YRDSB Blog

Safety in YRDSB Schools

Dear families, We know that following the horrific terrorism and violence in Israel that began over the weekend and has continued to evolve over the course of the week, many in our school communities have concerns about safety both in communities and schools across York Region. You may see York Region District School Board’s (YRDSB)  initial statement, which includes community resources and tips for families to support your child. 

Terrorism and Violence in Israel

We join Canadians across the country in our shock and sadness at the acts of terrorism and violence in Israel over this weekend. Our thoughts are with all those who are affected by this violence.  We condemn terrorism, violence, antisemitism and all forms of hate and discrimination. We remain committed to creating learning and working environments that are safe, welcoming and inclusive for all learners and staff members.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

In the next few days, schools across York Region will be raising an Every Child Matters Flag for National Day of Truth and Reconciliation on September 30. We raise the flag to honour the thousands of lives lost and harmed in residential schools. We raise the flag to recognize the legacy of this dark chapter on First Nations, Métis, and Inuit families and communities. We raise the flag to recognize that we are living on the traditional lands of the First Peoples of this land. And we raise the flag as a symbol of our commitment to Truth and Reconciliation. 

Supporting the 2SLGBTQI+ Community

York Region District School Board remains committed to identifying and removing barriers to success and well-being for all students and staff, inclusive of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender or faith identity. For our students to reach their highest potential, we know their well-being is critical and that for them to thrive we must have learning and working environments that are identity affirming.

Welcome Back to School

Welcome back to school, and a very special welcome to students and families who are new to York Region District School Board. We hope that everyone had a relaxing and enjoyable summer, and is looking forward to the new school year ahead.  For our students starting elementary or secondary school, we would like to let you know that our skilled staff and educators are working hard to ensure a positive transition experience that helps students feel supported, energized and engaged.

Welcome Back to School

Welcome back to school, and a very special welcome to students and families who are new to York Region District School Board. We hope that everyone had a relaxing and enjoyable summer, and is looking forward to the new school year ahead.  For our students starting elementary or secondary school, we would like to let you know that our skilled staff and educators are working hard to ensure a positive transition experience that helps students feel supported, energized and engaged.

Message from the Director

On August 1, 2023, Bill Cober begins his role as Director of Education from Scott Yake who has been serving as Director of Education (Interim) since November 1, 2022.It is our sincere pleasure to serve the students, families and staff members in the York Region District School Board. We have both spent the majority, if not all, of our careers in education at York Region District School Board and throughout that time have seen such a genuine level of care and commitment to student learning, achievement and well-being. 

End of Year Message 2022-2023

Dear families, As we reach the end of the 2022-2023 school year, we want to take this opportunity to thank you for all that you have done to make this year a successful one. 

YRDSB Receives Report on Anti-Asian Racism

At the end of May, our Board received a report on anti-Asian racism from Dr. Reid from the University of Toronto and Dr. Ardavan Eizadirad of Wilfrid Laurier University. Dr. Reid and Dr. Eizadirad consulted with the Asian community of York Region to gather their lived experiences. They consulted with students, families, staff and community members who identify as Asian and invited them to complete surveys and attend virtual focus groups to provide their feedback. 
Cecil Roach

Associate Director Cecil Roach Announces Retirement

It is with mixed emotions that we share that Acting Associate Director of Equitable Outcomes and Schools Cecil Roach has announced his retirement, effective September 29, 2023. Associate Director Roach has served the education sector with distinction for over 42 years. After arriving in Canada from Montserrat in his early teens, Mr. Roach completed most of his schooling in Montreal and holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Concordia and McGill Universities.