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School Council News

School Council News

Thank You for Your Contributions in 2023-2024
06/06/2024
As the end of the school year approaches, we want to thank all School Councils for their dedication to supporting OCDSB students, families, and communities.
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Celebrating the OCDSB Community Award Winners
06/06/2024
On May 28th, 2024, the winners of the 2023-2024 Community Recognition Awards were announced and celebrated
Read More about Celebrating the OCDSB Community Award Winners
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School Council Year-End Annual Report
06/06/2024
It’s time to start drafting your year-end report! Board Policy P.014.SCO School Councils requires School Councils to prepare an annual report on the School Council activities, including fundraising.
Read More about School Council Year-End Annual Report
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Year-End Financial Reporting
06/06/2024
Your council may want to start drafting their financial report that is required to be completed via the School Council Year-End Financial Reporting Google Form by September 20, 2024.
Read More about Year-End Financial Reporting
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School Council Records and End of School Year Tasks
06/06/2024
Learn about managing records that contain financial information, School Council meeting minutes, and records containing personal or sensitive information.
Read More about School Council Records and End of School Year Tasks
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2024-2025 Community Use of Schools Facility Requests
06/06/2024
The online booking system, eBASE, is now open for School Councils to submit permit requests for school activities for the 2024-2025 school year. Permit requests must be submitted by July 5, 2024
Read More about 2024-2025 Community Use of Schools Facility Requests
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Fresh From the Farm
06/06/2024
Fresh from the Farm allows schools to support their communities and Ontario farmers by selling Ontario vegetables and apples.
Read More about Fresh From the Farm
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Play Structures and Outdoor Spaces: What School Councils Need to Know
04/29/2024
The OCDSB’s Facilities department works collaboratively with school Principals, staff, Chief Custodians and School Councils to offer a wide range of outdoor features to schools. Learn about the process, funding, and how to get started.
Read More about Play Structures and Outdoor Spaces: What School Councils Need to Know
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Conducting a Parent Survey
04/29/2024
An important part of building engagement is listening to families in your school community and understanding their needs and interests. Consider sending out a survey to identify what parents in your school community need and want.
Read More about Conducting a Parent Survey
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School Council Spotlight: Elgin Street Public School Peace, Love, and Friendship International Gala
04/29/2024
Elgin Street Public School held its first ever Peace, Love, and Friendship International Gala led by the school’s Parent Council Team, educators, students, and community members.
Read More about School Council Spotlight: Elgin Street Public School Peace, Love, and Friendship International Gala
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Engage OCDSB: Share Your Feedback
04/29/2024
Engage OCDSB, our new online consultation platform, gives you the opportunity to provide feedback on initiatives you care about. We are currently seeking feedback about our elementary programs, budget, and several policies.
Read More about Engage OCDSB: Share Your Feedback
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Community Recognition Awards: Nominate a Volunteer Today!
03/25/2024
Do you know an outstanding volunteer whose hard work and dedication has had a positive impact on your school, and/or on the OCDSB community as a whole? Nominate them for the OCDSB Community Recognition Awards!
Read More about Community Recognition Awards: Nominate a Volunteer Today!
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City of Ottawa Community Environmental Projects Grant Program
03/25/2024
The City of Ottawa is now accepting applications for the 2024 Community Environmental Projects Grant Program (CEPGP). The application deadline is April 5, 2024 at 4:00 p.m.
Read More about City of Ottawa Community Environmental Projects Grant Program
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Tips for School Councils: Be Persistent
03/25/2024
The Ministry of Education has created a list of helpful tips for School Councils on involving parents in the school.
Read More about Tips for School Councils: Be Persistent
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Engage OCDSB
03/25/2024
Engage OCDSB gives you the opportunity to provide feedback on initiatives you care about.
Read More about Engage OCDSB
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2024 Valuing Voices: Identity Matters Student Survey
03/25/2024
In April, the OCDSB will be launching our 2024 Valuing Voices: Identity Matters Student Survey and we need the help of school councils.
Read More about 2024 Valuing Voices: Identity Matters Student Survey
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PRO Grant Thematic Resources
02/06/2024
We have developed a list of resources to help School Councils learn more about the PRO Grant thematic areas.
Read More about PRO Grant Thematic Resources
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$500 Parent Involvement (PINV) Funding
02/06/2024
Each year, schools and School Councils receive $500.00 in Parent Involvement (PINV) funds, allocated to be spent at their discretion on activities that foster and enhance parent involvement and communication within the school community.
Read More about $500 Parent Involvement (PINV) Funding
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An Update on PRO Grants
02/06/2024
The Parent Reaching Out (PRO) Grants application and distribution is complete. 87% of eligible School Councils within the OCDSB have received funding, each receiving up to $750.
Read More about An Update on PRO Grants
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School Council Funds Management
02/06/2024
Looking to learn more about the management of School Council funds? Our website provides resources on practices that allow funds to be managed in a consistent, transparent, and appropriate manner.
Read More about School Council Funds Management
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Tips for School Councils: Get the Word Out
02/06/2024
The Ministry of Education has created a list of helpful tips for School Councils on involving parents in the school.
Read More about Tips for School Councils: Get the Word Out
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Spread the Word: EarlyON Child and Family Centres
02/06/2024
EarlyON Child and Family Centres are welcoming and supportive places where Ontario children and their parents, grandparents, and caregivers can learn, grow, and connect, together.
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Toonie Tuesday is February 27, 2024: Give A Little, Help A Lot!
02/06/2024
On February 27th, we all come together to support students in need within the OCDSB. School Councils can help support this important initiative by spreading the word and hosting fundraising activities. Let your toonie be the stepping stone to student success.
Read More about Toonie Tuesday is February 27, 2024: Give A Little, Help A Lot!
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Tips for School Councils: School Events
02/06/2024
The Ministry of Education has created a list of helpful tips for School Councils on involving parents in the school.
Read More about Tips for School Councils: School Events
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2023 School Council Speaker List for PRO Grant Events
12/08/2023
This Speakers List is designed to help you maximize your Parents Reaching Out (PRO) Grant event and foster meaningful change to ensure that every family feels welcomed, informed, and actively engaged in their child’s education.
Read More about 2023 School Council Speaker List for PRO Grant Events
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School Council Insurance
12/08/2023
The OCDSB provides school council liability insurance. This policy provides coverage for the school council executive members and all volunteers acting on behalf of the school council that may face lawsuits arising out of their activities for the school council.
Read More about School Council Insurance
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A Message from the Education Foundation of Ottawa
12/08/2023
School Councils can allocate a percentage of their funds to support The Education Foundation of Ottawa. By doing so, they contribute to fostering community and school partnerships, increasing student and community engagement, and positively impacting student achievement.
Read More about A Message from the Education Foundation of Ottawa
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Indigo Love of Reading Literacy Fund Grant
12/08/2023
This grant is currently open for applications.
Read More about Indigo Love of Reading Literacy Fund Grant
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Tips for School Councils: Break down barriers to participation
12/08/2023
The Ministry of Education has created a list of helpful tips for School Councils on involving parents in the school.
Read More about Tips for School Councils: Break down barriers to participation
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Promote Your School’s Parent Information Night
12/08/2023
This winter, OCDSB schools are hosting in-person kindergarten and high school information nights to help families prepare, learn how to register, and more. Help spread the word to families in your community!
Read More about Promote Your School’s Parent Information Night
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Building Connections through Communication
12/08/2023
Our website provides many resources to support School Council communications, including training videos for School Council websites and social media use.
Read More about Building Connections through Communication
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OCDSB is Seeking Indigenous Community Members to Serve on the Special Education Advisory Council
11/21/2023
Calling all Indigenous community members in Ottawa! The Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) at the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) is seeking dedicated individuals to join our committee.
Read More about OCDSB is Seeking Indigenous Community Members to Serve on the Special Education Advisory Council
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Parents Reaching Out (PRO) Grant Applications Are Open
11/17/2023
School Councils may apply for a grant of up to $750 to support innovative projects and activities to engage parents, caregivers, and guardians while enhancing their capabilities in various areas.
Read More about Parents Reaching Out (PRO) Grant Applications Are Open
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School Council Spotlight: Pleasant Park Public School Outdoor Classroom
11/17/2023
Pleasant Park Public School is the proud recipient of a brand new Outdoor Classroom complete with wooden log seating, chalkboard and a small stage. Their School Council partnered with Desjardins Ontario Credit Union and the OCDSB to launch the learning area.
Read More about School Council Spotlight: Pleasant Park Public School Outdoor Classroom
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Tips for School Councils: Create an Inclusive Welcome
11/17/2023
The Ministry of Education has created a list of helpful tips for School Councils on involving parents in the school.
Read More about Tips for School Councils: Create an Inclusive Welcome
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Creating Equitable and Inclusive Programming
11/17/2023
School Council programming should create welcoming and inclusive spaces for all members of the school community.
Read More about Creating Equitable and Inclusive Programming
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TD Friends of the Environment Foundation Grant
11/17/2023
This grant is currently open for applications.
Read More about TD Friends of the Environment Foundation Grant
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OCDSB is Seeking Indigenous Community Members to Serve on the Indigenous Education Council (IEC)
11/17/2023
Members of Indigenous communities, now is your chance to share your voice and support Indigenous students within the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB).
Read More about OCDSB is Seeking Indigenous Community Members to Serve on the Indigenous Education Council (IEC)
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OCDSB to host Family Conference on November 4, 2023
10/16/2023
Join us on Saturday, November 4, 2023, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. for the OCDSB Family Conference at Brookfield High School. This year’s theme is Educate, Engage, Empower - Enhancing Learning Together.
Read More about OCDSB to host Family Conference on November 4, 2023
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Engaging Families at Parent/Guardian–Teacher Interviews
10/16/2023
Parent/guardian–teacher interviews are coming up this fall, and your School Council might consider setting up an information table at your school’s interview night.
Read More about Engaging Families at Parent/Guardian–Teacher Interviews
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Tips for School Councils: Parent Survey and Action Plan
10/16/2023
The Ministry of Education has created a list of helpful tips for School Councils on involving parents in the school.
Read More about Tips for School Councils: Parent Survey and Action Plan
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School Council Training Videos
10/16/2023
We have a collection of short videos available on-demand that provide training on key School Council operations and best practices.
Read More about School Council Training Videos
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Video Licensing for Movie Nights
10/16/2023
The OCDSB has video licensing agreements with Criterion Pictures and Audio Cine Films Inc. (ACF), which allow Schools Councils to show copyright protected movies.
Read More about Video Licensing for Movie Nights
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School Council Google Accounts and Email Addresses
10/16/2023
Every School Council has an OCDSB email address ([email protected]). School Council chairs shall use these OCDSB accounts during their one-year term.
Read More about School Council Google Accounts and Email Addresses
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Approved List of Food and Dairy Product Providers for Elementary Schools
10/16/2023
The OCDSB is committed to making its schools a healthier place in order for students to reach their full potential. Learn about the Ministry’s School Food and Beverages Policy (PPM 150) and see the approved lists of food and dairy providers for 2023-2024.
Read More about Approved List of Food and Dairy Product Providers for Elementary Schools
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Proposed Changes to Policies on Extended Day and Child Care Programs at the OCDSB
09/28/2023
The OCDSB is currently looking to amalgamate the two standing policies, P.035.SCO, Extended Day Programs and P.059.SCO, Child Care Programs in Schools, into one.
Read More about Proposed Changes to Policies on Extended Day and Child Care Programs at the OCDSB
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Welcome to the New School Year!
09/22/2023
We were pleased to welcome students back to school, and we look forward to collaborating with our dedicated community of School Councils this year. Find out how to connect with us.
Read More about Welcome to the New School Year!
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2023-2024 School Council Elections
09/22/2023
The election of School Council members is held in the first 30 days of the school year. Any parent can be elected to the School Council.
Read More about 2023-2024 School Council Elections
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Our School Council Newsletter Format is Changing
09/22/2023
We will be changing how we share news and updates with School Councils. Beginning later this fall, the Supporting School Councils Newsletter will be sent directly to Chairs at their OCDSB School Council email address. All other readers can access updates on our website.
Read More about Our School Council Newsletter Format is Changing
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Introducing Samah Suliman, FACE Coordinator
09/22/2023
Read a message from Samah Suliman, Family and Community Engagement Coordinator.
Read More about Introducing Samah Suliman, FACE Coordinator
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School Council Meetings
09/22/2023
Typically, School Councils meet in the evening once a month during the school year. The first meeting must be held within 35 days of the first day of the school year after your new School Council is elected.
Read More about School Council Meetings
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Parent Involvement Committee (PIC) Membership Applications
09/22/2023
Are you an OCDSB parent or guardian interested in education, student achievement, and well-being? The OCDSB is seeking two parent members and two community representatives to serve on the Parent Involvement Committee (PIC) for a one or two year term, effective November 30, 2023.
Read More about Parent Involvement Committee (PIC) Membership Applications
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School Council Records and End of School Year Tasks
06/19/2023
Learn about managing records that contain financial information, School Council meeting minutes, and records containing personal or sensitive information.
Read More about School Council Records and End of School Year Tasks
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Fresh from the Farm: Healthy Fundraising for Ontario Schools
06/19/2023
Enrolment for Fresh from the Farm is now open, allowing schools to support their communities and Ontario farmers by selling Ontario vegetables and apples. The deadline to enrol is September 22.
Read More about Fresh from the Farm: Healthy Fundraising for Ontario Schools
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School Council Year-End Annual Report
05/15/2023
It’s time to start drafting your year-end report! Board Policy P.014.SCO School Councils requires School Councils to prepare an annual report on the School Council activities, including fundraising.
Read More about School Council Year-End Annual Report
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Year-End Financial Reporting
05/15/2023
Your council may want to start drafting their financial report that is required to be completed via the School Council Year-End Financial Reporting Google Form by September 15, 2023.
Read More about Year-End Financial Reporting
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Play Structures and Outdoor Spaces: What School Councils Need to Know
04/03/2023
The OCDSB’s Facilities department works collaboratively with school Principals, staff, Chief Custodians and School Councils to offer a wide range of outdoor features to schools. Learn about the process, funding, and how to get started.
Read More about Play Structures and Outdoor Spaces: What School Councils Need to Know
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School Council Spotlight: Half Moon Bay Dance-a-Thon
04/03/2023
Half Moon Bay Public School held a successful Dance-a-Thon in February, made possible by the tireless efforts of School Council members, school staff, grade 6 students, and parent volunteers.
Read More about School Council Spotlight: Half Moon Bay Dance-a-Thon
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Babysitting During School Council Meetings
01/25/2023
If a School Council wishes to offer babysitting services to members of the council during School Council meetings, the following recommendations should be considered.
Read More about Babysitting During School Council Meetings
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School Council Spotlight: Bayview Polar Bear Fair
01/25/2023
Bayview Public School celebrated the return of their winter fair with a new name and lots of fun. The Polar Bear Fair was an opportunity for the school community to freely visit the school, see friends, and redeem their “Fair Passports” for fun activities.
Read More about School Council Spotlight: Bayview Polar Bear Fair
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School Council Spotlight: Rockcliffe Park Book Fair
11/24/2022
Rockcliffe Park Public School celebrated the successful in-person return of its annual Book Fair, a fundraiser run by a committee of parent volunteers and supported by community volunteers, students, and staff.
Read More about School Council Spotlight: Rockcliffe Park Book Fair
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