June 12, 2023 - Results Available: OCDSB School Climate Survey, YOCISO Mental Health Promotion Program For Youth, Classroom Chronicles, and more
Dear Families,
Last Wednesday, I had the opportunity to attend the Black Youth Forum. My sincere congratulations to the students who organized this fantastic event and to the staff who supported that work. I learned very much in conversation with students and colleagues, and will continue to reflect on how I might carry forward the celebration of Black Joy in my work. I have heard wonderful feedback about the event from many parents, caregivers, students, and staff who participated, and look forward to seeing these conversations continue.
Results Available: OCDSB School Climate Survey
In March 2023 the OCDSB conducted a School Climate Survey for Parents and Caregivers, followed by a School Climate Survey for Educators in April 2023. The purpose of these surveys was to gather information about families’ experiences in school, specifically in the areas of engagement, environment, safety, and well-being. More than 8,700 parents and caregivers, and more than 2,100 school-based staff completed the surveys. Visit our website to see some of the District-level highlights.
YOCISO Mental Health Promotion Program For Youth
From July 11 to August 10, the Ottawa Community Immigrant Services Organization (OCISO) is offering a 10-week mental health promotion program called STRONG (Supporting Transition Resilience of Newcomer Groups) for students between the ages of 10 and 14. STRONG is an evidence-informed, school-based intervention for immigrant and refugee youth that aims to build resilience and address psychological distress associated with the newcomer experience. The program is led by OCISO clinical counselors and YOCISO Youth Facilitators. Learn more and register now.
Classroom Chronicles
The Lisgar Collegiate Institute Flute and String Ensemble debuted an original composition, “Beauty and Grace,” co-created with award-winning Indigenous recording artist David Finkle. Listen to their performance.
The spotlight was on Woodroffe High School at the National Theatre School’s Provincial DramaFest showcase in Toronto. Grade 11 Drama students earned the Excellence in Directing Award for their production of the thriller Chairs.
Bayshore Public School was recognized for their ongoing work to champion literacy in the school community by being selected to receive a $40,000 Literacy Fund Grant from the Indigo Love of Reading Foundation!
Upcoming Events
- Monday, June 12, 7:00 p.m: Committee of the Whole, Budget, and Special Board Meeting. The Committee of the Whole, Budget, will meet at 7:00 p.m. to discuss the staff-recommended budget for the 2022-2023 school year, followed immediately by a special board meeting. Save this link to watch the livestream.
- Tuesday, June 13, 7:00 p.m: Committee of the Whole Meeting. The Committee of the Whole will hear reports on the 2022-2023 Special Education Plan, the new 2023-2027 Strategic Plan, and the Naming of the New Elementary School in Half Moon Bay. They will also discuss motions on discussions with Ottawa Police Services and the Ottawa-Carleton Educational Space Simulation, as well as other matters. View the agenda and save this link to watch the livestream.
- Sunday, August 27: School Bus and Pedestrian Safety Day. An opportunity for the whole family to learn about school bus and pedestrian safety; children will be able to ride a real bus and join the Ottawa Safety Council for safety training. Register now.
Thank you,
Michele Giroux
Director of Education