Dear Parents and Caregivers,
Welcome to the 2022-2023 school year! We are looking forward to welcoming students back to schools and classrooms on Wednesday, September 7.
We are starting on a brighter note than we have in the past few years and we are feeling optimistic for the year ahead. We have learned so much in the past two years that will continue to guide us as we move forward.
There are a lot of emotions that come with starting a new school year and we are here to support as needed. We will create safe, joyful and engaging classrooms and schools that meet students’ needs and allow them to thrive. And, we will work to build respectful, positive relationships that fuel their development both inside and outside of the classroom. This work is underscored by our commitment to Truth and Reconciliation and eliminating hate and racism.
This year, we continue to prioritize student success and growth and ensuring all students have the tools and resources they need. To help strengthen literacy and math skills, the Ministry of Education is funding tutoring programs and more information will be shared with you in the coming weeks on what opportunities may be available in your community. Additionally, students in Grades 4 to 11 can get free math tutoring using Mathify, which is provided by certified teachers. You can also access a number of TDSB math resources, The TDSB Early Reading Instruction Family Caregiver Guide as well as the Virtual Library which offers resources on a variety of subject areas.
We remain committed to the health and safety of our staff and students and we continue to follow the guidance from the Ministry of Education and Toronto Public Health to help keep our school communities safe. We will continue to focus on indoor air quality, cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, encouraging hand and respiratory etiquette, daily screening and encouraging students and staff to stay home when sick. Schools will continue to be mask-friendly environments inclusive of all staff and students and the TDSB will continue to provide medical masks to students who want to wear one. As with all illnesses, Principals will continue to monitor their school and will share any concerns with Toronto Public Health, who can advise on next steps, if any. Learn more on our health and safety website.
We are excited to welcome students and families back to school next week. Wishing you a wonderful long weekend and we will see you back in class next Wednesday!
Alexander Brown Colleen Russell-Rawlins
Chair of the Board Director of Education