June 29, 2023 - 2023-2027 Strategic Plan Approved, New school: Wazoson Public School, Classroom Chronicles, and more.
Dear Families,
Congratulations - we have reached the end of the school year.
The past few weeks have been filled with leaving ceremonies, commencements, and celebrations. We have consistently been inspired by our community of curious, creative, and compassionate students – by their motivation to learn and their support for one another. And to the parents, caregivers, grandparents, foster parents: thank you for your love, support, time, energy, and contribution to our schools and students.
It has been a privilege for me to serve as Director of Education these past six months. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the Board of Trustees, my colleagues, and to the community for your support. We have accomplished much as we navigated the many challenges of this school year.
Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education, has prepared messages to Ontario parents, students and graduates. Please read Minister Lecce’s letter to parents, watch a video message for all students, and watch a special congratulations video to the graduates of 2023.
2023-2027 Strategic Plan Approved
The OCDSB has approved the 2023-2027 Strategic Plan. We thank everyone who shared their insights about what matters most to support student learning and well-being. The key areas of focus identified were: Learning; Well-Being; and Social Responsibility. These three pillars reflect the requests we heard to put learning at the forefront of the strategic plan; to support student and staff wellness; and to acknowledge our collective responsibilities to society and the environment. The new Strategic Plan will come into effect in September 2023. Learn more.
New school: Wazoson Public School
The OCDSB is proud to announce that the new elementary school in the Half Moon Bay community in Barrhaven will be officially named Wazoson Public School. The name was chosen following consultation through the spring of 2023 with students, parents, staff and members of the Half Moon Bay community. Read more about the new name.
Classroom Chronicles
OCDSB students created a variety of businesses and social enterprises as part of our Entrepreneurship Pilot Project. Their innovative enterprises were celebrated at the Youth Ottawa Untapped Showcase and JA Ottawa Awards.
Nearly 1,200 students had the opportunity to try out the trades through the Pioneers of Trades program, with hands-on workshops ranging from culinary to construction. Meanwhile, 300 secondary students explored career pathways at the Women in Trades Career Discovery Expo.
OCDSB schools celebrated Pride Month and learned about the achievements and histories of 2SLGBTQ+ individuals. This month, and throughout the year, we focused on curriculum expectations linked to equity, human rights, and overcoming discrimination. From collaborative artwork to flying the Pride flag, see how schools marked Pride Month.
Brookfield High School students collaborated with a local artist to create an Eco Mural showcasing the beauty, richness, and biodiversity of the local natural environment.
OCDSB’s Student Achievement Through Equity (SATE) Inquiry worked to build literacy skills through programming for families, including a student spelling bee and literacy sessions for more than 300 parents and caregivers.
We hope you've enjoyed this year's Classroom Chronicles. Recently, we caught up with a few schools to see what they’ve been up to since we shared their stories. Read the latest!
In case you missed it…
Report Cards
Elementary report cards were sent on Wednesday. Secondary report cards will be sent on Thursday, July 6. To access the report card, enter your child’s Ontario Education Number (OEN) in this format: XXX-XXX-XXX. The OEN can be found on a previous report card. If you need assistance, please contact your school. For additional information, visit our website.
Skilled Trades and Technology Diploma Programs: Expressions of Interest Open Expressions of interest are open at Ottawa Technical Secondary School and Sir Guy Carleton Secondary School for grade 8-12 students interested in a Skilled Trades and Technology program. Visit the school websites to learn how to apply.
Stress Lessons: From Stressed Out to Chilled Out: Stress Lessons are back this summer, offering students going into grades 7, 8, or 9 the opportunity to learn more about managing stress and fostering an increased sense of well-being. Visit our website to learn more and register by June 30th.
Wishing you all a happy Canada Day and amazing summer. Hope you can find the time to rest, relax and recharge.
Thank you,
Michele Giroux
Director of Education