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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March Break is just around the corner! A reminder that the March Break takes place from Friday, March 13 up to and including Friday, March 20. We welcome staff and students back to school on Monday, March 23.

We wish everyone has a happy, healthy March Break!

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School Mental Health Ontario has launched a four-part parent/caregiver webinar series focused on key mental health and substance use health topics identified by parents and caregivers in Ontario. The webinars will feature a presentation by leading experts on the topics.

The first session about balanced device use has already been held. Upcoming webinar topics and dates are: conversations about vaping, April 10; conversations about body image, May 7; conversations about anxiety, June 5.

Parents and caregivers can submit questions in advance via .

All sessions will be uploaded to the .

Here is the for these free webinars.

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The Math Department is planning a virtual math session for parents from Grades JK-12. The presentation will take place on March 31^st��from 6:30 to 7:30 pm. The presenter is Scott Elliot, Chartered Professional Accountant.

The learning objectives for participants are to obtain information and tips to raise kids who are financially independent and responsible, to better understand the challenges of raising money-smart kids and to learn how to address age-appropriate money-related topics with young kids, pre-teens, teenagers, and emerging adults.

Some of the topics discussed will include why teaching kids about money is important, the goals and challenges of raising money smart kids and tips on allowance, budgeting, credit cards, cell phones and virtual spending.

To register, parents/guardians can use this link:��

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

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

Nipissing Parry Sound Student Transportation Services (NPSSTS) has been advised by Alouette Bus Lines that they are able to operate the following routes beginning Thursday February 26, 2026, in the morning:��001, 610 also covering 605, 268, 286, 011, 022, 063, 064, 065, 061, 062, 014 also covering 066.��

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

F.J. McElligott Secondary School’s Hockey Skills Academy students had the rare opportunity to hit the ice with Canadian hockey legend Ted Nolan. The former NHL player and coach spent time with students on the ice at the Mike Rodden arena in Mattawa.

Nolan, who was in Mattawa to share his message of perseverance with the community at the school auditorium, spent an hour on ice with students, running them through drills and sharing tips he has learned from his decades-long career.

Nolan said programs like the Hockey Skills Academy help to get young players back to the root of what is important – the love of the game.

“It’s people that really make a difference,” Nolan said. “I never went to hockey schools. I just played and I fell in love with the game through that method. That’s what we have to do here in Canada, just bring back the love of the game to our kids. You don’t have to have the best skates, you just have to get the opportunity to play.”

Students have been researching Ted Nolan’s story since last year. As a class they had the opportunity to learn more about Nolan through lessons and videos in class. Students have also been working on their leadership skills on the ice to prepare for his arrival.

“Experiences like this are incredibly important for Hockey Skills students because they help connect what they’re learning on the ice to their overall growth as students and young athletes, giving them a renewed sense of purpose and motivation. On the ice, opportunities like these can reignite their confidence, help them see the progress they’ve made, and encourage them to continue pushing their limits and developing their skills,” teacher Cody Lacelle said. “Off the ice, especially with examinations only a week away, I hope this experience gives them an extra spark of motivation to bring the same discipline, focus, and resilience they use in hockey into their academic work.”

“It was really cool to learn from a former NHL coach who has won at every level of hockey. I liked how the drills he showed us really emphasized vision,” Grade 12 student Josh said. “I thought it was a really good tip when he told us that every pass doesn’t need to be a bullet if you can put it in a good spot for your teammate to receive the pass. I learned that hard work and never giving up will lead to success.”

Grade 11 travel and tourism students at Chippewa Secondary School pitched their best North Bay tourism ideas to a panel of northern tourism professionals in a Dragon’s Den-inspired activity called Moose Moguls.

The expert panel provided un-biased constructive feedback which students could then use to improve and refine their business plans.

In this course, students learn about destinations, transportation, marketing and customer service. The goal is to prepare students for careers in tourism and hospitality, and to develop awareness of global and local tourism issues.

Teacher Jonathon Corbett says developing tourism business ideas helps students consider alternative paths to traditional education and possibly become entrepreneurs.

“Many students leave North Bay to pursue their careers. This project has students creating their own opportunities, while learning to appreciate the beauty of their own backyard,” Corbett says, “The presentation aspect prepares students for essential tourism skills, such as, pitching destinations, creating itineraries, promoting experiences, calculating costs and guiding.”

The focus on local tourism helped to keep student projects as realistic as possible. Students began researching currently available tourism options and identified gaps they could fill. Most were able to find unique opportunities in their own backyard, of which they were previously unaware.

Local tourism boosts our economy, creates jobs, and provides sustainable and accessible opportunities in Northern Ontario. It also helps students appreciate their own region’s culture and attractions, which is key for building community pride and promoting nearby destinations. There were a couple of exchange students who created business plans in their home countries, which helped broaden the class’s overall perspective.

Student business ideas included guided eco-tours of the natural beauty of the North Bay area, a rage room where customers could pay to destroy appliances, dishes and furniture as a fun and safe expression of their frustrations and a pet café where customers can enjoy coffee and snacks while their pet plays in a friendly environment.

Darren Patey, partnership and product development lead with Northeastern Ontario Tourism, said the presentations were well thought out and the students delivered a variety of ideas. It was great to see the students work on their presentation skills, as speaking to a group is something not many are comfortable with.

“There were a few students offering guiding and or workshop-type products that stood out to me. We are seeing an increase in the demand from visitors for experiential products, where they could learn about the history, learn a skill, or achieve a connection to a community,” Patey said. “Whether that product is about bushcraft style camping, doing a polar plunge, or making jewelry or food, it was great to see students seeking opportunities to include local ingredients and partnerships.”

Travel and tourism student Tam said, “I really enjoyed this project because it showed me so many ways to start up my business idea and how to get a good picture of what I would expect if I started my business idea. The money would honestly be a challenge, but I would research a lot more into getting started. My business plan would be really cool and eco-friendly and safe and kind of cheap. After this project, I’m going to look into it and see how I can start and bring my idea to life.”

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.

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.

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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 NNDSB’s website, and are encouraged to speak with a trusted staff member at their school.

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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.

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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.

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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”.

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

Sincerely,

17�Թ���

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!

To our valued bus drivers,

As we celebrate National School Bus Safety Week and School Bus Driver Appreciation Day, I want to let everyone at Nipissing Parry Sound Student Transportation Services (NPSSTS) know how valued you are by 17�Թ��� (NNDSB).

Every day, we – along with thousands of NNDSB students and their families – put our trust in you to get the students to school, and back home at the end of the day. Bus drivers in this part of Ontario carry huge responsibility, transporting precious cargo through remote areas, often on treacherous roads.

NNDSB appreciates the partnership with the NPSSTS and the service it provides to the board and our students. We send all of you a hearty thank you today, School Bus Driver Appreciation Day.

Craig Myles
Director of Education

In order to make this presentation as accessible as possible, we have made this a PDF with multi-media images and video incorporated. Please download the presentation and open it in Adobe Acrobat. For the embedded videos, please click on the play button and a yellow banner on the top will pop up saying “Multimedia and 3D content has been disabled. Enable this feature if you trust the document.” Select Options on the far right and click one of two options. Next, click the video and it will play.

Click the above image or here for the Thank You presentation.

Each year around the holiday season, schools from all across 17�Թ��� (NNDSB) participate in the act of giving. This year is no exception. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, students have collected donations in a safe manner.

NNDSB schools have collected food, clothing, and monetary donations to help their communities. Students from South River Public School collected food donations during their week-long campaign, which ran from December 7-11 for the local Good Happenings Food Bank.

In addition to these kind acts, there is a multi-learning connection. Character building is one example. This builds on the already outstanding��traits that students have, but service-sacrificing ones own desires and time or energy to benefit others. This initiative also has a math connection. While the donations came in, students created and updated a graph while learning data management.

Congratulations and thank you of your continued success in helping your communities.

For Alex Little, 17, hockey is a passion. The West Ferris Secondary School (WFSS) student was selected as a prospect earlier this year by the North Bay Battalion in the Ontario Hockey League’s annual OHL Under-18 Priority selection, which was held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

When Little moved to North Bay last year, he chose WFSS because of the increased program offerings, sports complex, and the positive atmosphere.

“Honestly I heard West Ferris was one of the nicest schools around. It has great people and I wanted to surround myself with a great atmosphere because I moved to North Bay and away from my family,” he explained that the weight room and sports complex are topnotch. “The weight room here is amazing. [The sports complex] has everything that you need from bikes to cardio to weight racks, dumbbells…it’s a very great setup.”

The Grade 12 student currently plays for the Powassan Voodoos, a Junior “A” team in the NOJHL (Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League). He was drafted 41st overall by the Battalion as they worked to build a contender.

“I think they have a great shot at winning in the future. They’re building up a young roster right now.”

Little said hearing his name during the draft was really cool since it is the OHL and that it was the Battalion made it even better. For him, it’s one step closer to having his dream come true.

“Right now, I’m training and trying to make the Battalion’s camp, so I can show them what I can bring to the team in the future.”

As he waits for training camp and exhibition season to begin, Little said staying personally fit during COVID-19 can be a challenge for some, he’s actually improved his workouts.

“I was actually able to work out harder to increase my strength and endurance,” explained Little.

He also acknowledges that having a good support system is key.

“Everyone that I’m surrounded by is always pushing me to be my best, it’s great.”

The Haliburton native ventured further north last year because there were more opportunities in hockey; the North Bay Trappers, the Powassan Voodoos, and ultimately the OHL’s North Bay Battalion.

“[I’m hoping to] have a good year with Powassan and then hopefully get on the Battalion roster and move onto higher levels of hockey in my life,” he said.

The 6’1” defender said some of his interests outside of hockey include being in weight rooms, playing video games, and hanging out with his billet brothers.

“My billet brothers and I shoot pucks, shoot baskets, play golf. Really anything to keep us busy and outside.”

Billet families are members of the community, screened by the teams, that invite junior players into their homes to be a part of their family during the hockey season, when the players are on teams that are not close to home.

As with any athlete, managing education, sports, and training is always a balancing act.

“I just try to make sure that I’m focused in class and get everything done during the school day, so that when we have a lot of practices or go on the road that I have everything done,” Little stated.

WFSS is able to offer a blended mode for all players and students who participate in extracurricular activities.

Echoing Little, Battalion General Manager and former professional hockey player, Adam Dennis said being a good student is transferable to being a solid player.

“As a hockey player, it is very important to understand that being a good student can be a big asset to your on-ice game. The ability to follow instruction, solve problems and work hard are things we expect from our players. This expectation needs to be carried over into all aspects of your life. To achieve that, players must prioritize their time with what’s important.”

Any hockey player has their own idol and for Little, it’s Alexander Ovechkin.

“He’s a great leader, plays hard, and is just somebody who enjoys the game. He shows to everyone how amazing of a career it is and if you put in the hard work, you can have the great life that he does.”

The dream for Little, who has been playing hockey since the age of six and on the ice since three, is to make it to the National Hockey League (NHL).

“Ever since I started playing the game, I loved it … just everything about the sport is amazing.” Little added that even though the chances of making it to the NHL are slim, it shouldn’t be a deterrent to have fun and enjoy the game. “I keep pushing through and enjoying what I’m doing, that’s a big thing because if you’re not enjoying it, you’re not going to push yourself to the next step.”

Dennis says Little is a smart player and that’s what makes him great at the game.

“Alex is a very composed defenceman that can affect the game at both ends of the ice. His smarts are his best asset.”

For more information, please contact:
Josh Casey
Information/Communication Coordinator
17�Թ���
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5083
E. Josh.Casey@nearnorthschools.ca

The Extended French program is a French-language learning option that is open and available to all students, including students with special needs and identified students. Student IEPs will outline the support necessary for student success.

Our Extended French program implements the following model:

• Grades 5 and 6 – 60% of grade-level programs and subjects are instructed in French.
• Grades 7 and 8 – 50% of the daily program are instructed in French
• Secondary school – a minimum of 4 Extended French courses taught in French.

To learn more about the program, please visit us online at /programs/fsl/extended-french/. ��We will also be hosting a virtual information session on June 4, 2020, at 6: 30 p.m., which you can access through our website.�� Our staff are looking forward to answering any questions you may have and introducing you to our Extended French program.

If you wish to register your child for the Extended French program or obtain more information, please contact the board office at (705) 472-8170 or email info@nearnorthschools.ca.

Due to safety concerns including inability to provide the required supervision to students, a full withdrawal of services will result in all elementary and secondary schools being closed to students on Thursday, March 5, 2020.

While we understand that this is a challenging time, parents will be required to make alternate arrangements for their children.

Given that this is a one-day full withdrawal of services, all schools will re-open on Friday, March 6, 2020.

All Early Years Programs; Childcare, School Aged Programs and Early On Child and Family Centres will remain open. Community Use will run as usual.

For more information, please contact:

Mairghread Knought
Information/Communication Officer
17�Թ���
(705) 472-8170, extension 5010
Mairghread.Knought@nearnorthschools.ca

Due to safety concerns including inability to provide the required supervision to students, on February 5 and 6, 2020 all NNDSB schools will be closed to elementary students (Grade JK-8) but will remain open and accessible to Grade 9 -12 students.

While we understand that this is a challenging time, parents will be required to make alternate arrangements for their children.

All schools will re-open to elementary students on Friday, February 7, 2020.

All Early Years Programs; Childcare, School Aged Programs and Early On Child and Family Centres will remain open. Community Use will run as usual.

��For more information, please contact:

Mairghread Knought
Information/Communication Officer
17�Թ���
(705) 472-8170, extension 5010
Mairghread.Knought@nearnorthschools.ca

“The��17�Թ��� should prepare a new final staff report that explains the additional information received in the summer of 2017 and that was discussed in private in September 2017. It should present the report to trustees as part of a public meeting, afford community members an opportunity to comment on it, and then take a new vote on the secondary school consolidation.”����

The new final staff report and attached documentation was presented to the Board of Trustees at a Special Committee of the Whole meeting on Monday, August 19, 2019 at 6:00 p.m.�� The report along with the Initial and Final Staff Report regarding the Secondary School Consolidation can be accessed below:

Updated Final Staff Report – August 13, 2019
Initial Staff Report North Bay Planning Area Accommodation Review – December 13, 2016
Final Staff Report North Bay Planning Area Accommodation Review – May 23, 2017

Members of the public are invited to submit comments to info@nearnorthschools.ca.�� Any received comments will be compiled and presented to the Board of Trustees at the September 10, 2019 Committee of the Whole beginning at 6:00 p.m.��

Parties who wish to speak to the secondary school consolidation will need to register with the Board Office by 12:00 p.m. on Friday, September 6, 2019.����

The Board of Trustees will re-vote on the��secondary��school��consolidation at the September 24, 2019 Regular Board Meeting beginning at 6:00 p.m.����

For more information, please contact: �� ��

Mairghread Knought ��
Information/Communication Officer ��
17�Թ��� ��
(705) 472-8170, extension 5010 
Mairghread.Knought@nearnorthschools.ca ��

Attention: The Honourable Lisa Thompson, Minister of Education:

On behalf of the 17�Թ��� we are writing to express our disappointment with the proposed changes that form part of Ontario’s new vision of “Education that Works for You”.�� As��provincial education partners, we recognize the government’s commitment to fiscal responsibility. We��also know that Ontario’s education system is recognized globally.�� We want to work collaboratively��to both improve and maintain the high quality of education in this province.

We, as a Board of Trustees, are responsible to our community, students, parents and staff for ensuring the provision of quality education in all of our schools.�� As a Northern board with a mix of urban and rural communities the proposed changes present us with challenges in continuing to meet our mandate “To educate learners to their fullest potential in preparation for life-long learning”.

Specifically, we are concerned about the long and short-term impact of the proposed changes to student achievement and well-being.

Increase in Class Size

The proposed increase in class sizes will result in a reduction of teaching positions, thereby limiting the ability of students to have needed one-on-one interactions with teachers.�� In addition, as a Northern Board with a number of smaller rural schools, meeting the required class size requirements is challenging as the student population is not always available.

One of the significant concerns for our Board is the ability to offer courses and specialized programming with the reduction in staffing.�� With a smaller population base, this combination of increased class size and reduction of staffing positions will significantly limit the number of elective and specialized programming available.�� This will effectively put our students at a disadvantage when compared to their Southern Ontario counterparts.�� In order to ensure that Northern Ontario remains economically viable our future employees and citizens must have access to quality education.

Reduction in Staffing

The required reduction in full-time teaching positions due to increased class sizes and elimination of program specific grants will significantly impact students and organizational function.�� While the loss of teaching positions due to increased class sizes will be eligible for financial assistance through the “Attrition Protection”, there are a significant number of other key positions not protected in this regard, which will also be reduced including school support staff and educational assistants.

These positions are an integral component of our education system and enable the creation of safe and inclusive learning spaces that support our most vulnerable students.�� The 17�Թ��� is proud of the steps we have taken towards creating such an environment.�� However, it will be difficult to continue our work and growth in this area without the knowledge, expertise and commitment of our qualified and trained staff.

As you are aware, recruitment and retention of qualified and talented individuals can be difficult in Northern Ontario due to demographics and population challenges.���� We anticipate that the replacement of key positions with the required skills will be extremely difficult.

Mandatory E-Learning

As a Board we strive to ensure that all of our students have equitable access to required programs and resources.�� In addition, we recognize that our students are individuals with unique needs and challenges that vary across our district.�� Like many of our counterparts, we already offer e-learning courses, but know that in many areas of our school board��students are unable to access reliable internet service and/or transportation to an accessible location.��The e-learning environment is not appropriate for all students and subject matter.

Funding Cuts

Several funding cuts have been announced including the reduction in the secondary programming amount��in the Pupil Foundation Grant, the Cost Adjustment Allocation and the Human Resource Transition��Supplement. ��Reductions in funding result in the loss of employees who��contribute every day to student achievement.

We are pleased to see that the government continues to invite consultation and hope it seriously��considers input from school boards. We ask that you focus on students and the needs and concerns outlined and reconsider the changes to class sizes and funding that will impact both the programs we can offer to��students and the number of employees in our system.�� The proposed staffing and funding changes will require adjustments to programming, portfolios and students’ supports, which will have far-reaching and long-term impact on our students and therefore the economics of our communities.

We look forward to continued dialogue with you regarding this matter.���� Thank you for your time and consideration in reviewing our concerns.

Sincerely,

Jay Aspin
Chairperson, 17�Թ���

Cc.���������� The Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario
The Honourable Vic Fedeli, Minister of Finance, MPP Nipissing
Norm Miller, MPP Parry Sound-Muskoka
OPSBA
FONOM

All eligible Students from the Parry Sound area entering first or second year of Kindergarten or Grade 1, including students from the following schools, may register for the proposed French Immersion Program in Parry Sound (transportation will be provided):

• MacTier Public School
• Humphrey Public School
• McDougall Public School
• Nobel Public School
• Parry Sound Public School
• Britt Public School
• Whitestone Lake Central School

The French Immersion Program in ELK, embodies the philosophies of the Early Learning Kindergarten program while infusing the French language. At the NNDSB, 90% of the instruction in ELK and in Grade 1 are done in French. Our educator teams work with the students, at their level, to ensure understanding and development of literacy behaviours that foster proficiency in both French and English languages. Our teams strive to encourage communication in the second language while developing their critical thinking skills in what they notice, hear, and read as well as express themselves in a variety of ways. The development of thinking and speaking in young children provides them with a strong basis for successful learning throughout their lives. The provincial vision for the FSL program, “Students will communicate and interact with growing confidence in French, one of Canada’s official languages, while developing the knowledge, skills, and perspectives they need to participate fully as citizens in Canada and in the world.” (French as a Second Language curriculum)

If you are interested in registering your child or children in the French Immersion Program in the Parry Sound area, click on this ��to complete the survey or go to the board website. If you have questions, please contact Krista Holmes at 705.746.9371 ext 7003 or Krista.Holmes@nearnorthschools.ca

The attached report meets all of the Ministry of Educations requirements with respect to the Annual Report including, but not limited to:

• The Board’s strategic goals and progress made towards those goals.
• Action taken towards the promotion of a positive school climate and prevention of bullying.
• Training and professional development for employees with respect to equity and inclusive education.
• Efforts to actively engage and integrate feedback from students, parents and community partners.

The information contained in the attached report is only a snapshot of all work, programming and accomplishments of the NNDSB over the past year.���� We are fortunate to have such dedicated and competent educators within our schools and Board.

Director’s Annual Report 2017-2018

For more information, please contact:

Mairghread Knought
Information/Communications Officer
17�Թ���
Tel:�� 705-472-8170 ext. 5010
Email: Mairghread.Knought@nearnorthschools.ca

In many ways, Canada’s military efforts over the years can be seen as a “road to peace.”�� 2018 marks the centennial of “Canada’s Hundred Days”—the series of impressive battlefield victories by the Canadian Corps over the last three months of the First World War.�� It is also the 100th anniversary of the Armistice that finally brought an end to four years of brutal conflict.

Our service members displayed great courage during the last hundred days of the conflict.�� Thirty men from Canada and Newfoundland earned the Victoria Cross—the highest award for military valour they could receive—during this period.�� This Remembrance Day, bells in Canadian communities from coast to coast to coast will again ring out to mark the 100th anniversary of this important milestone.

This Veterans’ Week, we honour those who served and died as our country has steadily pushed forward on the long and difficult road to peace—a precious yet fragile ideal. How will you remember?
For more information visit

Photo credits (top to bottom): Library and Archives Canada

PA-003286, PA-003022 and PA-040231
© Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada, represented by the Minister of Veterans Affairs, 2018.

Zone 1 (4 Representatives)
Jay Aspin
Donna Breault
Louise Sargent
Bill Steer

Zone 2 (1 Representative)
Greg Barnes

Zone 3 (1 Representative)
Rob Learn

Zone 4 (1 Representative)
John Cochrane

Zone 5 (1 Representative)
Al Bottomley

Nipissing First Nations (1 Representative)
Nichole King

Elected Trustees will officially be sworn in and take office at 5 p.m. on December 4, 2018 during the Inaugural Meeting.�� The Inaugural Meeting is a public meeting and will take place at the Board Office located at 963 Airport Road and will be followed by the Annual Organizational Meeting at 6.p in which the Board will confirm, Board Chair, Vice-Chair and Committee appointments.

The play was written to commemorate the 1917 disaster that occurred in the Halifax harbour, killing over 1500 people and injuring (and blinding) thousands more.

YourTV’s Jake Forsyth approached AHSS to produce a docu-drama featuring the students of today and their research, and connections to the stories of 100 years ago.����YourTV of North Bay��subsequently��filmed a docu-drama featuring the students and their��teacher Allison Green to be aired November 8th, 2018. Check your local listings for times of airing.

AHSS will hold its’ own screening on November��9th, 2018 at 7 p.m.�� The screen will be��free and open to the public. Students and staff involved in the play and docu-drama will be on hand to share their experience.

For more information, please contact:

Allison Green
Almaguin Highlands Secondary School
Phone: (705)492-9744
Email: allison.green@nearnorthschools.ca

Mr. O’Hagan contacted Ms. Young this summer and requested a meeting to discuss issues and priorities for the 17�Թ���.�� However, as Mr. O’Hagan was and is currently a candidate for Trustee, his request for a meeting was declined. During the election campaign period employees of the Board, including the Director of Education, must remain non-partisan in order to ensure the integrity of the election process and our residents democratic rights.�� Requests for meetings from other candidates and for information that is not readily and/or publicly available have also been declined.

The Director of Education and Board staff are looking forward to working with all elected Trustees to ensure that the Board remains accountable to students, parents and community partners.�� Openness and transparency are at the core of public government and Ms. Young is supportive of all initiatives that uphold these values.

“We have a large number of schools with talented students, excellent teaching staff and leading-edge technology and programming.�� Our focus at the administrative level is, and has always been, ensuring that we provide our students with the education, opportunities, resources and supports they need.�� Any review of our office and our efforts either externally or internally is, and always, has been welcome.”– Jackie Young

Ms. Young was contacted by media sources for comment on Mr. O’Hagan’s media release but unfortunately could not address the timelines offered in time for publication.

For more information, please contact:

Mairghread Knought
Information/Communication Officer
17�Թ���
(705) 472-8170, extension 5010
Mairghread.knought@nearnorthschools.ca

Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope might have ended in 1980 but the spark he lit in the hearts and minds of Canadians ignited into a campaign of hope that has lasted more than three decades. Once again this September hundreds of thousands of Terry Fox supporters will participate in their favourite Canadian fall tradition at one of more than 700 Terry Fox Runs from coast to coast to coast to ensure that cancer research continues to forge ahead.

The students and staff at the 17�Թ��� appreciate your support with this important initiative.

Terry Fox had a single dream: a world without cancer. Come and join us as we work together in pursuit of this dream. For more information on the Terry Fox Run and Foundation, visit

Recognized annually on September 30th

What is Orange Shirt Day?

Orange Shirt Day, which started in 2013, was designed to educate people and promote awareness about the Indian Residential School system and the impact on Indigenous communities. in Canada. We wear orange in affirmation of our commitment to truth and reconciliation.

Indian residential schools operated in Canada between 1831 and 1996 at over 130 sites. The schools were unsafe physically, cognitively, social/emotionally and spiritually. More than 150 000 children were forced to attend the schools. Children suffered ongoing, often severe abuse & neglect and thousands of children died. The schools were a direct cause of loss of language, culture, traditional knowledge and community. The effects continue to echo through our nation.

One Child’s Story

Phyllis was only 6 years old when she was forced to attend residential school in the early 1970’s. The first day at the school was tragic and one she would never forget. Alone and frightened, all her items were taken away, including her best and favourite shiny orange shirt. “The colour orange has always reminded me of that day….how my feelings didn’t matter, how no one cared and how I felt like I was worth nothing. All of us little children were crying and no one cared”.

On September 30th, the same time of year children were taken to Residential schools, we remember and acknowledge this painful legacy. We wear orange to symbolize the journey towards healing, truth and reconciliation, in honour of the children who survived residential schools and those who did not.

Every Child Matters
Moving Towards Reconciliation

Fore more information please visit:

Rowan Stringer loved rugby. A competitive and keen athlete, she was captain of her high school’s team. Tragically, in May 2013, 17-year old Rowan died as the result of head injuries she sustained while playing rugby. In the week before her last game, Rowan was hit twice while playing, likely sustaining a concussion after each blow. Her concussions went unreported, and she continued to play. Rowan suspected something wasn’t right—she texted a friend about her condition and used Google to search for information about concussions. When she was hit again in her final game, Rowan suffered what is known as Second Impact Syndrome—catastrophic swelling caused by a second injury to a brain still healing from previous trauma. Rowan collapsed on the field on May 8, 2013, and died four days later.

What is Rowan’s Law Day?

Rowan’s Law Day was established in 2018, and will be observed across Ontario on the last Wednesday in September each year. The purpose of Rowan’s Law Day is to increase concussion education awareness, especially in schools.

The 17�Թ��� was pleased to honour 4 nominated and deserving students.

“Students Who Make a Difference” Nominations:

Carissa Robinson – Grade 3 @ Sunset Park Public School

Brooklynn Pegg – Grade 5 @ Silver Birches Public School

Liam McNeil – Grade 7 @ West Ferris Intermediate School

Kate Sherry – Grade 12 @ Widdifield Secondary School

The 17�Թ��� is happy to announce to, once again, be a part of the DELF Pilot Project in Ontario.

The DELF is a second language proficiency test that is above and beyond the Grade 12 FSL curriculum. In last year’s project, all participants successfully achieved this world wide recognized accreditation. Please sign up with the link below if you are currently in a grade 12 FSL course and wish to participate in this test of French proficiency. Please speak with your classroom teacher to support your decision.

There is a fee of $50 (cheque made payable to the NNDSB) to cover the cost of the test. Full information was given to interested grade 12 students during a classroom visit and teachers have extra copies.

Our Board graciously appreciates the support and guidance from Kawartha Pine Ridge DSB (DELF Centre) and the Ministry of Education.

• Parent Letter
• DELF Brochure

MEDIA RELEASE

17�Թ��� Receives Approval for Capital Funding Requests

February 1, 2018 – ��The 17�Թ��� is very excited to announce that the Government of Ontario has approved very significant capital funding requests, both of which are a result of student accommodation review processes.

Capital funding has been committed to build a new elementary school on the W.J. Fricker Public School site at 790 Norman Avenue in North Bay to accommodate Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6 students from E.T. Carmichael and E.W. Norman public schools, along with Extended French Grade 5 and 6 students from W.J. Fricker Public School.�� The construction of integrated child care facilities has also been approved with 1 Infant, 1 Toddler, 2 Pre-School rooms as well as the construction of a new EarlyON Child and Family Centre.�� Working in partnership with the District of Nipissing Social Services Administration Board (DSSAB) and third-party licensee, YMCA Northeastern Ontario, children and families can expect a seamless approach to quality childcare and school programs in one facility, which is anticipated to open in September of 2020.

“The District of Nipissing Social Services Administration Board is very pleased to support this project, bringing much needed quality early years and childcare services into the education system,” said DNSSAB chair Mark King. “This is an excellent example of considering what’s effective and convenient for children and families in the Nipissing District.”

W.J. Fricker Public School will close at the end of the 2018-2019 school year.�� In September 2019, Grade 5 and 6 students from W.J. Fricker will be accommodated at E.W. Norman while the new school is being constructed and the Grade 7 and 8 students from W.J. Fricker will attend the Chippewa site.

As previously announced, child care facilities (one Infant room, one Toddler room and one Pre-School room) will be included in the design of the new Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 school at 111 Isabella Street in Parry Sound.�� Working with the Parry Sound District Social Services Administration Board (DSSAB) to further enhance services for families, capital funding has been committed by the Government of Ontario to build a new EarlyON Child and Family Centre at the new school.�� The Board hopes to be able to tender for architectural services this Spring.

“The Board of Trustees are pleased to see another reinvestment of tax dollars supporting our long-term Capital Plan that modernizes local education in the City of North Bay and the Town of Parry Sound,” said school board chair David Thompson.

The Board graciously acknowledges the financial investment the Government of Ontario has committed to these projects.

The 17�Թ��� remains committed to: ensuring that students are accommodated in facilities that are safe and healthy; promoting optimal learning environments; and, offering optimal programming options.

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For further information, please contact:

Carrie Girard, Information Officer

Carrie.Girard@nearnorthschools.ca

(705) 472-8170, extension 5010

��

��

MEDIA RELEASE

2018 Program Transitions Announced in Preparation of��North Bay High School Consolidation��

��January 29, 2018 – The systemic capital planning implications of the September 2019 consolidation of three North Bay secondary schools (Chippewa, West Ferris and Widdifield) into two schools with the rebranding of the West Ferris (South) and Chippewa (North) sites require that some program transitions take place for the upcoming school year.

To relieve current accommodation pressures at Chippewa and in order to prepare instructional space required for the 2019 transition, the following programs will transition in September 2018:

• Current Grade 6 Sunset Park French Immersion students
• Current Grade 6 W.J. Fricker Extended French students
• Current 7-11 Chippewa Extended French students
• Current 7-11 Chippewa French Immersion students (zoned for Sunset Park).

Future opportunities will be provided for parents who were unable to attend the information session tonight.

As previously announced, the following programs will be fully implemented in September of 2019:

*Widdifield Secondary School will close in September 2019.

The 17�Թ��� values comprehensive and supportive communication to our valued students and families.�� As such, parents of students who are imminently affected were invited to attend an information session at West Ferris tonight to hear first-hand from board and school staff about the 2018 transition, to learn more about ongoing transition planning and to ask related questions.

The Board is highly committed to ensuring that transitions and school environments are supportive of optimal learning conditions for all students.

– 30 –

For more information, please contact:

Carrie Girard, Information Officer

705-472-8170, extension 5010

Carrie.Girard@nearnorthschools.ca��

MEDIA RELEASE

North Bay High School Consolidation Programming Framework Announced

��

January 19, 2018 – ��On September 26, 2017, Trustees approved the consolidation of three North Bay secondary schools (Chippewa, West Ferris and Widdifield) into two schools with the renaming and rebranding of the West Ferris (South) and Chippewa (North) sites.�� Since that time staff in all three schools have collaborated to discuss how best to use this opportunity to enhance student program options.

There is much transition planning ahead which will take some time to complete.�� The planning of transition activities will involve student, parent and staff voice.

In the interim, the Board is pleased to share its transition programming framework.

The following programs will be fully implemented in September of 2019:

*Widdifield Secondary School will close in September 2019.

Parents of students who attend the Board’s Extended French program and the Sunset Park French Immersion program will receive an invitation to attend an information meeting in the coming weeks (Chippewa, Sunset Park and W.J. Fricker).

The Board remains committed to providing parents, students, staff and communities with relevant and timely communication.�� The Board thanks its stakeholders in advance for their patience to allow for the time required to develop a thoughtful and purposeful transition plan.

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��

For more information, please contact:

Carrie Girard, Information Officer,

Carrie.Girard@nearnorthschools.ca

705-472-8170, extension 5010

Children will remain supervised in the school until parents or caregivers can arrive. Buses will run as usual at the end of the day.

The 17�Թ��� would like to thank everyone who is working diligently to repair services.

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For more information, please contact:
Carrie Girard, Information Officer
E. Carrie.Girard@nearnorthschools.ca
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010

Local Indigenous artists will come together to share cultural practices such as story, dance, drumming and song to foster culturally responsive communities.

Members of the media are invited for photo and interview opportunities. The school is located at 1325 Cedargrove Drive in North Bay.

The public is welcomed to attend and invited to bring donations for our local food banks.

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For further information, please contact George Couchie at couchie.george@gmail.com.