January 2026
In December, the Centre for Black Student Excellence hosted a Kwanzaa Celebration at Bill Hogarth Secondary School for students, families and staff.
Hear directly from students, families, and staff in our video available now in the YRDSB newsroom or on YouTube.
This special event honoured African heritage, unity, and culture, provided time to reflect on the seven principles of Kwanzaa, and fostered community spirit through cultural traditions.
Thank you for subscribing to the mailing list. This newsletter is designed to share timely information with families of Black students in the York Region District School Board, including information about school board and community programs and events. You can expect to receive updates once or twice per month.
We also invite you to visit our Centre for Black Student Excellence on the board website to find information about our programs, Dismantling Anti-Black Racism Strategy, resources for students and families and links to community agencies.
To send your inquiries or feedback, please email: BlackStudentExcellence@yrdsb.ca.
YRDSB News and Events
Student Trustee Area Elections Open January 12, 2026
From January 12-18, students in grades 5 - 12 can vote for the student trustee candidate who will represent their area (Central, East, North, or West) in the final election taking place February 17 - 20. Voting closes January 18, 2026, at 8:00 p.m. Students will receive information on how to vote in their GAPPS accounts.
French Immersion Information Night and Registration (Event is Cancelled due to Inclement Weather)
Information Session: January 15, 2026, at 7 p.m.
This year, our Information session for Grade 1 entry into the French Immersion program will be held at French Immersion schools on January 15, 2026, at 7 p.m. Program locations and additional information is available on our website. If families are unable to attend the information session, they can hear about the French Immersion program on the Tune In YRDSB: French Immersion Podcast or watch a short video about French Immersion.
French Immersion registration opens: January 16 - February 9, 2026.
Parents or guardians of Year 2 Kindergarten students entering Grade 1 in 2026 who wish to enrol in the FI Program can email or call their home school office to indicate their intention to enrol. The home school will notify the French Immersion school, and the French Immersion school will contact families by phone or email to collect any necessary information.
If you are interested in French Immersion, please visit our website, the French Immersion Registration page, for more information on how to register.
Kindergarten Registration Opens January 16, 2026
Kindergarten registration for the 2026/2027 school year opens on January 16, 2026.
Get a head start on your child’s education by registering early. Early registration helps families secure spots in before and after-school care. We can’t wait to welcome our new little learners to Kindergarten for an exciting year of learning, growth and new friends! To learn more about the YRDSB Kindergarten program and to register, visit our website.
Understanding and Navigating the Education System: Families of YRDSB Black Students - Virtual Information Session
Date: Monday, January 26, 2026, from 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. Virtually
Families, parents, and caregivers, please join us for our monthly virtual meetings where families with Black children come together to learn about resources and upcoming programs for Black students in both elementary and secondary schools. Learn more and register.
Black History Month Celebrations in YRDSB
Dates:
Wednesday, February 4, 2026, 5:30-8:00 p.m. at Maple. H.S. Learn more and register.
Wednesday, February 11, 2026, 5:30-8:00 p.m. at Richmond Hill H.S. Learn more and register.
Monday, February 23, 2026, 5:30-8:00 p.m. at Middlefield C.I. Learn more and register.
Wednesday, February 25, 2026, 6-8 p.m. at Dr. J.M. Denison S.S. Learn more and register.
Join us for an engaging Black History Month event celebrating Black contributions to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, with a special focus on Black women leading and innovating in STEM.
The evening will feature voices connected to Ontario Tech University, hands-on STEM experiences for families, and opportunities to learn how Black excellence continues to shape innovation today.
The evening will begin with dinner and conclude with networking, creating space for learning, connection, and community building.
Evening Highlights
- Spotlight on Black female engineers and STEM professionals
- Interactive, family-friendly STEM activities
- Connections to postsecondary STEM pathways
- Celebration of Black innovation, past and present
- Time to connect with educators, professionals, and families
Upcoming Community Events and Announcements
Self-Care & The Power of Connection
Date: Sunday, January 25, 2026, 1-3 pm, NACCA Hub - 449 Eagle St
Join NACCA and Sawubona for a safe, affirming space for families of African descent to come together, share resources and expertise and support one another through the unique and often challenging journey of raising Black children or supporting a sibling of any age with a disability.
Sawubona (pronounced SOW:'bɔh:nah) is a Zulu greeting meaning “I see you.” This workshop invites families and loved ones into a space that values community and connection. Featuring a keynote talk, Q&A, light refreshments and fellowship. Learn more and register.
BFCN Scholarship Application Workshop
Date: Wednesday, January 28, 2025, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Virtual Workshop
The Black Foundation of Community Networks (BFCN) invites Black students and their families to a free online workshop on how to search, prepare, and apply for scholarships. If you are in Grade 8 or high school, this workshop is especially for YOU!
For more information about registering for the workshop or about the Black Foundation of Community Networks, contact Cheryl Yarde at info@bfcn.ca.
Kuumba Program and Rapid Access Therapy Program - York Hills Centre for Children, Youth and Families
Dates: Ongoing
Kuumba (koo-OOM-bah) is a counselling and therapy program offered through York Hills Centre for Children, Youth and Families. Kuumba at York Hills is a specialized mental health and wellness program for the Black and Black-identifying community that provides a safe place centred on culture, compassion, and empowerment.
We also offer mental health crisis support through our new partnership with Southlake Health in Bradford, Newmarket, Aurora, East Gwillimbury and Georgina.
Contact Us:
905-503-9560. Ask for “Kuumba Program”; kuumba@yorkhills.ca; www.yorkhills.ca/contact
Online form - Ask for the “Kuumba Program” ; Rapid Access Therapy Program booking link; Join our mailing list.
Interested in booking a group? Want to collaborate? Contact Teresa Knibb, Clinical Manager at tknibb@yorhills.ca.
NACCA Black Youth Mental Wellness Empowerment Series
Dates: Multiple Dates, October - June
Eight week Africentric workshop for Black youth (Grades 5-12) in York Region
Culturally affirming sessions on resilience, identity, and empowerment through peer connection, activities, and wellness tools.
Hybrid: In-person and virtual.
NACCA Hub, 449 Eagle St, Newmarket. Led by a mental health clinician.
Ages 12 and under: 6-7 pm
Ages 13 and up: 7-8 pm
Cohort 1: Oct. 9-Nov. 27, 2025
Cohort 2: Dec. 4, 2025-Feb.19, 2026
Cohort 3: Feb. 26-Apr. 23, 2026
Cohort 4: Apr. 30-Jun. 18, 2026
For any questions and registration, please email Josie Rose at jrose@naccacommunity.ca.
SANKOFA Cultural Identity Programs
Multiple dates October-June
York Region Alliance of African Canadian Communities (YRAACC) offers SANKOFA Mentoring, Cultural Identity Programs. In person at Bur Oak S.S., 933 Bur Oak Ave, Markham, from 10 am - 1:00 pm on the following dates;
October 4, 18, November 1, 15, 29, December 13, 2025
January 10, 24, February 7, 21, March 7, April 18, May 2, 30, June 13, 2026.
Learn more about this and other Sankofa Programs.
MACCA KINNECTYOUTH Mentoring Program
Date: In person weekly on Wednesdays, 4:30-7:00 p.m.
Join us for hands-on, interactive creativity and entrepreneurship workshops with opportunities to gain professional experience. There will be presentations from community leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs with individual and group mentorship. There will also be access to technology and weekly in-person meetings.
Aaniin Community Centre (Youth Room) 5665 14th Ave, Markham, ON L3S 3K5. For more information, please contact kinnectyouth@macca1987.com or 905-946-9998.
Learn to play STEEL PAN
Date: Every Saturday until May 30, 2026
Back by popular demand, learn to play STEEL PAN every Saturday. Adults’ session is 12-1 p.m., and Children are from 1-2 p.m. at 505 Hood Rd, Unit 5, Markham, ON L3R 5V6. Please register. For more information, please contact info@macca1987.com or call 905-976-9998.
Black History Month Upcoming Community Events
Pan African Flag Raising
Date: January 30, 2026, from 6-7 p.m., Aurora Town Hall, 100 John West Way
Join the Aurora Black Community (ABC), the Town of Aurora and the Aurora Public Library for an evening of community celebration as we kick off Black History Month — enjoy music, tropical appetizers, food, culture, and togetherness as we raise the flag and open a month-long celebration of Black History Month. This event is for everyone! Black History is CANADIAN HISTORY. Learn more and register.
City of Vaughan’s Celebration of Black History Month
Date: February 1, 2026, from 2-4 p.m., Vaughan City Hall, 2141 Major Mackenzie Dr.
The City of Vaughan joins the national celebration of Black History Month, a time to honour and recognize the extraordinary contributions and achievements of Black Canadians.
This year, the Black History Month Event will feature dance and music performances, complimentary refreshments, remarks from the Mayor and Members of Council, and more. Learn more and register.
Pan African Flag Raising Ceremony - Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA)
Date: February 2, 2026, from 10:30 - 11:00 a.m., 395 Mulock Drive, Newmarket
Join NACCA and the Town of Newmarket as we raise the Pan-African flag in honour of Black History Month. This annual tradition celebrates the strength and heritage of the African diaspora and the invaluable contributions of Black Canadians to our town’s social and cultural fabric. We reflect on the promise of freedom and our shared commitment to building a more just, inclusive future for all. Learn more.
MACCA Beyond the Code: Reimagining the Future Through BlackBrilliance
Date: February 5, 2026, from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., Flato Markham Theatre, 171 Town Centre Blvd, Markham
The Markham African Caribbean Canadian Association (MACCA) is inviting you to attend the 29th annual City of Markham/MACCA Black History Month Recognition Ceremony. The theme is Beyond the Code:- Reimagining the Future Through Black Brilliance. Learn more and register.
Furthermore, in recognition of Black History Month, MACCA is seeking nominations for the Community Appreciation Awards. These awards are a token of our recognition for outstanding contributions to our community. The recipients will be honored with a Certificate of Appreciation to be presented during the event.
Learn more and nominate an individual by January 28, 2026.
NACCA and Aurora Black Community Black History Gala
Date: February 7, 2026, from 5-9 p.m., Royal Venetian Mansion, Aurora
Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA) and Aurora Black Community (ABC) are proud to announce a new intermunicipal collaboration with the Town of Newmarket and the Town of Aurora for Black History Month 2026. Embracing our shared heritage together. This evening will feature live performances, distinguished speakers and moments of reflection and recognition.
Rooted in the principles of Umoja (Unity) & Ujima (collective work and responsibility), this collaboration celebrates our shared history and honours the strength and resilience of the African Canadian community. Learn more and register.
NACCA Black History Month Reception, Art Exhibition and Ujamaa Marketplace
Date: February 8, 2026, from 2 – 6 p.m. (program begins at 3:00 PM), Old Town Hall, 460 Botsford Street, Newmarket
The Black History Month Reception, Art Exhibition and Ujamaa Marketplace is an evening of celebration and reflection that embodies unity, pride and purpose.
Guests will enjoy a thoughtfully curated program featuring live performances, distinguished speakers and moments of recognition that honour the strength of the African diaspora. Guided by this year’s theme, “The Promise We Carry,” the evening invites us to celebrate how far we have come while reaffirming our shared commitment to justice, community and legacy. Learn more and register.
Black History Month Learning Opportunities
Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA) and Aurora Black Community (ABC). For more information and registration.
- During February, explore the History Exhibit: Heritage and Pride (Elman W. Campbell Museum), Art Exhibit: The Promise We Carry (Old Town Hall), and NACCA Library. Free 45 - 60 min guided tour.
- Video Challenge (Feb 7 – Mar 14, 2026) – High school students create a 1-minute video inspired by the museum exhibit.
- Community Art Exhibition – “The Promise We Carry” from Feb. 3- Feb. 28, 2026.
York University Black History Month Event
Date: February 10, 2026, 5:30-9:00 p.m., CIBC Lobby & Sandra Faire and Ivan Fecan Theatre - York University, Accolade East Building.
York University Faculty of Education, The Jean Augustine Chair in Education, Community, and Diaspora presents WORD, SOUND, POWER: An Annual Black History Month Celebration! This year's theme is “Centering Our Stories & Communities". Learn more and register.
Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA) and the Town of Newmarket Falls Illumination
Date: February 11, 2026, at Dusk at Riverwalk Commons, Newmarket
Experience the breathtaking sight of the falls illuminated in the Pan-African colours of red, yellow and green, a symbolic representation of pride and collective strength. This illumination pays tribute to the ancestors whose light continues to guide us, reminding us of the power of community and the beauty of tomorrow.
YRAACC Black History Month Event
Date: February 14, 2026, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Lauremont School, 500 Elgin Mills Rd E, Richmond Hill
York Region Alliance of African Canadian Communities (YRAACC) will be hosting a Black History Month 2026 Event. Black Love, Black Joy, Black Resilience…Braided in Love, Wrapped in Joy, Forged in Resilience: Our Story Lives on.
This event is free and will bring us together with Entertainment, Black Marketplace and a Networking and Cultural Lunch. Join us to hear from Jeff A.D. Martin: Motivational Speaker, Author and Coach. Learn more.
Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA) Paint & Sip: Art as Reflection with Chika Oh
Date: February 22, 2026, from 2 - 4 p.m., Newmarket Public Library
Unleash your creativity in this guided art session inspired by The Promise We Carry. Participants will explore themes of self-determination, heritage and legacy while creating a personal work of art. Led by a professional artist, this event offers space for self-expression, conversation and connection, a joyful reminder that creativity is an act of community care. Learn more and register.
Community Agencies
The Alliance of Educators for Black Students (AEBS)
AEBS is committed to promoting well-being and excellence in achievement for students of African/ Caribbean heritage. You can follow them on Twitter @AEBSyrdsb.
Learn more about Black community agencies that provide support in your area.
Aurora Black Community (ABC)
The Aurora Black Community Association (ABC) is led by a dedicated group committed to the work needed to dismantle anti-racism and discrimination, elevate and marginalize voice and bridge cultures. The ABC community is proud to have led the town of Aurora to officially declare February Black History Month.
ANCHOR Formerly Vaughan African Canadian Association
ANCHOR offers the program that aims to find your child’s trouble areas in understanding vocabulary, spelling, and grammar. This program will help strengthen subject comprehension, boost confidence, and improve their reading and writing skills.
Black York Region Youth (BYR Youth)
Black York Region Youth (BYR Youth) was founded in 2020 with the purpose of combating anti-Black racism, systemic racism, anti-Indigenous hate, and discrimination in all of its forms within York Region and its surrounding communities.
Markham African Caribbean Canadian Association (MACCA)
At MACCA, Students will follow a grade-appropriate curriculum. Curriculum content will evolve to include the study of Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) and will be Afri-centric.
Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA)
NACCA’s vision is to focus on African positive identity formation/ Rites of passage as a foundation for mental wellness, and supporting children in developing a positive sense of self. NACCA offers culturally relevant Mental Health Education and Counseling support programs for Black youth and families; financial literacy program; educational programs for the entire family; food security program; presentations and workshops to educate about racial prejudice & bias to reduce discrimination; annual scholarship program and more!
The Black Foundation of Community Networks (BFCN)
The Black Foundation of Community Networks (BFCN) is a non-profit organization that was founded in 2011 and continues to serve and support local Black communities. Based in Vaughan, Ontario, but proudly serves and supports Black communities across the province. BFCN provides free and low-cost programs, advocacy, and resources, and connects people with other local organizations and services.
York Region Alliance of African Canadian Communities (YRAACC)
YRAACC/Sankofa Program offers an African-centered curriculum with activities that include workshop sessions for students to explore their racial and cultural identity, self-esteem, critical thinking, self-reflection, teamwork, and community building. The program’s framework is based on The Seven Principles (The Nguzo Saba). The principles are Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity) and Imani (Faith).
Parents of Black Children
OMO Africentric virtual campus tutoring initiative, offered by Parents of Black Children, is a free high-touch tutoring program for Black students. Students receive tutoring twice weekly in French, Math, and English (Language Arts). Tutoring takes place on the Omo Africentric Campus. 1-on-1 tutoring support provided. To learn more, watch The Omo Africentric Campus is Back! video or visit Parents of Black Children.
Volunteer Opportunities
Students are encouraged to connect with community organizations in their local communities to find volunteer jobs and to develop leadership and team-building skills. Here are a few links to review.
BFCN – Black Foundation of Community Networks
York Region Alliance of African Canadian Communities (yorkregionaacc.ca)
Markham African Caribbean Canadian Association (MACCA)