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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January 27th is Holocaust Remembrance Day.
It is a day to reflect on one of the darkest chapters in human history. It is also a reminder that we must continue to work together to end antisemitism, bigotry and hatred.
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February is Black History month. This provides a special time for focused reflection on the lived experiences of Black people past and present.
Schools will focus on the contributions and triumphs of people of African descent globally and locally.
While this month provides an opportunity to highlight these topics, it’s important the realities of people of African descent continue to be reflected in school experiences all year long.
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I would like to conclude my remarks by noting that Thursday, January 28th is Bell Let’s Talk Day.
This serves as an opportunity to discuss mental health and reduce the stigma some face in reaching out for support.
We know this continues to be a challenging time for families. Remember, there are many resources available through our schools and community to help.
Briefing from the Director
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I would like to highlight some key registration deadlines in February.
Kindergarten registration - schools across the District continue to host virtual Kindergarten Parent Information nights and Welcome to High School sessions. If you were unable to attend, recordings of these sessions are available on our website.
The registration period for Middle French Immersion takes place from February 8th to 16th. If a child has completed the grade 3 English/Core French Program, parents can choose to enter the Middle French Immersion Program.
The OCDSB Virtual Night School program is now open for registration until February 11th. Classes start on February 18th.
Grade 9 Course Selection - Secondary school course selection for the next school year is held in February. Schools will soon be communicating with parents regarding the specific timelines and process at the school.
For parents of grade 8 students, this is a very important opportunity to set your child up for success in high school. This year, we are working on some new communication for parents to help explain their role in the course selection process, the difference between Academic, Applied, Open, and Locally Developed, and ensure that parents understand that all course streams build upon the learning in Grade 8.
Cross boundary transfers - Parents who wish to have their child attend a different school must complete a student transfer application. The application period for elementary and secondary student transfers will take place from February 1st until the 16th.
For information on transfer requests, Middle French Immersion and our virtual night school, please visit our website.
COVID-19 Update
OCDSB staff presented an update to trustees on COVID-19.
Student Trustee Bi-Annual Report
Student trustees presented their report reflecting on the first half of the school year.
In-camera Motions
Trustees approved in-camera motions with respect to two financial matters and, a human resources matter that the tentative settlement of local matters between the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board and the Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation - Educational Support Professionals, which will form a renewal collective agreement dated 1 September 2019 to 31 August 2022, be ratified.
Public Motions
Trustees approved the following:
- Confirmation of Board Minutes:
- Board, 15 December 2020
- Special Board Meeting, 12 January 2021
- Receipt of Committee of the Whole Minutes, 12 January 2021
- The ME Project
- Facilities Renewal Program and School Condition Improvement Plan 2020-2021
- Motion - Transgender and Gender Diverse Student Support Coordinator
- Motion - Support for Families Facing Significant Internet Expenses
Meeting ended at 10:45pm