September 30, 2022 - Reminder - October 7th: Professional Activity Day, October 26th: Virtual Information Session on International Learning Opportunities, and more.

September 30, 2022 - Reminder - October 7th: Professional Activity Day, October 26th: Virtual Information Session on International Learning Opportunities, and more.
Posted on 09/30/2022

Hello Students,

Today is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day. This is a day of mourning and remembrance for Indigenous people, and an opportunity for all to reflect and honour survivors, their families, and their communities. It is also an opportunity to ensure that public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process. Please remember that mental health resources are available for those who may need them. 

Reminder - October 7th: Professional Activity Day 

There will be no classes held on Friday, October 7th. 

October 26th: Virtual Information Session on International Learning Opportunities

Do you want to learn more about the International Certificate Program, international exchanges and studying abroad? Join us for a virtual information session on Wednesday, October 26th to learn more. Details on our website.

Virtual Black Excellence Club and Hangout for Students in Grades 7-12

Student-led hangouts continue this year for African, Black and Caribbean (ABC) OCDSB students in grades 7-12. The group will meet virtually on Thursdays from 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. to provide a culturally responsive and welcoming environment where ABC students can connect. The first hangout will take place on Thursday, October 6th. For the Google Meet code, please reach out to a Black Excellence Club staff leader, Student Success Teacher (7-12), or your Principal/Vice Principal. You will need to log in to Google Meet using your OCDSB account to join. If you have any questions, contact [email protected].

Add Dates from the OCDSB School Year Calendars to your Own Digital Calendar 

With just a few clicks, you can now add dates from the OCDSB’s secondary school year calendar to your own personal digital calendars. Visit our website for step-by-step instructions.

Appropriate Use of Technology 

At the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) we believe in digital citizenship and the use of technology to enhance learning and to support the work environment. Technology includes computers, cell phones, the internet or other electronic devices. Students are responsible for acknowledging that technology will be used in a responsible and ethical manner consistent with our Appropriate Use of Technology Procedure. Take some time to review your obligations under this procedure. 

Did you know…

In October we recognize many significant dates, including Learning Disabilities Awareness Month, Canadian Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month, Cyber Security Month, Women’s History Month, and many more. Information for staff, students, and families will be posted on our website and social media channels throughout the month. Specific dates can be viewed on our calendar

Islamic Heritage Month 

Every year in October, Islamic Heritage Month is recognized in Canada. This is a time to learn together about Islamic excellence and the rich, longstanding contributions Muslim people have made to literature, math, science, art and history. We must also reflect on our shared responsibility to identify, challenge and eradicate Islamophobia and anti-Muslim discrimination and hate. You can read more on our website. 

Google Hangout for Muslim Students

In celebration of Islamic Heritage Month, Muslim students in grades 7-12 are invited to join a virtual weekly Google hangout. This hangout is open to all students who are a part of a Muslim family, including those who are exploring their Muslim identities. This is a student led and student driven space. Log in to your OCDSB google account to access the meet - to obtain the Google Meet code, please reach out to your Student Success Teacher (7-12), or Principal/Vice Principal. Meets will take place on the following dates: 

Monday, October  3rd, 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Monday October 10th, 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Monday, October 17th, 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.

If you have any questions, please reach out to [email protected]

Latin American and Hispanic Heritage Month 

October is recognized as Latin American Heritage Month in Canada, and Hispanic Heritage Month in the province of Ontario. This month is an opportunity for our staff, students and community members to join us in recognizing and celebrating the heritage, culture, achievements, and contributions of Latin American and Hispanic communities across Canada. Read more on our website

October 4th-5th: Yom Kippur

Yom Kippur will begin at sunset on October 4th. This is a day of fasting, and is the year’s holiest day for Jewish families. We send our best wishes to everyone in the #OCDSB community observing Yom Kippur, and wish you an easy fast. 

October 5th: Dussehra 

In Hinduism, Dussehra celebrates the victory of good over evil. It follows the nine-day celebration of Navaratri (nine nights) and Durga Puja (worship). Wishing a Happy Dussehra to everyone who will be celebrating. 

School News

At W.E. Gowling Public School, preparations are in full swing to celebrate the school’s 75th anniversary! All former staff, students, and community members are welcome to drop in at the school on October 6th from 3:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Learn more.

Celebrating Our Staff 

Throughout the month of October, there are a number of opportunities to appreciate our teachers, Principals, custodians, and many more incredible staff members. These include:   

National Principals Month 

National Custodial Workers Day on October 2nd 

World Teachers Day on October 5th 

Child Care Worker and Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day on October 18th 

Canadian Library Workers Day on October 21st 

We are grateful to all our staff for their hard work and commitment to our schools and work sites. Their enthusiasm and dedication are greatly appreciated by all! 

Thank you, 

Camille Williams-Taylor

Director of Education 

 

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