Nipissing Parry Sound Student Transportation Services (NPSSTS, or the Consortium), has released a communication today about the reinstatement of more Alouette bus routes beginning on Monday. Read the communication here.

Drivers for Alouette Bus Lines voted today on the latest offer, and did not accept the offer. The suspension of school transportation service by Alouette continues.

Read a communication from Nipissing Parry Sound Student Transportation Services (NPSSTS, or the consortium) here.

Nipissing Parry Sound Student Transportation Services (NPSSTS), the transportation consortium, has provided an update on the potential service disruption of Alouette Bus Lines. Read the communication here.

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The monthly Letter to Families is intended to keep you apprised of news that affects all students and families of 17�Թ��� (NNDSB).

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EQAO Math Session for Parents/Guardians of Grade 9 Students

Join us for a free webinar about how EQAO assesses Grade 9 students’ mathematics learning. EQAO staff will discuss mathematics questions from the Grade 9 assessment of mathematics. Participants will hear how these questions help assess the skills students are learning in class. Staff will also highlight valuable insights and resources that can help parents and guardians support their child’s learning.

This session takes place Feb. 12 at 12 p.m. Register .

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The Parent Involvement Committee (PIC) holds its next meeting on Thursday, Feb. 19 from 5 to 6:30 p.m.

All parents and guardians are encouraged to attend, although only PIC members may vote. The meeting has a set agenda, which will be followed.

Here is the . If joining by phone, the Meeting ID is 266 594 468 433 89 and the Passcode is��BV3fK7s3.

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The Ontario curriculum supports financial literacy across the grades.��Financial literacy is more than just knowing about money and financial matters and having the skills to work with this knowledge. Students develop the confidence to successfully apply the necessary knowledge, concepts, and skills in a range of relevant real-life contexts and for a range of purposes.

Students also develop the ability to make informed decisions as consumers and citizens. The NNDSB Financial Literacy Guide outlines what students will learn about at school as they move through the grades and provides some ideas for at-home learning and building an understanding of Financial Literacy.

You can access the guide on our Math For Families webpage.

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In addition to staying informed via the board’s website, families can find NNDSB on and .

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

At Woodland Public School, Sir-Lynx-a-Lot visits classrooms with fun activities, kindness cubes, and calming breathing exercises to promote well-being and school spirit.

During a recent visit to our Grade 6 class, students enthusiastically researched lynx facts, created a PowerPoint, and added to our travelling gratitude chain, soon to be on display! Woodland Public is buzzing with unstoppable school spirit!

You may have received an email this afternoon, in French, appearing to be from a staff member of 17�Թ���. If the subject line contains vous a envoyé le document « Ferris Glen & Sunset Park��dossier et pièces justificatives, DO NOT CLICK THE LINK IN THE EMAIL!

The link contains an embedded virus that can infect your computer.

Delete the email.

The board will provide more information when we can.

Hawn ran coding workshops with the Grade 4/5, Grade 5/6 and Grade 6/7 classes. Students had the opportunity to engage in a hands-on, technology-based learning experience using programmable Spheros robots, while developing their mathematics, coding and problem-solving skills.

This is another example of excellence in innovation and excellence in teaching and learning, as NNDSB focuses on student achievement and well-being.

Grade 4/5 teacher Mr. Arbiter writes that the Beaver Computing Challenge is a national contest that introduces students to computational thinking and problem-solving. The challenge is designed to spark interest in computer science by presenting engaging, logic-based challenges that required creativity and analytical skills.

Several Silver Birches students achieved Distinction, placing in the top 25 per cent of all participants across Canada.

The hard work and dedication of Silver Birches students have paid off, says Mr. Arbiter, noting that students demonstrated exceptional and growing problem-solving abilities. Congratulations to these students! We celebrate your achievement and look forward to seeing continued success in future STEM opportunities, including next year’s contest.

Dear NNDSB Families, Staff, Students, and Community Members,

Today, Paul Calandra, Minister of Education, in his capacity having control and charge over the administration of the affairs of the 17�Թ��� (“NNDSB”) has directed the termination of the �����ٳ���’s contract with the general contractor for the new Parry Sound JK–12 School and Child Care Facility.

This decision followed an extensive period of review and engagement, including formal notices of default and opportunity for the contractor to resolve the outstanding concerns of NNDSB.

The notice of termination delivered earlier this morning referenced concerns with respect to:

• The absence of a reliable and regularly updated construction schedule
• The performance of work in accordance with the contract documents
• The prompt correction of defective work and deficiencies
• The registration of numerous construction liens against the project

After careful consideration, NNDSB has determined that continuing under the existing arrangement would place the project’s successful completion and timeline at risk.

As of today, NNDSB has regained full control of the project and is taking the necessary steps to ensure it is completed to the standard our community expects and deserves. This action was taken as a last resort and reflects the board’s responsibility to intervene when a major capital project is no longer on a reliable path forward.

NNDSB remains fully committed to delivering this state-of-the-art school safely and on target for opening in September 2026. We will secure a new general contractor and maintain close oversight of the project to support a smooth transition and minimize disruption.

Our focus is firmly on students and families, and on ensuring public resources are managed responsibly and in the best interests of the community.

Next Steps:

• Current site safety protocols remain in place under NNDSB control.
• Updates will follow as we transition to a new construction team.

Thank you for your patience and continued support. Our priority remains delivering a safe, modern learning environment where Parry Sound students can learn and thrive.

This letter to White Woods families was shared via SchoolMessenger.

This letter from Education Minister Paul Calandra was sent to families via SchoolMessenger.

/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Min-Letter-to-Parents-NNDSB-Supervision-Eng-Signed.pdf

It was announced at last night’s (Sept. 9) meeting of the 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) that the Town of Parry Sound has granted occupancy of Parry Sound High School to NNDSB.

Since then, the administration has been working with its partners to implement a plan for getting staff and students into classrooms.

We are pleased to share that the school will be ready to welcome students back to in-person learning on Monday, Sept. 15.

The transportation consortium has up-to-date busing information��for all PSHS students on their Web Parent Portal. Details on how to access the portal can be found Please note that limited student parking is available in the student lot on Joseph Street.

Thank you for your patience as we worked through a number of challenges to ensure students can return safely to school. The administration and staff are very excited to welcome everyone back to the PSHS building on Monday.

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NNDSB updates contingency plan, moves PSHS to remote learning

After thoughtful consideration, 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) has decided to move Parry Sound High School (PSHS) to remote learning. Though the list of unresolved items at PSHS is small, administration made the decision in order to give staff, students and families time to prepare for a remote start to the school year.

This move to remote learning affects secondary students (Grades 9-12) at PSHS only. Students in Grades JK-6 will attend school at McDougall Public School, and students in Grades 7-8 who would have attended the new JK-12 school will attend school at Nobel Public School.

NNDSB will post an updated contingency plan and revise the JK-12 Parry Sound school page on Aug. 27 to reflect this information.

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Chair commits to strengthening governance practice

The 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) Board of Trustees wishes to address recent events concerning the unfair treatment of NNDSB administration.

As trustees, our foremost responsibility is to serve students, families and our communities with integrity and respect. In this instance, our actions created uncertainty and concern among staff and the public. We recognize that the way in which this matter was handled did not reflect the standards of fairness, professionalism and collaboration that our communities expect of us.

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we extend a sincere apology to our NNDSB administration, to all employees of NNDSB and to the public. We deeply regret the impact this has had on trust and confidence in the important work of our school system.

Moving forward, the Board is committed to strengthening our governance practices. Our collective focus remains on providing safe, supportive and high-quality learning environments for all students.

We thank our staff, students, families and communities for their continued dedication and support.

Ashley St. Pierre

Chair of NNDSB

NNDSB releases PS JK-12 school contingency plan

17�Թ��� (NNDSB) has prepared and published a comprehensive contingency plan as it continues to respond to the delay in the completion of the JK-12 school in Parry Sound. The plan for parents, caregivers and students is now posted.

The board acknowledges that this delay and the resulting confusion have affected students and their families. The plan ensures student safety and well-being and the continuation of learning, which are of paramount importance.

Since the news of the delay was confirmed, NNDSB staff have been working diligently behind the scenes to create a contingency plan that meets the needs of not only its students and staff, but also the board’s partner organizations. A contingency plan of this magnitude involves a variety of the board’s departments, as well as outside organizations, which have many roles in ensuring safe learning environments for students and staff.

Because of its nature, the contingency plan is fluid, and at times, changes may need to be made. Changes may be communicated via the board, the school, and/or the webpage.

The plan and FAQs can be found on the board’s website, on this page.

NNDSB will release Parry Sound JK-12 school contingency plan for students and families on Aug. 15

17�Թ��� (NNDSB) has prepared and is implementing a comprehensive contingency plan as it continues to respond to the delays in the completion of the JK-12 school in Parry Sound. Staff are diligently working to prepare welcoming and appropriately resourced learning environments for students, and will be ready to welcome students to school Sept. 2, 2025.

The board acknowledges that these delays and resulting confusion have affected students, families and staff. The plan has been carefully designed to consider all aspects of student safety and well-being. It will be released on Friday, Aug. 15, 2025.

The ongoing delays have resulted in a contingency plan that meets the needs of students, staff, families and board partner organizations. A contingency plan of this magnitude must consider all board departments and outside organizations which contribute to the success of NNDSB.

The contingency plan will remain fluid, and changes may be required at which time communication will be shared. Information will be included on the webpage, and we will endeavour to keep it updated.

Storm forces cancellation of NNDSB summer school programming at Canadian Ecology Centre

17�Թ��� (NNDSB) is sad to announce that the devastating storm that swept through the Mattawa area on Saturday evening has forced the cancellation of summer school programming offered by our long-standing partner, the Canadian Ecology Centre (CEC).

The Canadian Ecology Centre is a non-profit organization supporting outdoor and environmental education. Teachers and students from across the province register every year to take advantage of the unique learning opportunity at the CEC.

Thankfully, all who were at the CEC on Saturday evening are safe, but the centre and surrounding Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park took a direct hit from the severe storm. The storm caused significant and landscape-altering damage.

Both sessions of the summer credit courses have been cancelled.

Staff of CEC have reached out to registered students and staff, and the process of demitting and refunding students has begun. Phone lines are down, and people are asked to be patient as staff reach out over the coming days.

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Wednesday, June 11, 2025

At the regular meeting of 17�Թ��� last night, Zone 3 Trustee Jeanie Fuscaldo announced her resignation, effective June 11.

At May’s meeting of the Board of Trustees, Zone 1 Trustee Chantal Phillips announced her resignation, effective at the end of June.

Chair St. Pierre thanked Trustees Fuscaldo and Phillips for their contributions to public education.

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The following are the highlights of the 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) meeting of Tuesday, May 13, 2025.

Resignation of Trustee Chantal Phillips announced

Board Chair Ashley St. Pierre announced the resignation of Zone 1 Trustee Chantal Phillip, effective June 30, 2025.

Trustee Phillips noted that she has appreciated the work, but is moving out of the region.

Trustees vote to divide funds among schools��

Trustees voted to support a notice of motion put forward by Trustee Jeanie Fuscaldo and Vice-Chair Howard Wesley to divide the funds in the Trustee Initiative Fund equally between all NNDSB schools.

Discussion took place about whether the funds would be divided on a per capita basis or by school. It was decided that since rural schools don’t have as large a student population, which affects funding, funds would be split equally between all schools.

Incoming Student Trustee introduced

In his written report to the Board, Director of Education Craig Myles welcomed incoming Student Trustee Dev Bassi, who attended the Board meeting. Dev will be sworn in at the September Board meeting. The report also noted that Indigenous Student Trustee Riley Trudeau is serving a two-year term, and the Director looks forward to her continued hard work, contributions and successes.

Other items in the Director’s report included an ALS-inspired ice bucket challenge at Chippewa Secondary School to raise awareness, break the stigma and support mental health education. The staff encouraged their colleagues at West Ferris to participate.

West Ferris Secondary School students in the personal life management program were recognized by The Gathering Place during Volunteer Appreciation Week. Every Tuesday, student volunteers assist with folding laundry, rolling cutlery and�� packaging snacks.

Parry Sound High School students had great success at the Skills Ontario Competition 2025 in Toronto. Rachel Nobel placed second and Miya Rochon placed third in the restaurant service competition, and Makayla Strydom and Ashlyn Belanger finished first in TV and Film Production. They will be travelling to the Skills Canada National Competition in Regina on May 29-30.

The report also notes that school boards will receive funding to support students in summer 2025, to provide consistent and reliable mental health services. This will ensure continuity of services over the summer months.

Indigenous Student Trustee’s report

Indigenous Student Trustee Riley Trudeau reported that the Indigenous Youth Circle (IYC) has been busy with Red Dress Day, the Moose Hide Campaign and powwows. IYC has been raising awareness of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) while fundraising to support the Ojibwe Women’s Lodge in Nipissing First Nation.

IYC members attended a visit by Ted Nolan, who spoke about being a member of the Garden River First Nation community and his journey into the National Hockey League as a player and coach.

Teachings and powwows have started at schools, including events at which feeder school students attend secondary school events as a transition activity. Indigenous perspectives are connected to classroom topics such as art, literacy, social studies and history. IYC is grateful for the Niigan Gdizhaami (NG) fund, which supports events in collaboration with Dokis First Nation.

17�Թ��� are preparing for their powwows, including the first teaching and learning powwow at Almaguin Highlands Secondary School.

Student Trustee’s report

Student Trustee Nanak Sidhu reported that student life across the district has been busy, with cultural celebrations, athletic excellence, artistic flair and community-minded service.

At Chippewa, students participated in the Special Olympics North Bay Fun Run, and delivered 150 pounds of non-perishable food to the North Bay Food Bank. A group of West Ferris Trojans completed the North Bay Fire and Emergency Services Firefighter-in-Training camp, gaining first-hand experience in emergency response teamwork.

At the Kiwanis Music Festival, Chippewa’s Grade 7/8 band earned silver, the secondary concert band earned silver and gold, the Jazz Ravens struck gold, and the guitar ensemble earned silver.

West Ferris hosted the regional DramaFest North, at which Almaguin’s Tartan Theatre advanced to the provincial showcase with Failure and Fortitude: The Female Edison.

Jiya Savsani of West Ferris attended the Renfrew Regional Science Fair, winning gold in Engineering and Computer Science. She won the OACETT/OPG Award and the grand award, earning a spot at the Canada-wide Science Fair in Fredericton.

Newly elected Student Senators were provided with foundational information about meetings. The upcoming meeting will focus on strategic planning.

Later this month, Student Trustee Sidhu will represent NNDSB at the Ontario Student Trustees’ Association annual general meeting in Toronto. This will be his final conference as president.

Trustees seek meeting with Education Minister

Trustees voted to request a meeting with Education Minister Paul Calandra, at which they would like to discuss the new JK-12 Parry Sound school and the Board’s decision to keep McDougall Public School open for one more year.

There have been several letters written between Board Chair Ashley St. Pierre and the Minister of Education about the decision. The Board wants a meeting in which they wish to discuss past decisions, including minutes of past meetings.

The Board seeks a meeting with Minister Calandra, Parry Sound-Muskoka MPP Graydon Smith, and delegates of NNDSB (including Chair St. Pierre, other trustees and board staff).

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Note: the full agenda package is posted on the website prior to meetings, and official minutes are posted after they are approved at the next Board meeting.

Laurentian Learning Centre graduate gives back in a big way

17�Թ��� (NNDSB) Laurentian Learning Centre (LLC) graduate Allie Travale credits the alternative school with “saving my life in many ways,” and has thought about giving back to the school ever since graduating in 2015. It wasn’t until four years later that an opportunity to do just that presented itself.

Travale, who had excelled academically throughout school, struggled with severe anxiety and depression, which began to harm her education.

“My attendance counsellor, Erin Fitzgerald, played a pivotal role in getting me into the LLC. At the LLC, I was provided with an environment that was flexible, caring, non-judgmental and supportive. The teachers were (and are still) all amazing people. My peers were just youth like me, struggling for a wide variety of reasons, trying to get through school and life,” Travale said. “It creates a feeling of safety being around people who understand struggling in their own ways. The smaller class sizes also helped a lot with my anxiety.

“I grew so much in my time attending the LLC. I was able to work through a lot of the anxiety and depression slowly but surely, and part of that growth came from the LLC environment, the available supports, and the consistent encouragement,” Travale said. “I began to see that maybe I could still graduate and live a life worth living after graduation.”

Soon after graduation, Travale dreamed of giving back to the school and assisting future students as she was assisted. “I wanted to be a part of that helpful environment for other young people in situations, or mental places, that I could relate to. It became a dream goal of mine,” Travale said.

An opportunity to realize that dream presented itself in 2019 when Travale and project partner Chelsea Reid learned of the Laidlaw Foundation’s Youth Action Fund, a grant stream focused on youth with “lived experience” in either the education, child and family services or justice system. The grantors specifically wanted youth to lead the project, helping other youth underserved by one or more of those systems.

Travale and Reid then formed C-ACE (Creative Arts-Based Civic Engagement), which aimed to integrate art into the school, funding everything needed for the classes and facilitating the art classes alongside a teacher.

“We hoped to increase attendance, raise student confidence as well as access to self-expression, increase food budget support, incorporate cultural components, and increase credit achievement levels, thereby increasing overall graduation rates,” Travale said. “We also hoped that the results and new art supplies at the school would lead to regular arts credits being offered at the school when our grant ended.”

With assistance from local non-profit N2M2L (Near North Mobile Media Lab), the team’s grant application was accepted in early 2020.

Inspired by their success, Travale began thinking of the next project to take on.

“A second grant project idea came to me in the Summer of 2021. Our grant was set to end at the end of 2021/beginning of 2022, and I was thinking ahead with hopes to apply again,” Travale said. “I was looking for a way to expand what we had done into something even more impactful and beneficial for the students and the school. I knew that we could go even deeper into aiding the wellness impact for students.”

From this desire to do more came the Ways to Wellness Project (WTWP), which supports holistic wellness endeavours by helping to facilitate physical education, general health, and mental wellness opportunities at LLC.

“Through WTWP, media and visual arts are being woven into the school offerings, along with civic engagement opportunities and activities supporting the crucial multi-faceted aspects of well-being,” Travale said. “This includes Indigenous cultural components, such as the creation of the Nishnaabemwin/Anishinaabemowin Language Deck (ALD), which is a key component of the project. The language deck is a bilingual educational flashcard deck designed to encourage and enable people everywhere to understand and speak Anishinaabemowin.”

“The ALD has been an incredible part of this project that LLC students participated in, aiding in language revitalization and cultural pride,” Travale said. “The language deck was reviewed by Nipissing First Nation’s Language Committee, with distribution being supported by Anishinabek Nation to connect with First Nation communities across the province. Other spaces with a variety of culturally relevant programming have received decks as well. We had close to 20 artists onboard for the deck artworks, whose Anishinaabe heritage spans a large geographic region along the North Shore of the Great Lakes. The Seven Sacred Teachings cards artworks were created digitally by LLC and Nbisiing Secondary School students alongside elders/cultural facilitators who spoke about the teachings with the students, which was beautiful.”

The WTWP has also provided physical education equipment, supported cooking classes and food access for students, continued support for art classes, supported the school garden, purchased books and a variety of other supplies, and provided opportunities for field trips and guest speakers/workshop facilitators.

LLC Vice-Principal Lisa Spencer said Travale understands that students need a bit of extra time, extra encouragement and extra support to reach their goals.

“Allie is a creative soul who sees the best in everyone, accepts individuals for who they are and seeks to meet them where they are. Allie contributes an artist’s touch and a big heart to each project she contributes to,” Spencer said. “She comes to LLC as often as she can to work with staff and students to build a community of collaboration and comfort for everyone to learn and experiment. She adds value to the aspects of LLC that students love the most: art, experiences, mentorship, hobbies, community and, of course, learning. Allie is a strong mentor for the students at LLC, and everyone benefits from her gentle presence and determined direction.”

“Access to alternative schooling is incredibly important for youth with lived experience and youth who are struggling. Often, these youth are the ones who fall through the cracks, possibly ending up on a less than favourable path, or worse,” Travale said.

“When these students can learn and grow in a smaller school where alternative approaches, wellness focuses, uplifting teachers, and flexibility are all prioritized, it creates a critical bridge to a brighter future for them,” she added. “Hope and vision can change the entire way that we live our lives, and sometimes we need help getting into that type of mindset.

“We can’t eliminate all of the struggles or unique reasons that youth may need a school like the LLC, but we can do our part to support spaces that help pave better paths forward for those in need. In doing so, we are ensuring that these spaces can continue fostering deeply meaningful transformations for youth, creating lifelong impacts, and ultimately shaping a brighter future for both the youth and our society as a whole,” said Travale.

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Dear Parents and Guardians,

This is a reminder to NNDSB families about what happens during inclement weather.

Transportation services for NNDSB students is provided by Nipissing Parry Sound Student Transportation Services (NPSSTS). This is a third-party provider – NNDSB does not provide the transportation services to our schools.

If NPSSTS believes weather makes it unsafe to transport students, bus cancellations will be announced. Sometimes the cancellations are for all areas and sometimes they are for “corridors”, or some areas of the board. NPSSTS’s has a search option to find out what corridor your student is in; you must know your student’s bus route number to use this search option.

can be found on NPSSTS’s website. Delays and cancellations will also be posted on �����ٳ���’s as early as possible (usually by 6 or 6:15 a.m.), and local radio stations broadcast this information.

Families are encouraged to create an so they can access information via the parent portal.

When buses are cancelled, schools usually remain open for students who are able to walk to school, or who have alternate transportation. Transportation is cancelled for the whole day, so students who are dropped off in the morning must also be picked up at school at the regular dismissal time.

In some circumstances, NNDSB may decide to close a school. This decision could be due to the severity of the weather, loss of power or water.��If schools are��closed��for the day, parents will be notified through��​their��school, board, and local media communications. Our primary concern is always the safety of our students.

If buses to your school are��​either��cancelled for the day​ and/or schools closed, instruction and related student activities will be��provided for your child to complete at home. These activities may include online or offline activities that every child can access. We understand that because each school and community is unique, plans will vary across the board in response to local contexts. However, we plan to ensure that the learning continues for students, despite the weather outdoors.

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The monthly Letter to Families is intended to keep you apprised of news that affects all students and families of 17�Թ��� (NNDSB). It is typically distributed on the first Friday of the month, but is sent the Friday before school begins in September as a welcome to the new school year.

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Director of Education Craig Myles hopes everyone had a safe and enjoyable summer, and offers NNDSB students a heartfelt welcome to the 2024-2025 school year!

Some staff at NNDSB have been working through July and August to prepare our facilities for another school year brimming with lessons and adventure. Our educators are looking forward to providing students with a great year of learning and fun.

To our youngest learners and new families, welcome to NNDSB! This monthly letter is just one way we endeavour to keep our families informed of what’s going on in the board.

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Math fact fluency, or the ability for students to recall basic math facts quickly, accurately, and effortlessly, is an essential component of students’ math knowledge. Lack of fact fluency can slow down students’ processing of more complex math problems and situations.

Recent research shows the importance of fact fluency as a foundation for more difficult math, and even as a predictor of future math success. For these reasons, fact fluency is one important component of math programming across our district as we begin the new school year. Please check out our updated NNDSB Math For Families page for strategies and resources to help your child build fact fluency at home.

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If you’re receiving this letter by email, you’ve filled out the Canadian Anti-Spam Legislation (CASL) form and provided express consent to receive material from NNDSB and your child’s school. If you are reading this online or via social media and would like to receive board news, please be sure to fill out and return the CASL form that will be coming home with students in the first few days of the school year. Alternatively, the form can be accessed here, and returned to your child’s school.

If you do not return the CASL form, you will not receive any communication from either the board or schools.

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Families should have received letters from their child’s school regarding the Ministry of Education’s updated policy guidance about codes of conduct, which includes restrictions on the use of personal mobile devices while at school or school events effective Sept. 1, 2024.

This information is being sent at school level. If you have not received a letter, reach out to your child’s school.

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Student exchange organization YES Canada, in partnership with NNDSB, is welcoming international students from a range of destinations such as Australia, New Zealand, Japan and France to study at local secondary schools in North Bay, Parry Sound and surrounding areas this school year. Hosting opportunities are available in the fall and throughout the school year.

YES Canada is seeking families interested in participating in this rewarding experience and hosting an incoming student. Host families provide a home away from home in a safe and nurturing environment, three meals per day and the opportunity for the student to become a family member. A monthly stipend to offset the cost of hosting is provided, as well as on-going guidance and support from the experienced YES Canada team prior to and during a student’s stay.

If you are interested in hosting an international high school student or would like to learn more about YES Canada’s homestay program and the many benefits of becoming a host, we will be excited to connect with you. Hosting opportunities are available for possible durations of two, three, five, 10 and 12 months.

For more information or to become a YES Canada Host Family email homestay@youthedservices.ca, call 416-624-6200 ext. 410 or visit the .

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Last year, the Ministry of Education directed school boards to share a detailed summary of PA Day activities with families in communication, on the website, on social media and in board buildings.

Information about PA day activities will be included in the monthly letter to families, including links to board’s website.

Click here for information about PA Day activities. You will find a list of dates of PA Days; each link will take you to an outline of that day’s activities for staff. Here is a link to the training that took place Aug. 28 and 29.

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A hard copy of the 2024-2025 school year calendar will be sent home with students, but it can also be found online.

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School transportation is provided by Nipissing Parry Sound Student Transportation Services (NPSSTS), not NNDSB. Families can visit for information on eligibility, walking distances, processes for making changes, registration for the parent portal and to subscribe to notifications.

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There is a communications protocol in place for families to resolve issues that may arise at school. Communications information can be found on this page of the website. Open the communication protocol accordion for more information, including the purpose of the protocol. The family communication protocol will outline the process to be followed in addressing concerns. Escalating an issue to the board office without first working with the teacher and principal will result in your concern being redirected to the school.

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The next meeting of the Board will be held Tuesday, Sept. 10 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting is open to the public and you are welcome to attend in person or join via Zoom. The and login information can be found at the top of the Board and committee meetings page.

Information about the Board, committees and their meetings can be found here.

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The next meeting of the special education advisory committee (SEAC) will be held Thursday, Sept 19 at 1 p.m. via Zoom, or in person at the North Bay board office.

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In addition to staying informed via the board’s website, families can find NNDSB on and .

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

To our Families and Community Partners,

All 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) schools are located on the traditional territories of the Anishinabek. Indigenous Peoples have lived on and honoured Turtle Island for thousands of years. We are grateful to have settled and have made our homes in this beautiful territory.

For generations, many Indigenous communities have celebrated their culture at the summer solstice – the longest day of the year. Today we celebrate, too, during National Indigenous Peoples Day.

We hope that you take the opportunity on this day to reflect on the rich cultures and heritages of Indigenous Peoples not just in this area, but across the country that is known as Canada. First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples have distinct cultures, languages, practices, and spiritual beliefs, but they share a connection to the land that they have stewarded and protected since time immemorial.

The board thanks Indigenous Peoples for their wisdom and guidance. We wish Indigenous students and staff a wonderful day of celebration.

We urge everyone to take time to celebrate and learn more about the First Peoples of this land.

Sincerely,

Craig Myles,

Director of Education

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The monthly letter to families, distributed on the first Friday of the month, is intended to keep you apprised of news that affects all students and families of 17�Թ��� (NNDSB).

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We are nearing the completion of another school year. Director of Education Craig Myles wishes to thank students, their families and staff for their efforts and dedication during the 2023-2024 school year. Congratulations to students who are graduating this year – the Director is proud of your efforts, and wishes you well on the next stages of your journey.

The monthly letter to families will take a break over the summer. The next monthly letter will be distributed on Friday, Aug. 30, in advance of the 2024-2025 school year.

NNDSB wishes all students, staff and their families a safe and happy summer break.

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Did you know that NNDSB is working with the Lung Health Foundation to promote Quash, a judgement-free app that helps youth quit or reduce their vaping?

Teachers and principals are participating in a learning webinar on June 10, and family members will have the opportunity to participate in a stakeholder webinar on Wednesday, June 12 from 7-8 p.m.

The webinar, called Halt the Summer Haze, will boost knowledge about vaping and its dangers while preparing you to start a judgment-free dialogue with a teen you care about. The webinar will touch on the role of stress in your teen’s decision to vape.

Here is the to the webinar.

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Health units in Ontario are required to assess the vaccine records of all children who attend school, and summer is a great time for families to ensure students are up to date on their immunizations.

The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit has provided this information to families, so they know what requirements are for students.

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Student exchange companies MLI Homestay and YES Canada, in partnership with NNDSB, are seeking families in the district including North Bay, Parry Sound and surrounding areas to host international students from a wide range of countries and cultural backgrounds.

For these secondary school students, host families provide a home away from home in a safe and nurturing environment, three meals per day and the opportunity to become a family member. During their stay, students will live with a local family and experience daily life in Canada while developing their English language skills through this immersion experience.

A monthly stipend is provided to host families to offset the cost of hosting. Local coordinators and staff provide ongoing support for host families prior to and during a student’s stay.

Hosting opportunities are available throughout the 2024-2025 school year for possible durations of two, three, five, 10 and 12 months.

If you are interested in hosting an international secondary school student or would like to learn more about YES Canada’s homestay program, contact local coordinator Caitlin Hill, at caitlin.hill@youthedservices.ca or call 705-773-8638.

To learn more about MLI Homestay and their program, contact Kayla, the local coordinator in North Bay at 587-222-7172 or��kknight@mlihomestay.com.

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The NNDSB math team is excited to share a number of ideas that will support your child’s math learning over the summer and build the skills to support them as they transition back into school in September.

Everyday summer activities like gardening, shopping, and camping easily become math learning opportunities. Check out our��Mathematics for Families webpage��for a variety of resources that will help build fluency and understanding. In addition to digital tools and online activities, we’ve included a number of games that are easy and fun to play as a family.

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Ontario Public School Boards’ Association (OPSBA), to which NNDSB belongs, is working in partnership with to conduct a survey.

The survey will help coalition members understand what families need and want when it comes to resources to support them, improve their awareness and support mental health and well-being in children and youth. The results will be used to develop new resources, designed to meet the identified needs.

The deadline for the survey is June 17. Click to access the survey.

In addition to the survey, there is also the opportunity for some parents/caregivers and students to participate in a focus group intended to explore this topic in greater detail. The plan is to host up to six focus groups – four for parents/caregivers and two for students.

Focus groups will be held virtually in late June. Participants will receive a gift card for their time. Anyone interested to know more or who wants to confirm their participation can connect with the Coalition at CoalitionSurvey@opsba.org.

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Families that have elementary students from JK to Grade 7 who are not already in Virtual School and who are looking to register for Virtual School for the 2024-25 school year need to reach out to robert.roy@nearnorthschools.ca by June 16.

Elementary Virtual School will operate through the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) and registration is happening at specific NNDSB locations the week of June 17. Parents and guardians will need to travel to one of those NNDSB locations with original documents (as requested) at a specific time. Those that miss this deadline may be able to register by booking an in-person appointment in the TDSB area.

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The Ontario government is for the first time in 25 years. The following information is drawn directly from the

Ontario will begin consultations this fall with parents and experts on what practical life skills students should learn in school to build a strong foundation that sets them up for success. This can include the mandatory inclusion of life skills like nutritious cooking, changing a tire, sewing a button, using first aid, personal responsibility, and basic economics, all of which can prove valuable throughout a student’s lifespan. This places an emphasis on personal development, decision-making and intrapersonal skills, all of which are in demand by employers across the economy.

Ontario will be introducing a new financial literacy assessment as a graduation requirement to ensure students have the skills and knowledge to create and manage a household budget, save for a home, learn to invest wisely, and protect themselves from financial fraud. Starting in 2025, students will be required to score 70 per cent or higher to meet the financial literacy graduation requirement in their Grade 10 math course. Furthermore, the province will standardize making EQAO Grade 9 Math scores 10 per cent or more of a student’s final mark, a practice already used by the majority of teachers.

The province is also investing in modernized career education programming in their schools with more exposure to the skilled trades and priority economic sectors. The government is investing up to $14 million in 2024-25 for career coaching for Grade 9 and 10 students in the publicly funded education system. In partnership with the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services, this funding will also provide resources and tools to help at-risk youth, individuals in youth justice facilities, and students in other publicly funded educational settings outside of regular classrooms. Through shared agreements with school boards and other existing structures, this career coaching will help young people succeed and become positive members of their communities.

Click to read more from the ministry memo quoted in the information above.

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The 17�Թ��� has implemented early reading screening tools to help educators identify students who are experiencing difficulties with reading so they can receive the support they need to improve their reading proficiency and give them the best opportunity for success.

The Ministry of Education continues to work with federation partners, vendors and school districts to support the universal implementation of early reading screening tools. Individual student results for students in senior kindergarten to Grade 2 will be communicated as part of the 2024-25 elementary Term 1 Report Card. Should you have any questions or concerns about your child’s reading abilities, please contact your child’s teacher.

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The Ministry of Education has in classrooms and improve the safety of children with a standardized and strengthened plan to counter the rise of vaping and the negative impact of mobile devices and social media.

Vaping will be banned in all schools. Students caught using or carrying vapes or cigarettes will have to hand them in, and families will be notified. The government will be installing vape detectors and other security upgrades in schools.

Students in grades K-6 will have to keep their phones on silent and out of sight all day, unless explicitly permitted by an educator. For students in Grades 7-12, cell phones will not be permitted in class unless explicitly permitted by an educator. Social media websites will be removed from school networks and devices and report cards will include comment on students’ distraction levels in class.

In tandem with these changes, the Ministry of Education will be investing $17.5 million in wrap-around supports for student mental health and parent engagement.

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The next meeting of the Board will be Tuesday, June 11 at 6 p.m. The meeting is open to the public and you are welcome to attend in person or join via Zoom. Here is the . The meeting ID is 899 1167 8742; the passcode is 859936 and the number for dial in is 1-855-703-8985.

If attending in person, please confirm attendance by contacting Maureen Egan at 705-472-8170 ext. 5028 or maureen.egan@nearnorthschools.ca.

Information about the Board, committees and their meetings can be found here.

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In addition to staying informed via the board’s website, families can find NNDSB on and .

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

The following are the highlights of the 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) meeting of Tuesday, May 14, 2024.��

Ashley St. Pierre elected Chair of Board

Indigenous Trustee Ashley St. Pierre was elected as Chair of the Board of Trustees at last night’s meeting. The position was left vacant after the resignation of Erika Lougheed in April. St. Pierre, who was elected as the Vice-Chair in the fall, has been serving as the Interim Chair since the resignation.

Zone 4 Trustee Howard Wesley was elected as the new Vice-Chair.

Chair St. Pierre commented that the election to the Chair’s position was meaningful. She said she is among the first Anishinaabe-kweg (Anishinaabe women) elected as the Chair of a Board of Education in Ontario, and may well be the first Anishinaabe-kwe Chair in the public system in the province.

Later in the meeting, during the Chair’s remarks, Chair St. Pierre shared that the Anishinaabe phrase mino-bimaadiziwin means living in a good way. She said that she would like to see the Board moving forward in a good way, and building trust with each other.

Trustee Caren Gagne sworn in

One of the first items of business at Tuesday’s Board meeting was the swearing in of Zone 2 Trustee Caren Gagne.

Trustee Gagne, who was the runner-up in the 2022 election to Erika Lougheed, agreed to step in after Lougheed’s resignation.

Trustee Gagne has as long history of community service, and has previously served as an NNDSB trustee.

Literacy team acknowledged at Board meeting

Members of �����ٳ���’s literacy team were acknowledged at Tuesday’s meeting, in recognition of being a recipient of the��.

The awards celebrate exceptional dedication within school communities in supporting students with dyslexia. According to Dyslexia Canada’s website, the award recognizes the contributions of a variety of school staff who showcase, “remarkable commitment and innovation in ensuring equitable education for students with dyslexia.”

Among the initiatives of the literacy team to support their work is the creation and curation of an internal K-12 literacy site (which has been used by almost 600 different NNDSB educators), a literacy lending library to support educators, system professional development sessions, book clubs and engagement in literacy professional development to support work across the district.

Alicia Smith, executive director of Dyslexia Canada, attended the Board meeting to present the award in person. She also brought congratulatory letters from Dyslexia Canada and the Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC).

Smith said there were 120 nominations for the excellence awards, and only three were entire school boards. She said �����ٳ���’s nomination stood out because the literacy team was so proactive; they had started their work before the Ontario Human Rights Commission’s Right to Read inquiry report was released.

Trustee Initiative Funds to be shared among schools

Trustees approved a motion that will see the Trustee Initiative Funds shared equally among all schools.

The motion was brought to committee of the whole by Trustee Howard Wesley. His motion acknowledged the staff crisis being experienced by staff, the extra work staff tackle and the fundraising that takes place to support school supplies, events and activities. The motion called for the allocation of the Trustee Initiative Fund equally among all schools to provide financial assistance as deemed appropriate by the principals.

Director welcomes incoming student trustees

In his report to the Board, Director of Education Craig Myles welcomed the incoming student trustees, who attended as observers. The incoming student trustee is Nanak Sidhu of Chippewa Secondary School, and the incoming Indigenous student trustee is Riley Trudeau of Northern Secondary School.

Myles shared recognition of school and student achievement with trustees. Chippewa Secondary School has been recognized as one of the top secondary schools in the province for Terry Fox fundraising. West Ferris student and multi-sport competitor Riley Bell has been named the recipient of the Special Olympics Award of Excellence for 2023. Chippewa will be hosting the AA OFSAA boys’ soccer championship June 6-8, with games being held at Nipissing University, the Omischl Sports Complex and Cundari Field.

In promoting excellence in teaching and learning, Myles pointed out the virtual family math night sessions held for primary and junior students and their families, as well as the award presented to the board’s literacy team. More about this award can be found in this media release.

NNDSB staff, working with colleagues at two other boards and the North Bay Society of Architects, supported by Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program engaged in a month of planning to offer the second annual climate change challenge. The goal was for students to create and construct a model of a shelter using only a few provided materials.

Work of NNDSB acknowledged at OPSBA ��

Trustee Bill Steer, who is the NNDSB delegate at the Ontario Public School Boards’ Association (OPSBA), presented a report to trustees.

Highlights include that the Board’s letter (discussed at April’s meeting) was in the OPSBA agenda package, and was highlighted within the correspondence section. The proposed Living Consciously course (also discussed at the April meeting) was presented, with a resolution that the items be referred to the Education Program Work Group for discussion.

Student Trustee Chen’s report to the Board

Student Trustee Dora Chen’s report highlighted the opportunities available to students to equip them with life skills and insights into future opportunities. At Almaguin Highlands Secondary School, life skills workshops were held where students visited four employers, providing graduating seniors with valuable insights. F.J. McElligott also held a career day with 12 presenters.

Many sports are in full play, with soccer, tennis, baseball and track underway. Badminton teams participated at the NDA championship, which was held at Chippewa and West Ferris Secondary 17�Թ���.

Several arts activities are underway, including band performances with the 22 Wing Band, and local representation at drama fest. Chippewa placed first with its performance of Complaints Department and Lemonade.

Student Senate welcomed its new Student Senators at the April meeting, and Student Trustee Chen was able to provide guidance to incoming members on their future roles. Student Trustee Chen also gave a presentation on the expectations of the student trustee.

Within the Ontario Student Trustees’ Association (OSTA), Student Trustee Chen participated and presented at the first ever virtual town hall meeting, with more than 40 student trustees from across Ontario. She presented on the mission statement and priorities of advocacy for Northern Ontario’s Student Trustees. She is excited to be attending the annual general meeting, which will conclude her work as a member of OSTA.

Indigenous Student Trustee Benson report to the Board

Indigenous Student Trustee Albany Benson’s report covered updates from the Indigenous Youth Circle. The primary focus at Parry Sound High School has been preparation for the community powwow in the summer. At West Ferris, an Instagram account has been created to post information about what is happening at the Indigenous Centre, and

students will be attending a staff meeting to talk about what it was like coming from their communities to WFSS. Students at Chippewa have drumming sessions for men and women, prepared a ceremony and acknowledgement of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG), and are preparing for the Moose Hide campaign. Members of OKIMAKAN are working on a presentation that explains different dances to support students’ understanding. Northern has finished presentations to students in Grades 7 and 8, and are also organizing something to honour MMIWG. Almaguin continues to plan for the celebration of National Indigenous People’s Day at the school, MMIWG and the Moose Hide campaign. At F.J. McElligott, the student success hub has been creating an Indigenous banner and preparing for National Indigenous People’s Day with four sessions of Indigenous arts and sports.

IYC is holding its end-of-year retreat at Nipissing University, and the four-board powwow (taking place May 30) was discussed.

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Note: the full agenda package is posted on the website prior to meetings, and official minutes are posted after they are approved at the next Board meeting.

Friday, Feb. 2, 2024

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The monthly Letter to Families, distributed on the first Friday of the month, is intended to keep you apprised of news that affects all students and families of 17�Թ��� (NNDSB).

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Today is a PA Day. Here’s a link that outlines what school-based staff will be doing today.

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The Ministry of Education is shining a light on student mental health and has provided this information sheet supporting the new mental health modules being taught in Grades 7 and 8.

The resource is called Exploring Mental Health Together and outlines what students will be learning, signs of mental health problems, stigma related to mental health, how to manage stress, where to go for help and how to continue the conversation at home.

Although the resource is designed specifically to align with the Grade 7 and 8 health and physical education curriculum, the information may be of interest to all families.

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The Director’s Annual Report, which outlines highlights of the 2022-2023 school year, is now published on the NNDSB website.

The report outlines the progress made in meeting �����ٳ���’s multi-year strategic plan (MYSP) priorities of excellence in teaching and learning, excellence in communication, excellence and relationships and excellence in innovation.

Among the highlights are:

• the implementation of literacy and math diagnostics and literacy screeners to better understand student strengths and needs;
• the launch of tutoring supports to ensure success in literacy and math;
• the launch of the Hockey Skills Canada program in Parry Sound;
• the expansion of the personal support worker program to Mattawa;
• the launch of a custodial services worker program.

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Would you like to recognize an amazing teacher?

Sponsored by the Ontario Teacher Insurance Plan (OTIP) and the Ontario Teachers’ Federation (OTF), the OTIP Teaching Awards recognize teachers in three categories – elementary school teacher, secondary school teacher and beginning teacher in the first five years of teaching.

The awards recognize excellence of teachers in publicly funded education, and a teacher may be nominated by anyone – a colleague, student, families or the public.

The deadline for receipt of nomination is March 31, 2024. More information can be found at .

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There is a new Near North student well-being newsletter that will be created and published monthly.

Families can find the newsletter at as well as in the Edsby news feed.

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The next meeting of the Board will be Tuesday, Feb. 13 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting is open to the public and you are welcome to attend in person or join via Zoom. Here is the . The Meeting ID is 899 1167 8742; the Passcode is 859936 and the number for Dial in is 1-855-703-8985.

If attending in person, please confirm attendance by contacting Maureen Egan at 705-472-8170 ext. 5028 or maureen.egan@nearnorthschools.ca.

Information about the Board, committees and their meetings can be found here.

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In addition to staying informed via the board’s website, families can find NNDSB on and .

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

The following are the highlights of the 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) meeting of Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2023.

Board Chair re-elected, Vice-Chair acclaimed��

At its annual organizational meeting (held prior to the regular Board meeting), Trustee Erika Lougheed was re-elected to the position of Chair of the Board, and Indigenous Trustee Ashley St. Pierre was acclaimed as the Vice-Chair.

For more information, see this media release.

Five-year accessibility plan presented

The board’s five-year accessibility plan was presented to trustees. A report in the agenda package noted the accessibility plan was outdated, and a staff committee was struck to develop an updated plan.

A draft plan was shared with a number of NNDSB stakeholders, including Board committees, Indigenous Youth Circle, Student Senate, school council chairs, the special education team and union partners.

NNDSB has responsibilities under the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) that ensure equitable access to its buildings, programs, services, policies and resources for all students, families, employees and members of the public who make up the NNDSB community.

The plan, which covers the years 2023-2028, lists objectives, actions/outcomes and implementation schedules in the areas of employment, customer services, information and communication, physical environment, transportation.

Math achievement action plan presented to trustees

The board shared its 2023-2024 math achievement plan with trustees. The plan is a result of provincial student achievement priories and metrics aimed at helping students improve Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) scores in reading, writing and math.

The report notes that on the Sept. 29 professional development day, school teams met to select school strategies to support each of the three priority actions. School administrators have determined several actions they will take in their schools to support educator content knowledge, assessment and planning. At the system level, the board is implementing key digital resources assessment and planning tools, and professional learning to ensure coherence and alignment of math priorities across all schools.

Plans made for bullying awareness week

Trustees were made aware of the initiatives underway in the board for bullying awareness and prevention week, taking place Nov. 20-24.

A report to trustees outlined that content for the week spotlights aspects of the board’s safe schools framework and incorporates lessons, resources and activities that challenge students to think about how their actions could cultivate safety in their classrooms, schools and communities.

Though activities differ for elementary and secondary students, the focus will be on citizenship and community, conflict resolution, pink shirt day and online safety.

The full report, and links to more initiatives can be found here.

Draft version of Director’s Annual Report presented

A draft version of the Director’s Annual Report was included in the agenda package for trustees.

The document outlines the progress that was made in the second year of the multi-year strategic plan (MYSP). The annual report provides details on progress made in all four areas of the MYSP – excellence in communications, excellence in relationships, excellence in teaching and learning and excellence in innovation.

Relationships highlighted in Director’s update

In his update, Director of Education Craig Myles spoke about the MYSP pillar of excellence in relationships, and highlighted the NNDSB initiative with local First Nations and the North Bay Battalion.

For three years, NNDSB has partnered to coordinate Indigenous Youth Day, for which Indigenous youth are encouraged to be proud of who they are and share this pride with others . This year, the Proud to Be Me! Indigenous Youth Day was held in coordination with Every Child Matters on Oct. 29. Funds were raised to cover the cost of 2,100 tickets and the game was fully sold out.

Tender awarded for fencing around Chippewa

Trustees approved a recommendation that NNDSB award tender 2024-001 for new fencing at Chippewa Secondary School in the amount of $611,000 plus HST.

The fencing is an additional security measure to address health and safety concerns at the school.

Work will be done to minimize disruption to school operations. Non-disruptive work will be considered for completion during the school day and disruptive work will take place after hours or on weekends.

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Note: the full agenda package is posted on the website prior to meetings, and official minutes are posted after they are approved at the next Board meeting.

EQAO releases 2022–2023 school- and board-level results

The Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) has released the results of the Grades 3 and 6 assessments of reading, writing and mathematics as well as the Grade 9 mathematics and Grade 10 Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT).

The 2022-23 school year marked the second time 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) students completed the new digitalized and modernized EQAO assessments. As per the Ministry direction, students learning in person (and students learning remotely who wrote in person) participated in the assessments in the 2022–2023 school year.

“We are pleased to see a significant increase in the number of Grade 10 students who successfully completed the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test.��Educators worked very hard to ensure students felt prepared for the assessment and their efforts have made a significant impact. While there is still much to do to improve student achievement and core academic skills across grade levels, the 2022-23 EQAO measures have demonstrated relative gains in both Grade 6 mathematics and the Grade 10 Literacy test,” said Superintendent of Teaching and Learning Melanie Gray.

EQAO results across the province of Ontario are consistent with testing in other Canadian jurisdictions. Results have indicated general stability and/or moderate gains in math and literacy skills following several years of learning disruptions due to the global pandemic.

The 2022-23 NNDSB results reveal an increase in the percentage of students who were successful in the OSSLT and increased achievement in Grade 6 mathematics. Improving student achievement across all divisions will continue to be a system-wide focus as staff work to implement evidence-based systematic and explicit instructional approaches in language classrooms and high impact instructional practices in math.

Reading and Writing

Grades 3 and 6: While results vary by school, the overall trends showed stability in Grade 3 reading and writing achievement when compared to 2021-22. Grade 6 outcomes indicate a slight decrease from last year’s results.

• Grade 3: In 2022-23, 59 per cent of Grade 3 students met the provincial standard in reading and 46 per cent of Grade 3 students met the provincial standard in writing.
• Grade 6: In 2022-23, 77 per cent of Grade 6 students met the provincial standard in reading and 70 per cent of Grade 6 students met the provincial standard in writing.

Grade 10: The Grade 10 Literacy Test is a compulsory standardized test for all secondary school students in Ontario working towards an Ontario Secondary School Diploma. The test is based on all of the reading and writing expectations in all subjects up to the end of

Grade 9. In 2022-23, 94 per cent of first-time eligible students participated in the OSSLT and 79 per cent of first-time eligible students who wrote the assessment were successful. This is an increase of eight per cent over the previous year.

Mathematics

Improving mathematics achievement will continue to be a focus for schools across our district. NNDSB has launched a math leadership team that will work collaboratively with 19 school-based math facilitators to effectively implement the math achievement action plan priorities, including the use of high impact instructional practices and strengthening mathematics content knowledge for teaching and learning.

Grades 3 and 6: In 2022-23, 42 per cent of Grade 3 students and 33 per cent of Grade 6 students met the provincial standard in the EQAO mathematics assessments (an increase of six per cent over the previous year).

Grade 9: The Grade 9 EQAO assessment is a computer-based, adaptive assessment that measures the mathematics skills students are expected to have learned by the end of the Grade 9 mathematics course. Thirty-two per cent of students who wrote the Grade 9 de-streamed math test met the provincial standard in 2022-23.

EQAO results are just one of many assessment tools that both schools and boards use to measure and improve upon the quality of student programming and student success.��The new modernized, digital assessments and reporting tools will continue to inform efforts to close gaps in learning and strengthen literacy and math skills.

Learn More:

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Board Highlights – September 2023 meeting

The following are the highlights of the 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) meeting of Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023.

Student trustees take oath of office

Trustees welcomed the 2023-2024 student trustees to the Board at its meeting last night. Both student trustees attend Chippewa Secondary School.

Student Trustee Dora Chen says she ran for office because, “I believe students should have a say in their own education.” She has been a member of student council, a student senator and is the student representative on the Chippewa renaming committee.

Indigenous Student Trustee Albany Benson has a history of involvement at school and in the community. She wants to ensure Indigenous youth “feel comfortable and heard at school.”

Trustee Louise Sargent said the student trustee positions are valuable as they bring the viewpoints of students to the Board. She said she looked forward to working with Student Trustee Chen and Indigenous Student Trustee Benson. “The students are very fortunate to have you,” said Trustee Sargent.��

Strategic plan progress review

A comprehensive progress review of the multi-year strategic plan was presented to trustees in the agenda package. The review updates stakeholders on the work to date of the 2021-2026 plan, with a focus on the progress achieved in the 2022-2023 school year, and the goals for the 2023-2024 school year.

The update shows the board is in the recovery period and growth toward a change in culture and operational processes can be expected for another couple of years.

In his verbal report to the Board, Director of Education Craig Myles said the board must “stay the course with that plan on a constant, cyclical basis

The full progress review can be found here.

Committee meetings scheduled��

In addition to the committee-of-the-whole, there are several committees of the Board whose work helps to conduct business more effectively. The public is invited to attend public committee meetings.

As always, a calendar of upcoming meetings was included in the agenda package.

Upcoming public meetings include the audit committee on Sept. 19 at 3 p.m. and the special education advisory committee on Sept. 21 at 1 p.m.

Attendance details may be found on this page of the Board agenda.

Audit committee seeks community member

Trustee Shane Hall, Chair of the Audit Committee, mentioned in his report that the committee is looking to add a community member to the committee. This is a volunteer position.

For more information, please see the posting.

Two NNDSB schools are Eco champions

Two NNDSB schools were recognized with Eco17�Թ��� certification for environmental excellence this year.

Nobel Public School earned a platinum status for points achieved in alignment with eco-action and Silver Birches Elementary School earned gold status for points achieved in alignment with student well-being in the environment.

Participation in the Eco17�Թ��� program is just one way the NNDSB is furthering the goals of the multi-year strategic plan, particularly the pillars of excellence in teaching and learning and excellence in innovation.

Board meeting dates confirmed

The Board set the dates for its upcoming meetings.

The organizational meeting will be held Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2023. The Board chose to move the March meeting from the proposed date of March 12 to March 19 because the 12^th falls during March Break.

Virtual attendance will be facilitated via Zoom, and the meetings will be hosted in person from the North Bay Board room.

Trustees support SBO’s OSBIE nomination

Trustees voted in favour of supporting the nomination of �����ٳ���’s Superintendent of Business, Seija Van Haesendonck, to the board of directors of Ontario School Board Insurance Exchange (OSBIE) Northeast Region.

SBO Van Haesendonck is currently a director, and Director Myles said he hoped trustees would “support her serving her second term.” Myles added that it reflects well on NNDSB to have a superintendent on that board.

The elections for OSBIE directors take place in early November.

PIC continues to support NNDSB families

The Board agenda package contains a year-end report from the Parent Involvement Committee (PIC) which summarizes the committee’s activities.

In the 2022-2023 school year, �����ٳ���’s PIC provided three presentations which resulted from the previous year’s survey to school councils. There was a session on

mental health, a session on bullying prevention and a session on equity and inclusion.

The committee also provided opportunities for school council reps to attending virtual networking sessions.

The committee also received $19,500 in Parent Reaching Out funds to support 14 approved projects.

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Note: the full agenda package is posted on the website prior to meetings, and official minutes are posted after they are approved at the next Board meeting.

New year kicks off with two new student trustees

17�Թ��� (NNDSB) Chair Erika Lougheed and Director of Education Craig Myles welcomed trustees back after summer break and warmly greeted two new student trustees at Tuesday’s Board meeting.

Student Trustee Dora Chen and Indigenous Student Trustee Albany Benson were appointed following their recommendation by the Near North Student Senate (Chen) and the Indigenous Youth Council (Benson). Both students attend Chippewa Secondary School.

Chen has been a member of student council, a student senator and is the student representative on the Chippewa renaming committee. She ran for office because she wants to “give students in NNDSB a voice at the Board table, as I believe students should have a say in their own education.” She also wants to advocate for initiatives that will benefit students.

Chen says she is most passionate about French language education, as well as education funding, especially creating opportunities for students interested in the arts.

Benson has a history of community involvement, including being a figure skating coach, organizing donations for Fort Albany, raising money for the food bank and organizing events for Indigenous students at school.

She wants to act as a voice for all Indigenous youth in NNDSB, and to “ensure they feel comfortable and heard at school. I aim to fulfil the needs and rights of Indigenous students.”

Chair Lougheed encouraged the student trustees to “get in and ask questions”. Trustee Julie Bertram welcomed them, and said she was looking forward to their participation which is “important in these types of rooms.”

The organizational Board meeting, in which trustees elect the year’s Chair and Vice-Chair and select the committees they would like to work on, will be held Nov. 14, 2023.

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Dear Parents and Guardians,

Minister of Education Stephen Lecce has provided 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) with this letter, and asked that it be sent to our school communities.

He has also recorded a in which students, families and staff are updated on what’s new for the 2023-2024 school year. Minister Lecce extends his gratitude and best wishes for students as the new school year begins.

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The monthly Letter to Families, distributed on the first Friday of the month, is intended to keep you apprised of news that affects all students and families of 17�Թ��� (NNDSB).

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Director of Education Craig Myles hopes everyone had a safe and enjoyable summer, and he offers NNDSB students a heartfelt welcome to the 2023-2024 school year!

Some staff at NNDSB have been working hard through July and August to prepare our facilities for another school year brimming with lessons and adventure. Our educators are looking forward to providing students with a great year of learning and fun.

To our youngest learners and new families, welcome to NNDSB! This monthly letter is just one way we endeavour to keep our families informed on what’s going on in the board.

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If you’re receiving this letter by email, you’ve filled out the Canadian Anti-Spam Legislation (CASL) form and provided express consent to receive material from NNDSB and your child’s school. If you are reading this online or via social media and would like to receive board news, please be sure to fill out and return the CASL form that will be coming home with students in the first few days of the school year. Alternatively, the form can be accessed here, and returned to your child’s school.

If you do not return the CASL form, you will not receive any communication from either the board or schools.

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In July, the Ministry of Education directed school boards to share a detailed summary of PA Day activities with families in communication, on the website, on social media and in board buildings.

A letter was sent to families on Aug. 16, outlining the PA day activities that took place Aug. 30 and 31.

Information about upcoming training will be found on �����ٳ���’s website by clicking the PA Day Activities button on the home page. The listing of activities will be found on this page.

The next PA Day will be Friday, Sept. 29. Here is the link to the training taking place that day.

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A hard copy of the 2023-2034 school year calendar will be sent home with students, but it can also be found online.

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A technical issue has temporarily closed parental access to Edsby. NNDSB is hoping for a quick resolution to this issue.

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The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit has been working with the four local school boards’ mental health leads and other community partners to promote the importance of regular school attendance on school success.

Using the research of Attendance Works, the team is advocating that students should not miss more than seven days of school each year to stay engaged, successful and on track for graduation. Frequent absences can be a sign the student is losing interest in school, struggling with schoolwork, dealing with a bully or facing some other potentially serious difficulty.

It’s important for open communication with teachers and principals so NNDSB can support our students and their families.

NNDSB will support the attendance initiative by sharing resources and information on its social media channels.

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School transportation is provided by Nipissing Parry Sound Student Transportation Services (NPSSTS), not NNDSB. Families can visit www.npssts.ca for information on eligibility, walking distances, processes for making changes, registration for the parent portal and to subscribe to notifications.

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The next meeting of the Board will be held Tuesday, Sept. 12 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting is open to the public and you are welcome to attend in person or join via Zoom. The link can be found at the top of the agenda.

If attending in person, please confirm attendance by contacting Krista Messenger at 705-472-8170 ext. 5028 or krista.messenger@nearnorthschools.ca.

Information about the Board, committees and their meetings can be found here.

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In addition to staying informed via the board’s website, families can find NNDSB on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Sincerely,
17�Թ���

�����ٳ���’s youngest learners connect with nature thanks to unique forest practitioner course

Over the course of the last two years, 19 kindergarten teachers and early childhood educators from the 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) have participated in a forest practitioner course provided by the Child and Nature Alliance of Canada (CNAC) held at the Canadian Ecology Center and supported by the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit.

South Shore Education Centre kindergarten teacher Rhonda Hyatt said that many of the principles of the forest and nature school are incorporated in the kindergarten program.

“Early in the spring, when a few dandelions are popping up, we talk about one of our harvesting rules, are there a few or many? Some creatures depend on food from these plants early in the spring.��Once there are many, many more dandelions in the yard, it’s a better time for us to pick some for bouquets or dandelion chains,” Hyatt said. “We chat about plants and berries that some people gather for food and other reasons.”

While engaged in outdoor learning, students are making decisions, pursuing their interests, learning from and connecting with the land, developing respect, and exploring relationships. Time spent in nature encourages children’s curiosity, and nurtures connectedness with the land and each other.

Educators learn about the principles of the Forest and Nature School through CNAC’s Practitioners Course. CNAC is committed to truth-telling and reconciliation. Connecting with Indigenous Peoples locally, building relationships, and co-creating programming with Indigenous partners are among CNAC’s commitments to responsibilities on this land. These understandings guide the learning and experiences of the practitioner’s course.

Aspects of the course focus on recognizing risk as an important part of play, reflecting on our own relationship with the land and engaging with local Indigenous Peoples.

Hyatt said that important lessons for these youngest learners are drawn from providing regular and repeated access to nature, offering time and space for children to dive deeply into play, and from teachers learning alongside children in play-based and inquiry-driven experiences. Importance is placed on always recognizing children as competent, capable, and curious.

“We walk gently in the bush, being careful not to damage young or fragile plants, or other living things. If we come across an animal such as a grouse or a bee, we give them space so that they don’t feel threatened by us,” Hyatt said. “The children are also reminded to give others space when they want time on their own, sometimes friends want a quiet spot, or some space to themselves.”

Hyatt said students’ observational skills are encouraged while engaging in outdoor learning with a philosophy of “look up, look down, look all around.

“When we do this, we might be looking to notice changes in plants, or we might be focusing on risks to be aware of. This can include checking the underside of the leaves on milkweed plants for monarch butterfly larvae, looking at leaves on the trees and on the ground, noticing low branches and thorn bushes and deciding together that it is not an area for running.” Hyatt said.

When gathered together to talk about their outdoor time together students discuss what they did that day such as following deer tracks, making a home for an animal, or climbing a log for a lookout point. They also talk about what they want to do and learn the next time, like, playing in puddles, investigating a hole in a tree or why there is a trail of tiny fluffy webs on the grass.

As the school year ends these young students can take their learning and appreciation of nature with them on their summer adventures and continue to connect with the land with their families.

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For more information contact:

Brett Hanson
Communications Coordinator
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5083
E. Brett.Hanson@nearnorthschools.ca

Tuesday, June 6, 2023

Dear Parents and Guardians,

A weather advisory regarding air quality is still in place. With guidance from the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit, 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) is planning to allow its students to attend the scheduled Armed Forces Day on Wednesday, June 7.

Young people are among the vulnerable and at-risk groups. The health unit has recommended that participants be allowed to attend Armed Services Day with reduced exposure time and no strenuous activities.

As they would with any outdoor event, supervisors will monitor students for any signs of discomfort or distress. Parents and guardians who are concerned also have the option to not allow their child to attend.

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

Friday, June 2, 2023

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The monthly Letter to Families, distributed on the first Friday of the month, is intended to keep you apprised of news that affects all students and families of 17�Թ��� (NNDSB).

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We have come to the end of the 2023-2023 school year. The monthly Letter to Families will take a summer hiatus, but NNDSB families will continue to receive communication from the board on relevant and/or urgent topics. The regular monthly letter will be in your inboxes on Friday, Sept. 2 with news and details to get you and your students off to a great start for the 2023-2024 school year.

Warmest congratulations to all secondary school graduates on your well-deserved success. We are sure that NNDSB has prepared you well for your next adventures.

NNDSB wishes all students and families a safe and happy summer!

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Term 2 elementary report cards and kindergarten communication of learning reports will be printed and distributed to families on June 28, 2023. If your child will be absent that day, the report card will be mailed to your home. Term 2 reports cards and communication of learning reports will not be available in Edsby.

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Families are reminded to please connect with their current school before the end of June if they anticipate changing schools over the summer. If you plan on moving to a new home, please use the to determine which school your child is eligible to attend. It’s best to make your school aware of this change now, so that your child will have a smooth transition in September.

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Nipissing Parry Sound Student Transportation Services (NPSSTS) is also hoping that families will provide them with updated information to assist with a smooth transition in September.

If your address and/or before and/or after school care is changing for next school year, advise your school before Friday, June 23. If you cannot notify the school by then, please notify by emailing registrations@nearnorthschools.ca. Moves may affect transportation.

NPSSTS is open all summer from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. They can be reached at 705-472-8840 or toll-free at 1-833-622-1636, or by email at info@npssts.ca.

Families can also visit for information on eligibility, walking distances, processes for making changes, registration for the parent portal and to subscribe to notifications.

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There is still time to register for summer school! Families will find information about this year’s programs and credit courses on the summer school page of the board’s website.

The full- and half-credit courses listed for Grades 9-12 are all e-learning courses. The courses run July 4-29 inclusive, and students must have access to a device and reliable internet to connect to course content.

Several additional learning opportunities are taking place in person. Check out the website for more information, including contacts and registration deadlines.

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A number of virtual learning camps will be offered to NNDSB students this summer. These assistive technology camps will increase independence, confidence, and self-advocacy of students in Grades 3-8 as they learn new strategies for using assistive technology tools. In addition, a specific high school-readiness program is being offered for students transitioning into Grade 9 in September.

There is also a coding and robotics program for students with ASD, with the aim of enhancing social and behavioural regulation skills in an authentic coding environment. The summer camp flyer with more information is available��here.��Please connect with your school’s resource teacher to learn more about registration for these virtual camps.

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The 2023-2024 school year calendar has been approved by the Ministry of Education, and uploaded to the board’s website.

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Upcoming NNDSB Board and committee meetings are as follows:

• Finance committee, Tuesday, June 6 at 11 a.m.
• North Bay Consolidation committee, Tuesday, June 6 at 1 p.m.
• Equity Advisory Circle, Wednesday, June 7, 9:30 a.m.
• Committee-of-the-Whole (Board), Tuesday, June 13 at 6 p.m.
• Full Board meeting, Tuesday, June 13 at 6:30 p.m.
• Parent Involvement Committee, June 14 at 10 a.m. via Teams
• Special Education Advisory Committee, June 15 at 1 p.m. via Zoom
• Audit committee, Tuesday, June 20 at 3 p.m.
• First Nations Advisory Council, Thursday, June 22 at 10 a.m.

Information about the Board, committee and their meetings can be found here.

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Edsby is seeking input from its end users. If members of your family would like to participate as a parent or student, please see complete . It is a simple two-step form.

Edsby uses the data to benchmark user satisfaction over time, understand differences in customers’ use of Edsby, determine where additional Edsby training might be required, and to guide decisions on where to focus engineering efforts.

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In addition to staying informed via the board’s website, families can find NNDSB on , and .

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

Committee’s work remains grounded in Human Rights Code

The Chippewa Secondary School Renaming Committee met on May 17, 2023, to continue its work of determining the best path forward in selecting a new name for Chippewa Secondary School. The committee acknowledged that many voices and perspectives have been brought forward throughout this process. The committee, in alignment with the direction of the 17�Թ���, (NNDSB), continues to prioritize student well-being and the work of the committee remains grounded in the Human Rights Code.

Members heard and discussed the Feb. 16, 2023, statement from the Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC), which states, in part, that the “OHRC is aware and concerned about the increasing violence targeted at education officials for doing human rights work, adhering to the obligations set under the Ontario Human Rights Code and implementing government policy.” Like the OHRC, NNDSB remains committed to providing resources, increasing understanding and advancing the human rights of all. The OHRC acknowledges that educational officials continue to be the targets of hate and violence for doing this work, despite the fact that these officials have a legal duty to provide education and learning environments that follow and support the Human Rights Code. The full statement issued by the OHRC can be found .

NNDSB remains committed to supporting all students, which includes removing barriers that perpetuate harm. The committee has learned, through this process, that �����ٳ���’s current School Openings, Closing and Consolidation Administrative Guideline requires updates that more closely reflect the mandates set forth in the Human Rights Code. Changes to that Administrative Guideline will follow the usual process for approval, including a 30-day consultation period. Once complete, the Administrative Guideline will ensure that the human rights of all people are prioritized and maintained in the opening, closing, or consolidation of any NNDSB school.

The committee looks forward to meeting again and continuing its work once the new administrative guideline is complete.

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Dear Parents and Guardians,

17�Թ��� (NNDSB) is looking to gauge interest in virtual learning for the 2023-24 school year.

We have created a survey for all NNDSB families to complete to let us know their interests and intentions for the next school year. The survey does NOT register your student for virtual learning next year but will help gauge interest. If we have enough interest each year, we can look at offering virtual learning within NNDSB. The link to the survey is at the bottom of this communication. The survey will close at noon on May 4, 2023.

Below are the requirements for the Virtual School program based on the Ministry of Education guidelines.

Virtual Learning – Asynchronous vs. Synchronous

In the past, NNDSB offered virtual learning for both elementary (VLE) and secondary school (VLS) students in both the synchronous (in real time, interactive with teacher and class) and asynchronous (with daily submission of work and check-ins but work done independently) formats. For most students, synchronous learning is the best way to support a positive learning environment. It is much more difficult to gain the full depth and breadth of experiences using the asynchronous learning method as there are limited interactions between peers and educators.

Virtual Learning: What would it look like?

• Virtual Learning: Elementary (VLE) – Classes would be split grades (e.g., one class with students from Grades 1-3, or one class Grades 3-6, etc.).
• Virtual Learning: Secondary (VLS) – All secondary students have already completed course selections for next year at their home schools. For students and families opting to attend VLS, every effort would be made to offer courses that students require for their chosen pathway to graduation, though there would be limited programming and new virtual courses would need to be selected which may not match what was chosen at the home school. Many of the online courses offered would be e-learning courses with no live component.
• Specialized Programming – NNDSB cannot offer French Immersion, Extended French, or any specialized programming virtually, due to limited numbers of students accessing those programs and the limited availability of qualified teachers.
• Special Education Classes and IEPs (Individual Education Plans) – Our experience over the past three years has shown that in-person learning is the best format to support students with special education needs, particularly those students registered in a special education class through the Identification, Placement and Review (IPRC) process. For this reason, all special education classes will remain in person only. Other students with special education needs would continue to be supported with the necessary accommodations, modifications or alternative programs provided in their individual education plan (IEP), whether their choice is for in-person or virtual learning.

Form to show interest in Virtual Programming for 2023-2024 school year

If you are interested in choosing virtual learning for your child(ren) please Parents and guardians are asked to complete the form immediately as it will be used to plan for the 2023-2024 school year. The survey will close at noon May 4, 2023. ��

If you have questions, please reach out to the Virtual School secretary at virtualschool@nearnorthschools.ca. Thank you for helping us to prepare for the next school year.

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

Police resolve possible threat to Chippewa Secondary School overnight

The safety and well-being of Near North District Board (NNDSB) staff and students is our top priority. Overnight, North Bay Police Services investigated a possible threat to Chippewa Secondary School and were able to quickly determine that there was no threat to staff or students.

The NNDSB would like to thank those who brought this to the attention of the police and administration, allowing for a quick resolution and confirming the safety of staff and students to attend the school. We appreciate the actions and communication of the North Bay Police Services throughout the investigation.

Chippewa Secondary School will be open as usual on Thursday, Feb. 16, 2023.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

The following are the highlights of the 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) meeting of Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2023.

Trustees provided with on-going PD opportunities

The elected and student trustees are regularly offered on-going professional development (PD) to help them understand their roles. PD is a standing item on the Board agenda.

This month, several opportunities were presented to trustees, including the annual Public Education Symposium (PES) presented by Ontario Public School Boards’ Association (OPSBA). Read more about trustee professional development in this media release.

Director’s Annual Report

As required by the Education Act, the Director of Education must report annually on the activities within the system. The 2021-2022 report was provided to trustees in November (the inaugural meeting) and was submitted to the ministry in December. It is now available .

Capital projects approved

Trustees approved 2022-2023 capital projects estimated at approximately $9,210,442.

Several of the projects are for heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) upgrades that have been funded through COVID-19 resilience infrastructure stream (CVRIS) initiatives, but that require additional capital funding.

Other capital projects include bus loops, security camera upgrades, architectural studies and accessible washrooms.

MYSP Committee presents semi-annual report

The Multi-Year Strategic Plan (MYSP) Committee meets four times a year and provides reports to the Board and stakeholders in January and June.

The report notes that it will take time for the MYSP to be embedded into the board’s culture and that 2022-2023 will be critical for implementing changes that align board actions toward meeting priorities of the plan.

This school year will focus on re-engagement, learning recovery and improving student outcomes, as guided by the Ministry of Education’s Learning Recovery Action Plan.

Committee Chair Bill Steer said across the system, staff are working together to achieve the goals set for board, school and student achievement. “The six-week cycles of plan, act, observe and reflect are helping staff monitor school effectiveness, which supports student achievement, equity and well-being for all students,” he said.

The MYSP report can be found here.

Student trustees report on

Both student trustees provided reports the Board, outlining events and activities at schools across the district.

Indigenous Student Trustee Allen Lewis Trodd reported that the Indigenous Youth Circle had met earlier that day to share ideas and talk about the concerns of Indigenous students. He also reported that a group called Oshkishkode was organized at Parry Sound High School. The group meets to share drumming and will be organizing the powwow at the school. Indigenous Student Trustee Trodd explained that the group name meant new fire, and represents the spark of the youth at the school.

Student Trustee Cecilia Darling reported that activities have resumed at the district’s secondary schools since the winter break. She reported on the social, athletic and other activities that are running at the schools, and noted that students are preparing for exams which will mark the end of semester one.

Committee membership completed

Trustees were appointed to committees at the inaugural Board meeting in November 2022, although there were a few committees that still required trustee appointments.

At Tuesday’s Board meeting, Trustees Shane Hall (primary east-west), Jeanie Fuscaldo (secondary east-west) and Julie Bertram (north) were appointed to the Supervised Alternative Learning (SAL) Committee, a legislated committee. In the past, regional trustees were involved on an as-needed basis. NNDSB believes that consistent membership will be more beneficial for training and consistency.

The ad hoc committees to rename Chippewa and the new build on the Fricker site each require two trustees. Trustees Julie Bertram and Louise Sargent were appointed to the Chippewa Renaming Committee, and Trustees Shane Hall and Bill Steer were appointed to the W.J. Fricker Renaming Committee, with Louise Sargent as an alternate.

Board alters meeting schedule

Trustee Louise Sargent brought forward a motion to the Committee of the Whole meeting regarding the scheduling of Board and Committee of the Whole meetings.

Trustee Sargent’s notice of motion wanted Committee of the Whole meetings to be held on the second Tuesday of the month and Board meetings to be held on the fourth Tuesday of the month. Trustee Sargent felt that by having two weeks between meetings, trustees would have time for fruitful discussion and to hear public input about issues in order to make informed decisions at Board meetings.

The change will be effective for the February 2023 meetings. Watch the website for meeting dates and agendas.

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Note: the full agenda package is posted on the website prior to meetings, and official minutes are posted after they are approved at the next Board meeting.

For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett (she/her)
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170 ext. 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Board encourages professional development for trustees

Trustees and student trustees of 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) are provided with several professional development (PD) opportunities throughout the year, in alignment with the board’s goal of ensuring trustees are supported as part of the strategic commitment to Excellence in Teaching and Learning. At the Jan. 10 Board meeting, several opportunities were brought forward for consideration.

The two student trustees, Allen Lewis Trodd and Cecilia Darling, were approved to attend the 2023 Board Council Conference taking place in Ottawa. This conference is held annually in February and includes sessions to help student trustees better understand their role. The breakout sessions allow student trustees to work with their designated board councils.

Trustee representation at the 2023 (PES), presented by (OPSBA) was discussed. NNDSB is limited in the number of trustees able to attend due to registration availability and cost. This is the first time the event’s been held in person since 2020.

The Board determined NNDSB would be represented by Erika Lougheed and Howard Wesley as the Chair and Vice-Chair. The PES takes place Jan. 26-28 in Toronto and is the premier professional development event for trustees. Other NNDSB trustees who want to attend are being waitlisted.

PES keynote speakers include Roda Muse, secretary general of the Canadian Commission for United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Chief Cadmus Delorme of Cowessess First Nation, and Nicholas A. Christakis of Yale University. Among the workshops trustees may select are rules of order and parliamentary procedure, resetting the curriculum through the prism of the Right to Read report, teachings from the land, online verification skills, equity, diversity and inclusion and solutions to address recruitment and retention of French teachers. There are also sessions about school board governance, a communications workshop for trustees and the role of OPSBA.

At the Board meeting, Chair Lougheed shared that trustees can look forward to a session being developed by the board’s Indigenous Education team. “It’s important that trustees understand the breadth and scope of Indigenous Education at NNDSB,” said Chair Lougheed. “The session will demonstrate how it connects with departments and the Board’s role in supporting Indigenous Education.”

As part of the on-boarding process for NNDSB trustees following the municipal election, Rusty Hick, the former executive director of OPSBA, provided trustees with effective school board governance training. He led the new Board through a session outlining the roles and responsibilities of trustees of Boards of Education and Directors of Education. Hick also covered the powers and duties found in the Education Act, including that Boards are explicitly required to promote student achievement, ensure effective stewardship of resources, and develop and maintain and monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of policies and structures.

Following the October election, trustees were also provided with an orientation binder that provided additional resources to deepen their understanding of NNDSB including documents such as the 2021-2026 Multi-Year Strategic Plan, NNDSB Governance Manual, trustee committee information and the .

At the monthly Board meetings, professional development is a standing agenda item, indicating the importance the board puts on trustees’ on-going learning.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Dear Parents and Guardians,

17�Թ��� (NNDSB) staff hopes everyone had a joyful holiday break. Best wishes to all for a happy and healthy 2023. We look forward to welcoming students and staff back to school on Monday, Jan. 9.

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The following information is shared from the program team:

K-12 Tutoring Supports:��Following two years of global learning disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ministry of Education introduced Ontario’s , which included funding to support the development of targeted tutoring support programs from September 2022 to March 31, 2023.

NNDSB utilized the project funding to initiate small group tutoring supports for students in Kindergarten to Grade 12. Tutoring programs are now available to students in all regions of the district and prioritize math, literacy and other foundational learning skills.��While delivery models vary from school to school, programs have been designed to address student needs and are based on an approach that emphasizes in-person learning yet leverages virtual models when necessary.

Please contact your child’s school to learn more about local tutoring opportunities.

TVO Mathify – FREE 1:1 Grade 4-12 math tutoring with Ontario Certified Teachers.��Online math tutoring with Ontario Certified Teachers in a safe and secure environment is available for students in Grades 4-12.��Supports include interactive math lessons and activities, personalized learning, an interactive whiteboard and an online portfolio for saved work and tutoring sessions. Mathify tutors are available from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Friday��and 3:30 to 9 p.m. on Sunday.

To register students, click the link on the Mathify page of the NNDSB site or select Mathify from the LMS (available via the parent portal).��A link is also available in Edsby’s Launchpad.��Students create a username, and password and select their grade, course and school board.��After registration, students can access Mathify from these same locations.��The LMS uses students’ NNDSB logins and saves having to remember another username/password.

Learning and Innovation Fund for Teachers (LIFT):��The Learning and Innovation Fund for Teachers (LIFT) is a Ministry-funded initiative designed to increase teacher learning and sharing of effective practices about targeted Ministry and board priorities to inspire changes in teacher practices and improve student learning and well-being.

NNDSB launched the 2022-23 LIFT application process in October. The initiative has been aligned with the school improvement planning process and has introduced an opportunity for school teams to determine a ministry/board/school priority to guide teacher inquiry and learning in response to student needs. Teams of interested teachers were invited to apply for funding to support innovative professional learning initiatives.

NNDSB celebrates the approval of 19 LIFT projects for the year 2022-23, the majority of which are focused on foundational math and literacy learning, involving educators from Kindergarten to Grade 12.

EQAO: Grade 9 Assessment of Mathematics, Semester 1: The administration window for the Grade 9 assessment of mathematics will open on Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2023. Students enrolled in a Grade 9 de-streamed mathematics course during Semester 1 will complete the assessment before Friday, Feb. 3, 2023. Assessment schedules will vary by school.

The allows students to become familiar with the online assessment and its platform. Students will be able to try out the various tools, including built-in text-to-speech audio, zoom in and zoom out, high contrast and highlighter, in the e-assessment platform.

During the assessment, students complete two sessions with four stages; the sample test consists of one session with two stages, and a total of 27 questions. This sample test also provides students with the opportunity to complete the various types of questions, including drag-and-drop, drop-down menu and single- and multiple-selection questions, that may be included on the assessment.

Click the link to learn more about .

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�����ٳ���’s Parent Involvement Committee (PIC) is pleased to present two sessions for families. Save the dates for these events; details, including links, will be available in upcoming monthly letters to families.

An equity and inclusion presentation will be held Wednesday, March 8 from��6:30-8 p.m. via Zoom.

The presentation will include a Near North equity update showcasing what NNDSB has been doing to support equity and inclusion in our schools and board. There will be a discussion on identity and anti-oppressive education and the importance of ensuring all students are accepted and have the support in place to succeed.

The second session is a bullying and prevention presentation on Wednesday, ��Feb. 8 from��6:30-8 p.m. via Zoom.

The Safe 17�Թ��� team is excited to provide parents and community members with an overview of bullying awareness and prevention initiatives, resources and supports. The presentation will start with an overview of information from��the Ministry of Education before highlighting board and school initiatives contained in the NNDBS Safe 17�Թ��� Framework. The presentation will conclude with resources available to students and parents.

We look forward to discussing bullying awareness and prevention with the parents and families of NNDSB!

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Seventeen Near North schools are participating in the Forest of Reading Program this year.��The Forest of Reading is Canada’s largest recreational reading program and��helps celebrate Canadian books, publishers, authors and illustrators.

The Forest of Reading Award Programs offers children and young adults the opportunity to vote for their favourite books. Readers choose a program that they would like to be a part of, usually based on their age or grade, and simply begin reading! Students are encouraged to read at least five of the 10 titles to be eligible to vote on their favourite book, but teachers and librarians make it possible for all to participate in the voting process which takes place in April.

This program encourages a lifelong love of reading and supports literacy in NNDSB classrooms and libraries.��The books have arrived and will be distributed to participating school libraries in the next week or two.

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In addition to staying informed via the board’s website, families can find NNDSB on , and .

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

NNDSB announces targeted tutoring support programs

At their meeting last night, trustees of 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) heard that the board is using provincial funding to initiate small group and individual tutoring supports for students in Kindergarten through Grade 12.

The funding is part of the Plan to Catch Up, a Ministry of Education initiative to close gaps caused by the disruptions of COVID-19. Funding will be in place until March 31, 2023. All NNDSB schools have been invited to access funding to either initiate or extend opportunities to engage students impacted by learning disruptions.

Board Chair Erika Lougheed says the three-pronged approach to tutoring means support can be provided to students in both panels all across the district. “This funding will enable staff to support even the youngest learners if they need extra help,” says the Chair.

Three approaches have been developed that will prioritize math, literacy and other foundational learning skills:

• NNDSB has recruited permanent and occasional educators to facilitate before- and after-school tutoring programs in all regions of the board. Research shows that additional time and support can help students learn what they need to be successful. The Teacher Tutors have participated in training sessions to develop instructional/intervention approaches in math and literacy. Tutoring will take place in person with virtual help available when necessary. The typical group size is two to five, although groups up to 12 may be accommodated, and individual tutoring is also possible
• The board has entered into a partnership with LEARNstyle to support struggling readers in Grades 7-10. The corrective reading program will help students who need support with decoding, fluency and comprehension. Students will meet one-on-one with reading intervention coaches and work through a set of lessons. Each student is assessed prior to beginning with corrective reading to allow for an individualized program
• �����ٳ���’s program staff have developed a plan to recruit, hire and train post-secondary Faculty of Education teacher candidates to work with students in small groups during the school day. In the 2021-2022 school year, 32 students in the Schulich School of Education at Nipissing University supported tutoring programs, and the board will work with faculty and staff to determine opportunities to continue post-secondary tutor recruitment.

The approaches support the board’s multi-year strategic plan pillar of excellence in teaching and learning, and �����ٳ���’s commitment to student achievement and well-being.

Director of Education Craig Myles says recruiting and training Nipissing students will provide valuable support to students while they’re at school supplementing the work of classroom teachers.

Board Vice-Chair Howard Wesley says the plan ensures that NNDSB students, regardless of geography, have access to tutoring supports to aid student success.

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Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The Ministry of Education has updated the to align with recommendations of the Chief Medical Officer of Health.

Please familiarize yourself with the new tool, and ensure that questions are answered before going to school or childcare every morning.

Anyone feeling sick or with any symptom of illness (even if not listed in the tool) should stay home that day.

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

Dear Parents and Guardians,��

This school year is moving along quickly, and this is the final monthly Letter to Families for the 2022 calendar year.

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There have been a few occurrences this school year of schools being placed on hold and secure and lockdown. It is vital that all stakeholders understand that these occurrences are placed in order to keep all safe; i.e. the plan is preventative, it is not necessarily a response to an imminent threat. Families are urged to familiarize themselves with school emergency procedures to understand when they are placed and why they are called.

Student and staff safety is a top priority and NNDSB will always take any and all precautions to ensure safety. The board’s Administrative Guideline Health and Safety: Emergency Response Plan outlines exactly what steps are to be taken to keep students and staff safe. This includes ongoing collaboration with community partners that includes reviewing and debriefing incidents, reviewing and revising current response plans and determining next steps to ensure the ongoing safety of students and staff at NNDSB schools.

Please understand that when an incident is underway or unfolding, the safety of your children is the top priority. We also want to be responsible and work with our community partners to make sure that the news we are sharing with families is accurate. NNDSB does not want to contribute to misinformation in the community.

Please speak with your child’s principal if you have questions or to receive more information about emergency preparedness plans for your school. Families that do not receive notifications from their schools and/or NNDSB may not have signed their Canadian Anti-Spam Legislation (CASL) form that comes home with students every fall. Because CASL applies to school boards, NNDSB is prevented from communicating with families without their written consent. Once schools receive a signed CASL form, a family’s contact information will be added to a database to receive email and/or telephone communications.

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We have been fortunate with only one inclement weather day so far this fall, but there will soon be more frequent weather-related cancellations of school transportation.��Families whose children take the bus to school should have plans in place for days when there is no transportation to school.

Transportation for 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) students is provided by Nipissing Parry Sound Student Transportation Services (NPSSTS), whose staff monitor the weather and make the decision whether to cancel buses. Cancellations are always made with safety as the top priority.

When buses are cancelled because of inclement weather, schools usually remain open. If schools remain open, students are encouraged to attend school using alternate transportation where possible; families are responsible for transportation to and from school if buses are not operating.

If weather or another event forces the closure of a school, there will not be transportation, nor will students be allowed in the building. In such cases, individual schools will be communicating directly with families.

When transportation is cancelled or schools are closed, families should look for communication from the school(s) regarding at-home work.

NPSSTS announces the cancellations of routes or corridors early in the morning. Families will find up-to-date information on NPSSTS’s , on �����ٳ���’s page and local radio stations announce cancellations.

For more information about transportation and inclement weather, visit �����ٳ���’s transportation page.

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The program team is happy to provide the following information and resources to NNDSB families:

Passport to Learning: We would like to ensure that all families are aware that a student’s @nearnorthschools.ca account is a passport to learning. When students or staff login to our board website using their NNDSB username and password, they have access to digital tools that enable productivity, communication, collaboration and creativity. The NNDSB Passport to Learning features many learning resources to enhance learning at school and at home including, hundreds of educational resources, free downloadable Microsoft 365 software, online subscriptions, encyclopedias, research archives and links to Ministry of education resources.

DreamBox Learning – Grade 1-3 Math: NNDSB is pleased to share that all students in Grades 1-3 classrooms have access to DreamBox Learning (DBL). ��DreamBox is a digital math program that combines a fun and engaging math learning environment with curriculum-focused outcomes. DreamBox lessons are interactive experiences that promote active learning and independent critical thinking and respond to each student’s strategies and decisions in the moment. Because DreamBox dynamically adapts lessons and learning paths based on the needs of each learner, students always have just the right level of support when and where they need it. Students are encouraged to continue their learning with this resource at home. To access DBL at home, students simply (using their NNDSB username and password). Click here to access additional information to support the use of DBL at home.

TVO Mathify – FREE 1:1 Grade 4-12 math tutoring with Ontario Certified Teachers! Families of students in Grades 4-12 have access to free online math tutoring with Ontario Certified Teachers in a safe and secure environment. Supports include interactive math lessons and activities, personalized learning, an interactive whiteboard and an online portfolio for saved work and tutoring sessions. Mathify tutors are available from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m Monday to Friday and3:30 to 9 p.m. on Sunday.

To register students, click the link on the Mathify page of the NNDSB site or select Mathify from the LMS. A link is also available in Edsby’s Launchpad. Students create a username, password and select their grade, course and school board. After registration, students can access Mathify from these same locations. The LMS uses students’ NNDSB login and saves having to remember another username/password.

Literacy Learning: There is much to celebrate in literacy learning in NNDSB. The board has invested in exciting new resources like Acadience screening tools, the Flyleaf reading program and Lexia PowerUP, plus a variety of skill development resources. Acadience screenings ensure educators know what core literacy skills a student has mastered and what skills are still being developed.

Flyleaf decodable books and instructional resources support the development of core literacy skills in K-3 classrooms. Lexia PowerUp provides literacy instruction and activities for students in Grades 7-10 through a focus on word study, grammar and comprehension skill building.

Students are engaged in literacy activities that are based in skill building from recognizing letter sounds to word building in a myriad of ways.

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The Medical Officer of Health of the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit, Dr. James Chirico, has provided a letter of support to 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) and requested that it be shared with our school families.

The letter includes attachments from the Chief Medical Officer of Health for Ontario, in which the use of masks indoors is strongly encouraged. Dr. Chirico notes the local health unit is seeing emergency department visits for flu-like illnesses at twice the pre-pandemic three-year average for this time of year.

Dr. Chirico is urging NNDSB families to practice the following infection control measures to fight the respiratory illnesses of COVID-19, influenza and Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) that are resulting in emergency department visits:

• wear a well-fitting mask in indoor public spaces
• stay home when sick
• practice good hand hygiene
• frequently clean high-contact surfaces

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Director of Education Craig Myles extends holiday greetings to all students, staff and families.

As we head into the final weeks of 2022, Director Myles thanks all students, staff and families for their perseverance over the past years of the pandemic, and appreciates their efforts in keeping NNDSB schools safe and members of our school communities healthy.

The Director hopes students, staff and families take time to enjoy what is important to them over the break, and wishes all a safe and happy holiday.

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In addition to staying informed via the board’s website, families can find NNDSB on , and .

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

NNDSB student trustee set to dance on the world stage

17�Թ��� (NNDSB) Student Trustee Cecilia Darling has been dancing since the age of three and will soon have the opportunity to exhibit her talent on the world stage.

Darling will represent Canada this week as part of the national team at the World Dance Championship in Slovenia.

Darling said she was shocked when she learned she was selected for the national team, having entered the tryouts just for fun and experience.

“I decided to try out for the team because I thought that it was an exciting opportunity to explore dance at the international level and be able to perform in a whole new setting,” Darling said. “When I heard I was on the team, I had the realization that my dance journey was being expanded in a way that I hadn’t thought possible, and I was very excited about the experience to come.”

Darling is not new to high-level competition. As a member of the competitive team at BTS Corp. in North Bay, she competes regionally multiple times a year and has had the opportunity to compete nationally three times.

“Initially, I was put into dance when I was three years old by my parents, but it was my love of movement, music and performing that truly started me on this dance journey,” Darling said. “I love performing and always having a goal to work towards, whether it be a technique in a class or an accomplishment at a competition. There is nothing better than the feeling of dancing on stage and then coming off, knowing that you have given it your all.”

In preparation for the World Dance Championship, Darling has been working hard at choreography and weekly rehearsals through the summer and fall. In addition to regular dance classes at her home studio, Darling travels to Waterdown and Newmarket every weekend to rehearse with the team.

Darling will be competing in three styles of dance; jazz, contemporary, and ballet with solos in jazz and pointe which are her favourite styles. There will be 21 countries represented at the World Dance Championship. Darling will compete against 28 other dancers in the jazz solo category.

“At this competition, each dance will compete in a large category against dancers from across the world. If you perform well in the first round you will advance to the semi-finals and then the finals where medals will be awarded to the top three,” Darling said. “When we first arrive, we have a day to rehearse and then competition will begin. I will be dancing for the majority of the days of the competition.”

Darling says there is more to dancing than just the movements. It can provide so many benefits, from discipline to confidence, and perseverance. She recommends young dancers just “put themselves out there and follow what they love.

“Performing and competing can make people nervous but it is the sense of achievement and satisfaction that it brings that makes it worth it. If you love it, it is worth the time and hard work,” Darling said.

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For more information, please contact:

Brett Hanson
Communications Coordinator
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5083
E. Brett.Hanson@nearnorthschools.ca

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The Government of Ontario has confirmed that a tentative agreement has been reached with the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) and CUPE members will be at work as of Nov. 21, 2022.

17�Թ��� schools will be open effective Nov. 21, 2022, and regular transportation will be in place.

Community Use of 17�Թ��� will also resume on Monday, Nov. 21, 2022.

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,
17�Թ���

Dear Parents and Guardians,

This message is to advise you of two educational opportunities that 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) is providing to families.

Mental health and SNAP – Nov. 16 at 6:30 p.m.

The board’s Parent Involvement Committee (PIC) is hosting Part 1 of its speaker series for parents on Wednesday, Nov. 16 at 6:30 p.m. This session will give an overview of �����ٳ���’s mental health supports, including the SNAPÒ 17�Թ��� pilot. SNAP helps participants develop skills to promote a positive change in behaviour when managing anger, peer pressure and dealing with bullying. Learn more and find meeting details in this poster.

Preventing online sexual exploitation – Nov. 23 at 7 p.m.

As part of the board’s Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week, NNDSB is holding an online presentation on Wednesday, Nov. 23 at 7 p.m. Called Online Risks and Emerging Trends, the session is presented in tandem with �����ٳ���’s partner, the Canadian Centre for Child Protection (C3P). The evening consists of a video and information and resources about preventing online sexual exploitation of children and keeping children safe. There will be a live question-and-answer period. This session reflects the newest issues facing youth, and is designed for families of children aged 8-17). Please see this poster for more information and to register for the presentation.

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The Government of Ontario has confirmed that Bill 28 – Keeping Students in Class Act will be rescinded. The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) has confirmed that protests will end, and CUPE members will be back to work as of Nov. 8, 2022.

CUPE remains in a position to strike with the five-day notice period still required as per the Labour Relations Act Ontario.

17�Թ��� will be reopening all schools effective Nov. 8, 2022, and regular transportation will be in place.

Community Use of 17�Թ��� will resume on Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2022, giving custodians a day to prepare facilities.

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

Dear Parents and Guardians;

In addition to following the status of the labour disruption involving Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) has been in regular contact with our open schools, evaluating the feasibility of maintaining in-person learning.

After communicating with principals and vice-principals and consulting with the board’s facilities department, NNDSB has determined it is unable to meet the health and safety requirements for all students while the services of CUPE members are withdrawn.

All NNDSB schools will be closed to in-person learning as of Monday, Nov. 7, 2022, except special education classes in secondary schools that were open Friday, Nov. 4, 2022 (Parry Sound High School, Almaguin Highlands Secondary School, West Ferris Secondary School, Chippewa Secondary School). We are sending this message out as early as possible so families may make arrangements for alternative childcare.

In order to support its highest needs students, NNDSB will make efforts to re-open elementary special education classes beginning Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2022, with more information to come from these schools on Monday, Nov. 7, 2022.

17�Թ��� will communicate on Monday, Nov. 7, 2022 about at-home learning for students, and how families can support their child(ren).

�����ٳ���’s website has a new icon that directs families and stakeholders to a labour disruptions news page. It includes resources to support families and all communications that have been issued related to the disruption.

Should the labour disruption be settled over the weekend, additional information will be sent to families.

We understand this labour action is challenging to families and appreciate your understanding as we navigate it together.

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

New EQAO assessments, reporting tools will inform efforts to close learning gaps, strengthen literacy and math skills

The Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) has released the results of the Grades 3 and 6 assessments of reading, writing and mathematics as well as the Grade 9 mathematics and Grade 10 Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT).

The 2021–2022 school year marked a return to EQAO’s provincial assessment administrations, which had been paused for the prior two years. For the first time, 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) students completed the new digitalized and modernized EQAO assessments. As per the Ministry of Education direction, students learning in person (and students learning remotely who wrote in person) participated in the assessments in the 2021–2022 school year.

“We wish to recognize the effort that our staff and students have put forth and the resilience they have shown throughout the COVID-19 disruptions to learning. As we work collaboratively to support learning recovery and renewal, the information generated from the EQAO assessments will help to inform our next steps at the system, school and classroom level,” said Superintendent of Teaching and Learning Melanie Gray.

The impact of the pandemic is being observed in early literacy and math achievement across grades and these results are consistent with trends that have been observed across our region and the province. The 2021-2022 EQAO results will help our board identify the areas that students need support, to ensure they catch up and are able to achieve future success.

The results will help establish a new baseline that captures the impacts of the pandemic and improvements to Ontario’s education system that have occurred since the last time the tests were administered.��The 2021-2022 NNDSB results reveal an increase in the percentage of students who were successful in the OSSLT and indicate some positive outcomes in the area of Grade 6 reading and writing. Performance in math across all divisions and reading and writing in Grade 3 will continue to be a system-wide focus as we work to help our students overcome the COVID-19 disruptions to learning.

Reading and Writing

Grades 3 and 6: While results vary by school, the overall trends showed a decline in Grade 3 reading and writing achievement when compared to pre-pandemic measures. However, Grade 6 scores demonstrated positive results in both reading and writing.

• Grade 3: In 2021-2022, 62.4 per cent of Grade 3 students met the provincial standard in reading and 45 per cent of Grade 3 students met the provincial standard in writing.
• Grade 6: In 2021-2022, 79.4 per cent of Grade 6 students met the provincial standard in reading and 72.6 per cent of Grade 6 students met the provincial standard in writing

Grade 10: The Grade 10 literacy test is a compulsory standardized test for all secondary school students in Ontario wishing to obtain an Ontario Secondary School Diploma. The test is based on all of the reading and writing expectations in all subjects up to the end of Grade 9. In 2021-2022, 91 per cent of first-time eligible students participated in the OSSLT��and 71 per cent of them were successful.

Mathematics

Grades 3 and 6: Improving mathematics results for both primary and junior divisions will continue to be a focus for learning recovery and renewal efforts. This year, board math facilitators and school-based math facilitators have been assigned to support classroom-embedded professional learning and implement high-impact instructional practices to improve outcomes in mathematics. The district continues to work in partnership with lead educators and communities to develop responsive approaches to mathematics learning and to create engaging learning environments that will lead to improved performance for all students. In 2021-2022, 42.2 per cent of Grade 3 students and 27 per cent of Grade 6 students met the provincial standard in the EQAO mathematics assessments.

Grade 9: In 2021-2022, a new universal and de-streamed secondary mathematics curriculum was introduced. The Grade 9 EQAO assessment is now a computer-based, adaptive assessment that measures the mathematics skills students are expected to have learned by the end of the Grade 9 mathematics course. Thirty-four per cent of students who wrote the Grade 9 de-streamed math test met the provincial standard in 2021-2022.

EQAO results are just one of many assessment tools that both schools and boards use to measure and improve upon the quality of student programming and student success.��The new modernized, digital assessments and reporting tools will inform efforts to close gaps in learning and strengthen literacy and math skills.

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Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The monthly Letter to Families, distributed on the first Friday of the month, is intended to keep you apprised of news that affects all students and families of 17�Թ��� (NNDSB).

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NNDSB is proud to offer all parents the ability to access their child’s report cards via Edsby. This pertains to all elementary and secondary reporting, including the elementary progress reports (Grades 1-8) and the initial observations of learning reports (kindergarten), which will be available to parents after 2 p.m. on Nov. 16, 2022.

Please be aware that as schools work to get these reports online, there may be a slight delay. If you do not see your child’s report by Nov. 17, please reach out to your school. If you have not yet logged into Edsby or created an account, please visit this page of �����ٳ���’s website that explains how to create an account and login.

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Municipal elections were held Monday, Oct. 24, which included the positions of school board trustees.

NNDSB is still awaiting the name of an appointee, and until all trustees have been determined, will not be publishing the names of the 2022-2026 Board members.

The Board’s inaugural meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 15 at 6:30 p.m. As a reminder, NNDSB Board meetings are open to the public and are usually held on the second Tuesday of each month. Agenda packages are posted to the website two days in advance of the meeting.

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The Ministry of Education made an announcement late last month that outlined more action in its , including Catch Up payments for families.

Families are being provided with up to $250 per child to help offset costs for additional tutoring supports, supplies or equipment to enhance student learning. The will be open until March 31, 2023.

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School Mental Health (SMH) Ontario is a provincial implementation support team that helps school districts enhance student mental health through the use of evidence-based strategies and services.

SMH provides leadership and coaching for educators and school/system leaders, as well as mental health awareness for parents and families, and a platform for student voice and leadership in school mental health.

The organization is seeking applicants to its parent/caregiver collaboration group. This group will share thoughts on what children need in order to thrive and the types of tools, education and supports parents and caregivers want to support their children’s mental health.

More information about the parent and caregiver collaboration group can be found , and this is the .

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NNDSB is the first school board in Canada to have all their schools sign up for the 2022 .

I Read Canadian Day is an initiative that celebrates the richness, diversity and breadth of Canadian literature. Taking place for the third year on Nov. 2, 2022, this celebration empowers families, schools, libraries, bookstores and organizations to host activities and events by reading Canadian books for just 15 minutes.

Award-winning Canadian author Eric Walters was so impressed, he took to social media and challenged other Canadian school boards to follow. He said, “The 17�Թ��� has EVERY school signed up for I Read Canadian Day on November 2! How about some other boards matching?” ~ Eric Walters

Congratulations to all involved for participating in this wonderful investigation into Canadian literature.

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NNDSB has several procedures that keep students and staff safe during events that take place inside and outside of schools. Frequently news stories and social media posts will refer to students being “in lockdown”, when in fact they are in a hold and secure.

This poster will explain to families the differences between a lockdown and a hold and secure. It outlines the reasons for which one may be called, and what happens at the school. Very often, a hold and secure is called when there is a medical situation at a school; a hold and secure keeps the hallways clear so first responders have clear access to the person and protects the dignity and privacy of the person during transport.

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The board partners with outside organizations – YES Canada and MLI Homestay – to bring international secondary school students to NNDSB.

MLI currently has an urgent need for a homestay family in North Bay for a female Japanese student who is attending Chippewa Secondary School until June 2023. Compensation is provided to assist with expenses.

During their stay, students live with a local family and experience daily life in Canada while developing their English language skills through this immersion experience.

To learn more, contact Kayla at kknight@mlihomestay.com or call 587-222-7172 or visit .

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Regarding COVID-19 management, board facilities remain working under provincial direction without any additional measures put in place by the local health unit. It is recommended that all staff and students daily before they attend school and stay home if they are feeling unwell.

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In addition to staying informed via the board’s website, families can find NNDSB on , and .

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As noted in our letter of Monday, Oct. 31, 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) has been planning for any labour disruptions resulting from the provincial negotiations with the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE).

CUPE has announced that its members may not be at work on Friday, Nov. 4.

In NNDSB, CUPE represents school secretaries, custodial and maintenance staff, IT technicians, library technicians, as well as some finance and board support staff.

NNDSB is endeavouring to provide continuity of learning for students but must keep staff and student safety and well-being as a priority. After contingency planning, it has been determined that should the CUPE day of protest occur, some NNDSB elementary schools will remain open, some elementary and secondary schools will be closed to all students, and some secondary schools will only open for students attending self-contained special education classrooms.

Each school will be sending a communication to their families regarding the school’s status for Friday, Nov. 4.

Each school board in the province has varying employee groups represented by CUPE, so every board must make contingency plans based on their own circumstances. This is why you have heard of board-wide closures, while NNDSB is in the position to keep some schools and classrooms open.

If your child(ren) attends childcare in NNDSB schools, please contact your childcare provider for details on whether they will be open or closed on Friday.

All community use of schools permits will be suspended as of Friday, Nov. 4 until further notice. NNDSB does not have the capacity to maintain safe conditions for permit holders.

The status of negotiations is fluid, with on-going developments. We understand that this situation is challenging and requires that families also have contingency plans. The board appreciates your patience and understanding as we navigate this together.

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

Dear Parents and Guardians;

17�Թ��� (NNDSB) continues to monitor the provincial labour negotiations closely.

In NNDSB, Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) represents school secretaries,��custodial and maintenance staff, IT technicians, library technicians, as well as some finance and board support staff.

We highly value the service of CUPE workers ​but note that��negotiations are��​currently��a provincial matter.

The board has been contingency planning to maintain the continuity of learning for students and, where possible,��to try to keep schools open. We will endeavour to share information in a timely manner, recognizing that the current labour environment changes quickly and frequently.

Families will find updates on the board’s website and can find NNDSB on ��, and .

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

Board Highlights – Oct. 11, 2022 meeting

The following are the highlights of the 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) meeting of Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2022.

Anna Pearson acknowledged for teaching excellence

Anna Pearson, a Grade 6 French Immersion teacher at Sunset Park Public School, was acknowledged at the Board meeting for being a recipient of the Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence.

Pearson uses a variety of teaching methods to encourage and empower students learning in French, by linking their experiences as French speakers through music, film, field trips and guest speakers. She is also committed to teaching her students about social justice, linking her teaching to current events and difficult subjects. Pearson’s work and its recognition exemplify �����ٳ���’s commitment to excellence in teaching and learning.

NNDSB issued a media release about the achievement.

Board receives mental health report��

The Board received a report outlining �����ٳ���’s three-year mental health and wellness strategy. The report follows stakeholder consultation and aligns with the board’s multi-year strategic plan (MYSP).

The following six value statements are key to �����ٳ���’s mental health and addictions strategy: collaboration with families; evidence-based outcome-informed approaches; community partnerships; equity in our diverse educational community and being accountable for the success and well-being of all; student voice to inform and guide our work; our staff, who play a vital role in promoting and supporting mental health.

The plan will be in effect until it is renewed and revised in the fall of 2025.

Here is a link to the report, which was part of the agenda package.

Trustees receive board improvement plan report��

The Board improvement plan for student achievement and well-being was presented to trustees. The plan explains how the four priorities of the MYSP (excellence in communication, excellence in relationships, excellence in teaching and learning and excellence in innovation) act as a guide in achieving the Ministry of Education’s core purpose of student achievement in literacy and mathematics and ensuring equity and well-being.

The board improvement plan details how a six-week cycle of plan, act, observe and reflect will be implemented to ensure alignment and consistency across all departments and schools.

The full report can be found here.

Director Myles provides report to Board

Director of Education Craig Myles’ report to the Board featured several pieces of good news.

This month’s report featured data to support the board’s commitment to excellence in communications. Analytics shows that the board’s social media platforms are steadily gaining new followers, and approximately 10 administrative guidelines have been revised and/or consolidated in the past year.

The app development cooperative education program that took place in the summer has resulted in paid employment for an NNDSB student. One of the summer students who developed a mobile app was offered a part-time position as a junior programmer. The student’s parent says the employer was impressed with the student’s knowledge and abilities with Swift and other coding languages.

The board’s environmental committee says the EcoSchool’s platform will be rolled out to schools this month. Staff and students will have the opportunity to learn how practices can reduce their environmental footprints and how their initiatives can work towards achieving the EcoSchool certification of environmental excellence.

NNDSB is proud of its partnership with the North Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre to see the grand opening of the Nizhwaas Asiniik Skoonweh Kahn (Seven Stones Learning Centre). The centre supports Indigenous adult learners in earning their Ontario Secondary School Diplomas with a cultural and decolonized approach.

�����ٳ���’s first Hockey Skills program has begun in partnership with Hockey Skills Canada and the Town of Parry Sound. The program will run at Parry Sound High School in semester one and Humphrey Public School in partnership with Seguin Township in semester two.

Notices of Motion filed for follow-up reports

Vice-Chair John Cochrane, First Nations Trustee Nichole King and Trustee Caren Gagne each filed a notice of motion at the committee-of-the-whole meeting, which was moved and passed at the Board meeting.

Vice-Chair Cochrane requested a thorough report regarding information received by the board from the Town of Parry Sound regarding the area’s population and the impact of population on the JK-12 build. Vice-Chair Cochrane also wanted misinformation about municipal funding clarified in the report.

Trustee King’s notice of motion was for an updated report about the actions taken and next steps in the healing process following damage to the Shapatuan at Parry Sound High School. Trustee King sought follow-up on the board’s commitment to strengthen relationships and support the healing process for students.

Trustee Gagne requested the board write a letter to the Ministry of Education advocating for a stronger commitment to student transportation supports. School transportation challenges are being felt across the province, and Trustee Gagne said the cancellations are particularly disruptive in her area.

Multi-Year Strat Plan Committee report

As the board enters its second year of the 2021-2026 MYSP, the committee has set its sights on evaluating the plan. The MYSP committee will bring a report to the Board quarterly and will provide a data report at the January and June 2023 meetings that showcase the progress/growth. Further data will be highlighted in the Director’s monthly update to trustees.

Board receives update on Dreamcoat agreement conclusion

NNDSB trustees received a report regarding administration’s decision to accept the conclusion of the agreement with Dreamcoat Fantasy Theatre (DFT). Following the expiration of the agreement in 2018, DTF has been asked to remove its items from storage at West Ferris Secondary School, as the space is required for NNDSB programming and instructional needs.

During the committee-of-the-whole meeting, members of the community expressed interest in providing input regarding future opportunities for DFT to access space with NNDSB. The Board of Trustees voted in favour of hosting a community meeting to welcome broader public input.

Chair lauded trustees for service to education

Board Chair Jay Aspin acknowledged that the Oct. 11 meeting was the last scheduled of the term for this Board. In his remarks, he outlined the many significant accomplishments implemented during the term.

He said he was proud and privileged to be part of the team that accomplished so much since its first meeting in 2018 during a very disruptive pandemic. He stated our board has been elevated to a Board that is well respected in the province.

He acknowledged Trustees Donna Breault, Rob Learn and Al Bottomley, who are not seeking re-election. Chair Aspin thanked them for their time and efforts in public service and students’ education.

School board trustees will be elected in the Oct. 24 municipal election.

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Note: the full agenda package is posted on the website prior to meetings, and official minutes are posted after they are approved at the next board meeting.

For more information, please contact:
Deb Bartlett (she/her)
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170 ext. 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Before-school childcare program opens at Mapleridge PS

17�Թ��� (NNDSB) is pleased to announce that a new before-school childcare program has opened at Mapleridge Public School in Powassan for the 2022-2023 school year.

Currently, the District of Parry Sound Social Services Administration Board (PSDSSAB) operates an��after-school program��for school-aged children at Mapleridge.��“We are pleased to be piloting this expansion of our School-Age Program in Powassan to include before-school care for children ages 4-12 starting at 7:30 a.m.,” said Brenda Wiltshire, manager of directly operated childcare programs for the PSDSSAB.

�����ٳ���’s Superintendent of Early Years, Gay Smylie added, “NNDSB values its strong partnership with PSDSSAB as we work together to provide services that benefit children and their families. We are so fortunate to expand the program to provide care for children before the school day starts. This takes the pressure off families that need to get to work but also ensure their children are cared for before the school day starts.”

This expansion was a result of data obtained in the annual childcare viability survey, which is supported by the Nipissing and Parry Sound Social Services Administration Boards. Due to an increase in need for before-school care, the Parry Sound DSSAB was willing to expand its current offering at Mapleridge. This is wonderful news for the families of Powassan and surrounding area and for students who will now experience one less transition in their school day.

Families wishing to register for the program can contact the Parry Sound DSSAB office at 1-800-661-3230.

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For more information, please contact
Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Vice-Chair Cochrane moves to correct misinformation about funding allocation in Parry Sound

17�Թ��� (NNDSB)’s Vice-Chair John Cochrane brought forward a notice of motion that aims to correct misinformation circulating about the new JK-12 school and allocation of spending in Parry Sound.

The Vice-Chair is the Zone 4 Trustee for Parry Sound and filed the notice of motion in response to a letter to the Board and a meeting he was invited to attend. The letter, from the Town of Parry Sound, expressed concerns about the area’s potential population growth and council’s desire for another accommodation review around the new Parry Sound JK-12 school.

Board Chair Jay Aspin said, “Our Vice-Chair has been the model of integrity, transparency and solid initiatives towards the betterment of our students, particularly in the Parry Sound area he represents. It is not surprising that he is requesting this report as he has indicated that it is��important that all stakeholders in that region be provided with accurate information regarding our board’s operations. Our Board takes very seriously the provision of correct information or the correction of misinformation��which may impact our students negatively.”

Vice-Chair Cochrane wanted to act quickly on behalf of his constituents and bring the matter to the Board. He requested that a report be researched and written, presented to the Board in open session and made available to the public, consistent with the Board’s commitments to accountability and transparency.

“It’s important to me that constituents know NNDSB is willing to work with all levels of government,” said Vice-Chair Cochrane. “NNDSB wants what is best for students, and that is to get an education in Parry Sound that prepares students for the future.”

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Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

To 17�Թ��� families, staff, and community partners,

Today is National Truth and Reconciliation Day; it is recognized throughout the lands now known as Canada to further acknowledge the truths of our shared history. We wear orange today to commemorate the survivors and lost children of residential schools and bring further awareness to the history and legacies of the residential school system.

Indigenous traditional teachings speak loudly to our connection to each other. We are reminded by Indigenous Peoples that our collective commitment to living in the best way involves thinking seven generations into the future. We are further reminded how we can continue our path towards reconciliation every day in meaningful and authentic ways, learning in truth, together.

17�Թ��� (NNDSB) is grateful to continue to learn from Indigenous students, staff, and community.��We value and are committed to our shared path to further support learning and understanding around colonization and its continuing effects on Indigenous Peoples. With reconciliation comes action.

As we mourn the children whose lives were taken, remember the survivors, and acknowledge the legacy of these schools, we renew our commitment to our role in Truth and Reconciliation.

The board supports all students, staff, and community members in learning about the truth and devastating legacy caused by residential schools. We wear our orange shirts to show our commitment to reconciliation, and trust that our schools will provide education that is relevant and meaningful to their communities.

NNDSB is committed to ensuring that the board, its schools, and staff are actively engaged in responding to the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action, specifically 62 and ��63.

Sincerely,

Jay Aspin�� �� �� �� �� �� �� �� �� �� �� �� Craig Myles
Chair of the Board�� �� �� �� Director of Education

Board Highlights – Sept. 13, 2022 meeting

The following are the highlights of the 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) meeting of Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022.

Elder McQuabbie provides opening prayer

Elder Wanda McQuabbie of Henvey Inlet First Nation offered the opening prayer of Tuesday’s Board meeting, the first of the 2022-2023 school year.

In addition to being a traditional knowledge keeper, Ms. McQuabbie is an Anishinaabemowin (Ojibwe language) teacher for NNDSB at Britt Public School. She expressed her appreciation for being at the meeting. She spoke about her gratitude for the inclusive culture that lives in Near North schools and how important it is for Indigenous students to be “seen and acknowledged” in Near North schools.

Director of Education Craig Myles said he was encouraged to hear Elder McQuabbie’s comments that speak to �����ٳ���’s inclusive culture that acknowledges and honours the voices of Indigenous students and works to share those voices with all students and staff.

Student Trustees sworn in for second term

�����ٳ���’s two student trustees were sworn in at Tuesday’s meeting as they committed to serving a second term at the Board table.

Cecilia Darling, a Grade 12 student at Almaguin Highlands Secondary School, swore her oath as the Student Trustee. Later in the meeting, she gave her report, which included an extensive list of back-to-school activities and fundraisers taking place in the first two weeks of school.

Indigenous Student Trustee Allen Lewis Trodd is also returning for a second term with the Board. The Grade 12 student at Parry Sound High School swore an oath at the beginning of the meeting, and later gave his report about the latest meeting status of the Indigenous Youth Circle. The group is scheduled to meet next at Almaguin Highlands Secondary School.

Board sets 2022-2023 meeting schedule

The Board received the 2022-2023 meeting schedule. Trustees meet on the second Tuesday of the month from September through June. The next meeting will be Tuesday, Oct. 11, the last one before the municipal election Monday, Oct. 24.

The inaugural meeting of the new Board of Trustees will be held Nov. 15.

Largest number of students attended summer school

Superintendent of Teaching and Learning Melanie Gray provided a report to the Board that outlined the very successful summer learning program offered by NNDSB.

More than 60 staff were hired to provide education to 576 students from NNDSB and across the province. The summer learning program theme was celebrate, experience, plan, which allowed students to celebrate their prior learning, experience new opportunities and plan for their futures.

The number of students was greater than last year, with the largest increase (220 per cent) in co-operative education.

Among the experiences provided through the power learning program (literacy focus for students in Grades 1-4 and math focus for students in Grades 5-8) were: books donated though Nipissing University’s Books for Brook initiative; guests from the Friendship Centre who shared Indigenous teachings and traditions; staff from fire departments and construction-related fields speaking about their careers; and Science North scientists participating in Ask a Scientist sessions. All camps incorporated outdoor play and promoted positive social interaction.

With funding support from the NNDSB Board of Trustees, NNDSB also launched its first Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) camp this summer. The three-week camp for students in Grades 7-10 involved hands-on problem-solving while working on foundational literacy and numeracy skills. The students interacted with 3D printers, drones, coding and robotics.

COVID-19 management discussed

The Board was updated on how COVID-19 is being managed by NNDSB in schools.

The board is following the guidance of the Ministry of Education, and no additional local measures have been put into place by the Nipissing Parry Sound District Health Unit at the start of the 2022-2023 school year.

All staff, students and visitors are encouraged to daily before attending school. Masks are not required and will be provided at school for students staff and visitors who choose to wear them.

17�Թ��� are permitted to run clubs, activities, sports teams, bands and other extracurricular activities. Field trips will also be permitted, and schools will be available for community use.

Safe schools report presented to Board

Following several violent incidents in the United States last year, Vice-Chair John Cochrane requested a report that outlined the initiatives that keep NNDSB students and staff safe.

A report was provided that outlines the three pillars of the safe schools framework (citizenship and community, conflict resolution, and bullying awareness) and the initiatives that fall under each of the pillars.

The report outlined the board’s partnerships, initiative and pilot projects that all work in tandem to help provide inclusive, welcoming places for NNDSB students to learn. A media release has been issued on the report.

“This is just another example of how the work of the multi-year strategic plan all focuses on student achievement and well-being,” said Director Myles. “Our team and our partners all work together to educate staff and students to help keep them safe.”

Report from the Director of Education

Myles had a lengthy report to the Board.

He thanked executive council and staff for their efforts in getting the board’s facilities prepared for the start of a new school year, taking place predominantly in-person. He noted that NNDSB staff have built momentum as they work towards the four priorities of the multi-year strategic plan (MYSP) – excellence in communication, excellence in teaching and learning, excellence in relationships and excellence in innovation.

Myles also reviewed the leadership framework that will manage succession planning and retention strategies that will continue to build leadership capacity in the board. The framework provides current leaders enrichment opportunities and future leaders a foundation built upon learning and collaboration.

As part of his monthly report, Myles will be sharing data that illustrates the work being done in the strategic priority areas. This month, growth in excellence in innovation was shown by noting that NNDSB has exceeded its planned participation rate in the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) by 16 per cent. Seven per cent of �����ٳ���’s Grade 11 and 12 students participate in the program, where the provincial average is 4.3 per cent.�� In excellence in relationships, the Director reported that 100 per cent of the 24 personal support worker (PSW) grads who are �����ٳ���’s first cohort have been hired, answering a critical community need. The administrator of one of the training sites, Belvedere Heights, spoke highly of the living classroom model for educating the students. Courses are running in Parry Sound, North Bay and now Mattawa, and intake is underway for the next PSW course starting in February 2023.

Trustees, senior staff attend sharing circle

Both Myles and Chair Jay Aspin noted in their remarks their gratitude to attend the sharing circle hosted by Wasauksing First Nation. The sharing circle supports nurturing relationships following the damage of the Shaptotaun at Parry Sound High School this spring.

Aspin said he found the sharing circle “really moving” and was proud of the work of First Nations Trustee Nichole King to bring the board together with First Nations rightsholders to continue building relationships. These sentiments were echoed by Myles.

“Participating in the sharing circle gave us the opportunity to reflect on the importance of relationships to Indigenous Peoples and how we can continue to take action keeping ��spaces safe and welcoming for youth and their communities.”

First Nations Trustee King said, “Our Board has a responsibility to our students to provide an inclusive and safe learning environment. Working together with our communities and bringing their voices forward will elevate the programs and services we can offer to First Nations students. We can do better, and this circle was a good start. I see the dedication of Board leadership in strengthening relations with our First Nations communities and I hope these relationships continue to strengthen moving forward.”

Trustees agree to adhere to Code of Conduct

As part of its commitment to good governance, a governance manual and code of conduct for trustees was developed in 2020. Annually, trustees must review the documents and agree to adhere to the code of conduct. Trustees did this at Tuesday’s meeting.

Trustees also voted to approve the development of governance policies regarding student trustees and trustee social media etiquette. Drafts are currently posted on the board’s website for public consultation.

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Note: the full agenda package is posted on the website prior to meetings, and official minutes are posted after they are approved at the next board meeting.

For more information, please contact:
Deb Bartlett (she/her)
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170 ext. 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Trustees resume meetings but work didn’t take a vacation

Trustees of 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) met Tuesday night for the first time since their June meeting, but the work of the board did not take a summer break.

Trustees received reports about summer learning, safety and well-being initiatives and updating school administration teams on how COVID-19 is being managed at the start of the 2022-2023 school year.

Throughout the summer, more than 60 summer staff members supported 576 students who experienced new opportunities and planned for their future by earning credits at summer school. Details about the summer learning program may be found in this media release. The number of students was greater than last year, and the largest increase was in the co-operative education program, which saw a 220 per cent increase in students. A new initiative enabled two students to develop and market a mobile app.

Despite a more “normal” feel to the start of the school year, NNDSB staff continue to navigate work in the face of COVID-19. The board follows the guidance of the Ministry of Education without additional local measures. All staff, students and visitors are asked to daily before attending a NNDSB building. Extracurricular clubs, activities and sports are permitted, as are field trips. The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit is available as a support to school teams and community members.

Through the summer, board staff prepared for in-class learners, as well as those who are returning to school virtually. As of Sept. 2, there were 63 elementary and 51 secondary students registered at the virtual school, which also started Sept. 6.

In response to a trustee request, a safe schools report was compiled and presented, outlining all of the programs, partnerships and pilots that help to keep NNDSB students and staff safe. The report highlights the three pillars of the safe schools framework (citizenship and community, conflict resolution and bullying awareness) that work in tandem to support student achievement and well-being, the focus of the board’s multi-year strategic plan.

The first class of NNDSB personal support worker (PSW) students graduated last month, with 100 per cent of the grads securing employment. The 24 students are already filling labour gaps in their communities. Some are hired by the long-term care homes in which their living classrooms were located, and others are working for community organizations. The second cohort of PSW students has just begun its��courses in Parry Sound, North Bay and Mattawa, and intake is underway for the courses that begin in February.

Capital projects also continued throughout the summer. Updates were provided on modifications to Chippewa and West Ferris following consolidation of the North Bay secondary schools.

The new Parry Sound school build committee, chaired by Board Vice-Chair John Cochrane, continues its work on the K-12 school, with its planned opening September 2024. Board Chair Jay Aspin met over the summer with MPPs Graydon Smith and Vic Fedeli to discuss several topics, including the Parry Sound build and the opportunities that the new school will provide for students.

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Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Partnerships, training, data and pilot programs contribute

to keep NNDSB schools safe for students and staff

Safe, welcoming and accepting learning environments are built, they don’t just exist. A report that was requested by 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) Vice-Chair John Cochrane has been completed and was presented to the Board at last night’s meeting, detailing a wide range of programs, initiatives and partnerships that contribute to safer schools in which students can thrive.

Vice-Chair Cochrane requested the report in the spring, after multiple violent incidents at schools in the United States.

Presented by Superintendent Gay Smylie, the report outlined the safe school framework that creates safer learning spaces for students. The three pillars under which programs and initiatives fall are citizenship and community, conflict resolution and bullying awareness.

Board Chair Jay Aspin said, “In view of serious incidents in today’s society, particularly at schools in the United States, we must be diligent in ensuring the safety and well-being of students in our schools. I am confident – by the amount of care, consideration and effort toward this goal – that this is a serious priority of our board. The safe schools framework of programs developed by our staff have been carefully constructed, data driven in approach and are second to none.

NNDSB is supported in this work through several partnerships. Among the board’s partners are: the Canadian Centre for Child Protection (C3P) for its financial support of teacher training and presentations to families about online risk; the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) for support to school teams, conversations with students and families, response to incidents and for transporting the board’s fleet of bicycles; North Bay Police Service (NBPS) for the provision of a liaison officer to support education initiatives, bullying awareness campaigns and safe school incidents; North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit for its assistance with public health campaigns related to cannabis use among youth, the dangers of vaping and promoting active school transportation; and Amelia Rising North Bay/Muskoka Parry Sound Sexual Assault Services for providing students and families with access to victim services and for providing resources to teachers and secondary students about healthy relationships, consent, abuse and how to seek help.

Since the launch of the safe schools framework in 2020, many new initiatives have been implemented.

School-based staff have access to a bullying awareness and prevention SharePoint that incorporates lessons, resources and activities that challenge students to think about how their actions can cultivate safety and inclusivity in their class, school and communities. Staff also receive training in violence prevention and de-escalation.

Teachers are now mandated to successfully complete sexual abuse prevention training before they can be registered with the Ontario College of Teachers.

Principals and vice-principals receive safe schools newsletters and have access to a SharePoint with templates, Ministry of Education documents and frequently asked questions. These school administrators also perform assessments to determine areas of strength and areas for growth regarding the physical environment, activities for staff and circumstances related to staff work. The safe schools team is also enabling administrator capacity in utilizing restorative practices, as the team believes the practices can decrease suspension rates, augment open communications and repair relationships following a misbehaviour or high risk incident.

Many supports exist for students, families and community members. The SAFERSCHOOLS! reporting form allows for anonymous reporting of incidents that should be brought to a staff member. A safe arrivals pilot program was developed, and soon its associated administrative guideline will be presented. The program will see attendance taken within 15 minutes of the entry bell, and callouts made within 30 minutes of the entry bell. Staff have been instructed on how to educate students about healthy relationships, how to identify signs of potential sex trafficking or assault and how to support victims of trafficking or sexual assault. The board’s anti-sex trafficking administrative guideline expedites and tailors supports for victims, potential victims and impacted school workers.

The safe schools team will continue to seek data from a number of sources, including the school climate survey, mental health surveys, suspension and infraction rates, safe school reporting form data, SAFER SCHOOLS! reporting tool data and analytics from C3P. Among the safe schools team’s goals for the 2022-2023 school year are building staff capacity to enact preventative measures and responsive actions that ensure safe learning environments for all students, using data to determine areas of future investment, building partnerships that support welcoming school environments, ��encouraging inclusivity and well-being and fostering greater family communication.

Eight schools will participate in a conflict resolution program that teaches students to Walk Away, Ignore, Talk it Out and Seek Help (WITS). Results from the pilot will determine future use. Vape detectors will be installed at one secondary school to measure the impact it has on vaping in school washrooms. The project will help principals identify which students may benefit from addictions counselling to reduce or quit e-cigarette use.

Two restorative practices learning sessions have been held, and principals and vice-principals who are interested in learning more will be invited to monthly restorative circles. The purpose is to engage in deep reflection about practices and consider how school issues and responses to them shift with the adoption and refinement of a restorative lens.

Vice-Chair Cochrane, who requested the report, said he is grateful to the safe schools team for the depth and breadth of its scope. “The team is constantly striving to make staff and students feel safe, welcome and included while they are involved in school-related activities. Student achievement and well-being is at the centre of every NNDSB improvement plan, and the work represented in this report furthers our efforts to achieve excellence in relationships. I appreciate the work of the safe schools team and am grateful for the contents of this important report.”

The report can be found in the Sept. 13 agenda package.

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Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We hope that all 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) students, staff and their families had a safe and enjoyable summer. We are eager to begin a new school year that will inspire, educate and support our families. We look forward to continuing supporting our rightsholders and stakeholders as appropriate.

The monthly Letter to Families, distributed on the first Friday of the month, is intended to keep you apprised of news that affects all students and families of NNDSB.

*

The past few years have been difficult for all of us, and we are proud of the efforts of students, staff and families who persevered through the pandemic. Student achievement and well-being are at the centre of everything we do at NNDSB, as illustrated in our Multi-Year Strategic Plan.

Circumstances of the last two years have shown the significant connection between mental health, well-being and learning. Mental health was recently announced as one of the five components of the Ministry of Education’s .

NNDSB is working hard to ensure that students are returning to school next week to environments that are safe, warm and welcoming. Mental health supports are in place for learners and educators. Students and families who require mental health supports can visit this section of �����ٳ���’s website, and are encouraged to speak with a trusted staff member at their school.

*

The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit will be following Ministry of Health guidance without any additional local measures in place to start the school year.

Based on the advice of the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, masks will be optional in schools, the board office and on school transportation vehicles. The government will continue to provide masks at schools for students, staff and visitors who choose to wear them, and hand sanitizer will continue to be provided at schools. Hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette should be promoted and integrated into the day.

The government recently announced changes to the five-day isolation period for COVID-19 patients. A person with any respiratory illnesses is being asked to stay home until they have seen an improvement in symptoms for 24 hours. After isolating, masks are to be work for 10 days from symptom onset when going back to school or work, and people should avoid contact with high-risk people and places. Staff and students are being urged to stay home if they are sick.

Families that are concerned about symptoms, exposure or testing can contact Ontario’s Testing and Isolation Information Line from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week at��1-888-777-0730 or by following the directions available on��.

It is recommended that all staff and students daily before they attend school and stay home if they are feeling unwell to prevent the spread of illness.

NNDSB has an inventory of rapid antigen tests and will be able to access more through the school year to be used in accordance with provincial testing guidance. The board has tests available in pack of two or five tests.

*

Nipissing Parry Sound Student Transportation Services (NPSSTS), also known as the Consortium, provides school transportation services for NNDSB and the other three co-terminus boards.

Masking is not mandatory but is recommended on school vehicles. NPSSTS drivers who have an inventory may have masks for student use on board, but families that prefer their children to mask should send them to the bus with a mask from home.

*

Families will notice a change in the lights on school buses. Effective July 1, 2022, changes to the Highway Traffic Act provide for the use of amber warning lights at the top of the bus, along with the red stop lights. In addition, the wording on the back of the bus now reads “STOP WHEN RED LIGHTS FLASHING”.

*

In addition to staying informed via the board’s website, families can find NNDSB on , and .

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

�����ٳ���’s PSW graduates filling community labour gaps

The first graduates of 17�Թ���’s (NNDSB) personal support worker (PSW) program are already filling labour gaps in local health care.

The program, which began in February, graduated 24 students this month and all of them – 100 per cent – are hired or have been offered employment in the field. Lisa Spencer, �����ٳ���’s Secondary Program Coordinator, SHSM and Experiential Learning says the goal of the program was to support community needs, and to contribute to the development of PSWs ready to start a career in healthcare.

Spencer says the wrap-around support that students receiced since inquiring about the program has helped develop “confident and proud PSWs” who graduated ready�� to begin their careers as frontline healthcare workers.

The training that PSW students receive in �����ٳ���’s living classroom settings is outlined by the Ontario Ministry of Health Long-term Care and the Ontario Ministry of Education. The quality is assured by Ontario Association of Adult and Continuing Education School Board Administrators (CESBA), a provincially funded organization that ensures adult and continuing education programs are accessible, affordable and support student success.

The training, she says, “aligns with every other program in the province, and students have the experience and credentials of every other PSW in Ontario.”

The living classroom, however, offers what many believe is an advantage in training. Spencer says having the ability to learn on the floor means that students are instructed in the classroom, and their education is deepened by what they learn from the PSWs and nurses who work there.

In Parry Sound, both instructor Nicole Robinson and Belvedere Heights administrator Kami Johnson say the ability to learn in class then practice on the floor enriches the learning opportunities for students and enhances the relationships between students and staff, and students and residents.

Robinson started her career in health care as a PSW and is now a registered practical nurse at Belvedere Heights. She can’t say enough about the increased learning opportunities provided to NNDSB PSW students via the living classroom.

For example, the students were able to provide palliative care to a resident, and they supplemented in-class learning by practicing and by watching the staff.

Robinson says her co-workers are excited to have the students in the building and will text her to let her know when there are learning opportunities; the students are invited to watch and participate in processes common in long-term care. The students are also invited to Belvedere Heights training sessions, so they are learning about new techniques and equipment.

“Hands down, this is the best way to learn,” enthuses Robinson. “The staff embrace my students and go the extra mile for them. They have been welcoming because they could be their next co-workers.”

Johnson echoes that sentiment. “I am blown away by the benefits of the living classroom,” she says, adding that there has been a huge positive affect on residents.

The addition of students to floor means that residents have increased numbers of interactions and relationships, and for staff, it means they get to know their future colleagues. Johnson says she has preceptors knocking on her door offering to support the PSW students.

The quality of the work of the 10 students who graduated from the Parry Sound program is excellent, says Johnson. “They are confident and competent,” she says. The students’ work has been a great addition to the team, and she says “a consistent team makes for improved resident outcomes and better quality of life. This is a critical program.”

The PSW program is but one example of the outcomes being achieved through the board’s multi-year strategic plan. In this instance, the focus on excellence in relationships and excellence in innovation has resulted in outstanding student success that is benefitting the communities where we work and live.

Johnson says she is excited continue supporting the PSW program, and also welcomes secondary school students who may want to try a co-operative education placement at the home.

The program will be running in Parry Sound and Mattawa in September, and it is the board’s intention to also run the PSW program in North Bay and West Nipissing. For more information on the program and intake requirements, visit the PSW page of �����ٳ���’s website.

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Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

First Rider program initiates littlest learners on bus safety

Riding the school bus for the first time can be both a scary and exciting experience for the 17�Թ���’s (NNDSB) youngest learners. That’s why since 2012 Nipissing-Parry Sound Student Transportation Services (NPSSTS) has run the First Riders program.

NPSSTS Safety Officer Anna Leppinen said the First Riders program introduces students and families to the process of riding the school bus and what is expected of everyone involved. The roles of the bus driver, bus company, the consortium, families and students are all discussed.

The program is a wonderful introduction to how to ride the school bus safely, Leppinen said. Students watch a school bus safety video, receive a lesson on the rules of the school bus, and have the opportunity to ride on a school bus for the first time. Students learn safety tips, rules and expectations of their behaviour while riding the school bus and while waiting for the school bus to arrive at their stop.

After the video and discussion of bus rules students line up at several mock bus stops and safely board the bus as it makes the rounds. The First Riders then go on their first school bus ride all by themselves while families get their own lessons in school bus procedures.

First Rider hosts review the primary policies and procedures of student transportation with families. These include procedures around inclement weather days, arranging pick-up and drop-off locations, the process for locating a misplaced student and student behaviour management.

Parent Logane White said her daughter, Hali, had never been on a school bus and was nervous about riding for the first time. “We thought this was a great opportunity for her,” said White.

“She was very excited to participate in the First Rider program. She loved learning and asking questions, the bus ride and playing with the little demonstration buses. The package from NPSSTS with the colouring page and magnet were also a hit,” White said.

“I was happy about the safety video shown to the children and that my daughter was able to ride the bus alone. That really allowed her to have the full experience,” White said. “It is comforting to know she’s done it once before school starts.”

White feels it’s very important for both students and families to attend the program for many reasons. One being that the little riders are used to riding in car seats in personal vehicles.

“If we had not gone to this program, the first day would be very confusing for Hali to climb onto a giant bus that has no seat belts or car seats,” White said. “This helps ease the parents’ mind and children’s mind on that first day of school. It’s a big transition for little ones and this program helps with that transition,” she added.

Leppinen said��bus drivers report overall satisfaction in young learners’ feelings of safety and comfort with loading onto the school bus for the first time. Families also seem to have a greater sense of direction in terms of who to approach for different requests for changes to transportation, she said.

The program has been popular and successful since its creation with participation numbers increasing steadily each year leading up to the COVID-19 pandemic. In-person sessions had been paused for the last two years but all areas of the program experienced steady participation numbers for its return in 2022.

Sessions ran in all areas served by NPSSTS and were offered in French and English. manages and coordinates all school transportation services for NNDSB and its four co-terminus school boards.

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For more information, please contact:

Brett Hanson
Communications Coordinator
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5083
E. Brett.Hanson@nearnorthschools.ca

Statement regarding the damage to the Shaptotaun at Parry Sound High School

17�Թ��� (NNDSB) shares the pain caused by the vandalism of the Shaptotaun at Parry Sound High School (PSHS) and wishes to provide an update regarding these incidents. NNDSB is proud of the relationships it continues to cultivate with many First Nations. In the Parry Sound area, the board works with the First Nations of Moose Deer Point, Wasauksing, Shawanaga, Magnetawan and Henvey Inlet. Students of these First Nations and other Indigenous communities attend PSHS.

NNDSB is aware of two incidents where the Shaptotaun at PSHS was damaged. Immediately upon discovery of the vandalism, NNDSB took action. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) was contacted by the PSHS principal. In situations where any facility within NNDSB has been the target of an act of vandalism, a thorough investigation is conducted. NNDSB conducted an internal investigation that has not turned up any further information. These incidents happened on school property outside of school hours, and there have been no leads to share with the OPP. Although there is a lack of suspects, the OPP continues to investigate. �����ٳ���’s internal investigation remains open at the school and board level, and it continues to cooperate and support the OPP.

It is important to NNDSB to ensure meaningful reparations are brought about to the Shaptotaun, Indigenous students and staff, the PSHS community, and the board’s relationships with all rightsholders. In consultation with various members of Indigenous communities including the Board’s First Nations Trustee, letters of acknowledgement about the hurt caused by the vandalism and our follow-up actions were issued to the five area First Nation Chiefs indicating we stand with them regarding this disrespectful incident. Plans are underway to coordinate a talking circle to acknowledge the requirement for culturally safe spaces and healing in the new school year when the Shaptotaun arrives back at the school and is set up once again.

NNDSB is guided by the firm principle that it does not condone actions that are harmful to NNDSB property or disrespectful to any race, colour, creed or identity. The board is disheartened by these incidents and shares the impacts felt by PSHS’s Indigenous students, staff, families and community members. We regret that the process is taking a considerable time to resolve thus we are issuing this statement as an update while we patiently await the results of the investigation. NNDSB will continue to consult and engage with a range of Indigenous partners to guide us with Indigenous wisdom, knowledge, and ways of knowing.

NNDSB brings Hockey Canada Skills Academy to Parry Sound, Seguin

A partnership between 17�Թ��� (NNDSB), Hockey Canada and the Townships of Parry Sound and Seguin will enable students in Grades 8-12 at Parry Sound High School (PSHS) to earn credits while building their hockey skills and confidence.

The program will launch in September 2022 and run for the first semester only (September through January) at the Bobby Orr Community Centre in Parry Sound and in the second semester only at Humphrey Arena (the program in second semester will also be open to Grade 8 students at Humphrey Public School).

The program delivery will be provided by PSHS teacher AJ Wheaton, who is a qualified Hockey Canada Skills instructor. Students will be able to work towards a high school credit and a Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) pathway in health and wellness.

“We look forward to providing this innovative programming for our students that will improve their learning experience, student success and student engagement,” says Dawn Buckland, principal of PSHS.

Participants in the program will do their off-ice learning at PSHS as part of a physical education credit and the hockey skills curriculum from Hockey Canada, then apply those skills on the ice at the arenas. Students will spend time on specific skills areas like skating, shooting, passing and goaltending. They will also develop essential life skills such as learning about balanced nutrition and mental health. Students will have an opportunity to experience the game of hockey in a non-competitive environment that focuses on a holistic approach to health, wellness and skill-building.

NNDSB Director of Education Craig Myles has been instrumental in seeking out opportunities for the board to provide innovative programming. “It’s imperative that NNDSB meets the needs of our communities, while providing innovative programming that engages students. The Hockey Canada partnership is a great opportunity for our students to build their skills and learn about health and wellness. Sport provides the opportunity for people to develop in a multitude of ways, and this partnership will enable students to develop many essential life skills.”

Board Chair Jay Aspin says the partnership embodies the board’s commitment to Excellence in Relationships and Excellence in Teaching and Learning. “Staff continue to create partnerships that offer NNDSB students the best opportunities for learning. There are many ways to teach about health and wellness, and the Hockey Canada partnership is just one way NNDSB is transforming educational experiences in tandem with Canada’s game.”

Manager of Parks and Recreation for the Town of Parry Sound, April McNamara, says, “I thank NNDSB for bringing an exciting program to the youth of Parry Sound. There are so many benefits to bringing youth together on the ice.”

Seguin Township��Manager of Community Services��Dominique O’Brien says staying active is fundamental to support youth mental and physical health. “We are so pleased that Hockey Skills Canada is making this program accessible to Seguin kids. The Township looks forward to welcoming the organization to our arena this winter.”

Anyone interested in more information should contact Principal Dawn Buckland at Parry Sound High School, 705-773-7979.

NNDSB central program staff are also working to expand the program to other secondary and elementary schools for the 2023-2024 school year in different regions of the board. Details on the progress will be released accordingly.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As we prepare for the end of another school year and look forward to the summer of 2022, I want to thank you for your valued contribution to the education of your children.

The past two-and-a-half years have been difficult for everyone; our home and work lives still look different than they did in February 2020. I am proud of the way 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) staff and students reacted to the COVID-19 pandemic and embraced new ways of teaching.

That also meant that NNDSB students and families had to embrace new ways of learning. Family support is imperative to education and our students couldn’t have managed as well as they did without you in their corners.

I want to congratulate �����ٳ���’s 2022 graduates who begin their journeys into the community, post-secondary, apprenticeship or the world of work. To all, the best of luck in whatever your future holds. I am confident that the education you received at NNDSB will serve you well on whatever path you are on.

It appears that the next school year will look and feel much as it did in the fall of 2019; I am reluctant to use the term “normal” but have hope for a return to a more familiar way of teaching and learning. I hope all of you take time during the break to reflect on the challenging time we have been through, and enjoy a safe, healthy and happy summer.

�����ٳ���’s monthly Letter to Families will resume on Friday, Sept. 2, 2022, and priority news will be shared as necessary through the summer.

Sincerely,

Craig Myles

Director of Education

Measuring metrics substantiates board’s efforts to improve accountability, transparency

As it wraps up the first school year operating under its multi-year strategic plan (MYSP), 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) is forging ahead with plans to make evidence-based decisions that contribute to student achievement and well-being.

NNDSB staff regularly gather evidence in a variety of initiatives to create a fulsome view of progress toward achieving excellence in the four priority areas. The board has chosen two key indicators upon which to provide regular reports for each of the four priority areas of the MYSP – Excellence in Teaching and Learning, Excellence in Innovation, Excellence in Communication and Excellence in Relationships – and will be measuring to assess progress and alignment. The use of quantitative metrics contributes to �����ٳ���’s commitment to improved accountability and transparency.

Board Chair Jay Aspin says, “Our board is pleased with the implementation of these quantitative metrics for the purpose of assessing the board’s progress with its Multi-Year Strategic Plan. Coupled with the qualitative metrics we recently released, these metrics provide a full assessment of the progress of our plan. Our board has spent much time and effort developing and implementing an effective five-year plan which is regarded as our ‘road map for success’. It is commendable that we are among the top boards in the province that have actually extended the effort to develop these��metrics to fully measure the progress of our strategic plan which speaks directly to accountability and performance.”

At the Board meeting Tuesday, June 14, MYSP Committee Chair Bill Steer spoke to a report that outlined the indicators that have been selected for each of the four priority areas.

“The MYSP is the key document that brings all educational matters and audiences of our Board together,” say Steer. “Now we can continue to share quantitative and qualitative measures that will make a difference and reflect upon the four pillars contained within the plan,” he says.

In the pillar of Excellence in Teaching and Learning, metrics that address supporting students’ success in literacy and numeracy were measured. In literacy, it was noted that 33 staff members have been trained to identify students at risk of reading outcomes without supports, and that 500 PowerUp literacy licenses were purchased to support the needs of students in Grades 7 and 8 who may benefit from targeted literacy learning opportunities. All math educators learned about the new de-streamed math curriculum, which includes coding and financial literacy.

The Excellence in Innovation pillar, the metrics being measured are the number of students participating in experiential learning opportunities (Special High Skills Majors and Ontario Youth Apprenticeship programs), as well as the use of a profession learning portal for staff.

New partnerships were measured in order to evaluate progress in the Excellence in Relationships pillar of the MYSP. In the 2021-2022 school year, six new partnerships were forged. Two of these resulted in the emergence of two significant programs – the personal support worker (PSW) program and the coop program with Northern Ontario Film Studios.

While looking at Excellence in Communications, the MYSP committee looked into engagement in website and social media platforms, and the number of positive news stories that were published by media outlets. Analytics shows that the number of visitors to the board’s website has increased more than 48 per cent since September with longer session durations during a visit. The board was featured in 91 positive news stories between September 2021 and May 2022, an average of 10 per month.

The setting of key indicators and measuring their affiliated metrics is further proof of �����ٳ���’s commitment to goal setting and achievement at school, department and board levels.

More information about quantitative data related to the MYSP can be found in the Board’s agenda package.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

NNDSB approves $168.3 million compliant budget

At its meeting last night, trustees of 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) approved the 2022-2023 budget, as recommended by the finance committee.

Finance Committee Chair John Cochrane provided a report and presentation of the compliant budget, which will have revenue and expenses of $168.3 million with a $62,930 surplus.

The budget process is managed through the lens of the board’s multi-year strategic plan (MYSP) ensuring that NNDSB is managed efficiently and is financially sustainable year over year.

Board Chair Jay Aspin says, “Our board is very pleased with all the contributors in our system that have assisted us in achieving our financial goals for this past year. Moving forward, our board has endorsed a 2022-23 budget that will continue to move the board solidly forward with many positive enhancements. Among the most notable��for the coming year will be the consolidation of three elementary schools to a new Fricker elementary school in North Bay, and the consolidation of two elementary schools with an existing high school to build a combined K-12 school in Parry Sound. As well, we have invested in the second year of implementation of our multi-year strategic plan, focusing our priorities on student well-being and achievement which includes the tripling of the student mental health allocation.”

The Board heard that enrolment is expected to increase by 3.2 per cent and it is projected that there will be 141 more elementary students, and 161 more secondary students enrolled in NNDSB than this year. As a result, there were no teacher layoffs this spring.

NNDSB will receive $1.8 million as one-time funding through the COVID-19 Learning Recovery Fund to provide temporary staffing supports for learning recovery, the implementation of the first year of de-streamed Grade 9, delivering remote learning, supports for special education and maintaining enhanced cleaning standards. The board will focus these funds toward administrative and special education support for the virtual school, supporting early and later literacy, and English language learners across the board.

The board continues to budget for a deficit in special education, with a projected deficit of $192,000 in 2022-2023. The board continues to allocate additional funds to ensure that the special education needs of students across the board are well-supported, and special education staffing has remained consistent.

As prepared, the budget shows a $1.3 million transportation deficit. The Ministry will be allocating a two per cent increase included in the provincial allocation, and if the board receives a full two per cent increase to its transportation funding, the deficit would be reduced to $1 million.

This year, the Ministry of Education provided a 5.45 per cent cost update to the non-staff portion of the school operations allocation. This funding is to help boards manage increases in commodity prices (electricity, natural gas, facilities insurance, etc.) and additional money to support the increased costs of running ventilation systems longer and replacing filters more often.

Funding also included a provision for labour negotiations, as collective agreements expire on Aug. 31, 2022. The provision is subject to the outcome and conclusion of negotiations

The Ministry’s Pupil Foundation Grant includes a new component for broadband network operations. The funding supports network connectivity, infrastructure, security and operations in schools and board buildings.

There is a significant increase in funding for mental health. The Ministry has increased the base amount of the allocation to support student mental health from $100,858 to $301,723 per board and increased the per pupil amount from $1.34 to $6.67.

The board continues to examine staffing to ensure that positions, roles and responsibilities match Ministry funding parameters, and the four priorities of the MYSP. This ensures alignment of resources and initiatives to the goal of student achievement and well-being.

“It has been a challenging year to keep our staff and students safe in the midst of the second year of a very difficult and disruptive pandemic and remain fiscally responsible” says Chair Aspin. “We have approved a solid, strategic financial plan and look forward to the year ahead.”

Details on the budget may be found within the Board’s agenda package. Information about education funding process can be found on of the Government of Ontario website.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Students, community partner laud board’s PSW program

The first class of personal support worker (PSW) students is about halfway through 17�Թ���’s (NNDSB) unique program, which re-engages learners while assisting to close the gap in employment needs in the healthcare sector. The program sees students learn in living classrooms – they learn theory and often within hours are on the floor putting into practice what they’ve just learned.

The program is running in Parry Sound and North Bay, with community partners Belvedere House and Cassellholme, which are providing the classroom space and mentorship of the PSW students.

The in-class sessions will wrap up June 30, then students will have to fulfil placement hours in both long-term care and community care settings.

In North Bay, instructor Nancy Corbett is no stranger to . She’s been a registered practical nurse (RPN) there for 25 years and has worked as a preceptor for practical nursing students.

She loves teaching in the living classroom, where students start to learn slowly with portering and feeding residents before they learn about hygiene and other aspects of care. Corbett says when students get to shadow PSWs, they learn by seeing others do the work, then get to try it themselves. She says living classrooms “are the way to teach. It’s the way to go,” because of the shortened timeframe between learning and doing.

The hands-on learning is what appealed to Arianna Poullas. The North Bay resident studied for a year at college but didn’t enjoy learning in a classroom from a textbook. The PSW program appealed to her because after theoretical learning, there is application of the knowledge.

“I like being able to do things with my hands,” says Poullas. “It makes things make sense to me.”

She says the small class size helps the group all feel like family, and says it’s been like that since the first day. The students are supportive of each other, and Poullas says this is the best program she’s ever been involved in. She says learning by reading “just doesn’t stick in my head”; she likes being out on the floor and is happy to not be learning solely by books.

PSW student Jillian Hewitt is also a part-time employee and single mom who enjoys the flexibility of the program.

She enjoys observing and learning from the PSWs, as she finds every person does things a little differently. Watching the others lets her find the best way for her to do the job.

Hewitt says the program is well-organized and the way it’s been taught has made the content “easy to absorb.” She feels supported by Corbett, her peers and staff at Cassellholme, and is confident in the skills she will have when she graduates after her placement hours.

Poullas loves working with Cassellholme’s residents and is hoping for a job in long-term care. She’s already been hired in the home’s Helping Hands program; Cassellholme Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Jamie Lowery says it’s like a pre-PSW job position in which staff assist the PSWs.

Poullas is one of seven of the PSW students who have been hired as Helping Hands at Cassellholme. Lowery says the work that was done in vetting candidates has created a class of students who have “an inherent desire to be a PSW.” He says staff is “blown away” by the quality of students and of the course being taught.

�����ٳ���’s intake process is credited with successful inaugural classes.

Lisa Spencer, who facilitates specialist high skills majors and experiential learning for NNDSB says, “Our intake process consisted of an initial literacy assessment and interview where our team had the opportunity to meet and support each student individually. As a continuing education program, not all our students came to us with their high school diploma so really understanding the pathway for our students helped us to support the initiation process. We can see that our intake process is supportive, and we are very proud of all our students. They can earn their high school diploma while participating in a state of the art post-secondary program.”

Corbett says the interview process gleaned candidates who were best suited to the work of a PSW and who displayed the commitment needed to complete the course. Lowery says he was impressed with NNDSB and its flexibility in designing the program. Teaching learners to deal with difficult people is a skill that the PSW students can use in many aspects of life, not just at work.

He adds that for some, working as a PSW may be only the first step in a healthcare career. Cassellholme has a training budget for its staff which can help people meet their career goals.

There are plans to run the PSW program in September in West Nipissing and Mattawa, too. People interested in taking the PSW course can visit this page for more information. It contains links to an , information about the literacy assessment, and a fillable form to register interest in the program. Spaces are limited so potential students are urged to register as soon as possible.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

NNDSB staff get Caverhill Road Race running again

17�Թ��� (NNDSB) staff put in hundreds of volunteer hours to ensure that the Caverhill Road Race took place after a two-year hiatus caused by COVID-19 and its resulting restrictions.

The race, initially known as the Nobel Road Race, has been an annual spring staple in the community. This year, organizers Brigid Wright (principal of Nobel Public School) and Dawn Buckland (principal of Parry Sound High School) organized the May 7 event on short notice.

Buckland says, “In times of extreme staff shortage, it was amazing to see countless NNDSB staff and student volunteers work tirelessly to get the event up and running.” In addition to attending planning meetings, there were volunteers on race day all along the route.

The organizing team knows how important extra-curricular activities are to students and staff and are excited to begin the transition back to participation in such events.

The Caverhill Road Race is a single event organized and run by NNDSB staff, and features student-only categories. This year there were categories for Grade 3 and 4 girls, Grade 3 and 4 boys, Grade 5 and 6 girls, Grade 5 and 6 boys, Grade 7 and 8 girls and Grade 7 and 8 boys. The route is approximately three kilometres, finishing at Nobel Public School.

Among the race volunteers were Parry Sound High School students whose efforts on race day exemplify the character traits encouraged at NNDSB; the board supports students in being strong role models for their younger peers.

NNDSB is proud of its staff who are willing to go the extra mile and create memorable experiences and opportunities for students.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Board Highlights of May meeting

The following are the highlights of the 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) meeting of Tuesday, May 10, 2022.

In-person graduation ceremonies return

For the first time in two years, in-person graduation ceremonies are taking place at NNDSB schools.

Secondary school graduations are planned at each of the six secondary schools, and the Laurentian Learning Centre. Ceremonies are taking place between June 27 and 29.

Board Chair Jay Aspin, in speaking about graduation, called them “a special time for trustees. It’s kind of like watching your garden grow.”

Outdoor education and PD opportunities

Director of Education Craig Myles’ monthly update included a rundown of professional development for staff in outdoor education.

The board’s early childhood educators and kindergarten teachers were invited to express interest in the Forest Practitioner course being offered by the Child and Nature Alliance in Canada. The course involves four days of in-person learning at the Canadian Ecology Centre in Mattawa, and 11 months of independent online study. The course is being offered in May and June.

The Outdoor Ways of Learning and Sharing (OWLS) program is another of the ways in which outdoor learning takes place at NNDSB. Initially a pilot project in 2019, OWLS delivered interdisciplinary outdoor learning experiences to primary students. The program has expanded to provide these opportunities in all grades.

Director Myles also updated the Board on the status of the newly created outdoor classroom at Sundridge Centennial Public School and noted that NNDSB has been asked to give a presentation on the success of the board’s CAN Bike program at the Ontario Healthy School Conference later this month.

Updates on 3:2 consolidation work

In his update, Director Myles provided an update to trustees on the status of work in the 3:2 consolidation.

At Chippewa Secondary School, the auditorium interior and exteriors updates are almost 90 per cent complete and power to the new field scoreboard and maintenance building will begin this month. A weather-related event damaged the new learning commons space, and assessment and correction work are beginning.

At West Ferris Secondary School, the hospitality suite and cosmetology classroom are complete, and the learning commons has some adjustments to be made, but the book collection and technology has been reinstalled and space will be ready for use this month.

Student Trustees’ reports detail school activities

Student Trustee Cecilia Darling reported on a busy spring for students at all NNDSB secondary schools.

Spirit days included “anything but a backpack” day and student versus teacher sports games.

Darling also reported that information about Student Senate has been distributed to schools and elections for next year’s senators will be taking place soon.

Indigenous Student Trustee Allen Lewis Trodd’s report updated trustees on the work of the Indigenous Youth Circle and the meaningful ways NNDSB schools recognized May 5, the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and Two-Spirit People.

His report spoke to how he was personally impacted, and how important it is for others to see from an Indigenous point of view. Trodd also outlined his commitment to mentor the next Indigenous Student Trustee.

Infrastructure tenders awarded

Trustees moved to accept two recommendations to award tenders for work to be done at Argyle Public School ($526,562 plus HST) and Mapleridge Public School ($490,000 plus HST).

The work will see HVAC upgrades at Argyle Public School ��and washroom and public announcement system upgrades at Mapleridge Public School.

These projects are part of more than $20 million in upgrades at NNDSB schools across the district. The work has been made possible in part by school condition improvement funding and by staff application for joint federal and provincial funding through the COVID-19 Resilience Infrastructure Stream (CVRIS).

A media release issued May 12, 2022, outlined infrastructure investment in more detail.

Report shows board progressing towards goals

Trustees received a report that detailed survey results and progress that has been made towards achieving the goals outlined in the board’s Multi-Year Strategic Plan (MYSP).

Data collected from responses to an online survey shows the board is moving positively in the priority areas of Excellence in Innovation, Excellence in Communication, Excellence in Relationships and Excellence in Teaching and Learning.

Trustee Bill Steer, who chairs the MYSP Committee, says the committee will continue to identify data points and assess operations in order to evaluate progress. Among the next steps resulting from survey responses are improvements to web pages with literacy and numeracy content, increasing understanding of where information can be found, and increasing opportunities for stakeholders to be heard and increasing community involvement opportunities in schools.

This media release provides more details about the survey results and on-going assessment.

The full progress report can be found here.

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Note: the full agenda package is posted on the website prior to meetings, and official minutes are posted after they are approved at the next board meeting.

For more information, please contact:
Deb Bartlett (she/her)
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170 ext. 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Update on infrastructure investments throughout district

At its meeting Tuesday, May 10, 2022, 17�Թ��� moved to accept two recommendations to award tenders for major upgrades at two schools. These are the latest investments in NNDSB buildings across the district.

The most recent awards are for $526,562 for an HVAC upgrade project at Argyle Public School in Port Loring and a $490,000 award to upgrade washrooms and PA systems at Mapleridge Public School in Powassan.

These tenders are the most recent of several investments in infrastructure in schools throughout NNDSB. This school year, with support from federal and provincial government funding, more than $20.5 million has been invested into several buildings across all areas of the board.

Board Chair Jay Aspin says, “Our board is grateful for the significant amount of federal and provincial government support to assist us in modernizing our facilities to keep our students and staff safe during these challenging times. Our firm commitment is to provide the best learning environment to promote student well-being and success in all regions of our board.”

Much of the infrastructure investment was for ventilation upgrades, and more than $6 million was provided to NNDSB following a rigid application process. NNDSB staff conducted thorough needs assessments then applied for funding to offset costs of upgrades to improve educational spaces throughout the board.

�����ٳ���’s Superintendent of Business Seija Van Haesendonck, says, “Through the support of the federal and provincial governments, the board has planned upgrades to ventilation systems at many schools across the region to provide enhanced air quality, in coordination with the HEPA filtration units purchased with federal and provincial funding. In addition to the COVID-19 Resilience Infrastructure Stream – Education Related Projects (CVRIS-EDU) funding received as part of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, the Board has directed Ministry of Education School Condition Improvement and School Renewal allocations to ensure the upgrades are completed, and to support other projects within our schools such as washroom upgrades.”

James Coventry, �����ٳ���’s manager of facilities and operations, says the board’s Multi-Year Strategic Plan (MYSP) and the board’s core purpose – student achievement and well-being – has been helpful in guiding processes and making decisions.

Many projects have focused on ventilation systems and helping to optimize air quality of schools and supporting healthy and safe learning environments for students and staff.

Other infrastructure projects will help NNDSB provide students with a 21^st century education by creating innovative learning spaces.

“NNDSB’s 2021-2026 MYSP outlines our key strategic priorities, one of which is Excellence in Innovation,” says Coventry. “Exciting upgrades in schools will allow our students to engage in future-oriented learning experiences that promote excellence in achievement and well-being. We are constructing learning commons and completing upgrades to libraries, classrooms (both indoors and outdoors), and technology shops,” he says.

“These projects will support our current programming as well as allow our students new opportunities,” adds Coventry.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

MYSP survey results show board progressing towards goals

Data from April’s Multi-Year Strategic Plan (MYSP) online survey has been compiled and shows 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) is moving in a positive direction in the four priority areas: Excellence in Communication; Excellence in Relationships; Excellence in Teaching and Learning; and Excellence in Innovation.

Trustee Bill Steer, who chairs the MYSP Committee, presented a progress report to trustees at last night’s Board meeting. “The MYSP Committee and the Board will continue to identify additional numerical data points that will assess various aspects of our educational operations through the intent of the MYSP. The MYSP progress report is the next step in applying the plan,” he said.

The April survey gathered responses from staff, parents/guardians, students and community partners.

Baseline data was taken from internal sources and stakeholder interviews with Nanos Research, Ministry of Education special advisors and Ramsay Partners Inc. prior to development of the MYSP.

Respondents to the April survey overwhelmingly believed that the volume of communication from NNDSB had increased in the past two years, and almost 79 per cent of respondents were able to find all or most of the information they were looking for.

The majority of respondents (89 per cent) agree that NNDSB schools have innovative programs and 89 per cent agree that the board offers excellence in teaching and learning.

The survey responses also provided the board with some goals for improvement and next steps to continue building confidence with stakeholders. Among identified improvements are web pages for literacy and numeracy content, increasing understanding of where information may be found, investigating innovative options for students who live in areas of declining enrolment, and increasing opportunities for stakeholders to be heard and to increase community involvement in schools.

“The reliable saying ‘you can’t manage what you can’t measure’ holds true,” says Board Chair Jay Aspin. “Our MYSP Committee is developing both qualitative and quantitative measures to assist us with full measures to assess the progress of our recently created MYSP. Qualitative data has been developed from our pupils, employees, parents, partners and the public. Our board is very pleased with this data produced from this survey as it reflects the tremendous transition the board has undergone by establishing meaningful strategic goals then assessing delivery of these goals,” he says.

In addition to presenting the qualitative data from the survey, the MYSP progress report also shared quantitative information that outlines how NNDSB is working in all four priority areas to support the student, school, department and board improvement plans.

Accomplishments in the past year include improved and faster access to assistive technology for students, expanded course offering for all students through online learning, summer programs to help mitigate gaps due to COVID-19 disruptions, dedicated staff to support Indigenous education, optimized experiential learning opportunities and enhanced relationships with community partners via the equity advisory circle, as one example.

Director of Education Craig Myles said the MYSP survey gave stakeholders the opportunity to share feedback, while providing valuable information to NNDSB staff about progress and next steps.

“It’s vital that we keep lines of communication open with all stakeholder groups. The board needs to know how people feel about what we are doing,” says Myles. “The survey responses allowed us to assess how we are doing and provide direction to implement strategies focused on improvement.”

Here is the link to the full progress report with more details, data and accomplishments.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Northern Ontario Film Studios and 17�Թ��� strike a long-term deal for film training in Northern Ontario

The Northern Ontario Film Studios (NOFS) is delighted to announce a new partnership and filming initiative with 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) to provide on-the-job training opportunities to NNDSB students in conjunction with NOFS film productions filming in Northern Ontario. This learning cooperative will play a crucial role in engaging students in exploration of the multitude of career pathways available within the Northern Ontario film industry by creating awareness and interest in the variety of careers immediately available for them once they graduate. This hands-on training will give students the foundational building blocks to enter this exciting and growing industry.

Northern Ontario Film Studios is the largest full-service film studio in Northern Ontario, providing both creative and production services to a wide range of clients in the film and television industry. With a vast array of film production experience, unparalleled in the region, the Northern Ontario Film Studios has created award-winning film and television content around the world.

With its sister company Hideaway Pictures, they have produced more than 60 films and provided production services, studio space and equipment rental for more than 100 film and television projects in Northern Ontario. Having three studio spaces in the North Bay and Sudbury area, they have created more 3,000,000 hours of work for Northern Ontario residents, amounting to more than 2,000 full-time equivalent jobs in the North. The gross economic impact to the Ontario economy is well over $150,000,000 in direct spend.

In 2019, NOFS built a permanent $2,000,000 turn-of-the-century town in Powassan, ON. It is the only one of its kind in the province which has garnered attention from the industry abroad and is sought after as a future filming location.

In 2021, NOFS and Hideaway Pictures announced a new $125,000,000 deal to bring over 25 new film and television projects to Northern Ontario in the next 5 years. President of Production David Anselmo says, “This partnership is the first step to developing the young talent we have in our region and keeping them at home to work and grow in a new and exciting industry. Twenty years ago, when I chose to pursue my passion as a filmmaker, I never had the opportunity to do it in Northern Ontario. This partnership is just another way NOFS can fulfill its mandate of creating long lasting cinema in the North.”

NNDSB is responsible for the public education of approximately 10,000 learners from across the Almaguin Highlands, North Bay, Mattawa, West Nipissing and Parry Sound areas. The board serves a wide variety of communities within a 17,020 square km area and operates 27 elementary schools, six secondary schools, and a variety of alternative and continuing education programs and services.

NNDSB engages with organizations from many sectors to enhance student success, professional learning and the educational environment. Partners include community organizations, post-secondary institutions, businesses, charitable foundations, health agencies, arts organizations and social service agencies.

Board Chair Jay Aspin says, “Our board is truly excited about this new dynamic connection. Transforming and enhancing our board through innovation and the advancement of new relationships form a key pillar of our recently created multi-year strategic plan. This partnership will assist us in achieving these goals as we engage with the Northern Ontario Film Studios resulting in opportunities to improve student success, professional learning and broaden our educational environment.”

Of the initiative, NNDSB Director of Education Craig Myles says, “It is important to 17�Թ��� to continue to create innovative pathways that help students to make connections with the workforce and the community. This exciting new partnership with Northern Ontario Film Studios provides our students with an opportunity to explore the burgeoning film industry and seek further study and or employment in an exciting career in their home communities.”

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For more information, please contact studio manager Kaitlyn Greenough at 705.885.1660 or kaitlyn@hideawaypictures.com.

]]> /blog/may-letter-to-families/33032/ Fri, 06 May 2022 15:57:47 +0000 /?p=33032 Friday, May 6, 2022

Dear Parents and Guardians,

This monthly Letter to Families is intended to keep you apprised of news that affects all students and families of 17�Թ��� (NNDSB). The Letter to Families is distributed on the first Friday of the month.

*

Across Ontario, boards and schools celebrate Education Week the first week of May. NNDSB is proud of the work done by staff in all areas who work towards the goal of student achievement and well-being.

Board Chair Jay Aspin, in sharing his appreciation for the work of staff in education, calls education a “community endeavour” and says it’s vital to reflect on the work that has been done over the past few years and the obstacles that were overcome.

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, he commends staff for their display of dedication, patience, resilience, cooperation and collaboration, and remind them that they are not taking the journey alone.

Everyone working in NNDSB is working towards the multi-year strategic plan’s four pillars of excellence in teaching and learning, excellence in innovation, excellence in relationships and excellence in communication.

*

��On Monday, May 2, the board’s Parent Involvement Committee (PIC) hosted a presentation with Dr. Peg Dawson on executive functioning skills and how they may be used to strengthen children to their full potential

A PDF of Dr. Dawson’s presentation and the hour-long webinar may be found here.

*

Twenty-two NNDSB schools have been participating in The Forest of Reading, Canada’s largest recreational reading program.

Participating NNDSB schools offer this reading program to encourage a love of reading for all students.�� The Forest helps celebrate Canadian books, publishers, authors and illustrators. More than 270,000 readers participate annually from their school and/or public library.

The Forest of Reading Award Programs are where children and young adults pick the winner! Readers choose a program that they would like to be a part of, usually based on their age or grade, and simply begin reading. They can read all 10 of the titles, or pick and choose to read only the ones they are interested in. Participants are encouraged to read at least five of the 10 titles to be eligible to vote in April.

This program aims to encourage a genuine and life-long love of reading among readers of all ages. NNDSB students have been participating in virtual Author visits and may have opportunities to be involved in virtual celebrations in the coming weeks once the winning authors are announced.

*

�����ٳ���’s information technology (IT) team is sharing guidance from the Ministry of Education to help families avoid phishing and smishing scams.

The information may be found here and includes activities for children, to help them become aware of the dangers of cyber criminals.

*

NNDSB students are eligible to enter the Ontario Public School Board’s (OPSBA) I Public Education video contest.

OPSBA is asking that short clips (three to five seconds) be submitted that show people holding a small sign with the phrase or image I Public Education. Participants can write this in their first language, or any language typically spoken at home.

Submissions will be used to create a two- to three-minute video showing the full range of diversity of ages, faces, voices and places that make up provincial public schools and their love of learning and the shared values of public education.

Contest winners will be selected from student submissions. The contest is open to any student from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 in Ontario, so long as they are enrolled in a school that is part of a public district school board or school authority that is a member of the OPSBA.

All students who submit a clip will be automatically entered into a prize draw for one of five $50 Indigo e-gift cards.

The deadline for this contest is May 31, 2022, at 5 p.m.

The final video will be posted on OPSBA’s social media channels by mid-June.

Recording and Uploading Instructions:

The video can be recorded wherever you would like using a smartphone or any video device in standard video formats (.mp4, .avi, .mov, .m4v). You are encouraged to film at school, or any other location that is special to you and/or emblematic of your local community.

All video files must be submitted through OPSBA’s . Students must also submit their name, school, and school board with their video clips. The video clip’s file name must include this information in order for OPSBA to be able to contact the winners. (i.e., John Doe_SmithPS_NNDSB)

Additional contest details can be found on the .

*

The Ministry of Education has provided NNDSB with funding to provide $1,000 bursaries to 15 Grade 11 or 12 students who are pursuing post-secondary education in the skilled trades.

Application details are still being finalized; families can watch for details on the board’s social media accounts, or students may visit their school’s student success office for more information.

*

In addition to staying informed via the board’s website, families can find NNDSB on , and .

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Registration for 17�Թ���’s (NNDSB) virtual school registration closes on Sunday, April 17, 2022. If you plan to register your child(ren) for �����ٳ���’s virtual elementary or virtual secondary school for the 2022-2023 school year, please click��the link below to access to the registration letter and information.

/blog/letter-to-families-virtual-school-registration/32783/

If you have any questions, please contact virtualschool@nearnorthschools.ca.

Thank you,

NNDSB virtual school team

Board Highlights for April meeting

The following are the highlights of the 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) meeting of Tuesday, April 12, 2022.

Trustees review use of resources for campaigning

Trustees discussed and approved a procedure that outlines how and when Board resources may be used during the campaign period. Rules and procedures must be established before May 1, in accordance with The Municipal Elections Modernization Act, 2016.

The procedures apply to all trustees, registered trustee candidates and staff, and is intended to supplement the Trustee Code of Conduct.

The procedure covers the use of school board resources during the municipal and school board election campaign period, which for the upcoming campaign will be from May 1 to Oct. 24 (election day). The resources covered by the procedure included staff time, computer, fax, telephone, cell phone, laptop, tablet, website, newsletter, email, board or school social media accounts.

While trustees are expected to continue to use their board-issued resources to fulfil their duties as a member of the Board, they are not to use them for campaign-related purposes.

School trip guidelines modified after consultation

Following a public consultation period, the administrative guideline that deals with school trips has been modified.

The school trip guideline will include a standardized form for use by all schools, an approach that evaluates an activity on its level of risk and the requirement of a criminal reference check for all school volunteers, regardless of level of supervision.

The modified version was reviewed and approved by executive council on April 5, 2022.

Community use of schools resumes

In his report, Director of Education Craig Myles noted that the Community Use of 17�Թ��� program has resumed. Organizations that require the use of school facilities are invited to submit applications.

More information and applications may be found on this page.

MYSP survey closes tomorrow

The Multi-Year Strategic Plan (MYSP) committee is seeking stakeholder input to measure progress since the five-year plan has been operationalized. More information about the survey can be found in this media release.

The survey is open until Friday, April 15 and the .

Report highlights Indigenous education initiatives

A report from the First Nations Advisory Committee highlighted the scope of Indigenous education in the board and introduced three new initiatives.

The report announced a new Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) arts and culture program with an Indigenous studies focus that will be implemented at Parry Sound High School in September 2022, an initiative that will see all Grade 11 students take NBE3 – English: understanding contemporary First Nations, Métis and Inuit voices and an alternative secondary school program that will be delivered in partnership with the North Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre. More will be announced about this in the coming weeks.

Board Chair Jay Aspin says, “Our board is committed to ensure Indigenous students have every opportunity for success. This board action plan is part of a complex structure of supports prioritizing equitable outcomes to move forward towards the success and well-being of these students through much needed systemic change.”

The full report is available in the Board package, and a media release has been issued.

Student Trustee advises of Senate elections

Student Trustee Cecilia Darling told the Board that secondary school elections to �����ٳ���’s Student Senate will take place soon. The election timeline will see newly elected Senators from each school attend the Senate meetings by May.

She also noted that election and information will be send to students to be shared with their school communities.

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Note: the full agenda package is posted on the website prior to meetings, and official minutes are posted after they are approved at the next board meeting.

For more information, please contact:
Deb Bartlett (she/her)
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170 ext. 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As we approach this coming Easter weekend, then the final few months of the school year, 17�Թ��� (NNSDB) wants to remind families of the COVID-19 practices that help us maintain safe learning environments for students and staff.

*

While masking for staff and students across the province is encouraged but no longer required, please remember that there are still situations where students are required to be masked while at school.

Students should remain masked for:

• 14 days upon arriving back in Canada after travelling;
• 10 days from initial exposure when they are a household member of a COVID-19 positive case/individual;
• 10 days after last exposure date when they have been identified as a close contact;
• 10 days total after symptom onset should they test positive for COVID-19;
• 48 hours after getting a COVID-19 vaccine or flu shot.

Masks continue to be available at all schools if students require one.

A reminder that students should continue to do the����each day before coming to school.

*

Masks will no longer be required for students, staff, visitors and spectators in schools, school board offices and on student transportation. Eye protection for staff will also no longer be required. Some students and staff may choose to continue wearing masks and eye protection.

*

Cohorting and distancing are no longer required in schools. Assigned seats and cohorting will no longer be required in student transportation.

Elementary students can play and learn together across cohorts, classes and grades, indoors and outdoors, and during lunch and recess. Shared spaces such as libraries, tech labs, theatres and music rooms can be fully utilized without distancing.

Limitations on in-person gatherings and assemblies are also removed.

*

NNDSB continues to use rapid antigen tests (RATs) to support symptomatic testing only for staff and students. 17�Թ��� are expected to continue distributing RATs to staff and students who return from an unplanned absence.

*

Many workplaces are short-staffed due to the transmissibility of new variants of COVID-19, and the requirements around self-isolating. NNDSB has been experiencing staff shortages, too.

If schools are not able to safely operate with the number of available staff, NNDSB will close schools. The announcement may be made the night before, the morning of the closure, or possibly even during the day in certain circumstances.

If a school is closed, it will be communicated to affected families by the school through SchoolMessenger.��Information may also be shared on the affected school’s social media accounts.

While schools may be closed, learning will continue online when possible. Teachers will reach out to families about remote learning opportunities in the event of a school closure.

*

Nipissing Parry Sound Student Transportation Services (NPSSTS), the consortium that provides busing services to the four co-terminus school boards, is also experiencing increasing levels of driver shortages due to COVID-19. NPSSTS has provided this communiqué to families to outline steps being taken and how families might be impacted.

Because of a shortage of spare drivers many routes are being doubled, resulting in delays, Sometimes, the driver shortage forces route cancellations. These are posted on NPSSTS’s of their .

Though no longer mandated, NPSSTS encourages everyone to wear a well-fitting mask when riding on a school bus.

*

In addition to staying informed via the board’s��website, families can find NNDSB on��,����and��.

*

We thank our school communities for their cooperation as we work hard to ensure our schools stay safe and open for learning. NNDSB will continue to update families in a timely manner.

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

Multi-layered approach supports Indigenous education

The First Nations Advisory Committee (FNAC) report presented at last night’s 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) meeting outlined the scope of Indigenous education in schools and introduced several new initiatives.

In addition to outlining the status of Indigenous education across the board, the report announced:

• a new Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) arts and culture program with an Indigenous studies focus that will be implemented at Parry Sound High School in September 2022
• an initiative that will see all Grade 11 students take NBE3 – English: understanding contemporary First Nations, Métis and Inuit voices
• an alternative secondary school program that will be delivered in partnership with the North Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre. More will be announced about this in the coming weeks.

One of the board’s key priorities is working towards equitable outcomes for Indigenous students. This is accomplished by supporting Indigenous student well-being, transitions and pathways, parent and community engagement and by maximizing system and educator capacity.

The board action plan for Indigenous education focuses on supporting student success and well-being for Indigenous learners, families and communities, as well as ��increasing the knowledge, understanding and awareness of Indigenous culture, worldview, historical and contemporary issues and perspectives for all members of school communities throughout the board.

Board Chair Jay Aspin says, “Our board is committed to ensure Indigenous students have every opportunity for success. This board action plan is part of a complex structure of supports prioritizing equitable outcomes to move forward towards the success and well-being of these students through much needed systemic change.”

In addition to the work that takes place across the board, there are school and community initiatives that support system work. FNAC is grateful to the team of Indigenous language teachers, First Nations, Métis and Inuit studies teachers, graduation coaches, transitions support and education counsellors, as well as allies who help create dynamic learning environments.

Director of Education Craig Myles acknowledges that cooperation and communication between NNDSB and Indigenous partners are vital to success in this area. “We, as a board, are committed to ensuring equitable outcomes for Indigenous students. �����ٳ���’s work at all levels in support of Indigenous student well-being, transitions and pathways, parent and community engagement, as well as system and educator capacity are rooted in the Multi-Year Strategic Plan (MYSP).”

Among the initiatives at NNDSB that support Indigenous students are youth circles (from which the Indigenous Student Trustee is appointed), graduation coaches at four secondary schools who support Indigenous students with culturally responsive approaches to learning and an outreach worker who supports Indigenous families moving to the area.

To support educators, the board has invested in cultural competency training for all staff and has contracted cultural advisors who support learning and increase the understanding of Anishinaabe history, culture, knowledge, teachings and perspectives.

The full report is available in the Board package.

-30-

For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Workshop explains how executive skills promote school success

17�Թ���’s (NNDSB) Parent Involvement Committee is hosting a workshop with Dr. Peg Dawson, who will discuss how executive skills can affect students’ ability to learn and student success.

The online session for families takes place Monday, May 2 at 7 p.m.

Dr. Dawson and her colleague, Dr. Richard Guare, have co-authored the books Smart but Scattered and Smart but Scattered Teens, as well as several books on this topic for educators, mental health professionals and families. She is a school psychologist with expertise in the assessment of learning and attention disorders.

Dr. Dawson’s workshop for educators introduces the 11 executive skills featured in the Smart but Scattered model and provides school-based strategies for strengthening each skill across the grade levels.

The workshop for families describes how these skills develop throughout childhood and suggest strategies that can be used to help children acquire the critical skills they need to be successful students.

The says executive skills “refer to the brain-based cognitive processes that help us to regulate our behaviour, make decisions and set and achieve goals.” They include task initiation and follow through, planning and organization, working memory, performance monitoring, inhibition of impulses and self-regulation. Dr. Dawson believes these skills are “absolutely critical to school success.” Learn more about how Dr. Dawson defines executive skills .

She is past president of the National Association of School Psychologists, the International School Psychology Association and is a recipient of NASP’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

NNDSB invites members of the community to attend Dr. Dawson’s using . People can also attend by phone. Find your local dial-in number , then use Meeting ID: 833 3486 5926 and Passcode: 020746.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The safety and well-being of our students and staff is of paramount importance to 17�Թ��� (NNDSB). The board’s safe schools and program team works diligently to ensure that everyone who comes to school may learn and work in a safe environment.

A community organization has announced the potential implementation of a safe injection site in the vicinity of Chippewa Secondary School. This issue is likely to draw much media attention and scrutiny in the community.

Supervisory Officer Gay Smylie, whose portfolio includes safe schools, assures NNDSB families that the safe schools team will continue to monitor the situation. Although the board has no control over an outside organization’s use of their property, NNDSB can work to ensure that people in our buildings remain as safe as possible.

Thank you,

17�Թ���

Chippewa students win Canadore entrepreneurship competition

17�Թ��� is proud of the team of Jayda James and Rahim Patel, two Chippewa Secondary School students who won the inaugural Panther’s Lair Entrepreneurship Competition at Canadore College.

The pair’s business proposal, RJ Shirts, would see the creation of environmentally-friendly tie-dyed shirts using organic dyes.

Read Canadore’s media release here:

Panther’s Lair FINAL-REVISED MR

Program offers free Intro to Trades dual credits at Canadore College

17�Թ��� (NNDSB) is taking registrations for a program that will see re-engaged learners earn up to two credits towards their secondary school diploma and up to two college course credits towards a Trades Fundamentals certificate at Canadore. The program is called Introduction to the Trades.

Alysha Young, �����ٳ���’s re-engagement lead and a dual-credit teacher, says this course is for adult learners aged 21 and older who have not earned their Ontario Secondary School Diplomas.

Learners will attend the Commerce Court Campus of Canadore College in North Bay from April 25 to June 10 for half days (9 a.m. to approximately 12:30 p.m.). Students can take an introduction to carpentry and/or introduction to plumbing course. There is no cost to attend the program and students will receive financial assistance with equipment and transportation.

The introduction to carpentry course introduces students to a variety of hand and power tools, with an emphasis on identification, selection and safe operating procedures. Skill building will focus on residential construction.

The introduction to plumbing course introduces student to plumbing theory, safety, tools and materials. Students will work through the Ontario Building Code sections that relate to plumbing. Practical experience will be gained working in the program’s shop.

“This program is an excellent opportunity to attend Canadore and explore the trades as a career while earning high school and college credits,” says Patricia Jackson, project leader at Canadore College. “Past students have gone on to complete the certificate at Canadore, and work in the trades.”

Young says the dual-credit program is a collaborative effort between all four co-terminus school boards, Canadore College and the Ministry of Education. They work with partners in the community and tackle labour market shortages, creating programs that give learners a head start to an education that will address labour needs in the community.

“The objective of the dual-credit program,” she says, “is to aid students who have the potential to succeed.” In addition to the college instructor, students will have the support of a secondary school staff member in the student success role. “The students have more support than they would in a regular college class,” says Young.

“The goal is to help students land jobs,” she says. This is an example of �����ٳ���’s commitment to Excellence in Innovation, and Excellence in Teaching and Learning, two of the pillars of the board’s multi-year strategic plan.

For more information, contact Alysha Young at Alysha.Young@nearnorthschools.ca or 705-472-5419 ext. 4066.

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Cutline information (Trades-1, Trades-2):

Students in the dual-credit Introduction to the Trades course can earn up to four credits; two towards their secondary school diploma, and two college course credits.

For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The Ministry of Education has provided funding for virtual learning to be in place for the 2022-2023 school year. There is no information about virtual education moving forward beyond next school year. With all of this in mind, we are registering students for 17�Թ���’s (NNDSB) Virtual School for online learning for the 2022-2023 school year.

NNDSB believes in-person learning best supports most students; however, we recognize that given unique circumstances, some families may want their child to learn remotely. In line with guidance from the Ministry of Education, NNDSB is offering a virtual learning option in September 2022.

We have created an online registration form to register your child(ren) for the upcoming school year. This learning placement will be for the entire school year. The registration link is located at the bottom of this communication.

Below are the requirements for the Virtual School program based on the Ministry of Education guidelines.

Virtual Learning – Asynchronous vs. Synchronous

NNDSB will offer virtual learning for both elementary and secondary students who wish to learn online. Most students have returned to in-person classes so our ability to offer a wide range of virtual learning programs during the 2022-2023 school year will be limited.

Virtual learning programs may be attended synchronously (in real-time, interactive with teacher and class) or asynchronously (with daily submission of work and check-ins but work done independently) but no paper packages will be made available. For most students, synchronous learning is the best way to support a positive learning environment. It is much more difficult to gain the full depth and breadth of experiences using the asynchronous learning method as there are limited interactions between peers and educators.

• Where there is no internet or technology at home, internet access (where available) and technology may be requested by families.

Virtual Learning: Elementary (VLE)

NNDSB will offer English language virtual learning for elementary students (Kindergarten to Grade 8) for the 2022-2023 school year. NNDSB cannot offer French Immersion, Extended French or any specialized programming virtually, due to limited numbers of students accessing those programs and the limited availability of qualified teachers.

• Families wanting French Immersion or Extended French should select in-person learning.
• Like this year, virtual learning will most likely include multi-grade combined classes.
• Students enrolled in VLE will be registered with NNDSB’s VLE school
  and not attached to their current home school.

Virtual Learning: Secondary (VLS)

NNDSB will offer virtual learning for secondary school students (Grades 9-12) for the 2022-2023 school year. The VLS will offer a limited selection of courses in each grade level in many program pathways. Secondary students have already completed course selections for next year and for students and families opting to attend VLS, every effort will be made to offer courses that students require for their chosen pathway to graduation.

• It is highly likely that all secondary students that are in virtual learning will have to take some e-learning courses, as there will be a limited selection of programming offered by NNDSB.
• System and school-specialized programs will only be available through in-person learning.
• The VLS will follow the same calendar and daily schedule as in-person programming.

Special Education Classes and IEPs (Individual Education Plans)

Our experience over the past two years has shown that in-person learning is the best format to support students with special education needs, particularly those students registered in a Special Education class through the identification, placement and review process. For this reason, in the 2022-2023 school year, Special Education classes will remain in-person only.

Other students with special education needs will continue to be supported with the necessary accommodations, modifications or alternative programs provided in their individual education plan (IEP), whether their choice is for in-person or virtual learning.

Registration for �����ٳ���’s Virtual School for 2022-2023 school year

If you would like to register your child(ren) please

Parents and guardians are asked to complete the form by Sunday, April 17th, 2022.

If you have questions, please reach out to the Virtual School secretary at virtualschool@nearnorthschools.ca.

We look forward to welcoming your children back to our safe, caring, and inclusive online classrooms in September 2022.

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

Dear Parents and Guardians,

This monthly Letter to Families is intended to keep you apprised of news that affects all students and families of 17�Թ��� (NNDSB). The Letter to Families is distributed on the first Friday of the month.

*

The Multi-Year Strategic Plan (MYSP) has been operationalized for several months now, and the MYSP committee is seeking input from stakeholders to measure gains or gaps in achievement. The survey is looking for respondents’ opinions about NNDSB, and progress in the four MYSP priorities of excellence in communication, excellence in relationships, excellence in teaching and learning and excellence in innovation.

Stakeholders (staff, students, families, co-terminus partners and members of the community) can access the survey until April 15.

*

(SMO), a provincial implementation support team, is looking for applicants to , a student group that helps develop and inform student mental health resources and programs. ThriveSMH supports the SMH-ON team, health professionals and community partners on projects that support student mental health.

They are seeking students in Grades 7-11 from publicly-funded schools across Ontario. Students with identities that have been historically disadvantaged, oppressed and marginalized are encouraged to apply.

The application is open until April 13, and two ThriveSMH student open houses have been organized for students and their families to learn more before applying. Students can click the links to register for one of two open house events scheduled for or .

*

Families are invited to a virtual meeting with to learn more about what homestay is and how to get involved.

The group works with local and international partners to provide services to thousands of visitors to Canada every year. MLI brings international secondary students to local schools, including ones in NNDSB. The students are matched with host families, who provide support in a family environment to young people from around the world. There is compensation for participating in homestay.

An online session is being held Wednesday, April 20 at 8 p.m. Here is the in advance for the session.

*

The Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) and School College Work Initiative (SCWI) team is proud to offer a new and exciting initiative called��Build a Pizza Night��to all secondary students and their families.

Build a Pizza Night is an engaging opportunity for students and their families to test their culinary talents while learning more about the pathways to the skilled trades. This will be a virtual experience guided by a red seal chef and hosted by OYAP and SCWI.

Each participating family will receive a pizza kit with the basic ingredients to create two pizzas and one dessert pizza.��NNDSB has been granted a��limited number of kits,��so it is important for those interested parents to register for the event ASAP! To register for this amazing opportunity, simply visit the NNDSB��Skills at Work��page and head to the . The deadline for registration is��April 13, 2022.

The pizza kits will be delivered to each participating secondary school one to two days prior to the event.��Each kit will arrive in a single cooler bag and labelled with the names of the participating family (parent’s name and contact information, and student’s name).

*

Registration is now open for families who are choosing attendance at the virtual school for the 2022-2023 school year. Families will have until April 17, 2022 to .

A Letter to Families specifically about virtual school is being distributed later today.

*

While masking for staff and students across the province is encouraged but no longer required, please remember that there are still situations where students are required to be masked while at school.

Students should remain masked for:

• 14 days upon arriving back in Canada after travelling;
• 10 days from initial exposure when they are a household member of a COVID-19 positive case/individual;
• 10 days after last exposure date when they have been identified as a close contact;
• 10 days total after symptom onset should they test positive for COVID-19;
• 48 hours after getting a COVID-19 vaccine or flu shot.

Masks continue to be available at all schools if students require one.

A reminder that students should continue to do the����each day before coming to school.

We thank our school communities for your cooperation as we work hard to ensure our schools stay safe and open for learning.

*

In addition to staying informed via the board’s website, families can find NNDSB on , and .

*

NNDSB follows the direction of the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health and the public health unit when devising COVID-19 plans.

Thank you,

17�Թ���

The following are the highlights of the 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) meeting of Tuesday, March 22, 2022.

Board recognizes outstanding students��

The Board of Trustees will be acknowledging outstanding students and members of school communities who have gone “above and beyond” and whose achievements exemplify the board’s strategic commitments outlined in the Multi-Year Strategic Plan (MYSP).

Guests will be invited to Board meetings to share how they are illustrating the four pillars of the plan: Excellence in Innovation; Excellence in Teaching and Learning; Excellence in Relationships; and Excellence in Communication.

The first presentation occurred at Tuesday night’s Board meeting, when Madison Moore of Chippewa Secondary School and Fionna Truong of West Ferris Secondary School were recognized. They are the 2022 recipients of the Rotary Club of North Bay’s Service Above Self Award, presented to students who exemplify warmth and caring towards their peers and others. The award program is intended to promote the values of the Rotary Club’s motto Service Above Self, to ensure youth are aware of the benefits of volunteerism.

More information about the presentation can be found in this media release.

Updated guidelines follow public consultation

After approval by executive council of the multi-year French as a Second Language (FSL) plan in December, three Administrative Guidelines (AG) were approved for review.

The Extended French AG, French Immersion AG and Core French AG were posted on the board’s website from Feb. 1 to March 5, 2022. Public feedback was incorporated into the final version of each AG, which were presented for approval at the exec council meeting on March 8, 2022.

Amendments focused on inclusion of the full-day kindergarten document and, revised FSL curriculum and including best practices that allow for flexibility to support school timetables, schedules and staffing strengths.

Director’s update

Director of Education Craig Myles presented a lengthy report to the Board, following the March Break.

He addressed the lifting of many COVID-19 restrictions and noted how the changes have resulted in mixed feelings as we move along in pandemic recovery. Myles expressed gratitude to the staff, students, families and community partners who have provided safe learning environments for students since March 2022.

There was also a mid-year update that detailed progress in the four areas of the MYSP. For each pillar in the plan, the Director’s goals are listed with indicators of achievements to date that show forward momentum in realizing the goals of the plan. Trustees were appreciative of the update, expressing pride and satisfaction in the work being done by staff.

Board Vice-Chair John Cochrane noted that with the launch of the personal support worker program, “we are leaders”. The program in smaller communities provides a service to both students and the partner healthcare facilities. Trustee Bill Steer said it was gratifying to be able to see how far the board has come in implementing the MYSP. Director Myles agreed, calling the amount of work and growth that has taken place throughout a pandemic “amazing”.

The complete mid-year update can be found beginning on Page 36 of the agenda package.

MYSP committee launches survey

Trustee Bill Steer, who chairs the MYSP committee, updated trustees on the committee’s on-going work. Following approval by trustees in June, and implementation beginning in September, the committee’s next step is to assess the plan’s effectiveness with the development of metrics.

To measure that, the committee and is seeking responses from a variety of stakeholder groups. The survey opened March 11 and will remain open until April 15. Once the survey closes, the committee will meet to review the data and establish metrics in order to present a report to the Board at its May meeting.

Trustee Steer called the measurement, “the last piece of the puzzle in this long process,” referring to the development and implementation of the MYSP.

Distribution and Determination Report approved

A Trustee Determination and Distribution report was presented, along with supplementary information from the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC). Before every municipal election, school boards are required to review and recommend the number of trustees and the areas they represent, in order to ensure fair and equitable representation of all public school supporters.

Following discussion in Committee of the Whole, a resolution was brought forward to approve that no changes would be made to trustee determination, and that trustee distribution will remain status quo.

�����ٳ���’s Board of Trustees is comprised of nine trustees; eight elected trustees and one First Nations trustee who is appointed to represent all First Nations who are NNDSB education partners.

Projects receive Trustee Initiative Fund support

Trustees approved supporting two projects through the Trustee Initiative Fund.

The Journey into Learning program of NNDSB will receive $7,520 to purchase 600 copies of the book This is What I’ve Been Told to be included in the Journey into Learning (JIL) kit for kindergarten students. The book was written by a NNDSB teacher and introduces the local Anishinaabemowin language and culture. The funding request noted that the book reflects the peoples, languages and cultures of this area, not other parts of Ontario or Canada, and that its inclusion in the JIL kit indicates the commitment of NNDSB to focus on Indigenous education.

The second request, for $7,500, was approved for the Festival of the Sound’s Music Scores program. The funding will see Music Scores programming in 10 NNDSB schools in the Parry Sound area over a two-week period. This year’s program will

encourage mastery of the creative process and critical thinking through Indigenous and sound-based storytelling. Three artists, led by Samantha Whelan-Kotkas of the National Arts Centre, will help students conceive, compose and present original works.

The two-week virtual residency will culminate in a final performance on April 8 feature music created together with students and the visiting artists.

Facilities Study Committee seeks name change

The North Bay Facilities Study Committee, an ad-hoc committee tasked with reviewing the board’s use of property assets in North Bay, received Board approval to be renamed the North Bay Consolidation Committee. The name change more accurately reflects the scope of the committee’s work.

The committee also presented a draft terms of reference, which was approved by the Board.

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Note: the full agenda package is posted on the website prior to meetings, and official minutes are posted after they are approved at the next board meeting.

For more information, please contact:
Deb Bartlett (she/her)
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170 ext. 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Outstanding NNDSB students recognized at Board meeting

At last night’s meeting of 17�Թ��� (NNDSB), trustees heard the first of what will be a series of presentations that recognize students who go “above and beyond”.

The Board will welcome students and members of school communities who embody the board’s strategic commitments established within the Multi-Year Strategic Plan (MYSP). Invited guests will explain how their actions exemplify the MYSP pillars of Excellence in Teaching and Learning, Excellence in Innovation, Excellence in Relationships and Excellence in Communication.

By hearing presentations, the Board of Trustees will be able to recognize students and support the entrenchment of the board’s MYSP priorities within school communities.

Board Chair Jay Aspin said, “It is significant that our Board of Trustees recognize outstanding students and members of the school community that go ‘above and beyond’ to fulfill the commitments set out in our strategic plan.”

The first of the presentations acknowledged the work of students Madison Moore of Chippewa Secondary School and Fionna Truong of West Ferris Secondary School. The pair was recently honoured by the Rotary Club of North Bay as recipients of the 2022 Service Above Self award. The award criteria include how students demonstrate warmth and caring towards peers or others. The Rotary Club’s student awards program is intended to promote the values of the club’s motto, Service Above Self, and ensure students know of the benefits of volunteerism.

Madison Moore was recognized at the Board for embodying Excellence in Relationships. A Grade 12 student, Madison has accumulated almost 400 volunteer hours since 2018. She is an athlete who recognizes the value of dedication and teamwork. Most of her volunteer hours were acquired in the sport of hockey and at tournaments such as the boys’ OFSAA tournament.

Fionna Truong is a Grade 11 student in the Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM) program. She was recognized by the Board for illustrating Excellence in Innovation because of being an integral part of the robotics world in North Bay. She has been a team captain for FIRST Robotics, a build captain for Team 1305 and volunteers as a mentor with FLL (Lego) team at West Ferris. She has also worked with other student on a UV Cube Development Project that addressed the healthcare challenge of sterilizing personal protective equipment. Fionna is a team member working on a business plan to move the project into the production phase.

“These two students are shining examples that permit us to realize that commitment and I am very pleased our Board of Trustees has formally recognized their accomplishments,” said Chair Aspin.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) Releases the “Right to Read” Report

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The North Bay and District Multicultural Centre is marking the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination with its annual Students Who Make a Difference event on Wednesday, March 23, 2022.

This year’s event will be streamed at 1 p.m. so all classes and families in the 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) school community are able to watch.

This year, a student from each of Vincent Massey Public School and Silver Birches Public School, and one secondary and one intermediate student from F.J. McElligott Secondary School are being recognized as Students Who Make a Difference.

The event is being held March 23, at 1 p.m. and can be accessed at via .

If you’re unable to watch live on March 23, the event is being recorded, and will be found on the website.

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

Student project aims to use education to eradicate racism

Spearheaded by two Grade 11 students, a mural being unveiled at Chippewa Secondary School commemorates Black history and the power of education to eradicate racism.

The project was designed and coordinated by Rainat Salako and Omobola Agboola as their Creativity, Activity Service (CAS) project in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program.

Rainat says, “This project began because I wanted to think of a way to bring cultural awareness to the school. As a student of colour, I felt as if I was not being represented in the art around me. I wanted to change that and help others feel welcomed and acknowledged at our school. I believe this project will help to accomplish that.”

“I wanted to do this project because I believed that our school needed some more representation from the Black community, not just during Black History Month but also throughout the year and the years to come. I believe this mural is a great way to leave a legacy and to give a friendly reminder to people about the Black community, not just once a year but every day,” says Omobola.

She and Rainat said the project had a few challenges, which were overcome with support from their project sponsor, staff and students.

The project came to fruition with the help of Ashley Oszytko, an intermediate art teacher at Chippewa who took the lead on supporting the students. Oszytko says,
“Representation in our schools is so important and this mural will be a reminder that all Chippewa students are beautiful, strong, and important. We embrace different cultures, races, genders, and beliefs here at Chippewa, and the raised clenched fist will now be a permanent reminder that anti-racism begins here in the hallways of our schools.”

Stephanie Silverthorn, the IB CAS coordinator, helped the girls develop their idea, coordinate the logistics of sourcing materials and arranging working sessions with volunteers. She says, “The purpose of the CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) project is to enable students to work collaboratively in a leadership capacity to enact positive change. Rainat and Omobola have done a beautiful job of identifying a concept that is of importance both to them individually and to our school community as a whole. Their vision and teamwork have resulted in a powerful piece of art that will have a lasting impact on the students and staff within our building. I am so proud of them.”

Chippewa’s principal, Krista Tucker Petrick, is grateful for the legacy created by Rainat and Omobola. “They generously shared their vision to showcase Black brilliance during Black History month and to ensure that there was artwork in the school that reflected African, Caribbean and Black identifying students.��The dedication of Omobola and Rainat is evident in the wonderful mural that has been created and will be hung in the halls of the school.��Staff here are appreciative of the effort and care that went into the organization and painting of the artwork and the daily information that was shared by these students on the announcements during February.

“I am grateful to Rainat and Omobola for being such amazing leaders in the school. I would also like to express my thanks to Dr. Julius Agboola for sponsoring the mural,” says Tucker Petrick.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Staff are proud of the students’ initiative and compassion towards others in need.

Principal Alison Herst agreed to a student-run spirit week, during which students paid $1 to wear a hat or hoodie (Monday), yellow and blue (Tuesday), a TV, movie or video game clothes (Wednesday) or PJs (Thursday).

The Grades 5/6 class created posters, wrote announcements and visited each class to gather donations.

Cogeco came to do a story (scheduled to air March 10) on the student fundraiser.

Congrats to the Grades 5/6 Spartans for their efforts!

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Further to our letter of Wednesday, March 9, please find below an update to COVID-19 health and safety measures. All changes below are effective March 21, 2022.

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Masks will no longer be required for students, staff, visitors and spectators in schools, school board offices and on student transportation. Eye protection for staff will also no longer be required. Some students and staff may choose to continue wearing masks and eye protection.

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Anyone returning from international travel must wear a mask at all times when in public spaces (including school and childcare) and maintain a list of all close contacts for the first 14 days in Canada. Individuals must also monitor themselves for signs and symptoms of COVID-19.

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Cohorting and distancing will no longer be required in schools. Assigned seats and cohorting will no longer be required in student transportation.

Elementary students can play and learn together across cohorts, classes and grades, indoors and outdoors, and during lunch and recess. Shared spaces such as libraries, tech labs, theatres and music rooms can be fully utilized without distancing.

Limitations on in-person gatherings and assemblies will also be removed; therefore, schools can plan and host in-person events (e.g., proms, graduation ceremonies, and assemblies).

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Daily on-site confirmation of screening for all students and staff will no longer be required. Staff and students should continue to self-screen every day before attending school using the COVID-19 school and childcare .

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The board will continue to use rapid antigen tests (RATs) to support symptomatic testing only for staff, students and children. 17�Թ��� are expected to continue distributing RATs to staff and students who return from an unplanned absence.

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NNDSB will be modifying its contact management guidance:

• Asymptomatic individuals who are close contacts of a case or a symptomatic individual in the community are no longer required to isolate but must self-monitor for 10 days following last exposure. During the self-monitoring period, close contacts must wear a well-fitted mask in all public settings and avoid activities where they need to take off their mask (for example, playing a wind instrument in music class or playing high-contact sports).
• Asymptomatic household contacts of a case or a symptomatic individual are also not required to isolate if they are 17 or younger and fully vaccinated; 18 and older and have already received their COVID-19 booster; or tested positive for COVID19 in the last 90 days and have completed their isolation period. Asymptomatic household contacts who are not required to isolate are also required to self-monitor for 10 days following last exposure, as outlined above. Children under five who are asymptomatic household contacts are required to isolate for five days. The COVID-19 school and childcare screening tool has been updated to align with the recent changes made to federal travel requirements.

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In addition to staying informed via the board’s website, families can find NNDSB on , and .

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NNDSB follows the direction of the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health and the public health unit when devising COVID-19 plans.

Thank you,

17�Թ���

Survey will measure MYSP implementation status

17�Թ���’s (NNDSB) Multi-Year Strategic Plan (MYSP) committee is seeking survey responses to measure the implementation status of the 2021- 2026 MYSP. The five-year plan was approved by the Board in June 2021 and implementation began in September 2021.

The MYSP was developed after extensive consultation with a variety of stakeholder groups, which identified key priorities for the board. Now that the plan has been operationalized for several months, the committee is keen to measure both status and progress. The metrics for measurement are aligned closely to the MYSP goals.

The MYSP committee, chaired by Trustee Bill Steer, has developed metrics for each of the four pillars of the MYSP (excellence in teaching and learning, excellence in innovation, excellence in relationships and excellence in communication).

Committee Chair Steer says, “We recognize how our MYSP is an organic document, so this survey is intended to keep us informed on how our community feels about our progress. Data collection is essential to measuring our progress, so we are looking for feedback from all stakeholders, as part of our ongoing data collection strategy.”

“In June of last year, our board completed an extensive participatory process which culminated in our five-year MYSP to serve as our roadmap over the years 2021-2026. To be consistent with this process, this survey will continue to engage the participation of all stakeholders. Just as importantly, it will provide us with valuable benchmark metrics that will assist our board in assessing the progress of this strategic plan from year to year,” says Board Chair Jay Aspin.

The can be found on the board’s website and is open from March 11 until April 15, 2022.

Once the data is collected, it will give the MSYP committee an indication of which areas are successfully moving ahead according to the plan. The committee plans to review data and present a report to the Board at its May meeting.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Dear Parents and Guardians,

This letter is to advise you that Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Kieran Moore, announced several changes that may affect 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) students and staff after the March Break.

NNDSB will review material from the Ministry of Education and consult with the Nipissing Parry Sound District Health Unit to devise next steps. Information will be communicated with families via letter, the website and social media.

NNDSB follows the direction of the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health and the public health unit when devising COVID-19 plans.

Thank you,

17�Թ���

Dear Parents and Guardians,

This monthly Letter to Families is intended to keep you apprised of news that affects all students and families of 17�Թ��� (NNDSB). The Letter to Families is distributed on the first Friday of the month.

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School staff, students, and their families have welcomed the resumption of high contact and high-intensity extracurricular activities as permitted by the Ministry of Education.

Further to this, the Ministry of Health has recommended that individuals who have completed a five-day isolation period after testing positive for COVID-19, experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, or being identified as a household contact of someone with presumed COVID continue to wear a well-fitted mask in all public settings. As such, this recommendation is also being applied to the return of extracurricular sports and music activities. Until further notice, students who participate in high contact/high-intensity extracurricular activities must self-assess their individual situations and decide if the following recommended options apply to their situations.

When returning to these activities following a five-day isolation period it is recommended that:

1) Students choose to return to the activity on Day 6 and wear a mask during the activity (i.e.: basketball or hockey) for Days 6-10 or

2) Students choose to return to the activity on Day 11, following their isolation period.

The rationale for this recommendation is that the Omicron variant can still be transmitted up to 10 days after symptom onset (National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Japan). Parents are encouraged to speak to their children about these options and communicate with the school coach/team leader.

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While many COVID-19 restrictions have recently been lifted by the provincial government, it is important for students and families to understand that schools adhere to guidelines from the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education and local public health units.

At this time, �����ٳ���’s COVID-19 policies around school visitors, spectators for sports and masking have not changed. As always, principals will share any important COVID-19 updates directly with students and their families.

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The Ministry of Education recently announced that virtual learning will continue to be available for students in Kindergarten to Grade 12 for the 2022-2023 school year. NNDSB has begun the initial planning for next year.

Further information regarding virtual learning and registration information will be sent to all families in the coming weeks and will be made available on our website.

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It is that time of year again when we look to welcome our newest and youngest learners into the NNDSB family! If you have a child who was born on or before Dec 31, 2018, they are eligible to begin school this September. Registration has never been easier; simply follow this��link��to our Kindergarten Registration page and complete the form. We strongly recommend that families register as soon as possible.

Your child’s school will be conducting Journey into Learning events this spring to share information about your child’s kindergarten classroom, program and school community; call your local school to find out more!

Kindergarten students may also be registered in French Immersion. That program runs throughout the district at Parry Sound Public School, Alliance and Sunset Park Public 17�Թ��� in North Bay and Mattawa District Public School. Information about French Immersion at NNDSB can be found��.

The early years team is also offering parents the opportunity to learn about French Immersion kindergarten programs at a virtual event being held March 23 at 6 p.m. Families can register using this��.��This session will provide families with an overview of the French Immersion program, discuss ways in which families can support their children at home, and answer questions.

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NNDSB works in partnership with the Canadian Ecology Centre in Mattawa to provide a variety of full-credit courses that take place in the summer.

Students live and learn on-site, and courses take place over a two-week period. This is a great way for secondary students to get an early start on credits and participate in experiential learning.

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Below is information from �����ٳ���’s program team:

Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) and Right to Read report:

The Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) released its Right to Read report Feb. 28, 2022, on human rights issues affecting students with reading disabilities. The report called for critical changes to Ontario’s approach to early reading, in areas such as curriculum and instruction, screening, reading interventions, accommodations and professional assessments.��Here are links to the and .

In anticipation of this report, the NNDSB program team, in collaboration with the special education department, has been working over the past two years to grow capacity in comprehensive literacy assessment, instruction��and intervention. Our central staff have conducted a review of current literacy practices and renewed our commitment to ensuring all students develop skills in service of reading, writing and communicating.��Acknowledging that the Ministry will need time to synthesize the report and provide direction to school boards,��we remain focused on preparing staff to achieve the recommendations included in the final OHRC Right to Read report and improving the outcomes for all NNDSB students.

EQAO: Grades 3 and 6 assessments of reading, writing and mathematics:

The Ministry of Education is resuming��primary and junior EQAO assessments this year. The information gathered by these standard assessments in math and literacy will allow��our education system to better understand the impact of the pandemic over time and inform investments in��learning recovery and renewal. The EQAO assessments have been modernized and are now offered as an online, digital assessment.

Last week, EQAO released the new assessment framework for Grades 3 and 6,��which provides a detailed description of the new online format of the primary and junior division assessments of reading, writing and mathematics. The on��EQAO’s website.��The framework details how the assessment is mapped to the Ontario curriculum.

Students, parents and educators have the opportunity to become familiar with the digital assessments and the e-assessment platform through��EQAO’s online Grades 3 and 6 sample assessments. Accessibility features, such as a text-to-speech feature, are built into the e-assessment platform, and the platform also interfaces with other accessibility software tools commonly used by students. Other features (such as highlighting, line drawing and eraser tools) are available to all students as they write the assessments. Use these links to access the sample assessments: and

We will continue to share information about the new EQAO assessments as it becomes available.

Grade 4 students learning to code:

Grade 4 students from across NNDSB will be embarking on a synchronous coding learning experience in partnership with Google and the Cobblestone Initiative.��This live coding event takes place from March 29-31��and includes live events and a Q & A session for educators.

This innovative model will allow teachers to access classroom-embedded STEM professional learning while students will benefit from live interactive coding experiences delivered by online coding experts.

Indigenous Cultural Advisors:

In partnership with the Anishinabek Education System (AES) and Participating First Nations (PFNs), we are thrilled to announce that two cultural advisors have been hired (contracted by Moose Deer Point and Dokis) to establish connections and relationships with board and school staff, students, and local community, and to build, develop, and increase an understanding of Anishinaabe history, culture, knowledge, teachings and protocols.

Rodney Stanger and Tasheena Sarazin visit schools regularly to support capacity building and professional development, help develop and deliver cultural and land-based activities, facilitate special events, host socials and luncheons with staff and students, connect schools with local Elders/Knowledge Keepers and develop cultural resources and guidelines/protocols.

Check out this SWAY for more information and to see pictures and videos.

Intermediate (Grades 7-10) PowerUp Literacy intervention:

K-12 program department and special education staff worked in partnership to��acquire a resource to support intermediate literacy learning.

Lexia PowerUp has been launched in all schools with students in Grades 7-10. This resource is designed to enhance core English language arts instruction for non-proficient readers. PowerUp Literacy accelerates the development of both fundamental literacy skills and higher order thinking skills through personalized learning paths. PowerUp Literacy addresses the instructional needs of a wide range of students, from struggling to nearly proficient readers, by identifying skill gaps and providing personalized, systematic instruction in word study, grammar, and comprehension.�� These new literacy tools will help teachers plan daily classroom instruction and assessment that are systematic, evidence-based and assess foundational reading skills, provide differentiated and personalized instruction and set appropriate learning goals with their students.

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Each year school boards in our district work with the District Social Services Administration Boards to conduct a childcare��viability��survey.��This year the survey is open from��Monday, Feb. 28 until Friday, March 11.

The goal of this��survey��is to understand the need for��childcare��programs for school-aged��children (ages��3.8-12 years).��The survey results inform the number of programs that operate within our schools, so it is very important that parents take the time to communicate their childcare needs for the 2022-2023 school year via this survey. The survey can be accessed via .

Please note, NNDSB does not provide the childcare; the board works with community partners that are the service providers, often in childcare spaces located in schools.

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In addition to staying informed via the board’s website, families can find NNDSB on , and .

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NNDSB follows the direction of the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health and the public health unit when devising COVID-19 plans.

Thank you,

17�Թ���

PSW students heading to class for the first time today

Thirty new students packed their bags and headed to school today as they engage in the inaugural personal support worker (PSW) courses being offered by 17�Թ��� (NNDSB). The courses are being held in Parry Sound and North Bay.

In a unique educational opportunity, NNDSB partnered with healthcare facilities to provide living classrooms, in which students learn theory in a classroom then apply the knowledge on the floor of a long-term care home.

Today, 18 students headed to class at Cassellholme in North Bay, and 12 started class at Belvedere Heights in Parry Sound. The board intends to start a PSW program in September in West Nipissing and Mattawa.

Gracie Liritzis is one of those students. She’s been out of school for six years and admits to being hesitant to apply for the program. “Do I remember how to study? I’m an adult with adult responsibilities – will I be able to manage my time?” she asks. On the flip side, Liritzis says, “I’ve had a lot of life experiences. I’m not as scared of failure or have a fear of being wrong. I’m able to handle constructive criticism and learn from it.”

She applied to the program after working in several fields but wanted an active role in her community and to feel fulfilled at the end of the day. “It is really important for me to feel like I’ve contributed to something, and I wasn’t getting that in other professions,” says Liritzis.

NNDSB Board Chair Jay Aspin notes that the development and launch of the PSW program demonstrates the board’s commitment��to the pillars of excellence��in its recently developed��Multi-Year Strategic Plan. “This program embodies excellence in innovation and excellence in relationships, two of the four pillars of��that plan. It is through this type of work that NNDSB staff are reshaping what public education can look like and how the board can contribute to the communities it serves.”

Upon completion of the program, Liritzis and her classmates will be fully trained PSWs with experience on the floor of a long-term care home. For program partners, seeing the students develop every day is like a months-long job interview; many students will wind up with employment offers. Across the province, there is a PSW shortage, which programs like this can address.

Director of Education Craig Myles says the board’s ability to help fill that employment gap was a major impetus for developing the program. “NNDSB has the opportunity to grow stronger community relationships while encouraging learners to come back to school. Our staff live and work in communities throughout the district, and we are proud to be able to contribute to educating the workforce that will support us and our families in healthcare.”

Instructors for the courses are Nancy Corbett in North Bay and Nicole Robinson in Parry Sound. Both are Registered Practical Nurses (RPN) with backgrounds and experience in long-term care. That depth and breadth of knowledge in providing hands-on care will serve the PSW students well.

Corbett has worked as a RPN at Cassellholme for 25 years and has been a preceptor for RPN students completing their consolidation. She’s excited about teaching the PSW program in a living classroom. “Students will have the chance to learn in a very practical and hands-on setting, which I believe will provide the students with the skills and confidence to be successful in their new PSW career,” she says.

The healthcare sector has a need for PSWs that Corbett says is particularly great in the long-term care sector. She was interested in becoming a NNDSB instructor because “it is a great way to give back to the healthcare profession and Cassellholme. I want to help ensure the newly trained PSW’s are ready to provide excellent care for their residents/clients.” Her goal is to “show students how rewarding a career in healthcare is, and that what they do every day and the interactions they have with their residents/clients will have an enormous impact in their lives.”

Liritzis says her experience through the application process has been positive, and she’s felt supported through the process. To people who are unsure of applying to the PSW program, she says, “do it! It’s free.” She’s grateful for the opportunity to start a career in healthcare. “You’re so young in high school and expected to make big decisions that I just wasn’t ready for,” she says. She’s grateful for a second chance.

Anyone interested in applying for another course should submit this registration form and email it to alysha.young@nearnorthschools.ca.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

SAFER SCHOOLS! tool launched on Pink Shirt Day

17�Թ��� (NNDSB) is enthusiastically celebrating Pink Shirt Day today with several activities and initiatives. Across the district, students and staff are wearing pink in support of anti-bullying initiatives.

Elementary students at Woodland, Parry Sound and Vincent Massey Public 17�Թ��� will be hearing from Travis Price, one of the founders of Pink Shirt Day, which started in 2007 after Travis and his friend David led their school in wearing pink after hearing about a Grade 9 student who had been bullied for the same thing. Price will be speaking to students across Canada in the Pink Shirt Day National Broadcast. His message will celebrate kindness and discuss how kids can reduce bullying and increase inclusion and positive relationships in their schools and communities.

This year’s Pink Shirt Day theme, Lift Each Other Up, reminds us all of the power behind making positive choices that support diversity and inclusion. When we lift each other up, we all feel safe, welcomed and valued. To further celebrate Pink Shirt Day, NNDSB is launching a new look for our SAFER SCHOOLS! Reporting Tool. The tool will ensure our schools are as safe, welcoming and inclusive as possible, as it can be used to report incidents related to bullying and/or discrimination.

“Bullying in the form of physical, verbal, social or cyber, is often found to be related to discrimination,” says �����ٳ���’s Principal of Safe 17�Թ���, Emily Samuel. “When someone treats another person badly or denies them a privilege based on a Human Rights Code such as race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or disability, it’s discrimination. In recognizing the relationship between acts of bullying and mentalities of discrimination, NNDSB schools are combating this issue using anti-racism education, culturally responsive and relevant teaching approaches, and whole-school anti-bullying initiatives to create spaces that value diversity.”

NNDSB is committed to the safety and well-being of students, staff, and all members of the school community and will ensure that programs are in place to educate the school community about discrimination and bullying and to respond to these incidents appropriately.

When schools become aware of these incidents, steps can be taken to assist all individuals involved to repair the harm and restore the relationship. When we support the rights of all, schools become safer places.

Learn more about the tool today by visiting the Safe and Accepting 17�Թ��� page of our website.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Board Highlights for February meeting

The following are the highlights of the 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) meeting of Tuesday, Feb. 15, 2022.��

Final version of Administrative Guideline presented

Following the public consultation, trustees were presented with the final version of the board’s Supporting Students with Prevalent Medical Conditions Administrative Guideline. This administrative guideline consolidates three others: administration of medication, anaphylaxis and epilepsy seizure disorder management.

The new guideline contains detailed and specific information on anaphylaxis, asthma, diabetes and epilepsy. Each condition has its own section that includes information on definitions, terminology, education, training, response and resources, special considerations and a plan of care.

Board supports establishing NNDSB Foundation��

The Board received a report following the annual general meeting of the board’s charitable arm, NNDSB Charity Works.

An update was shared to note NNDSB Charity Works will be exploring the establishment of a foundation to complement the work of the charity in support of �����ٳ���’s commitments in Multi-Year Strategic Plan (MYSP) to the pillar of Excellence in Relationships.

Currently the charity provides scholarships and bursaries for academic achievement and helped with school supplies and breakfast programs. Board Chair Jay Aspin has requested the investigation of a NNDSB Foundation to enhance this work and expand

the Board’s ability to fundraise and expand the ability to support its schools. Several school boards in Ontario have foundations, which receive donations from local business, grants, community organizations and citizens. The funds are used to support a variety of programs and initiatives.

Trustees passed a resolution at the Board meeting to express their support for this approach and Chair Aspin said he was “very excited” about the potential a foundation could bring to NNDSB.

Chair expresses confidence in COVID-19 management

Trustees were presented with a fulsome report by SO Tim Graves, the board’s COVID-19 lead, that detailed the processes and plans that have assisted the board in managing the pandemic.

The report includes information about new screening tools (one for school and childcare, one for absence reporting), the status of access and distribution to personal protective equipment (PPE) for staff, the supply of rapid antigen tests to daycares, students and staff, the status of athletics and extracurricular activities at schools and the youth vaccine clinics that the health unit is holding.

COVID-19 news, guidance documents, testing instructions, letters to families, health unit information and links can be found on this page of the board’s website.

Director updates on staff absences, PSW program

Current health guidance states that when someone is experiencing two or more COVID-19 symptoms, they are presumed to be positive and they, and all members of the household should self-isolate. Director of Education Craig Myles said that is causing NNDSB to experience significant absences that are difficult to fill. The staff absences are not unique to NNDSB; boards across the province are experiencing similar difficulties.

Director Myles also updated trustees about the personal support worker (PSW) program that the board is launching district wide. He thanked media partners who shared news of the initiative and helped create awareness of the program. There are 18 students in North Bay and 12 in Parry Sound ready to start at the end of the month, with a waitlist for a September class.

Trustee Steer shares report from OPSBA

Trustee Bill Steer, �����ٳ���’s delegate to the Ontario Public School Boards’ Association (OPSBA), gave a brief recap of work that the organization is doing in its advocacy of public education.

His report included a suggestion that stronger language be used in reference to reconciliation, and that OPSBA needed to prioritize equity and anti-racism as a whole. He also noted that equity geography; that what works in Toronto does not necessarily fit in the North or other areas with different demographics.

He also shared news of a created by OPSBA and the Ontario Student Trustees’ Association.Later in the Board meeting trustees carried a motion to bring forward a recommendation to OPSBA to continue with virtual meetings as it transitions out of pandemic in an effort to reduce environmental/carbon footprint. During Committee of the Whole, trustees noted how virtual meetings encourage broader participation and create expanded opportunities for input, together with the positive effects on the environment.

MYSP committee update

Some changes to the MYSP committee’s terms of reference were approved at the Board meeting. The changes include expanded membership to include the Officer of Corporate Affairs, and the clarification of additional duties related to the development and monitoring of appropriate metrics.

There was also a report, introduced by Committee Chair Steer, and provided by Director Myles, to update the Board about the MYSP. Committee Chair Steer noted that the work of the committee has evolved from the design and creation of a visionary plan and its corresponding goals to the work of bringing the vision to reality.

Included in the report was a graphic depicting the steps in the evolution of culture change at NNDSB. The steps include empowering employees and stakeholders to lead and embrace change, and the MYSP incorporating new and better changes. Director Myles noted how organizational change experts caution that large-scale culture change could take five to10 years. Director Myles acknowledged that many people may be experiencing discomfort in the change, and change agents will have to honour where people are to help bridge the space between where the board is and where it wants to be.

Next steps for the committee include establishing metrics that will focus on the measurement of MYSP success. This involves establishing baseline data, determining the time and learning required for the change (the work) and how to evaluate progress against the baseline data, which is the measurement of achieving the MYSP priorities. The next MYSP committee meeting will tackle the development of qualitative and quantitative base metrics.

March Board meeting date changed

Because the regularly scheduled March 2022 Board meeting fell in the March Break, the Board approved moving the March meeting to Tuesday, March 22, 2022.

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Note: the full agenda package is posted on the website prior to meetings, and official minutes are posted after they are approved at the next board meeting.

For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett (she/her)
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170 ext. 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

NNDSB committed to Indigenous Education in schools

At 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) our approach in supporting Indigenous Education priorities and initiatives focuses on equitable outcomes for learners.

The made ; 12 of them involve education. Specifically, we are called to action in education on numbers 62 and 63. This includes all students having diverse learning opportunities to gain understanding of First Nation, Métis and Inuit language, history, culture and perspectives throughout all curriculum areas.

Annually, a is developed alongside of the Indigenous Education Advisory Circle. We implement this plan through four pillars: supporting students; supporting teachers; awareness and engagement; and using data to support student achievement.

Through this lens, we are able to target resources and support ways that promote student success, engagement and well-being.

Learners are offered various opportunities throughout the curriculum including First Nation, Métis and Inuit studies and Anishinaabemowin courses. This is vitally important in the board’s reconciliation efforts; staff and students need to be aware of Indigenous perspectives, ways of knowing and the history of the lands now known as Canada.

This year, in support of building this capacity for all staff, NNDSB has purchased a license for an unlimited number of learners to participate in 4 Seasons of Reconciliation, which is a 2.5-hour online session supporting cultural competency learning. The Indigenous Education team has set a goal of 70 per cent staff completion by December 2022.

This learning is meaningfully connected��as we acknowledge our responsibilities to the TRC calls to action in education.��We strive towards excellence in relationship building in��recognition of our need to be continuous learners alongside of community and partners in Indigenous Education.

The Indigenous Youth Circle appointed Allen Lewis as Indigenous Student Trustee for the 2021-2022 school year at the Board’s January 2022 meeting. This role ensures student voice from the Indigenous Youth Circle is represented at Board meetings.

news about Indigenous Education at NNDSB will be forthcoming. Our Indigenous Education Team is working in partnership with staff, students and community partners to plan for the 2022-2023 school year.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Chair expresses confidence in management of COVID-19

At last night’s Board meeting, trustees were given an update on COVID-19 processes and plans. They expressed confidence in the way senior administration is managing the pandemic in 17�Թ��� (NNDSB).

Superintendent Tim Graves, the board’s COVID-19 lead, provided a fulsome report to trustees on a wide range of topics related to COVID-19 and how the board is managing everything from personal protective equipment (PPE) to reporting tools.

Board Chair Jay Aspin noted, “everyone knows what a hard job it has been, navigating these past two years through a pandemic.”

“On behalf of the board, I am obliged to give a special shout out to all members of our Near North team. With the continually disruptive program changes, this has been a very exasperating experience for all. Whether it’s been the provision of PPE equipment, rapid tests, screening tools, reporting tools or now vaccine clinics you have done an extremely commendable job of keeping our students and staff safe which is always our first priority,” said Chair Aspin. “As well, a sincere shout out to parents and guardians of our students and relatives of staff. Your understanding, patience and support have been exceptional and is much appreciated.”

Trustees heard that the board is working with the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit which is offering child vaccine clinics. 17�Թ��� around the district have been the site of clinics, held outside of school hours.

Two new screening tools were discussed; the updated , which clarifies isolation periods and close contacts, and the absence reporting tool which is used by principals when the absenteeism rate is 30 per cent or higher for two consecutive days, when inclement weather and/or bus cancellations are not a factor.

When non-fit-tested N95 masks were sent to NNDSB in early January, there were only enough to last for eight days. Student-facing staff were prioritized, including daycare staff, special education staff and elementary teachers. The full allotment has since been received, and the board has a supply ready for all staff upon request. Additionally, there is an adequate supply of medical masks and three-ply cloth masks for students.

NNDSB has a supply of rapid antigen tests available. Initially, 17,280 tests were distributed to daycares, elementary students and staff; a second allocation was made available for secondary school students and occasional staff. The kits come in packages of 20 tests and are re-kitted and distributed to schools. Testing is voluntary, and people with symptoms who choose not to test are presumed positive and should isolate immediately.

Secondary schools in the board returned to the semester system on Jan. 31. An initial review of data shows students continued to be successful through the octomester model, and the report acknowledged the work of school staff throughout octomesters to supports student success.

The final report item detailed the status of athletics and extracurricular activities at schools. The winter sports season was paused in early winter, but Minister of Education Stephen Lecce announced that certain restrictions could be lifted as of last week. NNDSB works with the health unit and co-terminus boards to develop a local strategy for all aspects of COVID-19 planning; as of yesterday, high-contact/high-intensity sports and music and band activities were able to resume.

Director of Education Craig Myles acknowledged that managing the pandemic throughout the board has been a massive job, requiring coordination with many colleagues in health and education. “Under the leadership of SO Graves, and System Principal of Well-Being Kim Pauli, �����ٳ���’s COVID-19 management team has guided our staff through another difficult year. Their recommendations have mitigated the risk of COVID-19 to staff and students. I would again like to express my sincere appreciation to all those who have stepped to the plate to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of staff and students, which remains the number one priority in all of our decisions.”

COVID-19 news, guidance documents, testing instructions, letters to families, health unit information and links can be found on this page of the board’s website.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Kindergarten students can be enrolled in French Immersion

A virtual information session is being held for families who want to learn more about enrolling their kindergarten student in French Immersion with 17�Թ��� (NNDSB). The session is being held Wednesday, March 23 at 6 p.m.

Families can register for the session .

Early French Immersion is offered in four of the board’s elementary schools: Alliance and Sunset Park Public 17�Թ��� in North Bay; Mattawa District Public School and Parry Sound Public School.

Benefits of learning a second language include increased mental flexibility, improved problem-solving skills, a better understanding of aspects of different cultures and expanded career opportunities. More information about the benefits of French as a second language can be found in this .

Information about French Immersion at NNDSB can be found here.

Families can learn more about French as a Second Language in NNDSB schools by downloading this brochure.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Dear Parents and Guardians,

17�Թ��� (NNDSB) is supports school vaccine clinics for students aged 5 to 11, who are eligible for COVID-19 vaccination.

Please use this link to a letter from the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit which invites families to participate in a survey to help then in planning future youth vaccination clinics in the district.

The letter advises families to keep scheduled appointments and provides information on how to book an appointment.

Thank you,

17�Թ���

Dear Parents and Guardians,

This monthly Letter to Families is intended to keep you apprised of news that affects all students and families of 17�Թ��� (NNDSB). The Letter to Families is distributed on the first Friday of the month.

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In recent weeks there have been several weather-related bus cancellations, as well as delays due to driver shortages. We understand that cancellations and delays, especially ones that are announced later in the morning, may cause upheaval to some families’ plans.

NNDSB is a member board of a consortium that provides transportation services to schools. (NPSSTS or the consortium) provides the service, not the board. The they have in place provide details of cancellations will occur. Cancellations are made to maintain the safety of NNDSB students and bus drivers.

When NNDSB receives notification that the consortium has cancelled a route or corridor, we post on the board’s social media accounts (see links at the end of this letter). Full details can be found on NPSSTS’s .

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As students have returned to school, they continue to be expected to complete the daily COVID-19 self-screening tool. Occasionally, students may be required to self-isolate, as a precautionary measure. Considering these circumstances, NNDSB has developed a plan to support ‘short-term’ remote learning.

Central staff will work in collaboration with classroom educators to support students who may be required to access remote learning for short periods of time. Short-term (Kindergarten to Grade 8) remote learning resources include technology enabled synchronous learning experiences (or live events), facilitated by program coordinators, librarians and Indigenous cultural advisors.

Furthermore, after-school virtual/synchronous tutoring is now available to all (Kindergarten to Grade 12) students to support them in continuing their learning during short-term absences. To learn more about these short-term learning supports, please contact your child’s educator.

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It is that time of year again when we look to welcome our newest and youngest learners into the NNDSB family! If you have a child who was born on or before Dec 31, 2018, they are eligible to begin school this September. Registration has never been easier: simply follow this��link��to our Kindergarten Registration page and complete the form. We strongly recommend that families register as soon as possible.

The Early Years Team is also offering parents three opportunities to learn about kindergarten programs in Near North. These virtual events will occur on Feb 10, 16, and 22, 2022, all starting at 6 p.m. Parents can register using the QR code found on our��Kindergarten webpage.

These sessions will provide parents with an overview of the Ontario kindergarten curriculum, what kindergarten in NNDSB looks like and answer any questions parents may have. Your child’s school will also be conducting parent sessions this spring: stay tuned for more information or call your local school to find out more!

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Tuesday, Feb 8 is Safer Internet Day. To support the safety and well-being of NNDSB students, we encourage all parents to attend the presentation ONLINE DANGERS: Online Child Sexual Exploitation and Cyberbullying. This is an online panel presented by Public Safety Canada, that will tackle some of the most difficult topics that youth, parents, and caregivers face today – cyberbullying to online child sexual exploitation. A panel of experts from the��,����and the��, will define the issues, tell parents and caregivers what to look out for, and discuss how they can talk to their kids.

Though this panel is tailored towards parents and caregivers, much of the information will be valuable for educators to learn more about these issues and how to better support families.

The English and French panels will be live at the same time on Feb. 8, from 6-7 p.m. Participants are encouraged to for a session based on their language preference. Registration will close��an hour before the event.

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NNDSB has so much great information to share from the program team! Read on to learn about the launch of innovative science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and coding Initiatives.

Near North Codes: In February, NNDSB math facilitators introduced a new teaching and learning resource to support STEM, science, technology, engineering, the arts and math (STEAM) and coding in mathematics classrooms. Near North Codes is a monthly professional learning publication and instructional resource designed to support staff in developing familiarity with coding and confidence integrating coding into classroom learning experiences.

Each month, a new edition of Near North Codes will be released. Resources will be sequenced as a progression of coding tasks, designed to support educators with the implementation of the new math curriculum coding expectations for Grades 1-9.

Teachers will find helpful links to support their own understanding of the expectations, along with a series of highlighted tasks for each division. These tasks can be immediately implemented with students, using Scratch Jr (primary) or Scratch (junior & intermediate).

Live Coding Events: All NNDSB Grade 4 classrooms have been invited to embark on an exciting coding adventure with Real-Life Googlers in partnership with the Cobblestone Initiative.

This live coding event will take place from March 29-31. It will include a one-hour live, co-taught virtual lesson on March 29, followed by a 30-minute live lesson on March 31.

Participating educators will have access to a drop-in Q&A session on March 30. No prior coding experience or knowledge is required for staff or students to participate. This innovative model will allow teachers to access classroom-embedded STEM learning while students benefit from interactive coding experiences delivered by coding experts.

Tutoring: Tutoring services have been made available to students and families across the system. After school, small group, in-person tutoring is available in 12 elementary schools focusing on learning recovery for primary students in literacy and numeracy. Virtual, one-on-one after-school tutoring support has been available to secondary students. This support is available each Tuesday to Thursday. Starting January 2022 virtual, one-on-one after school tutoring support has been available to elementary students. Progress monitoring in the primary programs and number of tutoring sessions offered virtually demonstrate improved outcomes and high frequency use of supports.

Intermediate (Grades 7 – 10) Literacy Intervention: Grades K-12 program and special education staff continue to work in partnership to explore and identify resources that support intermediate literacy learning. In the coming weeks, additional reading resources and assessment tools will be shared with intermediate educators and students. New literacy tools will help teachers plan daily classroom instruction and assessment that are systematic, evidence-based and assess foundational reading skills, provide differentiated and personalized instruction, and set appropriate learning goals with their students. Upcoming professional development opportunities will ensure that intermediate educators understand how to access and apply tools and gather the information they need to address students’ reading learning needs.

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In addition to staying informed via the board’s website, families can find NNDSB on , and .

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NNDSB follows the direction of the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health and the public health unit when devising COVID-19 plans.

Thank you,

17�Թ���

Almaguin Highlands Secondary School students learn about being active citizens

Students across 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) are active citizens in their communities every day. As part of a civics and citizenship class at Almaguin Highlands Secondary School (AHSS), students helped sweeten the holidays for local seniors.

Teacher Laurel Gough’s civics and citizenship class ran a Christmas cookie collection for a local initiative, Adopt a Senior for Christmas. The project is run by Meranda Wood, an AHSS graduate who works for the North Bay Police Service.

Gough says this all came together during a discussion about active citizenship within our communities. Students were wondering what kind of difference they could make.

“This provided an opportunity to discuss the various ways we can have a significant impact within our area, including running a holiday charity drive. We discussed the significance of thinking beyond ourselves, developing empathy and understanding the needs of others,” said Gough. “The students created their own promotional material for the Christmas cookie collection, and even wrote and read their own morning announcements. They are a wonderful group of caring individuals who will surely go forward to become excellent active citizens within their communities,” she said.

Though the project was spearheaded and organized by Gough’s class, all AHSS students were invited to donate contributions.

Adopt a Senior for Christmas helps seniors in the community who are alone for Christmas by collecting their wish lists and creating stockings for them, as well as organizing someone in the community to buy them a gift. The gifts are then distributed to the seniors.

“The Grade 10 students in Mrs. Gough’s civics and citizenship class learned the importance of active citizenship. We learned that being an active citizen is the responsibility to help out in your community, in the world and to be a person who volunteers or donates to local organizations” says student Charlie Hall. “We applied this knowledge, spearheading a Christmas goodie collection at Almaguin Highland Secondary School for the Adopt a Senior for Christmas Charity.

“The local charity program’s goal is to ensure that no senior feels alone at Christmas. We hope that our contributions created a feeling of Christmas cheer for the seniors who received some of our special treats,” adds Charlie.

A staggering 81 boxes of goodies were collected at AHSS and distributed to local seniors in the community.

Gough says the treats were delivered by community paramedics who ensured recipients knew their goodies came from students at AHSS.

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Cutline information:

Almaguin Highlands Secondary School students in Laurel Gough’s civics and citizenship class spearheaded a school-wide Christmas cookie collection to brighten the holidays for seniors.

For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Community support helps fill tummies at Phelps Central

A group of contributors from the Redbridge area has pooled together financial resources to make a $2,500 donation to the breakfast program at Phelps Central Public School.

In addition to packing the pantry, the donors also bought staff and students pizza lunch before the start of the winter break.

Rhondi Synnott, a Grade 5/6 teacher at the school, says “Not only will students have full tummies to optimize learning, but they can also see first-hand how kindness has positive effects on each other and the community as a whole.”

The donors to the breakfast program include A&L Drywall, John’s Mobile Small Engine Repairs, Platinum Heating and Electrical, Kelly’s Auto Glass, Marc Girard of Century 21, Lafargeholcim and the Trendy Thrifter.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Dear Parents and Guardians of secondary school students,

17�Թ��� (NNDSB) had announced that it would move to a normal four-course semester system when approval was given by the Ministry of Education and the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit. As we��had not received such approval, we announced in our Letter to Families on Jan. 7 that we were moving forward with a quadmester model for the second half of this school year.

Since that communication, the Ministry of Education confirmed that all school boards in Ontario��can resume a four-course semester timetable with the approval of the local health unit and that the local health unit was in support of this model.

Plans are being made to transition secondary students from octomester to semester timetables effective��Jan. 31.��Families and students do not need to take action, and course selections will remain unchanged. Questions about the semester timetable should be directed to the school.

We will be maintaining our commitment to student and staff safety and well-being and will continue to follow the directions and advice of the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health, and the North Bay Parry Sound Health Unit.

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Further to our letter of Wednesday, Jan. 12, this letter to families provides more information about the return to in-person learning on Monday. 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) will continue to share details about the return to school as they become available.

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Many workplaces are expecting to be short-staffed due to the transmissibility of the Omicron variant of COVID-19, and the new requirements around self-isolating. NNDSB is anticipating staff shortages, too.

If schools are not able to safely operate with the number of available staff, NNDSB will close schools. The announcement may be made the night before, the morning of the closure, or possibly even during the day in certain circumstances.

We understand the lack of notice will be problematic for many families. Unfortunately, it is a reality we face, and we want to give families advance notice so they may make contingency plans if their child’s school is closed.

NNDSB will work within the parameters outlined by the Ministry of Education, and situations will vary from school to school. If a school is closed, it will be communicated to affected families by the school through SchoolMessenger. Information will also be shared on �����ٳ���’s and accounts as soon as possible.

While schools may be closed, learning will continue online. Teachers will reach out to families about remote learning opportunities in the event of a school closure.

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Effective Monday, Jan. 17, 2022, it will be mandatory that all JK/SK students wear masks.

High-quality, three-ply masks will be made available for all students at all schools. 17�Թ��� also stock medical-grade masks for all students if needed.

Non-fit-tested N95 masks will be available for all staff.

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The Ministry of Education announced it will be providing families with rapid antigen tests to assist in keeping schools safe for students and staff. The kits, like those sent home with students before the winter break, will be distributed next week.

NNDSB will be distributing all tests it has received. 17�Թ��� and board offices do not have a stock of tests. More tests will be distributed once NNDSB receives more. Next. week, students will be given two tests each.

Instructions will be included with the tests. If the instruction sheet is misplaced, you may find the instructions for the tests here. There is also an . Rapid antigen tests are only to be used if a student is exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19.

All staff and students will be required to confirm they have successfully every day before coming to school.

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If your family borrowed a device(s) from NNDSB for the return to online learning, please return all devices, charging blocks and cables to school next week.

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On the advice of Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health and the local health unit, indoor high contact and high-intensity activities (such as wrestling, basketball, multi-cohort choirs and wind instrument ensembles, for example) have been paused. For the week of Jan. 17, all extra-curricular activities and practices will be paused. All interschool sports will be paused until Jan. 31, pending review by the health unit and co-terminus school boards.

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As always, any important news will be shared with stakeholder groups, including families, by letter. The board’s website is also updated, with pandemic news located on the COVID-19 alerts page. News is also posted to the board’s and accounts.

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NNDSB follows the direction of the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health and the public health unit when devising COVID-19 plans. The health and safety of students and staff remains our top priority.

Thank you,

17�Թ���

Board Highlights for January meeting

The following are the highlights of the 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) meeting of Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2022.

Public Education Symposium moves online

The pandemic has led to (OPSBA) to move its annual online. The symposium is the association’s premier professional development for school boards.

This year’s event will be held Friday, Jan. 28.

Because boards will pay a flat fee based on student enrolment, all trustees plus five additional board staff will be able to participate in the symposium.

Anti-sex trafficking protocols introduced

A report was presented to the Board that outlined �����ٳ���’s administrative guideline for anti-sex trafficking protocols. The protocols are in response to a Ministry of Education requirement that all school boards in Ontario must have a protocol for the response to suspected sex trafficking occurrences.

The guideline creates community-centred anti-sex trafficking protocols, and outlines education for students, families and staff about sex trafficking, healthy relationships, safe and responsible use of technology, addressing high-risk behaviour and knowing when and how to seek help.

Accomplishments honoured in year-end review

The Board took time to honour the work achieved by staff last year. A year-end review was included in the agenda package, and Director of Education Craig Myles spoke to the work at the meeting.

In spite of being challenged by remote learning and continuing effects of COVID-19, NNDSB staff made strides in all areas of the organization. The Multi-Year Strategic Plan was approved and launched, the board was acknowledged by the Ombudsman of Ontario for implementing recommendations around transparency and governance, two new school builds are in the works in North Bay and Parry Sound, and relationships with stakeholders are being improved through communications and collaboration.

For more information, see this media release.

Indigenous Student Trustee sworn in

Allen Lewis Trodd was sworn in as �����ٳ���’s Indigenous Student Trustee at Tuesday night’s meeting.

Lewis Trodd is a Grade 11 student at Parry Sound High School who is from Magnetawan First Nation. He is a member of �����ٳ���’s Indigenous Youth Circle and Student Senate.

In his presentation to the Indigenous Youth Circle, Lewis Trodd said, “I’d love to be the student trustee to be able to talk about, explain, to show them the great ideas we make here…talk about our goals, what we plan to do, what we hope to do.”

For more information, see this media release.

Student Trustee highlights community engagement

In her presentation to the Board, Student Trustee Cecilia Darling spoke about the activities that secondary school students participated in prior to the winter break. Several of the schools participated in collecting items for charities and local food banks. Staff and students also participated in holiday-related events, like writing letters and donating small gifts to seniors in long-term care homes.

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Note: the full agenda package is posted on the website prior to meetings, and official minutes are posted after they are approved at the next board meeting.

For more information, please contact:
Deb Bartlett (she/her)
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170 ext. 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Board takes time to honour its accomplishments in 2021

Trustees of the 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) took a few moments at their Jan. 11 meeting to appreciate the achievements made throughout 2021.

In a year that saw even more challenges presented by the continuation of the COVID-19 pandemic, staff of NNDSB forged ahead with plans to achieve the Board’s goals.

Director of Education Craig Myles spoke to the work accomplished in 2021 at the Board meeting. The presentation was accompanied by a document in the agenda package called 2021 A Year in Review. Highlights included the launch of the Multi-Year Strategic Plan (MYSP), acknowledgement by the Ombudsman of Ontario for implementing recommendations around transparency and governance, recognition for successfully implementing a vaccination policy procedure and being asked to support the Government of the Northwest Territories in doing the same, submission of successful grant proposals to enhance services, commencement of the process of building new schools in North Bay and Parry Sound, increased stakeholder communication, formation of the Equity Advisory Circle and Indigenous Youth Circle, launch of a Personal Support Worker program throughout the district and begun a reorganization to better align resources.

“These results are very pleasing,” said Board Chair Jay Aspin. “As Trustees, in 2018 we were given a public mandate to reform and rejuvenate the Near North board. With the strong support of the Board of Trustees and the solid leadership of Director Craig Myles and his senior leadership team,��we are accomplishing our goals despite the harsh,��disruptive pandemic conditions we’ve faced.��Our heartiest congratulations to everyone for working so hard toward the achievement of these goals.”

In the area of human resources (HR), the board has begun recruitment and selection processes to build talent pools of future leaders. Leadership development and succession planning are a focus, with learning modules that staff are able to work on independently.

�����ٳ���’s finance committee has developed a budget procedures manual that aligned the budget development process with the MYSP goals of student achievement and well-being. A monitoring process ensures trustees are apprised quarterly of financial operating results, accumulated reserves and the trustee development reserve fund.

Staff maximized provincial and federal offers of funding for COVID-19-related support. NNDSB secured funds to purchase laptops, iPads and internet connectivity devices for use by students. Staff aggressively pursued federal government funding that supports energy efficiency and air quality improvement at NNDSB schools.

On the capital planning front, NNDSB is working on two new schools. The JK-12 Parry Sound School will be a space in which students will seamlessly transition from daycare through secondary school in a modern building. In North Bay, the new Fricker build will accommodate students in JK-6 from Carmichael and Norman, as well as extended French students from Fricker.

Several modifications were made to Board governance, all of which were initiated to improve efficiency. In September, a proposal was accepted that gave expressed consent from the Board to the senior administration team to proceed to public consultation on the development, creation or update of administrative guidelines, eliminating the delay in requesting consent to seek consultation. Another change was the development of the Extraordinary Circumstances by-law, which allows for the Chair to act on behalf of the Board to temporarily invoke the by-law to deal with an emergency or extraordinary circumstance.

NNDSB began the process of streamlining processes and better aligning role responsibilities. The board is creating role descriptions for all departments and is merging operational roles in finance and human resources. A flow chart is being created that will graphically and clearly illustrate organizational structure. The board is working to fill gaps in areas determined as understaffed, beginning with the hiring of an HR manager in August 2021. A plan for cross-training will ensure smooth business operations in and between departments, and the process of recruiting vice-principals, principals and supervisory officers is being strategically designed.

The board also continues to work to maintain the confidence of its various stakeholder groups. The board has formed an equity advisory circle, an Indigenous education advisory circle and an Indigenous youth circle, all of which increase communication and collaboration in the provision of education to a wide range of students. The board remains focused on reconciliation and building stronger relationships with Indigenous staff, students and communities. A new communications team has improved the quantity and quality of communications with stakeholder groups and strives to keep all groups apprised of news in the board.

A major achievement in 2021 was the creation of a PSW program that will train and certify workers in all areas of NNDSB. Partnerships were formed with healthcare organizations who will provide space in living classrooms, allowing students to learn on-site and use their knowledge immediately in practical application of the skills.

Director Myles said he was inspired by the volume and quality of work that was accomplished last year as staff faced challenges caused by COVID-19. “I know staff are under tremendous pressure during this pandemic, yet time and again, this team is able to deliver. The MYSP has charted the course for this board, and I’m proud to see staff forge ahead in the service of student achievement and well-being.”

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Allen Lewis Trodd sworn in as Indigenous Student Trustee

17�Թ��� (NNDSB) unanimously accepted the recommendation from the Indigenous Youth Circle to appoint Allen Lewis Trodd as the Indigenous Student Trustee. In a first for the board, Lewis Trodd, a Grade 11 student at Parry Sound High School, was sworn in as the Indigenous Student Trustee at tonight’s Board meeting with an honour song by Rodney Stanger.

Lewis Trodd is Anishinaabe and Coast Salish from Magnetawan First Nation, and is a member of �����ٳ���’s Indigenous Youth Circle and Student Senate.

In his presentation to the Indigenous Youth Circle about his desire to be the Indigenous Student Trustee, Lewis Trodd said speaking to the Board (he addressed the Board at its November meeting) was “cool, but I’d love to be the student trustee to be able to talk about, explain, to show them the great ideas we make here…talk about our goals, what we plan to do, what we hope to do.”

In his Indigenous Youth Circle presentation, he said, “I like to think of myself as a nice, charismatic guy” who welcomes the opportunity to show the Board what matters to Indigenous students. “It means a lot to me…this is important to me,” he said. “If I’m able to become (Indigenous) Student Trustee it will allow me to make something happen or change that I’ll be able to help Indigenous students out.”

NNDSB Board Chair Jay Aspin indicated, “Our board was pleased to have added an Indigenous Student Trustee position to enable Indigenous youth to have a say with regard to their education, so we are delighted with their selection��of Allen Lewis Trodd. In today’s world,��there is nothing like the power of education to assist in advancing reconciliation.”

Tracy Hendrick, �����ٳ���’s Indigenous Education Lead, says this year, 11 per cent of NNDSB students self-identified as First Nation, Métis or Inuit. Having an Indigenous Student Trustee is important, she says, because “we need to be centering Indigenous student voice. Indigenous youth programming and resources should not be solely planned by non-Indigenous adults. Indigenous youth bring a unique perspective to the table.”

Director of Education Craig Myles said the Indigenous Student Trustee will be in a position to bring the ideas and desires of �����ٳ���’s Indigenous students to the Board table. “Allen has assumed an important responsibility to his Indigenous and non-Indigenous peers, to trustees, and to staff. The board looks forward to working with Student Trustee Lewis Trodd and hearing what Indigenous students believe is important in their school experience.”

Hendrick says Lewis Trodd will be working with Student Trustee Cecilia Darling. “They will be working together; they are not on two separate paths. This sends an important message to all students and the public about what reconciliation actually looks like.”

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Dear Parents and Guardians,

This monthly Letter to Families is intended to keep you apprised of news that affects all students and families of 17�Թ��� (NNDSB). The Letter to Families is distributed on the first Friday of the month.

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In May 2021, we shared the decision that NNDSB was continuing with the octomester model for the 2021-2022 school year based on direction from the Ministry of Education and local public health units. After consultation with students, families and staff, we are pleased to share with you that NNDSB is planning for a transition to the quadmester model on Jan. 31, 2022.

Recently the board retained Nanos Research to conduct a survey and gather feedback from stakeholders in NNDSB on their experiences with the secondary octomester timetabling format should NNDSB not be able to return to a traditional semester timetable. The results of the surveys are available for viewing here: parent and student. According to feedback from students and families, most would prefer a quadmester model for the second half of the school year.

Since we are unable to return to the semester model due to the current instability of COVID-19, we will move to quadmesters. The quadmester model will see students take two courses a day – one in the morning and the other in the afternoon. This decision was made in consultation with public health and our own research.

NNDSB appreciates the time that students and families gave to respond to the survey. The feedback is important to the board’s Multi-Year Strategic Plan pillars of excellence in communication and excellence in relationships.

Students and families can expect further communication from their school on timetables and school-specific details.

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NNDSB continues to place a high priority on supporting our students’ mental health during this latest period of remote learning.��The board’s mental health team is reaching out to the students/parents that they are currently supporting to provide check-ins and make arrangements for continuity of services.

Our educators also have several mental health resources at their disposal and will be sensitive to the mental health needs of their students during on-line learning.��The mental health team continues to accept new referrals for students who are seeking support during remote learning.��Please do not hesitate to reach out to your child’s teacher or principal/vice-principal if you have any questions or concerns about your child’s mental health.

There are many other resources and tools for parents and caregivers which can be accessed on the SMHO website��.

Kids Help Phone offers 24/7 counselling and referral services across the province. Students can call 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868.

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Secondary schools are holding their information nights virtually, and families are invited to attend to learn more about NNDSB schools and their programs.

More information about the six secondary schools, with links to their open house meetings, can be found here.

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Every year, the four local school boards collaborate to establish a school-year calendar which aims to promote student learning, success and well-being, and to minimize the impact on the schedule of their families, staff and members of the school community, all while respecting Ministry of Education standards.

The school-year calendar must consist of 194 compulsory teaching days, a maximum of seven (7) professional development days (pedagogical days) and a maximum of ten (10) exam days for secondary schools.

The coterminous board teams have carefully selected professional development opportunities for staff which align with Ministry of Education priorities, the proposed 2022-2023 school year calendar will include seven (7) professional activity days.

Although the number of school days available between Sept. 1, 2022 and June 30, 2023 are limited, we can offer our school communities a few options. We will invite you to indicate your preferences in the school-year calendar survey that will be open from the middle of January for 10 days. You will be sent the link via school messenger, and it will also be available on the board website.

Preferences and comments received will be taken into consideration in developing the final version of the 2022-2023 school-year calendar.��Trustees from every school board will adopt the recommended 2022-2023 school year calendar prior to submitting it to the Ministry of Education for approval by March 1, 2022.

We look forward to your participation and collaboration in the upcoming school-year calendar survey.

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NNDSB follows the direction of the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health and the public health unit when devising COVID-19 plans.

Thank you,

17�Թ���

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Monday’s letter advised families of the move to online learning, effective tomorrow, Thursday, Jan. 6. This letter is to keep you up-to-date about 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) plans and procedures as we ready staff and students for the move to virtual learning.

In addition to the monthly Letter to Families that will be sent out Friday, Jan. 7, NNDSB will continue to send COVID-19- and remote learning-related update letters to families as new information arrives.

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Students in special education classrooms as identified through the Identification, Placement and Review Committee (IPRC) process will be able to resume in-person programming in their schools on Monday, Jan. 10. Staff will be contacting families whose students will be able to attend in-person. Transportation will be arranged. If your child qualifies for in-person programming and you have questions, contact your child’s school.

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Childcare and school-aged Early Years programs are permitted to provide emergency childcare for children of healthcare and other eligible front-line workers during the period of virtual learning. Early ON Child and Family Centre programs will not be operating in schools during this time.

The following is a list of school sites where programs will be operating:

North Bay and area: YMCA of Northeastern Ontario is operating childcare at Woodland and will begin their school-aged program (in the school) on Monday, Jan. 10. Hours will be 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.; West Ferris Day Nursery will operate their childcares (they are currently not operating any of their school aged programs) from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at West Ferris, Silver Birches and Ferris Glen; West Nipissing Childcare will operate a school-aged program at 131 Michaud St. in Sturgeon Falls, serving students from White Woods; St. Theresa’s in Callander will open, with a program operated by the North Bay YMCA.

Almaguin area: Mapleridge and Sundridge Centennial, operated by the District of Parry Sound Social Services Administration Board, will open sites to accommodate 15 students per location from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Parry Sound area: YMCA of Simcoe Muskoka will operate a school-aged program at Parry Sound Public School from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Parry Sound YMCA will run a school-aged program as well.

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Supporting a smooth transition to remote learning:

To ensure a smooth transition to remote learning, we ask Near North families to review and consider��the following��information:

• Families that need the use of board-provided technology to access remote learning are asked to complete the����to communicate technology needs. Families that have devices for their students are not required to complete the survey.
• Inform the school if there have been changes to your email, phone number or other contact information. This information is critical to support ongoing school/family communication during times of remote learning.��Reach out to your child’s school if communication is not being received.
• Visit the��Near North Passport to Learning webpage��to access a variety of resources and helpful links to support remote learning including technical support, information about virtual learning platforms, and instructional resources.
• Review the��Tips for Remote Learning��document to learn about best practices for remote learning.
• Contact the family help desk number if you are unable to login to your NNDSB parent or student account: 705-472-5169 (North Bay), 705-773-7975 (Parry Sound).
• In addition to using the online��Microsoft��Office products available to students through Office 365, all NNDSB students are provided with five licenses to download the most recent Microsoft Office applications (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, OneNote).��Click here��to learn how to install these applications.
• ��and����are ministry-partnered sites that��provide supports for students learning remotely by accessing additional educational resources developed by Ontario-certified teachers.

Minimum requirements for engaging students during remote learning:

During remote learning periods, students and parents will be provided with a daily schedule or timetable that includes 300 minutes of learning opportunities, with a combination of synchronous (all students and teacher learning remotely but together in real time) and asynchronous (learning on one’s own schedule) learning activities. Programming will be based on the full Ontario curriculum and include opportunities for guided instruction, large and small-group learning, synchronous check-ins, and asynchronous independent work.

Teachers will��be available to students at all times��during the teachers’ assigned teaching timetables, as they would be if they were face-to-face in a classroom setting.��Educators will continue to use their professional judgement to provide flexibility to students on an individual basis��when students are unable to participate in synchronous learning.

Process for Exemption from “Synchronous” Learning:

To ensure equitable access to learning,��, requires school boards to allow students to be exempted from the minimum requirements for��synchronous learning��–��for example, this may be because of poor internet connectivity or family scheduling, etc.��In accordance with PPM 164, 17�Թ��� has created an online����to facilitate synchronous learning exemption requests.

Please note, students who have completed a synchronous learning exemption form will be provided with ‘asynchronous’ learning opportunities in accordance with the 300-minute instructional day.��Furthermore, daily attendance is still required��(daily contact with their educator).��Assessment, evaluation and reporting continues to apply to all students who have been exempted��from the minimum requirements of synchronous (live, interactive) learning. Students will be expected to complete and submit assignments and will receive feedback from educators.

Please continue to visit the��17�Թ��� website��to access��the��most up-to-date��information.��Additional remote learning links and information can also��be found��here.

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The board’s website has a COVID-19 alerts page where families will find �����ٳ���’s operational guidelines, the updated and links to Ministry of Health and the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit information.

NNDSB follows the direction of the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health and the public health unit when devising COVID-19 plans.

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The team at 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) hopes you and your families had an enjoyable, and restful winter break. It is vital that we all take the time to rest and recharge.

This morning, Premier Doug Ford announced that students in Ontario will return from the winter break virtually, rather than in-person for at least two weeks. In order to accommodate this, NNDSB staff will be working Wednesday, Jan. 5 as a turnaround day to prepare students and families for a remote return to class on Thursday, Jan. 6. Students will not have class or assignments to do on Wednesday.

Students in special education classrooms as identified through the IPRC process and who are currently placed in alternative programs in system classrooms will be able to resume to access face-to-face programming in their schools next week. Educators will reach out to the families of these students on Wednesday to discuss the next steps for learning and to make the necessary arrangements.

Families that need the use of board-provided technology to access remote learning are asked to complete the����to communicate technology needs. Families that have devices for their students are not required to complete the survey.

In preparation for at-home learning, additional resources can be found via this link.

As always, any important news will be shared with stakeholder groups, including families, by letter. The board’s website is also updated, with pandemic news located on the COVID-19 alerts page. News is also posted to the board’s and accounts.

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Yesterday, the province made several COVID-19-related announcements.

NNDSB staff are looking into the announcements and making plans for a safe return to school. As always, the board will send out relevant information as it becomes available.

The province’s has been updated; please make sure you are using the most recent version. The tool, and other COVID-19 information is curated on the COVID-19 page of the board’s website.

All are reminded that when returning to school all safety protocols – masking, hand washing, social distancing, etc. – remain in effect.

We hope that you have an enjoyable weekend.

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As we get nearer to the start of the winter break, 17�Թ��� will be sharing information as it relates to a safe return to school on Jan. 5, 2022.

Please click this link to find a letter to families from Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education, regarding the rapid antigen tests that students will be bringing home next week.

This letter, and any other COVID-19 related information, can be found on the COVID-19 Alerts and Resources page of the board’s website.

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

17�Թ���’s (NNDSB) K-12 program team has been busy brainstorming, developing, and implementing new and engaging ways for students to learn math from JK-12. The team is also working towards de-streaming the Grade 9 math curriculum.

“Math should not be seen as an abstract subject that doesn’t have any daily use,” says Math Facilitator Melissa Peddie. “Once you start seeing mathematics as a way we can interpret the world around us, you realize that it is absolutely everywhere. It’s an ultimate goal of educators to help students mathematize their environment so that they can use those math skills to move them forward in every aspect of their life.”

There are two board-based math facilitators, and nine school-based math facilitators within the board’s target schools, all of whom work alongside Peddie to support the implementation of the provincial math strategy.

What does a math facilitator do?

“My title is JK to 12 math facilitator. I work with teachers in a classroom-embedded, co-planning, co-teaching professional learning model,” says Peddie. “I support principals as they’re making school improvement plans particularly as they relate to mathematics. I am also responsible for providing central professional development to teachers across the board.”

Chris Walkling is a regional K-12 Student Achievement and Well-Being Principal who works alongside the various teams.

“Working as a student achievement and well-being principal, Laurie Forth, Steve Krause and I work as a team in a JK-12 capacity,” he explains. “With our focus on mathematics, we work closely with Melissa and Superintendent of Teaching and Learning Melanie Gray, in schools as well as at the system-level to support the implementation of curriculum and ultimately, to improve outcomes for students. Our team designs and implements professional learning that enables staff to respond to evolving student needs. “

While mathematics stays the same, the ways students learn and remain engaged, along with how educators teach the material, continues to develop.

“I also am designing and developing different resources to support the work that we’re doing for student success. There’s a lot of collaboration, bringing in teachers with different perspectives to develop math assessment and teaching resources. We’ve had a major focus on developing number sense and supporting teacher understanding of what that means,” notes Peddie. “I’ve developed resources for the Classroom Support Centre to be signed out by educators, to support student learning and provide background information for teachers to develop their own understanding around number sense development.”

The Classroom Support Centre is a specialized NNDSB department that provides services and catalogued resources for educators to support their instructional practices. These include learning resources and kits for students to use in the classroom, educator resources, access to virtual resources such as videos and support with producing materials for classroom use.

Peddie adds that teachers have really embraced the evolution of learning, which includes their own learning.

“In talking with teachers, a lot have said they’ve had some great learning for themselves, to support them in being prepared to meet a variety of learners’ needs in their classrooms. Reflecting on the last couple of years, taking this understanding of what really good pedagogy looks like in math, and then considering the shift to online learning due to COVID-19 protocols, we’ve worked to bring a focus on the important pieces of this good pedagogy that we can still hold on to and leverage with these new constraints,” she says.

The math curriculum has really evolved over the last five years.

“One of the big changes would be teachers understanding how children learn math, and we’ve done a lot of work with learning trajectories. If you could think about a series of skills mapped out over time as being “stepping stones”, generally speaking, there’s an order to how children develop those skills and they get increasingly complex,” explains Walkling. “I think using learning trajectories and developing staff understanding of how those skills build over time, staff have become much more intentional. So, they can name with precision, where students are on that path, and meet them where they are at and support developmentally appropriate next steps, incremental nudges or steps towards success.”

There’s a strong consensus on how mathematics has evolved over a short period of time.

Mathematics hasn’t changed, but how it’s taught has adapted into a more compressive approach, thanks to research and a better understanding of how students learn.

“If you had just said five years, I would have definitely talked about a huge shift in learning for educators in terms of understanding how students develop number sense in particular, and how number sense impacts other areas of learning,” notes Peddie. “It’s the foundation that connects almost every area of mathematics. Once we have a handle on how students develop number sense right from Kindergarten all the way through into secondary school, then we become better math educators.”

One of the crucial changes is de-streaming the Grade 9 math curriculum. Streamed math refers to when students enter Grade 9, they are channelled through either the applied stream or an academic stream that sets them on the path for post-secondary studies. The streamed model has proven to not be as effective as once thought, thus the shift towards de-streaming all secondary school subjects.

“Right now, we’re working with the de-streamed Grade 9 mathematics teachers to support them in navigating the de-streamed programming,” says Peddie. “We’re exploring student learning profiles, new math curriculum expectations, along with resources and pedagogies to support de-streamed math learning environments.”

Gray notes how the hard work that Peddie and the team have put into developing and re-defining the way math is administered has put NNDSB in an excellent position for learning.

“A lot of the work that Melissa, supported by Chris, had done over the years, really put us in a good place to move forward with being able to be creative. A specific example is Melissa worked with so many educators across our system to help them develop an understanding of a pedagogical move called Number Talks and I can’t tell you how many classes I was able to jump into, in terms of their online learning to see those educators doing a version of number talks.”

Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is another important recent development to the math curriculum, but as Peddie states, NNDSB was already brainstorming these aspects, which includes maintaining positive motivation and perseverance, thinking creatively, and developing self-awareness skills.

“We were already having these conversations in terms of mathematics. We have a resource developed by Jane Rutledge and me called the First X Days of Mathematics and it’s for classrooms, primary all the way up to intermediate. It sets a foundation for developing positive mindsets about students seeing themselves as mathematicians,” exclaims Peddie. “In the classroom, students are engaged in interesting challenging mathematic tasks that allow them to think creatively reflecting on themselves as mathematicians, and really broadening that idea of what is it to be a mathematician, and we’re all mathematicians.”

Peddie notes helping students develop an understanding of perseverance in mathematics is a big part of social-emotional learning.

Building off social-emotional learning, there are numerous learning platforms that Peddie and the math team have implemented for students to build upon their math skills. One of the platforms is DreamBox Learning.

“DreamBox is specifically for Grades 1-3 students this year and it’s an online resource that’s adaptive to student needs,” says Peddie. “It differentiates what lessons and what games students play to build their math understanding based on individual student starting points. Through these tasks in DreamBox Learning, students engage in productive struggle.”

Once students work their way through the lessons, teachers are able to provide feedback for the learners. Though not new to NNDSB, DreamBox Learning has found its way to becoming a valuable resource for students.

“We ultimately determined that there was a significant value in placing that resource in the primary level, gamified learning beyond school, and a general level of engagement that was very well received and beneficial for students in primary,” notes Walkling. “When we think how that’s different than maybe some other tools that are out there is that the representations of math in DreamBox, are similar and consistent with the tools that kids use in the classroom. If you think about the “rekenrek” or about “number lines”, all of those representations are familiar to students and they’re also present in the game. So, there’s a nice relationship there. But beyond that, the program documents all of the interactions that students have in the online environment and maps those experiences to the Ontario curriculum, allowing staff to monitor and respond to evolving student needs.”

Rekenrek is a tool that translates to an arithmetic rack or calculating frame. The rekenrek is a unique tool that allows children to develop number sense at their own pace.

“This is a really exciting time for us as a school board. With a fresh take on a multi-year strategic plan, new board improvement plans, more cohesiveness across all our departments, we are going to be able to plan as specifically as possible and set those goals,” says Gray. “I love listening to Melissa and Chris talk about math. From the system level, I do believe that we are a strong team and we’re well-positioned with the aforementioned plans.”

The board receives funding from the Ministry of Education to purchase resources that align with the new math curricula, support professional learning opportunities for staff, and hire school and board-based math leads. All of these investments contribute to �����ٳ���’s efforts to improve student outcomes in mathematics and ensure their success after secondary school.

What are Peddie and Walkling’s favourite parts of the job?

“For me, being in the classrooms with teachers and students, co-teaching, co-planning, listening to student thinking, talking with teachers about what they’re noticing, collaborating at all those components,” says Peddie.

“I would say the moment that students have an ‘aha’, and all of a sudden it clicks! And in that same moment, the educators have the means to see the impact of their actions. To see that their efforts have improved outcomes or enabled understandings for students. These little ‘mastery moments’ allow staff to see that their actions have impact, and they’re making a difference for students,” says Walkling.

With the chances of probability and other math lessons, the learning opportunities and platforms are not a random addition for NNDSB.

“It’s not just happenstance, we spend a long time looking at the quality of the resource and how it connects to what we know already works, the pedagogy that’s in place or pedagogy we want to further develop and how does this resource support educators in making those connections,” says Peddie.

Board Highlights for December meeting

The following are the highlights of the 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) meeting of Tuesday, Dec. 7, 2021.

Chair, Vice-Chair acclaimed at organizational meeting

At the annual organizational meeting of NNDSB, Trustees Jay Aspin and John Cochrane were acclaimed as the Chair and Vice-Chair of the Board.

The pair has been at the helm of this Board since its inaugural meeting in 2018, and their experience has helped the board navigate some difficult terrain. With their leadership, the Board has appointed Craig Myles as Director of Education in 2020, guided the Multi-Year Strategic Plan (MYSP) process and helped improve transparency through governance and reporting processes.

This is the final year of this Board’s mandate; the municipal election will be held Oct. 24, 2022.

Director recognizes staff

As part of his update to the Board, Myles acknowledged staff for the contribution to NNDSB in seeking excellence in innovation in the areas of student programming and leadership.

Under the leadership of Officer of Corporate Affairs Liana Blaskievich and Acting Principal of Student Success and Specialized Programs Lucio Pavone, the team of Sarah Spence, Alysha Young, Lisa Spencer, Stacie Burnie, Josh Casey, Roy Desjardins and Deb Bartlett have been instrumental in bringing the Personal Support Worker (PSW) program together. It is the intention of NNDSB to train PSWs in living classrooms in Parry Sound, Sturgeon Falls, North Bay and Mattawa.

Chippewa Secondary School teacher Greg Richardson has been chosen as the recipient of the 2021 Ontario Federation of School Athletic Associations’ (OFSAA) Leadership Award. He was acknowledged during the OFSAA AA Boys’ Volleyball tournament for his achievements over a 27-year-career.

Director presents annual report

Myles presented the Director’s Annual Report at the Board meeting, highlighting the work done by staff and the Board.

Myles said he was “happy and proud” to release the report, in which was woven references to the board’s MYSP and its four pillars: Excellence in Teaching and Learning; Excellence in Innovation; Excellence in Relationships; and Excellence in Communications.

The report also highlighted the governance improvements made by the Board, including the new governance manual, a new finance manual and the streamlined budget reporting process.

Board Chair Jay Aspin complimented Myles, noting that the document was “a top-notch report” in a difficult year.

The Director’s Annual Report can be found .

Online meetings reduce Trustee expenditures

Trustee expenditures for the year ending Aug. 31, 2021 were shared in the agenda package.

Because COVID-19 measures caused the cancellation of in-person meetings, travel-related expenses reduced trustees’ annual expenditures. The total for the Board (including honoraria, benefits, professional development, auto reimbursement, cell phone, office and professional fees) was $84,956.41.

Chair Aspin noted that “as a group, we have really saved a lot of money.” He said pre-COVID the total was usually $120,000 or $125,000, referring to the savings as “a silver lining” of the pandemic.

Trustee Louise Sargent added that online meetings also meant that trustees “didn’t have to pick and choose” and had more opportunities to attend more professional development and learning sessions.

Chair outlines six key Board priorities

In his address to the Board, Chair Aspin outlined six challenges for the Board to tackle in this last year of its mandate.

Calling them “broad brush priorities,” Chair Aspin said providing quality education and keeping staff and students safe and healthy in the face of COVID-19 was a focus, as are overseeing the implementation of the MYSP, completing new school builds in North Bay (Fricker) and Parry Sound (JK-12), supporting improvement in human resource allocation, continued expansion of community partnerships and communications and to advance the North Bay facilities study.

Board approves draft audited statements

Trustees approved the draft audited consolidated statements for the year ending Aug. 31, 2021.

Vice-Chair Cochrane, who chairs the audit committee, said the committee had “a nice, clean report” from auditors KPMG and praised the work of Superintendent of Business Seija Van Haesendonck and Manager of Finance Wende Proulx.

Student Trustee reports on school activities

Student Trustee Cecilia Darling’s report covered work taking place through the Ontario Student Trustee Association (OSTA), as well as activities in local schools.

Of note in her report, OSTA’s Environmental Sustainability Working group is working towards developing an environmental sustainability handbook to act as a guide for students and schools across the province. The guide will outline how communities can work towards developing more environmental consciousness. She added that �����ٳ���’s Senate team is looking at environmental sustainability to ensuring recycling is done safely and efficiently.

Student Trustee Darling noted two NNDSB schools participated in Ontario Federation of Secondary Athletics Association (OFSAA) championships, including Chippewa’s Boys AA Volleyball team (which hosted and won the championship) and Almaguin Highlands’ Girls A Basketball team attended OFSAA in Smithville.

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Note: the full agenda package is posted on the website prior to meetings, and official minutes are posted after they are approved at the next board meeting.

For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett (she/her)
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170 ext. 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Positive momentum continues, as shown in annual report

In a year in which people continued to struggle through the second year of a global pandemic, 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) staff shone. Director of Education Craig Myles proudly presented the 2020-2021 Director’s Annual Report to trustees at Tuesday night’s Board meeting.

Woven through the report were references to the board’s Multi-Year Strategic Plan (MYSP) and its four pillars: Excellence in Teaching and Learning; Excellence in Innovation; Excellence in Relationships; and Excellence in Communications. Although the MYSP wasn’t official until the June 2021 Board meeting, all stakeholders were kept apprised of the progress and the work taking place during the plan’s development. With input from a variety of sources, �����ٳ���’s MYSP prepares every stakeholder group to focus on the goal of student achievement and well-being.

The Director’s Annual Report also shared highlights of the Board, such as the creation of a new governance manual, a finance manual and streamlined budget reporting process.

“I am happy, and proud,” said Myles during his presentation to the Board on Tuesday. He said the annual report is “one of accomplishment and success of staff and students…in the face of (COVID-19) pandemic.”

Myles said credit for the work must be given the “strong team” that comprise the board. “Without these groups, this report would not be possible,” he said.

Board Chair Jay Aspin complimented Myles, noting that the document was “a top-notch report” in a difficult year. “We continue to strongly support our Director’s efforts to reform and rejuvenate this board and the results are apparent.”

The Director’s Annual Report can be found .

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Board approves audited 2020-2021 financial statements

As recommended by the Audit Committee, 17�Թ��� last night approved the draft audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended Aug. 31, 2021. The audit was conducted by KPMG and resulted in a clean audit opinion. No significant control deficiencies were noted, indicating that the finance department continued to work effectively during the disruptions presented by the pandemic.

Highlights of this year’s statements include an increase to operating accumulated surplus of $3.1 million, and additions to capital assets of $8.9 million.

Chair of the Audit Committee, John Cochrane said, “Once again, thanks to a totally impressive��team effort led by our Superintendent of Business Seija Van Haesendonck, and��Manager of Finance Wende Proulx, our audited financial statements are a shining example of the way your Board wisely spends our taxpayer funds. Congratulations to all involved!”

The Audit Committee also presented a year-end report, which Trustees approved, and will forward to the Ministry of Education for the year ended Aug. 31, 2021.

The statements may be found in the agenda package from last night’s meeting.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Chair, Vice-Chair acclaimed at organizational meeting

Chair Jay Aspin and Vice-Chair John Cochrane were acclaimed at tonight’s organizational meeting of 17�Թ��� (NNDSB), signalling trustees’ continued support of Board leadership.

Director of Education Craig Myles, as secretary of the Board, presided over tonight’s meeting until the Chair was elected.

The two have held these positions with this Board since it was elected in the fall of 2018, through elections and acclamations.

Much has been accomplished under the leadership of Chair Aspin and Vice-Chair Cochrane. Among the highlights are the appointment of a new Director of Education, ��consistent efforts to improve transparency and processes, the creation and implementation of a governance manual and the development of a Multi-Year Strategic Plan (MYSP) that sets the course for the board through 2026.

After his acclamation, Chair Aspin addressed the Board, thanking trustees for their continued confidence.

Chair Aspin is entering his 21^st year as a school board trustee, and has held elected public office for 43 years, including six terms as a North Bay councillor and a Member of the 41^st Canadian Parliament.

“It is both an honour and a privilege to continue to serve as your Chair. I look forward to continuing to work with Board members, Director Myles and his senior leadership team to support the achievement and well-being of our students and staff,” said Chair Aspin.

After his acclamation, Vice-Chair Cochrane said, “I would like to thank my fellow board members for their on-going support of my work as Vice-Chair, and Chair of the Audit and Finance Committees,”. “My thoughts are focused, of course, on completing our much-needed school in Parry Sound. Our Board remains intent on pupil and staff safety throughout this coming year.”

Director Myles is grateful that Chair Aspin and Vice-Chair Cochrane were willing to let their names stand for another term. “This board has made remarkable progress in so many areas under the leadership of Chair Aspin and Vice-Chair Cochrane. NNDSB is fortunate to have a stellar group of trustees who are passionate about the work they do on behalf of students. I believe that more good things are to come with them guiding the Board for another year.”

This will be the final year of this Board’s mandate; the next municipal election will be held Monday, Oct. 24, 2022.

Chair Aspin said, “As this is our last year of this term as the Board of Trustees, let’s continue to reform and rejuvenate the board with the good work we have achieved together since 2018.”

The Chair said the key challenges the Board will focus on this year include providing quality education while keeping staff and students safe and healthy in the face of COVID-19, full implementation of the MYSP, completion of new school builds at Fricker and the Parry Sound JK-12 build, support improvements in human resource allocation, effective continued expansion of community partnerships and communications and to advance the North Bay facilities study.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Dear Parents and Guardians,

This monthly Letter to Families is intended to keep you apprised of news that affects all students and families of 17�Թ��� (NNDSB). The Letter to Families is distributed on the first Friday of the month.

*

Child vaccine clinics: The North Bay Parry Sound Health Unit is hosting COVID-19 vaccination clinics for 5- to 11-year-old children in the coming weeks. You can find out more information about clinic dates and times here.

Some of these clinics are being held at area schools. The school clinics are not during school hours and the expectation is that children will attend with an adult who will consent on their behalf. According to our local health unit, there is no age of consent for vaccinations, but nurses determine if a child can make that decision and understand the consequences prior to vaccination. For more information about Child Vaccination Clinics please call the health unit at 1-844-478-1400.

Travel at December Break: With the holiday season approaching, it is anticipated that many staff, students and families will choose to make travel plans for the December break. Ahead of the break, we would like to share some information about directives related to international travel and quarantine requirements.

Individuals must follow federal testing and quarantine requirements upon return from any international travel. This includes not attending school or childcare for the 14 days following a return from international travel for individuals advised to quarantine or not attend school/childcare upon their return.

While unvaccinated children under the age of 12 who travelled internationally with a fully vaccinated companion are exempt from federal quarantine, they are not permitted to attend school or childcare for 14 days following their return. Generally, individuals who are fully vaccinated are exempt from federal quarantine and may continue to attend school or childcare. Individuals with all other federal quarantine exemptions (e.g., travelling for cross-border custody arrangements; travelling for medical treatment) may also continue to attend school or childcare. For more detailed information, please contact our local health unit.

Rapid Antigen Testing during December Break: On Nov. 18, 2021, the Minister of Education announced a program for rapid antigen testing for all Ontario students during the December break. Before the break, every student in Ontario will be sent home with a rapid antigen screening kit that contains five tests. These kits will support all students to complete voluntary screening at home prior to their return to the classroom in January.

If a student tests positive using the rapid antigen screening, they must follow local health unit guidance which includes isolating and getting a confirmatory test at a local testing site. More information about this program will be shared once it is received from the Ministry of Education.

Winter Timetabling for Secondary 17�Թ���: For the winter semester starting in February 2022, the Ministry of Education has announced that all secondary schools may resume a regular timetabling model of four courses per day, unless not supported by the local Medical Officer of Health.

We are currently working with our local health unit to finalize how timetabling will look in our NNDSB secondary schools and will share further information once it is available to us.

Time-limited Health and Safety Measures in 17�Թ���: To mitigate risks associated with the colder weather and gatherings/travel over the winter holidays and to limit the number of contacts for unvaccinated populations especially in elementary schools, the Ministry of Education is implementing enhanced health and safety measures for schools. These measures will remain in place until the Ontario Chief Medical Officer of Health recommends they be lifted, and include:

• virtual-only parent teacher conferences/interviews in elementary and secondary schools;
• starting in January, virtual-only assemblies in elementary schools.
• restricting lunches/breaks to classroom cohort when indoors, where distancing between cohorts cannot be maintained in elementary schools.

In addition, all elementary and secondary schools will be required to implement daily onsite confirmation of screening prior to/upon arrival at school for at least two weeks following winter break. Please ensure your child completes their COVID-19 school screening before attending school each day. Starting on Jan. 5, teachers will confirm completion of this screening each morning during daily attendance. The screening tool can be found .

More COVID-19 information may be found in this memo from Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health.

*

Thank you to all parents, guardians, community members, staff and students who took the time between Nov. 15 – Dec. 3, 2021 to complete the School Climate Survey. This survey is important because a safe, inclusive, and accepting school environment is essential for student success and well-being.

The data collected from the School Climate Survey is used to inform the development of Bullying Prevention and Intervention Plans and to build strategies into School Improvement Plans to improve school climate. We appreciate your participation!

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The Canadian Centre for Child Protection (C3P) provided an informative parent session on Nov. 17, 2021, that was well attended by parents/guardians from throughout our district. Feedback from the session was very positive; parents/guardians were highly encouraged by the number of resources C3P provided. One area of focus was how to have positive conversations with kids so that they feel supported and safe while online. More information can be found on a variety of C3P’s platforms, including:

– the Canadian Centre for Child Protection’s main website with resources for families to help keep kids safe;

– a one-stop shop for all things about internet safety;

– a website with information about sextortion – including a video, lesson plan, tips to stay safe, and information about reporting;

– a website designed to help teens stop the spread of sexual pictures or videos and provides support such as information about how to involve a safe adult, helping a friend, and the laws in Canada/how to report;

– Canada’s tip line to report the online sexual exploitation of children;

– notifications sent out to inform the public of concerning technology trends and new resources designed to increase children’s personal safety.

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MLI HOMESTAY, one of �����ٳ���’s partners, is seeking families to host international students coming to North Bay in late January 2022.

Students are coming for long- and short-term studies. They will live as a member of the family, and compensation is provided to assist with expenses.

To learn more, contact Andrea Corbeil at acorbeil@mlihomestay.com , call 705-845-1988 or visit .

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Director of Education Craig Myles sends his best wishes to all students, staff and families for a most joyous holiday break.

COVID-19 has affected all over us over the past two years and as immunization has reduced the morbidity of the virus, we are seeing the return of some pre-pandemic activities at schools and in the community.

The Director is grateful for the board’s COVID-19 team for its leadership, and all staff and families for their diligence in adhering to the COVID-19 protocols that have kept NNDSB schools free from outbreak. We must balance the importance of friends and family, with awareness of the risks of gathering over the holidays.

Season’s greetings to all NNDSB staff and families.

*

NNDSB follows the direction of the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health and the public health unit when devising COVID-19 plans.

Thank you,

17�Թ���

Safe Cycling program rolling with funding partnership

A class set of bicycles has been purchased for 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) students in Grades 7 and 8 to learn more about walking and wheeling to school. The Safe Cycling with NNDSB project is a partnership between the board, the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit, Ride Smart and Ontario Provincial Police. It was funded through a grant from Ontario Active School Travel, a program of Green Communities Canada (GCC), a non-profit organization that promotes active school travel, and the Government of Ontario.

The $30,000 grant enabled the purchase of a fleet of bicycles, safety equipment, a portable trailer to store the bikes, and CanBike Level 4 accreditation for all teachers participating in the program.

The program uses the Ride Smart Cycle Education program to prepare students for safe use of bicycles, including which type of bike is safe for a variety of roadways, emergency braking, hand signals and shoulder checks. In addition to learning how to cycle safely, “students learn how active transportation can reduce their carbon footprint”, says Emily Samuel, principal of safe schools for NNDSB.

Safe Cycling with NNDSB was recently launched at the Humphrey Community Centre, where students displayed their cycling knowledge and skills, and where community partners were acknowledged.

In his opening remarks, NNDSB Chair Jay Aspin noted that supporting students to become confident and capable cyclists was an excellent application of experiential learning that supported the board’s commitment to Excellence in Teaching and Learning, one of the pillars of the board’s multi-year strategic plan.

Superintendent Gay Smylie added that, “Walking and wheeling to school supports healthy brain development, which can lead to improved learning and academic outcomes. Research proves that kids who move more aren’t just healthier, they also tend to do better academically, behave better in class and miss fewer days of school.”

The Government of Ontario is providing $1.5 million through March 2022 to GCC to support new active school travel initiatives across the province that will help prepare students for learning and improve safety in school zones. This follows a previous investment of $3.5 million toward 28 active school travel projects benefiting 52 communities across Ontario between 2017-2020.

“In recent decades we have seen a significant decline in rates of walking to school and a marked increase in traffic volumes in school zones,” said Kate Berry, Ontario

Active School Travel program director with GCG. “This initiative is a great opportunity to reverse these trends by expanding on the previous work in the Near North region to rebuild a culture of active school travel. We look forward to continuing to collaborate with and support our local partners to implement this exciting initiative.”

Walking and cycling to school (while maintaining social distancing) are considered safe and healthy activities by public health authorities. Safe Cycling with NNDSB, GCC and its many partners are working to make active transportation the “new normal.” Benefits to active school travel include improved physical and mental health and well-being, increased cognitive function and social development that improves academic performance, safer school zones through traffic calming and reduced congestion, and improved air quality and lower greenhouse gas emissions.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Nipissing Parry Sound Student Transportation Services (NPSSTS), or the Consortium, has requested distribution of this letter to families��regarding transportation delays.

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

Board provides update on new JK-12 Parry Sound school

With siding being installed this past weekend, the demolition at Parry Sound High School is 95 per cent complete.

The architect, the Ventin Group (+VG Architects), has reserved space for a design feature at the front of the building that will reflect Indigenous culture. In consultation with Trustee Nichole King, the First Nation representative on the Board, it was felt that students ought to have input into this space. Parry Sound High School Principal Dawn Buckland will work with students to ensure their thoughts and ideas are considered and incorporated into the build.

In meetings with the architect, NNDSB learned that the Parry Sound build is not immune from global supply chain challenges and significantly rising costs from the impact of COVID-19 resulting in overages. Administration is fully examining these challenges and results will be shared with stakeholders when the design is finalized.

Community members are invited to learn more via the Parry Sound Build Report page on the board’s website. The page is updated when required in order to answer questions from community stakeholders.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Trustees offer congratulations to retiring MPP Norm Miller

The Board of Trustees of 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) has sent a congratulatory letter to Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) Norm Miller, who recently announced his retirement. Miller will complete his term and will not run in next year’s general election.

The Conservative MPP has represented Parry Sound-Muskoka for 21 years.

Board Chair Jay Aspin and Vice-Chair John Cochrane, who represents students and families in the Parry Sound area, signed the letter, which notes MPP Miller’s influence has shaped the future of a generation of students and will continue to shape students due to support for the new JK-12 Parry Sound school that NNDSB is building.

“Inspired by his predecessor, his father Premier Frank Miller, Norm has always been a stalwart for the educational system in the Muskoka-Parry region,” said Chair Aspin. ”Our schools have been a key beneficiary of his service as his advocacy for the people of his riding and his diligence at Queen’s Park is reflected in the projects and legislation that have come to fruition during his tenure.”

Vice-Chair Cochrane said it has been a pleasure working with Miller and acknowledges the contribution of the MPP to many facets of life in the Parry Sound area. “Norm’s retirement is well-deserved,” he said.

During Miller’s terms in office, his private member’s Bill 228 Keeping Polystyrene Out of Ontario’s Lakes and Rivers Act was passed and became law, the Parry Sound Airport Industrial Park was expanded and its infrastructure upgraded, and students from Parry Sound High School were acknowledged in the House for their trip to France to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge and for leading the Community Remembrance Project.

The letter from NNDSB recognizes the collaboration that has taken place between NNDSB and Miller to align the board’s vision for students with the needs of the community.

Miller announced his retirement on Nov. 2, noting he is looking forward to spending more time with his family.

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For more information, please contact:
Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Dear Parents and Guardians,

This monthly Letter to Families is intended to keep you apprised of news that affects all students and families of 17�Թ��� (NNDSB). The Letter to Families is distributed on the first Friday of the month.

*

One of �����ٳ���’s community partners, Nipissing University’s Biidaaban Academic Support, is offering a tutoring program for Indigenous youth in Grades 3-8, with a focus on math and literacy.

Nipissing University student volunteers offer online or in-school tutoring support between October and March based on student needs and the tutor’s availability. Students will receive up to three hours of tutoring.

Families may register or contact Makayla Nowee at 705-474-3450 ext. 4586 or email makaylan@nipissingu.ca.

*

Families whose children are eligible for transportation should have received a notice from Nipissing-Parry Sound Student Transportation Service (the Consortium) regarding opting out of transportation services.

Seating charts have been created for contact tracing purposes. If students will not be accessing assigned transportation this year, families are asked to complete a form confirming they are opting out of busing services this school year. If you are in this situation and have not yet filled out a form, please contact your school secretary for the form.

*

There has been an update to the COVID-19 school and childcare screening tool.

Families should use of the tool to decide if they should be attending school or childcare.

*

Library services reminds families that NNDSB provides safe, accurate and age-appropriate online subscriptions to students through the NNDSB Virtual Library. These educational sites are available to elementary and secondary students from home, 24/7 for research and homework help.

The subscription also includes SORA, which is a student digital reading library for students to borrow e-books and audio books of popular fiction titles for their independent reading enjoyment. Subscriptions are password protected.

Students may reach out to their school librarian for login information.

*

NNDSB will continue to take steps and enact procedures that build resiliency, enhance the safety and well-being of all individuals in its schools and promote clear standards of behaviour. The board’s code of conduct, and each school’s individual code of conduct, reflect the requirements outlined in Policy/Program Memorandum No. 128 (Dec. 5, 2012).

The Ontario standards of behaviour apply to all individuals (principals, teachers, other school staff, students, parents/guardians, volunteers, community groups, partners, etc.) involved in the schools and activities of NNDSB. These standards of behaviour apply to students whether they are on school property, on school buses, travelling to and from school, at school-authorized events or activities, or in other circumstances that could have an impact on the school climate.

Families play an important role in the education of their children and can support the efforts of school staff in maintaining a safe, inclusive, accepting and respectful learning environment for all students. Parents and guardians fulfill their role when they:
• show that they are familiar with the provincial Code of Conduct, the board’s code of conduct, and school rules by conducting themselves in a respectful manner while at the school and while in conversation (in-person, phone, email) with the school;
• communicate regularly with the school;
• show an active interest in their child’s school work and progress;
• help their child be appropriately dressed, and prepared for school;
• ensure that their child attends school regularly and on time;
• promptly report to the school their child’s absence or late arrival;
• encourage and assist their child in following the rules of behaviour;
• assist school staff in dealing with disciplinary issues involving their child.
Learn more by reading your school’s code of conduct, available on your school’s website.

*

The Healthy 17�Թ��� Team has been hard at work this school year bringing many opportunities for increased physical health and well-being to students throughout the district. Last week we announced our newest project: Safe Cycling with NNDSB. This project, made possible through

partnerships with the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit, Ride Smart Ontario and the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), is aimed at Grade 7 and 8 students who will become conscientious, safe and skilled cyclists who can practice regular bike maintenance, troubleshoot mechanical problems, and learn how to cycle in all environments safely. This project was made possible thanks to funding provided through the Ontario Active School Travel Fund by Green Communities Canada with support from the Government of Ontario and will result in students becoming leaders in active transportation. Our goal is to get more students using travel modes that are active, safe and sustainable!

NNDSB received a generous grant from the Safe and Healthy 17�Թ��� Branch of the Ministry of Education to promote the sport of cricket.

Cricket is a global sport played worldwide and has generated significant interest in Canada in the last decade.
The program’s goal is to represent all genders, including providing a supportive environment for girls to participate in physical activity. The cricket initiative’s four key focus areas are equity; inclusion; quality opportunities; and collaboration and partnerships.

*

There has recently been a minor update made to the to provide further clarification on the federal government’s return to school requirements for students who are returning from international travel.

Individuals returning from international travel may not attend school or childcare for 14 days upon their return. For further clarity, while unvaccinated children under the age of 12 are exempt from federal quarantine if they travelled with a fully vaccinated companion, they may not attend school or childcare for 14 days upon their return. Individuals with all other quarantine exemptions (e.g., travelling for cross-border custody arrangements; travelling for medical treatment) may continue to attend school or childcare. Copies of the new screener are available for download .

Please ensure that your child uses this screening tool each day before attending school, as it is the best way to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in our schools.

*

NNDSB follows the direction of the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health and the public health unit when devising COVID-19 plans.

Thank you,
17�Թ���

West Ferris Secondary School Named Apple Distinguished School

West Ferris Secondary School is pleased to announce that it has been recognized as an Apple Distinguished School for 2021–2024 for its meaningful use of and programs such as in an effort to get students future-ready. Educators and students use iMac, MacBook Air and iPad to create innovative, personalized teaching and learning experiences.

Apple Distinguished 17�Թ��� are centres of innovation, leadership, and educational excellence. They use Apple technology to connect students to the world, fuel creativity, deepen collaboration, and make learning personal.

Sean Ruddy, the interim Principal of West Ferris says “We are very excited to be continuing our journey as an Apple Distinguished School. This recognition reaffirms our deep commitment to a cycle of innovation that continues to be a driving force for positive growth at our school.”

Brent Yacoback, the coordinator of the Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM) program says, “The staff and students of West Ferris are thrilled that West Ferris has been recognized as an Apple Distinguished School for 2021-2024.�� This recognition will help to inspire staff and students to continue to push the boundaries of what is possible with using technology in the classroom.”

Kendall Rosilius, a Grade 11 iCoach at the school says, “I was very excited to learn that West Ferris has been recognized as an Apple Distinguished school again.�� I think it’s great that future students will be able to benefit from the same opportunities that I’ve had as an iCoach at West Ferris.”

At the school, students are co-learners with their peers and teachers. The STEAM program provides students with unique learning opportunities that help students to appreciate and develop a good understanding of the interrelationships amongst various disciplines. A priority of STEAM is to ensure that students learn digital agility and master 21^st century competencies. Fundamental principles in the program develop students’ skills in problem-solving, analysis, experimentation, synthesis, and communication by integrating technology with project-based learning.

West Ferris students use MacBook, iMac and iPad to facilitate, enhance and redefine instruction of the curriculum in all STEAM courses. Learning is no longer defined by what is going on in the classroom but rather, has emerged as a 24-7 experience.

Staff are very excited to offer a new STEAM-focused construction SHSM pathway in September 2021. This extension of the program will leverage iPad, MacBook and iMac and link our existing coding continuum with our current construction SHSM. This new STEAM approach to the current SHSM will provide our students with opportunities to learn how to design, build and code robots.

For more than 29 years, the West Ferris STEAM program has to define “The Evolution of Learning” (the STEAM program’s motto).

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The weekly Letter to Families was intended to help you learn how 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) will support you in the return to school. We are hopeful that you and your child(ren) are settling into new routines. As a result, these letters will now be scheduled on a monthly, not weekly basis. The Letter to Families will be distributed on the first Friday of the month.

*

The 2021-2022 school year is off to a great start at secondary schools with the kickoff of Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) programs.

This year, we add two additional programs: Mining at Northern Secondary and Hospitality and Tourism at West Ferris Secondary.

These two incredible programs join our 15 existing programs to support hands-on and experiential learning that relate to career pathways and sector-related experiences. Students enrolled in SHSM have the opportunity to participate in unique certifications as well as learning alongside �����ٳ���’s community partners.

There is a SHSM program to match any student pathway! Students interested in these programs can reach out to their school’s guidance departments for more information��or,��visit the SHSM page of the board’s website to learn more.

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We encourage families to��take some time to��become familiar��with �����ٳ���’s virtual learning tools��and resources��to help prepare for any situation that results in your child(ren)��being required to learn from home.

The 17�Թ��� supports the use of virtual learning platforms that��allow students to connect with learning resources in a secure environment.��Three��primary, board-supported platforms include Brightspace��LMS, Edsby and Office 365.

Please familiarize yourself with these resources and tips to prepare for remote learning:

• students are encouraged to confirm they’re able to sign into their classroom virtual learning platform (LMS, Edsby, Office 365). If you encounter any issues logging in, please email passwordreset@nearnorthschools.ca or during regular school hours please call: (705) 472-5169 (North Bay), (705) 773-7975 (Parry Sound)
• use the following links for parent information regarding��Brightspace LMS��and��Edsby.��Contact your child’s teacher if��you’re��unable to login.������to reset your��parent��password
• the��Learning at Home��page hosts a variety of resources and helpful links to support at-home learning including access to various learning platforms as well as math and literacy resources
• Microsoft Teams is a board-supported communication tool used to connect synchronously using audio,��video��and chat.��Use the following link to learn how to join a Teams meeting across various devices:��Microsoft Teams for Students
• teachers��will continue to integrate��digital��tools into classroom learning��to ensure that students are prepared for a��possible “pivot”��to remote learning.

*

NNDSB follows the direction of the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health and the public health unit when devising COVID-19 plans.

Thank you,

17�Թ���

NNDSB taking steps on path to truth and reconciliation

17�Թ��� (NNDSB) recognizes it has a role to play in truth and reconciliation. As outlined in the that act as way finders – concrete steps to move forward in acknowledging the truth of Canada’s history with Indigenous Peoples – there is a role for education in the ��difficult and uncomfortable work of reconciliation.

It is imperative that the board climbs the mountain as requested by the Commission.

The path to truth and reconciliation will be slow and painful, but the steps must be taken. The Board of Trustees has proactively acknowledged this, and endeavours to be part of the change. In addition to opening meetings with a land acknowledgement, Board meetings now open with a prayer from an Elder. The Indigenous Trustee, elected by members of the First Nations to represent them on the Board, is actively consulted and her input valued in decision-making on issues that affect Indigenous students.

As an institution, NNDSB is taking steps in response to the Calls to Action, including:

• working to eliminate educational gaps between Indigenous and non-Indigenous children (have staff positions to support Indigenous families in education)
• on-going consultation with First Nations communities regarding new capital builds to ensure Indigenous students feel welcome and represented in NNDSB schools
• offering Indigenous language classes to all interested students at 12 schools
• formation of an Indigenous Youth Advisory Circle with membership of up to two students per secondary school. Once formed, the Youth Circle will determine a process for nomination and selection of an Indigenous Student Trustee to the Board
• providing resources and building capacity to support all staff and students in understanding Indigenous history, culture, perspectives, and ways of knowing
• encouraging and supporting non-Indigenous staff who want to take a First Nation, Metis and Inuit Additional Qualification course
• partnering with Anishinabek Education System (AES) to place two full-time cultural advisors/knowledge keepers in schools on a regular basis
• successful AES pilot project applicant to be one of five boards in the province to provide cultural competency training to administrators

The federal government has legislated Sept. 30, 2021 as the first National Truth and Reconciliation Day. NNDSB wants the day to be acknowledged in a way that is

most appropriate and meaningful to members of the eight First Nations that are NNDSB community partners, and other Indigenous Peoples in our schools. 17�Թ��� have been given the flexibility to provide community-relevant programming.

The legacy of residential schools weighs heavy in the hearts of survivors and their families, who have been subjected to 200 years of colonization and systemic discrimination. NNDSB will continue to climb the mountain and strive to do better.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Monday, Aug. 9, 2021

The following are the highlights of the special meeting of the 17�Թ��� of Thursday, Aug. 5, 2021.

COVID management, return to school

Trustees of 17�Թ��� received an update on COVID-19 management and return-to-school plans during the special board meeting Thursday night.

Director of Education Craig Myles told trustees that the Ministry of Education released its return-to-school on Tuesday, Aug. 3. Senior staff will carefully go over the document to understand what the return-to-school would look like. NNDSB sent a letter to families on Aug. 4, outlining a few key points and assuring families that when staff have plans in place, they would be shared.

Superintendent of Education Melanie Gray added that the board’s facilities department was well on the way to achieving the work required on ventilation systems in advance of the return to school on Sept. 7.

The province and public health units are encouraging anyone over the age of 12 who can get vaccinated to do so. There are no plans for vaccination clinics to be held at schools in the board.

Trustee Initiative Fund supports purchasing books

Trustees approved a $16,233 expenditure from the Trustee Initiative Fund to purchase 1,400 copies of the book This is What I’ve Been Told, written and illustrated by NNDSB teacher Julianna Armstrong, to be included in a resource bag that will be given to all Year 1 and Year 2 kindergarten students.

It is part of a new initiative called Journey into Learning that welcomes kindergarten learners and their families into the board. In addition to hosting board-wide events for families, Journey into Learning includes a bag with a guide and resources.

This year, the Early Years Team wanted a bag that more closely aligned with the visions and priorities of NNDSB as outlined in the Multi-Year Strategic Plan, with hopes of strengthening the bond between home and school.

This is What I’ve Been Told is an introduction to Anishinaabe language and culture. The report to the Board noted that beginning the Journey into Learning with an intentional focus on Indigenous Education signals the board’s values and visions to stakeholders and supports many of the calls to action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, specifically in the Education, and Language and Culture sections. Through the Trustee Initiative Fund, the Board of Trustees provides funding to organizations and projects that encompass an expanse of students from across the 17�Թ���, as a unifying platform. This application was approved unanimously.

Board seeking new trustee to represent Zone 2

NNDSB is seeking a trustee in Zone 2, following the resignation of Harry Fry, effective June 30, 2021. The Education Act provides the Board with several options for filling the position.

At Thursday’s meeting, trustees reviewed all options and opted to accept applications for the position, which will begin no later than Sept. 28, 2021 and end on Nov. 30, 2022, consistent with all trustees elected in 2018.

Zone 2 covers the areas of Bonfield, Mattawa and Callander.

Capital projects updated

Trustees approved the additional expenditure of $588,127 for 2020-2021 capital projects.

A report from Superintendent of Business Seija Van Haesendonck recapped the $5,786,015 of allocations from the Ministry of Education. This includes school renewal and school condition improvement funding.

Higher tender costs at six sites, as well as two unanticipated projects that were undertaken for site health, safety and security reasons, resulted in the need for the extra funding.

When the current projects are completed, there will be approximately $138,000 of school renewal allocation and $2,400,000 in school condition improvement funding remaining for future projects.

Consultant’s report on Parry Sound school received

The Board received a report from consultant Lygia Dallip on the JK-12 Parry Sound school being built, as recommended by the Parry Sound Build Committee. The report outlined requirements and expectations of the Ministry of Education throughout stages of capital projects, as well as a timeline of the build.

Dallip was engaged as an independent consultant to review the Board’s process related to the project. Her report outlines how the Ministry of Education uses a formula to assess effective use of school space. It is imperative that boards accurately account for enrolment, and the report says NNDSB has consistently been plus or minus two percent in its estimation of projected enrolments.

Addressing the concern of elementary and secondary students in the same school, the report notes the JK-12 model is a “means of managing the impact of declining enrolment across all grades.” It is a way to provide stronger extra-curricular programs in all divisions while providing stronger program opportunities for Grade 7 and 8 and specialized secondary school program spaces. Several boards in Ontario have JK-12 schools.

Dallip’s report is available on �����ٳ���’s website.

Partial demolition tender awarded for Parry Sound

Trustees awarded the tender for partial demolition at the site of Parry Sound High School to CLC Infrastructure Inc. in the amount of $937,618 plus HST.

Tender documents were reviewed by the Parry Sound Build Committee, which provided a recommendation to the Board.

Work will begin immediately to allow most of the demolition work to be completed before school begins, although there may be some on-going site work and some interior work taking place into September.

A media release about the tender, and all news pertaining to the new JK-12 Parry Sound School be found under the capital planning section of �����ٳ���’s website.

Board thanks Interim Executive Officer Easton

In a committee of the whole meeting held just prior to the Board meeting, Trustees had the opportunity to thank Interim Executive Officer Wally Easton for his work at NNDSB since February. He will be leaving the Board this week and has helped transition Seija Van Haesendonck into her role of Superintendent of Business.

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Note: the full agenda package is posted on the website prior to meetings, and official minutes are posted after they are approved at the next board meeting.

For more information, please contact:
Deb Bartlett (she/her)
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170 ext. 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Partial demolition tender awarded for Parry Sound build

At a special board meeting tonight, Trustees of 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) awarded the tender for partial demolition at the site of Parry Sound High School to CLC Infrastructure Inc. The tender is in the amount of $937,618 plus HST.

The special meeting was called at the request of Board Chair Jay Aspin in response to a recommendation received from the Parry Sound Build Committee, which reviewed the tender documents and provided a recommendation to the board regarding the tender award.

Work will begin immediately.

Chair Aspin says, “Terrific teamwork from our board of Trustees and administration has resulted in this welcome news for the Parry Sound region. We are moving forward with��a state-of-the-art K-12��educational facility which we expect will open September 2023.”

Most of the demolition work can be completed before school begins, although there may be on-going site work and some interior work taking place into September. The health and safety of all staff and students is paramount, and NNDSB will ensure the building is safe.

The partial demolition is required to fit the new JK-12 school on the existing site. This will allow for construction of the new school to begin in the spring, allowing 16 to 18 months for construction.

Upon review of the bids received, the board’s procurement team submitted a revised Approval to Proceed (ATP) to the Ministry of Education on July 27 seeking approval for an increased allocation to cover the professional fees and the demolition contract. The board received notice on August 3, 2021 that the increased allocation was approved by the Ministry, which increased the total funding of the build to $27,372,629.

“We are grateful to the Ministry of Education for its increased investment in this project that reflects the realities of our build at this time” says Seija Van Haesendonck, Superintendent of Business. She also expressed appreciation for the Ministry’s recognition of the time sensitivity of the revised request for ATP.

Staff and the architects, +VG Architects (The Ventin Group), have been meeting to discuss designs and site plans, which will be finalized in the next few weeks. In the fall, the board will submit a request to the Ministry of Education for approval to tender for construction.

“Our board is most appreciative of the valuable input we received through community support and give special recognition to��Vice-Chair John Cochrane, our Parry Sound representative,��and��Nichole King, our Indigenous Trustee representative. They have been true regional board champions of this new school,” says Chair Aspin.

He adds that NNDSB is most appreciative of community support and the valuable input it has received for this project.

The board is grateful for the support of the Government of Ontario in efforts to bring this facility to the Parry Sound area.

All news pertaining to the Parry Sound JK-12 build can be found under the capital planning section of �����ٳ���’s website.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Yesterday, the Ministry of Education released . This plan provides the direction that all school boards in Ontario, including 17�Թ��� (NNDSB), are to follow for the upcoming school year.

Staff are reviewing the document, and families will receive updated information about a safe return to school.

The full plan may be accessed via the link above. Here are a few key details of the announcement:

• Students will return to in-person learning for the full school day, although remote learning may have been selected in June as your family’s option for the upcoming school year;
• All staff and students will be required to self-screen every day before attending school. NNDSB uses the Ontario government ;
• Students in Grades 1-12 (encouraged for students in kindergarten) and staff will be required to wear masks while indoors and on . Masks are not required outdoors, and social distancing is encouraged;
• Extra-curricular and inter-school sport activities will be permitted with some modifications.

The Ministry of Education encourages vaccination as a tool to help stop the spread of COVID-19 and will work with the Ministry of Health and public health units to create vaccination opportunities for staff and students. Information about vaccines and local clinics may be found .

NNDSB has been supported by the provincial and federal governments in optimizing air quality in classrooms through improved ventilation and/or filtration and will continue to utilize best practice guidelines.

NNDSB will continue to follow the directions of the provincial government, the Ministry of Education and the health unit, and will keep families updated via Letters to Families, its website, and the board’s and accounts.

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

North Bay students benefit from generosity of Rotary Club

Students at five 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) schools are benefitting from the generosity of the Rotary Club of North Bay.

A donation of $1,800 enabled the purchase of food items that supports breakfast and nutrition programs, specifically for special education students. In five NNDSB schools, 60 students will be helped by the donation of non-perishable food items that will supplement the breakfast programs into the new school year.

“The Rotary Club of North Bay is pleased to provide support for the Special Education Breakfast/Nutritional Programs with the 17�Թ��� here in North Bay,” said Don Coutts, a club member. “One of the Rotary Club’s initiatives is providing assistance/support in various ways, for example, assistive devices, iPads, physiotherapy, sensory aids, just to name a few to those children and youth with disabilities in North Bay and area.”

NNDSB offers robust breakfast and nutrition programs at its schools to enhance student learning as a nutritious breakfast and snacks are imperative to learning. These programs allow students to choose a variety of healthy foods each day while at school.

One of the schools that received a food donation from the Rotary Club of North Bay was Woodland Public School.

“On behalf of our Woodland Public School community, we express our sincere appreciation to the Rotary Club for the generous donation of food items. This year, our Woodland Public School family has felt especially connected to the work of our local Rotarians as they’ve shown particular care for our in-person learners with special needs, and beyond this, they’ve named a graduating student from our school as the Rotary Student Ambassador. Our students and families benefit from the focus the North Bay Rotary Club and its members place on supporting children and youth in overcoming adversity. We are so grateful for their kindness and generosity,” said Principal Amanda Meighan.

“We are very grateful for the extremely generous food donation from the Rotary Club of North Bay to NNDSB face-to-face special education classrooms. The non-perishable food items will help to support our students now and into the fall,” said Pippa Madigan, �����ٳ���’s Elementary Program Coordinator. “We truly appreciate the generosity of our local partners in ensuring that our students have access to healthy foods each day while they are learning at school.”

NNDSB expresses its gratitude to the Rotary Club of North Bay for its continued generosity to the board’s schools, students, and their families.

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For more information, please contact:
Deb Bartlett (she/her)
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Community is built when people invest their time in organizations, and in each other. 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) supports the building of school communities by giving staff and students the opportunity to share talents while developing leadership skills.

At West Ferris Intermediate and Secondary School, several opportunities exist for participation in mentorship and leadership, some of them for credit.

Principal Andy Gagné says having students reach out to support other students

means an approach in a different and more comfortable way, that is often well received. An example of this is the iCoach program in which students in the Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) program work with and assist with technology in a class.

One of the many goals of the STEAM program is to help students master the 21^st century competencies that will help them to successfully navigate the job market of the future. STEAM students become resilient, self-sufficient learners that can quickly adapt to changing situations using the skills that they have learned in the program.

West Ferris is an Apple Distinguished School, recognized for being a centre of leadership and educational excellence. Apple supports the school’s vision as students’ creativity, collaboration and critical thinking are inspired with Mac products. It has helped STEAM students with their understanding and knowledge of technology and their understanding of collaboration and mentoring through such initiatives as iCoach.

Grade 11 STEAM student Kennedy Kerr was an iCoach for a Grade 10 academic English class. Though COVID altered the way she interacted with the class, she was easily able to help the teacher and students in a virtual mode.

In a video she created, Kennedy says, during the octomester as an iCoach, “I am not able to work with the students and the teacher one-on-one. My knowledge from the STEAM program has allowed me to adapt to this unexpected curve in my education with only a few challenges.” Kennedy was able to present work to students and the teacher with iMovies, trailers and Keynotes “in a way that can be shared and presented via online classroom meetings.”

The iCoach position provides unique leadership opportunities for the student, peer support for students in the class, and educational technology assistance to the staff.

Gagné says other mentorship positions occur in the school; within the four self-contained personal life management classrooms (one intermediate class, three secondary school classes). These are mentorship opportunities for which students can earn a credit.

As COVID created the need for cohorts, student leaders were only able to help in one class. Post-COVID, students will be able to support several classes.

At West Ferris, there are also non-credit programs that give students the opportunity to provide leadership, including in academics, physical education and sports, where secondary students mentor younger students.

These are some of the many ways NNDSB works to develop good citizenship in its students.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

��

Dear Parents and Guardians,

��student exchange is seeking families to host international secondary school students from countries around the world who are scheduled to attend schools in��the 17�Թ��� this fall. We are welcoming students from��Argentina, Belgium, Chile, Denmark, France and Japan for durations ranging from two months to the full school year.

Host families are responsible for providing three meals a day in a safe and nurturing environment. Host families are compensated with a monthly stipend of $500.

These international students have planned their study abroad program months in advance and are excited to learn more about the exchange country’s culture and language.

Students are required to comply with all Government of Canada and Public Health requirements during COVID-19 including any testing and quarantine requirements both prior to departure and upon arrival in Canada. Additionally, protocols and expectations regarding COVID-19 safety are provided to both the student and host family throughout the process – including prior to arrival and throughout the program. The YES Canada team are available to answer questions and provide information.

These exchanges are important as they connect individuals and cultures and remind��us of the��common interests, passions and goals. It is also a great way to establish life-long friendships and connections.

If you are interested in hosting an international secondary school student or would like to learn more about YES Canada’s homestay program, please contact��scott@youthedservices.ca��or call 416-623-6220 ext. 403.

To review program details, click��.

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

Students from across Ontario join NNDSB in summer

For six weeks every summer, students from across Ontario come to the in Mattawa and that are granted by the 17�Թ��� (NNDSB). The partnership between the board and the Centre has been going for approximately 30 years and has seen thousands of students learn in the “School of Experiential Education” over the summer months. Students attend for a two-week session, earning a secondary school credit (in an in-residence setting) through experiential learning. Courses from Grade 9-12 in geography, science, biology, physics and kinesiology are offered each summer.

Laura Kielpinski is the Director of Operations and Education at the Centre. In a non-COVID year, the Centre would be running four high school courses concurrently, with 80-90 students attending for a two-week session. Because of COVID, the Centre is running at 50 per cent of capacity, and some of the courses are blended, with some online and some in-person.

Kielpinski says the summer credit courses connect outdoor learning to academics, enriching the learning experience for students, whose classroom is primarily the outdoors, located within Samuel d Champlain Provincial Park. For example, the Grade 11 biology students came to a cold-water stream and monitored how heart rates changed in cold water. Kielpinski says the Centre “inspires intrigue and inquiry in learning.”

The students live on-site, experiencing a camp-like environment with cabins, campfires and canoes. “Students live here, learn here, eat here, play here,” she says. The teachers that are hired for each two-week course are outstanding educators who can bring creativity to their students; they aren’t confined by buildings and time.

The Centre is usually full by the end of the calendar year for the next summer’s program, says Kielpinski. Some students come because they are “reach aheaders” – they want to get a credit under their belt early, enabling more flexibility for options the next school year. Others just learn better outdoors and away from books. Many students are surprised to learn there are no textbooks for courses at the Canadian Ecology Centre.

�����ٳ���’s secondary summer school principal Jamey Byers says, “We are grateful that we have such a long-standing relationship with the Canadian Ecology Centre; it benefits students in so many ways and is a great facility. The educators and staff there have passion for what they teach, and the students are the beneficiaries of that passion.”

The first week of the 2021 summer program saw two classes – Grade 9 geography and Grade 11 biology.

Maya Yemm and Taryn Wozney are Grade 9 students, attending the Centre for the first time. Maya attends Ashbury College in Ottawa, and Taryn is a student at West Ferris in North Bay.

Maya liked being outside in nature and found there was a lot of cooperation among students in the course, it was not independent study. She said that helped her understand her peers better. She also thought that seeing things – such as an aquifer – made the lessons more real.

Taryn liked that the course was hands-on, and not just delivered from textbooks. She would recommend the summer course for anyone who likes being outside, and not confined to a classroom. She took the summer course to give her more flexibility to take courses she was interested in when school resumes in September.

Students Sebastian Altamirano and Liam Ferrell are both heading to Grade 11 in September. They met this summer in the biology class at the Canadian Ecology Centre.

Sebastian says he has difficulty concentrating and going to school online “didn’t work. I was distracted.” This is his first year taking the summer course and he loves going to school in the outdoor setting, where the class moves around a lot. Although there was an adjustment period, he likes the fast pace of the day, and the learning.

This is Liam’s third summer at the Canadian Ecology Centre. He loves that his classes are enriched with nature, are creative and that his two weeks is a unique blend of school and camp.

Located several hours north of his London, ON home, Sebastian likes the environment that he has not seen before. The rocks and forests are different than what he’s used to, and he saw red squirrels and a black bear during his session at the Centre.

Liam likes taking his mandatory course in the summer which allows him to take the electives he wants at his secondary school in Milton.

Sebastian says the teachers at the Centre have helped him to learn about himself. Students complete journals in which they reflect on course material and their day and their experiences. He says he has learned much about himself and how he manages; his newfound self-awareness will serve him well as he can communicate to his teachers about how he learns best.

Liam says students will love coming to school at the Centre. He describes how lessons come to life when the learning takes place outdoors, and that the education is delivered in ways that can’t be in a typical classroom.

Students interested in pursuing summer credit courses should contact their secondary school guidance counsellors and or visit the for more details and upcoming courses.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Experiential learning offers value beyond the classroom

Experiential learning provides��students the time and space to participate in the process of learning��by engaging in real life situations via hands-on activities and reflection.

At 17�Թ��� (NNDSB), it’s a process that is valued and that educators are encouraged to use. Students learn by doing and reflect on the experience. It builds on student curiosity and empowers them to drive their own learning and make meaning from the work they are doing.

Examples of this take place in all schools in NNDSB, frequently in the outdoors. One example of this multi-faceted learning is the paddle-making exercise that Grade 6 students at Mattawa District Public School experience every year. Students incorporate math lessons using fractions and measurement. They learn technology safety procedures (working with tools) and incorporate social studies and history, in learning the historical and contemporary contributions of First Nations, Metis and Inuit Peoples.

The paddle-making exercise results in students graduating from the school with a custom, hand-made canoe paddle.

Pre-COVID, the exercise took place in the wood shop of F.J. McElligott Secondary School as a means of supporting the transition from elementary to intermediate school, which is in the secondary school building. Although the tradition was paused during COVID, the Outdoor Education Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) students at F.J. McElligott look forward to once again teaching the Mattawa students how to use their paddles, the parts of canoe and boat safety. In the process of instructing the elementary students, in the annual paddle dip, the secondary students complete their practical canoeing exam.

This is one of the many ways learning and mentorship takes place in NNDSB schools every day.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

��

��

Federal funding for schools’ energy improvement costs

Funding through the federal government’s Climate Action Incentive Fund (CAIF) has paid for almost $300,000 worth of work that has been completed at two 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) schools.

CAIF is designed to help school boards make energy efficiency improvements and retrofits that reduce energy use, costs and carbon pollution. The funding covered projects that were federally approved and already completed.

Funding covered the installation of a rooftop HVAC/ERV and controls at Chippewa Secondary School ($116,844), which will improve energy efficiency, and roof and insulation replacement at Mattawa District Public School ($175,060), which will reduce heat loss. The $291,904 investment in NNDSB schools will create cost savings for the board.

The work was completed in the fall of 2020, and the board, with the assistance of the Ministry of Education, applied for CAIF when the new funding was announced.

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For more information, please contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

NNDSB initiatives enable students to be role models for younger students

Traits like being generous, compassionate, cooperative and considerate aren’t just being talked about in 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) schools, they’re being modelled. Staff carefully plan initiatives that are designed to build character and create role models in schools. The initiatives provide the opportunity for leadership by older students, while giving younger students people to look up to.

The projects that Parry Sound High School Construction Technology students made this year for their young peers at McDougall Public School are great examples of mutually beneficial activities. Mr. Buckland’s students made picnic tables and portable chalkboards that will be used this fall at McDougall Public School’s outdoor learning spaces. The portable boards can be used in any outdoor space and stored inside when not in use. They can be used at the new Parry Sound JK-12 school’s outdoor learning spaces in future.

These projects bring together many aspects of education that are important in NNDSB. In addition to the above-mentioned character building that takes place, the initiative at Parry Sound High School contributes to outdoor learning that schools in the district are fortunate to be able to provide, while at the same time creating role models of the secondary school students and very happy young learners.

The project involved a contribution from community partner Gray’s Paint & Flooring, that donated chalkboard paint and supplies.

These initiatives are subtle yet effective ways to help build character in students. By encouraging them to develop positive character traits, NNDSB staff enrich students’ lives outside of academics. These character traits help develop young adults, and give them a framework to make mindful, important decisions in life. They create a sense of community whereby our elementary students feel connected to the secondary school.

Other opportunities that are usually on the go in a non-COVID world include Iron Chef competitions for Grade 7 and 8 students hosted and mentored by the Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) Culinary Arts students and school-organized community pow wows, to which the five local First Nations are invited.

We look forward to the opportunities ahead.

For more information contact:

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Invitation to Parry Sound build community presentation

17�Թ��� (NNDSB) would like to invite you to a community review of the new JK-12 school project on Tuesday, June 8, 2021 at 7 p.m. Together with NNDSB, The Ventin Group Architects (+VG) will be presenting an early look at the preliminary site plans and the new school’s conceptual floor plan layout.

Opening remarks will be offered by the Board of Trustees and senior administration before inviting Principal Architect, Paul Sapounzi, to review a presentation. The presentation will be approximately 30 minutes in duration, followed by an opportunity to address design-specific questions.

This is an exciting new school build for Parry Sound and surrounding areas. Please refer to the board’s website for the link to join the virtual presentation.

Information about 17�Թ���:

17�Թ��� is an English-language public school board serving the North Bay – Parry Sound – Nipissing area. The Board consists of approximately 10,000 students in 27 elementary schools, seven secondary/senior schools and various alternative learning centres. For more information, please visit nearnorthschools.ca and follow 17�Թ��� on Social media.

For more information, please contact:
Deb Bartlett (she/her)
Communications Officer
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170 ext. 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Premier Doug Ford announced this afternoon that Ontario schools will remain closed to in-person learning for the remainder of this school year. 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) students will continue to learn remotely until the end of the month.

While it is disappointing that staff and students won’t be able to see each other in person before the school year ends, the board looks forward to a return to face-to-face instruction.

If you have questions about your child’s learning, please reach out to their teacher.

�����ٳ���’s website features resources for families, including learning and mental health supports. The website, as well as the board’s and accounts, are updated regularly and are a great source of news and information for families.

We learned today that school boards are authorized, after consulting with public health units, to hold outdoor graduations. NNDSB will be reaching out to the health unit to discuss the possibility of outdoor graduations. If you have a student graduating, watch for communication from your child’s school regarding their graduation ceremony.

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

Dear Parents and Guardians,

��The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit released information today regarding the safety and eligibility of COVID-19 vaccines for youth.

Health Canada has authorized the use of Pfizer-BioNTech has been authorized for use by youth 12 and older, and Ontario youths aged 12-17 are now eligible to register for vaccination.

Below are links and a brief description of the communication from the health unit.

Email to Parents – COVID-19 vaccine clinics for youth

Youth messaging – COVID-19 vaccine clinics for youth

Child and Youth COVID-19 fact sheet

Child and Youth COVID-19 poster

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

Dear Parents and Guardians,

In-Person Learning or Technology-Enabled Remote Learning:

an important choice for NNDSB families for the 2021-2022 school year

17�Թ��� (NNDSB) will be excited to welcome students and staff back to school in September 2021. The following information is important for families to review as you make the important decision about the mode of learning for your child(ren) for September.

This decision is for the entire year.

NNDSB believes in-person learning best supports most students, however, we recognize that given unique circumstances, some families may want their child to learn remotely. In line with guidance from the Ministry of Education, NNDSB is offering a technology-enabled remote learning option in September.

Please review the information below to make an informed decision.

IN-PERSON LEARNING

Below are details of in-person learning which is subject to change based on the advice and direction of the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit and/or the Ontario Ministry of Education.

Teachers in both streams will continue to be expected to maintain a virtual learning environment in order to support a transition to remote learning should the need arise or where individual students are required to isolate for a limited time.

Elementary in-person learning

In-person learning for students in Kindergarten to Grade 8 will be modeled on current practice.

• Students will continue to be cohorted by class and staff will rotate from class to class as the schedule demands.
• There will be a continued focus on reducing the number of educator contacts who are delivering instruction to each homeroom/cohort.

Secondary in-person learning

In-person learning will begin with the current safety measures in place. As we move through the school year, we hope to be able to incrementally resume more regular activities and operations.

• We plan to organize our secondary schools into octomesters for at least the first semester.

If you are choosing this option for your child(ren), you are not required to do anything. It will be assumed that you are choosing in-person learning.

TECHNOLOGY-ENABLED REMOTE LEARNING (TERL)

NNDSB will offer technology-enabled remote learning for students who wish to learn virtually. With more students returning to in-person classes, our ability to offer a similar breadth of programs as was offered during the 2020-2021 school year will be limited. Students will be registered with the remote learning school for the entire school year and will not be attached to their current home school.

The remote school may be attended synchronously (in real-time, interactive with teacher and class) or asynchronously (with daily check-in but work done independently) but no paper packages will be made available.

Technology-enabled remote learning – elementary school (TERL-ES)

The TERL-ES will offer the full-day kindergarten program, the English program, Native Studies Language and Core French. NNDSB cannot guarantee French Immersion or Extended French programming for TERL-ES, pending registration numbers and given the limited availability of qualified teachers.

• Families wanting French Immersion or Extended French should select in-person learning.
• Like this year, TERL-ES will include multi-grade combined classes.
• Students enrolled in the TERL-ES will be registered with the TERL school and not attached to their current home school.
• Where Internet access is not possible, parents may request a technology-enabled asynchronous program that makes use of the Learning Management System and multi-media resources.

Technology-enabled remote learning – secondary school (TERL-SS)

The TERL-SS will offer a limited selection of courses in each grade level in all program pathways. Secondary students have already completed course selections for next year and for students and families opting to attend TERL-SS, every effort will be made to offer courses that students require for their chose pathways to graduation.

• If students have selected courses not available at TERL-SS, they will have the option to select from a catalogue of e-learning courses.
• System and school-specialized programs will only be available through in-person learning.
• The TERL-SS will follow the same calendar and daily schedule as in-person programming.

Special Education, specialized program classes and IEPs

Our experience this year has shown that in-person learning is the best format to support students with special education needs, particularly those in congregated classes and alternative educations programs. For this reason, in the 2021-2022 school year, congregated classes and alternative education programs will return in-person.

Other students with special education needs will continue to be supported with the necessary accommodations, modifications or alternative programs provided in their Individual Education Plan (IEP), whether their choice is for in-person or TERL.

If you are choosing this option for your child(ren) you must complete a for each student who will be assigned to the remote learning school for the 2021-2022 school year. Parents and guardians are asked to complete the form by end of day Sunday, June 6, 2021. We require time to ensure our schools and programs are resourced and staffed appropriately.

If you have questions, please see the Looking Ahead to 2021-22 page on �����ٳ���’s website. It contains a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section; parents and guardians who have questions that are not answered here are encouraged to , which will be answered on the page (thus increasing the FAQs which are available to all).

Thank you for helping us to prepare. We’re ready to welcome your children back to our safe, caring and inclusive classrooms in September 2021.

Sincerely,

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