Ajax High School

DENSA Hosts an Engaging Community Night

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 19:30:00 GMT

To wrap up the month of November, in a dazzling celebration of culture, tradition, and community, the Durham Educators' Network for South Asians (DENSA) hosted an inspiring event during Hindu Heritage Month. The evening, filled with colour, rhythm, and flavors, brought together students, educators, and community members to celebrate the richness of South Asia and the Hindu heritage.

The event featured traditional dances performed by students of all age groups, showcasing the beauty and artistry of Hindu culture. Attendees were captivated by these dynamic performances, which highlighted the vibrancy and diversity of Hindu traditions.

Interactive learning experiences offered guests the opportunity to explore various aspects of culture, including the ancient practice of Yoga. Participants engaged in hands-on activities and insightful discussions that deepened their understanding of their own identities.

Guests also enjoyed networking opportunities, connecting with students, educators, and community members in an atmosphere of celebration and inclusivity. Traditional cuisine, including flavourful samosas and aromatic chai tea, added to the warmth of the evening, inviting everyone to savor the tastes of South Asian culture.

“This event was a wonderful way to highlight the richness of our South Asian heritage and traditions while fostering meaningful connections across cultures,” said Krrisha Gnanachchandran, Co-Chair of DENSA. “It was heartening to see such a vibrant turnout, with so many coming together to celebrate the contributions and heritage of our community.”

DENSA’s event exemplified the spirit of creating a space for learning, appreciation, and unity among the South Asian culture and heritage.

For more information about DENSA and its initiatives, please contact densaddsb@gmail.com or visit https://densa.ca/.

About That Cut

Tue, 15 Oct 2019 13:30:00 GMT

Join us at G.L. Roberts CVI on November 4^th, where barbers will share, inspire, and Ignite Learning with students and members of the haircare industry. The event will include presentations and demonstrations from industry leaders.

This is a free event and seating is limited. Interested students, teachers, industry members, and school/community partners can sign up here: https://sites.google.com/ddsb.ca/aboutthatcut2019.

Showcase & Conference

Event: About That Cut

Date: November 4, 2019 (rescheduled from October 7, 2019)

Time: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Location: G.L. Roberts CVI, 399 Chaleur Avenue, Oshawa, ON

Audience: DDSB students, industry members, Durham Hairstylist Academy and more.

Preferred
Media Time: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm

Arrangements can be made in advance or on-site for interviews and/or photo opportunities.

Islamic Heritage Month 2020

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 17:45:00 GMT

5 Questions with DDSB Staff Author Nikki Soliman

Thu, 05 May 2022 14:00:00 GMT

The Durham District School Board (DDSB) is home to many diverse, skilled, talented, and creative staff across the District. This multi-part “5 Questions With…” series will highlight the success that DDSB staff have achieved in a variety of industries.

Nikki (Nicole) Soliman is the Vice Principal at Scott Central Public School in Sandford. In March of this year, Nikki published her first children’s book titled Bubbly Beth, about an Anishinaabe girl who loves all kinds of bubbles. After Beth gets trapped in a bubble, she floats away over her house, her school, the park, and the lake. Beth embarks on an exciting adventure, meeting new animal friends along the way, and learns about the importance of teamwork and friendship. A cross-curricular resource guide to support educators utilizing Bubbly Beth in their lesson plans is also in the works.

We spoke with Nikki about publishing her first children’s book, her creative process, and hopes for the future.

Q. What inspired your book Bubbly Beth?

Bubbly Beth came to me one night as I was trying to sleep. I kept tossing and turning and ideas kept coming. I tried to ignore them, but something told me to go and write them down. Finally, I got up and wrote them down in the hopes to get a couple hours of sleep. When my husband woke, I told him about the story, and he asked me to read it to him. He said he liked it and thought that I should publish it. I started looking into the publishing process and the rest is history.

I created the book with educators and children from 0-8 years old in mind, but Bubbly Beth can be enjoyed by anyone. It was difficult for me to find books that just happened to have characters who were Indigenous and did not have to do with being Indigenous or residential schools, pow wows, medicine wheels etc. I wanted Indigenous representation in books so that self-identified students can see themselves in the resources.

Q. What message do you hope audiences take with them after reading Bubbly Beth?

The main purpose of this book is to fill the void of books with Indigenous representation so that Indigenous and non-Indigenous students can see Indigenous people normalized in the resources. Bubbly Beth showcases some of the Ojibway language and supports the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) calls to action as it includes authentic voice, Indigenous resources, and perspectives in the curriculum. Bubbly Beth also supports character education and cultural values as it teaches about teamwork, kindness, and cooperation.

The accompanying cross-curricular resource guide that will be available soon supports educators in lesson planning around all aspects of the curriculum. After reading Bubbly Beth, I would like students to walk away with a little bit of the language, the cultural values around teamwork, kindness, cooperation and sharing, and a chance to see an Indigenous person having a fun adventure just being themselves.

Q. Do you have any tips for aspiring authors or illustrators who are considering publishing their work?

Do not be afraid to send your manuscripts to various publishing companies, learn the difference between traditional, hybrid, and self-publishing contracts, know your "why", and take a chance.

Q. What’s next for you in the world of storytelling?

I am waiting for my next books to be published. Ants in my Pants, Magnificent Magnetic Me (with accompanying teacher's guide), and Indig-Enough are currently in progress with GoodMinds.com. GoodMinds is a First Nations family-owned business that sells First Nations, Métis, and Inuit educational resources and products.

Q. Where can people go to learn more about you and your work?

To learn more about me and my book Bubbly Beth, you can visit lilbirdbooks.ca. My upcoming books are available for pre-order and can be found under the “Children's Books” tab or by typing my name into the search bar at GoodMinds.com.

Rescheduled Professional Activity Day in April 2024

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 21:00:00 GMT

The Durham District School Board announced today the rescheduling of an upcoming Professional Activity Day originally set for Friday, April 19. The new date for the PA Day is Monday, April 8.

This decision comes in light of a solar eclipse anticipated to occur around dismissal time on Monday, April 8. The rescheduling is a precautionary measure aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of students.

The rescheduled PA Day will continue to offer valuable opportunities for professional development for teachers and staff.

The Durham District School Board (DDSB) is responsible for public education in the rural communities of Uxbridge, Brock and Scugog townships and the cities and towns of Ajax, Whitby, Pickering and Oshawa. We employ over 10,000 teaching and educational services staff in 135 elementary and secondary schools and learning centres. DDSB has more than 79,000 regular day students and thousands more who take continuing education and adult credit courses.More information can be found on the DDSB’s website at ddsb.ca. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @ddsbschools, Instagram @ddsbschools and YouTube at DurhamDSB.

10 Additional DDSB 3D Printers Provided to Help Frontline Healthcare Workers

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 14:15:00 GMT

UPDATE April 30, 2020: The DDSB has contributed another 10 3D printers to support this community effort and the valuable contributions being made by our frontline health care workers.

Originally Released: April 20, 2020

_____________

DDSB Provides 3D Printers to Help Frontline Healthcare Workers

DDSB teacher and Sinclair Secondary School alumnus are producing face shields for frontline healthcare workers

Supporting frontline healthcare workers and helping to keep our community safe during the COVID-19 pandemic is very important to the Durham District School Board (DDSB) and teacher Julia Matys. In addition to DDSB’s recent donation of over 158,000 pieces of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to Lakeridge Health, we recently joined forces with community organizations to create face shields for frontline healthcare workers in Durham Region.

“The DDSB is proud to help support Durham Region’s frontline workers as they selflessly and tirelessly make sacrifices to keep all of us safe and healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic,” says Chris Braney, Chair of the Durham District School Board. “We are all working together to support students and families and we are delighted that our contribution can make a positive impact and hopefully save lives.”

Matys is a Grade 5 teacher at Carruthers Creek Public School and she wanted to fulfil her civic responsibility to help during the pandemic. She heard about the face shield initiative and she decided to get involved. In doing so, she recruited her son Matthew, a Sinclair Secondary School alumnus who is currently an engineer at Ontario Power Generation, to help using his 3D printer.

She reached out to DDSB staff for support and is now using two 3D printers on loan from Sinclair Secondary School. The printers were dropped off last Thursday and now the pair are busy printing headbands for face shields and making a difference.

Community Printing Team

“Giving back to the community in which I have lived for 30 years makes me feel proud to call Whitby my home, my community and my family,” Matys says. “We are stronger together and helping each other during this global pandemic is a civic responsibility that I take seriously. There is no greater feeling than being able to use the knowledge and resources at our disposal to ultimately protect our frontline workers while saving lives of others.”

Kim Brookes and her partner John Vanderlinde started the project with two 3D printers, and on March 27^th they delivered six face shields to a hospital in Bowmanville. By the end of the first week, they had completed 150 face shields. With the help of community organizations and others such as the DDSB, the Durham Catholic District School Board, law firm Jane Conte & Associates, and the towns of Ajax and Whitby, to date they’ve delivered more than 1000 pieces to help protect frontline healthcare workers across the Durham Region.

“We have been working to fill a void. Our goal is to help our frontline healthcare to do their job to help us and they need PPE to do that,” Brookes says. “We will keep printing until they are supplied with the resources they need.”

DDSB Sporting Equipment and Structures are CLOSED

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 14:15:00 GMT

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all sporting equipment and structures, including playgrounds, outdoor tracks and basketball courts on DDSB property are CLOSED for use.

More info...

Life Beyond High School Event

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 19:15:00 GMT

Have you wondered about resources available for students with special education needs?

Let us assist in connecting you with programs, supports and services across the Durham Region.

Wednesday, November 5, 2025 • 6:00- 8:30 pm
Durham District School Board Education Centre 400 Taunton Rd. E. Whitby, ON
Meet and greet with community agencies such as Developmental Services Ontario, Ontario Disability Support Program, Canopy Support Services and more!

For more information, please contact:

Ashley Romano, ashley.romano@ddsb.ca, Braden Sherwood, braden.sherwood@ddsb.ca or Sade Gbalajobi, folashade.gbalajobi@ddsb.ca

PRESENTED BY:

Transition Coordinators, Superintendent & System Leads Inclusive Student Services

Weekly Memo 30 Oct -3 Nov

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 13:00:00 GMT

Please find the weekly Memo.

School Bus Cancellations: Thursday, February 23, 2023 - All Zones

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 11:00:00 GMT

Durham Student Transportation Services have cancelled buses in all zones, due to road conditions resulting from inclement weather.

Busses will not operate in Zone 1,2,3 or 4 in the morning or in the afternoon. All schools remain open.

Students and families can find a list of schools within each weather zone by visiting the Durham Student Transportation Services (DSTS) website or by clicking the links below.

Message to Families About Changes to School in January due to the Provincewide Shutdown

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 01:30:00 GMT

Message to Families About Changes to School in January due to the Provincewide Shutdown

Earlier today, the Ministry of Education announced the closure of in-person schools to students following the winter break in accordance with the Provincewide Shutdown to help stop the spread of COVID-19.

In-person elementary students will return to in-person learning on Monday, January 11, 2021. In-person secondary students will return to in-person learning on Monday, January 25, 2021.

All elementary and secondary students will be learning virtually during the period that in-person schools are closed. We recognize that this shutdown will have a detrimental impact on many families that we serve and our goal is to support children through what may be an unsettling time.

Please read the messages that have been sent to families on Monday, December 21, 2020:

Elementary Message to Families

Secondary Message to Families

Message to Durham Continuing Education Students

DASS Secures Tree Canada Grant

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 20:45:00 GMT

Durham Alternative Secondary School (DASS) has taken a significant step toward enhancing its campus and honouring its commitment to environmental stewardship. The school recently applied for and was awarded a prestigious Greening Canada’s School Grounds grant from Tree Canada, a national non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of Canadians by planting and nurturing trees.

Being a central, urban, ecologically stressed site following several expansions and with significant natural tree loss over the past 75 years, this grant supports the restoration and revitalization of the school’s greenspace. The primary goal of the DASS Oshawa project was to involve students in the restoration of the above ground biomass on their campus using tree and shrub planting to strengthen students’ awareness, involvement, and technical skills. This has added to the enhancements already in progress by the school’s Grade 11 Green Industries class.

The initiative aligns with the Durham District School Board's (DDSB) land acknowledgement and commitment to Indigenous education. By prioritizing the revitalization, DASS is embracing a philosophy of "giving back to the land," which resonates deeply with Indigenous teachings and perspectives. This project not only beautifies the schoolgrounds but also fosters a sense of respect and responsibility toward nature, reflecting the values embedded in DDSB’s land acknowledgement.

Principal Kim Stuart expressed her enthusiasm about the grant: “We are thrilled to receive this support from Tree Canada. This grant allows us to make our schoolgrounds more sustainable and beautiful. It’s an opportunity not only for our students to learn new skills but also to gain understanding of the ‘why.’ It’s an opportunity for them to participate directly in the preparation, planting, maintenance, and monitoring of the new trees and shrubs while also fostering community pride, personal satisfaction, and tweaking future pathway interest in tree planting and ecological restoration pursuits.”

“It’s also an opportunity to engage our full community in reconciliation with the land as part of our school’s Indigenous education focus. We look forward to passing the caregiving of this revitalization to future DASS students as well as seeing our greenspace grow and flourish.”

On May 22, the DASS community eagerly awaited the transformation of their greenspace and was joined by a Tree Canada forestry specialist, a sponsoring team from Staples Canada, and Indigenous artist Patrick Hunter. Prior to planting, the entire school was welcomed to participate in a pathway and environmental stewardship conversation from this special guest panel. In total, Trees Canada will have supported the planting of approximately 20 hardwood trees and 20 large shrubs, all native to our area and supplied by Pineneedle Farms in Pontypool. With the new trees and shrubs planted, DASS aims to create an inviting and environmentally conscious atmosphere that will serve as a living classroom for lessons and provide access to private greenspace and student experiences in environmental stewardship through horticulture/arboreal activities.

This grant not only addresses the need for environmental restoration through tree replacement, but it also sets a precedent for future projects aimed at preserving and enhancing the natural beauty of schoolgrounds within the DDSB. With the support of Tree Canada’s Greening Canada’s School Ground grant, DASS's dedication to environmental responsibility and Indigenous education serves as an inspiring example for other schools in the District and beyond.

Director's Update from the DDSB - September 2023

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 14:30:00 GMT

Dear Families,

Welcome to a brand-new school year! We hope this letter finds you well and that you had a relaxing and enjoyable summer filled with special moments and opportunities for reflection. As we kick off a new year, I would like to extend a warm welcome to all our returning families and a heartfelt greeting to those who are joining the DDSB for the first time.

A new school year brings with it a sense of renewed energy and excitement. It is a time to set new goals, embrace fresh opportunities, and create wonderful memories together. We are eager to build upon the successes of the previous school year and continue our journey toward providing the best educational experience for all our students.

Watch our Welcome Back – Return to School Video

Our commitment to creating safe, equitable, inclusive, accessible, respectful, and welcoming learning and working environments remains steadfast. Upholding all aspects of the Ontario Human Rights Code and centring the student as part of decision-making is at the core of our mission. It is critical that we continue to foster a welcoming environment and we are dedicated to ensuring that everyone, whether a familiar face or a new arrival, feels supported and valued within our school community.

Throughout the year, we will continue to engage with our communities, providing opportunities for you to connect with the experiences happening in our classrooms. Our Parent Engagement Speaker Series and involvement through School Community Councils are important venues for families who wish to become more involved in our educational community.

We are also embarking on the creation of a new Multi-Year Strategic Plan and your input is helping us identify priorities, shape our direction, and define our measures of success. Student achievement is a leading priority, and we will continue to focus on the development of skills in reading, writing, and mathematics – including with the creation of a dedicated math lead for the DDSB who will be responsible for curriculum implementation, training, and leading of Board-wide math initiatives to work toward improved math outcomes for students. We also encourage our students to grow, achieve, and create memorable moments through a focus on engagement and well-being.

As we embark on this new school year, there are many significant events ahead, including Terry Fox National School Run Day and Orange Shirt Day & National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, among others. These moments provide opportunities for reflection, learning, and coming together as a community.

We are thrilled to begin this new year. We believe in the potential of each student, and together, we will work toward their growth, success, and well-being – keeping them at the centre of all that we do. Thank you for entrusting us with your child’s education. We look forward to a year filled with learning, laughter, and shared achievements.

Warm regards,

Camille Williams-Taylor

Director of Education

Durham District School Board

DDSB Alumnus Reaches One Million Followers on TikTok

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 15:15:00 GMT

Lifelong friends inspire many around the world online and through artwork

Alumnus Jeff Mitsuo and current R.S. McLaughlin CVI Visual Arts Teacher, Jake Stevens, developed a friendship after Stevens became Mitsuo’s peer tutor when they attended Pickering High School. Mitsuo has cerebral palsy and graduated in 2008. Their friendship has flourished since then.

“I thought that once Jeff finished school, that that was the end of it and both would go their separate paths,” says Mitsuo’s mother Elaine. “Not so. Jake has continued to be a huge part of Jeff’s life.”

She said that Stevens made it a point to come visit her son even when he went away to university.

During the 2019-2020 school year, Stevens introduced artwork to Mitsuo, while he was also teaching adaptive art to his students. He discovered that artwork was helped to improve the fine motor skills of Mitsuo and students in his class.

“I figured it would be fun for him, but would also help me identify any accommodations I would need to make the lesson more successful,” Stevens said. “Jeff loved it. He was happy, expressing himself, and concentrating on one task for much longer than I had ever seen from him before.”

Social Media Stars

Mitsuo was really excelling and Stevens decided to record him. He posted the videos on TikTok and Instagram. Before they knew it, they were celebrating one million followers on TikTok. Their social media popularity has been amazing. So much so that they are now selling Mitsuo’s prints on Etsy around the world, in countries such as Canada, the United States, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Australia, Spain and Russia. R.S. McLaughlin CVI’s special needs students also volunteer to help to pack the prints to be shipped.

It’s important to the pair to give back to the community and they have donated a portion of the sales to Ontario Federation for Cerebral Palsy and the Ajax Legion in honor of veterans. They have setup the Jeff & Jake Bursary at Pickering High School for students in small class placements. Stevens says, “For the next ten years, a deserving graduating student from one of the small class placements will receive a $150 award for outstanding achievement. We can’t wait to attend the first ceremony.” California State University has also requested Mitsuo’s artwork to be put on display on campus.

He is an inspiration to so many which is shown through many of the encouraging comments on social media. “I was in awe and proud of what those two have accomplished. It was heartfelt that all those fans didn’t discriminate and supported them,” explains Mitsuo’s Mom. “Jeff has no idea how popular he is. I’m sure he would thank all his “fans” for their support and kind words.”

To check out Jeff Mitsuo doing his artwork online visit: @paintwithjeff on TikTok @paintwithjeff on Instagram or click here to order prints from Etsy.

Weekly Memo for Nov 17-21

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 13:30:00 GMT

Please find the Weekly Memo for November 17-21

Weekly Memo for March 2-6

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 13:15:00 GMT

Please find the Weekly Memo for March 2-6.

DDSB Appoints Indigenous Trustee

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 21:15:00 GMT

The Durham District School Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Trustee Jill Thompson as First Nations Representative to the Board of Trustees for the remainder of the 2022-2026 term of the Board.

In accordance with Ontario Regulation 462/97 and Section 188 of the Education Act, Jill Thompson was put forward by the Council of Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation for appointment as First Nations Representative on the Board. The Board of Trustees passed a motion approving the appointment and Jill Thompson will be sworn in at the next Board meeting, taking place on Monday, March 20, 2023. Once sworn in, Ms. Thompson will have the same rights, roles and responsibilities as all other trustees.

This appointment aligns with DDSB’s commitment to upholding the principles of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action and the Board’s responsibilities and commitments set out in its Indigenous Education Policy.

DDSB students, families, employees and community members who identify as First Nation, Métis or Inuit will benefit from being able to see themselves represented on the Board of Trustees and will also benefit from having a Board member who understands their perspectives, lived experiences, strengths and needs and can bring that to the Board table.

The appointment of an Indigenous Trustee to the Board of Trustees will support the growth of a meaningful partnership between Treaty Partners and the DDSB and will foster respectful collaboration as highlighted in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, in order to address the legacy and ongoing effects of the past and make visible the possibilities of moving forward.

Quotes:

I look forward to working alongside trustees and hope that my appointment to the Board of Trustees will assist the DDSB in continuing to prioritize and uphold Indigenous Rights. I hope to strengthen the relationship and ongoing collaboration between Treaty Partners, First Nation, Métis and Inuit students, families and staff and the DDSB.

- Jill Thompson, Indigenous Trustee, DDSB Board of Trustees

Ms. Thompson’s appointment to the DDSB’s Board of Trustees is an important step towards ongoing reconciliation and to upholding the Board’s responsibilities and commitments set out in the Indigenous Education Policy. We look forward to learning from and working together with Trustee Thompson to meet the needs of all Indigenous students, families and staff in the DDSB community.

- Donna Edwards, Chair, DDSB Board of Trustees

The Durham District School Board (DDSB) is responsible for public education in the rural settings of Uxbridge, Brock and Scugog Townships and the urban settings of Ajax, Whitby, Pickering, and Oshawa. The DDSB employs 10,000 teaching and educational services staff. With 136 elementary and secondary schools and learning centres, the DDSB accommodates more than 76,000 regular day students and thousands more who take advantage of a wide variety of continuing education and adult credit courses. More information can be found on the DDSB’s website at ddsb.ca. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @ddsbschools, Instagram @ddsbschools and YouTube at DurhamDSB.

Weekly Memo : Jan 23-27

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 21:00:00 GMT

Please find below AHS Weekly Memo for Jan 23-27

DFCC Upcoming Youth Events

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Please find DFCC Upcoming Youth Events Information.

Move to a Regular Semester Schedule

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents/Guardians,

We appreciate receiving community feedback on our message to you earlier this week announcing that we would be temporarily moving to a modified semester schedule. Considering the feedback received and that many staff, students and families are concerned with two transition periods, we have decided that we will be moving to a regular semester schedule for the start of Semester 2 on Thursday, February 3.

We had previously notified families last August and again in December of our intention to move to a semester schedule when it was possible to do so. The Chief Medical Officer of Health has authorized this shift in the learning day and many boards across Ontario are now adopting a semester schedule. We had thought that many would appreciate a transition period to the semester system, but understand based on the feedback received, it is not ideal.

We recognize that this shift may be challenging for some, but we believe there are significant benefits of moving to a semester schedule. The quadmester schedule was put in place as a temporary solution, and while it was the best solution at the time, we now have the opportunity to increase the time that students learn directly from their classroom teacher while also increasing the time for students to consolidate key learning over a five-month period. We are also continuing to maintain final marks based upon 100% term work and students will not be writing exams or final summative assessment tasks.

Secondary schools will be sharing timetables with students prior to the start of Semester 2 and the school day will continue to be from 10am to 4pm.

Thank you once again for the feedback received. We recognize that changes at this time are stressful for many to accept and that with every change there will be those who would prefer another option. In making this adjustment, we are responding to the concerns of the modified semester and transitioning to a semester system which we believe will serve students well.

Sincerely,

Norah Marsh

Director of Education

Shift from Quadmesters to Modified Semesters

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 21:30:00 GMT

Message to Secondary Families RE: Shift from Quadmesters to Modified Semesters

January 24, 2022

Subject: Moving to a Secondary Modified Semester Schedule

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Earlier this school year, the Ministry of Education announced that secondary schools can move back to a semester schedule (with students taking up to 4 courses a day for half the school year) from the current quadmester schedule (with students taking up to 2 courses a day for a quarter of the school year). While we are not able to transition to a full semestered approach yet, all in-person secondary schools will be moving to a modified semester schedule at the start of the second half of the school year on February 3. This shift is in response to the current COVID-19 situation. We will continue to monitor where things stand with the intention for a return to a traditional semester model in the spring.

What is a modified semester?

In a modified semester, students will take four courses for the entire semester until the end of the school year. However, instead of taking four courses in one day, students would take two courses per day (COURSE 1 in the morning, COURSE 2 in the afternoon) for one week and then in the following week, would take the other two courses (COURSE 3 in the morning, COURSE 4 in the afternoon), with the schedule repeating. A sample schedule has been included for your reference.

Why a modified semester approach?

We anticipate that the move back to a semestered schedule, even in a modified semester format, will have a positive impact on engagement for students. This also enables us to move to a full semestered schedule once the COVID-19 situation improves. Students will benefit from taking their courses over a full semester, which means greater opportunities to build relationships, collaborate with peers, understand the big concepts of the course, and provide them with their classroom teacher for all periods instead of utilizing an on-call teacher.

How long will we have a modified semester?

Right now, we are planning for a 5-week interim schedule, from February 3 to March 4, 2022. It is our intention to transition to a traditional semester schedule with four courses per day. We continue to monitor pandemic trends and consult with the Durham Region Health Department on the best approach to take.

What will start and end times be?

Bell times will remain the same for the 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. schedule as they are connected to student transportation.

Sample Schedule

You can also download a sample schedule at to view the next five weeks.

Assessment and Evaluation for Second Semester

As previously communicated, students will be evaluated solely on term work, not through final summatives and/or exams for the entire 2021-2022 school year to provide as much time as possible for in-class instruction.?Students will be given every opportunity to demonstrate their learning throughout the semester and improve upon their learning and demonstration of course expectations.

Health and Safety Measures

In consultation with the Durham Region Health Department, we will continue to ensure appropriate health and safety measures are in place. Masking, hand washing and other hygiene measures, air quality strategies, and physical distancing where possible will continue to be implemented. We ask that students who are eligible to receive their first, second, or booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine consider doing so. Appointments are available at durham.ca/covidvaccines.

Schools will provide additional information to families regarding Semester 2 timetables within the coming days. We ask for your patience as your child’s school works through this process. We appreciate your understanding as we continue to respond to the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. On behalf of the team at the DDSB, our sincere thanks for all that you have done to support your child’s success.

Sincerely,

Norah Marsh

Director of Education

Durham District School Board

'The Daily Drip' Coffee Cart Comes to Clara Hughes PS

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 19:45:00 GMT

With the support of staff, students in the School Support Program (SSP) class at Clara Hughes Public School are learning a few new skills by owning and operating the school's first coffee cart.

Beginning November 5th, students will take the cart to each classroom before recess offering staff the opportunity to purchase an assortment of tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and baked goods.

The idea for the coffee cart, aptly named ‘The Daily Drip’, came from a fusion of ideas from School Support Program Teacher Osmyn Reid and Principal Clint Killeen.

“I’ve always had a fondness for visiting new coffee shops and Melly’s Workplace, Café and Marketplace is among my favourites. The second idea was from Ms. Reid’s experience at Bobby Orr PS when she taught in a Practical Learning Program class, where a similar program is run. Our desire with offering this program at Clara Hughes PS is to be able to create a meaningful, relevant, hands-on learning experience for our students,” says Principal Killeen.

As part of their preparation, the class took a trip to Melly’s Cafe in Whitby to get a behind-the-scenes look at running a café business. The staff at Melly’s Cafe warmly welcomed the class and took them through each step of their daily work routine including serving customers, making drinks, baking pastries, and operating the dishwasher and laundry machines.

Destiny, a Melly’s Café staff member, shared that it is important to raise the expectations of people with disabilities within the community. Douglas, another staff member adds, “We want young people to see we’re independent and working hard. We also want them to see the friendships we’ve made with people that have similar disabilities. These friendships last a lifetime.”

Sylis, a Grade 5 student at Clara Hughes PS, is eager to apply what he’s learned at Melly’s Café to The Daily Drip. “My favourite drink is the hot chocolate. I can’t wait to make that and sell it at school,” says Sylis. He also wishes he could replay the trip to Melly’s Cafe over and over again.

Ms. Reid and Principal Killeen say they hope that with the experience at Melly’s Cafe, students will take away a deeper understanding of work-life dynamics in real-world settings and that it provides inspiration for them as they consider future vocations for themselves.

Ms. Reid says, “As educators, we believe it’s essential for our students to see themselves represented in community spaces, and Melly’s Café provided that opportunity for our exceptional students. The visit to Melly's Café was intended to reinforce to our students that they belong and that they can contribute in many meaningful ways in their communities.”

The Daily Drip ties directly into the school’s SSP class learning objectives by teaching students' valuable life skills, from customer service to managing small business tasks.

Profit generated from the business venture will go towards an exciting end-of-year trip, to be determined.

Now Hiring Flyer - DRPS

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 19:30:00 GMT

Please find the attached flyer. " Hiring Flyer - DRPS "

Black Student Alliance Conference Empowers DDSB Students

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 14:45:00 GMT

The Black Student Alliance Conference, organized by the Durham District School Board (DDSB), was a resounding success, bringing together approximately 100 students and 21 staff members from DDSB secondary schools. The conference served as a platform to empower Black student leaders, providing them with the skills and knowledge to amplify their voices, visions, and agency within their local school communities.

Conference Objectives

The primary objective of the conference was to create an empowering space where Black student leaders could connect, collaborate, and grow. The key components of the conference included district-wide peer networking, school-related action planning, reflections on personal wellness, and accessing wellness supports through an identity-based lens.

Student Takeaways

During the event, students actively engaged in various activities and discussions, all designed to enhance their leadership skills and personal growth. Based on feedback, students expressed their appreciation for networking opportunities, highlighting their favourite moments, such as breakout room interactions and presentations of Black Student Associations (BSA) to different schools. The conference facilitated open and meaningful conversations, and students found inspiration in addressing barriers and solving problems faced by BSA groups. Additionally, students reported making new friends and gaining valuable insights on enhancing their own BSA.

Supporting the Vision

The Black Student Alliance Conference played a significant role in supporting the visions of the attending students. They found the conference instrumental in planning and organizing their BSA networks, challenging ideas, and expanding their thinking. The event inspired creative ways to raise awareness and increase involvement within their school communities. Attendees also expressed that the conference provided valuable ideas, inspired passion, and offered solutions to the challenges their BSAs face.

Guest Speakers and Discussions

The conference featured distinguished guest speakers, including Carole Sandy, M.Ed, M.Sc, RSW, who delivered the keynote address on "From Invisible to Visible - A mental health clinic for people of colour by therapists of colour." Breakout discussions, led by DDSB educators, facilitators, and graduation coaches covered topics such as "Boundaries and Balance", "Action and Impact: How to leverage BSA's effectively", and "Addressing Barriers and finding solutions around it." Furthermore, a community network hosted by Student Success allowed attendees to explore various pathways and connect with community organizations.

The DDSB Black Student Alliance Conference was an inspiring and enriching experience for all participants, fostering empowerment, growth, and community-building among Black student leaders.

Durham District School Board

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Update on Masks and Learning Preference for 2022-23

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 17:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Please find below some important updates. Some of these changes will have an impact on individuals and DDSB staff will be doing their best to support families as we all adjust.

On behalf of our school teams, we ask that everyone approach these changes from a place of kindness, respect and understanding as we follow the direction of the Chief Medical Officer of Health and the Durham Region Health Department.

We know that for many families, next week will be one of reconnecting and enjoying each other’s company in a more relaxed fashion. On behalf of the team at the DDSB, we wish you an enjoyable and safe week. We look forward to welcoming your children back on Monday, March 21.

Sincerely,

Norah Marsh
Director of Education

Masking in Schools

Further to Wednesday’s announcement on changes to province-wide public health and safety measures and yesterday’s Board of Trustees meeting, we are writing to confirm that as of March 21, students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 will no longer be required to wear a mask while at school. The Durham Region Health Department has also indicated that they are following the provincial guidance released on Wednesday and are not recommending additional measures for schools or daycares at this time.

Although the masking requirement has been removed in schools, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health has indicated it is still encouraged to wear a mask in public settings. Schools will be a mask friendly environment and students, visitors, families, and staff are welcome to continue to wear masks while at school and/or on the bus. Yesterday, the DDSB Board of Trustees passed a motion to commit to continue providing three-ply masks for students who request them until the end of June 2022. We ask that everyone be kind, considerate and respectful to one another and the choices that individuals make on wearing a mask.

When students return to school after the March Break, we ask that families continue to complete the daily self-screening for accurate guidance on whether your child should attend school. If your child is sick, please ensure that they do not attend school. If your child has travelled internationally over the March Break, they are required under current federal travel requirements to wear a mask for 14 days after re-entry to Canada when in public places (including schools and child care), maintain a list of all close contacts and self-monitor for signs and symptoms of COVID-19.

If you have not yet been vaccinated, please consider doing so to help protect yourself and your family. You can find out more information on vaccination from the Durham Region Health Department.

Learning Preferences for 2022-2023

We are also sharing with you that starting from Friday, March 18 to Sunday, March 27, families will have the opportunity to select their learning preference (in-person or virtual learning) for the 2022-2023 school year on the parent portal. We will be sharing more information with families on this process after March Break but wanted to ensure that you have an opportunity to start thinking about what learning mode you would like your child to be in for next year.

Winter Break Reminders for In-Person Families

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 15:30:00 GMT

As mentioned previously, we are sharing instructions for the take-home rapid antigen screening kits as well as important information from Durham Region Health Department and the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC).

Take-Home Rapid Antigen Screening Kits

In an effort to promote a safer return to the classroom after the winter break, the Government of Ontario has provided the Durham District School Board with take-home rapid antigen test screening kits for every child attending school in-person, regardless of their vaccination status. Most DDSB schools are distributing these test kits for students to take home on Wednesday, December 15 and some may have distributed these kits already.

These take-home rapid antigen test screening kits are intended to be used by students over the holiday break prior to the return to school. Please read the instructions in this e-mail carefully.

Your child’s participation in this rapid antigen screening is voluntary. Students are not required to participate to return to school after the winter break.

While providing students with rapid antigen screening kits is an important tool for managing the spread of COVID-19, vaccination remains the most effective protection against the virus and its variants. Ensuring that children and youth are vaccinated will provide them with a strong level of protection and help to keep schools open and as safe as possible.

It also is important to remember that we all need to continue with key public health strategies that have been effective in keeping this pandemic under control, including staying home when sick, getting tested if you have symptoms, washing your hands frequently and wearing a face covering as required.

Please read the important information below and the attached instructions prior to using the rapid antigen screening kit.

When to Use the Rapid Antigen Screening Kit (distributed prior to the winter break):

For students who choose to use rapid antigen screening kits, it is recommended students conduct the rapid antigen tests every 3-4 days over the holiday break, on every Monday and Thursday beginning December 23, until all five tests have been used.
Rapid antigen screening kits are only to be used when a child is asymptomatic (i.e. does not have any symptoms of COVID-19 and has not had any exposure to a confirmed case of COVID-19).
Anyone with symptoms or who is identified as a close contact of a case should still get PCR testing.
Rapid antigen screening tests should not be used as a substitute for PCR tests for people with symptoms or for people who are close contacts of cases.

Using the Take-Home Rapid Antigen Screening Kit:

The BTNX Rapid Response™ can be performed using anterior nasal swabbing (per the package insert, as approved by Health Canada) or using deep nasal swabbing (as recommended by Public Health Ontario in this document, given higher sensitivity compared to anterior nasal swabbing). Both types of specimen collection can be performed using the NP swab provided with the kit.
Please follow the instructions provided with this letter.
Important note: Parents or guardians may choose to administer this screening on children who may need help (i.e., younger children).

What to do after your test:

You will know the outcome of the test within 15 minutes. If test results conducted so far are negative, your child may attend school as usual. Even if your child tests negative, they should continue to adhere to all relevant public health guidance, such as guidance on gathering, distancing, and masking.
A positive result on a rapid antigen screening test is considered a preliminary positive. A child that receives a positive result on a rapid antigen screening test should seek a confirmatory PCR test as soon as possible (ideally within 48 hours) at a local testing site or pharmacy that offers testing and isolate themselves until the result of that confirmatory PCR test is known.

DRHD COVID-19 Vaccine Information for Children Aged 5-11 and Parents/Guardians

The following information is being shared on behalf of the Durham Region Health Department:

The Durham Region Health Department hosted a virtual Town Hall on Thursday, December 2 for parents and guardians of children ages 5 - 11 to receive information about the pediatric COVID-19 Pfizer vaccine and have their questions answered. More than 500 participants heard from a panel of local medical and health care professionals. The recorded virtual Town Hall session is now available for those who were not able to attend.

Check out these videos for a tour of our children's clinic and to hear from four young Durham residents who are happy to have received their COVID-19 vaccine.

Walk through one of our children’s clinics with public health nurse Darshani
Colton shares why he is happy to get the COVID-19 vaccine
Hear how these three sisters feel about getting the COVID-19 vaccine

For additional information about the COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5 – 11, visit our webpages:

COVID-19 vaccination for children 5-11
Community Clinics Calendar for Children ages 5-11
Walk-in vaccination opportunities are also available in Durham Region via the provincial GO-VAXX program

Municipal & School Board Election Voter Information

The following information is being shared on behalf of the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC):

The Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) is responsible for collecting the information of residents in Ontario (name, date of birth, citizenship and school support) in order to create a preliminary list of electors for municipal and school board elections. Municipalities will use the preliminary list of electors to prepare their voters lists for the 2022 Municipal and School Board Elections.

One of the ways MPAC collects this information is through voterlookup.ca. Here, Ontarians can add their name and the names of other members of their household to a secure database and confirm or update their information.

The upcoming year will be a busy one for Ontario voters, with the Ontario Provincial Election and Municipal and School Board Elections happening just a few months apart. Make sure you are on the list to vote in the 2022 Municipal and School Board Elections on October 24. Register and verify your information at voterlookup.ca.

We hope you have a safe and happy winter break and wish you all the best in 2022.

Durham District School Board

Weekly Memo Week for March 17-21

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 12:45:00 GMT

Please find the Weekly Memo for March 17-21

Honouring the Legacy of the Honourable Murray Sinclair

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 20:00:00 GMT

It is with profound sadness that we learned today of the passing of the Honourable Murray Sinclair, a visionary leader whose life’s work transformed the landscape of justice, healing, and reconciliation in Canada. As Chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, Senator Sinclair opened hearts and minds across the nation and beyond, helping us all to listen deeply to the stories of Indigenous Survivors and understand the courage and resistance inherent in their journey.

Senator Sinclair’s legacy is one of boundless courage, compassion, and dedication to truth. Through his wisdom and advocacy, he has inspired a renewed commitment to respect, understanding, and unity. His dedicated work has reminded us all of our collective responsibility to honour diversity, support inclusivity, and contribute to a brighter future for every student.

As we honour Senator Sinclair’s extensive contributions, let us also reflect on the meaningful ways we can continue his legacy in our schools. Together, may we carry forward his message of reconciliation with a renewed dedication to Indigenous Rights, Anti Colonialism, learning, and understanding in our educational community.

Please join us in remembering the Honourable Murray Sinclair’s profound contributions and in reflecting on how we can collaboratively continue his work for generations to come.

With respect,

Camille Williams-Taylor
Director of Education
Durham District School Board

7 Top Tips to Help Families at Back-to-School Time

Tue, 27 Aug 2019 15:15:00 GMT

Returning to school can be an anxious time for some students as they get ready to meet new friends, get acquainted with a new teacher, new routines and possibly a new school. Here are some tips that can help ease the transition to a new school year.

Start preparing your kids for school at least a week before. For example, practice the route to school, and get them back into a school-time sleeping schedule.
Prepare a “Must Know” list for the school and teacher. The list will provide important information for the school staff, such as allergies, illnesses, physical limitations, or any necessary accommodations that might need to be made.
Watch for possible signs of stress, such as altered sleep, headaches and/or stomach pains, a lack of appetite (or eating more than usual), anxiety, or poor concentration – both before school starts and for several weeks after schools begins.
Don’t forget to ask your kids if they have any worries about the new school year, then follow up on their concerns, provide information, reassurance and problem-solving help, as needed.
Be careful not to overload your child with too many activities outside of school. Sometimes the best cure for stress is just to have some quiet time.
Monitor and manage your own stress level so that it does not create more anxiety for them and so they can pick up some good stress management techniques from you too!
Finally, be positive about school with your children and help them feel it’s a good experience.

Courtesy of the Psychology Foundation of Canada psychologyfoundation.org

The Durham District School Board (DDSB) is responsible for public education in the rural settings of Uxbridge, Brock and Scugog Townships and the urban settings of Ajax, Whitby, Pickering and Oshawa. The DDSB employs 7,600 teaching and educational services staff. With 132 elementary and secondary schools and learning centres, the DDSB accommodates more than 70,000 regular day students and thousands more who take advantage of a wide variety of continuing education and adult credit courses. More information can be found on the DDSB’s website at www.ddsb.ca. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @DurhamDSB and YouTube at DurhamDSB.

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Supporting Student Well-Being with Guest Speaker Mike Shoreman

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 20:00:00 GMT

The Durham District School Board (DDSB) is committed to supporting student well-being and mental health at all levels of the organization and in individual classrooms.

To encourage students to explore various help strategies, the 5 W’s resource was developed by a working group of the 2021-2022 DDSB Student Senate, to reinforce the importance of student mental health and well-being.

The 5 W’s are:

WHAT is ‘help’ and what does finding help look like?
WHO can I reach out to for help?
WHERE can I go for help?
WHEN should I reach out for help or encourage someone else to?
WHY should I reach out for help in times of need?

Mike Shoreman visited Meadowcrest and Julie Payette Public School on September 8, 2022 to talk to students about overcoming obstacles placed in front of us, the importance of reaching out in times of need, and having access to resources to help those struggling with mental health navigate it in a safe space. Mike is an athlete, speaker, author, youth mental health advocate, and the first Canadian with disabilities to cross all five Great Lakes. His journey across the Great Lakes raised funds for children and youth in crisis and raised awareness about mental health and persons with disabilities.

Shoreman’s inspiration comes from overcoming his own challenges and adversity. Mike was diagnosed with Ramsey Hunt Syndrome in 2018, which is a neurological condition that affects the nervous system and causes a loss in mobility and speech. Shoreman explained his experience by saying, “I remember in my mental health journey, I felt very alone, and I think a lot of people do. I don't ever want kids to feel like how I felt.”

Shoreman has been inspiring students across the GTA, including the DDSB with his 'I AM a Leader' program. He spoke to many students on the ways they can overcome obstacles and challenges and become leaders. Through his inspirational talks he emphasizes the importance and value of teamwork, while highlighting mental health and disability inclusion, sharing words of wisdom, gained through his lived experiences and challenging students to advocate for themselves and their peers.

Mike shared with students of all ages at various schools across the Durham Region, “what keeps me motivated now is knowing that I did this [crossing all five Great Lakes] for the millions of Canadians who suffer from anxiety, stress, depression and worse. I did this for young Canadians to put mental health programs in schools in our community and across the country.”

Thank you to Michael Shoreman for sharing the importance of mental health with the students of DDSB.

Important Notice Regarding DDSB Playground Equipment

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 19:00:00 GMT

The safety and well-being of our students, staff and school communities is our top priority at the Durham District School Board (DDSB). This is more important than ever during these challenging and unprecedented times of school closures, self-isolation and physical distancing necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

At this time during the COVID-19 pandemic, we kindly request that members of the community please stay off playground equipment situated on DDSB schoolyards, as they are not routinely cleaned/sanitized. This is critical to help protect individuals, families, and community members and stop the spread of the virus.

Also, we would like to remind residents to please continue to utilize physical distancing of 2 metres if you come into contact with people outside of your household to limit the spread of COVID-19 and protect your fellow community members. Recent reports from the New England Journal of Medicine indicate that the virus can survive for up to three days on plastic and stainless-steel surfaces and four to five days on other materials.

We appreciate the cooperation of all residents as we all work together in these challenging times and look forward to a return to more regular routines once this pandemic is over.

2022 DELF Cancellation

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 20:00:00 GMT

Attn: Families of secondary students and all secondary students

Dear Parents/Guardians and Students,

The Durham District School Board (DDSB) is proud of the range of French as a Second Language (FSL) programs that are offered to students. As we strive to recognize students’ accomplishments in FSL programs, the DDSB, in cooperation with the Ontario DELF Centre, previously offered on an annual basis the Diplôme d'études en langue française (DELF), an international accreditation from the government of France.

Although this accreditation can be completed by any person, at any time, it is promoted to students who are enrolled in at least one grade 12 French credit in Ontario. Over the past few years, DDSB has met some challenges with offering the DELF. In 2020, due to COVID-19 related school closures and again in 2021, due to COVID-19 complications, opportunities to complete the DELF were not available through many boards, including DDSB.

DDSB anticipated a return to the usual practice of offering the DELF to students in May of 2022, however due to a variety of ongoing challenges at this time, it is not possible for the DELF to proceed in DDSB schools. As we continue to be challenged by COVID-19 related staff shortages, the significant work of preparing to hire and train DELF examiners and correcteurs has been impacted and we are unable to successfully administer the highly regulated DELF examinations with the available staff. Many other boards are facing similar situations.

We know that this will come as disappointing news to all involved, particularly to the families and students who were expecting a return to the DELF in 2022 and who have already registered and started preparing. We understand how valued the DELF is to students and families and are offering an alternate option to achieve the DELF certification in 2022.

Any student who registered for the May 2022 DELF in DDSB will qualify to complete the exam at one of the locations overseen by the Alliance Française. The closest location to Durham Region is in North York. Students who complete the DELF at an Alliance Francaise location will be eligible for a reimbursement of 50% of the examination fees. Details about the reimbursement process will be shared as soon as it is confirmed, including financial assistance for those who may need it, but staff wanted to share this information with families today so that students can explore registration for the DELF externally without delay. To register for the DELF, families can visit the Alliance Francaise website for a schedule of available upcoming examination dates by location and section of the exam.

We understand how much work students and staff have undertaken in advance of completing the DELF and are pleased that students will have the opportunity to complete the DELF in 2022. Going forward each year, DDSB staff are exploring the possibility of offering the DELF on a twice a year basis in November and again in the spring, in order to manage the number of staff who will need to be hired and trained to support exam administration.

Sincerely,

Durham District School Board

SEAC Membership Update

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 17:45:00 GMT

The Durham District School Board (DDSB) is pleased to announce the addition of two new Advocate Members and a new Member at Large to the Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC).

The Black Parent Support Group and Durham Region Early Years Child Care Consortium have been welcomed to the membership of SEAC. Both organizations will start their role at the SEAC table beginning November 18, 2021.

The Black Parent Support Group was established in 2020 and supports Black caregivers of children and adults with a disability, while providing families with a safe place to network, build connections, problem-solve, share resources and to become less isolated.

The Durham Region Early Years Consortium brings together a group of early years and child services committed to the delivery of high-quality programs that provide consistency and continuity for children as they transition between community and school, core day and extended day programs. The Early Years consortium exists to promote the healthy development, security and safety for all children and families through neighbourhood collaboration and service integration.

The DDSB is also pleased to welcome new Member at Large Donna Edge-Bean. Donna is currently Director of the Access Centre for Success for Durham College working with students and faculty to provide full opportunities for academic success.

Both organizations and new Member at Large were approved at the DDSB November 15, 2021 Board Meeting as SEAC members advocating for the rights of students with special learning needs.

Background

Under Ontario's Education Act, every student is entitled to a program which meets their needs. In Durham, our Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) helps the Board protect the rights of students with special learning needs. SEAC provides information, advice and assistance to parents/guardians whose children may require additional support.

SEAC advises and makes recommendations to the Board concerning the establishment and development of special education programs and services.

Quote

“To support inclusive education, we are so pleased to welcome new members from the Black Parent Support Group - Jenny McLaughlin and Carrisa Foston-Lewis, a representative from the Early Years Consortium, and new member at Large Donna Edge-Bean. The new members will bring different and diverse voices to SEAC to provide input on special education programming and services to better serve all students with disabilities.” Eva Kyriakides, SEAC Chair and Donna Edwards, Trustee – Town of Ajax.

The Durham District School Board (DDSB) is responsible for public education in the rural settings of Uxbridge, Brock and Scugog Townships and the urban settings of Ajax, Whitby, Pickering and Oshawa. The DDSB employs 7,000 teaching and educational services staff. With 136 elementary and secondary schools and learning centres, the DDSB accommodates more than 70,000 regular day students and thousands more who take advantage of a wide variety of continuing education and adult credit courses. More information can be found on the DDSB’s website at www.ddsb.ca. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @DurhamDSB, Instagram @durhamschools and YouTube at DurhamDSB.

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It Takes a Village: Gerdau Whitby Champions Equity and Kindness at West Lynde Public School

Tue, 06 May 2025 20:30:00 GMT

At the Ignite Durham Learning Foundation (IDLF), we know that when our schools and communities work together, every student has a better chance to thrive. Gerdau Whitby recently demonstrated their generosity and support for West Lynde Public School in a meaningful and impactful way.

Gerdau Whitby generously provided a nutritious lunch for all students and staff at West Lynde Public School, demonstrating their ongoing support for the school community and their commitment to student well-being.

This incredible act of kindness did more than fill plates—it filled hearts. It brought joy, laughter, and a genuine sense of connection to the school community. For many students, it was a moment of celebration and inclusion. For staff, it was a meaningful reminder that they are part of a broader team— and a community that stands behind them.

“Our team was so moved by the gratitude we received from the students and staff,” shared Amy Blakeley, a representative from Gerdau Whitby. “There’s nothing more rewarding than knowing our efforts are helping young people feel seen, cared for, and supported. It’s a privilege to give back.”

Many members of the Gerdau team have personal ties to the school, making their support even more heartfelt. Whether volunteering their time or donating resources, they stepped up with one clear goal: to help ensure that every student has an equal opportunity to succeed.

In a time when schools face growing challenges, it’s moments like these that shine bright. They remind us that when we come together—businesses, educators, families—we can create the conditions for all students to learn, grow, and thrive.

To Gerdau Whitby—thank you. Your unwavering support, kindness, and community spirit mean the world. You’ve not only nourished our students—you’ve uplifted our entire school community.

Together, we’re building a future rooted in equity, opportunity, and compassion.

If you are interested in supporting our local school in our community or learning the impact you can make in the lives of local children and youth, please reach out to our team at ignite.foundation@ddsb.ca

About Ignite Durham Learning Foundation

The Ignite Durham Learning Foundation is a charitable organization operating within the Durham District School Board. We exist to support students experiencing poverty, which can have a deep and lasting effect on a child’s physical, mental, emotional and academic development. We believe every student should have nutritious food at lunch and snacks, be dressed for the weather, and can find success in post-secondary education. More information can be found on the Ignite Durham Learning Foundation website www.IDLF.ca. Like us on Facebook, and follow us on LinkedIn @ignitedurhamlearningfoundation and Instagram @ignitedurhamlf. Charitable Registration #: 74018 7919 RR0001 Click here to support our work.

Secondary: Report Cards, Retrieval of Items & Summer Programs

Fri, 29 May 2020 21:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents/Guardians,

I am writing today to provide you with a few updates about report cards, the retrieval of student belongings from schools and summer programs being offered for secondary students. We hope that you will find these updates helpful as we enter the final month of the school year.

Report Cards

With the ongoing closure of schools, the way that we deliver report cards to students will be changing and we are currently looking into the feasibility of distributing report cards electronically to families. Once these plans are finalized, your school’s principal will be providing families with more information.

Retrieval of Student Belongings from Schools

You will also be receiving a message from your school’s principal early next week outlining the process for your child(ren) to retrieve personal belongings from school. The protocol that has been developed has been approved by the Durham Region Health Department and prioritizes the health and safety of students, parents/guardians and staff.

Summer Programing for Secondary Students

With the continued closure of schools due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the summer programming offered by Durham Continuing Education (DCE) will look a little bit different as we implement flexible student learning opportunities. In order to support students and mitigate the impacts of the school closure period, DCE has expanded the existing eLearning offerings for students in Grades 9 to 12 to include Credit Recovery and Gap Closing/Upgrading. Unfortunately, some of our other regular face-to-face programs have been cancelled this year to ensure the safety of students and our staff.

A brief summary of offerings is attached and includes the dates/times that registration will open. Please note that registration is now open today, Friday May 29, for Credit Recovery and Gap Closing/Upgrading summer programs. Please visit dce.ca to for more information about these programs and to register.

On behalf of everyone at the DDSB, we wish you a relaxing weekend ahead and hope that you are continuing to stay well. To stay up to date about activities across the DDSB, please visit our website at www.ddsb.ca.

With thanks,

Norah Marsh

Acting Director of Education

Durham District School Board

Photo day

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 17:30:00 GMT

Photo Day: Monday September 9th 2024

Sprit wear- Sale Flyer

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 19:30:00 GMT

Buy your spirit wear!

Find the flyer below for more information.

Christine Thatcher elected DDSB Board Chair for 2023-24

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 16:30:00 GMT

Following its annual Organizational Board Meeting, the Durham District School Board has announced that Whitby Trustee Christine Thatcher has been elected Chair of the Board for 2023-24.

Dedicated to student success and well-being, Thatcher was first elected in 2018 and is committed to public education. Thatcher was re-elected to a new four-year term in 2022.

“I am honoured to take on the role of Chair and build upon the successes of the Board,” Thatcher said in a statement. “My goal is to continue the outstanding work of the Board and the past Chair, focusing on student learning, equity, human rights, and well-being, while ensuring accountability, strong leadership, and responsiveness to the needs of our community. We are committed to delivering results that make a positive impact on the lives of our students and their families.”

Trustees were also selected to serve on various committees, including:

Deb Oldfield, elected from Oshawa as Vice Chair of the Board and Chair of the Standing Committee
Tracy Brown, elected from Whitby as Vice Chair of the Committee of the Whole-Standing Committee
Carolyn Morton, elected from Brock/Scugog/Uxbridge as Chair of the Education Finance Committee
Emma Cunningham, elected from Pickering as Chair of the Governance and Policy Committee

A complete list of Board Committees and Trustee Liaisons can be found on the DDSB’s website.

Solar Eclipse - April 8, 2024

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 19:00:00 GMT

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, partially or completely blocking the sun’s rays. On the afternoon of April 8th, 2024, a total solar eclipse is set to occur spanning across Southern Ontario and into Newfoundland and Labrador. Durham Region will see a partial eclipse. The sky will become dark, as if it were dawn or dusk.

Although an eclipse is fascinating, it is important to understand the potential risks to eyesight if precautions are not taken. The Sun’s UV radiation can permanently damage your eyes. NEVER look directly into the Sun. Looking directly at the Sun, without appropriate protection, can lead to serious problems such as partial or complete loss of eyesight.

View the Timing of Eclipse for Durham Region: https://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/solar/2024-april-8

Safety tips to help you enjoy watching an eclipse:

Children should be carefully supervised during an eclipse.
Watch via Online Livestream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2MJY_ptQW1o
Use only approved solar eclipse glasses that meet International standard ISO 12312-2. Do NOT use them if they are scratched.
Sunglasses, no mater how dark, are NOT sufficient!
Use ONLY specially designed solar eclipse filters for cameras, binoculars and telescopes. It is unsafe without these filters.

OSSTF One-Day Strike Action

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 05:15:00 GMT

At this time there has been no agreement reached between the province and OSSTF (Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation). As a result, Durham District School Board (DDSB) secondary schools will be closed to students on Wednesday, December 4, 2019 due to a ONE DAY strike by OSSTF members.

Please note, this is a ONE DAY strike, and all DDSB secondary schools will re-open for a regular school day on Thursday, December 5, 2019. Also, DDSB elementary schools remain unaffected and will REMAIN OPEN.

This has been, and continues to be, an exceptional and rapidly changing situation, but student and staff safety is always our first priority. The decision to close schools has not been taken lightly, and has been made because we do not believe we can provide the necessary safe and secure learning environments for all students during a full withdrawal of services by OSSTF members.

We will continue to follow this situation closely and are committed to providing parents and guardians with accurate and timely information. The most recent information and updates will continue to be found on our website: https://www.ddsb.ca/en/labour-action-update.aspx or by following us on Twitter @DurhamDSB.

All decisions that we have undertaken have been made with child safety as our number one priority.

The Durham District School Board (DDSB) is responsible for public education in the rural settings of Uxbridge, Brock and Scugog Townships and the urban settings of Ajax, Whitby, Pickering and Oshawa. The DDSB employs 6,900 teaching and educational services staff. With 133 elementary and secondary schools and learning centres, the DDSB accommodates more than 70,000 regular day students and thousands more who take advantage of a wide variety of continuing education and adult credit courses. More information can be found on the DDSB’s website at www.ddsb.ca. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @DurhamDSB, Instagram @durhamschools and YouTube at DurhamDSB .

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"30 Credits My Way" to Empower Student Pathways

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 20:00:00 GMT

Durham District School Board Launches “30 Credits My Way” to Empower Student Pathways

The Durham District School Board (DDSB) is excited to introduce 30 Credits My Way, an innovative approach designed to put students and families in the driver’s seat of their high school journey. This initiative aims to empower students to navigate their educational pathways with confidence by offering flexible and personalized options to suit diverse learning styles and career aspirations.

“30 Credits My Way” embraces the idea that a high school education is not a one-size-fits-all experience. By taking control of their learning journey, students can customize their pathway, ensuring it aligns with their passions and future goals. From accelerating credit completion to creating adaptable timetables enabling students to shape their education in ways that work best for them.

Students and families can explore a variety of opportunities including:

Co-op Placements: Gain hands-on experience in the workplace.
Specialized Programs: Participate in initiatives like the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) and Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM).
International Language Programs: Broaden linguistic and cultural horizons.
Alternative Learning Formats: Choose from night school, summer school, and eLearning options.

Backward Design Approach

This approach incorporates a backward design framework, starting with identifying the student’s desired outcomes and working backward to determine the steps needed to achieve them. Students can strategically select courses and opportunities that directly support their aspirations.

With comprehensive Grade 9-12 courses and pathways available, DDSB is committed to supporting every student’s journey through secondary school and beyond. “30 Credits My Way” provides access to tools, guidance, and opportunities necessary for students to build a foundation for lifelong success.

Please visit “30 Credits My Way” for more information and how you can participate.

Kedron PS students design accessible solutions in 3D printing project

Wed, 15 May 2024 13:15:00 GMT

Grade 6 and 7 students at Kedron Public School participated in a three-week innovative project that had them plan, design, and print accessible solutions for people with disabilities.

Earlier this year, Inclusive Students Services and Innovative Education staff rolled out a new project for schools titled 3D Printing Project: Dream, Design, Deliver. The goal is to teach students to use 3D printing technology to design and produce practical accessibility solutions while providing valuable learning experiences.

Eager for a new and innovative use of the school’s 3D printer, Teacher Librarian Beth Birney and Grade 6 and 7 Teacher Rob Hercia became the first to run the project with their students.

Birney says they began the project with a lot of meaningful discussions about people with disabilities in their community. “One student shared that her uncle has Parkinson’s and we discussed how that may impact things like eating, carrying in groceries, or brushing your teeth.”

Students formed groups of two and started shaping their big ideas into practical accessible solutions. Using a web application called TinkerCAD, students created 3D designs of their ideas. Through trial and error, they printed their designs and often had to go back to the drawing board to re-design in TinkerCAD.

“Students enhanced their problem-solving skills and persevered by scaling down their big ideas to simplify their designs and print realistic prototypes. Some students found it was better to print parts separately and then assemble them after instead of printing a complex design all at once,” says Hercia.

Grade 6 students Sophia G. and Erina created a prototype for people with mobility limitations to support them brushing their teeth. The prototype features a ring to fit around a person’s wrist to support administering toothpaste to the brush. “We imagined the product would come in different shapes and sizes to be easier for travel,” says Erina. Sophia G. adds, “We wanted to help people feel empowered and not have to ask others for help.”

Grade 7 students Ava and Sophia B. wanted to help people who experience fine motor disabilities, so their prototype was designed to help open long handled doors. “We quickly realized this wouldn't solve the issue for everyone, so it got us thinking about all the potential barriers of our design such as round doorknobs and heavy doors,” explains Ava. Sophia B. adds, “At first it was difficult to come up with a plan without putting ourselves in someone else’s shoes. Being exposed to so many diverse stories during this project really put things in perspective and inspired us to think outside the box.”

Both Birney and Hercia agree the project was a huge success. “During this process, students experienced empathy, understanding, and purposeful thinking. It was more about the process than the final product,” says Birney.

Seneca Trail PS Honours Teachers Who Passed Away

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 14:45:00 GMT

To date, staff and students have raised over $2600 for Lakeridge Health’s Cancer Centre

In 2015, the Seneca Trail Public School community lost one of their beloved teachers, Lisa Ducharme, to brain cancer.

Since 2018, students and staff at the Oshawa school have honoured Ducharme by hosting ‘Ducharme Day,’ upon which they dress up in colourful scarves and donate $2 to Lakeridge Health’s Cancer Centre. The idea for Ducharme Day came from four students in Grade 6 at the time (Grade 8 now), who wanted to make a difference: Jenna, Madison, Hailey, and Madisen.

Cristina Cox, Principal of Seneca Trail PS, says that to date the school has raised over $2600 for the Cancer Centre.

Unfortunately, in 2019 the Seneca Trail PS community lost another teacher, Kim Clausen. Clausen also passed away from a form of cancer. This additional loss prompted the girls to make an even bigger difference.

Ducharme Day has been renamed ‘Clausen/Ducharme Day’ and for the past two years, along with the regular donation of $2, the girls hosted a bake sale for the entire school.

The annual fundraiser always takes place at the end of January, on a date chosen to be on or near Ducharme’s birthday.

“This year alone we raised $856,” enthuses Cox.

A Wake-Up Call

Last year, before Clausen had passed, Cox and the four girls were invited to experience a tour of the Lakeridge Health Cancer Centre in Oshawa. Cox says visiting the Cancer Centre took cancer from merely being an abstract concept and made it much more tangible and real to the students.

“A lot of people are affected by cancer. Whether they have a family member or friend with it, or they have it themselves,” explains Jenna, a Grade 8 student and one of the fundraising organizers.

“From our school, two teachers had been diagnosed with different types of cancer, and both passed away. This was sort of a wake-up call, telling us that we needed to act. Going to the hospital and learning about the machinery and equipment used to help these patients was a really good experience.”

Jenna adds, “Any contribution can help. As a school, we have raised money to contribute to better treatments. Cancer patients deserve the best possible care.”

Future Leaders

Cox notes that organizing and contributing to these fundraisers will show students the importance of being activists in the community, “They are our future leaders and we need to instill the belief that they can be change agents. If we raise them to be involved in their communities, then they become adults that believe they can make a difference.”

Weekly Memo - Sept 12-16

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 19:45:00 GMT

Please find attached weekly Memo of Sept 12-16.

Weekly Memo for March 25th- 29th .

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 15:00:00 GMT

Please find the Weekly Memo for March 25th- 29th.

Weekly Memo June 10 - 14

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 13:30:00 GMT

Please find the Weekly Memo for June 10 - 14

January 2025 Updates

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 14:30:00 GMT

Dear Ajax High School Families,

Welcome Back and Happy New Year!

Semester 1 Summative Week Information

We kindly ask that you review the following information with your child as they prepare for our upcoming summative week. Our Guidance and Stomp out Stigma team will be providing activities for students to engage with leading up to summative week, which will include stress management, study skills and healthy coping strategies.

Summative Week Student Procedures January 2025

January 2024-2025 Summative Schedule.pdf

Yearbook Sales and Graduation Photo Reminders

January 13th 2025 is the final date for yearbook sales on School Cash online. Yearbooks can be pre-ordered for $55. Please note that yearbooks will NOT be sold in June.
For graduating students, any Grad Photo retakes taken after December, will not be part of the yearbook. This was communicated to all students and families on November 4th 2024.
Graduating students can book Grad Photo retakes on February 10th and 11th (booking information will be shared). Any students photographed at the school during retakes will be included in the Grad Composite.

Inclusive Student Services Transition Resource Guide and Free Webinars

We are sharing the following information for families with children with special education needs to review and consider:

Cypher Conference Gets a Visit from Grammy Award-Winning Artist

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 19:45:00 GMT

Black boys in Grades 7, 8, 9, and 10 were ecstatic to be back in person at the 2023 edition of The Cypher: Black Male Empowerment Conference.

The Cypher Conference, now in its seventh year, attracted more than 400 students from across the DDSB to come together in person at Durham College to celebrate, learn, discuss, have fun, and engage in exploring opportunities for their future.

“We are excited to have ‘The Cypher’ conference back in-person this year. This is a valuable opportunity for our intermediate and secondary Black male students to experience an opportunity to gather, learn, be energized, and see themselves reflected as they strive to be the best version of who they can be,” said Director of Education Camille Williams-Taylor, who provided the opening remarks.

The annual conference provides Black male students with an opportunity to engage with a wide range of entrepreneurs, community leaders, educators, and Black male role models to help explore academic and career pathways and provide a platform to encourage meaningful conversations. Students were immersed in a space of Black male brilliance to propel their desires to achieve their full potential as demonstrated by the keynote discussion from former student and Grammy award-winning record producer Boi-1da.

Boi-1da, also known as Matthew Samuels, is a DDSB alumnus of Pickering High School and Westney Heights Public School who engaged students with stories of working with Drake, Rihanna, Jay-Z, and more of the biggest names in music. He shared his experiences attending Pickering High School, learning his craft, and the events in his formative years that led to him becoming a successful music producer while doing the work he loves. He answered questions while empowering students to always reach for their dreams.

“I accepted the invite to the conference because I wanted Black kids to think that anything is possible, no matter where you’re from, and especially for youth out here in Durham,” said Boi-1da. “It’s possible to get anywhere you want to get in life if you put in the hard work. I just want to show them it’s possible by telling my story and just being there to show them that you can do it.

Students also took the opportunity during the conference to interact with community organizations and join in some fun activities and workshops led by Black male role models from across the DDSB and the wider community. Conference workshops covered a wide range of subjects, from physical fitness to money management. Students also participated in touring the college campus through organized outings while exploring a range of programs and opportunities that would be available to them following high school.

The focus of this year’s conference was to engage and empower Black male students and provide them with access to a wide range of leadership and engagement opportunities. Conference organizers believe it is imperative to remain mindful of the importance of the need for more Black male role models and emphasize the goals of promoting positive transitions through various academic pathways while also eliminating barriers to success.

Excellence at Ajax High School

Tue, 23 Jul 2019 17:45:00 GMT

Three Ajax High School students graduate with averages over 96 per cent

Marissa Toshack, Zena Shamli Oghli, and Chuting Wang just wrapped up their final year of high school, with all three students achieving graduating averages above 96 per cent.

On the last day of school, they gathered together with three of their teachers and reminisced about the highlights of their Ajax High School experience.

Marissa’s Experience

“The French Immersion stream was definitely my highlight,” says Marissa Toshack. “Whether it was learning science or history in French, or just learning the French language, I could tell the teachers were super passionate about what they were teaching us.”

Over the four years Toshack was involved in the school’s Swim Team, Remembrance Day Committee, and Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA). DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in a variety of business-related sectors through case study competitions at the regional, provincial, and national level. This past year, Toshack participated in the regional DECA competition, as well as the provincial competition in Toronto, “I got the chance to go to provincials with my partner in the Travel and Tourism sector. We had a great experience in Toronto. We got to dress up in business attire, and I learned a lot about public speaking and interviewing skills.”

One of Toshack’s teachers, Senthuran Paramasamy, says that before teaching Toshack he had never had a student achieve a mark of 100 per cent in every classroom assignment, “In my entire teaching career only this one person got perfect in everything.” Paramasamy laughs, “At first I thought, am I doing something wrong? I try to throw my students off so they don’t know what to expect, but she was always very stable. Nothing bothers her!”

Toshack completed her Grade 12 year with an overall average of 99.2 per cent, and will be continuing her education at Queen’s University in the Honours Bachelor of Health Sciences program in the Fall.

“The program is general in the first year, and then I’ll probably specialize in physics or chemistry in my second year,” explains Toshack. Smiling, she adds, “I’m really excited for the change, and the new stage in my life.”

Zena’s Experience

Zena Shamli Oghli says that the extra-curriculars she was involved in contributed to a positive high school experience. Throughout her four years she was a part of Student Council, Remembrance Day Committee, Spoken Word Club, Tech Club, and more. She even started her own editing business called Zena’s Editing Services, where she edited assignments for her peers.

She says her motivation to do well in school comes from her family, “I think a lot of what drives me are the sacrifices that were made in order for me to have this education. My family came here 15 years ago from Kuwait. The idea of everything my parents are putting towards my education really drives me. And the idea that there are so many people that are less fortunate, and would give a lot to have this education.” She adds, “I think it’s really important for me to take that privilege and use it to help others, and to encourage a love of learning in others.”

Michael Bentley, one of Shamli Oghli’s teachers, noticed her eagerness to help others from the beginning, “She always worked really hard. When other students were away she offered to help them get caught up.”

Shamli Oghli finished her Grade 12 year with an overall average of 96.2 per cent, and will be continuing her education in the Fall at McMaster University in the Honours Bachelor of Health Sciences program.

But before that, she wants to take a ‘full and complete’ break from school this summer, “At least for the next month I want nothing to do with school.” She grins, adding, “I want to spend time with my friends, go biking and hiking, finish all the TV shows I’ve started, and just get away from it all for a little bit.”

Chuting’s Experience

Chuting Wang is an International Student who travelled from China to Ajax in her Grade 10 year. Wang says when she first came to Ajax HS she had a hard time with the English language, “My favourite class that year was English as a Second Language (ESL) because of my teacher, Ms. Beattie. I really appreciate her because I could not understand any of my other classes at first, and she was very patient and she helped me a lot.”

Wang says the best parts of being an International Student in Canada are that she can study a variety of courses such as visual art or technological design, and that the experience has allowed her to become very independent. “Even though I live with my guardians, I had to do a lot of things on my own. I opened my own bank account, bought my own insurance, and figured out how to travel around on my own. I feel like that has prepared me for university life,” Wang says proudly.

“She’s determined,” says Wang’s Grade 12 English Teacher David Gatt. “Anytime there was a big assignment she’d be in my classroom before and after school. It was amazing to see someone who is so young, has their head on straight, and wants to do really well in life. It was so refreshing.”

Wang was also involved in DECA, and excelled in her Grade 10 Technological Design class, “I learned how to make mechanical parts by using a software called Inventor, and ended up building a robot in that class.”

She finished her Grade 12 year with an overall average of 96.3 per cent, and will be continuing her studies at the University of Waterloo in the Mechatronics Engineering program in the Fall.

Wang says she’s excited to enjoy this summer because her parents are coming over from China, and they will be travelling to places like Ottawa and Montreal, “I haven’t had a chance to see much of Canada yet, so we’re going to do that together.”

Educators Make All the Difference

All three students unanimously agree that it was the educators at Ajax HS that made their experiences unforgettable. Shamli Oghli concludes with an earnest smile, “Thank you guys for being such a crucial part of the high school experience. What really made high school was the teachers.”

Secondary And Still We Rise Conference Goes Virtual

Wed, 30 Sep 2020 14:30:00 GMT

Conference topics included art, well-being, self-care, and self-advocacy

In May, the Durham Black Educators’ Network (DBEN) hosted their 10^th annual And Still We Rise Secondary Conference. But this time the three-day conference took place online instead of in a Durham District School Board (DDSB) school.

“When we realized the schools would still be closed, our students wanted to make sure the conference happened regardless. It’s really a testament of their will to reframe passion to be impactful to others,” explains Eleanor McIntosh, Past Chair of DBEN and Ajax HS Principal.

Each year, Student Ambassadors are the main organizers of the And Still We Rise Secondary Conference, and this year was no exception.

This year’s conference focused on four virtual workshops presented by DBEN Student Ambassadors. The workshops were: Take a Breath (discussing self-care), Black is Art (learning to embrace the power and beauty in Black culture), The Chill Zone (a free space to talk openly about anything), and No Closed Doors (discussing self-advocacy).

Kayana Bucknor, a Grade 12 student at J. Clarke Richardson Collegiate and DBEN Student Ambassador says that hosting the conference virtually allowed them to reach more people. “We were able to extend the awareness beyond DDSB. The online aspect gave us the advantage of sharing our message with people all over Ontario.”

On the final day of the conference, viewers enjoyed an endnote speech from DDSB alumnus Lincoln Alexander Estridge. Among many vocations, Estridge is the founder of The Fight Inside Society, an organization dedicated to raising mental health awareness and bringing mental health care workers to public schools.

“It was really nice to hear his perspective on things as he only graduated from high school a few years ago. He talked about ways that we can continue to make an impact in our communities,” enthuses Adriana Cadogan, a Grade 12 student at Pickering HS and DBEN Student Ambassador.

Cheryl Rock, Chair of DBEN, says the annual conference provides opportunities for both the Student Ambassadors and the students and educators who attend the workshops, “It allows Student Ambassadors to use their voices in a creative way to impact the school and greater community. The conference also shows students that their well-being is supported, and they too can create change when they become empowered and advocate for themselves and others.”

Bianca Smith, a Grade 11 student at O’Neill CVI and DBEN Student Ambassador, concludes “We want to thank the DBEN staff mentors for creating a safe space and teaching us to be proud to share our voices. We couldn’t do this without them.”

Definitely Durham 2021 Seeks Hall of Fame Nominations

Thu, 09 Jul 2020 12:15:00 GMT

Definitely Durham is the Durham District School Board’s (DDSB) Hall of Fame, celebrating and showcasing the successes of former DDSB students and public education in our community.

The Durham District School Board has provided quality public education to thousands of students in our community. In order to showcase and celebrate the successes of public education, the DDSB has established a Hall of Fame, known as, Definitely Durham. Notable former students have an opportunity to be highlighted and recognized with a nomination from community members, former classmates, neighbours or friends.

Nominations are currently open to the public with a deadline to submit by September 4, 2020. Selection criteria, nomination forms and a complete list of details can be found on the Durham District School Board’s website at ddsb.ca.

All nominations will be reviewed by a selection committee with an induction ceremony to take place in February 2021. Inductees will be honoured at the ceremony and a plaque with their name and accomplishment will be installed at the Durham District School Board Education Centre.

Former notable winners include: the Honourable Ed Broadbent, Neil Pasricha, Debra Thompson, Stephen S. Poloz, Perdita Felicien, and the Honourable Mabel M. VanCamp.

The Durham District School Board (DDSB) is responsible for public education in the rural settings of Uxbridge, Brock and Scugog Townships and the urban settings of Ajax, Whitby, Pickering and Oshawa. The DDSB employs 6,900 teaching and educational services staff. With 133 elementary and secondary schools and learning centres, the DDSB accommodates more than 70,000 regular day students and thousands more who take advantage of a wide variety of continuing education and adult credit courses. More information can be found on the DDSB’s website at www.ddsb.ca. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @DurhamDSB, Instagram @durhamschools and YouTube at DurhamDSB.

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Willows Walk Public School Leads Local Effort for Earth Day Cleanup

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 20:30:00 GMT

Willows Walk Public School has demonstrated its commitment to environmental stewardship by organizing a successful Earth Day cleanup event on April 22. Staff and students enthusiastically participated in collecting garbage in and around their school yard, resulting in an impressive haul of 223 pounds of litter gathered in less than an hour.

The initiative, led by the passionate educators and students at Willows Walk PS, aimed to raise awareness about the importance of keeping the environment clean and protecting local ecosystems. The enthusiastic participation of both students and staff underscored the school's dedication to instilling values of environmental responsibility in its community members.

"We are incredibly proud of our students and staff for their dedication to making a positive impact on our environment," said Sandra Makris, Principal of Willows Walk Public School. "Events like these not only help to beautify our school grounds but also foster a sense of environmental consciousness and civic pride among our students."

The cleanup efforts received additional support from Regional Councillor Steve Yamada and staff from Metrolinx, who generously provided the necessary resources for the day's initiatives. Their presence and assistance further emphasized the collaborative spirit of the community in working toward a cleaner and greener future.

The success of Willows Walk PS's Earth Day cleanup serves as a testament to the power of collective action in addressing environmental challenges at the local level. By engaging students, staff, and community partners, the school continues to inspire positive change and foster a culture of environmental responsibility within its community.

GLSEN Day of Silence

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 16:15:00 GMT

In honour of pride month, the SAC team is taking part in the GLSEN Day of Silence where LGBTQ+ students and allies from all around take a vow of silence to protest the harmful effects of harassment and discrimination of LGBTQ+ people in school.

To show our support, we encourage AHS students to change their student account profile picture or social media accounts for one day on June 11th to one of the three designs created and attached.

For more information regarding the Day of Silence, please visit www.glsen.org

SCC Nominations

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 17:15:00 GMT

The School Community Council (SCC) supports student achievement and well-being through an advisory role with the school principal. SCC also supports parent engagement and communication between home and school. More information can be found at https://www.ddsb.ca/en/family-and-community-support/school-community-councils.aspx. Parents and caregivers can stay up to date with their school by subscribing to the news and alerts feed. We welcome your involvement in our SCC at Ajax HS. Our inaugural meeting for the 2021-22 school year will be on Tuesday September 28 starting at 7pm. All meetings will be via Google Meet. At our first meeting we will be holding elections. Should you be interested in any executive position (Chair, Vice Chair, or Secretary), please complete the nomination form (attached) and send to Eleanor McIntosh, Principal at eleanor.mcintosh@ddsb.ca by Monday September 27^th. We look forward to seeing you.

Weekly Memo for May 19-23

Tue, 20 May 2025 12:45:00 GMT

Please find the Weekly Memo for May 19- 23

Empower Her Conference: Reigniting Inspiration and Drive for Young Black Females

Fri, 03 May 2024 15:15:00 GMT

In its triumphant third year, the Empower Her Conference once again ignited inspiration and drive across elementary schools within the Durham District School Board (DDSB). Designed to empower young girls proudly identifying as Black in Grades 6, 7, and 8, this conference has emerged as a transformative platform, fostering enriching dialogue, fresh insights, and invaluable experiences.

Crafted with the intent to elevate, motivate, and amplify the voices of future leaders, the Empower Her Conference stands as a beacon of empowerment in our community. It offers students a rare opportunity to engage with influential Black female mentors, providing guidance and inspiration on their journey from girlhood to womanhood.

“The Empower Her Conference is more than just an event; it's a catalyst for change,” says Kerron Slack, organizer of the Empower Her Conference and Vice-Principal at Eagle Ridge Public School. “We believe in championing empowerment and fostering a legacy of strength, resilience, and boundless potential among young Black girls.”

Throughout the day, students experienced a plethora of uplifting, identity-affirming experiences, including meaningful connections and mentorship opportunities. From interactive workshops to engaging discussions, the conference provided a platform for students to explore their identity, embrace their unique talents, and envision a future filled with endless possibilities.

“We are incredibly proud of the impact the Empower Her Conference continues to have on our students,” says Camille Williams-Taylor, Director of Education of the DDSB. “This event exemplifies our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and we look forward to its continued success in the years to come.”

Thank you to all the students and staff who joined us in celebrating empowerment and fostering a legacy of strength, resilience, and boundless potential for young Black girls in our community. Together, we can inspire the next generation of leaders to reach their highest potential.

About Empower Her Conference: The Empower Her Conference is an annual event aimed at empowering young girls proudly identifying as Black in Grades 6, 7, and 8 within the Durham District School Board (DDSB). Through enriching dialogue, fresh insights, and invaluable experiences, the conference provides a platform for students to explore their identity, embrace their unique talents, and envision a future filled with endless possibilities.

Weekly Memo for September 23- 27

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 15:30:00 GMT

Weekly Memo for September 23- 27

Attention Graduates!

Fri, 30 Apr 2021 14:45:00 GMT

The deadline to order Cap and Gowns has been extended until the end of May!

Please make sure that you log into your School Cash Online account to place your order.

Unnamed North Whitby PS Boundary Approved

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 19:00:00 GMT

On January 18, 2021, Board of Trustees approved the boundaries for Unnamed North Whitby PS, effective September 2021.

Please see attached for a map outlining the approved boundaries.

For more information, the January 18, 2021 Board Report can be found on the Board website at https://www.ddsb.ca/en/about-ddsb/boundary-and-program-reviews.aspx#Unnamed-North-Whitby-PS-Boundary-Review

Labour Action Updates

Sun, 20 Nov 2022 22:45:00 GMT

For more information on Labour Action in the DDSB, please view our Labour Action Updates page.

Ajax HS January 2022 SCC Meeting Minutes

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 15:45:00 GMT

Please find the Ajax High School January 2022. SCC Meeting Minutes Attached.

DRHD Holiday Safety Reminders

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 21:00:00 GMT

The season of social gatherings and get-togethers is here, but this year, it will be quite different. With COVID-19 still a big part of our lives, we all have to continue doing our part to protect each other by remembering to follow all public health measures. The safest way to celebrate with family and friends outside of your household this year is to gather virtually.

Please view the attached Holiday Safety Reminders from Durham Region Health Department.

Students Return to In-Person Learning on Monday, February 8, 2021

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 22:15:00 GMT

Earlier today, the Ministry of Education announced that students in Durham Region will return to in-person learning on Monday, February 8, 2021. This decision was made by the Minister of Education and the Chief Medical Officer of Health for Ontario. Please click the links below to view the updates for elementary and secondary schools.

Weekly memo: October 31- November 4

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 19:30:00 GMT

Please find below AHS Weekly Memo for October 31- November 4

Weekly Memo for April 15-19

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 14:45:00 GMT

Please find the Weekly Memo for April 15-19

A Night of Culture, Community and Celebration: Lunar New Year at O'Neill Collegiate

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 19:45:00 GMT

The spirit of celebration, learning and community was on full display at O’Neill Collegiate and Vocational Institute as the Durham East Asian Network in Education (DEANE) hosted a spectacular Lunar New Year celebration in honour of the Year of the Horse.

The evening was a vibrant showcase of culture, tradition, and student talent. Families, staff, students and community members gathered to celebrate the richness and beauty of Lunar New Year, deepening their understanding and appreciation of East Asian cultures through music, dance, and shared experiences.

The performance portion of the evening began with a remarkable joint band performance by Roland Michener and Sir William Stephenson Public Schools. The audience was further captivated by a stunning fan dance performed by the Dance Crew from Lester B. Pearson Public School, whose precision filled the auditorium with energy and pride.

Adding to the celebration, students from Roland Michener Public School delighted guests with songs by the Tuesday Tunes. The evening culminated in a breathtaking lion dance and kung fu demonstration by YMT Lion Dance; a spectacular performance that beautifully honoured centuries-old traditions.

Following the performances, guests gathered to connect over a feast of Asian cuisine, continuing the celebration through food, conversation and community.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to DEANE for organizing such a meaningful and inspiring event and for its continued commitment to elevating cultural understanding within our schools.

The Lunar New Year celebration at O’Neill Collegiate was a powerful reminder that when we come together to celebrate one another’s histories and traditions, we enrich the entire community.

DDSB announces new agreement with 4 bargaining units

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 13:15:00 GMT

The Durham District School Board (DDSB) announced today that is has reached an agreement with four bargaining units comprised of the Board’s Educational Assistants, Custodial Maintenance, Continuing Education, and Office/Clerical/Technical staffs represented by CUPE Local 218.

The DDSB Board of Trustees and CUPE Local 218 have ratified each agreement.

“These new agreements recognize the invaluable contributions of our support staff and administrative personnel in shaping the educational journey of our students,” said Donna Edwards, Chair of the DDSB Board of Trustees. “These [agreements] showcase the power of working together to achieve common goals and will benefit everyone in our school community by helping to foster an environment of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.”

The DDSB remains committed to working with all education partners to provide outstanding public education to more than 76,000 regular day students and thousands more enrolled in continuing education and adult credit courses.

The Durham District School Board (DDSB) is responsible for public education in the rural settings of Uxbridge, Brock and Scugog Townships and the urban settings of Ajax, Whitby, Pickering, and Oshawa. The DDSB employs 10,000 staff in a wide variety of roles and is one of the largest employers in Durham Region. With 136 elementary and secondary schools and learning centres, the DDSB accommodates more than 76,000 regular day students and thousands more who take advantage of a wide variety of continuing education and adult credit courses. More information can be found on the DDSB’s website at ddsb.ca. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @ddsbschools, Instagram @ddsbschools and YouTube at DurhamDSB.

Commencement 2021 - Save the Date!

Mon, 17 May 2021 13:30:00 GMT

Commencement for the 2021 Graduating Class will be June 29th, from 10am.

Weekly Memo for March 27-31

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 19:15:00 GMT

Please find weekly memo for March 27-31

School Naming Committee seeks submissions for Unnamed Beaverton Public School

Fri, 05 May 2023 19:15:00 GMT

Every time the DDSB undergoes a naming process for our schools, we aim to make the process as transparent, equitable, accessible, and respectful as possible.

This is your opportunity to get involved!

The School Naming Committee is seeking new name submissions for the Unnamed Beaverton Public School. Submit your idea(s) by filling out the survey no later than 4 p.m. on Friday, May 19.

Criteria for New Names: Submissions must support the Board’s commitment to Indigenous rights, human rights, equity, and anti-oppressive principles and practices. The name of a school must not interfere with a student’s right to an education free from discrimination or discriminatory barriers.

As highlighted in the DDSB School Naming Policy, the name of a school may/must be:

The name of a renowned individual of historical significance whose contribution to the local community, Canadian society, or to the world is recognized and valued and would be seen by the community as representative of the values of the DDSB; or
The name of a geographic landmark associated with the location of the school including a street name and the name of the community including any historical name for the community or area; or
The name of a significant Canadian event.
In no case shall any school be named after a corporation, a sitting politician, a current employee of the Board, a member of the Board, or a member of the immediate family of the foregoing.

Naming Process: The School Naming Committee receives, reviews, and considers submissions from the broader school community, then narrows submissions for further consultation as outlined in the Procedure.

Anticipated Timeline (subject to change):

May 19 – First consultation survey closes.
May 25 – The School Naming Committee will review and consider submissions and narrow them for a second round of community consultation.
June 6 – Second consultation survey closes.
June 8 – The School Naming Committee will review feedback and recommend to the Board of Trustees the proposed new name. In accordance with the Naming of Schools Procedure, the top three choices from the School Naming Committee will be presented in either scenario.

Thank you for sharing your thoughts and feedback. We look forward to your participation. For those who wish to submit names via telephone, please contact Sylvie Niles at 905-666-6376.

Return to School Update

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 00:15:00 GMT

Dear Parents/Guardians,

This afternoon, we learned of the Government of Ontario’s plan for the return to school in September. In that plan, we learned today that the Durham District School Board (DDSB) will see a full return to school at the elementary level and a hybrid return for the secondary level.

The return to school will include enhanced health and safety protocols, based on the recommendations of public health officials. Students in Grades 4 to 12 will be required to wear non-medical or cloth masks indoors in school, including in hallways and during classes. Students in Kindergarten to Grade 3 will be encouraged to wear masks in indoor spaces.

There are still several details that we are waiting to receive from the Ministry of Education that we will need to review. In this e-mail, we are providing you with the information that we know to be accurate. We understand that families will have additional questions and we have attached a Frequently Asked Questions document to this message.

The Ministry of Education has scheduled a meeting with DDSB staff next week to discuss planning for the return to school. It is our goal that after the meeting to continue our work with the Durham Region Health Department to confirm details within our return to school plan and will share that information with you.

Elementary Schools (Kindergarten to Grade 8)

Elementary school students will attend school 5 days per week, with students grouped together in a cohort for the full day, including recess and lunch. Enhanced health and safety protocols will be in place and the full range of elementary curriculum will be provided.

Specific details about bell times will be provided once we have more information about school busing.

Secondary Schools (Grades 9 to 12)

Secondary schools in Durham will open with a hybrid model that combines in-person and remote learning. Students will be placed in groups of approximately 15 students, attending on alternate schedules. The DDSB will be reviewing programming for students with a high level of special education needs who may require daily attendance and instruction at the secondary level.

Specific details about when students will attend in-person and bell times will be provided once we receive more information.

Details on Opting-Out of In-Person Learning

Families will be able to decide if their child(ren) will return to in-person learning at a school site or if they will be opting-out of in-person learning.

Direction from the Ministry of Education indicates that students may not necessarily be able to move between remote and in-person learning, and families should anticipate the possibility to be wait-listed if they change their minds.

Students engaging in remote learning may not participate with students and teachers from their own school. We may be required to create virtual classrooms where students across the district in similar grades are attached to a teacher who will deliver online instruction.

Families will be receiving an e-mail on Friday July 31 on how to opt-out their child(ren). If families do not opt-out by the deadline of Wednesday August 12, it is assumed that their child(ren) will be attending school in-person.

Bus Transportation Survey

An online sign-up for bus transportation will be required this year. Families who qualify for bus transportation will receive a separate e-mail next week with the survey link and more information. They will be required to complete the online sign-up for each of their children in order for them to ride the bus.

Return to School Website

We are in the process of launching a Return to School page and Frequently Asked Questions at www.ddsb.ca that will provide updated information on a regular basis. This page will be launched in the coming days.

Health and Safety

The DDSB is developing a comprehensive return to school guide based on the direction of the Government of Ontario and in consultation with the Durham Region Health Department to help make our schools safe for everyone to return in September. Some of the steps that we will be taking include frequent handwashing protocols, COVID-19 protocols, enhanced cleaning and disinfection of schools, daily self-assessment requirements and other measures.

As we work towards the return to school in September, we will continue to prioritize the health, safety and well-being of students and staff. Thank you for your continued patience and understanding as we carefully plan for the return to school, working within government direction and the public health recommendations. Please continue to stay safe.

Sincerely,

Norah Marsh

Acting Director of Education

Unnamed North Ajax French Immersion PS Boundary Approved

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 19:00:00 GMT

On January 18, 2021, Board of Trustees approved the boundaries for Unnamed North Ajax FI PS, effective September 2021.

Please see attached area map for an outline of the approved boundaries.

For more information, the January 18, 2021 Board Report can be found on the Board website at https://www.ddsb.ca/en/about-ddsb/boundary-and-program-reviews.aspx#Unnamed-Ajax-FI-PS-Boundary-Review

DDSB Appoints Acting Superintendent of Equitable Education

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 18:15:00 GMT

The Durham District School Board is pleased to announce that Martine Robinson will be placed in the role of Acting Superintendent of Equitable Education, effective September 1, 2023. She will assume responsibility of the Pickering (Dunbarton and Pine Ridge) Family of Schools and will also oversee Indigenous Education and Outdoor Education.

Martine is an experienced leader who was placed in the pool of Supervisory Officer candidates in June of this year. Most recently the Principal at Winchester PS, Martine has been an educator for over 25 years and has served in various school-based and central leadership roles across the DDSB over the last 18 years, bringing with her a deep understanding of the entire District. She is an engaging leader who fosters strong and collaborative relationships that value and promote equitable outcomes for all. She has demonstrated throughout her career a commitment to uplifting the voices of others and prioritizing the human rights of those in our system.

We are pleased to welcome Martine to the DDSB senior team and look forward to a successful 2023-2024 school year.

Semester 2 Timetable Changes

Fri, 10 Jan 2020 14:45:00 GMT

Please see the attached outline for Semester 2 Timetable changes.

Thank you

Weekly Memo for January 19-23

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 13:15:00 GMT

Please find the Weekly Memo for January 19-23

DDSB celebrates International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia

Wed, 17 May 2023 17:45:00 GMT

DDSB celebrates International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia

Check out the DDSB’s YouTube channel to view the video statement from Director of Education Camille Williams-Taylor

The Durham District School Board (DDSB) is proud of our commitment to fostering inclusive and supportive learning and working environments for all students and staff. As part of our ongoing efforts to champion Indigenous rights, human rights and equity, the DDSB celebrates the raising of the Progress Pride Flag across all our schools and workplaces leading into the upcoming Pride Month.

The DDSB has been raising the Pride Flag since 2015, symbolizing our unwavering support of our 2SLGBTQI students, staff, and community members. It is also representative of the commitment of strong allies to stand up against prejudice and bigotry toward 2SLGBTQI communities. It represents a powerful affirmation of the rights, identities, and experiences of 2SLGBTQI peoples. It also represents our firm rejection of exclusion, discrimination, violence, and hate.

The DDSB believes that every student deserves an education that affirms their identity, values their talents, and celebrates their achievements and contributions. Every staff member of the DDSB family deserves to come to work, engage in learning, and enjoy their work networks with pride and dignity.

Raising the Progress Pride Flag is a powerful community building experience that encourages dialogue, awareness, respect, and inclusion.

As we look to the promise of the future, we should consider lessons of the past. In 2009, UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown issued an official apology for the treatment of famous mathematician and inventor of the modern computer Alan Turing. Despite his contributions to his country, and the work that he did to protect liberty and democracy during the Second World War, Turing was persecuted because of his identity as a gay man. Many years later, the British government issued an official apology to acknowledge the debt of gratitude that he is owed and to recognize the genius of his work and the injustice that he experienced.

The DDSB recognizes that promoting rights and inclusion goes beyond raising the Progress Pride Flag. We are keenly aware of the rise in homophobic, biphobic, and transphobic comments and conduct and the ongoing harm to 2SLGBTQI students, families, staff, and community members. On this day and every day, we have a responsibility to act. We continue to challenge prejudice and stereotypes and work toward building an inclusive system that authentically and intentionally includes and affirms Two-Spirit and LGBTQI peoples and is free from all forms of discrimination and hate.

We will continue to work collaboratively with members of our communities to dismantle the barriers erected by ignorance, hate, and fear. Learning combats ignorance, compassion replaces hate, and community neutralizes fear.

As the DDSB raises the Progress Pride Flag at our schools and work sites, we encourage community members to join us in this celebration of inclusion. Together, we can learn, we act with compassion, and we can build a community where every person can be successful, is cared for, can be who they are, and know that they belong here at the DDSB.

Update on the OSSLT

Tue, 02 Mar 2021 21:30:00 GMT

This message is to provide you with an update on the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT) for students in Grades 10 and 11. You may be aware that EQAO is piloting a new OSSLT this year and school boards have the option of choosing to participate.

After considering a variety of scenarios, the Durham District School Board has made the decision not to participate this year due to the challenges brought upon by the pandemic and the requirements to administer the test.

As a District, we made the decision in September that we would prioritize student well-being throughout the year. For that reason, we eliminated final summative assessment tasks (exams) to focus on instructional time. Our goal is to ensure that as much time as possible is focused on classroom instruction and learning.

Furthermore, the organization of the OSSLT has often required the use of occasional teachers to support the administration of the test. Currently there is a teacher shortage in Ontario and we require all occasional teachers to assist in ensuring regular classes are staffed. With the new health protocols introduced two weeks ago, we are finding that more teachers are being required to self-isolate and our focus as a District is on providing the stability of classroom learning to the greatest extent possible. As a result, it is not in the best interest of students to take on new and voluntary initiatives such as piloting a new test at this time.

It is for these reasons that we will not be participating in the voluntary opportunity to pilot the new OSSLT assessment. Critical literacy instruction remains a focus of instruction in our schools and every secondary school has a literacy plan in place that they are working on.

On behalf of our school teams, DDSB would like to thank you for your continued support during this time. Students across the District have had to cope with so much this year, and we are grateful to them and the staff who serve them as we work together to prioritize the health, safety and well-being of all members of our school communities.

Minister's letter to Ontario parents and guardians

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 17:45:00 GMT

Ministry of Education
Minister
315 Front Street West
Toronto ON M7A 0B8

Ministère de l'Éducation
Ministre
315, rue Front Ouest
Toronto ON M7A 0B8

Dear parents,

For the first time in nearly a generation, our government successfully negotiated agreements with all teachers’ unions and averted strikes in schools. This allowed us to deliver on our promise to parents to bring stability to classrooms and keep kids in class.

As kids benefit from three more years of uninterrupted learning, I have heard from many of you, teachers and students alike, about concerns about the alarming rise of youth vaping in schools and the persistent use of cellphones as a distraction from learning in class.

That is why we are rolling out Canada’s most comprehensive plan to counter these threats.

To help reduce distractions in our schools, starting this September, we are denying cellphone usage during instructional time so that students can focus on getting back to basics and learning foundational skills like reading, writing and math.

Our youngest learners in kindergarten to Grade 6, who may have phones, will now be required to keep phones on silent and out of sight for the duration of the day.

For students in Grades 7 to 12, phones can be with the student. However, they will only be permitted during instructional time if explicitly allowed by the educator.

We will also commit to having report cards include comments on students’ distraction levels in class. We recognize that some parents want to communicate with their children during school, and the policies listed above will still permit that during non-instructional time or when an educator gives permission.

When it comes to cellphones, Ontario’s policy is: out of sight and out of mind.

We are also removing social media websites from all school networks and devices to help strengthen in-person relationships, communication and social-emotional skills.

We have also announced a strict anti-vaping policy in schools where parents are immediately informed, and the vapes in a student’s possession will be given up and disposed of. There are immediate consequences for students caught in possession of illegal substances, and Public Health Units can also be engaged to support education, prevention and enforcement, when necessary. We are also providing funding to schools to install vape detectors so they can better enforce these new rules.

We are also increasing wrap-around supports for students to support learning, addictive behaviours and implementation, as well as dedicated training for teachers and supports for 2 parents on how best to manage this change. I encourage you to read the updated Provincial Code of Conduct that outlines these changes.

No matter how strong the policy is, we can’t do this alone.

To truly change behaviour, we are asking for your support and collaboration to hold conversations at home about the new expectations and the importance of respecting school staff and the rules as we head into September.

Change will come when we all work together and stand by teachers, principals, and education workers as they implement these new measures. Your co-operation will help ensure students can get back to basics, focus on their studies, and prepare for the jobs of tomorrow.

By doing so, we restore common sense, where the focus remains on academic achievement and the safety of your child.

Thank you,
The Honourable Stephen Lecce
Minister of Education

Weekly Memo Week for March 3-7

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 13:30:00 GMT

Please find the Weekly Memo for March 3-7

DDSB Transition from Quadmesters to a Semester Schedule

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Earlier today, the Ministry of Education announced that secondary schools can move back to a semester schedule (with students taking up to 4 courses a day for half the school year) from the current quadmester schedule (with students taking up to 2 courses a day for a quarter of the school year). As a result of this announcement, all DDSB secondary schools will be transitioning to a regular semester schedule at the beginning of Semester 2 in February, which is the mid-year mark of this school year. Please note that bell times will remain the same as they are connected to student transportation.

We anticipate the shift back to a semester schedule will have a positive impact on engagement for students, along with providing further stability for the remainder of the school year. We have appreciated everyone’s efforts to make the quadmester schedule work during the height of the pandemic. However, it was not designed or intended for long-term use and with the low level of COVID-19 cases at secondary schools and the high vaccination rate among secondary students, the transition back to a semester model marks the achievement of another milestone on the path to creating a more normal secondary experience for students. In consultation with the Durham Region Health Department, we will continue to ensure appropriate health and safety measures are in place.

Secondary schools will begin re-timetabling student schedules, where required, with the goal of maintaining student course selections wherever possible. Schools will provide additional information to families regarding Semester 2 timetables in the new year.

We also wanted to share with you two other pieces of news from today’s announcement:

Travel Requirements: For those planning to travel internationally over the holiday break, we want to take this opportunity to remind families of restrictions currently in place. As per the Durham Region Health Department and Government of Canada direction, unvaccinated students returning from travel outside Canada must not attend school or childcare for 14 days after their return. Fully vaccinated students who have travelled outside of Canada and meet the requirements to be exempt from federal quarantine (including passing a pre-entry PCR Covid-19 test, more information from the Government of Canada here), are able to attend school upon their return. Please also review the Government of Canada’s Travel Advice and Advisories FAQ ahead of any international travel.
Rapid Take Home Tests for the Winter Break: The Ministry will be providing school boards with enough test kits so that each student can take home a pack of five rapid tests to be used over the winter break to support a safe return to school in January. We will be sharing more information including how tests will be distributed when we receive it.

We ask for your patience as your child’s school works through this process. On behalf of the team at the DDSB, our sincere thanks for all that you have done to support your child’s success during this extenuating time.

DDSB Appoints Norah Marsh as Director of Education

Tue, 03 Nov 2020 01:45:00 GMT

DDSB Appoints Norah Marsh as Director of Education

The Board of Trustees have appointed Norah Marsh as the next Director of Education for the Durham District School Board.

Ms. Marsh is an innovative change agent with thirteen years as an executive leader in two different Eastern Ontario school boards and as the CEO of the Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO), a Provincial Crown Agency.

She has a long history as an advocate for public education and has been a recognized provincial leader in education – being elected provincially on several occasions to represent senior educational leaders, including serving as President of the Ontario Public Supervisory Officers’ Association and Chair of the Ontario Institute for Education Leadership.

Her professional history demonstrates an expertise in mobilizing knowledge networks locally, provincially, nationally, and internationally. She has a reputation for strength in leadership while creating authentic collaborative cultures. Her unrelenting focus on equity, inclusion, student engagement, well-being, and achievement will serve the communities of the Durham District School Board well.

Ms. Marsh began her educational career in 1991 as a secondary school teacher. From the beginning, she has always been an active community member and has volunteered for the United Way, Big Brothers Big Sisters and other grassroots community agencies dedicated to combatting opportunity gaps for families.

The Board of Trustees conducted a national search and determined that Ms. Marsh, who has been the DDSB’s Acting Director of Education since January 2020 is the best person to lead the DDSB into the future. This appointment is effective November 2, 2020.

Quotes:

“We are very pleased to appoint Norah Marsh as the DDSB’s permanent Director of Education. Since joining the DDSB a year ago, Norah has exemplified educational leadership and has skillfully led the district in an acting capacity during this period of immense change. The Board of Trustees looks forward to continuing to work with Norah to advance our strategic priorities and support the diverse needs of all students.”

– Chris Braney, Chair, Durham District School Board

“I am humbled by the opportunity to continue to serve with the senior team of the Durham District School Board in the best interests of students and equitable outcomes for all. The DDSB has a lot to be proud of in terms of its innovative work and I am thrilled to work with the dedicated DDSB staff as we move forward to best position students for lifelong learning and success. I thank the Board of Trustees for their trust in me.”

– Norah Marsh, Director of Education, Durham District School Board

The Durham District School Board (DDSB) is responsible for public education in the rural settings of Uxbridge, Brock and Scugog Townships and the urban settings of Ajax, Whitby, Pickering and Oshawa. The DDSB employs 6,900 teaching and educational services staff. With 133 elementary and secondary schools and learning centres, the DDSB accommodates more than 70,000 regular day students and thousands more who take advantage of a wide variety of continuing education and adult credit courses. More information can be found on the DDSB’s website at www.ddsb.ca. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @DurhamDSB, Instagram @durhamschools and YouTube at DurhamDSB.

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Elevating Voices Across DDSB Communities

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 19:30:00 GMT

MEND and DDSB celebrated Islamic Heritage Month with virtual community events

In Canada, the month of October is known as Islamic Heritage Month. To celebrate the valuable contributions made by Muslim people in Canada, the Muslim Educators’ Network of Durham (MEND) hosted a series of virtual community events that spanned the entire month.

“This year’s theme is Elevating Voices. A real sense of reclaiming voices was important, not only within the conditions of being disconnected from one another as a result of COVID-19, but also elevating those voices, such as those from our Black Muslim communities,” noted Shahana Arain, Principal of Alexander Graham Bell Public School in Ajax.

Arain co-chairs MEND with Imran Syed, Principal of Sir John A. MacDonald Public School in Pickering.

Engaging and Supporting DDSB Communities

Events included a variety of relevant and engaging topics and activities such as Family Fitness Night, Storytime with MEND, Elevating the Voices of our Black Muslim Community, Taking Care of the Mind and Soul During COVID-19, and Navigating the Online Classroom. Events ran from October 1 to October 29 and were hosted on a virtual meeting platform.

In the Elevating the Voices of our Black Muslim Community event, students, educators and community members who identify as Black and/or Muslim engaged in an online panel discussion about their experiences and suggested action items to make change in their communities. If you missed this event, the discussion can be viewed on the MEND YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VCVuB109VvQ&t=297s.

Kiarah, a Grade 8 student at Frenchman’s Bay Public School in Pickering, spoke in the panel discussion about her experiences as a Black student and community member. “It was important to speak on the MEND panel because I want to raise awareness and make a change in how the Black community is perceived in the eyes of others. I also wanted to learn about others on the panel and their experiences with Islamophobia since I didn’t know anything about their issues and experiences,” explains Kiarah.

Kiarah adds, “I hope that attendees learned to be more conscious with their actions, and that almost every Black person has had an experience with racism. I also want them to know that by learning and making an effort to learn they are really helping the cause and I really admire their bravery.”

Encouraging Student Voice and Community Growth

“Islamic Heritage Month is a time where students who identify [as having Islamic heritage] can propel their voices and shine in knowing that they and their stories matter. It is also a great time of reflection and appreciation that all members of the Durham District School Board (DDSB) community are valued and can learn and grow from one another,” says Arain.

She concludes, “We continue to be ever so grateful for the support of our families, supporting networks, community partners, and allies in sharing in the work of inclusion with us. Islamic Heritage Month 2020 has been a collective effort of DDSB staff, students, and parents all with a will and desire to support student success and well-being.”

Find out more about MEND by visiting http://www.wearemend.ca/ and following @MEND_DDSB on Twitter.

Weekly Memo Dec 4-8

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 14:00:00 GMT

Please find the weekly Memo For Dec 4 - 8

Answering your questions about Proms

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 19:45:00 GMT

This past week, we have received many inquiries about end of year celebrations for graduating students, especially proms. We have put together a list of some of the most common questions and answers.

How do schools celebrate graduating students?

All DDSB secondary schools host a commencement event, or a completion event, usually in June. This is a celebration of learning; students have the opportunity to come together and celebrate the completion of their secondary school programs. There can be speeches and awards, but most importantly, students are recognized for their accomplishments by their friends, staff, families and community. This is the celebration of an important milestone in their learning journey.

How is Commencement different from “Prom”

“Prom” is commonly considered a party for the graduating class. It usually happens outside of the school day. It is often organized by a combination of students and staff and can be held at an offsite venue. Students buy tickets to cover the cost, and attendance is restricted to the graduating class. Prom is considered an extracurricular activity. It is not part of the formal curriculum and relies on volunteer staff support to be planned and supervised.

Does every school do the same thing?

No, prom looks different at every school. Decisions about school-based events are made at the school level. When the prom is organized by the school, Principals are responsible for ensuring that the event, like all extra-curricular activities, is student-focused and reflects the unique nature of the school community.

There are also differences in practice around school-organized prom events throughout the province. Some school boards do not have school-organized prom events in any of their secondary schools, and some have a mixture of school-organized and community-organized events. In the DDSB, at least one school moved to a community-organized celebration model, which has been running successfully for approximately 10 years.

Did the DDSB cancel proms?

No, there has been no district-wide cancellation of all proms at the DDSB. Three DDSB secondary schools recently sent a letter to their school community explaining that they were looking to make changes to the practice of organizing proms, shifting away from the past practice of school organized events.

Why did these three schools take this approach?

The principals exercised professional judgement, considered the safety concerns, the time involved in planning, the growing complexity in expectations, the challenges of safe supervision, and the increasing concern about liability and risk to students. Recognizing that proms are handled differently in many school communities, they felt there was an opportunity to change the practice in their school community.

Did the DDSB tell them they had to reintroduce prom?

The DDSB recognizes that proms are school-based activities. The district asked the schools to take a pause in the transition planning to allow time to:

Reflect on feedback from students, families, and staff
Create space for co-planning and dialogue
Ensure any decisions align with school values and priorities

It’s not a cancellation—it’s a commitment to thoughtful collaboration.

Will proms be reinstated in these schools?

The schools have received plenty of feedback, are reflecting on what has been shared, and are working with students and staff on a path forward. Recognizing that there are alternative approaches being used in our district, there will be time to explore these models and find a solution that works best for each school community. Schools will keep their local community informed.

Respectful Feedback

We deeply appreciate the feedback received so far but are concerned about messages that target individuals. We ask that all communication remain respectful and constructive. Comments that are hateful, libelous, or slanderous are not acceptable and detract from the shared goal of building a positive school experience. We’re committed to working together to find a path forward that reflects our community’s values.

RAMS spiritwear

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 14:30:00 GMT

RAMS spiritwear

Schools Closed to In-Person Learning Following April Break

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 22:45:00 GMT

Earlier today, the Government of Ontario, on the advice of the Chief Medical Officer of Health announced that all schools in Ontario will be closed to in-person learning after the April break due to the rapid increase in COVID-19 cases, the increasing risks posed to the public by COVID-19 variants, and the massive spike in hospital admissions. We will be notifying families of an official return date once it is announced by the Ministry of Education.

This means that students will be learning remotely from home until further notice.

Elementary students will receive more information from educators on the morning of Monday, April 19, 2021 and should expect that classes will start on Monday afternoon.

Secondary schools will be running in a virtual format with all students being required to log into their morning classes every day. Please note that Monday, April 19, 2021 is a credit completion day for Quadmester 3 and regular classes as part of Quadmester 4 will start on the morning of Tuesday, April 20, 2021. Educators will provide additional information to students, if needed.

In addition, most students with special education needs will be learning remotely during this period. The Ministry of Education has indicated the seriousness of the current shut-down and has directed that schools need to limit the overall movement of students and staff. For that reason, students who are in congregated special education programs will be at home for Monday, April 19 and Tuesday, April 20 so that school staff may assess each student’s Individual Education Plan (IEP) and work with families to develop a plan for remote learning wherever possible during the closure period. This approach is different to January given that the situation has changed with the introduction of new COVID-19 variants.

We would like to take this time to remind families that there is also a provincewide stay-at-home order in effect. The order requires everyone to stay at home with exceptions for permitted purposes or activities, such as going to the grocery store or pharmacy, accessing health care services (including getting vaccinated), for outdoor exercise, or for work where the work cannot be done remotely.

While we understand that this new closure is disappointing news for some and disruptive for everyone, our school teams will be doing our best to support you and your children. Please note that schools are closed for the duration of the April break and staff will be unable to respond this week. On behalf of all DDSB staff, we thank you for your patience and understanding during this challenging time.

Thank you,

Durham District School Board

Weekly Memo for Nov 24- 28

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 14:00:00 GMT

Please find the Weekly Memo for Nov 24- 28

Statement on the Return of Books to Library Circulation

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 16:00:00 GMT

The DDSB recognizes that there has been a request for more information concerning the review and temporary removal of The Great Bear and two other Forest of Reading books from our library collection, following concerns from Indigenous families that were brought forward related to Indigenous stereotypes and terminology that could perpetuate discrimination.

An accelerated review process allowed us to engage in conversations with some members of the local Indigenous community. Those discussions have placed the focus on the importance of making books by Indigenous authors available to students, particularly Indigenous students based on providing choice. In response to this feedback, we will be returning the books to library circulation.

We recognize that the Indigenous families who came forward did so with the intent to ensure we meet their children’s needs. We also understand that for many families, the importance of accessing books that reflect Indigenous lived realities is critically important. In the coming weeks, we will engage in a more fulsome consultation with treaty partners, the DDSB Indigenous Advisory Circle, Indigenous staff and Indigenous families on how to best manage different responses to literature and ensure that we serve the needs of Indigenous families.

We value Indigenous literature and have introduced a compulsory Indigenous course so that all graduates of the DDSB leave with a better understanding of Indigenous lives and experiences. We deeply respect the work of David A. Robertson, along with those who decide to become authors to inspire children and youth. We have offered to meet with the authors to engage in further discussion.

As we move forward, we are committed to engaging the plurality of Indigenous voices within the district.

Message from the Minister of Education

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 16:30:00 GMT

The Minister of Education has released a message to parents/guardians for the start of the school year. You can read his message in the attachments below.

Update on In-Person Learning for Wednesday

Tue, 18 Jan 2022 23:45:00 GMT

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Given the extraordinary circumstances that we find ourselves in, we are writing to share some information with respect to the approach we anticipate taking tomorrow (Wednesday, January 19) morning for school operations.

At this time, we anticipate that schools will be open. Municipalities have indicated to us that snow removal may take up to 72 hours in some situations, but that progress continues to be made. Please know that there is the possibility for delays to occur and it may take longer to get to school.

As we previously communicated given the current pandemic environment and now, snow conditions, there is always the possibility for individual school closures to ensure that children remain safe and have appropriate levels of supervision. In these situations, your child’s school would communicate with you directly.

School custodians have done an incredible job in working to clear snow on school property. We are truly appreciative of their efforts and of our entire school teams to prepare schools for students to learn in-person.

For those that take student transportation, there is the possibility that individual or zone-based cancellations may take place. You can always visit the DSTS website for more information on cancellations.

If school buses are cancelled due to weather in your zone:

Elementary schools will remain open to in-person learning unless otherwise indicated.
Secondary students in the zone must stay home and will switch to a virtual learning day.

As usual, this information will be posted on DDSB social media channels and websites by 7am. More information on specific zones can be found on the inclement weather page on the DSTS website.

With the expected return to in-person learning, please ensure to complete your daily self-screening before leaving home for school by visiting: Ontario.ca/SchoolScreening. If your child is sick and/or not feeling well, please do not send them to school under any circumstances. Anyone who has COVID-19 symptoms or has tested positive must self-isolate, regardless of vaccination status and follow the instructions of the self-screener.

We thank you for your patience.

Durham District School Board

Bus Cancellations: ALL ZONES - Tuesday, January 6, 2026

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 11:00:00 GMT

Durham Student Transportation Services have cancelled buses in ALL Zones, 1 (Brock), 2 (Uxbridge), 3 (Scugog) and 4 (Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Oshawa Area), due to road conditions resulting from inclement weather.

All schools are open.

Buses will not operate in Zone 1, 2, 3, or 4 in the morning or in the afternoon.

Students and families can find a list of schools within each weather zone by visiting the Durham Student Transportation Services (DSTS) website or by clicking the links below.

Sex Trafficking Education and Prevention (STEP) Program

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 20:30:00 GMT

Please find the Sex Trafficking Education and Prevention (STEP) Program Information below.

DDSB Appoints New Associate Director of Corporate Services

Fri, 18 Sep 2020 15:15:00 GMT

New Associate Director will provide financial guidance and continued stability during COVID-19

The Durham District School Board (DDSB) is pleased to announce the appointment of David Wright to the position of Associate Director, Corporate Services.

David is an experienced leader in public education with an extensive work history in both public and private sector finance as a Chartered Public Accountant (CPA, CA). His appointment is effective October 5, 2020.

Most recently, David was the Superintendent of Business at the Lakehead District School Board (LDSB), leading the business team as the Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of the Board. He also has served as a Finance Officer at the Ministry of Education, where he effectively collaborated and communicated with staff at school boards across Northwestern Ontario and various Ministry of Education branches.

In his role as Associate Director, Corporate Services, David will be supporting our Information Technology (IT), Business, and Facilities Services teams. Through his comprehensive business and financial experience, David will bring varied perspectives and strategic guidance to the DDSB as we continue to adapt to the ever-changing COVID-19 pandemic.

Quotes:

“The Board of Trustees is excited to welcome David Wright to his new role as Associate Director, Corporate Services. David is an accomplished problem-solver, has a track record of success and will be a welcome addition to the senior leadership team.”

- Chris Braney, Chair of the Board

“David Wright is an experienced and respected leader in public education. We believe he will be an incredible asset to our senior team, placing student learning and well-being at the forefront of responsible financial management along with strong collaborative leadership.”

- Norah Marsh, Acting Director of Education

The Durham District School Board (DDSB) is responsible for public education in the rural settings of Uxbridge, Brock and Scugog Townships and the urban settings of Ajax, Whitby, Pickering and Oshawa. The DDSB employs 6,900 teaching and educational services staff. With 133 elementary and secondary schools and learning centres, the DDSB accommodates more than 70,000 regular day students and thousands more who take advantage of a wide variety of continuing education and adult credit courses. More information can be found on the DDSB’s website at www.ddsb.ca. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @DurhamDSB, Instagram @durhamschools and YouTube at DurhamDSB.

Course Selections for 2021-2022

Fri, 12 Feb 2021 14:15:00 GMT

Course selections for the next school year will open and are available to be submitted as of Feb 16^th. The deadline to submit courses is March 5^th. Students are to complete their course selections through their MyBlueprint account.

Course selection videos, instruction sheets, and other relevant documents will posted to each student’s guidance google classrooms AND on the Ajax High School website as of Feb. 16th

Please contact the guidance department if you have any questions.

Please find Course Selection Resources here.

Weekly memo: November 21-25

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 20:30:00 GMT

Please find below AHS Weekly Memo for November 21-25

Thank you for your partnership

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 15:00:00 GMT

On behalf of the Board of Trustees and staff, thank you for your partnership as we navigated the 2020-2021 school year together.

Have a safe and fun summer!

October SCC Meeting Minutes

Tue, 12 Nov 2019 15:45:00 GMT

Please find the October Meeting Minutes attached.

Return to School Update

Tue, 18 Aug 2020 19:30:00 GMT

Parents/Guardians were sent letters on August 18, 2020 with more information on the return to school, with specific letters being sent to families with child(ren) who are enrolled in either secondary or elementary, in-person or virtual learning. You can review the individual letters here:

The Future of Innovation and Opportunity

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 21:15:00 GMT

DDSB’s Regional Skills Ontario Competition Ignites the Future of Innovation and Opportunity

The Durham District School Board (DDSB) is shaping the future of education by empowering young minds through hands-on, real-world experiences. On February 26, 2025, the Tribute Communities Centre transformed into an electrifying hub of creativity and innovation as DDSB proudly hosted the fourth-annual Regional Skills Ontario Competition—a revolutionary event showcasing the talents and potential of the next generation.

Following an in-class competition that saw engagement from 102 DDSB elementary schools, students representing 72 DDSB schools competed in a diverse array of categories—including robotics, 3D printing, animation, construction, and more—bringing their ideas to life with innovation and technical excellence. This year's competition brought five new contests to the arena such as: Culinary, Electronic Music, Floristry, Prepared Speech, and Workplace Safety.

Over 680 students from Grades 4 to 8 took centre stage, demonstrating remarkable skill, passion, and perseverance. These young visionaries emerged from an impressive field of 22,000 students who competed in an in-class qualification round, proving that curiosity and determination can unlock limitless possibilities.

"DDSB’s Skilled Trades Programming in the Elementary Panel is empowering students like never before, delivering over 22,000 hands-on experiences across 18 sectors and skills. These unique opportunities help students and staff explore career pathways they may not have otherwise considered,” exclaimed Richard Bishop, Community Connected Experiential Learning Facilitator. “With overwhelming enthusiasm from teachers, students, and parents, we are fueling a passion for the trades. Next year, we aim to grow to 24 contests and engage all DDSB Elementary Schools in the in-class competition round, ensuring even more students discover the endless possibilities ahead!"

The overall event was about more than just skills; it was about building the leaders of tomorrow. Students honed essential real-world abilities such as critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and digital literacy—equipping them with the tools to thrive in an evolving world.

A Future Fueled by Opportunity

The success of these students was made possible by the dedication of over 80 DDSB educators, who served as mentors and judges, offering invaluable guidance and expertise. Their commitment highlights DDSB’s mission to nurture the next generation of thinkers, creators, and problem-solvers.

“Competitions like this open our eyes to opportunities beyond the classroom. They show us that learning isn’t just about textbooks—it’s about exploring real-world skills and career paths we never even knew existed,” shared Colin, a Grade 8 student at Meadowcrest Public School.

More than just a competition, the Regional Skills Ontario event was a celebration of the future. It showcased the extraordinary potential within our students and provided a launchpad for those who will now represent DDSB at the Provincial Skills Ontario Competition in Toronto on May 5.

From parents and educators to community leaders and industry professionals, the event attracted a diverse audience eager to witness innovation in action. It was a day of discovery, excitement, and boundless opportunity—proving that when we invest in our students, we invest in the future.

DDSB: Inspiring the Next Generation of Trailblazers

With each passing year, DDSB continues to redefine what’s possible for students by expanding opportunities, igniting passions, and setting them on paths to success. The future isn’t just coming—it’s already here. And it’s being built by the bright, ambitious, and unstoppable students of DDSB.

DDSB Appoints Camille Williams-Taylor as Director of Education

Tue, 03 Jan 2023 13:00:00 GMT

The Board of Trustees has appointed Camille Williams-Taylor as the next Director of Education for the Durham District School Board. Ms. Williams-Taylor will officially assume the role in the new year.

Camille Williams-Taylor is an innovative leader and an accomplished learner who has a strong track record in cultivating an environment that embraces creativity, critical thinking and high expectations for learners and staff.

Ms. Williams-Taylor has been the Director of Education at the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board for the past four years, providing leadership for a school system serving approximately 75,000 students across 143 schools. She also has a strong understanding of the Durham District School Board, where she previously served as a Superintendent of Education from 2011 to 2018 and at various times was responsible for a Family of Schools, Human Resource Services, Equity and Special Education.

In addition to her senior leadership experience in public education, she has been a classroom teacher, a principal, a Ministry of Education student achievement officer and a faculty of education course director. She is also a wife and the mother of three daughters. She believes learning happens everywhere, in school, in the community, at home and in families. In every one of her roles she has learned from students, staff, and community leaders and partners.

As an educational leader she is committed to prioritizing high expectations and advancing success for all students while ensuring that we all work and learn together in positive, respectful, inclusive environments.

Quotes:

“The Board of Trustees is pleased to appoint Camille Williams-Taylor as the next Director of Education following a comprehensive search. We know that Camille has the skills and experience to lead the DDSB out of the pandemic, continue to build a culture of collaborative leadership across the District and create an environment that puts the well-being of employees and students first.

We would also like to thank the current Director of Education, Norah Marsh, who has provided incredible leadership and skillfully led the DDSB during a period of change over the past few years. The DDSB is well-positioned for the future as a result of Norah’s efforts to provide stability and her unrelenting focus on equity, student learning and well-being.”

– Carolyn Morton, Chair, Durham District School Board

“It is an honour to join the Durham District School Board as Director of Education and I would like to thank the Board of Trustees for the opportunity to serve the District in this new role. I am excited to work collaboratively across the DDSB to extend a vision for public education that is grounded in equity, inclusion, Indigenous rights and human rights to ensure that all students have the best learning opportunities in a safe and caring environment. There is a lot to be proud of at the DDSB over the past few years and I look forward to working with the dedicated staff team to build on this work and continue to focus on student and staff well-being and achievement as we chart a course for all students to maximize their talent and reach their potential.”

– Camille Williams-Taylor

The Durham District School Board (DDSB) is responsible for public education in the rural settings of Uxbridge, Brock and Scugog Townships and the urban settings of Ajax, Whitby, Pickering, and Oshawa. The DDSB employs 7,000 teaching and educational services staff. With 136 elementary and secondary schools and learning centres, the DDSB accommodates more than 75,000 regular day students and thousands more who take advantage of a wide variety of continuing education and adult credit courses. More information can be found on the DDSB’s website at ddsb.ca. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @ddsbschools, Instagram @ddsbschools and YouTube at DurhamDSB.

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For more information, contact:

Stephanie Aylesworth

Communications Specialist

Durham District School Board

Stephanie.Aylesworth@ddsb.ca

DDSB Cyber Incident

Sun, 27 Nov 2022 20:00:00 GMT

The Durham District School Board is currently recovering from a cyber-incident that first came to our attention on Friday. Upon our discovery, we immediately took steps to secure our network and retained expert assistance. We have notified law enforcement and are working to investigate and understand the full impact of this incident.

Important Information for DDSB Families for Monday

In-person schools will remain open, but all DDSB phone and e-mail services are not working and schools may not have access to emergency contact information.
Please send temporary emergency contact information with your child to school.
We will be taking manual attendance and parents/guardians will not be contacted if their child is absent.
Schools will be taking measures to ensure the safe operation of schools on Monday.
All DDSB@Home classes and literacy tests are cancelled on Monday.
Most student chromebooks will not be working.
Child care services will be operating.
Community use of schools permits will continue.

Our IT team has been working throughout the weekend and will continue until we are able to restore services. We appreciate that this incident raises a significant privacy concern, and we will be providing updates and sharing more information when we have it. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work through this and we sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

Temporary e-mail address for media inquiries: ddsbmediarelations@gmail.com

Weekly Memo for April 17th -21st

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 13:30:00 GMT

Please find weekly memo for April 17-21

School Bus Cancellations: Friday, February 17, 2023 - All Zones

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 10:45:00 GMT

Durham Student Transportation Services have cancelled buses in all zones, due to road conditions resulting from inclement weather.

Busses will not operate in Zone 1,2,3 or 4 in the morning or in the afternoon. All schools remain open.

All secondary schools have a PA day today, so the only impact is for elementary schools.

Students and families can find a list of schools within each weather zone by visiting the Durham Student Transportation Services (DSTS) website or by clicking the links below.

Secondary Update on the 2021-22 School Year

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 14:30:00 GMT

Key Messages for Families

Schools will remain closed to in-person learning for the rest of this school year and students will continue to learn remotely.
Students currently learning in-person as part of a special education class will continue to do so.
We are planning for full-day in-person learning for secondary students choosing to learn in-person for the 2021-22 school year.
We will be providing families with a one-week window in early-August to confirm their choice of in-person or virtual learning for the 2021-22 school year.
Secondary school bell times will be from 10am to 4pm for all students.
Secondary schools will be operating on a quadmester schedule with students taking two courses at a time for approximately 45 school days per quadmester.
Timetables will be provided to students closer to the start of the school year.
OSSLT is not required for students graduating this (2020-21) and next (2021-22) school year.
The requirement to earn 40 community involvement hours has been reduced to 20 hours for this (2020-21) and next (2021-22) school year.

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Yesterday, the Ministry of Education announced that students will continue to learn remotely for the remainder of the school year, except for those who are currently learning in-person as part of a special education class. We recognize that this may be disappointing news for students and families and that we are all looking forward to connecting in-person again. Please know that services are available through your local school and to reach out if your child needs additional support.

The Ministry has also indicated that we can look at the possibility of having an in-person acknowledgement of graduating students. We do not know what this will look like for schools and we will be working with the Durham Region Health Department on what may be possible. Your school will provide you with an update on planning as information becomes available. Schools will also be following up with families in the coming weeks with respect to the return of student technology and the retrieval of items.

Planning for 2021-2022

As we approach the last month of the school year and with the expansion of COVID-19 vaccinations for youth ages 12 and up, we understand that secondary parents/guardians and students are thinking about what school will look like in September. While we are continuing to adapt plans as the COVID-19 pandemic evolves, we wanted to update you on the current direction from the Ministry of Education. Further direction will be provided by the Ministry in the summer and we will be able to share more information with you in August.

Full-Day In-Person Learning

Based on current direction from the Ministry of Education, we are planning for full-day in-person learning for secondary students who choose to learn in-person.

Opportunity to Confirm your Choice of In-Person or Virtual Learning in Early-August

As the pandemic continues to evolve, so does our approach and with vaccinations for those 12 years of age and older taking place during the upcoming months, the 2021-22 school year is looking more promising. That is why we will be providing families with a one-week window in early-August to confirm their choice of in-person or virtual learning for the 2021-22 school year. More information will be communicated to families through a variety of means closer to early-August on this process.

Secondary School Bell Times are 10am to 4pm

All secondary students will be learning from 10am to 4pm daily during the 2021-22 school year. This includes those in special education classes and those learning at DDSB@Home. We have been working closely with the Durham Catholic District School Board and Durham Student Transportation Services and this approach is the only feasible way that we can ensure all eligible students can receive transportation services due to a province-wide shortage of bus drivers. We recognize this may have an impact on your planning for the fall. We will be checking in throughout the year to determine how families and staff are managing with the change. There is ample research that supports a later start for secondary students as it is beneficial for student engagement but understand there may be other impacts for those involved.

Quadmester Schedule

It is currently expected that classes will take place in a quadmester format with students only taking two courses at a time for an approximate period of 45 school days per quadmester. We have asked the Ministry to consider a full-semester system model but at this time the Ministry has directed that we plan for a quadmester format. In the meantime, we will replicate the schedule that we used this year except all periods will be in-person. Student timetables will be provided closer to the start of the school year to incorporate all the developments that will occur over the summer.

Once timetables are created, school staff will work with students and families to address any concerns.

Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT)

Students graduating in the 2021-22 school year are exempted from the completion of the literacy requirement and therefore will not have to write the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT). For students graduating after June 2022, we will share updates once we receive them from the Ministry of Education.

Community Involvement Hours Graduation Requirement

Typically, secondary school students are required to provide 40 hours of community involvement activities as part of the requirements for earning an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). In 2021-22, the required number of hours for community involvement activities will be reduced from 40 to a minimum of 20 hours for graduating students. This is consistent with changes made during this school year. The community involvement graduation requirement of 40 hours will be restored in 2022-23.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work through the changing dynamic of the COVID-19 pandemic response and as we endeavour to provide meaningful learning options for students. We will update you when we have confirmation of the school day from the Ministry of Education.

Sincerely,

Norah Marsh
Director of Education

Weekly Memo : Feb 13-17

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 20:00:00 GMT

Please find weekly memo for Feb 13-17

AHS Weekly Memo Oct 3-7

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 19:30:00 GMT

Please find below the weekly memo for October 3-7.

Grade 8 Student Helping to Make Headwear for Frontline Workers

Tue, 12 May 2020 19:45:00 GMT

An inspiring DDSB student is volunteering to help make frontline workers more comfortable and safe

A Durham District School Board (DDSB) student has decided to give back and help her community by supporting frontline workers during the pandemic, in a small but mighty way.

“I want to get involved with my community and I feel like this is the best way to do it. Even in rough times, you need to be able to help your community out, no matter who they are. We can get through these tough times together,” says Danielle, a Grade 8 student at Beaverton Public School.

Danielle is helping to create headwear for frontline workers, as part of an effort being coordinated by Brock Sews. She is a pattern cutter, which means that she cuts fabric for the headwear and then gives it to the person who sews the final product. In just over three days Danielle has been able to cut over 20 patterns. She found out about the project from her grandmother Gail Scruton, who is also involved with Brock Sews.

Lore Grant, founder of Brock Sews, said her heart broke when she saw a Facebook post, showing “a nurse whose ears were raw and blistering from the elastic from her mask; she wanted headwear that would take the elastic off the ears.”

After sharing the post, many people from Brock Township reached out to Grant to help to make the headwear. Some offered to sew, cut patterns or donate fabrics and other materials needed. So far, they’ve donated almost 2800 completed pieces to hospitals and healthcare facilities across the GTA. Grant is happy to have Danielle on the team supporting frontline workers. She added that, “this is such a selfless act, to want to engage with others in an effort to show our appreciation to the frontline workers.”

Danielle hopes that others hear about this great initiative.

“It makes me feel good that I’m able to help other people,” Danielle says. “I just wish there were more ways I could help and maybe other people could help too.”

To get in touch with Brock Sews to help at granthouse@rogers.com, 705-426-1296.

AHS Weekly Memo 24-28

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 17:00:00 GMT

Please find below AHS Weekly Memo for October 24 -28

Announcement: New Name for UNOPS - "Maamawi iyaawag"

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 19:15:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We are excited to announce that the previously unnamed North Oshawa P.S. will be opening in September 2024 as Maamawi iyaawag P.S. This name, meaning "they are gathered together here" in Anishinaabemowin, reflects our commitment to Indigenous rights and has been selected through extensive community consultation. Please read the attached document for more details.

Durham District School Board

DDSB unveils 2024-28 Ignite Learning Multi-Year Strategic Plan

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 15:15:00 GMT

The Durham District School Board (DDSB) announced today the launch of its transformative Ignite Learning Multi-Year Strategic Plan (2024-2028). The Plan aims to create an inclusive and equitable environment where every student, staff member, and family thrives.

The Plan is underpinned by three guiding principles:

We recognize and uphold distinct Indigenous Rights
We affirm and uphold Human Rights
We care about and strive to Know Each Other

The Plan’s three strategic priorities – Meaningful Learning, Connected Communities, and Well-Being – are designed to promote high-quality teaching, community engagement, and holistic support for students and staff. By centring these three strategic priorities in schools and workplaces, the DDSB aims to build confidence, trust, and a shared sense of purpose in its communities.

“This strategic plan represents our focus on student achievement and success along with our commitment to anti-oppression, equity, and the recognition of Indigenous rights,” said Christine Thatcher, Chair of the DDSB Board of Trustees. “It serves as a blueprint for meaningful learning, connected communities, and well-being, reflecting our dedication to creating environments where everyone feels valued and supported.”

The Ignite Learning Multi-Year Strategic Plan was the result of extensive public consultations, incorporating the aspirations, priorities, and feedback from diverse community partners. The DDSB invites the community to explore how these strategic priorities will shape a future where we ignite learning, ignite connection and ignite well-being. For more information, visit the DDSB website.

Congratulations to Alicia Russell, Principal of Ajax High School

Tue, 27 May 2025 14:30:00 GMT

The Durham District School Board is proud to announce that Alicia Russell, Principal of Ajax High School, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Maxwell B. Nelson Leadership Award.

This prestigious recognition, presented by the Durham District School Board’s (DDSB) Director of Education, honours Alicia’s exceptional leadership, vision, courage, and sacrifice along with her steadfast commitment to equity. Her work has created meaningful pathways toward inclusive outcomes for all students and staff.

Alicia’s contributions extend well beyond her daily responsibilities, as she has consistently championed learning and working environments that uphold Indigenous rights, and human rights. She has created spaces that are welcoming, respectful, accessible, and free from all forms of discrimination, harassment, and oppression.

Alicia was also recognized for her ability to encourage collaboration. She has built strong partnerships with community organizations and equity-focused networks, driving innovation and accountability across educational spaces. Her contributions to the DDSB and sector-wide committees reflect a deep commitment to system improvement and the collective well-being of all learners and educators.

This year’s recipient of the Maxwell B. Nelson Leadership Award has demonstrated a bold vision for inclusive education — one that challenges the status quo and actively works to dismantle systemic barriers and inequities. Her leadership has resulted in meaningful, system-wide change rooted in the values of anti-oppression, Indigenous rights, and human rights. We are thrilled to recognize Alicia’s unwavering commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable education system that reflects the very essence of this award.

The award will be presented at the Administrator’s System Leadership Meeting, with Maxwell B. Nelson in attendance. A commemorative plaque will be on display at the DDSB Education Centre to honour Alicia’s achievement and lasting legacy.

Please join us in congratulating Alicia Russell on this well-deserved recognition.

Director's Update: June 2024

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 17:00:00 GMT

Dear students and families:

As we are on the brink of the summer break, I hope that you will feel a sense of progress and accomplishment as you reflect on the past school year. Our students have worked hard, played hard, learned new skills, solved problems and discovered new things about themselves and their communities. These achievements are not only reflected on report cards, but also in the stories that they have shared over the past year with their friends, classmates, educators, and families.

It has been wonderful to watch DDSB students shine and grow as the year unfolded. At each month's board meeting, the "Good News From the System" segment showcases the learning, talent, and growth of DDSB students (June Edition). Many of you will have celebrated the accomplishments of Grade 8 and high school students at school events recognizing significant completion milestones. At our recently held annual Student Recognition Night, the system acknowledged the resilience and leadership journeys of nominated students who are completing their final year at DDSB. This event awarded students who not only accomplished personal goals, but also made a way to support others in doing the same. These are young people who exemplify resilience, grace, and strong character.

This past June we saw genius in action at the unveiling of the Student Art Gallery in the Education Centre where students from all over the District submitted their work for consideration for the gallery under the theme of “My Journey, My Joy, My Genius.” The selected works are on display for a full year at the DDSB Education Centre.

In a similar vein, brilliant works by talented artists from Durham Alternative Secondary School will be on display until the end of the month at the Station Gallery in Oshawa.

Two weeks ago, we shared the excitement of the spirited athletes at the Abilities Track and Field event held at the?Civic Recreation Complex in Oshawa.?Over 900 athletes from 85 DDSB schools participated in the Abilities Track and Field meet on June 14.? This annual event engaged friendly competition for athletes from both elementary and secondary schools in both track and field events including adaptive sports. Certainly, the Education Assistants, Educator teams, and other DDSB staff were also spirited in their support for athletes. Their creativity and investment helped to maximize the engagement in and enjoyment of a dynamic sports event. It was truly a day of joy for athletes, staff, and families.

We closed off the year with three important themes acknowledging the diverse lived realities of the Durham community. June brought with it a focus on Indigenous history, culture, and identity. Students and staff engaged in important learning in schools and classrooms. At the Education Centre, we welcomed Dr. Pam Palmater and Chief Kelly LaRocca to chart a path of learning. Their words challenged us to continue to embrace our own responsibilities in response to the Calls to Action. Their words also served to acknowledge and inspire Indigenous adults and students in public validation of their cultures, heritage, histories, and identities.

Additionally, we recognized Autistic Pride Day on June 18. During the flag raising event, many voices shared their perspectives and experiences of Autistic and Neurodivergent youth and adults from many communities. It was a good reminder that we have much to learn from everyone in our community, especially from those who experience the world in ways that may be different from what most of us have come to expect.

And, as June is widely acknowledged as Pride month in Canada, we underscored our commitment to identity affirming spaces for 2SLGBTQI families, students, and staff. In addition to various events in the region and in the District, the DDSB signalled our intentions by raising the progressive rainbow flag at all our schools and the Education Centre.

These and many other experiences highlight the richness of the DDSB community. Our students, staff, and families create that richness. As we close the year and move into a break for the summer, I am encouraging you to continue to learn from each other in your family and?community experiences, your summer learning activities, or even through the adventures that you might explore in books and stories that you may encounter in the coming weeks.

I hope you will find some time for rest and relaxation during the summer months and that we will come back together in September replenished and ready to go.

On behalf of the senior team, have a great summer break.

Camille Williams-Taylor
Director of Education
Durham District School Board

Two Trustee Seats Vacated

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 18:00:00 GMT

The Durham District School Board thank Chris Braney and Michael Barrett for their years of service to public education on the Board of Trustees

At a Special Board Meeting held on Tuesday, September 6, 2022, the Durham District School Board confirmed that the seats held by former Trustees Chris Braney and Michael Barrett have been vacated.

The vacancies were created by operation of the residency provisions of the Education Act and the Municipal Elections Act which stipulate that, for eligibility purposes, a school board trustee may only have one residence at a time and that the residence must be in the school district that they are serving.

A report concerning next steps in relation to the two vacant seats will be brought forward to the next board meeting scheduled for Monday, September 19, 2022.

Quote:

“On behalf of the Durham District School Board, I would like to thank Chris Braney and Michael Barrett for their many years of service to students and families as school board trustees and former Chairs of the Board. We wish both of them well in their future endeavours.”

Carolyn Morton, Chair, Durham District School Board

The Durham District School Board (DDSB) is responsible for public education in the rural settings of Uxbridge, Brock and Scugog Townships and the urban settings of Ajax, Whitby, Pickering, and Oshawa. The DDSB employs 7,000 teaching and educational services staff. With 136 elementary and secondary schools and learning centres, the DDSB accommodates more than 75,000 regular day students and thousands more who take advantage of a wide variety of continuing education and adult credit courses. More information can be found on the DDSB’s website at ddsb.ca. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @ddsbschools, Instagram @ddsbschools and YouTube at DurhamDSB.

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Interested in the SHSM program at Ajax High School?

Tue, 15 Sep 2020 18:00:00 GMT

Interested in the SHSM program at Ajax High School?

The Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) program allows students to focus on a career path that matches their skills and interests. Student success is about meeting individual learning needs. The SHSM program provides a customized and enhanced learning option for students.

Students must be in grade 11 or 12. Specialist High Skills Major Programs in the high skills fields are great for students who want to take an apprenticeship, attend college or university or enter the workforce.

At Ajax High School we are offering the following programs:

- Health & Wellness

- Business

Program benefits

The SHSM program helps you:

Develop specialized knowledge and skills
Participate in enhanced experiential learning and activities
Customize your schooling to meet your skills and interests
Earn credits that can transfer to post-secondary education
Identify, explore and refine your career goals
Develop education and career connections through cooperative learning (mandatory 2 credits)

Program delivery

Students in SHSM will:

Gain experience through cooperative education work placements
Complete 8 to 10 courses in your selected field
Complete First Aid, CPR, and WHMIS training along with other specialized certifications
Engage in reach-ahead experiences
Participate in Sector-Partnered Contextualized Experiences

For more information or to enrol in the program contact:

Health & Wellness: jacquelyn.andrews@ddsb.ca

Business: brigitte.beaulieuplatnar@ddsb.ca

or the Guidance Department (905) 683-1610

DDSB@Home: Transitional Pilot FAQs

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 15:45:00 GMT

For the 2024-2025 school year, DDSB@Home will focus on serving students entering Grades 4 through 10, moving away from our previous K-12 model. This transitional pilot aims to enhance the educational experience of our virtual learning program. While the duration and permanency of this change is to be determined, our primary goal remains to provide the best possible learning environment. We recognize that such transitions can lead to questions and concerns. To assist you in understanding the rationale and implications behind this decision, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions below. We appreciate your patience, understanding, and ongoing support as we embark on this journey together.

Frequently Asked Questions - DDSB@Home - Transitional Pilot

University Night Presentation - Thursday, Sept. 19

Tue, 03 Sep 2019 18:00:00 GMT

Grade 12 parents and students are strongly encouraged to attend the University Night Presentation happening Thursday, Sept. 19, at 7 pm in the cafeteria. Learn about the application process, research, finances, and other important information for students intending to apply to university this year.

Teacher lifts spirits amid new era of social distancing

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 16:30:00 GMT

Dave McGonigal, a Teacher at Williamsburg PS, recently held a lively bagpipe performance outside Taunton Mills Retirement Home in Whitby. Keeping his distance from those inside, McGonigal says he wanted to lift the spirits of the people living and working in the building, during this difficult time of self-isolation. Check out CBC The National’s coverage of David’s performance at the 42:53 mark in the online broadcast.

DDSB announces agreement with OSSTF Permanent Teachers

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 17:15:00 GMT

Durham District School Board announced today that is has a reached a new agreement with the Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation (OSSTF) Permanent Teachers bargaining unit. The DDSB Board of Trustees and the bargaining unit have ratified the agreement.

“This agreement reflects our mutual commitment to providing high-quality education to our students,” said Christine Thatcher, Chair of the DDSB Board of Trustees. “The dedication demonstrated by our secondary school educators is commendable. We look forward to continuing to work together to support student success and foster a positive learning environment.”

Building upon this achievement, both parties are committed to continuing to drive positive outcomes for both educators and students alike.

“The OSSTF Teachers Bargaining Unit is pleased to have ratified a new collective agreement with the DDSB,” said Shane Stagg, President, District 13 OSSTF. “Collective bargaining provides an important opportunity for the union and the employer to discuss matters of concern, find common interests, and identify middle ground on their differences. We are happy to have found a willing bargaining partner with the DDSB and to have arrived at a collective agreement that supports public education in Durham.”

Durham District School Board

Important DSTS Service Update

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 21:45:00 GMT

With the full return of all bus routes, Durham Student Transportation Services (DSTS) may encounter higher than normal absent rates for school bus drivers due to the COVID variant.

Parents, students, and school communities need to be aware that it may be necessary to cancel bus runs on a temporary basis if we experience high rates of driver absences.

The cancellation of school bus routes is a last resort for DSTS. It is important that parents, guardians, and students are monitoring the DSTS website daily and check the “Delayed Buses” page to monitor the status of their bus run.

Through our website www.dsts.on.ca, under “Track your Child/Student’s bus”, parents, guardians, and students can create an account with DSTS and receive automatic transportation updates including delays and cancellations.

Please note that if a bus route is temporarily cancelled due to COVID, it may be cancelled for up to 5 days.

Please continue to follow us on twitter @DurhamSTS and monitor our website for the most up-to-date transportation information and important updates.

Thank you,

Durham Student Transportation Services

Weekly Memo April 29- May 3

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 13:00:00 GMT

Please find the Weekly Memo for April 29- May 3

Ontario's Top School Cricket Team

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 19:30:00 GMT

J. Clarke Richardson Collegiate made history by winning the prestigious 2025 Mayor’s Cup

The Varsity Cricket team from J. Clarke Richardson Collegiate has made history by winning the prestigious 2025 Mayor’s Cup, solidifying their place as the #1 school cricket team in Ontario.

Following an incredible season in which they were crowned outdoor tournament champions and recognized as the best team in the Durham region, the team was invited to compete in the Mayor’s Cup. This prestigious tournament featured top ranked cricket teams from Toronto, Brampton, Mississauga, and Scarborough.

Under the leadership of Coach Sazeka Williams, Coach Grant Madden and Coach Bevan Fernandes, J. Clarke Richardson delivered a series of outstanding performances, showcasing sharp bowling, solid batting, and excellent fielding. Their most impressive feat came in the semi-finals, where they defeated the four-time defending champions. In the final match, they beat the Scarborough team, bowling them out for just 25 runs.

“Our team delivered unmatched performances across the board,” said Coach Williams. “Every player gave it their all, and each and every one of them should be so proud!”

This win also marked a historic return for the Durham District School Board (DDSB) to the Premier’s Cup tournament since the COVID-19 pandemic. The team’s success is a testament to the talent, discipline, and leadership within DDSB schools.

The Ontario Schools Cricket Association (OSCA) extended its congratulations to the team, with the Director of OSCA praising the win as a milestone achievement by J. Clarke Richardson Collegiate.

With this momentous win, J. Clarke Richardson Collegiate has not only brought pride to their school and community but also reignited momentum to expand school cricket opportunities for students across Durham.

Statement on the Impact of Qu�bec's Bill 21

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 20:00:00 GMT

The cornerstone of quality public education is that it is for all students, families, employees, and communities. As a public school board, the DDSB welcomes, values, affirms, and respects the identities of all community members. We also recognize the critical importance of having a workforce that reflects the diversity of students we serve.

Recently an educator in Québec who wears a hijab was reassigned from their teaching duties because of a provincial law that prevents public service employees from wearing religious symbols at work. This law has a discriminatory and racist effect on individuals and groups based on the expression of their religious beliefs.

Such an action, so close to home, has created a myriad of emotions for those within the DDSB community. We deeply share these feelings of concern as this law and decision directly contradict our core values of upholding human rights and fostering inclusion. Diversity is the strength of public education and seeing a discriminatory law being implemented to prevent such diversity is unacceptable.

While the legal ramifications of this law and decision unfold, we continue to take anti-oppressive approaches and actions to the work that we do. We remain unwavering in our commitment to providing learning and working environments that centre Indigenous rights, human rights, and equity and that are safe, welcoming, respectful, inclusive, equitable, and accessible for everyone. Discrimination has no place in our schools, workplaces, communities, province, and country.

Lincoln Avenue Public School hosts inspiring Greatest Canadian History Fair

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 17:45:00 GMT

In a vibrant celebration of our shared Canadian identity, Lincoln Avenue Public School recently played host to the eagerly awaited Greatest Canadian History Fair, an annual event for its spirited and dedicated Grades 7 and 8 students. With passion and fervor, these young minds embarked on an enlightening journey into the annals of Canadian history, transforming the mundane into the extraordinary.

This captivating event wasn't just an academic exercise; it was a triumphant ode to our rich Canadian heritage and the luminaries who have indelibly shaped our nation. Under the thoughtful guidance of Lincoln Avenue Public School, students delved into the lives of iconic Canadians, not merely as historical figures, but as beacons of inspiration for the generations to come.

Fueling the flames of curiosity, the fair became a dynamic platform for students to explore, discover, and celebrate the profound contributions of Canadian trailblazers. From the courageous feats of Laura Secord to the indomitable spirit of Terry Fox, and the cultural impact of Robert Munsch, the fair showcased a kaleidoscope of narratives that are etched in Canadian tapestry.

Distinguished guests who graced the occasion elevated this year’s fair to new heights, breathing life into the students' presentations. Representatives from the Terry Fox Foundation and the Hockey Hall of Fame generously shared artifacts, enriching the projects and amplifying the historical resonance. This unique collaboration underscored the spirit of unity and shared pride in our national history.

Principal James Rowed, with a sparkle in his eyes, remarked, "The Greatest Canadian History Fair is a testament to the depth of research and passion displayed by our students. It goes beyond the classroom, offering a profound exploration of our collective identity and the extraordinary individuals who have sculpted it."

The event transcended the school walls, drawing participants from all corners of the community, including the Mayor of Ajax, Shaun Collier, who joined the festivities. The fair wasn't merely an academic exercise; it was a call to community engagement, fostering a sense of collective pride in our Canadian roots.

Lincoln Avenue Public School, unwavering in its commitment to holistic education, remains dedicated to cultivating a love for history and an appreciation for the myriad narratives that have shaped the great nation of Canada. As the echoes of the fair linger in the hearts of participants, we look forward to another year of inspiring journeys into the vibrant tapestry of Canadian greatness.

Weekly Memo Jan 12 - 16

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Please find the Weekly Memo for Jan 12-16

Ajax High School Commencement/Graduation Ceremony

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 14:00:00 GMT

Graduation Details

All students who have met their graduation requirements in full are invited to attend our upcoming ceremony on Wednesday June 29^th at 1pm. The ceremony will take place at Iroquois Park Sports Centre located at 500 Victoria St W, Whitby, ON L1N 9G4. Students should arrive to the venue no later than 12:00 pm to marshal prior to the start of the ceremony. All students must wear a cap and gown. These will be available to all students who have purchased theirs prior to the event. Any student who does not collect their cap and gown prior to can pick them up at the venue ahead of time.

FREE Grad photo to be taken on the day of commmencent!

Grads will be able to follow this link in 1-2 weeks after the ceremony for their grad photos:

http://www.edgephotos.ca/edge-imaging-event-site?load/event_login/item/889561/category/0/access/AHCM2022WA

Password: AHCM2022WA

Congratulations Grads!

To access the Commencement program, please scan the QR code below.

Congratulations to all of our Student Athletes!

Mon, 08 Jun 2020 12:45:00 GMT

Ajax HS presents the 2019-20 Virtual Athletic Awards

On behalf of the staff at Ajax, we wish congratulations to all of our student athletes at Ajax HS. We had a greatt run of co-curricular programming this year. We are proud of all your accomplishments and achievements. Athletics would not be possible without the tireless efforts of coaches and volunteers who give their time in the interest of advancing student engagement. Thank you for your commitment.

Click the link here to see the virtual celebration: https://youtu.be/U5IJLcs0A88

DDSB 2019 Census Data Presentation

Fri, 21 May 2021 19:00:00 GMT

Parents and caregivers of children who identify as Black, please join us for a dialogue on using the 2019 DDSB student census data to Address Anti-Black Racism.

The session will be held on June 10, 2021 6:00-8:00 p.m. and will focus on the following:

How are our Black students are doing?
What is the DDSB presently doing to address these outcomes?
What DDSB is planning to do in the future to ensure an equitable outcome for all Black students

This session is a virtual session open to all community members.

Margaret Lazarus

Superintendent of Education

Mohamed Hamid

Superintendent of Education

Update on Remote Learning and Returning School Materials

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 23:30:00 GMT

We hope that your children are doing well in these unusual times as we continue to do our best to engage them, with a focus on well-being and positive relationships. In today’s message, we have some updates and information to share with you:

Remote Learning Continues in Durham Region
Information on Returning Textbooks and Other Materials

Remote Learning Continues in Durham Region

Earlier today, the Ministry of Education announced that more school boards in Ontario will be returning to in-person learning. However, Durham Region was not included as part of this announcement and students at our school board will continue to learn remotely at home until further notice. We anticipate that the earliest students could return to school is February 11, 2021, but this is subject to change.

To help provide context, the decision on when students can return to in-person learning is made by the Ministry of Education on the advice of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, and in consultation with the local Medical Officers of Health. They make this decision based on the most recent public health data they have in order to determine when it is safe for all students to return to in-person learning.

Once we receive more information from the Ministry on when students can return to in-person learning, we will be sharing that news with you and look forward to welcoming your child(ren) back to school. Should you have any concerns or questions about your child(ren)’s participation in remote learning, we ask that you please contact the classroom teacher or the school administration team for assistance.

Information on Returning Textbooks and Other Materials

Due to the current stay-at-home order, we are asking that you keep any school issued textbooks and borrowed materials at home until further notice. Once the date that students will be able to return to in-person learning is confirmed, schools will communicate with you on how to safely return any textbooks and borrowed materials that you may have. However, schools may be in touch sooner with individual students to support technology needs and/or any students who may be graduating following the end of Quadmester 2.

Thank you once again for your patience and understanding as we navigate the COVID-19 pandemic together and the resulting changes. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to be in touch with your school team.

Walk for Hope

Wed, 19 May 2021 14:00:00 GMT

The Walk for Hope is taking place between May 31^st and June 4^th. The Walk for Hope was started by students to honour a family from our community who was impacted by tragedy and survival in March 2018. At the same time, the initiative also serves to create awareness about domestic violence. Given our current restrictions our approach to the Walk for Hope will look different this year. While we cannot walk as a collective school physically, we will aim to do our part by engaging in a way that maintains the spirit and intent of the event. Please participate in this walk and donate to help raise awareness. All money raised will be donated to ‘Herizon House’ (https://herizonhouse.com/) and the ‘Canadians Women Foundation’ (https://canadianwomen.org/)

Registration Payment and Donations can be made through School Cash Online.

daVinci Public School Celebrates 10th Anniversary

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 18:30:00 GMT

Happy birthday, daVinci Public School!

The daVinci school community opened their doors on May 26, 2022 to students, parents, teachers, and principals past and present to celebrate the school’s 10^th anniversary.

This was the first time since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic that the school was able to host community members for a celebration. The school looked fantastic and everyone had fun time reconnecting with former teachers and staff, graduates, and parents who came back to take part in the celebration, which included activities like:

- ‘daVinci Passport’ tour of the school and submission for prizes,

- Selfie photo opportunity with a daVinci (Mona Lisa theme),

- “Who’s that Dragon” board with photos of staff when they were 10 years old,

- A large birthday card for all visitors to sign, and

- Students and teachers engaged in a 10^th anniversary bingo game

DaVinci Public School Celebrates 10 Years

Current students were surprised by the number of community members and past alumni who attended to take part in the celebration. Student Kennedy-Grace who took part in the festivities said, “whether it’s past students, current students, old staff members, or current staff members, we will always be together as a big family."

Rhiyah, who also attends the school really liked the birthday celebration. "Something I liked about the party is everyone was really welcoming to families, and people who came here were very excited to come. One of my favourite things at the party was signing the birthday card and the passports,” said Rhiyah.

Attending this year’s event was the original administrative team of Principal Andrea Della Torre and Vice Principal John McLeod who opened the school doors back in September 2012 and welcomed the first students.

Many of this year’s graduates hold the unique distinction of being the first graduates to begin daVinci Public School in Junior Kindergarten attending all grade levels at the school.

Weekly Memo For Nov 6-10

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 17:00:00 GMT

Please find the weekly Memo.

December 23: All DDSB Schools/Offices Closed

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 19:45:00 GMT

As a result of the pending winter storm warning, which includes risks of flash freezing, a decision has been made to close all DDSB sites for Friday, December 23, 2022. Community Use of Schools permits will also be cancelled for tomorrow evening.

This closure also applies to all child care sites on DDSB property.

As a reminder, all DDSB sites will now be closed from Friday, December 23, 2022 to Monday, January 2, 2023. On January 3, 2023 all DDSB sites will resume operations in alignment with the Winter Holiday Break schedule. Schools will be open to students commencing Monday, January 9, 2023.

With our best wishes for a safe and happy holiday season.

Supervisory Officer Talent Pool

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 19:15:00 GMT

Lead. Inspire. Transform.

We’re inviting applications to our Supervisory Officer Pool — for leaders ready to create meaningful change.

Durham District School Board (DDSB) is currently seeking educational leaders who are focused on student achievement and well-being, and who are committed to championing the district’s commitment to providing learning and working environments that centre Indigenous rights, human rights, and equity.

System leaders and Principals with experience building collaborative leadership teams, with a strong record of scaffolding opportunities to support student success, as well demonstrating a commitment to anti-discrimination and anti-oppression within an extended school community are invited to apply to this leadership opportunity.

Pickering Seaton Community's New School: Josiah Henson Public School

Tue, 06 May 2025 19:30:00 GMT

The Durham District School Board is excited to announce the name of our newest elementary school opening its doors in September 2025 in the Pickering Seaton community: Josiah Henson Public School.

After careful consideration and extensive consultation with the broader school community, the School Naming Committee selected the name Josiah Henson P.S., and it was officially approved by the Board of Trustees of the Durham District School Board (DDSB) at the Special Board Meeting held on May 5, 2025.

Through meaningful dialogue and collaboration, the committee carefully reviewed community and student submissions and reflected on the vision for the new school community to arrive at a recommendation.?The School Naming Committee made its selection from a shortlist of three community-informed options and strongly felt that naming the school in Josiah Henson’s honour reflects the Durham District School Board’s deep commitment to equity, anti-oppression, and the ongoing work to confront anti-Black racism. It also affirms the importance of celebrating Black history and heritage as a vital part of our collective story.

We are grateful to the School Naming Committee for their diligent efforts in selecting a name that reflects the values and aspirations of the community. We believe the name Josiah Henson Public School will serve as a powerful reminder to students and staff of the strength found in perseverance, the value of inclusive education, and the importance of striving for a more just and compassionate society.

We extend our appreciation to the school community, the School Naming Committee and the entire DDSB community for their valuable contributions and engagement throughout this process. Together, we are laying the foundation for a bright and promising future for our students.

Family Wellness Night

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 15:30:00 GMT

Parents and Caregivers are invited to join a virtual resource night on Thursday, February 18, 2021 to learn more about the programs and services offered at the Ajax Youth Hub.

Registration is required.

Weekly Memo for Dec 16- 20

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 14:00:00 GMT

Please find the Weekly Memo Week for Dec 16-20

Weekly Memo March 24 - 28

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 12:30:00 GMT

Please find the Weekly Memo for March 24 - 28

Weekly Memo Jan 16-20

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 20:30:00 GMT

Please find below AHS Weekly Memo for Jan 16-20

DRHD Strongly Recommends Masks

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents/Guardians,

We are writing to share with you the news that due to the Omicron surges (BA.1.1 and BA.2 sub-variants), the Durham Region Health Department strongly recommends that students and staff wear a well-fitted three-layer mask in shared indoor spaces.

Please read the attached message from Durham Region’s Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Robert Kyle with this updated guidance. DRHD Message from Dr. Kyle

Masking, coupled with other public health measures such as physical distancing, proper hand hygiene, and staying home when sick, continue to be effective strategies for reducing the spread of COVID-19. We ask that everyone attending school continue to self-screen every day by using the Ontario school screener at: https://covid-19.ontario.ca/school-screening/

By working together and following the guidance of the Durham Region Health Department, we can help reduce the spread of COVID-19 in our community.

Thank you,

Durham District School Board

5 Questions with DDSB Staff Author Ashley Underwood

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 14:45:00 GMT

The Durham District School Board (DDSB) is proud to be home to many diverse, skilled, talented, and creative staff across the District. This multi-part “5 Questions With…” series will highlight the success that DDSB staff have accomplished in a variety of industries.

Ashley Underwood is a Grade 1 teacher at Valley View Public School in Pickering. Earlier this year, Ashley self-published her first children’s book titled I Love You, For YOU, about a young boy with a big imagination. The main character in the book is based on Ashley’s son, Frankie. In the story, Frankie make-believes being a hockey player, a doctor, a gardener, and much more. In each adventure, Frankie’s mom is there to remind him that underneath all of the play and pretending, loving himself is what truly matters.

We spoke with Ashley about publishing her first book, her creative process, and hopes for the future.

Q. What inspired your book I Love You, For YOU?

It was a busy morning, and Frankie was doing what seemed like every activity in the house. He would run around dressing up like a firefighter, putting out fires like his Grandad or tending to his garden of carrots and strawberries in the backyard. After that, I started writing down the activities he did throughout the day, all the things he came up with while pretending and using his imagination. These moments of play started to unfold into positive self-talk about loving yourself and affirming how smart, brave, and strong you are. I wanted to recreate this feeling to share with other parents and children, about imagination, discovery, and self-love.

Q. What message do you hope audiences take with them after reading I Love You, For YOU?

I want to share the feeling of warmth and ambition that comes when cuddling up and sharing a book about creating a world with limitless possibilities. The story connects creativity and discovery with the important message that children are loved no matter who they choose to be. It feels amazing to be able to share this message with other little ones, parents and those who love them.

Q. Do you have any tips for aspiring authors or illustrators who are considering publishing their work?

If you are thinking about publishing your work and getting your ideas out there, you already have the skills to do so. The hardest part is deciding to write or even start writing. Begin by setting short, specific goals that feel doable and then create time in your schedule to make it happen. Your book and ideas will come together before you know it. It really is the most beautiful feeling holding that printed book in your hands.

Publishing a children’s book was a goal of mine, but I needed some help to get there. It can feel overwhelming so don’t hesitate to ask for help. I recommend joining a writing community and connecting with other like-minded people to get you started on your writing journey. This makes all the difference.

Q. What’s next for you in the world of storytelling?

I love being creative and using theatrics to tell heart-warming stories of imagination and discovery. My second children’s book - a continuation from the first - is set to be released later this summer.

Join Frankie, Isla, and their new friends as they embark on a journey exploring their very own backyard in, Backyard Explorer. Frankie’s new group of friends will introduce readers to a world of nature-loving, bug-hugging, dig-in-the-dirt kind of fun, where exploration is encouraged, and questions are answered. The reader is invited into this world where they can glimpse nature’s most magnificent creations, in a story that includes Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) activities that children can try at home as they explore their own backyards.

Q. Where can people go to learn more about you and your work?

I Love You for YOU is available on Amazon.ca. I look forward to connecting with you and continuing to share the stories of Frankie and his friends as they dive deep into exploring their imagination. Join me on Twitter, (@Mrs_Underwood22), as I share more information about the book, teaching, and STEM activities for learners of all ages.

Increasing Positive Outcomes Through Cannabis Education

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 18:30:00 GMT

Educator training modules on substance use are in development to support staff and students

The Durham District School Board (DDSB) recently partnered with Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB), Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board (KPRDSB) and the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA) to create an educator’s guide aimed at de-stigmatizing and expanding education about cannabis use.

“By creating an informed staff group who use non-stigmatizing language when addressing and teaching about healthy choices and substance use, we increase the likelihood of positive outcomes for our students and staff,” says Dan Hogan, Substance Use and Violence Prevention Co-ordinator at the DDSB.

The idea to put together an educator’s guide came from a webinar for educators hosted by the CCSA in early 2021, focused on addressing substance use issues with youth. Based on the response from the roughly 1,000 participants, it was identified that it would be beneficial to develop training modules that address key issues of concern such as substance use and addiction, stigma, and cannabis and vaping.

Making use of from funds earmarked by the Government of Ontario to support cannabis education, three training modules are currently in development as part of the educator’s guide.

Module 1: Substance Use and Addiction

The first module will include a general introduction to substance use and Substance Use Disorders, examining risk factors, how to reduce harms associated substance use, as well as symptoms and signs of harmful substance use and suggestions for seeking support.

Module 2: Stigma

This module will address stigma related to substance use and potential discriminatory and judgmental language that is sometimes used that prevents people from seeking and receiving treatment support. Concepts that will be covered include self stigma, social stigma, and structural stigma.

Module 3: Cannabis and Vaping

The final module will cover the emerging evidence related to the harms associated with vaping in general and vaping cannabis specifically. It will also cover several approaches to educating students regarding risks and harms associated with vaping and cannabis, how to speak to youth about cannabis and vaping, as well as suggested harm reduction strategies.

Mr. Hogan adds that the training modules will roll out using a “train the trainer” approach to encourage scaling and spreading among educators and will support building capacity for training amongst colleagues.

DDSB staff can expect to see these modules available after October 14^th, 2021.

Weekly Memo Week for Jan 6 - 10

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 13:45:00 GMT

Please find the Weekly Memo Week for Jan 6 - 10