The 2012-2013 school year is here!
This year, we’re launching nine new Elementary Academies, giving even more educators a chance to put their innovative and creative methods into practice. In addition, our work to address the Opportunity Gap will broaden as we continue to develop innovative and creative programming for our students who struggle due to circumstances such as poverty and other external challenges. We are looking at every option open to us to build programs that engage all students by giving them a sense of pride in themselves and hope for the future.
And so, with staff excited to begin the new year, attention turns to schools and the first day of classes.
Tips for the new year
Getting ready for a new school year can be a whirlwind of frenzied activity. Below is some information to help you and your child have a stress-free start to the school year.
Starting School for the Very First Time
It’s a big step in your child's life, filled with many firsts. Click here to get an overview of the TDSB’s Kindergarten program and to read about activities you can be doing at home to help prepare your child for school. There's also an overview of the new Early Learning/Full-day kindergarten program.
Who’ll Mind the Kids?
We have more than 300 child-care centres in TDSB schools serving infants, toddlers, pre-schoolers, kindergarten and school-age children, before and after school.
Homework Tips
Help improve your child’s academic performance by getting involved daily in homework assignments. We have useful tips for developing good study habits, a suggested guide to the amount of time your child should spend on homework and some on-line lessons that you and your child can do together.
Engaging in the School Community
One of the most important factors in the success of a child's education is parent involvement. Education is a shared responsibility among schools, parents, the community, students, staff and the Board. Find out how to get involved in your school community today.
Getting to School
It’s always a good idea to get familiar with the school route before the first day. In certain circumstances, your child may be eligible for transportation to and from school. Find out more about TDSB student transportation and school bus safety tips.
Walking to school is also a great idea! In addition to the benefit for the environment, walking is a great daily physical activity for both parents and children. Neighbours get to know each other, and community safety is improved by reducing traffic in school zones. With a familiar route and time, participating students never have to walk to school alone. Some TDSB schools employ "walking school bus" programs. To learn more, visit Active & Safe Routes to School.
Student Safety
One of the TDSB’s goals is to provide a safe and caring learning environment for all our students. Click here for information on programs and services that promote safety and a healthy learning environment in our schools. The TDSB’s Caring and Safe Schools Weeks takes place from September 10 to 21, 2012, and brings important issues about school safety into focus for staff, students, and parents.
New Teachers
The TDSB welcomes hundreds of new teachers every year. They bring an enthusiasm for learning and a genuine commitment to meeting the diverse needs of their students. Read about the many ways the TDSB supports its beginning teachers.
Class Sizes
The Ministry of Education has mandated that most classes from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 3 have 20 or fewer students. Only ten percent of these classes will be permitted to exceed the cap of 20 students and those exceptions will have a maximum of 23 students. Click here for answers to some commonly asked questions about capping primary class sizes at the TDSB.
Who to Speak to for More Help
It can be frustrating to have a question or concern relating to the school system and be unsure who to contact for an answer. Click here for a list of some of the most common issues people ask about, and who to contact about those issues. If you are ever unsure about where you should direct your question or concern, please call our switchboard at 416-397-3000 and ask for help. Much information is also available on this website, including school attendance areas and school profiles and EQAO results, program information, and services available.
Frequently Called Numbers
Need to contact childcare or nutrition services, or find out about Adult ESL classes or TDSB’s parenting programs? Here's a useful list of phone numbers that you can print out and keep handy.
School Calendar
Click here for the important dates to remember this school year. You may also want to print it out and keep it handy. Just remember: start and end times school timetables differ by school. Make sure to check your school's website or call the school office to find out when the day begins and ends. Search for your school information here.