February 2026
In January, the Dismantling Anti-Black Racism Strategy Implementation Plan Team hosted the ‘Growing Together - Planning for Success’ at Newmarket High School for students, families and staff.
Black students and families in Grades 6 through 10 were able to connect with educators, ask questions and build a personalized roadmap for a successful and fulfilling school experience.
This event was featured on our YRDSB Instagram page. Please visit this link on Instagram to see more about this event.
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
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
French Immersion registration: 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 Opened 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! Learn more about the YRDSB Kindergarten program and how to register.
Understanding and Navigating the Education System: Families of YRDSB Black Students - Virtual Information Session
Date: Monday, February 9, 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.
Upcoming Community Events and Announcements
Black Student Success 101 - Parents of Black Children (PoBC) and Ontario Alliance of Black School Educators (ONABSE)
Date: Elementary - February 2, Secondary - Part 1 - February 9, Part 2 - March 16, Virtual, from 7:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Black students work hard — but too often, that effort doesn’t translate into the results they deserve.
Black Student Success 101 is a culturally affirming, skills-based webinar series created to close that gap.
Hosted during Black History Month, these one-hour, highly interactive workshops provide practical, ready-to-use strategies that students can apply immediately — regardless of subject area. Learn more and register.
NextGen: Black High School Leadership Summit - McMaster University
Date: February 20, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at McMaster University, Peter George Centre for Living and Learning
This transformative summit will bring together 150–200 Black high school students for a full day designed to empower youth as they navigate academic planning, career exploration, identity development, and personal leadership.
This event provides students with exposure to a university campus in a welcoming, affirming environment while building practical skills they can use immediately in their academic, personal, and postsecondary planning. It's an opportunity to find community, explore strengths, and envision future pathways with the support of Black role models and mentors. Learn more and register by February 13, 2026. Contact us at Chehoree@mcmaster.ca.
Know Your Rights: Police & School Authority - Parents of Black Children (PoBC) Virtual Workshop
Date: February 24, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.
Black parents are often forced to navigate systems that were not built with our children’s safety or dignity in mind. Knowing your rights is a critical step in protecting yourself and your child.
LED BY: Matthew Campbell-William: Lawyer and social justice advocate who specializes in criminal, prison, and movement law. Learn more and register.
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.
Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (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: 6:00 - 7:00 pm
Ages 13 and up: 7:00 - 8:00 pm
Cohort 2: Dec. 8, 2025 - Feb. 26, 2026
Cohort 3: Mar. 12 - Apr. 30, 2026
Cohort 4: May 14 - Jun. 25, 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 and virtually each Wednesday from 5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
Learn more about this and other Sankofa Programs.
The Markham African Caribbean Canadian Association (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.
The Markham African Caribbean Canadian Association (MACCA) - 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.
The Markham African Caribbean Canadian Association (MACCA) - Student and Family Advocate Program
Date: ongoing
The Student and Family Advocate Program (SFA) is a Black community based program designed to support Black families and students as they engage with the education system. For more information and to enroll, please contact sfa@macca1987.com or call 289-338-4041
Black History Month Upcoming Community Events
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.
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.
The Markham African Caribbean Canadian Association (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.
Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA) and Aurora Black Community (ABC) 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.
Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (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.
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.
Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA) - Living at the Intersection: Celebrating Black Queer History & Futures
Date: February 12, 2026, from 5:30 - 6:30 PM (Virtual)
In celebration of Black History Month, this interactive gathering will feature storytelling about Black queer history, fun quizzes/trivia and more! Together, we will honour past Black Queer trailblazers and imagine futures that centre Black joy.
Open to Black 2SLGBTQIA+ community members and allies! Learn more and register.
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.
Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA) Community Care & Resource Mapping
Date: March 12, 2026, 5:30 – 6:30 PM (Virtual)
Explore self and community care while learning about wellness resources available through NACCA and other organizations supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ community members in York Region.
Open to Black 2SLGBTQIA+ community members and allies! 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.
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 a 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)