Chippewa students pitch their North Bay tourism ideas

January 20, 2026 By Brett

Chippewa students pitch their North Bay tourism ideas

Grade 11 travel and tourism students at Chippewa Secondary School pitched their best North Bay tourism ideas to a panel of northern tourism professionals in a Dragon’s Den-inspired activity called Moose Moguls.

The expert panel provided un-biased constructive feedback which students could then use to improve and refine their business plans.

In this course, students learn about destinations, transportation, marketing and customer service. The goal is to prepare students for careers in tourism and hospitality, and to develop awareness of global and local tourism issues.

Teacher Jonathon Corbett says developing tourism business ideas helps students consider alternative paths to traditional education and possibly become entrepreneurs.

“Many students leave North Bay to pursue their careers. This project has students creating their own opportunities, while learning to appreciate the beauty of their own backyard,” Corbett says, “The presentation aspect prepares students for essential tourism skills, such as, pitching destinations, creating itineraries, promoting experiences, calculating costs and guiding.”

The focus on local tourism helped to keep student projects as realistic as possible. Students began researching currently available tourism options and identified gaps they could fill. Most were able to find unique opportunities in their own backyard, of which they were previously unaware.

Local tourism boosts our economy, creates jobs, and provides sustainable and accessible opportunities in Northern Ontario. It also helps students appreciate their own region’s culture and attractions, which is key for building community pride and promoting nearby destinations. There were a couple of exchange students who created business plans in their home countries, which helped broaden the class’s overall perspective.

Student business ideas included guided eco-tours of the natural beauty of the North Bay area, a rage room where customers could pay to destroy appliances, dishes and furniture as a fun and safe expression of their frustrations and a pet café where customers can enjoy coffee and snacks while their pet plays in a friendly environment.

Darren Patey, partnership and product development lead with Northeastern Ontario Tourism, said the presentations were well thought out and the students delivered a variety of ideas. It was great to see the students work on their presentation skills, as speaking to a group is something not many are comfortable with.

“There were a few students offering guiding and or workshop-type products that stood out to me. We are seeing an increase in the demand from visitors for experiential products, where they could learn about the history, learn a skill, or achieve a connection to a community,” Patey said. “Whether that product is about bushcraft style camping, doing a polar plunge, or making jewelry or food, it was great to see students seeking opportunities to include local ingredients and partnerships.”

Travel and tourism student Tam said, “I really enjoyed this project because it showed me so many ways to start up my business idea and how to get a good picture of what I would expect if I started my business idea. The money would honestly be a challenge, but I would research a lot more into getting started. My business plan would be really cool and eco-friendly and safe and kind of cheap. After this project, I’m going to look into it and see how I can start and bring my idea to life.”

NNDSB – Letter to Families from Director MacJanet

January 19, 2026 By Brett

Monday, Jan. 19, 2026

Dear Families and Community Members,

I am writing to you as the newly appointed Director of Education for the Near North District School Board. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve your children and to work alongside families and communities to support student success, safety, and well-being.

Over the past week, I have had the chance to visit several of our schools and meet with principals, staff, and members of our Board Office team. I was warmly welcomed everywhere I went and was impressed by the care, dedication, and commitment shown to students each day. I look forward to being in all of our schools by the beginning of February and continuing to build strong, positive relationships across the district.

Our shared goal is simple and important: making sure every student feels safe, supported, and able to learn and succeed. We know this work cannot be done by schools alone. When families, schools, and community partners work together, students benefit the most.

As we move forward, our decisions will be guided by what is best for students, using data, evidence, and a strong focus on both achievement and well-being. While we cannot change the past, we cannot stay there either. We must look ahead with care and intention.

I recognize that some families and community members may feel that trust has been broken. We own that. Rebuilding trust will take time, consistent actions, and open communication. We ask for the opportunity to repair that trust and to move forward together. This work cannot be done without families and communities as partners, and while it will take time, we are fully committed to doing this work thoughtfully and transparently.

There will be some changes as we look ahead. These changes will always be guided by our responsibility to provide safe, welcoming, and high-quality learning environments for students. Alongside this, we are committed to improving communication and transparency so families and communities feel informed, heard, and connected to the work taking place across the system.

Hearing from families is essential. I would welcome the opportunity to meet with any and all School Council Chairs who would like to connect. If you are interested in meeting, please speak with your school principal, who can then reach out to my office to help plan a time. I want to better understand your school communities’ strengths, as well as your worries, frustrations, and hopes for the future. Your voices matter, and they will help guide our work.

I am confident that by working together—listening to one another and keeping students at the centre of every decision—we can build a strong and positive future for all learners in Near North.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership. I look forward to meeting many of you in the weeks ahead.

Sincerely,

Jay MacJanet
Director of Education
Near North District School Board

Jay MacJanet appointed as NNDSB Director of Education

January 5, 2026 By Brett

Monday, January 5, 2026

Jay MacJanet appointed as NNDSB Director of Education

The Near North District School Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Jay MacJanet as Director of Education effective January 6, 2026.

Originally from Sault Ste. Marie, Mr. MacJanet brings over 26 years of experience in public education to his role as Director of Education for the Near North District School Board. He began his career as a teacher and later served thirteen years as a principal with the District School Board of Niagara. Over the past five years, he held the role of Superintendent of Education with the Trillium Lakelands District School Board.

“I am deeply honoured and excited to serve the students, families, staff, and communities of the Near North District School Board,” said Mr. MacJanet. “Public education is strongest when schools, families, and communities work together in trust and partnership. I believe our shared focus must always remain on student achievement, well-being, and preparing every learner for future success. I look forward to listening, learning, and working alongside staff, parents, and community partners to build on the strong foundation already in place across Near North.”

A strong advocate for evidence-based decision-making, Mr. MacJanet believes that sound leadership grounded in research and data is fundamental to school system success. He holds a firm conviction that student achievement and students’ future success must remain the number one priority of a school board. He also emphasizes the importance of teamwork, trust, transparency, and a positive organizational culture as essential ingredients in strengthening relationships among communities, parents, staff, and students.

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Minister’s Letter to NNDSB Parents – Parry Sound

December 16, 2025 By Brett

Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025

Dear Parents and Guardians,

I want to thank you for your patience and commitment to your children’s education. I know the delays in building the new K-12 school in Parry Sound have caused frustration and uncertainty for many families. Please know that we hear you and share your determination to see this project completed.

Last week, I visited both Parry Sound and North Bay to see firsthand how students, educators and staff are being supported. I toured the new K-12 school currently under construction to receive an in-person update on progress, and I spent time in the existing, partially demolished Parry Sound High School to meet the students and educators. I also sat down with board leadership and staff to discuss the status of the project and the next steps required. These conversations and visits reinforced our focus on finding a clear path forward that prioritizes the needs of students and the community.

Based on my visit and an assessment of the project’s progress, it has become clear that the new K–12 school will not be ready to open before September 2026. I understand how disappointing this news is for families who have been waiting far too long. I have directed the board to continue to provide detailed and timely updates with families as this work moves forward.

While it is no secret this project has faced numerous challenges and setbacks, let me assure you that we are taking strong action to get it back on track. We will engage a project manager to oversee the remaining construction and ensure accountability every step of the way.

In addition, the ministry and my office have been in very close contact with the board regarding the situation at White Woods Public School, which was temporarily closed following a recent classroom fire. We are reassured that the transition of students to Northern Secondary School is proceeding smoothly, with strong supports in place and a clear plan to welcome students back to White Woods after the holiday break.

We will support the Near North District School Board in building strong, stable governance and delivering the high-quality learning environments that all students across the board deserve.

Sincerely,

The Honourable Paul Calandra

Minister of Education

Students explore military careers with 33rd Battalion

December 5, 2025 By Brett

Friday, Dec. 5, 2025

Students explore military careers with 33^rd Battalion

Near North District School Board (NNDSB) students, their families and teachers explored military careers as they learned about a new paid co-operative (co-op) education program. The co-op open house was hosted by the Canadian Armed Forces and the Algonquin Regiment, held recently at the Martin Leo Troy Armoury in North Bay.

Students attended a presentation, participated in a question-and-answer session and toured the armoury to discover military trades. At trade-specific stations, students were introduced to roles such a vehicle technician, weapons tech, human resources and financial services.

Students who participate in the co-op will enrol as a Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) primary reserve non-commissioned member. Once they pass basic military qualification, further training includes military driver qualification, winter warfare/survival training, combat logistics and trade qualification training. Upon completion, participants can choose to continue serving and begin occupation specialty training over the summer.

The co-op will be full-time for the second semester of the 2025-2026 school year.

NNDSB’s Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) Recruiter Roy Desjardins, said, “This initiative provided an exceptional opportunity for students exploring careers in the military. The service personnel were professional, welcoming, and highly engaged, sharing valuable insights into their career paths. The event offered a meaningful learning experience for our students, and plans are already underway to build on this success in the years ahead.”

Sgt Jean Knight, Unit Recruiting NCO, 33 Service Battalion, said students “participated in the virtual range simulator, competed to see who could do the most pushups and sit-ups, put on military kit and see what is used in a field setting. The engagement of the students was off the charts!”

By participating in the co-op, students can earn academic credits while they obtain military training – discipline, leadership and technical skills. They will be paid, receive medical and dental coverage and have guaranteed summer employment.

Sgt. Knight said there was a lot of positivity, excitement, and motivation to learn more about the program. “With many applications coming through, we are excited to continue to build on this success and provide opportunities for more young adults to join the CAF reserves through the co-op program.”

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NNDSB Board Highlights – November 18, 2025

November 21, 2025 By Brett

Friday, Nov. 21, 2025

The following are the highlights of the Near North District School Board (NNDSB) meeting of Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025.

Admin guidelines open for consultation

Trustees were provided with draft revised administrative guidelines, which are now in the process of a 30-day public consultation.

The first draft revised administrative guideline is about adult education and includes the need for all learners to adhere to the code of conduct. The second is about the exclusion of students, and provides increased clarity on reporting attendance and achievement for students on exclusion. The third guideline is about home instruction and provides clarity about reporting attendance and achievement for students receiving home instruction.

All guidelines open for public consultation can be found on this page, by opening the first accordion on the page.

Director’s report to the Board

The Director of Education’s report to the Board of Trustees included recognizing the work accomplished by staff since the start of the school year. The report also expressed appreciation to trustees for their support in navigating challenges, and noted the dedication of newly appointed trustees to bring the board back to the central focus of student achievement and well-being.

Sundridge Centennial Public School was recognized for once again opening its doors and parking lot on Halloween night to provide a warm space for trick-or-treaters and a gathering place for residents. Principal Jill Cooper noted that schools should act as a critical part of the community and should act to create a solution when needs are identified in the community.

Students at Almaguin Highlands Secondary School are being supported in their efforts to curb vaping. Many partners, including the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit, contributed to the students designing and building an anti-vaping gazebo, meant to act as a gathering point for lunchtime activities.

Students at White Woods Public School in Sturgeon Falls set out to raise $4,500 in their Terry Fox Run, but raised a whopping $12,000 this year. Congratulations to

staff for their dedication to these efforts, and to students and their families for supporting this cause.

External member of audit committee appointed

Trustees approved the recommendation of the audit committee’s external member selection committee to appoint Narmada Subramanian to the audit committee as an external member.

This is a three-year term effective immediately and ending on Nov. 17, 2028.

Indigenous Student Trustee Trudeau’s report

Indigenous Student Trustee Riley Trudeau reported that the first in-person meeting of the Indigenous Youth Circle (IYC) took place in at Northern Secondary School. Unfortunately, the rep from Parry Sound High School had to attend virtually. The group discussed IYC merchandise, and each member provided school updates. At its last meeting, IYC chose the Chanie Wenjack Fund to receive IYC’s give back fundraising.

At Almaguin Highlands Secondary School, IYC participated in Walk for Wenjack, Treaty Week, Louis Riel Day and Rock your Mocs. The group is also looking to start a medicine garden in their school.

Chippewa’s IYC meets weekly, and is planning a moccasin workshop for secondary school students.

At F.J. McElligott, IYC held a Truth and Reconciliation presentation for all students and staff. There were a number of activities, and the junior phys ed students played lacrosse and learned about the national league and the Indigenous history behind the game.

Northern Secondary School’s IYC worked on Walk for Wenjack events and is planning to bring an artist to work on painting. There were also plans for Treaty Week and Indigenous Veteran’s Day. The group hopes for beading and braiding workshops. Most of the IYC members are graduating this year, so there are recruitment efforts at the school.

West Ferris’ IYC worked on Walk for Wenjack events and has incorporated drumming into the school with women’s hand drumming, and Grandfather drumming starting soon. There was a hide scraping workshop, as well as beading and medicine pouch workshops. Intermediate students attend IYC meetings once a month.

Student Trustee Bassi’s report

Student Trustee Dev Bassi reported that NNDSB students continue with many extracurricular activities, with midterms now over.

He spoke about different initiatives at secondary schools, including Socktober at Chippewa, which collected 400 pairs of new socks for donation to local shelters, and a stem cell swab-in and information session run by two students with support from Canadian Blood Services.

West Ferris’ positivity committee made brochures to promote wellness and provide resources to students, and at Almaguin, a BBQ was part of an anti-vaping campaign. Students from F.J. McElligott went to Stratford to see productions of Annie and MacBeth.

Bassi reported that fall sports are wrapping up with many teams making their way to OFSAA.

Arts and other clubs are making an impact, with a fundraising concert at Chippewa to raise money for OutLOUD North Bay, a new games club at Almaguin, and McElligott students preparing for their holiday play.

Student Senate met on Nov. 5 in person at Laurentian Learning Centre. Senators discussed the effect of the Take Back Your Washrooms campaign and how to move the initiative forward.

Bassi noted that as Vice-President of Public Education at OSTA-AÉCO, he recently attended OSTA’s fall general meeting, where he met with many speakers and gained professional development regarding consent education, student well-being, equity, diversity and inclusivity, and truth and reconciliation. He also hosted two sessions for public student trustees from all across Ontario. One session was about OPSBA, student advocacy, and Bill 33; the second session provided professional development regarding teamwork and public speaking.

Change to June 2026 PA day

Trustees approved a motion to changes the PA day in June 2026 from June 4 to June 5.

Initially, boards selected June 4 as the PA day following direction from the ministry, as that day was pre-set as an election day. As elections have been held, there is no reason to keep Thursday as the PA day. Nipissing Parry Sound Student Transportation Services (NPSSTS, or the consortium) is aware of the change.

The updated school-year calendar and co-terminus boards’ notice can be found here.

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Note: the full agenda package is posted on the website prior to meetings, and official minutes are posted after they are approved at the next Board meeting.

New Chair and Vice-chair elected at NNDSB’s annual organizational meeting

November 19, 2025 By Brett

Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025

New Chair and Vice-chair elected at NNDSB’s annual organizational meeting

The annual organizational meeting of the Board of Trustees of Near North District School Board (NNDSB) last night saw a change in leadership at the Board.

Zone 1 Trustee Jay Aspin, who returned to the Board in September following a trustee resignation, was elected as Chair. He was nominated by Trustee John Arkwright, who noted Chair Aspin’s long record of public service, including two decades with the school board.

In his address, Chair Aspin thanked out-going Chair Ashley St. Pierre for her work over the past 18 months. He said he is “humbled” by having the responsibility of being Chair of NNDSB, and acknowledged the challenges ahead are “unlike we have ever faced before.”

He referenced the 15 binding directions placed on NNDSB by the Ministry of Education, adding, “they’re not suggestions. They are directions – firm and necessary. A call to action to regain public trust and confidence.”

Aspin stated that he would not shy away from the responsibility, and “will lead with clarity, courage and collaboration,” treating the directions not as a burden, but as an opportunity. Working as a strong team, Aspin said the Board’s vision must be bold and needs to ensure every decision reflects the best interests of students, stabilizes and restores confidence in governance and leadership, strengthens accountability to the public, embraces transparency and promotes unity among trustees, staff and families, “because divided boards cannot deliver strong schools”.

Zone 1 Trustee Bill Steer was elected to the role of Vice-Chair. He was nominated by Trustee Krista Messenger, who noted Steer’s deep ties to public education and his breadth of experience. Messenger noted that Steer has contributed to NNDSB and Ontario public education steadily, working on parent engagement, the board’s Multi-Year Strategic Plan, contributing as an active Director with the Ontario Public School Boards’ Association (OPSBA) and personally mentoring new trustees.

The new Chair and Vice-chair will serve for the fourth and final year of the Board’s four-year term. The 2022-2026 Board of Trustees is composed of these trustees.

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Update to June 2026 PA Day

November 19, 2025 By Brett

Nov. 19, 2025

Update to June 2026 PA Day

Dear families and community partners,

On behalf of the four local school boards, we would like to advise that there has been a change to the June 2026 Professional Activity (PA) Day in our school year calendar. The PA Day originally scheduled for Thursday, June 4, 2026, will now take place on Friday, June 5, 2026.

This change was made to better support families, childcare arrangements, and weekend planning. The original date was chosen to coincide with anticipated federal and provincial election dates (October 20, 2025, and June 4, 2026), following Ministry of Education guidance to all Ontario school boards. However, as both elections have now taken place, it is no longer necessary to hold the PA Day on June 4.

We appreciate your understanding and flexibility as we make this adjustment to better serve our school communities while prioritizing student well-being.

If you have any questions, please contact your child(ren)’s school directly.

Thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely,

Conseil scolaire catholique Franco-Nord

Conseil scolaire public du Nord-Est de l’Ontario

Near North District School Board

Nipissing-Parry Sound Catholic District School Board

November Letter to Families

November 7, 2025 By Brett

Friday, Nov. 7, 2025

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The monthly Letter to Families, distributed on the first Friday of the month, is intended to keep you apprised of news that affects all students and families of Near North District School Board (NNDSB).

As a complement to existing math lessons and practice, TVO Learn Mathify connects students in Grades 4-12 with free 1:1 online math tutoring. All tutors are Ontario Certified Teachers, and available to help the student(s) in your life better understand math concepts and questions, from the simple to the complex.

TVO Learn Mathify is designed to address a student’s individual learning style. It’s safe, secure and free for all Grade 4-12 students enrolled in Ontario’s publicly funded English-language schools. You can learn more about TVO Learn Mathify here.

Grade 1 and 2 NNDSB students have access to DreamBox Math, a high-quality and engaging digital tool that is personalized to their grade-level curriculum and skill level. Students can access this adaptive mathematics learning resource from their home computer or iPad.

Click here for more information about logging in to DreamBox, accessing family dashboards, and other tips and tricks. (Please note some of our NNDSB Grade 3 students also use DreamBox in their classrooms and can access it at home.)

The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit reminds residents that seasonal flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available through primary care providers, participating pharmacies and upcoming community clinics.

For more information on clinics, visit this page of the health unit’s website.

School Mental Health Ontario has provided webinars for families on a variety of topics, including substance abuse, addictive behaviours and youth mental health.

If you missed the webinars, they are now available on the By Your Side parent hub, which can be accessed here.

School Mental Health Ontario’s Thrive School Mental Health (Thrive SMH) is recruiting student and parent, and caregiver reference group applicants.

The student group is comprised of passionate students from school boards across the province who help to develop and review resources, share student perspectives and support or lead mental health promotion initiatives.

Students must be in Grades 7 to 10 and attending an English-language, publicly funded school board in Ontario. Applications will be open on the student blog from Nov. 3-30.

The Parent and Caregiver Collaboration Group (PCCG) is a group of parents/caregivers who help to inform the work of SMH-ON by contributing to parent/caregiver mental health literacy through co-development of resources. The group offers perspectives, insights and ongoing input to assist in the advancement of identity-affirming resources and support.

To apply to PCCG, parents/caregivers must have a child in Grades JK-12 registered in an English-language publicly funded school board in Ontario. Applications will be open Nov. 3-30. Application information will be posted on the parent/caregiver blog.

The Youth-VAST (Vaping, Alcohol, Substance Use, and Technology) Dependence Program is Canada’s first personalized youth addiction program that provides team-based care to address many types of addiction. The program offers free and confidential treatment to youth aged 12 to 21 living in Ontario to help them develop healthy coping strategies, access specialized treatment, and build resilience in managing their addiction, either in-person or virtually. No referral is necessary.

Youth in the program will meet with a care coach who will listen and help them build a way forward to change their behaviours. They will get personalized treatment to manage cravings and triggers, and if needed, they will meet with a physician for medication.

To learn more and to get a youth started, visit WeHearYou.ca.

The next meeting of the Board will be held Tuesday, Nov. 18 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting is open to the public, and you are welcome to attend in person or join via Zoom. Here is the link to the meeting. The Meeting ID is 899 1167 8742; the Passcode is 859936, and the number for Dial in is 1-855-703-8985.

If attending in person, please confirm attendance by contacting Gerrilyn Cicciarelli at 705-472-8170 ext. 5028 or GerriLyn.Cicciarelli@nearnorthschools.ca.

Information about the Board, committees and their meetings can be found here.

In addition to staying informed via the board’s website, families can find NNDSB on Facebook and Instagram.

Sincerely,

Near North District School Board

Student-led anti-vape campaign draws a crowd

October 24, 2025 By Brett

Friday, Oct. 24, 2025

Student-led anti-vape campaign draws a crowd

Students at Almaguin Highlands Secondary School (AHSS) recently launched their student-led anti-vaping campaign with a lunchtime barbecue, featuring free food, games, activities, and the unveiling of a student-built anti-vape gazebo.

The student-led initiative is an evolution of the school’s anti-vaping measures, which began more than two years ago with the installation of vape detectors, student education and staff training.

AHSS Principal Heather Hickey said the event was held to celebrate the incredible work and ideas of students who contributed to the construction of the anti-vape gazebo and the organization of the anti-vaping campaign.

More than 600 students participated in the school-wide extended lunch barbecue, enjoying great food, fun, and community spirit. The celebration featured a variety of student-requested games and activities, including frisbees, footballs, washer toss, ladder toss, tetherball, and art stations. The event also saw around 50 vapes collected from students in exchange for cessation tools like suckers and gum.

“The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit has been a vital partner in our efforts to address vaping in schools,” said Hickey. “From the initial installation of vape detectors, they supported us by providing educational resources for students and parents, attending school events and parent-teacher nights to raise awareness about addiction and the health impacts of vaping. In our second year, they continued their support as we piloted the Zeptive app, an initiative aimed at helping students who want to quit vaping,” she said.

Thanks to many community partners, including the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit, students were given a green light to design and build the gazebo under the guidance of construction teacher Carter Schaffner. The gazebo will act as the gathering point for lunchtime activities.

Hickey said all the hard work is paying off, noting that staff have seen a noticeable decline in the number of students leaving school property to vape compared to previous years. She said the improvement is supported by proactive communication between the administration team and incoming Grade 9 families, helping to educate and set expectations early.

Additionally, stronger relationships between staff and students have fostered open conversations about vaping, including support for those looking to reduce or quit. These positive connections have contributed to a more informed and health-conscious student body.

“Student participation is key in all of the steps along the way; it gives students pride in having an active role in contributing to the ideas as vapers and non-vapers. When students help create the messaging, it resonates more with their peers,” Hickey said. “They understand the language, the culture, and the real-life contexts in which vaping happens. This makes the campaign more relatable and impactful.”

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