A newsletter to support those in York Region who work with students with exceptional learning strengths & needs.
Content of this Newsletter
- Learning Disabilities Awareness Month
- International Week of Deaf People and International Day of Sign Languages
- Ignite Technology Grant
- World Mental Health Day
- YRDSB Student Services Instagram
Spotlighting Excellence, Achievement & Community
- Secondary Community Class Skills Challenge
Events, Program, Services & Updates
- Learning Disabilities Association of York-Simcoe (LDAYS)
Monthly Highlights
Making the Invisible, Visible: October is Learning Disabilities Awareness Month
October marks Learning Disabilities (LD) Awareness Month—a time to amplify understanding, reduce stigma, recognize strengths and support students who learn in different ways.
A Learning Disability is a brain-based difference that affects how a person takes in, processes, or uses information. Similarly, ADHD is a brain-based condition impacting attention, self-regulation, and impulse control. These differences may make it harder for a student to focus, stay organized, or manage time. 1 in 10 Canadians have a learning disability, making it the most common disability in schools. ADHD frequently co-occurs, underscoring the need for integrated supports across education, mental health, and community services. (Statistics Canada, 2024). With the right understanding and support, individuals with LDs and ADHD can thrive in school.
This year's campaign from Learning Disabilities Association of Ontario (LDAO) focuses on recognizing abilities, breaking stigma, and strengthening inclusion for individuals with LDs and ADHD. The core messages include:
- LDs and ADHD: Unique minds, remarkable potential.
- Remove barriers and students with learning disabilities show their true abilities.
- Break the stigma, focus on abilities!
- Inclusion works when students with learning disabilities get the support they need.
Part of creating an inclusive school environment is recognizing LDs and ADHD as part of an individual’s identity and providing appropriate accommodations, technology, and evidence-based instruction. When the stigma is removed, students with LDs and ADHD can fully participate and contribute their talents to the school community and beyond.
How can I recognize LD Awareness Month?
There are many ways you can recognize Learning Disabilities Awareness Month:
- Learn more about Learning Disabilities by visiting the Learning Disabilities Association York-Simcoe website and reading about Learning Disabilities on the YRDSB Learning Disabilities Strategic Plan webpage.
- Accessing and sharing the LD@Home & LD@School websites, as well as programs offered through Learning Disabilities Association York-Simcoe.
- Becoming familiar with resources created by YRDSB such as the Understanding How Processing Affects Learning Chart, LD Math Waterfall Chart, and Ideas to Support Students with LDs During Unstructured Times.
- Empowering students with LDs and ADHD to better understand their strengths/needs and become self-advocates.
- Following YRDSB Student Services Instagram account and sharing messages on LD Awareness month.
International Week of Deaf People and International Day of Sign Language
Each year, the International Week of Deaf People is celebrated during the last full week of September and the International Day of Sign Language is celebrated on September 23 annually. This year, staff and students at the Deaf and Hard of Hearing program at Alexander Mackenzie HS shared on what Deaf culture means to them, how they celebrate in class, and why raising awareness about the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community is so important for breaking barriers and promoting inclusive school environments. Click on the image below to check out the video.
Ignite Technology Grant
The Ignite Technology Grant is an opportunity for students and schools to host a club, activity and/or technology event within their school to bring awareness to the effective and successful use of technology for learning. This grant is done in partnership with LEARNstyle, one of YRDSB’s assistive technology training providers. The Ignite Technology Grant is designed to create leadership opportunities, build communication skills, and increase self-esteem for students with SEA equipment within their school community. Elementary and Secondary schools can apply for an award of up to $1000.
Another component of the Ignite Technology Grant are the Grade 12 Graduation Awards for students who will be graduating secondary school in June 2025. The Graduation Awards, up to $1500, are given to students who use SEA equipment to put towards the purchase of personal technology to assist in their post-secondary goals.
A total of $5400 will be distributed between the School and Graduation Awards. The distribution of awards is dependent upon the number and range of applications which meet the Ignite Technology Grant criteria. Applications open October 15, 2025 and close on November 28, 2025.
World Mental Health Day
World Mental Health Day will take place on October 10, 2025 and is an opportunity to discuss and examine ways to protect and improve mental health. The Fall newsletter from the YRDSB Mental Health Team highlights some of the ways to support our mental health through actively building resilience. For more information and tips on fostering mental health and well-being, check out the YRDSB Mental Health monthly newsletters throughout the school year.
YRDSB Student Services Instagram
Students Services is now on Instagram. Make sure to follow and stay tuned as we share good news stories, resources and events.
Spotlighting Excellence, Achievement & Community
YRDSB Students Shine at First-Ever York Region Skills Challenge Secondary Community Class Event
Last June, Secondary Community Class students participated in the Secondary Community Class Skills Challenge pilot event. This challenge offered students a practical opportunity to apply and reinforce a variety of skills necessary for future pathways, including oral communication, organization, problem-solving, math and literacy, and employment skills. The skills challenge was organized into three core events: Job Demonstration, Data Input, and Interview. The day also served as a great opportunity for community building, as students connected with peers from other schools. Overall, this event allowed students to demonstrate their learning and develop confidence in skills crucial for employability and future pathways.
Click on the image below to see the video of staff and students sharing about the event.
Events, Program, Services and Updates
From the Learning Disabilities Association of York-Simcoe (LDAYS)
LDAYS remains committed to offering programs, services, and events that support students with learning disabilities and/or ADHD, as well as their families. As we continue to provide both social and academic resources, along with exciting upcoming events, we’re excited to keep you informed about what’s next!
If you are interested in enrolling in our programs, please refer to the corresponding registration links and contact information below. Alternatively, feel free to email us at info@ldays.org or call us at 905-884-7933 extension 1 for more details!
Upcoming Events
Virtual Presentation: Fundamentals of Executive Function
October 15, 2025, 7:00 PM, Zoom, Free
Discover how executive function impacts learning, emotions, and behaviour in this 1-hour session led by Dr. Laurie Faith. Learn practical coaching strategies, tools for emotional regulation, and how to support learners with ADHD or LDs.
- Speaker: Dr. Laurie Faith, Assistant Professor at University of Toronto and creator of ActivatedLearning.org
- Registration
- Flyer
Ask the Experts: Educational Consultants Q&A
October 21, 2025, 7:00 PM, Zoom, Free
Got questions about IEPs, accommodations, or advocacy? Educational Consultants Karen and Ann Wolff are here to help. Bring your questions and get expert advice on navigating the school system.
- Topics include:
- IEPs/IPRCs
- Assistive Tech
- Learning Skills
- Advocacy & more
- Registration
- Flyer
Fall 2025 Programs & Services
Social Skills Program (Ages 7–12)
Help your child build confidence, friendship skills, and emotional awareness in a fun, small-group setting. Based on the proven PEERS® curriculum, led by trained professionals.
- Locations & Dates:
- Richmond Hill (LDAYS Office): Mondays, Oct. 20–Nov. 24, 5:30–6:30 PM
- Newmarket (Bogart PS): Tuesdays, Oct. 21–Nov. 25, 6:00–7:00 PM
- Simcoe County: Thursdays, Oct. 23–Nov. 27, Time TBA
Contact: Nina at 905-884-7933 ext. 1, nina.shwaizer@ldays.org
Homework & Beyond (Ages 10–12)
A drop-in program that blends academic help with social skills coaching in a relaxed, supportive space. Fully subsidized for families.
- Locations & Times:
- King Township: Thursdays, Oct 2–Nov 6, 4:00–6:00 PM
- Richmond Hill: Wednesdays, Oct 1–Nov 5, 4:00–6:00 PM
Outside the 10–12 age range? No problem, we’ll arrange an intake call!
Contact: Alicia at 905-884-7933 ext. 6, alicia.carter@ldays.org
SoAR Mindful Transition Program
For students in Grades 7–8 and 11–12 with LDs or ADHD. Build essential skills for school and beyond, study strategies, stress management, self-advocacy, and more.
- Group Format: 4 sessions, 6 students per group
- Richmond Hill: Wednesdays, Nov. 12–Dec. 3, 5:00–6:00 PM
Contact: Isabel at 905-884-7933 ext. 7, Isabel.khudr@ldays.org
Level Up Tutoring (Grades 3–7)
Personalized virtual support in math and literacy, tailored for students with LDs or ADHD. Boost confidence, build skills, and support your child’s learning journey with 1:1 expert tutoring.
Contact: Alicia at 905-884-7933 ext. 6, alicia.carter@ldays.org
Reading Rocks & JUMP Math (Ages 8–14)
Targeted, 1:1 or small-group literacy and math interventions for students who are significantly behind in their curriculum. Programs run 8 weeks, twice a week. Fee assistance available.
Contact: Alicia: 905-884-7933 ext. 6, alicia.carter@ldays.org
Awareness & Advocacy
October is Learning Disabilities Awareness Month!
1 in 10 Canadians has a learning disability. This October, let’s raise awareness, celebrate strengths, and break the stigma.
Oct 15 – LD Awareness Day
Host a presentation, share resources, or invite us to your school.
Watch our YouTube playlist
Listen to our podcast “Plugged In”
Get involved: info@ldays.org, 905-884-7933 ext. 1
V.I.P. Award – Nominate a Changemaker!
LDAYS is accepting nominations for our 2025 Very Important Person (V.I.P.) Award! Help us recognize someone making a real difference in the lives of individuals with LDs or ADHD. Nominate educators, students, or community members in York Region or Simcoe County.
We invite nominations for:
- Educators, administrators, and frontline community service workers who go above and beyond to support individuals with learning disabilities.
- Students who have specifically worked to raise awareness, reduce stigma, or improve understanding of Learning Disabilities and/or ADHD within their school community.
Deadline: October 14, 2025
Complete Nomination Form
Educational Presentations & Speaking Engagements
LD 101 Awareness Presentations – For Schools & Families
Book our 1-hour, interactive sessions for teachers, students, or parents to better understand learning disabilities and how to support all our learners.
Book today: 905-884-7933 ext. 1, info@ldays.org
Champions – Real Stories, Real Impact
Our Champions share powerful personal stories about living and learning with LDs and ADHD. Perfect for school assemblies, events, or community sessions.
Invite a speaker: 905-884-7933 ext. 1, info@ldays.org
Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) Meetings
The SEAC meets on the first Thursday of every month. All are welcome to attend and observe. For more information about SEAC and our SEAC members, please visit the SEAC webpage.
Upcoming SEAC Meetings
- October 9, 2025
- November 6, 2025
- December 11, 2025
- January 8, 2025
