TDSB & Me is a new staff storytelling series that celebrates the people who help our schools and workplaces thrive. Each profile recognizes the everyday leadership, creativity, and care that shapes our system and supports student success.
Sonia French
Receptionist at Head Office
Communications and Public Affairs
When you walk into the Toronto District School Board’s Head Office, the first person you are likely to meet is someone who makes the space feel calm, warm, and welcoming. For many visitors, this person is Sonia French. She has shaped this work with compassion and confidence for more than 15 years. “Everyone can use a smile, a little encouragement and a little help,” she said. This idea guides her every day.
Sonia’s path to the Board began after she raised two children and returned to university. She spent time working outside of education, then joined the Board in 2008 as an Employment Advisor supporting community members in Orangeville and Shelburne. Her first day stands out for the learning curve and for colleagues who stepped in with support. It also brought an early opportunity to make a meaningful impact as she helped people facing job loss navigate new training programs and new beginnings.
The front desk is a busy hub that responds to in-person inquiries, two phone lines, email requests from families and staff, messages from Toronto Police Services and media partners, and daily operational needs such as room bookings and building access.
Visitors arrive with a wide range of emotions. Some feel hopeful. Others feel anxious or overwhelmed. Sonia meets each person with empathy and a desire to help them move toward the best available resolution. She sees her role as a chance to shape their entire experience. When someone reaches out later to express gratitude, Sonia considers it one of the most rewarding parts of her work.
Sonia also recently participated in the Board’s 4 over 5 plan, a program that allows staff to take a dedicated year for personal priorities after four years of service. For Sonia, the year away offered rest, renewal, and meaningful time with family.
For anyone new to the TDSB, Sonia shares simple and thoughtful guidance: “Learn what you can. Be flexible. Consider your work to be an opportunity to serve and serve well.”
