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Community Engagement

Community Engagement

The Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement recognizes that the process of dismantling anti-Black racism and improving outcomes for Black students requires the ongoing collaboration and support of families, communities and partner organizations. The Centre of Excellence aims to be responsive to the voices of Black communities who continue to advocate for systemic change within educational institutions through strategic community engagement initiatives and educational partnerships.

Community Consultations

Community consultations and focus groups are conducted to provide families an opportunity to engage with the Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement and staff of the TDSB. Families are able to share their experiences engaging with their school community and discuss how the Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement can support their needs.

Breaking Down Barriers to Mental Health in Black Communities with Trey Anthony

Honouring the theme for this year, ‘Growth and Reflection,’ in this session, award-winning playwright, actor, and wellness expert Trey Anthony delves into important topics such as the stigma surrounding mental health in Black communities. Drawing from her own personal journey, Trey will shed light on her experience with functional depression and mental health. She will also discuss the importance of seeking help and removing the shame and stigma often associated with mental health struggles.

TDSB Human Library Podcast

The TDSB Human Library Podcast: Conversations around Black Student Success and Excellence is a series of 15-minute audio episodes hosted by Shayle Graham.

The podcast introduces listeners to leading scholars, emerging thinkers, and fellow educators passionate about creating learning spaces dedicated to Black student success, well-being and positive racial identity. Each episode will highlight strategies that support meaningful engagement and advocacy of caregivers and communities and offers up guidance on how to navigate the education system.

Listen to season two of the TDSB Human Library Podcast: Conversations around Black Student Success and Excellence now!

Events

A variety of events supporting community involvement are held throughout the year. View our launch event and our virtual grand opening for the Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement.

Black Student Achievement Community Advisory Committee (BSACAC)

Established in 2016, BSACAC’s mandate is to examine and make recommendations on strategies to create more equitable outcomes, raise achievement levels and create safe spaces for Black students.

The BSACAC supports the Board’s ongoing commitment to work in partnership with its parents/guardians, communities and students to improve educational outcomes for Black students.

Dr. Carl James Parent Engagement Sessions

Dr. Carl James, York University’s Jean Augustine Chair, has been engaging in parent engagement workshops across the BSSE schools. Dr. James’ sessions have reached families and caregivers across all four Learning Centres within the TDSB.

Connect with Us!

The Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement focuses on improving the academic outcomes and experiences of belonging for Black students. The Centre of Excellence strives to support meaningful engagement and advocacy of caregivers and communities, improve communication about Black student success and provide guidance with system navigation.

Location: 2239 Lawrence Ave E, Scarborough, ON, M1P 2P7

Office phone number: (416) 396-2351

Email: cebsa@tdsb.on.ca