YRDSB Blog

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Chair’s Message - Outgoing Trustee Recognition

With the October municipal election behind us, the 2018-2022 Trustee term of office is now drawing to a close, and we are saying good-bye to a number of our trustee colleagues. It is my honour to recognize Trustees Sherman, Cui, Terrell, Cordova, McRoberts, Nathan and Trustee Gilbert for the many contributions that they have made to public education in York Region.

Ontario Strengthening Holocaust Education to Counter Rising Antisemitism

On November 9, the Ministry of Education announced a series of reforms for Ontario schools to combat rising antisemitism, including the introduction of mandatory Holocaust learning in elementary schools. On behalf of the York Region District School Board, we welcome this announcement to strengthen Holocaust education.

Interim Director Appointment

Dear families,  On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I am pleased to announce the appointment of Scott Yake as the Interim Director of YRDSB, effective November 1, 2022.  Scott brings experience and knowledge from his previous roles as Associate Director with York Region District School Board and as Special Advisor with the Ministry of Education.   

Message from the Board Chair

This message was delivered at the September 13, 2022 Board meeting.  Recognition of Passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II I would like to recognize the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away on September 8. Our thoughts are with the people of the United Kingdom and all those in York Region, and around the world, who are mourning her passing. 

Welcome Back to School

Dear families,  We are so excited to be welcoming our students, staff and families back to school for the 2022-2023 school year. For most students, the school year will start on Wednesday, September 7, 2022.  We know you have many questions in advance of the start of the school year.  Health and Safety The health and safety of our students, staff and families remains our first priority, and we will continue to follow the direction and guidance of the Government of Ontario and York Region Public Health. 

End of Year Message

Dear Families, As we reach the conclusion of the 2021-2022 school year, we wish to thank all our staff members, students and their families for your continued dedication and support through another challenging year. Our students have benefited from your caring and compassionate approach. This has been another example of the importance and strength in the partnership our local schools have with the families and community they serve. 

Apology as per Special Board Meeting

This is an apology from Trustee Elizabeth Terrell in relation to a Trustee Code of Conduct report from the Integrity Commissioner.   Formal Written Apology from Trustee Elizabeth Terrell  Date: June 13, 2022 To Whom It May Concern,
Rainbow that reflects Progress Pride Flag, with words "Positive Space"

Recognizing Pride Month

As a school board, we remain strongly committed to creating working and learning environments where all students and staff can bring their full identities, feel welcome and valued, and work and learn in an environment that enables them to be successful. We know that our students are more likely to learn, engage and succeed in school when they know and feel that they matter and belong. This is particularly poignant in June when we recognize and celebrate the history and contributions of our 2SLGBTQI+ community.

Message from the Board Chair and Director of Education

It is with heavy hearts that we share the sad news that, over the weekend, Student Trustee Munira Chakera, passed away as a result of a motor vehicle collision. We share our deepest condolences with her family, friends and all those affected by the tragedy. Munira’s leadership and positive presence was felt by many at her school at Stouffville District Secondary School and throughout the region and the grief and sense of loss will affect many. 

Anti-Black Racist Violence in Buffalo, New York

Our hearts are heavy following the distressing incident of the deadly anti-Black racism in Buffalo, New York, that resulted in 10 people murdered and three more wounded. The individual who committed this heinous act did so fueled by anti-Black and antisemitic hate. This incident and other incidents of anti-Black racism have a deep and profound effect on members of York Region District School Board particularly on Black students, staff and community members.