January 27, 2023 - Black History Month at the OCDSB, Weekly Update from Ottawa Public Health, and more.
Hello Students,
Today is International Holocaust Remembrance Day, which honours and remembers the over six million Jews murdered and countless other victims of the Holocaust. At the OCDSB, it is our obligation to educate, prevent, challenge and address antisemitism in all its forms. Educating students about the Holocaust, equipping staff members with helpful resources and lessons, and sharing additional information with families is an important part of this responsibility. On Tuesday, January 31, 2023 the Board of Trustees will consider a recommendation from the Committee of the Whole to create a new position to support Jewish students and staff, and to combat antisemitism and hate.
On Sunday, we will recognize the National Day of Remembrance of the Quebec City Mosque Attack and Action Against Islamophobia. This week many have worn a green square on their clothing in memory of the victims and in solidarity with Muslim communities across Canada, and students and staff have engaged in learning about the importance of standing together against hate and discrimination.
Black History Month at the OCDSB
February is Black History Month in Canada, a time to celebrate Black culture and history and applaud the many achievements and significant contributions of Black Canadians. While the realities of people of African descent must be reflected in school experiences all year long, the month of February provides a special time for focused reflection on the lived experiences of Black people, past and present. Learn more about Black History Month 2023 at the OCDSB.
Weekly Update from Ottawa Public Health
This week Ottawa Public Health posted another update on the respiratory illness situation in Ottawa, sharing that while overall indicators are declining, levels of COVID-19 remain high in our community. They continue to emphasize that wearing a high-quality and well-fitted mask, staying home when sick, and getting vaccinated (flu and COVID-19) will help us keep ourselves and one another safe.
Upcoming Events
February 2: Virtual Strategic Plan Consultation
As we work together on our next strategic plan, we want to hear about your priorities for OCDSB’s future. Our next Large Group Meeting will take place via Zoom on Thursday, February 2nd from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Multilingual support will be available in Arabic, Cantonese, English, Korean, Mandarin and Somali. Register Now, and visit our website for more ways to share your opinion.
February 11: Black History: A Day of Celebration
Join us as we celebrate Black Excellence. The in-person event will take place on February 11, 2023, 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., at the Longfields-Davidson Heights Secondary School. We will have a keynote address by Meghan Stewart, founder of Mindfulness Meghan, artistic performances by OCDSB students and staff, and community members. You will also have an opportunity to interact with, and learn more about the work of Black Excellence Student Clubs. Register Now. Learn more on our website.
School News
Laundry, philanthropy, and experiential learning – in a recent collaboration between the OCDSB and community partners, students from Merivale High School and Gloucester High School combined these elements to create artwork for a great cause. Read the story.
In case you missed it…
Nominations for the 2023 OTIP Teaching Awards: Nominations close March 31, 2023. Additional details are available at www.teachingawards.ca.
Thank you,
Michele Giroux
Director of Education