Trustee Anu Sriskandarajah
Toronto District School Board Updates
On January 12, 2021, the Ontario government announced a “stay at home” order to help curb the spread of COVID-19. One of the measures taken include, keeping schools closed to staff and students until Wednesday February 10, 2021. To accommodate this closure, remote learning will continue, and in-person support will be provided for students with special education needs who cannot be accommodated through remote learning. The closure of schools can pose challenges to parents and guardians who have the responsibility of managing life, work, childcare and remote learning. The TDSB prioritizes the mental health and continued well-being of our students, thus, works towards providing students with resources to reach and exceed academic success during these unprecedented times. Below are some useful resources for caregivers that are assisting students with online learning:
- Structure and Scheduling: Ensure students have a consistent (but flexible) routine and a designated space to access their remote classroom and complete necessary schoolwork.
- Stay flexible: For caregivers that are working remotely, managing their child’s remote learning needs can be challenging. Technical difficulties, a child’s mood and work deadlines can pose as challenges to completing tasks. When creating a schedule, ensure that it is flexible and one where adjustments can be made.
- Prioritizing tasks and taking breaks: Simplifying and breaking up larger assignments and tasks into smaller parts can make workload more manageable. When creating a schedule, a good tip is to outline a couple of tasks as essential for the day, to ensure the student is not overwhelmed and can take necessary breaks to rest and be more productive throughout the day.
TDSB’s
Remote-Learning Guidelines and FAQ are available at:
www.tdsb.on.ca/Remote-Learning/Questions-and-Answers
Also see further TDSB General Mental Health and Well-Being Resources: www.tdsb.on.ca/Remote-Learning/Resources-During-Covid-19
Keeping Kids Safe
Drivers are reminded to do their part to keep children safe
near school buses.
Drivers should follow these tips:
- Stop and never pass a school bus when its red lights are flashing.
- Leave space around school buses and avoid blocking school bus loading zones so children can enter and exit safely.
- Be prepared to stop for a school bus at any time, not just during school hours.
- Always obey the rules of the road and watch for children, especially in school zones.
- Stop for pedestrians at crosswalks and school crossings.
Parents can also help keep their children safe by reminding them to be aware of their surroundings when they are on or near school buses.
TCDSB Trustee Garry Tanuan
A new year of hope and promise
Our community has emerged stronger and ready to tackle a new year of hope and promise after we went through the overwhelming challenges in an unprecedented 2020 pandemic year.
In the month of February, we celebrate the virtue of love across the TCDSB. It is our faith and love that drives our people to embrace change for a better future.
Art Competition
The TCDSB approved a proclamation motion presented by Ward 8 Trustee Garry Tanuan, in honor of the Quincentennial Jubilee of Christianity in the Philippines (QJCP). This proclamation recognizes and celebrates the profound history, contributions and culture of faith in the Philippines.
All students in Toronto are invited to participate in a poster contest to celebrate the Quincentennial milestone. Deadline: February 15 at 4 pm. Visit the webpage for more information:
The theme is Pagsulong at Pag-asa Mula sa Pandemya (Healing and Hope from the Pandemic). The first prize is $500; second prize is $300; and third prize is $200. All winners will receive a certificate.
Contact
the Philippine Consulate General’s office at 416-355-2782 for more info.
Return to School Information
For the latest updates, frequently asked questions, School Reopening Action Plan and more, visit: www.tcdsb.org
Questions? Contact: Trustee Garry Tanuan 416-512-3408 or 416-222-8282 ext. 2659 (Ida Serpe).