The Toronto District School Board – Community Services Unit is beginning to reopen its programs’ doors to the public. Many are open on an appointment-only basis and several programs will introduce a blended format of virtual and in-class learning. All program sites are strictly following and enforcing protocols and processes to ensure a safe delivery of our community programs.

Below are more details for each program reopening.

• All seven locations of our Next-Steps Employment Centres across the Greater Toronto Area are now open to the public on an appointment-only basis.
• Newcomer Services in Malvern is open for in-person service, while workshops remain available online for the time being.
• Scarborough Centre for Employment Accessibility is open for in-person services. Workshops will continue to be delivered online.
• The Studio 500 Hairstyling Program will be offered in a blended format starting in September 2021.
• The On The Road Construction Program is being delivered in person.
• The On The Line Culinary Program will be offered in a blended format of in-person and virtual learning starting in September 2021.
• Language Instructions for Newcomers to Canada (LINC), Essential Skills Upgrading (ESU) and Enhanced Language Training classes will be offered virtually starting in September 2021. Classes are planned to transition to in-person learning starting in October 2021.

These are the COVID-19 protocols set in place at every program site to ensure a safe reopening:

• All Toronto District School Board policies and protocols for health and safety will be followed.
• All Community Services staff will conduct self-assessments for COVID-19 signs and symptoms daily. Staff who show any signs or symptoms will stay home.
• All staff are required to wear a medical mask, minimum Level 1 government standard, at all times while indoors, as well as a face shield and other personal protective equipment as appropriate.
• All staff, visitors, and program participants on-site will conduct a self-assesment before entering, follow physical distancing requirements, including following all directional arrows, waiting points, and signage.
• HEPA air ventilation units in every program site.
• Deep cleaning prior to reopening and receive thorough cleaning regularly thereafter.
• Hand sanitizers available at every program site.
• Programs are offering virtual and phone services where possible.

As provincial and federal governments and the Toronto District School Board develop guidelines and policies for a safe reopening, the Community Services unit will adjust and shift its operations to abide by Board and government policies and protocols.

For more information on any one of our programs, please visit tdsb.on.ca/communityservices and navigate to each program page and contact our teams.