Boardroom Newsbrief - December 15, 2020

The Newsbrief is meant to provide the highlights of the decisions made at the Board meeting for the benefit of our community. The notes do not serve as the official record of the meeting. Please refer to Board or Committee minutes.

For full agenda package prepared ahead of this meeting, visit this link.


Briefing from the Chair of the Board

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I would like to start by wishing happy holidays to everyone in our community. Things might be a little different this year, but we hope you all can enjoy the break.

It is important to note that holidays can be a stressful time for many. These feelings may be heightened this year as we all face limits on seeing loved ones along with other COVID-related challenges.

Over the holiday period, it is important to focus on what is possible to support your mental health and that of your family. And remember, it’s ok to not be ok.

There are resources available to you if you need help. This week, the OCDSB has been sharing on social media information on managing stress and anxiety as well as contact information for local crisis lines and community resources.



Last week, OCDSB Superintendent of Instruction Prince Duah participated in a discussion on Black men in educational leadership, hosted by the Administrators’ Black Caucus of Ontario.

It was an excellent conversation on the experiences of presenters and strategies to disrupt Anti-Black racism. We have shared a link on our website.

Briefing from the Director

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It will take a community to help us recover from the effects of this pandemic.

For many years, local businesses have generously supported school events across our district through donations and volunteer hours.

For those who are able to do so, we encourage families to support local businesses at this time. This could include buying a gift card to your favourite local store or ordering a take out dinner for your family.

Also, if you have the means, please consider supporting charities making a big difference right now. They are a vital part of our community and the pandemic has forced many charities to suspend fundraising activities this year. A donation to a charity as a gift provides a wonderful opportunity to discuss philanthropy with your child and how we can all spread some kindness this holiday season.


The winter break will take place between December 21st and January 1st. Schools will be closed at this time. The first day back at school is January 4th. Students are asked to bring any personal items home before the break.

I hope everyone in our community - students, parents and staff - has an opportunity to rest and relax during this time. I know our staff has worked incredibly hard this year and I wish you all happy holidays.

We look forward to welcoming students and staff back to school in a new year.

COVID-19 Update

OCDSB staff presented an update to trustees on COVID-19.

In-camera Motions

Trustees approved in-camera motions with respect to a financial matter, a personnel matter and a human resources matter.

Public Motions

Trustees approved the following:

  • Confirmation of Board Minutes:
    • Board, 24 November 2020
    • Board Organizational Meeting, 1 December 2020
  • Receipt of Committee of the Whole Minutes, 10 November 2020
    • Approval of a Study, Consultation Plan and Timeline for the New Half Moon Bay Elementary School
    • Approval of a Consultation Plan for a Human Rights Policy
    • Review of the High Performance Athletic Program
  • Approval of the Board Work Plan and Areas of Focus for 2020-2021

Meeting ended at 1030pm

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