November 25, 2022 - December 6: Secondary Gifted Program Information Session, December 8: All About High School Virtual Information Session, and more.
Dear Families,
This was a challenging week for the OCDSB community. The Board of Trustees considered whether to mandate masking for students and staff. The meetings generated a lot of discussion, both inside and outside of the Boardroom. After much debate, the motion did not pass. This means that wearing a mask in OCDSB schools and buildings is not mandatory, but it continues to be strongly encouraged.
There are several respiratory viruses circulating in our community and our health care system is under extreme pressure. Ottawa Public Health recommends masking in all indoor public settings as part of a series of strategies to prevent the spread of illness in our community. Additional measures include, monitoring for symptoms, staying home from school or work if sick, handwashing, and getting the COVID-19 vaccine and flu shot to protect yourself and others. These strategies are highlighted in a recent letter to families from Dr. Kieran Moore (CMOH) and in this week’s update from Ottawa Public Health.
Public discourse and the debate of ideas is important. Critical thinking is important. Criticism, attacks, and abuse of others for their beliefs or ideas is not okay. As a community, we need to learn from and move past the difficult experiences of this week. We all deeply care about the health, wellness and education of students. They would be well-served by our commitment to listen, learn and engage with one another in a respectful manner, supporting the dignity of every person.
December 6: Secondary Gifted Program Information Session
Parents and guardians are welcome to join us December 6 at 6:00 p.m. for an information session about the OCDSB’s Secondary Gifted Program. Attendees will learn about the program and application process, and will have the opportunity to ask questions. While those with a student in grade 8 might find the session most helpful, all parents and caregivers are invited to attend. Save this link to join the session on Google Meet.
December 8: All About High School Virtual Information Session
Inviting all Grade 8-11 students and their families for the All About High School Virtual Information Session on Thursday, December 8, 2022, 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. This virtual conference, organized by OCDSB’s Innovation and Adolescent Learning team, will provide details about the transition from Grade 8 to high school. Learn more
Supporting School Councils
Are you a School Council member or interested in getting involved? Visit the OCDSB's Supporting School Councils webpage and subscribe to the newsletter to receive updates, tips, and resources – including our new training video series for councils. If you have questions about how to get involved in your School Council, please contact your principal.
School News
The new Pirurviapik Childcare Centre has provided a space for Inuit infants, toddlers, and preschoolers to grow and learn through culturally enhanced programming. The Centre, which opened in September, is located at the OCDSB’s Rideau Hub and operated by the Inuuqatigiit Centre for Inuit Children, Youth and Families. Take a look inside the Centre.
Last month, eight current and former OCDSB students were honoured at the 25th Annual RBC Spirit of the Capital Youth Awards for their achievements in arts and culture, academic perseverance, service and caring, and more. Read about the recipients.
Dates to Remember
December 1: Nunatsiavut Day
Nunatsiavut Day acknowledges the effective date of the Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement, which came into effect in 2005. This agreement recognized Inuit ownership of 15,800 square kilometres of land and the creation of the 9,600 square kilometre Torngat Mountains National Park Reserve. Nunatsiavut is the first of the Inuit regions in Canada to achieve self-government, and means "Our Beautiful Land" in Inuktitut.
Reminders
November 30: Canterbury Arts Open House, 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
December 1: Ontario Universities’ Virtual Information Session, 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
December 3: Brick and Masonry Information Session - Ottawa Technical Secondary School, 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Looking for More Information on Upcoming Events or Dates?
Remember to consult the OCDSB’s elementary and/or secondary calendars for PA Days, holidays, exam dates, and more. Board Meetings, committee meetings, and dates of significance can be found on the OCDSB’s board calendar. In addition, religious and/or cultural dates can be found in our MultiFaith calendar. A reminder that our email communications are conducted on a weekly basis. While we typically share event information well in advance for planning purposes, important dates mentioned are not an exhaustive list for the month ahead.
Thank you,
Camille Williams-Taylor
Director of Education