September 15, 2023 - Student Transportation, Shifting Focus From the Boardroom to the Classroom, and more.

Posted on 09/15/2023

Dear OCDSB Families,

This weekend is the annual Terry Fox Run. Many families have made a tradition of participating in this event, honouring a truly great Canadian who embodied hope, courage and determination. I recently learned that OCDSB schools have raised over $3M for the Terry Fox Foundations through school based events over the past 20 years. I am constantly amazed by the positive impact that our schools make and the generosity of families, students and staff.

Student Transportation

We are very sorry for the inconvenience and frustration that families affected by transportation disruptions are experiencing. We met with the Ottawa Student Transportation Authority (OSTA) again this week to work towards solutions. We hope to have more information on solutions in the coming weeks. Please continue to use the OSTA Parent Portal and monitor the route cancellations for up-to-date information.

While we work through this period, schools are working to adjust drop off zones to ensure safety. We’ve received concerns from families regarding increased traffic congestion at schools and safety issues. We’re asking everyone to help make schools safe. Please:

Reduce speed near all school zones.
Do not park in bus lanes, accessible parking spaces or double-park on the street.
If possible, park a short distance away.
Ride share with other members of the school community.
Have your child walk to school (See OSTA walk zone maps for schools).

We also request that you do not drop off your child at the school before supervision time begins.

Thank you for your continued kindness and understanding shown towards school bus drivers.

School Bus Drivers needed: If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a school bus driver, please visit driveyellow.ca. The website provides all the information necessary to learn about qualifications, training, operators and has an easy application process.

Shifting Focus From the Boardroom to the Classroom

I wanted to respond to concerns many have shared in response to media coverage about the special meeting held on Monday regarding Board member code of conduct. This has been a complex and divisive issue for everyone, and there are many different and divided perspectives. The Board met on Tuesday evening and recognizes its responsibility to focus its efforts on student learning, well-being, and social responsibility. As part of our commitment to be both accountable and responsive to the community, we wanted to share these details and the steps we are taking to address these issues.

Sending Best Wishes to All Who are Celebrating Rosh Hashanah

Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, will begin the evening of September 15th and continue until September 17th. It marks the beginning of the Ten Days of Awe, which will conclude with Yom Kippur. This is an important time of celebration, introspection, and reflection for Jewish families. This year, Rosh Hashanah marks the beginning of the year 5784. Shanah Tovah to all who will be celebrating this important holiday!

Open Trails Day - Saturday, September 23rd, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

The MacSkimming Outdoor Education Centre is having its annual Open Trails Day. Take a hike through the trails and discover the biodiversity of this unique site. This is the only day of this school year when this 425-acre classroom will be open to the public for everyone to explore.

Get Involved in School Council

School councils are one way that parents can get involved in their child’s school. Any parent can be elected to the school council. The election of school council members is held in the first 30 days of the school year. If you are interested in participating in the school council, watch for information from your child’s school.

Information Session: Building Resilience Among Youth in the Face of Suicide

Suicide Prevention Ottawa, CHEO, Ottawa Public Health and The Royal Mental Health Centre are offering a presentation by a youth with lived and living experiences, a psychologist, and a public health nurse to build understanding about how to foster resilience among youth who struggle with suicide. The presentation will take place at The Royal Mental Health Centre (1145 Carling Ave). Contact [email protected] to register.

Date: September 28th

Time: 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

OCDSB Job Fairs - October 2nd and 5th

Are you looking for a new career or a way to earn extra income? Do you want to make a real difference in supporting students? The OCDSB is hosting job fairs the first week of October for office assistants, custodians, educational assistants, early childhood educators and early learning assistants. It’s your chance to learn more about all the opportunities we offer across Ottawa. Visit our website for more information.

Classroom Chronicles

Last week, we were happy to welcome students back to class across the district. Classrooms were buzzing with excitement as students connected with staff, made new friends, and dove into another year of learning.

Ottawa Public Health - Helpful Resources

Ottawa Public Health offers a variety of services to make it easier for your child to grow up healthy, including information about immunizations and helping children adjust to school.

Ottawa Carleton District School Board