Tune In YRDSB is the first podcast of its kind in Ontario. Featuring a wide range of topics related to education, Tune In YRDSB is your go-to resource for news about the York Region District School Board.
Tune In YRDSB is available on all major podcast platforms.
SHINE is a YRDSB podcast that features voices from the Black community. Guests share their lived experiences, advice, industry expertise and more.
Heritage Month Episodes
Listen to conversations with staff, students and family about identity, belonging and advocacy.
- Unity in Diversity: Celebrating Gender and Sexuality Alliances (Pride Month, June)
- Indigenous Education in Action (Indigenous Peoples' Month, June)
- South Asian Heritage Month, May
- Jewish Heritage Month, May
- Exploring East Asian Diversity, May
- Sikh Heritage Month, April
- Black Excellence (Black History Month, February)
- Tamil Heritage Month, January
- Hindu Heritage Month, November
- Latinx & Hispanic Heritage Month, October
- Women's History Month, October
- Islamic Heritage Month, October
Supporting Black Student Mental Health
Previous Episodes
Supporting Black Student Mental Health
In this episode, school social workers delve into the critical topic of supporting Black student mental health. They explore the importance of cultural heritage, historical contexts and the importance of an education system that actively dismantles oppressive practices and promotes inclusivity.
Unity in Diversity: Celebrating Gender and Sexuality Alliances (Pride Month, June)
In this episode in honour of Pride Month, students and staff speak about the important role Gender and Sexuality Alliances (GSAs) play in school settings. They share their experiences and how GSAs help to foster inclusive and supportive environments for 2SLGBTQIA+ students. Tune In to hear stories of celebration, acceptance and community.
Experience Business, Innovation and Entrepreneurship
In this episode of the Tune In YRDSB podcast, learn more about how secondary school students can explore the world of business, innovation and entrepreneurship. Hear more about courses and programs available to students that help foster a spirit of innovation and entrepreneurial thinking.
Indigenous Education in Action - Making Moccasins
Listen to this special episode of the Tune In YRDSB podcast as we invite you into circle to join self-identified Indigenous students as they make moccasins and share in learning and conversation with Knowledge Keeper Angela Duckworth and members of the school board's First Nation, Métis and Inuit Education team. Learn more about the significance of moccasins, what it means to these graduating students to make a pair of moccasins to travel into the next phase of their lives.
South Asian Heritage Month
School board staff and students share their insights into what it means to be South Asian, highlighting the diversities and commonalities within this rich cultural identity.
Experience Hospitality
Learn more about how courses and programs in hospitality are helping students gain transferable skills and valuable learning and experience. Hear directly from students taking the courses and their teacher.
Jewish Heritage Month
Join us on this episode in honour of Jewish Heritage Month. Staff members from different roles talk about the importance of pride in identity, how people identify as being Jewish and so much more.
Social Anxiety and Supporting Healthy Relationships
In recognition of Children's Mental Health Awareness Week, the latest episode of Tune In YRDSB features a group of students speaking on a topic they chose - social anxiety, healthy relationships and friendships.
Exploring East Asian Diversity
To recognize Asian Heritage Month, this podcast episode explores East Asian diversity with a focus on unlocking empowerment and success in education.
Sikh Heritage Month
In recognition of Sikh Heritage Month, members of the Sikh Educators Voice Alliance (SEVA) speak about the concept of Seva, identity, advocacy and belonging.
Experience Media Arts and Digital Design
Learn more about how schools give students the opportunity to explore media arts and digital design. Hear from educators, students and a former YRDSB grad who now works in the industry. They speak about the world of digital design, a Thornlea S.S. recent field trip to Lighthouse Immersive and how students benefit from learning in, about and through the arts.
International Women's Day
In recognition of International Women's Day, this podcast episode spotlights the voices and experiences of women in different roles within the education sector.
Tamil Heritage Month
In this episode of the Tune In YRDSB podcast recorded during Tamil Heritage Month, hear from Tamil staff members and students as they share their experiences.
Play, Learn, Thrive. Welcome to Kindergarten
In this episode of the Tune In YRDSB podcast, hear from Kindergarten educators about what to expect in Kindergarten and how to help prepare your child. They discuss the importance of relationships, what play-based learning looks like and answer many of the questions families frequently ask.
Inside the Role: Student Trustee Experiences
In the latest episode of the Tune In YRDSB podcast, hear from current student trustees as they share firsthand insights into the role. Learn more about what they love about the role, what motivates them and what surprised them. Get a glimpse into the responsibilities and effects they have as student trustees.
Hindu Heritage Month
In this episode, we are looking back on Hindu Heritage Month and exploring the rich cultural and spiritual traditions of Hinduism.
Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month
In recognition of Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month, two YRDSB vice-principals share their personal experiences within the educational system, and speak about how we can all help to create more identity-affirming spaces for Latinx students, staff and families.
Elevating Women's Stories: Celebrating Women's History Month
In honour of Women's History Month, this latest podcast episode features a conversation with six female leaders and changemakers in YRDSB. The conversation highlights the crucial role of preserving and elevating the stories of women, including those from diverse backgrounds. The guests share their personal stories and journeys in education, emphasizing the importance of representation, community, identity, allyship and how they see their role in inspiring the next generation to reach their full potential.
Islamic Heritage Month
As we recognize Islamic Heritage Month, the latest episode of Tune In YRDSB explores the importance of creating identity-affirming spaces in schools and workplaces. Hear more about the experiences of Muslim students, staff and families in York Region District School Board.
Indigenous Education - Students' Perspective
Hear Indigenous student trustees share their experiences and perspectives on Indigenous education in York Region
Transitioning to Secondary School
Starting secondary school this fall? Looking for advice on what to expect and how to make the most of your high school years? Hear from two secondary school students as they share their advice and experiences.
Supporting 2SLGBTQI+ Students: Part Three
In part three of this podcast series, two parents share their firsthand experiences and advice about their journey supporting 2SLGBTQI+ children.
Next Steps in Indigenous Education
Hear from members of the Indigenous Education Team as they discuss the current state of Indigenous education and what work still needs to be done to provide opportunities for Indigenous students to connect with their culture, and to increase accurate understandings of First Nations, Métis and Inuit cultures, histories and contemporary perspectives.
Supporting 2SLGBTQI+ Students: Part Two
In part two of our Tune In YRDSB podcast series on supporting 2SLGBTQI+ students, we take a deeper dive into talking about some of the supports and resources available in schools and the community for students and families. Don't miss Part One that shares knowledge and dispels myths about diversity in identity and considerations in supporting 2SLGBTQI+ students.
Standing in the Doorway: Lived Histories and Experiences of the Chinese Community
Learn more about the upcoming exhibit, Standing in the Doorway: Lived Histories and Experiences of the Chinese Community in the latest Tune In YRDSB podcast episode. The exhibit is a collection of personal stories and artifacts that shed light on the experiences of Chinese immigrants in Canada during the early 1900s, and commemorates the 100th anniversary of the Chinese Exclusion Act.
South Asian Heritage Month
In this episode of the podcast, members from the Educators for Students of South Asian Heritage (ESSAH) speak about the importance of celebrating South Asian Heritage Month in May, identity, lived experiences and the need for identity-affirming spaces.
Supporting 2SLGBTQI+ Students
Community Care Team School Social Workers provide some basic knowledge for listeners about diversity in identity. They dispel myths, and share considerations in supporting 2SLGBTQI+ students.
Digital Literacy
Hear from members of the Digital Literacy Team as they discuss digital tools, the digital environment, how learning environment has changed over the past few years, the shifts in education and so much more.
Adult Learning
Adult learning students and educators discuss the various adult programs offered through the YRDSB, the benefits it provides to students, some commonly asked questions, where to go for more information, and much more.
Tamil Heritage Month
Staff, students and family members speak about Tamil Heritage Month, Tamil identity and how we can create learning and working spaces that affirm Tamil identity.
Introduction to Special Education
Learn more about Special Education, how students are identified, the IPRC process, what is an IEP, what supports are in place for students and families, where to go with questions and so much more
Yad Vashem
Join educators and representatives from Yad Vashem as they talk about the importance of Holocaust education and addressing antisemitism, and more.
Municipal Election
Learn more about the role of trustees and why it's important to vote. Hear from YRDSB Vice-Chair of the Board and President of Ontario Public School Boards Association.
South East Asian Youth Speaks Program
Join students and staff from the South East Asian Youth Speaks program as they talk about identity, culture, narratives, dismantling barriers and much more!
Hackathon
On this episode of Tune In YRDSB, Principal Debbie Linkewich is joined by four secondary students Benny, Claire, Jennifer and Trinity, as they reflect back on this year's Hackathon. They discuss what is a hackathon, what students learned, the design thinking process, student projects, the benefits for students' future, and so much more!
Active Routes to School
On this episode of Tune In YRDSB, YRDSB and YCDSB Active Travel Coordinator Reena Mistry is joined by Castlemore P.S. Principal Leeanne Hoover-Joy, Curriculum Consultant Marlee Corcoran and City of Markham Traffic and Transportation Planning Manager Loy Cheah to discuss active routes to school.
Secondary Athletics:
On today's episode of Tune In YRDSB, York Region Athletics Association (YRAA) Coordinator of Athletics Mark Arsenault is joined by YRAA President Jeff Masterson, Bill Hogarth Secondary School Coach/Department Head Sarah Succee and Student Athletes Spencer Dillon (Bill Hogarth Secondary School) and Amy Pletsas (King City Secondary School) to discuss athletics at the secondary school level.
GSA Month:
On today's episode of Tune In YRDSB, we are going to be taking at a look at GSAs (Genders & Sexualities Alliances or Gay Straight Alliance) throughout the YRDSB in Secondary and Elementary Schools. Joined by Missy Mae-Ng - School Social Worker, Hayden Bendavid - Equity Teacher Facilitator & Co-Chair, Elementary GSA Network, Brooke Ginsler - ESL (English as a Second Language) Teacher, Donna Franklin - Child & Youth Worker and Cove - YRDSB Secondary School Student.
On this episode, our guests will be talking about, the history of GSAs, GSAs in York Region, the different types of GSAs, what GSA meetings look like, and so much more!
Nur Muslim Mentorship Program
On today's episode of Tune In YRDSB, we are going to be taking at a look at the Nur Muslim Mentorship Program, brought to you by our guests Wahid Khan - South Asian Teacher Liason, Fahima Raufi - Teacher, Zahra Kaba - Equity Teacher Facilitator, Amira - Grade 10 Student, Alesha - Grade 10 Student and Rhyanne - Grade 10 Student.
Our guests will be talking about, what inspired the need for a Muslim Mentorship Program within YRDSB How this program will inspire, challenge and help growth of young Muslim students within the board. What non-Muslim educators, students, administrators need to know about why having NMMP is important at YRDSB The goals and plans to grow the program and expand over the next few years and much more!
French Immersion Program
On today's episode of Tune In YRDSB, we are going to be diving deeper into our French Immersion Program, brought to you by our guests Arin Otis - Principal, Deborah Joyce - Principal, Alexandra Papadakis - French Immersion Teacher, Birhavi Somasundaram - Student Teacher, Brandon Wilson - Student Teacher, Kaiden - Grade 3 Student, Mia - Grade 3 Student.
Our guests will be talking about what students like about French Immersion, what the program looks like, how to register, common questions families have and much more!
Pathways Programs
This week we are talking about some of the many exciting Ontario Youth Apprenticeship opportunities available to our secondary students. There are over 150 skilled trades for our students so that they can explore their interests and pathway options.
Joined by Mirella Sanwalka, Principal Curriculum and Instruction Services, Reshma Badiani, Curriculum Coordinator and Linda Alati, Curriculum Consultant on the Pathways team. In addition we are joined by a former student from Stouffville DHS, Thomas Kroupis, and a current YRDSB OYAP student, Anna Maria Manousaridis from Markham District HS as they talk about their experience in the program.
2021/22 School Year - Health and Safety Measures - Part One
On today's episode of Tune In YRDSB, we are joined by Heather Schreider - Elementary Principal of Operations, Education and Community Services, Dawn Adams - Senior Manager, Property Development and Planning Services, and Dr. Barry Pakes - Public Health Physician, York Region Public Health as they focus on the topic of the health and safety measures that will be implemented in schools for the 2021-22 school year, and discuss topics on preparing schools, screening & PPE, facility upgrades, vaccinations and so much more.
2021/22 School Year – School Reopening - Part Two
In our second episode for the 2021/21 School Year, we are joined by, Louise Sirisko - Director of Education, YRDSB, Clayton LaTouche - Associate Director of Education, YRDSB, Dr. Steven Reid - Associate Director of Education, YRDSB, Jannice So - Infection Prevention and Control Specialist, York Region Public Health and Amber Clements - Resource Manager, York Region Public Health, as they share the topics of conversation had during our latest Town Hall, which included questions families had about school reopening this year, and included learning models, vaccinations, mental health resources, supports for families, and so much more.
Welcome to Kindergarten - Parts One and Two
In this two-part episode, YRDSB parent Camille Robertson sits down with a team of Kindergarten educators from Johnny Lombardi PS to ask all the pressing questions she has about her child’s first year at school.
Featuring:
- Lara Chebaro, Principal, Curriculum and Instructional Services, Early Years Lead
- Rita Angellotti, Principal, Johnny Lombardi PS
- Falguni Karia, Designated Early Childhood Educator, Johnny Lombardi PS
- Hannah Wolfstadt, Kindergarten Teacher, Johnny Lombardi PS
- Camille Robertson, Parent
Indigenous Education in YRDSB
When we talk about Indigenous education, what are talking about? Is it Indigenous content, is it the way we teach, is it who’s doing the teaching?” In the latest episode of TuneIn YRDSB, hear Indigenous staff members in Inclusive Schools and Community Services discuss this question and more. Listen to this important conversation on Indigenous education in YRDSB – what it is, what it isn’t and where we are as a school board. Learn more about land acknowledgements, residential schools, colonial narratives, embedding Indigenous education in classrooms and more.
Featuring: Andrew McConnell - First Nations, Métis and Inuit Education Coordinator, Bradley Gibson - Indigenous Student Advisor, Carolyn Marchand - First Nation, Métis and Inuit Education Consultant, Jean Marc Raymond - First Nation, Métis and Inuit Education Consultant, Michelle Zante - Equity Teacher Facilitator, Natasha Bascevan - First Nation, Métis and Inuit Education Consultant and Victoria Raymer - Indigenous Student Advisor.
As Long as the Rivers Flow: Treaty Talks - Part 3
On this episode of Tune In YRDSB, Indigenous Education Consultant Natasha Bascevan is joined by Amy Brant and Joe Brown from Mohawk Nation at Kenhté:ke as they discuss treaty connections.
Black Student Voice
Welcome back to Tune IN YRDSB. In today's episode we are joined by York Region District School Board students, Sydney Baxter, Jaylah Hall, Cameron Davis alongside Coordinating Superintendent of Education - Indigenous Education and Equity, Cecil Roach.
The Role of Student Trustees
In today's episode we are joined by Administrative Advisor, Sofia Papadatos, and Student Trustees, Christine Lin, Felix Nomerovsky and Indigenous Student Trustee Ashton Wood. Our Trustees will be covering topics such as the role of Student Trustee, what it's been like navigating the school year through the pandemic, the importance of voting, and so much more!
Alliance of Educators for Muslim Students & Network of Educators Supporting Jewish Learners: Advocacy, Solidarity and Allyship
Please join us in this extremely powerful conversation from our 2 Affinity Groups AEMS (Alliance of Educators for Muslim Students) and NESJL (Network of Educators Supporting Jewish Learners) as they discuss the topics of Advocacy, Solidarity and Allyship within our board.
Featuring: Rizwana Kaderdina, Fatima Jessa, Feras Suleiman, Rabbi Corey Margolese, and Zachary Teitel.
As Long As the Rivers Flow: Focusing on Connections to Treaties - Part 2
On this episode of Tune In YRDSB, Indigenous Education Consultant Natasha Bascevan is joined by Social Worker and Author Cyndy Baskin as they discuss the connections to treaties.
As Long As the Rivers Flow: Connection to Identity Part 1
On this episode of Tune In YRDSB, we are honoured to have Education Consultant and Author Suzanne Methot on the podcast with Indigenous Education Consultant Natasha Bascevan. They’ll be kicking off an ongoing series called, As Long As the Rivers Flow - Treaty Talks.
Learning and Caring Part 2
On this episode of Tune In YRDSB, Superintendent of Education - Assessment and Research Services Shawn Bredin discusses your questions about the YRDSB Learning and Caring Plan with Coordinating Superintendent of Education - Indigenous Education and Equity Cecil Roach, Mental Health Lead Patricia Marra-Stapleton, Continuing Education Supervisor Michelle Tarto and Inclusive School and Community Services Principal Donna Ford.
Pride Month in YRDSB Part 2
In this episode, Teacher-Librarian Darren Pamayah speaks with Kettle Lakes P.S. Teacher Natalie Zuchlinski, Community Partnership Developer Missy Sturtevant Mae-Ng, Social Worker Andy Gayoso-Descalzi and Student Gwynneth Kobold about Pride initiatives and student voice at YRDSB.
Pride Month in YRDSB
On this episode on Tune In YRDSB, Teacher-Librarian Darren Pamayah speaks with Superintendent of Education Rita Russo, Community & Partnership Developer Missy Sturtevant Mae-Ng, Special Education Student Services Principal Paul Woods and Silver Steam Public School Principal Patricia Yeates about Pride Month in YRDSB.
Learning and Caring During COVID-19
On this episode on Tune In YRDSB, Associate Director of Education Dr. Steven Reid, Coordinating Superintendent of Education - Student Services and Well Being Kate Diakiw and Superintendent of Education - Curriculum and Instructional Services Heather Sears discuss YRDSB's Learning and Caring Plan and answer some common questions about it.
Beyond Black History Month - Featuring Louise Sirisko
On this episode of Tune In YRDSB, Superintendent of Education - Indigenous Education and Equity Cecil Roach talks to Director of Education Louise Sirisko about her equity goals and her thoughts on York Region District School Board’s 2020 Black History Month celebration.
Affirming Black Identities - Featuring Dr. Camille Logan and Donna Ford
On this episode of Tune In YRDSB, Superintendent of Education Camille Logan and Principal of Inclusive School and Community Services Donna Ford guest host and discuss why it is important to affirm Black identities and teach people the entirety of Black history, not just what happened during and after colonialism.
In Pursuit of Excellence - Featuring Warren Salmon and Ransford Brempong
On this episode of Tune In YRDSB, Coordinating Superintendent of Education - Indigenous Education and Equity Cecil Roach interviews Black Board International and First Fridays President and CEO Warren Salmon about his equity work and what it means to demonstrate Black excellence. Later, Cecil speaks with two-time Dutch Basketball League All-Star Ransford Brempong about perseverance and how Brempong was able to build on his parents’ Canadian dream as a first generation Ghanaian-Canadian.
Telling Your Truth - Featuring Anita Asante
On this episode of Tune In YRDSB, Associate Director of Education Clayton La Touche and Coordinating Superintendent of Education - Indigenous Education and Equity Cecil Roach speak with Buttonville Public School French Teacher Anita Asante about her work as a spoken word artist, teaching French, and how to tell your truth as a Black Canadian.
Pilot Episode
On this episode of Tune In YRDSB, Associate Director of Education Clayton La Touche and Coordinating Superintendent of Education - Indigenous Education and Equity Cecil Roach speak about the importance of Black History Month and why it is important to celebrate Black excellence.
Experience Business, Innovation and Entrepreneurship
In this episode of the Tune In YRDSB podcast, learn more about how secondary school students can explore the world of business, innovation and entrepreneurship. Hear more about courses and programs available to students that help foster a spirit of innovation and entrepreneurial thinking.
Experience Hospitality
Learn more about how courses and programs in hospitality are helping students gain transferable skills and valuable learning and experience. Hear directly from students taking the courses and their teacher.
Experience Media Arts and Digital Design
Learn more about how schools give students the opportunity to explore media arts and digital design. Hear from educators, students and a former YRDSB grad who now works in the industry. They speak about the world of digital design, a Thornlea S.S. recent field trip to Lighthouse Immersive and how students benefit from learning in, about and through the arts.
Welcome to Experience YRDSB
Welcome to a new sub-series of Tune In YRDSB. In this episode, we are introducing Experience YRDSB and delving into the courses and programs that let students explore their interests, and gain skills, experience, credits and certifications.
Welcome to Tune In YRDSB's new sub-series SHINE. In this series, we will celebrate Black excellence in its many forms.
SHINE - Heather Greenwood Davis
A world traveller and storyteller, Heather Greenwood Davis is the first and only Black woman to have a travel column in both Canadian national newspapers. We spoke with her about her inspiring travels with her family, parenting, education and more.
SHINE - Cecil Roach and Darcie Sutherland
In this episode of Shine, host Mawuli Chai welcomes Cecil Roach, Associate Director, Equitable Outcomes and Schools; and Darcie Sutherland, Principal, Dismantling Anti-Black Racism Strategy to talk about the work of dismantling anti-Black racism. They speak about the need for the Dismantling Anti-Black Racism Strategy, what motivates them in the work, the role of the Centre for Black Student Excellence, and much more.
SHINE: Dr. Olubimpe Ayeni
Meet Dr. Olubimpe Ayeni, one of five doctors in her family of seven, and Head of Plastic Surgery at Southlake Hospital. In this conversation on SHINE, Dr. Ayeni speaks about family, medicine, what the pandemic has taught her, Black excellence and more!
SHINE - Jayden Hamilton (Li'l J Hollywood)
This episode features Musician Jayden Hamilton (Li'l J Hollywood) and is hosted by Mawuli Chai.
SHINE - Jillian Danford (Auntie Jillian)
This episode features YouTube, Television and Social Media Personality, Jillian Danford, also known as Auntie Jillian. Please see episode advisory on Anchor prior to listening.
SHINE - Saeed Renaud
This episode features Actor and Vocalist Saeed Renaud.
Each month, we will give you a quick update on what’s been happening around the board, and what we have to look forward to in the coming weeks!