Secondary

Semester 2

Following consultations with Toronto Public Health (TPH) and after receiving feedback from students, families and educators, it has been determined that all secondary schools will return to a regular timetable of a four-period day effective the first day of Semester 2 on February 3, 2022.

In Semester 2, the school day will continue to begin at the current time of 9 a.m. and will end at 2:55 p.m. Based on guidance from TPH, the current length of the lunch period will remain the same (45 minutes), however it will be reviewed as we enter warmer weather in Semester 2 and as COVID-19 circumstances change.

Secondary Virtual Learning: Students learning virtually in Semester 2 are expected to have their cameras on during class time. Zoom Backgrounds are available for students for privacy. By having cameras on, student engagement is enhanced and we will build human connection with one another which supports learning and a strong sense of community. Students can speak with their guidance counsellor, Vice-Principal or Principal about any concerns. Students who are learning virtually, and require a device with a camera and/or mic can make arrangements by speaking with their school vice-principal or principal.  

Practices and Protocols 

Below are the TDSB-specific guidelines, practices and protocols for a number of areas:

Masks: As of March 21, masks will be strongly encouraged in TDSB schools, though not required, except in the following circumstances: 

• For days 6-10 after a self-isolation period of five days after a COVD-19 diagnosis. Learn more.
• If you are identified as a close contact of someone with COVID-19. Learn more.
• In public spaces, including schools and childcares, for the first 14 days following travel outside of Canada. Learn more.

TDSB schools will continue to be mask-friendly environments. Masks will still be available to both staff and students upon request. Classroom environments will be inclusive of all students.  

Daily Screening: Toronto Public Health has updated its screening for children/students/adults to align with the new direction from the Chief Medical Officer of Health with respect to isolation guidelines and masking requirements following a COVID-19 diagnosis or identification of being a close contact. Please do a daily self-assessment with this screening tool before coming to school and follow the isolation guidelines and other requirements, such as masking, as necessary. On-site verification is no longer required.

Lunch: As cohorting is no longer required, schools now have the flexibility to maintain aspects of current practice or change lunch procedures based on local needs.

Recess: As cohorting is no longer required, schools now have the flexibility to maintain aspects of current practice or change recess procedures based on local needs.

Assemblies: Limitations on in-person gatherings and assemblies are now removed; therefore, schools can plan and host in-person events (e.g., proms, graduation ceremonies, and assemblies).

Extra-curricular Activities: As cohorting is no longer required, schools can now implement a full slate of extra-curricular activities as resources allow (i.e. staff, volunteers). There is no limit on the number of activities students may participate in.

Nutrition Programs and Food Services: TDSB snack and lunch programs (funded through the Toronto Foundation for Student Success) and external events (such as pizza lunch) and use of approved “hot lunch” providers are permitted. 

School Councils: In consultation with the principal, School Councils may continue virtual or resume in-person meetings.

Specialized Programs (French Immersion, IB, TOPS, Arts, AP, etc.)

In-Person Learning: Students will be welcomed back into Specialized Programs with the intent of supporting continued progress in their chosen program this school year.

Virtual Learning: If a school has sufficient requests to create viable Virtual Learning classrooms (FI, IB, AP, Alternative, Arts, etc.), they will be able to create a Virtual Class with a dedicated teacher.

Simultaneous: If Virtual Learning classes are not possible, Simultaneous Learning allows students to continue in their program of choice with peers.

Special Education

We are committed to inclusion and ensuring students are supported in regular classrooms with appropriate special education services at their home school. We also recognize that some students with unique strengths and areas for growth may require more specialized or intensive support programs.   

In-Person Learning:  Students receiving special education program and/or services in regular classes or students in an Intensive Support Program (ISP) will continue to be supported by classroom teachers, special education teachers, support staff, and itinerant special education staff.

Virtual Learning:  Students in Regular class who require Resource support (e.g., Indirect Support, Resource Assistance, Withdrawal Assistance) and are learning virtually, will access the Resource teacher attached to the school of the virtual teacher. Secondary ISPs (including Gifted) will proceed with simultaneous learning for students who have selected virtual learning and remain connected to their homeschool.