to build our capacity to better support students.
Halloween
Tuesday, October 31st is Halloween. OCDSB schools may choose to mark this in a variety of ways, but the focus is to keep activities fun and respectful for all students, and not too scary, especially for younger children. Students can choose whether or not to participate in Halloween-related activities. Check with your child’s school or class for more information about planned activities.
If your child is wearing a costume, please:
- Avoid costumes that mimic the traditional attire of an ethnic, religious, racial or gender group. Pretending to be a member of a group is cultural appropriation and sends the message that cultural attire is a ‘costume’ to be donned for entertainment purposes.
- Avoid costumes that are intended to, or have the impact of, inciting, fear and anxiety, stereotyping, misrepresenting or making fun of an ethnic, religious, racial or gender group. As always, our student dress code is in effect.
On Halloween night, it can be hard to see trick-or-treating children. Please drive safely and remind your children to be extra cautious of traffic.
November 3 - Elementary Professional Activity Day
Friday, November 3, 2023, is a Professional Activity Day for OCDSB school staff that focuses on key Ministry Priorities: Literacy and Numeracy; Curriculum Implementation; and Student Mental Health and Well-Being. Elementary students remain at home but schools remain open for school staff to engage in their learning and professional development.
Flu vaccine
Getting your annual flu vaccine is an important way to help protect yourself, your family and high-risk groups in your community against seasonal flu. Refugee 613 has created helpful information in multiple languages that breaks down the basics of what you need to know to protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu.
Celebrating Success
OCDSB students, staff, alumni, and volunteers have been recognized through awards and prize-winning efforts in competitions. This fall, we’re celebrating OCDSB success in the Prime Minister’s Awards, Ontario Principals’ Council Awards, Schulich Builders Scholarships for Skilled Trades, International Mathematical Olympiad, and more.
Student Transportation Update
OSTA is actively working with operators to cover a shortage of 50 school bus drivers, down from 71 on October 5th. Earlier this week OSTA announced plans to resolve the current bus driver shortage, including the ongoing DriveYellow recruitment campaign, which has received more than 430 applications. OSTA will be holding a Public Governance Meeting on Monday, November 6, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. via Google Meet. Please fill out the registration form if you are interested in attending.
November 29 - Save the Date: All About High School Virtual Information Night
We invite Grade 7-12 students, their parents and caregivers, and staff for the All About High School virtual information session on November 29, 2023, 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. This virtual event is a great opportunity to learn about subjects, programs, and other exciting aspects of high school. Participants can ask questions and learn about topics that interest them. Registration and more details will be shared in the next update.
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 (OCDSB student login required). The last of these weekly Hangouts will take place on Monday, October 30th, 2023 from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. For more details, email [email protected].
Upcoming Board and Advisory Committee Meetings
October 30th, 7:00 p.m. - Board Meeting
November 1st, 7:00 p.m. - Special Education Advisory Committee
Agendas, locations, minutes, livestreams and recordings of meetings are available for public viewing using the Board and Advisory Committees' meeting calendar.
School Council News
Our School Council News page provides useful resources for School Council members. This month, we've shared a series of training videos, tips for engaging families, information on approved food product providers, and more. Interested in getting involved in your School Council? Speak with your principal for more information.
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 significance. Additional dates of significance can be found in our MultiFaith calendar and on our website.
We Are Hiring
We are currently hiring for several opportunities, including Early Childhood Educators and Early Learning Assistants. Visit our careers page to see job opportunities at the OCDSB and find out how you can make a real difference in supporting our students and staff.
In case you missed it:
Events:
Helpful Links:
Thank You,
Pino Buffone
Director of Education