Recently, several Toronto District School Board (TDSB) schools and sites have received questions about student and staff safety amid online statements circulating on social media about events threatened to occur tomorrow - Friday, October 13. Toronto Police, which have issued a news release on the matter, state there are currently no credible threats. Police Chief Myron Demkiw reiterated these reassurances during a news conference this morning.
In addition, Toronto Police have shared that following the terror attacks in Israel, they immediately increased patrols in Jewish communities and have expanded that increased visibility to include cultural centres, synagogues, mosques, schools and other places of worship across the city.
The safety and security of our students and staff is our top priority and we will remain in close contact with Toronto Police over the coming days and weeks. Schools will implement regular safety protocols as they do each day. Should any additional measures be required, we will share that with you as soon as possible.
We know this week has been extremely challenging for many in the TDSB community and we will continue to support students and staff. As always, mental health supports for students can be arranged through the Professional Support Services department or by parents/guardians/caregivers through a qualified medical or mental health practitioner. Staff can access Mental Health and Well-Being Resources and/or can contact the TDSB’s Employee and Family Assistance Program should they require additional support. Additional mental health resources can also be found in the system letter shared yesterday.
Colleen Russell-Rawlins
Director of Education