MENUMENU
  • Board
    • Find a School
    • Contact Us
    • Site Map
  • Students
    • Edsby
    • Office 365
    • Virtual Library
    • LMS
    • Clever
    • Career Cruising
  • Parents
    • Parent Portal
    • Bus Delays/Cancellations
    • School Cash Online

Near North District School Board

MENUMENU
  • Go to homepage
  • Schools
        • Find Your School
        • District Map
        • How do I Register?
        • Contact Us
  • Programs
        • Programs

        • e-Learning
        • Alternative and Adult Education
        • Adult English as a Second Language
        • English as a Second Language
        • Extended French
        • French Immersion
        • Indigenous Education
        • Equity and Well-Being / Safe and Accepting Schools
        • Programs (cont.)

        • Kindergarten
        • Special Education
        • Summer School
        • Specialized Programs

        • Arts Nipissing
        • Dual Credits
        • International Baccalaureate
        • Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program
        • Near North Sports
        • Personal Support Worker (PSW)
        • Custodial Services Program
        • Specialist High Skills Major
        • STEAM Program
  • Parents
        • General Information

        • Diploma Requirements
        • Indigenous Student Self-Identification
        • School Calendar
        • Stay informed
        • Who Should I Talk To?
        • Xello Parent
        • Starting at NNDSB

        • Childcare & School-Aged Programs
        • Parent Involvement
        • School Registration
        • Transportation
        • Login

        • Manage My Account
        • Parent Portal
        • School Cash Online
  • Board
        • Administration

        • Senior Administration
        • Board and Committee Meetings
        • Board Governance
        • Board of Trustees
        • Director’s Annual Report
        • Multi-Year Plan
        • 2021: A Year in Review
        • Operations

        • Capital Planning
        • Financial Information
        • Tenders & RFPs
        • General Information

        • ​Accessibility Standards for Customer Service
        • Administrative Guidelines
        • Community Use of Schools
        • Concussion Resources
        • Energy Management
        • Safe Schools Guidelines
  • Learning Resources
        • Clever
        • Copyright Decision Tool
        • Edsby
        • eLearning (LMS)
        • Passport to Learning
        • Learn 360
        • Manage my Account
        • Microsoft Teams
        • Ontario Education Resource Bank
        • Office 365 Apps
        • Office 365 Mail
        • TVO Mathify
        • Virtual Library
        • Xello
  • Communications
        • About Communications
        • Social Media at NNDSB
        • Media Contact
        • Media Releases
        • Blog
  • Join Our Team

URGENT – Letter to Families – status of schools

November 4, 2022 By Deb

Friday, Nov. 4, 2022

Dear Parents and Guardians;

In addition to following the status of the labour disruption involving Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), Near North District School Board (NNDSB) has been in regular contact with our open schools, evaluating the feasibility of maintaining in-person learning.

After communicating with principals and vice-principals and consulting with the board’s facilities department, NNDSB has determined it is unable to meet the health and safety requirements for all students while the services of CUPE members are withdrawn.

All NNDSB schools will be closed to in-person learning as of Monday, Nov. 7, 2022, except special education classes in secondary schools that were open Friday, Nov. 4, 2022 (Parry Sound High School, Almaguin Highlands Secondary School, West Ferris Secondary School, Chippewa Secondary School). We are sending this message out as early as possible so families may make arrangements for alternative childcare.

In order to support its highest needs students, NNDSB will make efforts to re-open elementary special education classes beginning Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2022, with more information to come from these schools on Monday, Nov. 7, 2022.

Schools will communicate on Monday, Nov. 7, 2022 about at-home learning for students, and how families can support their child(ren).

NNDSB’s website has a new icon that directs families and stakeholders to a labour disruptions news page. It includes resources to support families and all communications that have been issued related to the disruption.

Should the labour disruption be settled over the weekend, additional information will be sent to families.

We understand this labour action is challenging to families and appreciate your understanding as we navigate it together.

Sincerely,

Near North District School Board

Filed Under: News and Announcements, NNDSB Featured, NNDSB Shared News

New EQAO assessments, reporting tools will inform efforts to close learning gaps, strengthen literacy and math skills

November 4, 2022 By Deb

Friday, Nov. 4, 2022

New EQAO assessments, reporting tools will inform efforts to close learning gaps, strengthen literacy and math skills

The Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) has released the results of the Grades 3 and 6 assessments of reading, writing and mathematics as well as the Grade 9 mathematics and Grade 10 Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT).

The 2021–2022 school year marked a return to EQAO’s provincial assessment administrations, which had been paused for the prior two years. For the first time, Near North District School Board (NNDSB) students completed the new digitalized and modernized EQAO assessments. As per the Ministry of Education direction, students learning in person (and students learning remotely who wrote in person) participated in the assessments in the 2021–2022 school year.

“We wish to recognize the effort that our staff and students have put forth and the resilience they have shown throughout the COVID-19 disruptions to learning. As we work collaboratively to support learning recovery and renewal, the information generated from the EQAO assessments will help to inform our next steps at the system, school and classroom level,” said Superintendent of Teaching and Learning Melanie Gray.

The impact of the pandemic is being observed in early literacy and math achievement across grades and these results are consistent with trends that have been observed across our region and the province. The 2021-2022 EQAO results will help our board identify the areas that students need support, to ensure they catch up and are able to achieve future success.

The results will help establish a new baseline that captures the impacts of the pandemic and improvements to Ontario’s education system that have occurred since the last time the tests were administered. The 2021-2022 NNDSB results reveal an increase in the percentage of students who were successful in the OSSLT and indicate some positive outcomes in the area of Grade 6 reading and writing. Performance in math across all divisions and reading and writing in Grade 3 will continue to be a system-wide focus as we work to help our students overcome the COVID-19 disruptions to learning.

Reading and Writing

Grades 3 and 6: While results vary by school, the overall trends showed a decline in Grade 3 reading and writing achievement when compared to pre-pandemic measures. However, Grade 6 scores demonstrated positive results in both reading and writing.

  • Grade 3: In 2021-2022, 62.4 per cent of Grade 3 students met the provincial standard in reading and 45 per cent of Grade 3 students met the provincial standard in writing.
  • Grade 6: In 2021-2022, 79.4 per cent of Grade 6 students met the provincial standard in reading and 72.6 per cent of Grade 6 students met the provincial standard in writing

Grade 10: The Grade 10 literacy test is a compulsory standardized test for all secondary school students in Ontario wishing to obtain an Ontario Secondary School Diploma. The test is based on all of the reading and writing expectations in all subjects up to the end of Grade 9. In 2021-2022, 91 per cent of first-time eligible students participated in the OSSLT and 71 per cent of them were successful.

Mathematics

Grades 3 and 6: Improving mathematics results for both primary and junior divisions will continue to be a focus for learning recovery and renewal efforts. This year, board math facilitators and school-based math facilitators have been assigned to support classroom-embedded professional learning and implement high-impact instructional practices to improve outcomes in mathematics. The district continues to work in partnership with lead educators and communities to develop responsive approaches to mathematics learning and to create engaging learning environments that will lead to improved performance for all students. In 2021-2022, 42.2 per cent of Grade 3 students and 27 per cent of Grade 6 students met the provincial standard in the EQAO mathematics assessments.

Grade 9: In 2021-2022, a new universal and de-streamed secondary mathematics curriculum was introduced. The Grade 9 EQAO assessment is now a computer-based, adaptive assessment that measures the mathematics skills students are expected to have learned by the end of the Grade 9 mathematics course. Thirty-four per cent of students who wrote the Grade 9 de-streamed math test met the provincial standard in 2021-2022.

EQAO results are just one of many assessment tools that both schools and boards use to measure and improve upon the quality of student programming and student success. The new modernized, digital assessments and reporting tools will inform efforts to close gaps in learning and strengthen literacy and math skills.

-30-

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
Near North District School Board
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Filed Under: Media Releases, News and Announcements, NNDSB Featured, NNDSB Shared News

November 2022 Letter to Families

November 4, 2022 By Deb

Friday, Nov. 4, 2022

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).

*

NNDSB is proud to offer all parents the ability to access their child’s report cards via Edsby. This pertains to all elementary and secondary reporting, including the elementary progress reports (Grades 1-8) and the initial observations of learning reports (kindergarten), which will be available to parents after 2 p.m. on Nov. 16, 2022.

Please be aware that as schools work to get these reports online, there may be a slight delay. If you do not see your child’s report by Nov. 17, please reach out to your school. If you have not yet logged into Edsby or created an account, please visit this page of NNDSB’s website that explains how to create an account and login.

*

Municipal elections were held Monday, Oct. 24, which included the positions of school board trustees.

NNDSB is still awaiting the name of an appointee, and until all trustees have been determined, will not be publishing the names of the 2022-2026 Board members.

The Board’s inaugural meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 15 at 6:30 p.m. As a reminder, NNDSB Board meetings are open to the public and are usually held on the second Tuesday of each month. Agenda packages are posted to the website two days in advance of the meeting.

*

The Ministry of Education made an announcement late last month that outlined more action in its Plan to Catch Up, including Catch Up payments for families.

Families are being provided with up to $250 per child to help offset costs for additional tutoring supports, supplies or equipment to enhance student learning. The application portal will be open until March 31, 2023.

*

School Mental Health (SMH) Ontario is a provincial implementation support team that helps school districts enhance student mental health through the use of evidence-based strategies and services.

SMH provides leadership and coaching for educators and school/system leaders, as well as mental health awareness for parents and families, and a platform for student voice and leadership in school mental health.

The organization is seeking applicants to its parent/caregiver collaboration group. This group will share thoughts on what children need in order to thrive and the types of tools, education and supports parents and caregivers want to support their children’s mental health.

More information about the parent and caregiver collaboration group can be found here, and this is the application.

*

NNDSB is the first school board in Canada to have all their schools sign up for the 2022 I Read Canadian Day.

I Read Canadian Day is an initiative that celebrates the richness, diversity and breadth of Canadian literature. Taking place for the third year on Nov. 2, 2022, this celebration empowers families, schools, libraries, bookstores and organizations to host activities and events by reading Canadian books for just 15 minutes.

Award-winning Canadian author Eric Walters was so impressed, he took to social media and challenged other Canadian school boards to follow. He said, “The Near North District School Board has EVERY school signed up for I Read Canadian Day on November 2! How about some other boards matching?” ~ Eric Walters

Congratulations to all involved for participating in this wonderful investigation into Canadian literature.

*

NNDSB has several procedures that keep students and staff safe during events that take place inside and outside of schools. Frequently news stories and social media posts will refer to students being “in lockdown”, when in fact they are in a hold and secure.

This poster will explain to families the differences between a lockdown and a hold and secure. It outlines the reasons for which one may be called, and what happens at the school. Very often, a hold and secure is called when there is a medical situation at a school; a hold and secure keeps the hallways clear so first responders have clear access to the person and protects the dignity and privacy of the person during transport.

*

The board partners with outside organizations – YES Canada and MLI Homestay – to bring international secondary school students to NNDSB.

MLI currently has an urgent need for a homestay family in North Bay for a female Japanese student who is attending Chippewa Secondary School until June 2023. Compensation is provided to assist with expenses.

During their stay, students live with a local family and experience daily life in Canada while developing their English language skills through this immersion experience.

To learn more, contact Kayla at kknight@mlihomestay.com or call 587-222-7172 or visit www.mlihomestay.ca.

*

Regarding COVID-19 management, board facilities remain working under provincial direction without any additional measures put in place by the local health unit. It is recommended that all staff and students self-screen daily before they attend school and stay home if they are feeling unwell.

*

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

Sincerely,

Near North District School Board

Filed Under: News and Announcements, NNDSB Featured, NNDSB Shared News

Letter to Families – labour update

November 2, 2022 By Deb

Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2022

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As noted in our letter of Monday, Oct. 31, Near North District School Board (NNDSB) has been planning for any labour disruptions resulting from the provincial negotiations with the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE).

CUPE has announced that its members may not be at work on Friday, Nov. 4.

In NNDSB, CUPE represents school secretaries, custodial and maintenance staff, IT technicians, library technicians, as well as some finance and board support staff.

NNDSB is endeavouring to provide continuity of learning for students but must keep staff and student safety and well-being as a priority. After contingency planning, it has been determined that should the CUPE day of protest occur, some NNDSB elementary schools will remain open, some elementary and secondary schools will be closed to all students, and some secondary schools will only open for students attending self-contained special education classrooms.

Each school will be sending a communication to their families regarding the school’s status for Friday, Nov. 4.

Each school board in the province has varying employee groups represented by CUPE, so every board must make contingency plans based on their own circumstances. This is why you have heard of board-wide closures, while NNDSB is in the position to keep some schools and classrooms open.

If your child(ren) attends childcare in NNDSB schools, please contact your childcare provider for details on whether they will be open or closed on Friday.

All community use of schools permits will be suspended as of Friday, Nov. 4 until further notice. NNDSB does not have the capacity to maintain safe conditions for permit holders.

The status of negotiations is fluid, with on-going developments. We understand that this situation is challenging and requires that families also have contingency plans. The board appreciates your patience and understanding as we navigate this together.

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

Near North District School Board

Filed Under: News and Announcements, NNDSB Featured, NNDSB Shared News

Letter to Families – negotiations

October 31, 2022 By Deb

Monday, Oct. 31, 2022

Dear Parents and Guardians;

Near North District School Board (NNDSB) continues to monitor the provincial labour negotiations closely.

In NNDSB, Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) represents school secretaries, custodial and maintenance staff, IT technicians, library technicians, as well as some finance and board support staff.

We highly value the service of CUPE workers ​but note that negotiations are ​currently a provincial matter.

The board has been contingency planning to maintain the continuity of learning for students and, where possible, to try to keep schools open. We will endeavour to share information in a timely manner, recognizing that the current labour environment changes quickly and frequently.

Families will find updates on the board’s website and can find NNDSB on  Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Sincerely,

Near North District School Board

Filed Under: News and Announcements, NNDSB Featured, NNDSB Shared News

Board Highlights – Oct. 11, 2022 meeting

October 17, 2022 By Deb

Monday, Oct. 17, 2022

Board Highlights – Oct. 11, 2022 meeting

The following are the highlights of the Near North District School Board (NNDSB) meeting of Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2022.

Anna Pearson acknowledged for teaching excellence

Anna Pearson, a Grade 6 French Immersion teacher at Sunset Park Public School, was acknowledged at the Board meeting for being a recipient of the Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence.

Pearson uses a variety of teaching methods to encourage and empower students learning in French, by linking their experiences as French speakers through music, film, field trips and guest speakers. She is also committed to teaching her students about social justice, linking her teaching to current events and difficult subjects. Pearson’s work and its recognition exemplify NNDSB’s commitment to excellence in teaching and learning.

NNDSB issued a media release about the achievement.

Board receives mental health report 

The Board received a report outlining NNDSB’s three-year mental health and wellness strategy. The report follows stakeholder consultation and aligns with the board’s multi-year strategic plan (MYSP).

The following six value statements are key to NNDSB’s mental health and addictions strategy: collaboration with families; evidence-based outcome-informed approaches; community partnerships; equity in our diverse educational community and being accountable for the success and well-being of all; student voice to inform and guide our work; our staff, who play a vital role in promoting and supporting mental health.

The plan will be in effect until it is renewed and revised in the fall of 2025.

Here is a link to the report, which was part of the agenda package.

Trustees receive board improvement plan report 

The Board improvement plan for student achievement and well-being was presented to trustees. The plan explains how the four priorities of the MYSP (excellence in communication, excellence in relationships, excellence in teaching and learning and excellence in innovation) act as a guide in achieving the Ministry of Education’s core purpose of student achievement in literacy and mathematics and ensuring equity and well-being.

The board improvement plan details how a six-week cycle of plan, act, observe and reflect will be implemented to ensure alignment and consistency across all departments and schools.

The full report can be found here.

Director Myles provides report to Board

Director of Education Craig Myles’ report to the Board featured several pieces of good news.

This month’s report featured data to support the board’s commitment to excellence in communications. Analytics shows that the board’s social media platforms are steadily gaining new followers, and approximately 10 administrative guidelines have been revised and/or consolidated in the past year.

The app development cooperative education program that took place in the summer has resulted in paid employment for an NNDSB student. One of the summer students who developed a mobile app was offered a part-time position as a junior programmer. The student’s parent says the employer was impressed with the student’s knowledge and abilities with Swift and other coding languages.

The board’s environmental committee says the EcoSchool’s platform will be rolled out to schools this month. Staff and students will have the opportunity to learn how practices can reduce their environmental footprints and how their initiatives can work towards achieving the EcoSchool certification of environmental excellence.

NNDSB is proud of its partnership with the North Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre to see the grand opening of the Nizhwaas Asiniik Skoonweh Kahn (Seven Stones Learning Centre). The centre supports Indigenous adult learners in earning their Ontario Secondary School Diplomas with a cultural and decolonized approach.

NNDSB’s first Hockey Skills program has begun in partnership with Hockey Skills Canada and the Town of Parry Sound. The program will run at Parry Sound High School in semester one and Humphrey Public School in partnership with Seguin Township in semester two.

Notices of Motion filed for follow-up reports

Vice-Chair John Cochrane, First Nations Trustee Nichole King and Trustee Caren Gagne each filed a notice of motion at the committee-of-the-whole meeting, which was moved and passed at the Board meeting.

Vice-Chair Cochrane requested a thorough report regarding information received by the board from the Town of Parry Sound regarding the area’s population and the impact of population on the JK-12 build. Vice-Chair Cochrane also wanted misinformation about municipal funding clarified in the report.

Trustee King’s notice of motion was for an updated report about the actions taken and next steps in the healing process following damage to the Shapatuan at Parry Sound High School. Trustee King sought follow-up on the board’s commitment to strengthen relationships and support the healing process for students.

Trustee Gagne requested the board write a letter to the Ministry of Education advocating for a stronger commitment to student transportation supports. School transportation challenges are being felt across the province, and Trustee Gagne said the cancellations are particularly disruptive in her area.

Multi-Year Strat Plan Committee report

As the board enters its second year of the 2021-2026 MYSP, the committee has set its sights on evaluating the plan. The MYSP committee will bring a report to the Board quarterly and will provide a data report at the January and June 2023 meetings that showcase the progress/growth. Further data will be highlighted in the Director’s monthly update to trustees.

Board receives update on Dreamcoat agreement conclusion

NNDSB trustees received a report regarding administration’s decision to accept the conclusion of the agreement with Dreamcoat Fantasy Theatre (DFT). Following the expiration of the agreement in 2018, DTF has been asked to remove its items from storage at West Ferris Secondary School, as the space is required for NNDSB programming and instructional needs.

During the committee-of-the-whole meeting, members of the community expressed interest in providing input regarding future opportunities for DFT to access space with NNDSB. The Board of Trustees voted in favour of hosting a community meeting to welcome broader public input.

Chair lauded trustees for service to education

Board Chair Jay Aspin acknowledged that the Oct. 11 meeting was the last scheduled of the term for this Board. In his remarks, he outlined the many significant accomplishments implemented during the term.

He said he was proud and privileged to be part of the team that accomplished so much since its first meeting in 2018 during a very disruptive pandemic. He stated our board has been elevated to a Board that is well respected in the province.

He acknowledged Trustees Donna Breault, Rob Learn and Al Bottomley, who are not seeking re-election. Chair Aspin thanked them for their time and efforts in public service and students’ education.

School board trustees will be elected in the Oct. 24 municipal election.

-30-

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.

For more information, please contact:
Deb Bartlett (she/her)
Communications Officer
Near North District School Board
P. (705) 472-8170 ext. 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Filed Under: Media Releases, News and Announcements, NNDSB Featured, NNDSB Shared News

Before-school childcare program opens at Mapleridge PS

October 14, 2022 By Deb

Friday, Oct. 14, 2022

Before-school childcare program opens at Mapleridge PS

Near North District School Board (NNDSB) is pleased to announce that a new before-school childcare program has opened at Mapleridge Public School in Powassan for the 2022-2023 school year.

Currently, the District of Parry Sound Social Services Administration Board (PSDSSAB) operates an after-school program for school-aged children at Mapleridge. “We are pleased to be piloting this expansion of our School-Age Program in Powassan to include before-school care for children ages 4-12 starting at 7:30 a.m.,” said Brenda Wiltshire, manager of directly operated childcare programs for the PSDSSAB.

NNDSB’s Superintendent of Early Years, Gay Smylie added, “NNDSB values its strong partnership with PSDSSAB as we work together to provide services that benefit children and their families. We are so fortunate to expand the program to provide care for children before the school day starts. This takes the pressure off families that need to get to work but also ensure their children are cared for before the school day starts.”

This expansion was a result of data obtained in the annual childcare viability survey, which is supported by the Nipissing and Parry Sound Social Services Administration Boards. Due to an increase in need for before-school care, the Parry Sound DSSAB was willing to expand its current offering at Mapleridge. This is wonderful news for the families of Powassan and surrounding area and for students who will now experience one less transition in their school day.

Families wishing to register for the program can contact the Parry Sound DSSAB office at 1-800-661-3230.

-30-

For more information, please contact
Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
Near North District School Board
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Filed Under: Media Releases, News and Announcements, NNDSB Featured, NNDSB Shared News

Vice-Chair Cochrane moves to correct misinformation about funding allocation in Parry Sound

October 12, 2022 By Deb

Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2022

Vice-Chair Cochrane moves to correct misinformation about funding allocation in Parry Sound

Near North District School Board (NNDSB)’s Vice-Chair John Cochrane brought forward a notice of motion that aims to correct misinformation circulating about the new JK-12 school and allocation of spending in Parry Sound.

The Vice-Chair is the Zone 4 Trustee for Parry Sound and filed the notice of motion in response to a letter to the Board and a meeting he was invited to attend. The letter, from the Town of Parry Sound, expressed concerns about the area’s potential population growth and council’s desire for another accommodation review around the new Parry Sound JK-12 school.

Board Chair Jay Aspin said, “Our Vice-Chair has been the model of integrity, transparency and solid initiatives towards the betterment of our students, particularly in the Parry Sound area he represents. It is not surprising that he is requesting this report as he has indicated that it is important that all stakeholders in that region be provided with accurate information regarding our board’s operations. Our Board takes very seriously the provision of correct information or the correction of misinformation which may impact our students negatively.”

Vice-Chair Cochrane wanted to act quickly on behalf of his constituents and bring the matter to the Board. He requested that a report be researched and written, presented to the Board in open session and made available to the public, consistent with the Board’s commitments to accountability and transparency.

“It’s important to me that constituents know NNDSB is willing to work with all levels of government,” said Vice-Chair Cochrane. “NNDSB wants what is best for students, and that is to get an education in Parry Sound that prepares students for the future.”

-30-

Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
Near North District School Board
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Filed Under: Media Releases, News and Announcements, NNDSB Featured, NNDSB Shared News

Truth and Reconciliation message

September 30, 2022 By Deb

Friday, Sept. 30, 2022

To Near North District School Board families, staff, and community partners,

Today is National Truth and Reconciliation Day; it is recognized throughout the lands now known as Canada to further acknowledge the truths of our shared history. We wear orange today to commemorate the survivors and lost children of residential schools and bring further awareness to the history and legacies of the residential school system.

Indigenous traditional teachings speak loudly to our connection to each other. We are reminded by Indigenous Peoples that our collective commitment to living in the best way involves thinking seven generations into the future. We are further reminded how we can continue our path towards reconciliation every day in meaningful and authentic ways, learning in truth, together.

Near North District School Board (NNDSB) is grateful to continue to learn from Indigenous students, staff, and community. We value and are committed to our shared path to further support learning and understanding around colonization and its continuing effects on Indigenous Peoples. With reconciliation comes action.

As we mourn the children whose lives were taken, remember the survivors, and acknowledge the legacy of these schools, we renew our commitment to our role in Truth and Reconciliation.

The board supports all students, staff, and community members in learning about the truth and devastating legacy caused by residential schools. We wear our orange shirts to show our commitment to reconciliation, and trust that our schools will provide education that is relevant and meaningful to their communities.

NNDSB is committed to ensuring that the board, its schools, and staff are actively engaged in responding to the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action, specifically 62 and  63.

Sincerely,

Jay Aspin                        Craig Myles
Chair of the Board        Director of Education

Filed Under: NNDSB Featured

Board Highlights – Sept. 13, 2022 meeting

September 19, 2022 By Deb

Monday, Sept. 19, 2022

Board Highlights – Sept. 13, 2022 meeting

The following are the highlights of the Near North District School Board (NNDSB) meeting of Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022.

Elder McQuabbie provides opening prayer

Elder Wanda McQuabbie of Henvey Inlet First Nation offered the opening prayer of Tuesday’s Board meeting, the first of the 2022-2023 school year.

In addition to being a traditional knowledge keeper, Ms. McQuabbie is an Anishinaabemowin (Ojibwe language) teacher for NNDSB at Britt Public School. She expressed her appreciation for being at the meeting. She spoke about her gratitude for the inclusive culture that lives in Near North schools and how important it is for Indigenous students to be “seen and acknowledged” in Near North schools.

Director of Education Craig Myles said he was encouraged to hear Elder McQuabbie’s comments that speak to NNDSB’s inclusive culture that acknowledges and honours the voices of Indigenous students and works to share those voices with all students and staff.

Student Trustees sworn in for second term

NNDSB’s two student trustees were sworn in at Tuesday’s meeting as they committed to serving a second term at the Board table.

Cecilia Darling, a Grade 12 student at Almaguin Highlands Secondary School, swore her oath as the Student Trustee. Later in the meeting, she gave her report, which included an extensive list of back-to-school activities and fundraisers taking place in the first two weeks of school.

Indigenous Student Trustee Allen Lewis Trodd is also returning for a second term with the Board. The Grade 12 student at Parry Sound High School swore an oath at the beginning of the meeting, and later gave his report about the latest meeting status of the Indigenous Youth Circle. The group is scheduled to meet next at Almaguin Highlands Secondary School.

Board sets 2022-2023 meeting schedule

The Board received the 2022-2023 meeting schedule. Trustees meet on the second Tuesday of the month from September through June. The next meeting will be Tuesday, Oct. 11, the last one before the municipal election Monday, Oct. 24.

The inaugural meeting of the new Board of Trustees will be held Nov. 15.

Largest number of students attended summer school

Superintendent of Teaching and Learning Melanie Gray provided a report to the Board that outlined the very successful summer learning program offered by NNDSB.

More than 60 staff were hired to provide education to 576 students from NNDSB and across the province. The summer learning program theme was celebrate, experience, plan, which allowed students to celebrate their prior learning, experience new opportunities and plan for their futures.

The number of students was greater than last year, with the largest increase (220 per cent) in co-operative education.

Among the experiences provided through the power learning program (literacy focus for students in Grades 1-4 and math focus for students in Grades 5-8) were: books donated though Nipissing University’s Books for Brook initiative; guests from the Friendship Centre who shared Indigenous teachings and traditions; staff from fire departments and construction-related fields speaking about their careers; and Science North scientists participating in Ask a Scientist sessions. All camps incorporated outdoor play and promoted positive social interaction.

With funding support from the NNDSB Board of Trustees, NNDSB also launched its first Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) camp this summer. The three-week camp for students in Grades 7-10 involved hands-on problem-solving while working on foundational literacy and numeracy skills. The students interacted with 3D printers, drones, coding and robotics.

COVID-19 management discussed

The Board was updated on how COVID-19 is being managed by NNDSB in schools.

The board is following the guidance of the Ministry of Education, and no additional local measures have been put into place by the Nipissing Parry Sound District Health Unit at the start of the 2022-2023 school year.

All staff, students and visitors are encouraged to self-screen daily before attending school. Masks are not required and will be provided at school for students staff and visitors who choose to wear them.

Schools are permitted to run clubs, activities, sports teams, bands and other extracurricular activities. Field trips will also be permitted, and schools will be available for community use.

Safe schools report presented to Board

Following several violent incidents in the United States last year, Vice-Chair John Cochrane requested a report that outlined the initiatives that keep NNDSB students and staff safe.

A report was provided that outlines the three pillars of the safe schools framework (citizenship and community, conflict resolution, and bullying awareness) and the initiatives that fall under each of the pillars.

The report outlined the board’s partnerships, initiative and pilot projects that all work in tandem to help provide inclusive, welcoming places for NNDSB students to learn. A media release has been issued on the report.

“This is just another example of how the work of the multi-year strategic plan all focuses on student achievement and well-being,” said Director Myles. “Our team and our partners all work together to educate staff and students to help keep them safe.”

Report from the Director of Education

Myles had a lengthy report to the Board.

He thanked executive council and staff for their efforts in getting the board’s facilities prepared for the start of a new school year, taking place predominantly in-person. He noted that NNDSB staff have built momentum as they work towards the four priorities of the multi-year strategic plan (MYSP) – excellence in communication, excellence in teaching and learning, excellence in relationships and excellence in innovation.

Myles also reviewed the leadership framework that will manage succession planning and retention strategies that will continue to build leadership capacity in the board. The framework provides current leaders enrichment opportunities and future leaders a foundation built upon learning and collaboration.

As part of his monthly report, Myles will be sharing data that illustrates the work being done in the strategic priority areas. This month, growth in excellence in innovation was shown by noting that NNDSB has exceeded its planned participation rate in the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) by 16 per cent. Seven per cent of NNDSB’s Grade 11 and 12 students participate in the program, where the provincial average is 4.3 per cent.  In excellence in relationships, the Director reported that 100 per cent of the 24 personal support worker (PSW) grads who are NNDSB’s first cohort have been hired, answering a critical community need. The administrator of one of the training sites, Belvedere Heights, spoke highly of the living classroom model for educating the students. Courses are running in Parry Sound, North Bay and now Mattawa, and intake is underway for the next PSW course starting in February 2023.

Trustees, senior staff attend sharing circle

Both Myles and Chair Jay Aspin noted in their remarks their gratitude to attend the sharing circle hosted by Wasauksing First Nation. The sharing circle supports nurturing relationships following the damage of the Shaptotaun at Parry Sound High School this spring.

Aspin said he found the sharing circle “really moving” and was proud of the work of First Nations Trustee Nichole King to bring the board together with First Nations rightsholders to continue building relationships. These sentiments were echoed by Myles.

“Participating in the sharing circle gave us the opportunity to reflect on the importance of relationships to Indigenous Peoples and how we can continue to take action keeping  spaces safe and welcoming for youth and their communities.”

First Nations Trustee King said, “Our Board has a responsibility to our students to provide an inclusive and safe learning environment. Working together with our communities and bringing their voices forward will elevate the programs and services we can offer to First Nations students. We can do better, and this circle was a good start. I see the dedication of Board leadership in strengthening relations with our First Nations communities and I hope these relationships continue to strengthen moving forward.”

Trustees agree to adhere to Code of Conduct

As part of its commitment to good governance, a governance manual and code of conduct for trustees was developed in 2020. Annually, trustees must review the documents and agree to adhere to the code of conduct. Trustees did this at Tuesday’s meeting.

Trustees also voted to approve the development of governance policies regarding student trustees and trustee social media etiquette. Drafts are currently posted on the board’s website for public consultation.

-30-

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.

For more information, please contact:
Deb Bartlett (she/her)
Communications Officer
Near North District School Board
P. (705) 472-8170 ext. 5010
E. Deb.Bartlett@nearnorthschools.ca

Filed Under: Media Releases, News and Announcements, NNDSB Featured, NNDSB Shared News

  • « Previous Page
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • …
  • 12
  • Next Page »
NNDSB Indigenous Education Logo

Biindigen

Mii gwi Anishinabek wewena nkenmaaminak dependajig maa kiing.
"We acknowledge in a good way, the original people of the land here"
We value the cultures, histories and relationships with the Indigenous Peoples of Turtle Island (North America)

Connect With Us

Near North District School Board
963 Airport Road, P.O. Box 3110, North Bay, ON P1B 8H1
[P] 705-472-8170   [TF] 1-800-278-4922   [F] 705-472-9927
MENUMENU
  • Contact Us
  • Find Your School
  • Parent Portal
  • ​Accessibility Standards

Login with IDP
Copyright © 2023 · Near North District School Board