September 2009 - TDSB School Websites

Main Switchboard 416-397-3000TDSB Web site www.tdsb.on.ca

September 2009

Produced byCommunications and Public A�airs5050 Yonge StreetToronto, ON M2N [email protected]

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2009-2010

www.tdsb.on.ca

Message from the Chair

The TDSB and parents share a common goal, which is tosee each and every student succeed to the best of theirability, so that when they graduate from our schools, realoptions are available for their future. Parental involvementis one of the keys to students’ success, and we welcomeparents’ input. That involvement goes beyond attendingteacher-parent interviews, and includes taking a genuineinterest in your child’s daily schooling activity and in theoverall health of your local school.

John CampbellChair of the Board

Message from the Director of Education

Welcome to another great year of learning and growing. Thisis your school – a place to make discoveries and friends. It isa learning community that welcomes families, brings peopletogether, and opens a doorway to the world.

Children arrive in Kindergarten with an eager light in theireyes, ready to grab life with both hands. My goal is to makesure that light is still burning bright as they walk across thestage on graduation day.

Learning is an adventure that begins at birth and lasts alifetime. It happens at home, at school, on the play-ground,and every minute of every day. Success starts with havinghigh expectations for every child, but it doesn’t end there. Ifwe ask a lot of our children, we must ask even more ofourselves.

Education is a shared responsibility. I believe it is up to all ofus: teachers, parents, families and communities, to provideknowledge, skills and confidence, encouragement andexample, environments that are secure yet doors that areopen to the world. As elders and mentors, our job is to makesure all children have the opportunity to explore in safety,and the support they need to be successful.

Students, your job is to make the most of every day andevery experience. Be curious. Ask questions. Read and seeand learn everything you can. Get involved in your schoolcommunity and involve others to make a difference. Most ofall, believe in yourself. Because we believe in you!

Dr. Chris SpenceDirector of Education

Parents!Get involved and be heard...

Parent involvement in education is critical to student success. Let your voice be heard about school board policies andprograms that affect your children. Join one of the TDSB’s seven Community Advisory Committees: Early Years, EquityPolicy, French, Inner City, Parent Involvement, Alternative Schools and Special Education.

TDSB-School Matters_0910F 10/2/09 2:28 PM Page 2

REVISEDCALENDARSchool Year 2009-2010

Board Meetings ................................................................416-397-3284Childcare Services ............................................................416-394-2072Community Involvement(40-hour volunteer requirement)......................................416-394-7178Continuing Education ......................................................416-338-4000Driver Education ..............................................................416-397-3309Education Quality & Accountability Office – EQAO ......1-888-327-7377

wwwwww..eeqqaaoo..ccoommEmergency – After Hours ................................................416-395-4620Equity................................................................................416-394-7302Fundraising Hotline ..........................................................416-397-3510GED – General Educational Development........................416-481-6043

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Human Rights Office ........................................................416-393-1029International & Visa Students ..........................................416-395-8109

EE--mmaaiill ttiisspp@@ttddssbb..oonn..ccaaE-Learning/Virtual School ................................................416-396-8481

EE--mmaaiill vvss@@ttddssbb..oonn..ccaaNewcomer Reception CentresEast – 24 Mountjoy Ave (Greenwood Subway) ..............416-393-0750West – 777 Bloor Street West (Christie Subway)............416-393-1444

Nutrition Services ............................................................416-394-7494Ontario College Application Services – OCAS ..............1-888-892-2228

wwwwww..oonnttaarriiooccoolllleeggeess..ccaaOntario Universities’ Application Centre – OUAC..........1-519-823-1940

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Permits ............................................................................416-395-7666EE--mmaaiill ppeerrmmiittss@@ttddssbb..oonn..ccaa

Scholarships/Trusts ..............................................416-395-8006/8242School Attendance Areas/Boundaries ............................416-394-7526

EE--mmaaiill ppllaannnniinngg@@ttddssbb..oonn..ccaaSchool Councils ................................................................416-397-3529Special EducationSouth East ......................................................................416-396-4984North East ......................................................................416-396-9003South West ....................................................................416-394-3763North West......................................................................416-394-7406

Student SuperCouncil ......................................................416-393-8100EE--mmaaiill ssuuppeerrccoouunncciill@@ttddssbb..oonn..ccaa

TeleHealth Ontario ........................................................1-866-797-0000Toronto Foundation for Student Success..........................416-394-6880

wwwwww..ssttuuddeennttssuucccceessss..ccaaToronto Public Health ......................................................416-338-7600

wwwwww..ttoorroonnttoo..ccaa//hheeaalltthhTranscripts ........................................................................416-396-4783

EE--mmaaiill ttrraannssccrriipptt@@ttddssbb..oonn..ccaaTransportationSouth East ......................................................................416-394-6163North East ......................................................................416-394-6175South West ....................................................................416-394-6184North West......................................................................416-394-7379

EE--mmaaiill ttrraannssppoorrttaattiioonn@@ttddssbb..oonn..ccaaTrustees’ Services ............................................................416-397-3061

Frequently Called NumbersGeneral Information Switchboard: 416-397-3000 TDSB web site: www.tdsb.on.ca

Labour Day September 7, 2009

Thanksgiving October 12, 2009

Christmas Break (last day of school is Dec. 21, 2007. School resumes Jan. 7, 2008) Dec. 21, 2009 to Jan. 1, 2010 inclusive

Family Day February 10, 2010

Mid-Winter Break March 15 to 19, 2010 inclusive

Good Friday April 2, 2010

Easter Monday April5, 2010

Victoria Day May 24, 2010

*Semestered secondary schools have the option of replacing the June 24 date with January 31 for semester changeover.


Who is the TDSB?Who We Are..........................................................3Our People, Our Schools ....................................3Our Diversity ........................................................3Our Student Success ............................................3Our Commitment to Learning ..............................3Funding ............................................................... 3Budget ................................................................ 3

Safe & Caring SchoolsSafe & Caring Schools Department ......................4Empowered Student Partnerships ........................4School Resource Officers .....................................5Safe Arrival Program ............................................5Bullying Prevention ..............................................5Reporting Abuse ..................................................5Police Reference Checks ......................................6Visitors ................................................................6Toronto Police Service Five-Core Curriculum ........6Student Safety Line ..............................................7

Getting StartedStarting School ....................................................8Immunization ......................................................8Admissions ..........................................................9Kindergarten ........................................................9Parenting and Family Literacy Centres ..................9How to Find Your School ......................................9Optional Attendance ..........................................10Student Transportation ......................................11International Students........................................11Families New to Canada ....................................12English as a Second Language ..........................12Severe Weather ..................................................13Professional Development Days ........................13TFSS ..................................................................14

Student and Parent LearningSupportSchool Councils..................................................15Parent Concern Protocol ....................................15Trustees..............................................................15Child Care ..........................................................16

Keeping Informed ..............................................16Alternative Schools ............................................17Student Agendas/Planners ................................17Volunteering at Your Child’s School....................17Extracurricular Activities ....................................17Partnerships ......................................................18Alternative Programs ..........................................19Remedial Support ..............................................19Library and Learning Resources..........................20

Special Education and SupportSpecial Education ..............................................21Support Services ............................................... 22Information.........................................................23

CheckpointsStudent Assessment, Evaluation, and Reporting ..24Report Cards ......................................................24Parent/Teacher Conference ................................24EQAO..................................................................24

Moving UpPreparing to Move Up ........................................25What Parents Can Do..........................................25What Students Can Do .......................................25Student Success.................................................26Ontario Secondary School Diploma....................27Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program ..............28Cooperative Education ......................................28 Student Leadership............................................29Driver Education ................................................29

Learning For LifeContinuing Education ........................................30Virtual School ....................................................30Adult Day Schools ..............................................30Seniors’ Daytime Programs ................................31Community Use of School Facilities–Permits......31

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SCHOOL MATTERS: A Parent’s Guide to the TDSB

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School Matters: A Parent's Guide to the TDSB is published for you, the parents. As partners in yourchildren’s education, we want to keep you informed of the programs and services we provide, thepolicies that guide us, and other important information.

We hope that you find this publication informative and helpful during the 2009–2010 school year.


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3 SCHOOL MATTERS: A Parent’s Guide to the TDSB

Who is the TDSB?Who We Are: Facts and Figures About the TDSBThe Toronto District School Board (TDSB) was created on January 1, 1998, by the amalgamation of sevenindividual Boards of Education. Serving 1.6 millionelectors of the City of Toronto, we are the largest schoolboard in Canada and sixth largest in North America.The city is divided into 22 wards and public schoolsupporters elect a school trustee to representeach ward.

Our People, Our Schools• 257,000 elementary and secondary students• 16,054 teachers• 1,000 principals and vice-principals 1,000• 595 elementary, secondary, alternative, and

specialized schools on 562 sites• 4,595 classroom support staff (Special Education

and regular programs)• 155,000 Continuing Education students• 3,700 school office staff and caretaking staff

Our Diversity• 75+ languages represented in our schools (not

including regional dialect)• (24%) of our students were born outside of Canada,

in 175+ countries• Canada’s most culturally rich school board

Our Student Success• More than 40% of our students graduate as Ontario

Scholars, achieving an 80% average in their top sixcourses

• Better than 80% of our graduates apply for universityor college admission

• Approximately 75% of all students entering Grade 9 will graduate with an Ontario Secondary SchoolDiploma (OSSD).

Our Commitment to Learning• TDSB supports life-long learning, from early childhood

to adult continuing education • We’re committed to helping all our students to reach

their full learning potential.

Our Funding• Provincial education grants are tied tostudent enrolment - when the number ofstudents rises or falls, it impacts our funding.• Since 2001, our enrolment has fallen by approximately13% or 36,000 students, and is projected to decline by afurther 3,300 students.

Our BudgetAt a Board meeting on June 29, TDSB Trustees approveda balanced budget with total operating expenditures of$2.5 billion for the 2009/10 school year. This budgetfocuses on priority areas of teaching and learning,student success and supports for vulnerable students.The budget process also took two important stepstoward long-term budget sustainability and to addressthe impact of declining enrollment:

11.. The Toronto Lands Corporation (TLC) established in2007 to make the most of the Board’s under-utilizedcapital assets

22.. The Better Schools, Brighter Future process, whichtakes TDSB to the next level through a multi-year strategysupporting investment in school consolidation, up-to-date programs and school buildings to meet the 21stcentury needs of students and communities

For more information on our budget, please visit our website at wwwwww..ttddssbb..oonn..ccaa and click on AAbboouutt UUss, scrolldown the right hand side and click on TTDDSSBB BBuuddggeett.

FUNDINGBUDGET


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4SCHOOL MATTERS: A Parent’s Guide to the TDSB

Safe & Caring SchoolsSafe & Caring SchoolsDepartmentKeeping our schools safe is a collective responsibility andit starts by encouraging responsible and respectfulbehaviour at all times. A safe and caring learning andworking environment for students, staff, and visitors is ofprimary importance to the TDSB. The TDSB Safe andCaring Schools, Occupational Health & Safety, and FacilityServices departments work in partnership with otherBoard departments such as Support Services, Attendance,Guidance, Equity, Special Education and Personal andSocial Skills Development to promote and supporteffective school planning, system and school-basedprevention programs, student leadership and traininginitiatives, and professional development programs.These departments also work in partnership with parents,parent groups, the community, and other organizationsand partners to address any and all safety concerns.

Safe & Caring SchoolsThe TDSB supports a safe and caring learning and workingenvironment for students, staff, and visitors. All schoolsprepare for emergency situations with lockdown drills, firedrills, and prevention programs and staff are well-trainedto respond in such situations. Some schools have safetymonitors in place for support. School Resource Officersalso support many of our Secondary schools. The TDSBworks with parents, parent groups, the community, andother organizations to address safety concerns as allschools have a Safe and Caring Schools Committee.Parents and community partners are welcome to workwith their local school to help develop safe and caringschool plans and programs.

In June 2008, the TDSB revised its Code of Conduct Policyin keeping with Ministry directives and developed anoperation procedure Consequences for InappropriateBehaviour. The TDSB also revised the Bullying Preventionand Intervention Policy. In keeping with Ministry directivesregarding progressive discipline, the TDSB developed anew Progressive Discipline and Promoting PositiveStudent Behaviour Policy. This policy provides a range ofinterventions, supports and consequences to address

inappropriate behaviour and promote positive studentaction. A variety of programs have also been added tomeet the needs of suspended and/or expelled students.

Empowering StudentPartnerships (ESP)ESP is a student-led partnership between the TorontoPolice Service, the Safe Schools Network, City Council,ProAction and all the school boards in the City of Toronto.The primary focus of ESP is to empower students to plan,organize, and execute a year-long safe schools initiative intheir local schools and communities. A priority of ESP is tocollaborate with Toronto Police in addressing one of theirservice priorities, youth victimization and violence. Acentral steering committee, chaired by the Toronto Policewith memberships from all involved constituents helps toorganize main events, promote activities, and support thework undertaken by a local ESP Committee in each school.Local ESP school-based committees will meet on a regularbasis at their school to plan and execute their activity.Representatives from each local school’s ESP committeewill meet monthly with Toronto Police and board staff inDivisional Meetings. Three times a year the DivisionalCommittee will meet at a Central City-wide Committee tolook at broader issues and help plan larger proactiveactivities.

Primary funding for this initiative is through ProAction (avoluntary network of corporate sponsors dedicated toinitiatives involving Toronto Police). Additional funding willbe made available through the Safe Schools Network andsome corporate sponsors.

Students involved directly in ESP activities will be able toearn their 40 hours of community service required for highschool graduation.

This year, the TDSB expanded its highly successful ESPprogram to 66 schools with Grades 7 and 8 classes. TheSafe and Caring Schools Office is working to expand theprogram to include all of our schools. Together the ESPprogram, at the elementary and secondary school levels,is the single largest student-led safety program in all ofCanada.


SEVERE WEATHERSevere weather conditions may require the TDSBto cancel transportation or, in extreme conditions,close schools, In the event transportation is cancelledor schools are closed, the local media will be informedby 6:00 a.m. Tune into your local radio and televisionstations for the latest information. If weather conditionsbecome extreme after students are in school, adecision to close schools will be made by 11:00 a.m.and broadcast by noon.In this case, elementary students will remain in theschool until they are picked up by a parent or parentdesignate. It is recommended that: parents/guardianskeep children at home if weather conditions appear tobe extreme; become familiar with the Severe Weatheroperational procedures PR.519 COM found on theBoard we site at www.tdsb.on.ca; listen to designatedradio stations for school closures beginning at 6:30a.m. or for possible early closing at noon; provideschool with emergency telephone number for child; beprepared to pick child up or make arrangements for thewelfare and safety of child if required.

School ResourceOfficersIn September 2008, the TDSB inpartnership with the Toronto PoliceService launched the SchoolResource Officer (SRO) Initiative in21 schools across the City. This yearthe program has been expanded to36 schools. The goal of the SROInitiative is to develop and enhancerelationships with students, staffand parents to help fosterenvironments of trust and opennessin our school communities.

Safe ArrivalProgramTDSB elementary schools have achild Safe Arrival program. Onceattendance is checked and a child isfound to be absent without noticethe school will call the emergencynumbers provided by theparents/guardians. For moreinformation, or to give advanceabsence notice, please contact yourlocal school.

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Safe & Caring Schools (cont.)

SEVEREWEATHER

Bullying Prevention““LLeett’’ss SSttoopp tthhee BBuullllyyiinngg”” is a Resource forElementary School Communities is acomprehensive elementary schoolprogram emphasizing specific ways todevelop a safe and caring community.This TDSB developed curriculum looks atways to challenge bullying behaviourwhile providing strategies and resourcesto build up those who are engaged withbullies. This anti-bullying focus or programcan be part of a good school-wide safeschool plan. It consists of strategies foradministrators to enhance currentpractices already in place in schools. Itincludes a series of classroom lessonsfrom Kindergarten to Grade 8. Everyschool in the TDSB is expected to have aBully Prevention Program operating intheir school. The TDSB has established aprocess of accountability to ensure thatprevention programs like Bully Preventionare in place and are active.

Reporting AbuseThe Child and Family Services Act requiresthat anyone who has a suspicion that achild is being abused or neglected willreport the situation to a Children’s AidSociety. There are four Centres in Toronto.

They are:• Children’s Aid Society of Toronto:

416-924-4646• Catholic Children’s Aid Society of

Toronto: 416-395-1500• Jewish Child and Family Services of

Toronto: 416-638-7800• Native Child and Family Services of

Toronto: 416-969-8510

For further information on the TDSB’spolicy, visit the TDSB web site atwww.tdsb.on.ca, click on “About Us” then“Policies.” Enter “reporting abuse” in thesearch box.


Police ReferenceChecksRegulation 521/01 (now 322/03) of theEducation Act requires school boards tocollect a Police Reference Check (PRC). Allemployees of the TDSB must complete apolice reference check as part of theemployment process prior to commencingwork. Once a PRC has been collected underthis Regulation, school boards are requiredto collect, on an annual basis, an “OffenceDeclaration” (a form to update a person’sinformation on file by declaring any newcriminal code convictions). As of September1, 2004, all volunteers in schools are alsorequired to complete a police referencecheck according to the standards outlined inthe Volunteer and Police Checks document.Once the PRC is completed an annualOffence Declaration form is also requiredeach school year. All Service Providers arerequired to complete a police referencecheck through the Ontario Education ServicesCorporation (OESC) and present the OESCcard to the school office when entering aschool. All post secondary co-op studentscompleting practicums and those individualsseeking volunteer experience to assist theirentry into faculties of education are requiredto contact the Ontario Education ServicesCorporation (OESC) for their police referencecheck. They must also present the OESC cardto the school office.

If you require more information, please call416-393-0759.

VisitorsTDSB schools are the heart of thecommunity. Visitors to schools are welcomeand must begin their visit by reporting to themain office and signing in with staff. Eachschool has its own procedure regardingsafety. Doors that are locked are to berespected and we ask that all visitors adhereto the school’s safety procedures. This is toensure the safety and well-being of ourstudents, parents, and staff.

THE TORONTO POLICE SERVICE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

SAFETY PROGRAM FIVE-CORE CURRICULUM

Traffic Safety–Junior & Senior Kindergarten

Safe Kids & Street Proofing–Grade 2

Bullying–Grade 5

Drug Awareness, Youth & The Law–Grade 6

Youth Violence & Gangs–Grade 8

“Educating children about personal safety, youth violence, and youthvictimization are the keys to the reduction of youth violent crime and

increase in community safety…”

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The TPS Elementary School Safety Program’s Five-CoreCurriculum teaches elementary school children about:


FIRST AIDShould your child suddenly become ill or injured, school staff will tend to his or herimmediate needs and contact you. It is imperative that you provide the school with currentemergency contact information. If you or an appointed guardian cannot be reachedimmediately, your child will be supervised at school. If emergency services are required, they willbe contacted. Each of our schools has staff members with first aid training.

LONG-TERM ILLNESSShould your child need to stay away from school for an extended period of time, you canarrange to receive appropriate learning materials and curriculum outlines from your school. We also haveprograms for children in hospital. Talk to your principal for further information.

ALLERGIES AND MEDICATIONMany schools are peanut-free zones to protect children with allergies. If your child is allergic to somethingthat may be present in the school, or if your child needs to be given special medication throughout the day,speak to the principal to discuss arrangements.

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Safe Schools (cont.)

FIRST AID


Getting StartedStarting SchoolStarting school is a big step in your child’s life. At theTDSB, your child is entering a school system that valuesthe uniqueness and diversity of all its students andworks to provide each and every student with anoutstanding education. As a parent, you are your child’smost important teacher. Because children achievehigher success when parents work closely with schools,we invite you to be involved in every aspect of yourchild’s education. You can help your child to besuccessful by:• preparing your child for the first school experience by

visiting the school and playing on the schoolyard• getting to know your child’s teacher and school

principal• talking with your child about things that happen at

school• attending school events or parenting programs

offered by the school• attending parent-teacher conferences

You can become further involved by joining the schoolcouncil and participating in school activities. Before thefirst day of school, take some time to visit the schoolwith your child so that the route to school, the building,and the surroundings become familiar.

For more information on ways to support your child athome, please visit www.tdsb.on.ca, click on“Programs,” then “Kindergarten,” in the “key links” and“Frequently Asked Questions.”

ImmunizationIt is the law in Ontario for all children attending schoolto be immunized against serious diseases, or to providea valid exemption as regulated by The Immunization ofSchool Pupils Act (ISPA). Primary students need to beup-to-date with diphtheria, tetanus, polio, measles,mumps, and rubella vaccines. Secondary students needdiphtheria and tetanus boosters in adolescence (usuallybetween age 14 and 16).

Each year, Toronto Public Health reviews theimmunization records of TDSB students for receipt ofmandatory vaccines or for a valid exemption. To protectthe health of all, children without an up-to-date recordmay be suspended from school, until parents providethis information or file an exemption with Toronto PublicHealth.

To learn more, call the Toronto Public Health Immunization Information Line at 416-392-1250 or visitwww.toronto.ca/health.

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Getting Started (cont.)3


AdmissionsEvery child who lives in Toronto is welcome to attend aTDSB school and can register at any time during theschool year. For more information, visit the InternationalPrograms and Admissions office at 5050 Yonge Street,call 416-395-8109 or 416-395-9618, or [email protected].

Parents of students aged 4 to 13 can register directly attheir neighbourhood school by bringing the followingitems:• Proof of age (for example, a birth certificate,

passport, baptismal certificate, etc.), aanndd• Proof of home address (such as a purchase or lease

agreement or a utility bill showing name andaddress), aanndd

• Proof of custody (where applicable), aanndd• Proof of Canadian citizenship, permanent resident

status, or refugee status.

KindergartenTo attend junior kindergarten in September, childrenmust be four by December 31. To attend seniorkindergarten, children must be five by December 31.

FFeebbrruuaarryy is registration month in TDSB schools. Ifparents miss the February registration, the TDSBwelcomes families to register their children forkindergarten at any time before school starts. Forregistration dates and times, please call your localpublic school.

For more information about kindergarten, visitwww.tdsb.on.ca click on “Programs,” then“Kindergarten,” in the “key links” section.

Parenting and FamilyLiteracy CentresParenting and Family Literacy centres are TDSBprograms where parents and caregivers participate inactive learning through play with their infants andyoung children. These free programs are located in 54 schools and positively introduce parents to anintegrated early learning environment. This helpsprepare children for school entry and builds positiveconnections to the child’s future school. Parents andcaregivers must attend with the child. The centresare located in 54 schools across the city. Call 416-394-2067 for more information.

How to Find Your SchoolStudents who reside within the City of Toronto have theright to attend a school which is designated to servetheir residential address. The on-line TDSB Street Guideidentifies the designated schools for each residentialaddress. Visit www.tdsb.on.ca and select “Find YourSchool” from the menu.


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Infectious/Communicable DiseasesTTDDSSBB iiss pprreeppaarreedd ffoorr HH11NN11

Over the summer the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) hascontinued to monitor the H1N1 situation and is prepared.Information on the TDSB’s H1N1 preparedness is available on theBoard’s website, www.tdsb.on.ca, including an updated PandemicResponse Plan. This Plan outlines measures the TDSB will take toensure ongoing communication and reassure parents andcommunity members of our ability to respond should there be anew wave of an H1N1 outbreak.

In June 2009, a new cleaning protocol that ensures major points ofhand contact such as door knobs, handrails, taps and drinkingfountains are wiped down and disinfected was put in place. Thisproactive measure was adopted to try and slow down the spreadof the virus and will continue throughout the school year.

Parents and/or guardians are encouragedto follow the directions of Toronto PublicHealth and remind their children to be vigilant in their personalhygiene practices. If anyone (child or parent) shows any signs offlu-like symptoms, they should stay home and follow up with yourmedical practitioner.

TDSB is committed to protecting the health and well being of allour students and staff and will continue to monitor the situationand provide updates on new developments to students andparents when necessary.

If parents have any questions or concerns they should contacttheir school principal directly or visit the Board website atwww.tdsb.on.ca for additional information.

Optional AttendanceStudents also have the opportunity to access schoolsoutside of the school that is designated to serve theirresidential address by applying for optionalattendance. Acceptance at these schools is subject tospace availability and program suitability. Theprocedures, conditions, and timelines relating tooptional attendance are described in the OptionalAttendance policy and the Optional Attendanceoperational procedure found on the TDSB web site atwww.tdsb.on.ca. Each year in January, schools areclassified as limited or closed to optional attendancebased on the space they have available for theupcoming school year.

• A school classified as limited can accept studentson optional attendance. A limited school is notobliged to accept all students who apply onoptional attendance. Acceptance is conditionalupon space being available in the appropriate gradeand program.

• A school classified as closed cannot accept anystudents on optional attendance. Only studentsresiding within the school’s attendance area will beaccepted.

If a school is classified as limited and you areinterested in applying to that school, please contact theschool’s principal.

To find a particular school’s optional attendance status,visit the TDSB web site at www.tdsb.on.ca and select“Optional Attendance” under “Parents.”

Please note that the optional attendance status isupdated every January for admission in September.Many schools that are limited to optional attendancehave their available spaces filled in the spring. Pleaseconfirm if a limited school has space available bycalling the school directly.

If you have any questions aboutoptional attendance, please contactthe school directly.


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Getting Started (cont.)3


STUDENT TRANSPORTATIONYour child may be eligible for transportation to andfrom school if you live beyond the following distances:

• junior kindergarten to grade 5–1.6 km or more (school bus)• grades 6 to 8–3.2 km or more (TTC tickets)• grades 9 to 12–4.8 km or more (TTC tickets dependent on

financial need)

Transportation may also be provided for students who have amedical condition or disability that severely limits ability to walk.If your child is placed in a Special Education class or FrenchImmersion program not located in your home school, he or shemay also be eligible for transportation. Transportation is notprovided for students attending any school or special program attheir request, even when distance is a factor.

To find out if your child is eligible for transportation, talk to yourprincipal. You can also ask for a copy of the TDSB studenttransportation brochure from your principal or your localTransportation Office.

• Transportation, South East 416-394-6163• Transportation, North East 416-394-6175• Transportation, South West 416-394-6184• Transportation, North West 416-394-7379

You can also contact Transportation via e-mail [email protected].

Cancellation: In times of severe weather, the TDSB updates radio and TVstations with the status of school closures or school bus cancellations.Parents and students are advised to listen to the radio and televisionbroadcasts for the latest news, particularly during severe weather days.

InternationalStudentsThe TDSB welcomes internationalstudents from many countries. Inour schools, these students find awide range of world-class academic,business, technological, and otherspecialized programs taught byhighly qualified teachers. As well,international students receiveEnglish as a Second Language (ESL)courses to facilitate their rapid andsmooth integration into the regularcurriculum.

For more information aboutprograms and supports forinternational students, call416-395-9718 or 416-395-8109, e-mail [email protected], or visitwww.studytoronto.ca.

STUDENTTRANSPORTATION


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Families New to CanadaWe are pleased to welcome students from around theworld into our schools. Our teachers and counsellorsare sensitive to the needs of students new to Canadawho may need help adjusting to life in a new country.

For information about admission eligibility to TDSBschools, please contact the International StudentServices and Admissions Office at 416-395-8109 or416-395-9618 or e-mail [email protected].

We have four NNeewwccoommeerr RReecceeppttiioonn CCeennttrreess to welcomeand assist secondary school students new to Canada.Secondary school students will have an assessment oftheir English proficiency and mathematics skills at thereception centre and will then proceed to their localsecondary school. Please call first to book anappointment.

Students whose home secondary school is: Bloor C.I.,Central Commerce, Central Technical School, Forest HillC.I., George Harvey C.I., Harbord C.I., Humberside C.I.,Jarvis C.I., Lakeshore C.I., Lawrence Park C.I., OakwoodC.I., North Toronto S.S., Northern S.S., Parkdale C.I.,Runnymede C.I., West Toronto C.I., Western TechnicalCommercial, Vaughan Road Academy, or York MemorialC.I., should go to the:WEST END RECEPTION CENTREThe Bickford Centre 777 Bloor Street West416-393-0542(near Christie subway station)

Students whose home secondary school is: C.W.Jefferys S.S., Downsview S.S., Emery C.I., Etobicoke C.I.,Kipling C.I., Martingorve C.I., North Albion C.I.,Northview Heights S.S., Scarlett Heights E.A.,Thistletown C.I., Richview C.I., Silverthorn C.I., SirSandford Fleming S.S., West Humber C.I., Weston C.I.,

Westview Centennial S.S.,. or William Lyon MackenzieC.I., should go to the:THISTLETOWN RECEPTION CENTRE20 Fordwich Crescent416-394-7698(Islington Ave. south of Finch)

Students whose home secondary school is: BendaleBTI, Birchmount Park, Cedarbrae C.I., Danforth C.I.,David and Mary Thomson C.I. Eastern Commerce, EastYork C.I., Leaside S.S., Malvern C.I., Marc Garneau C.I.,Monarch Park C.I., RH King Academy, Riverdale C.I., SirOliver Mowat C.I., Sir Robert Borden BTI, W.A. PorterC.I., West Hill C.I., Wexford C.I., Wilfred Laurier C.I.,Winston Churchill C.I., or Woburn C.I.,GREENWOOD RECEPTION CENTRE24 Mountjoy Avenue416-393-0750(near Greenwood subway station)

Students whose home secondary school is: A.Y. JacksonS.S., Agincourt C.I., Albert Campbell C.I., Don Mills C.I.,Dr. Norman Bethune C.I., Earl Haig S.S., George S.Henry S.S., Georges Vanier S.S., L’Amoreaux C.I., LesterB. Pearson C.I., Newtonbrook S.S., Sir John A.Macdonald C.I., Stephen Leacock C.I., Victoria Park S.S.,or York Mills C.I., should go to the:GEORGES VANIER RECEPTION CENTRE3000 Don Mills Road East416-395-9440(Don Mills Road East south of Finch )

Visit www.tdsb.on.ca, click on “programs” and see“Newcomer programs section”


3


The Toronto Foundation for Student SuccessThe TDSB has its own charitable organization called the Toronto Foundation for Student Success.

Funding what falls through thecracks so our children do not

The mission of the Toronto Foundation for StudentSuccess (TFSS) is to assist the students of the TDSB tobenefit physically, emotionally, and intellectually fromeach school day. The TFSS exists to address the manyneeds of our students—which are not covered througheducation funding—and they are dedicated to removingthe non-academic obstacles to learning.

Students under extreme stress cannot learn and theTFSS’ goal is to help alleviate stress factors experiencedby students—such as hunger, poverty, and violence—which impede academic success. The Foundationworks to achieve this through nutrition programs,providing support to Parenting and Family LiteracyCentres, and the development of pilot programs,thereby contributing to an environment for learning inwhich students can be successful.

1 in 3 children in Toronto lives inpoverty and goes to school hungry

The TFSS serves 77,000 students in 460 nutritionprograms—that’s over 8 million meals and snacks in aschool year! The funding for these essential programs isfrom a variety of sources as shown at the top of thenext column:

By working together with the community, the TFSScontinues to seek out non-traditional funding sourcesto help students reach high levels of achievement andto acquire the knowledge, skills, and values they needto become responsible citizens.

How can you help?In addition to individual donations, the TFSS is alwaysin search of corporate partners, from the smallentrepreneur to major institutions, who understand ourmission and would like to make a dramatic differencein the lives of students.

The Toronto Foundation for StudentSuccess serves 77,000 students in460 nutrition programs

As well, there are ongoing volunteer opportunities withthe Foundation ranging from working hands-on with ourprograms, helping to stuff envelopes for a mailing, orproviding assistance with any of our many specialfundraising events throughout the year.

If you are interested in contributing some of your time or in making a donation, please call us at416-394-6880 or visit us at www.studentsuccess.ca.

City of Toronto

Community (Parents, Corporate/Business, Foundations)

Ministry of Children and Youth Services

Estimated Value of Volunteer Time

In Kind (Food Donations)

Getting Started (cont.)


3


FEEDING OUR FUTURE–NOURISH THE BODY ... NOURISH THE MIND

Sadly, in Toronto, one in three children live in poverty. Too many students arrive atschool hungry. A 2007 survey revealed that 41% of Toronto school children startedschool each day without breakfast.

In 2007/2008, the Toronto Foundation for Student Success and their partners made hunger apriority by helping to support over 500 breakfast, lunch and snack programs, providingnutritious food to over 90,000 children every school day. While the Feeding Our Future programis making a tremendous impact, there is still much work to do. However, funding currentlyprovides just a small fraction of every dollar required and the program has some significantshortfalls:• Many hungry students are not receiving assistance.• Some programs cannot afford fresh fruit and vegetables, crucial components of a healthy diet.• Other programs are forced to forgo milk to stretch their budget. Further support is needed toreach our goal of no hungry students.

SPROTT ASSET MANAGEMENT GIFT OF SIGHT AND SOUND PROGRAM

The Gift of Sight and Sound program is a collaboration between Sprott Asset Management, Wal-Mart Canada, the Canadian Hearing Society, the Parenting & Family Literacy Programs ofthe Toronto District School Board and the Toronto Foundation for Student Success. Vision andHearing screening tests are offered to elementary school students as well as pre-schoolstudents.

Elementary school staff told us that many children are struggling because they have difficultyseeing the blackboard or hearing classroom lessons clearly. Children that cannot see or hearclearly are unable to perform to their full potential. The Gift of Sight and Sound program notonly provides screening but also facilitates medical follow-up. This can include free glassesand/or hearing assistance devices. More than 10,000 children were screened in 2008/2009.

NUTRITION AND SIGHT & SOUND


4


Student and Parent Learning Support

Parent and Community Involvement Policy StatementThe TDSB believes that education is a sharedresponsibility among parents, the community,students, staff, and the Board. By working together, we all contribute to the improvement of our schoolsand to the success of our students.

School CouncilsEach TDSB school is required to have a school councilmade up of the principal, parents, teachers, supportstaff, students (secondary schools), and communitymembers. The purpose of the council is to activelyengage parents to improve student success. It alsoprovides a regular opportunity for its members todiscuss how to make the school a better place forlearning for its students. The principal brings importantinformation about the school to the school council. Theschool council, in turn, advises the principal on mattersrelated to the learning goals of the school, the school’spolicies and procedures, students’ needs, activitiesand resources for students and parents, and ways ofinvolving parents in the life of the school. The schoolcouncil is required to hold at least four generalmeetings each school year that are open to all parentsin the school, and a membership election inSeptember. The elected chair of the council is a parentof a child in the school. For more information aboutyour school council, please call your school or the chairof your school council. For information on schoolcouncils in general visit the TDSB web site atwww.tdsb.on.ca, select “Parents” and then “SchoolCouncils.”

Parent Concern ProtocolThe TDSB Parent Concern Protocol is a tool for parentsto address school and classroom concerns. Theseguidelines, based on practices currently used by theTDSB, have been formalized to ensure consistency,efficiency, and transparency across the school system.It is not intended to replace existing problem-solvingprocesses set out in specific legislation or Boardpolicies, but is to be used when not covered by existingguidelines. The Protocol confirms the responsibility ofthe principal superintendent of education and thetrustee in providing advice, direction, or decisionmaking on parents’ concerns. It also outlines clearaction steps for parents. When parents direct theirconcerns to the director of education or to centraloffice supervisory officers, they will be assessed forappropriate action or redirection.

TrusteesTrustees are your elected representatives to the Board.For the telephone number of the trustee in your area,call 416-393-8809, 416-397-3061, or 416-397-3063,or visit the TDSB web site at www.tdsb.on.ca, select the“About Us” button and on the right of the screen clickon “Wards and Trustees.”


4


www.tdsb.on.ca: Your One-Stop Source forTDSB Information

Information about the TDSB’s schools,programs, and services is easily accessibleon our web site at wwwwww..ttddssbb..oonn..ccaa. Uniquefeatures of the web site include schoolprofiles that outline program offerings,province-wide reading, writing, andmathematics test results, and studentdemographics at each TDSB school; anadvanced map interface to our schoolboundaries; a home page that features latebreaking news as it happens; a specificpage for Parents that highlights key topics,an improved search engine to help you findwhat you’re looking for; and much more.

Child CareThe TDSB works in partnership with more than 300childcare centres housed in its schools to supportchildren, parents, families, and communities. ChildCare programs are licensed, regulated, legalcorporations operating under the Provincial DayNurseries Act, Ministry of Children and Youth Services,and further regulated by Children’s Services, the Cityof Toronto, and Toronto Public Health. Most childcarecentres have an agreement with the City of Toronto to accept families who qualify for a fee subsidy.

To locate a program in your area, use our on-linechildcare finder at www.tdsb.on.ca, select “Find YourSchool” then select the “Child Care Finder” button.Select the age of the child and click on the area of thecity in which you live to find schools providing childcare. For further information, please call 416-394-2072or 416-394-7369.

Keeping InformedThroughout the year, you may receive a newsletter thatprovides key information about your school, specialevents, and more. As well, the principal,superintendent, trustee, and/or director of educationmay periodically send letters home to parents aboutissues of importance to your child’s education, yourschool, and community.

Comprehensive information about services at the TDSBis easily accessible on-line on our web site atwww.tdsb.on.ca.

OURWEB SITE


4


Student and Parent Learning Support (cont.)

Alternative SchoolsTDSB alternative schools offer students and parents analternative to mainstream schooling. Each alternativeschool, whether elementary or secondary, has a distinctidentity and approach to curriculum delivery along witha strong volunteer commitment from parents and othercommunity members. Each school varies in enrollment,age groups, and grade levels.

For more information on admissions and programs atthe schools, visit the TDSB web site at wwwwww..ttddssbb..oonn..ccaa,in the menu click on “Alternative Schools.”

Student Agendas/PlannersTDSB schools use agendas/planners to help studentskeep track of their assignments, plan ahead, and toinform parents of daily and weekly work progress. Theplanners also include information customized for thestudent’s school as well as Board-wide informationsuch as the school year calendar, code of on-lineconduct, and more.

Students are strongly encouraged to purchase aplanner. It may be provided as part of the annualschool activity fee. For more information, contactyour child’s school.

Volunteering atYour Child’s SchoolAs communities make a difference in people’s lives, socan you at your child’s school by volunteering your timeand expertise. Parents are welcomed in schools and theclassroom to supplement teacher support of studentneeds. Your child’s school may have a variety ofclassroom positions available, including helping a childin one-on-one reading, in a computer lab, in art class,in the library reading to students or shelving books, orhelping outside the classroom by chaperoning dances,assisting with the yearbook project, or accompanyingclasses on field trips. Your involvement is welcome! To help guard our students’ safety, volunteers are askedto undergo a confidential police reference check.

For information on how you can volunteer, pleasecontact your local school principal.

Extracurricular ActivitiesSchool is more than academic subjects. TDSB schoolshave a wide variety of extracurricular activities run byteachers who volunteer their time to the students,either during lunch hour or before and after school.Participating in clubs and on teams exposes studentsto different and new activities, brings them togetherwith peers who hold similar interests, rounds outtheir education, and makes their school experiencemore vital.

Encourage your children to investigate the manyextracurricular activities available at their school. Manyof the clubs are cost-free. Others may require fees forequipment. Check with your school for details.


4


PARTNERSHIPSThe TDSB welcomes partnerships with private individuals, groups, organizations, andcompanies that enhance students’ education and learning resources.

Business Development is the first point of contact for those wanting to enter intoentrepreneurial partnerships, to make donations or sponsorships, or to seek businessopportunities with the Board. As well, the department acts as a resource for parentcouncils, schools, staff, and trustees and supports fundraising activities and sponsorshipsboth inside and outside the Board. The department also answers questions about theBoard’s fundraising and advertising policies and procedures through our ParentFundraising Hotline as well as the distribution of materials from outside of the Board.

Parent Fundraising Hotline: 416-397-3510Business Development : 416-397-3509E-mail: [email protected]

Partnership Development facilitates partnerships that provide expanded opportunities forstudent success. Educational partnerships are ongoing, mutually beneficial relationshipsbetween schools and community organizations, business, labour, and institutions.Partnership programs increase learning resources through tutors, mentors, guest speakers,workshops, field trips, presentations, and scholarships. Educational partnership activitiesthat focus on enhancements to curriculum build stronger, caring school communities.Partnership stories can be viewed on the TDSB’s public web site.

Take your educational partnership idea and suggestions to your school council.

For more information, contact:Educational Partnerships: 416-397-3340E-mail: [email protected]

PARTNERSHIPS


4


Student and Parent Learning Support

Alternative ProgramsAlternative programs reach out primarily to students 12to 16 years of age who are struggling both academicallyand in finding a positive sense of direction for thefuture. Their past performance shows they are capableof academic success, however, their lack of successmay be linked to personal, family, or social problems orother events in their lives.

Alternative programs are positive transition programsrather than an alternative path to attaining high schoolgraduation. Each program aims to return students tothe regular home school setting with a focused andpositive sense of direction and a set of skills to helpthem be successful, or to pursue other educational orcareer opportunities. They do not offer a full academicprogram for students but focus on core subject areas,literacy and numeracy, completion or attainment ofsubject-specific credits, and life skills, personal, andsocial skills development.

There are alternative programs for elementary andsecondary students on long-term suspensions orlimited expulsions. These programs can help a studentreturn to a regular school setting by addressing conflictresolution, anger management, and feelings ofhostility. These programs help students and schools byproviding a proactive and preventative support forsome students. The TDSB is also a partner in two of theprovincially funded demonstration programs for fullyexpelled students. Known as the Strict DisciplineSchool Programs for Expelled Students, these programshelp students meet the criteria for a successful returnto the school system.

Alternative Programs also provide opportunities forstudents who have been excused from regular dailyschool attendance through the SALEP process(Supervised Alternative Learning for Excused Pupils).These programs provide flexible scheduling andattendance options on an individualized basis.

Remedial SupportThe TDSB has remedial help available for students atdifferent stages of their education. At the elementarylevel, remedial programs, peer tutors, and homeworkclubs are offered. Talk to your child’s teacher andprincipal for more information.

The After-School Literacy and Numeracy programoffered by the Continuing Education departmentsupports students in grades 7 to 12. The teachers focuson literacy and numeracy skills and concepts which willhelp at-risk students succeed in the regular day schoolclassroom. For more information, speak to your schoolguidance staff.

Secondary Summer School Credit programs offered bythe Continuing Education department are for studentswho earned a final mark between 35 and 49 percent ina course. For more information about remedial summercredit programs, speak to your school guidance staff.


4


Remedial Support

Library and LearningResourcesTDSB school libraries provide a specialized, curriculum-related program of information literacy instruction anda collection of print and electronic educationalresources. A wide variety of books, magazines, andmedia are carefully selected to support studentlearning, research, technological skills, communication,and pleasure reading. Students also have access to

on-line encyclopaedias, periodical databases,electronic books (e-books), spoken stories, and qualityweb links anytime at home and school through acomprehensive school library web site: for elementarygo to;wwwwww..ttddssbb..oonn..ccaa//lliibbrraarriieess//LLiinnkkss..aasspp??sscchhoooollNNoo==1100and for secondary go to;wwwwww..ttddssbb..oonn..ccaa//lliibbrraarriieess//LLiinnkkss..aasspp??sscchhoooollNNoo==99.Your school’s teacher-librarian can supply homepasswords for on-line resources and explain moreabout your child’s school library program.

HOMEWORK TIPSHomework and parental involvement are keyparts to a student’s academic success.Staying up-to-date on homework assignmentshelps students retain knowledge learned inthe classroom. Research also shows thatstudents do better when parents participatein their child’s education.

The TDSB provides resources and assistancein various forms to both students and parentsto help them succeed.

On-Line LessonsA number of learning activities for English andmathematics are available for elementarystudents, grades 1 to 8. These on-lineactivities offer three days of lessons and areavailable as PDF files. You can downloadthese lessons at www.tdsb.on.ca. Select the“Parents” button, then “Homework Tips.”

Extra HelpMany TDSB schools have remedial programs,peer tutors, or homework clubs. Talk to your

child’s teacher and principal. Many secondaryschools offer extra help in skills labs and atlunchtime or after school.

Study Tips• Praise and encourage your children in their

work. Talk to your children about what theyare learning in school.

• Read together with younger children.• Let your children help you in writing recipes,

letters, shopping lists, and readingnewspapers.

• Encourage your children to ask the teacherfor help if they find the work difficult orconfusing.

• Set a consistent time when homework willbe done every night. Check that homeworkis completed. Provide a quiet place awayfrom distractions such as television,telephone, and computer.

• Have your children practise mathematics,reading, and writing skills daily.

• Keep in touch with the teachers and callwhen you have questions or concerns.

HOMEWORKTIPS


5


Special Education

Special EducationThe TDSB, through its Special Education department, iscommitted to active and meaningful collaboration withstudents, parents/guardians, schools, and agencies toensure that all students’ special learning needs are metin the most inclusionary environment possible, in themost equitably resourced programs possible.

The TDSB offers a wide-ranging level of specialeducation support and services. The needs of mostschool-aged children and youth can be effectively metwithin their neighbourhoods and through regularattendance in local schools. Some students do requiresmall, specialized settings called Intensive SupportPrograms, which offer programs specific to thestudents' needs. As well, there are conditions where achild or youth’s social, emotional, behavioural, and/ormedical needs require the individual to be placed in atreatment facility. These programs are under theumbrella of Section Programs.

The TDSB has established a Special Education AdvisoryCommittee (SEAC) in accordance with the EducationAct. SEAC makes recommendations to the Boardconcerning any matter affecting the establishment,development, and delivery of Special Educationprograms and services. The TDSB and SEAC worktogether to protect the rights of students with speciallearning needs. The members of SEAC representstudents with exceptionalities and have theopportunity to participate in the annual reviews of theBoard’s Special Education Plan and the Board’s annualbudget process as it relates to special education.

For more information regarding specific SpecialEducation programs, please visit our web site atwww.tdsb.on.ca, click on “Programs,” scroll down themenu and click on “Special Education.” Or, contactyour local school or the Special Education departmentin your area:

Marilyn Lowe, Supervising Principal South East 416-396-4984

Catherine Huycke, Supervising Principal North East 416-396-9003

Stephanie Williams, Supervising Principal South West 416-394-3763

Jane Cooper-Eade, Supervising Principal North West 416-394-7406

Leslie Milne, Supervising Principal Section 23 Programs 416-395-2291


5


Support Services include Psychology, Social Work &Attendance, Speech/Language Pathology, andOccupational Therapy/Physiotherapy. These servicesprovide ongoing support to “at-risk” students in theclassroom with the goal of improving these students’educational outcomes. Specifically they:

Support students’ classroom programs by:• assisting teachers in understanding the special needs

of students• supporting students in accessing the curriculum • linking programming suggestions and/or

recommendations to curriculum expectations• providing individual and group counselling

Support Board programs by:• providing Crisis Response counselling to schools• consulting to a wide variety of Special Education

programs• providing direct service to exceptional students and

their families• providing information for the Identification,

Placement, and Review Committee (IPRC) process• acting as liaison to community-based services and

agencies• providing professional development for TDSB staff

Support Services


5


Support Services (cont.)

For more information regarding Support Services, please visit our web site at wwwwww..ttddssbb..oonn..ccaa,

click on “Programs,” scroll down the menu and click on “Special Education” and/or contact your

local school or the appropriate person below for your specific area or location:

PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES:Paul Legzdins, Chief, South East 416-396-4997

Dr. Ruth Baumal, Chief, North East 416-396-8459

Dr. Carolyn Lennox, Chief, South West 416-394-3904

Dr. Paul O’Connell, Chief, North West 416-394-7402

SOCIAL WORK & ATTENDANCE SERVICES:Mark Dooner, Chief, South East 416-396-7935

Frank Orlando, Chief, North East 416-396-3400

Harvey Nageberg, Chief, South West 416-394-3967

Marcia Powers-Dunlop, Chief, North West 416-394-3388

SPEECH/LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY SERVICES:David Haffner, Chief, East 416-396-7983

Sharon McWhirter, Chief, West 416-394-7400

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY/PHYSICAL THERAPYAnne Ricci, Chief 416-394-7351


Checkpoints 6


Student Assessment, Evaluation,and ReportingThe primary purpose of student assessment and evaluation isto improve learning for all students. The process of assessmentidentifies a student’s areas of strength, and informs both thestudent and parents where additional support andencouragement are required. It is an important part of theregular communication between schools and families throughthe academic year. Evaluation of student progress occursthroughout the year, usually at the end of a unit of study. Formalreporting of student achievement occurs at certain times in theyear through the use of the Ontario provincial report card.

Report CardsKindergartenReporting on the progress of kindergarten children occurs inNovember or December, in March, and in June. Information isbased on the teacher’s observation of each child’s personal andsocial development in terms of positive attitude, independenceand responsibility, as well as problem solving, task completion,and decision-making ability. The kindergarten report cards alsohighlight the child’s development in language, mathematics,science and technology, health and physical activity, and thearts based on the kindergarten program expectations.

Grades 1 to 8Each child will receive a report card three times per year, usuallyin early December, late March, and late June. Grades or marksare based on a student’s demonstration of learning in relationto expectations outlined in the Ontario curriculum. A separatesection for reporting on the student’s overall demonstration oflearning skills is also included. The learning skills are assessedacross all subject areas, and in other behaviour at school, suchas initiative, homework completion, and conflict resolution.Parents are encouraged to talk to their child’s teacher forcomplete learning skills and achievement details.

SecondaryUsually non-semestered secondary schools report to parentsthree times per year and semestered schools report four times

per year. Many secondary schools also send home interimreport cards within the first eight to ten weeks of the yearand/or semester. For more information, parents are encouragedto talk to their child’s principal or guidance counsellor.

Parent/Teacher ConferenceThe parent-teacher conference is the most important time forparents to discuss their child’s progress in school. Inelementary schools, days are set aside during the school yearspecifically for parent-teacher conferences at a timeimmediately following the distribution of report cards. Insecondary schools, the parent-teacher conferences occur eitherafter the interim report or after the midsemester report. Parentscan also ask for an interview at any time during the school yearby calling their child’s school directly.

EQAOEducation Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) assessmentsare provincially mandated for students in grades 3, 6, 9, and 10and are designed to get a province-wide look at how students areperforming in reading, writing, and mathematics. Parents receive areport of their child’s results following the assessment. Thisinformation helps parents and educators identify where studentscan benefit from extra support and encouragement.

EQAO assessments for the 2008–2009 school year will take placeon the following dates:• Grade 9 Assessments of Mathematics (first-semester students):

January 7 to 22, 2010• Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test: April 8, 2010• Primar y Division (Grade 3) and Junior Division (Grade 6)

Assessments of Reading, Writing and Mathematics:May 31 to June 11, 2010

• Grade 9 Assessment of Mathematics (second-semester and full-year students): June 3 to 18, 2010

For more information, including frequently asked questions, please call EQAO at 1-888-327-7377, visit their web site atwww.eqao.com, or call Organizational Development/ Research and Information Services at 416-394-7404.


Moving Up7


Preparing to Move UpOne of the significant milestones in a child’s life is themove from elementary to secondary school. Studentsmay feel both excited and nervous about what, forthem, is a large step. As they look forward to theincreased freedom and choices that secondary schoolpresents, they may worry about making friends, fittingin, increased homework, time management, andgetting lost in a new school. Parents, students, andschool staff can work together to help make the moveless stressful and give students a successful start insecondary school.

What Parents Can DoParental involvement is critical to a student’ssuccessful transition from elementary to secondaryschool.• Keep the lines of communication open. Listen for

what excites or worries your children about the moveto the secondary level. Give them the time to t alkabout what excites them and what they are learningfrom it. When your child appears worried, forinstance about making new friends, ask the child torecount a similar situation in the past and how he orshe dealt with it. Could the child use the same skillsin this new situation? Children need to see that theyalready have many of the skills needed to handlemost of their concerns.

• Act as a source of information for your children.Attend parent information evenings at theelementary school, open houses and informationevenings at the secondary school, or meet with theelementary guidance counsellor and ask questionsimportant to your child and yourself.

• Inform yourselves about the secondary school theywill be attending. Help your child become familiarwith secondary school life by attending music nightsor school performances at the secondary school.

An excellent resource for students and parents toaccess school information is the TDSB web site atwww.tdsb.on.ca. Click on “Find Your School.”

What Students Can DoStudents generally begin exploring the secondaryschool program in grade 8, however, planning for thetransition to secondary school sooner may help thembe better prepared.• Beginning in grade 7, students have an opportunity

to set academic, social, and career-related goals forthe year.

• Students who are concerned about increasedworkload can ease their transition into secondaryschool by speaking to their guidance counsellors orteachers about study skills programs. Students canalso access study skills and homework help onvarious web sites such as the Ontario SchoolCounsellors’ Association at www.osca.ca or the TVO web site at www.ilc.org and click on “Ask ATeacher!”

• For students wishing to attend secondary schoolswith specialized programs such as the arts, math,science, or computers, it is recommended that theyresearch the entry requirements into these programsbefore grade 8, and work toward them. Students areencouraged to speak with guidance counsellors andattend open houses with their parents for moreinformation.

• Students should reflect on or have a discussionabout other significant transitions (grade to grade or school to school) and think about the skills theyused to make the change as smooth as possible.


7


Schools to FutureSee the Future Now!

In the Toronto District School Board, it is our sharedbelief that student success is dependent on a safe,caring, inclusive learning environment where weverystudent feels valued. In addition to academicimprovement, the TDSB continues to focus on thesocial, physidal and emotional development of ourstudents. Much of this starts with teaching our studentsabout the value of character - respecting themselvesand each other, making positive contrigutions to theirschool and community, thinking critically andcreatively. By supporting the heart and art of teachingand learning in our classrooms, hallways, and ourcommunities, we are nurturing the joy of learning.

As we develop our leaders of tomorrow, we are alsodeveloping our leaders of today. A variety ofexperiences that involve career awareness, characterdevelopment, experiential learning, and involvementwith colleages, universities, and workplaces, allow ourstudents to see their future now. A future that mayinclude school, work, college, university, and/orapprenticeship, but more importantly a future ofcontinuous learning, positive contributions to society,and personal and professional fulfilment.

Remember:

• All pathways are equally important - college, university, apprenticeship and workplace.

• Understand that each individual has a unique learning style.

• Encourage individuals to identify and cultivate their strengths and interests.

• Effort and developing effective learning habits areessential in all pathways.

• Resources are available to assist in discovering more about pathways.

• Community involvement and Cooperative Education programs are great ways to explore interests and gain work experience.


7


Moving Up (cont.)

Earning Your Ontario SecondarySchool Diploma (OSSD)

Ontario SecondarySchool Diploma (OSSD)Ontario’s Secondary School program is based on a creditsystem. To obtain a secondary school diploma (OSSD),students must earn a total of 30 credits (one credit is earnedfor each 110-hour course successfully completed),

complete the literacy requirement, and complete 40 hours ofcommunity involvement.

Eighteen of the credits must come from a list of compulsorysubjects that every student must take. The remaining 12credits are optional, earned in courses that the student maychoose for him or herself from those available at the school.

In grade 9, most students will take eight courses during theschool year.

ONTARIO SECONDARY SCHOOL DIPLOMA(OSSD) Requirements

18 Compulsory Credits∑• 4 credits in English* ∑• 3 credits in mathematics∑• 2 credits in science ∑• 1 credit in Canadian history∑• 1 credit in Canadian geography∑• 1 credit in the arts∑• 1 credit in health and physical education ∑• 1 credit in French as a second language ∑• 0.5 credit in career studies∑• 0.5 credit in civics

PLUS∑• 1 additional credit in English, or French as a second

language, or a Native language, or a classical or aninternational language, or social sciences and thehumanities, or Canadian and world studies, orguidance and career education, or cooperativeeducation**

∑• 1 additional credit in health and physicaleducation, or the arts, or business studies, orcooperative education**

∑• 1 additional credit in science, or technologicaleducation, or cooperative education**

IInn aaddddiittiioonn ttoo tthhee ccoommppuullssoorryy ccrreeddiittss,, ssttuuddeennttss mmuussttccoommpplleettee

∑12 optional credits*** ∑40 hours of community involvement activities∑The provincial literacy requirement

*A maximum of 3 credits in English as a secondlanguage (ESL) or English literacy development(ELD) may be counted towards the 4 compulsorycredits in English, but the fourth must be a creditearned for a Grade 12 compulsory English course.

**A maximum of 2 credits in cooperative educationcan count as compulsory credits.

***May include up to four credits achieved throughapproved Dual Credit courses.

OSSD

SCHOOL MATTERS: A Parent’s Guide to the TDSB27


7


Apprenticeship and OYAPStudents who participate in Cooperative Education inan apprenticeable trade are able to participate in theOntario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) whilethey are still in secondary school. This program allowsthem to start working on post-secondaryapprenticeship qualifications right away.

OYAP starts in Grade 11 or Grade 12 through theCooperative Education program. Students in theToronto District School Board (TDSB)_haveopportunities to become registered apprentices andwork toward becoming certified journeypersons in askilled trade while completing their secondary schooldiplomas.

Admission RequirementsTo be eligible for OYAP, a student must:• be at least 16 years of age and in either Grade 11 or

Grade 12 • have successfully completed at least 16 credits• be registered as a full-time student

• be working toward the completion of all OSSD requirements

• be interested in a specific skilled profession as a future career pathway

Contact the cooperative education teacher, guidancecounselor, technological studies teacher, or OYAPrepresentative at your local school for moreinformation. Parents with questions, please call416-394-7182.

Cooperative EducationYour child has the opportunity to combine academicstudy with practical experience in business andindustry. Through cooperative education placements,students develop the work habits, attitudes, and jobskills necessary for a successful transition from schoolto the workplace or post-secondary education.Students also earn credits toward an OSSD bysuccessfully demonstrating course expectations in theworkplace. Cooperative education credits can be tied to

any related secondary school course that students are studying or that they have successfully completed. Now up to two cooperative education credits can counttoward the compulsory credits for an OSSD. Studentscan choose from a wide variety of placements that willhelp them make decisions about future educationaland career paths. Students are regularly monitored andassessed in the workplace by a co-op teacher. For moreinformation, talk to your school’s cooperative educationteacher or guidance counsellor.

BOARD SCHOLARSHIPSThe TDSB currently has approximately 800scholarships available to its students.Many of these scholarships are awardedto graduating students based uponmeeting established criteria. Parents andstudents interested in scholarship criteriaand other details should call their localschool.For information on establishing newscholarships, please contact Scholarshipsand Trust at 416-395-8242 or416-395-8006.


Moving Up (cont.)7


Student LeadershipSchool is more than core curriculum and classroominstruction—it is an occasion for students to growsocially, get involved, and develop leadership skills.They should be encouraged to investigate opportunitiesand participate in their school’s many associations,whether it be student politics, promoting equity,stopping violence, or cleaning the environment.

TDSB students contribute their voices to the educationsystem through Student Councils, Area StudentCouncils, the TDSB Student SuperCouncil, and on theBoard itself through student trustees. More informationon our student leaders can be found on the web site atwww.tdsb.on.ca. Select “Students,” then click on theStudent SuperCouncil logo. Or, you can [email protected].

Driver EducationThe Toronto District School Board’s competitively pricedDriver Education program is certified by the Ministry ofTransportation of Ontario. Graduates of the programmeet the requirements for insurance discounts and can take the G1 road test after eight months instead of one year.

Our curriculum is taught by experienced, qualifiedinstructors. TDSB Driver Education classes are offeredto students and to the general public. Participants mustbe at least 16 years of age and have a G1 licence inorder to enrol in the TDSB program.

Courses operate after school, in the evenings, and onSaturdays throughout the year, at convenient sitesacross the city. As well, intensive one-week classes areoffered during March Break and the summer.

For more information about dates and locationsof courses, please visit our web site atwww.drivered.tdsb.on.ca or call our information line at 416-397-3309.


8


Learning For Life

ContinuingEducationThe Continuing EducationDepartment provides elementary,secondary and adult programmingto more than 160,000 learners eachyear.

Programs include the following:

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SSeeccoonnddaarryy CCrreeddiitt PPrrooggrraammss (NightSchool and Summer School)provides adolescent and adultstudents with an opportunity toearn credits after school and duringthe summer.wwwwww..CCrreeddiittPPrrooggrraammss..ccaa

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Explore opportunities open to alladults 18 years of age and older.For more information about ourprograms please visit our web siteat www.tdsb.on.ca/coned, or call416-338-4000.

Virtual SchoolThe TDSB Virtual School providesstudents with quality education in aflexible and collaborativeenvironment, enhancing theirability to develop knowledge, skills,and attitudes that are critical forsuccess in an information-basedsociety. The TDSB Virtual Schooloffers students on-line access to:• credit courses• tutorials• curriculum support materials• certification programs• an on-line library• a Virtual Guidance Centre• a Virtual Career Centre

Students enrolled in on-line creditcourses work on-line with a teacher.Chat groups, threaded discussions,and conferencing are also availableto support learning. Registrationinstructions and semester dates areavailable atwww.tdsbvirtualschool.com/.


Learning For Life (cont.)8


Adult Day SchoolsTDSB adult day schools offer credit courses for adultswho want to complete their high school diploma,prepare for post-secondary education, or gain job-related training. Schools feature supportive staff andflexible services and programs. Courses are offered atthe following sites:

• Burnhamthorpe Adult Learning Centre, 500 The EastMall, 416-394-7130

• City Adult Learning Centre (CALC), 1 DanforthAvenue, 416-393-9759

• Emery Adult Learning Centre, 3395 Weston Road, 416-395-3225

• Scarborough Centre for Alternative Studies (Adults), 939 Progress Avenue,416-396-6921

• Yorkdale Adult Learning Centre, 38 Orfus Road, 416-395-4417

For more information about adult day schools go towww.tdsb.on.ca and click on the “Schools” link.

Community Use of SchoolFacilities–PermitsThe TDSB makes many of its facilities and fieldsavailable for groups and organizations outside of theschool day and encourages community use of itsschools, within prescribed policies and guidelines.

Permits are required for such use and fees will becharged according to an established schedule.Individuals and groups may apply for permits on a one-time or multi-use basis, depending upon theavailability of the facility or field and availabilityof caretaking staff and/or other Board approvedpersonnel.

For further information, please visit the TDSB publicweb site at www.tdsb.on.ca/permits, or contact thePermits Unit at 416-395-7666.


September 2009 - TDSB School Websites

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