April 28, 2023 - Mental Health Week, Education Week - Education for a Brighter Future, and more
Hello Students,
At Glebe Collegiate Institute, young historians have been participating in Project True North, shedding light on individuals whose voices, stories, and contributions have been missing from common narratives about Canadian history - see how these students are uncovering untold stories from WWI.
Mental Health Week
Mental Health Week is May 1-7, 2023. This year’s theme, “My Story”, recognizes the unique stories and experiences each of us brings to the world. To help support learning and reflection for our students, staff and families this week, the OCDSB’s Mental Health Team has prepared a few daily activities, resources, tip sheets, and more. Students will also receive an email at the start of the week with ideas from the Youth Action Committee on Mental Health.
Education Week - Education for a Brighter Future
Next week is Education Week, an opportunity to recognize the importance of public education in Ontario and to celebrate the learning and achievements of our students, staff members, and school communities. This year’s theme, Education for a Brighter Future, celebrates how current and future educational opportunities are helping to create a brighter future not just for students, but for all.
National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and Two-Spirit People
All Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people have the right to be safe. On May 5, 2023, we recognize and honour the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2S) and invite our communities to join together in learning, remembering, and taking action. Learn more.
Earth Day
The OCDSB celebrated Earth Day last week, with students and staff sharing the many ways they work together to take care of the planet. From award-winning sustainability inventions to recycling programs, read about eco-friendly initiatives happening in our schools.
Upcoming Events
- Saturday, May 13: Open Trails. Bill Mason Outdoor Education Centre is having its annual Open Trails day from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This is the only day of the year when this 77-acre classroom is open to the public! Learn more.
- Tuesday, May 16: Women in Trades: Career Discovery Expo. In partnership with Build a Dream, OCDSB invites young women in grades 9-12 to join us from 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. for this in-person event at the EY Centre and explore the exciting career opportunities available in the trades sector. Please contact your school to register for this event.
- Thursday, May 25, 4:30 - 8:00 p.m: Emily Carr Middle School 50th Anniversary: Students, families, and alumni are invited to this celebration. Tickets are available online for $5; the deadline to register is May 1. Learn more.
Important Dates in the Week Ahead
- Jewish Heritage Month. May is Jewish Heritage Month in Ontario, a time to remember, celebrate, and learn more about Jewish Canadians and the impact they have in our communities.
- Asian Heritage Month and South Asian Heritage Month. May is Asian Heritage Month and South Asian Heritage Month in Canada, an opportunity to acknowledge the long and rich history of Asian and South Asian Canadians and the positive impacts they have within our communities. In addition, May 5 is South Asian Arrival Day.
- Dutch Heritage Month. May is Dutch Heritage Month, celebrating the Dutch Canadian community and the many contributions they have made in Ontario.
- Speech and Hearing Month. Speech and Hearing Month is an opportunity to raise awareness about communication health, provide resources, and highlight the importance of early detection and intervention in communication disorders.
- May 1: National Principals Day.This is an opportunity to celebrate our amazing Principals and Vice Principals at the OCDSB and thank them for their kindness, leadership, and support.
- May 5: Vesak. Vesak is the most important day of the year for Buddhists. It commemorates the birth, awakening, and passing away of the historical Buddha.
Thank you,
Michele Giroux
Director of Education