October 4, 2023
Welcome to TDSB Connects, an update on news and events from across the Toronto District School Board (TDSB).
Celebrating Good News - Read about some of the recent events, initiatives and great things happening across the Toronto District School Board, including:
Islamic Heritage Month at the TDSB – The TDSB proudly recognizes Islamic Heritage Month during October. This year’s theme is Salaam: Joy, Excellence, BelonTDSB Grad Wins National Your Voice ging. Several educational opportunities are being organized for all TDSB students to further learn about Islamic traditions and customs. To learn more, visit the Islamic Heritage Month webpage.
Somali Heritage Month at the TDSB – The TDSB proudly recognizes Somali Heritage Month during October. This year the committee is continuing to expand on the selected theme Educate. Elevate. Excel. Several educational opportunities are being organized for all TDSB students to further learn about Somali traditions and customs. To learn more, visit the Somali Heritage Month webpage.
TDSB Recognizes National Day of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls - October 4 is the National Day of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Each year, the Native Women’s Association of Canada (NWAC) holds a Sisters in Spirit Vigil to honour Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Learn more about the National Day of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls on our website.
Register Now! Parents and Caregivers as Partners Conference - Join us for the Parents and Caregivers as Partners Conference on October 21 and 22, 2023. This year’s conference is focussed on Joy in the Journey of Learning and will be a weekend full of learning and connection. Attendees can participate virtually and also join in-person presentations. Visit www.parentsaspartners.ca for more information and to register
Save the Date: Preparing for High School Information Sessions - To support students and families as they navigate TDSB programs, we will be hosting a series of Preparing for High School Information Sessions (see below). More information and the registration link will be posted on the TDSB Guidance website at www.tdsb.on.ca/Guidance soon!
- Grade 8 to 9 Transitions Information Session: November 1, 2023 at 7 p.m.
- Student Interest Programs Information Session: November 2, 2023 at 7 p.m.
- Virtual Secondary Alternative Schools Fair: January 10, 2023 at 7 p.m.
Early French Immersion (Junior Kindergarten Entry) Application Deadline - For families interested in the TDSB's system-wide French Immersion Program, we offer an online process to apply for Early French Immersion (begins in JK). To apply to the Early French Immersion Program for September 2024, applications must be completed online between November 6 and December 1, 2023. Families with an older sibling currently in an Early French Immersion program are still required to complete an online application for the new student. Visit the Early French Immersion and Application Process web pages to learn more.
Last Chance! Complete a Multi-Year Strategic Plan (MYSP) Renewal SurveyPlease complete theMYSP online surveyand share your thoughts about what the TDSB’s priorities should be for 2023-2027. Please complete a survey before October 31! Learn more atwww.tdsb.on.ca/MYSPrenewal.
October is K-12 Cyber Awareness Month - As part of the 2023-24 Cyber Protection Strategy initiative, the Ministry of Education is committed to developing and sharing flexible resources to support a collaborative approach between the ministry and school boards– to improve cyber awareness in boards in the areas of cyber security, protection of privacy and online safety. Resources to support the annual K-12 Cyber Awareness Month (K-12 CAM) in October 2023 have been developed in partnership with school boards, the Educational Computing Network of Ontario (ECNO), the government’s Cyber Security Division, and various ministry stakeholders. Learn more and access the resources here.
TDSB Employment Opportunity Fair - Join us virtually on Saturday, October 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to learn more about the hiring process and meet with recruitment staff to discuss the exciting career opportunities at Canada’s largest and most diverse school board.Visit the Employment Opportunity Fair webpage for more details.
Professional Activity (PA) Days - During the school year, school staff participate in a number of Professional Activity (PA) Days. Beginning in 2023-24, boards of education are now required to publicly share detailed information at least 14 days in advance, as outlined in Policy and Program Memorandum (PPM) 151. Visit the PA Day web page to learn more.
Fundraising Policy Consultation - The Fundraising Policy (P021) is currently being reviewed. The Policy supports the TDSB’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and financial viability and promotes student learning opportunities when planning and implementing fundraising activities. Please share your thoughts and recommendations on the draft Policy through the online survey or at businessdevelopment@tdsb.on.ca before October 10, 2023.
Business Development at TDSB - Business Development engages with community members and businesses to review and support the distribution of materials, donations, employee discounts, fundraising, grants and sponsorship opportunities with the goal of enhancing the learning experiences of students. To learn more, please visit www.tdsb.on.ca/About-Us/Partnership-Opportunities/Business-Development or contact BusinessDevelopment@tdsb.on.ca or call 416-395-9694.
Closing the Digital Divide Fundraising Campaign - TDSB continues to work with local and global organizations to help close the digital divide. Help us ensure technology is accessible to all and give students access to technology so they can participate, learn and succeed.For more information, please visit: www.tdsb.on.ca/techaccessall.