Near North District School Board

Letter to Families: All NNDSB Schools to Return to in-class Learning

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Feb. 3, 2021

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Education Minister Stephen Lecce announced today more schools are set to resume in-class learning.

Beginning Feb. 8, MacTier Public School will resume in-class learning, which means all Near North District School Board (NNDSB) schools will now be open for in-class learning.

Please continue to monitor NNDSB’s website nearnorthschools.ca for updates and follow our Facebook and Twitter accounts. We will continue to share accurate and timely information, Ministry correspondence, and resources with you as they become available. As always, if you have any questions, please reach out to your child’s school.

Additional resource material, including learning, mental health, and supports, can also be found on our website.

Stay well.

Sincerely,

Craig Myles

Director of Education

Letter to Families: Change To Student Immunization Records Process

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Feb. 3, 2021

Dear Parents and Guardians,

This letter is to inform you about a change to the process this year regarding students’ immunization records.

Typically, families are notified of out-dated mandatory immunizations and given a timeframe in which to receive the immunization, or update records with the health unit. At the end of that timeframe, the board receives notice from the health unit regarding which students are to be placed on suspension under the Immunization of School Pupils Act.

This year, the medical officer of health for the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit, Dr. Jim Chirico, has lifted the suspension component. No suspension letters will be issued this year to those who have not provided updated records. This decision was based on a number of factors, including students who are learning remotely, doctor availability, and logistical concerns caused by the pandemic.

The same process is in place in the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit, which affects students attending MacTier Public School.

Families are still responsible for immunizing their children. When immunizations are given, parents and guardians should ensure the information is faxed from their doctor’s office to the health unit, so the student’s record is updated.

Please note, this is a temporary measure only that affects the deadline of updating information, not the necessity of immunization. For the school year 2021-2022 families will have to update their records.

More information about vaccination programs can be found here.

Sincerely,

Near North District School Board

Letter to Secondary Families: Secondary Students COVID-19 Self-Screening

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Feb. 2, 2021

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Beginning Feb. 10, all secondary students (Grade 9-12) will be required to confirm that they have completed a COVID-19 self-screening as part of the attendance process. A link has been placed on all our secondary school websites and on our Near North DSB website. Secondary school students will access this link to complete their self-screening.

If students do not pass the COVID-19 self-screening they should remain at home. Homeroom teachers will confirm with students that their self-screening has been completed.

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

Near North District School Board

Virtual Canadore College Presentation Gives Students Insight into their Future

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NNDSB Note: The following story was written by Emma Dupuis, an F.J. McElligott Secondary School student.

By Emma Dupuis

F.J. McElligott Secondary School recently participated in the Motive Power: Universal Skills Initiative. This project is designed to inspire young women to view apprenticeship as a viable pathway and to explore several skilled trades in the motive power sector including Automotive Service Technician and Truck & Coach Technician.Student learning

This virtual workshop was hosted by Canadore College and funded by School College Work Initiative (SCWI) and the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP).

The event was broken into two parts. The first part of the day ran remotely by Randy Hall, a Canadore College motive power instructor, involved students working with callipers to measure engine components, measure spark plug gaps, and use tire pressure gauges.

“The day was very informative about the college. I enjoyed getting to measure the bore cylinder and not just watching a demonstration,” exclaimed Grade 11 student Bryn Davis.

When asked about why this day was important Mr. Hall said, “Many trades have been male-dominated and now changes in different trades, especially motive power, have opened up many more avenues that young women may find appealing.” He added, “Employers are also doing their part by making accessibility pathways easier for young ladies. It’s important to remember that it was the amazing female workforce during the First World War and Second World War that built all types of equipment, from tanks to planes to support our troops.”

Student learning The second part of the day involved a Zoom meeting in which students had the opportunity to attend a virtual tour of Canadore College hosted by either Ric Potvin or Darryl Oliver.

“I really enjoyed having the opportunity to get a virtual tour of the college. The best part was getting to look at engines and spark plugs,” said Brooke Dumont, a Grade 11 student.

Fellow student, Emilio Lavoie stated, “The presentation was really helpful in looking at different programs Canadore offers, how a typical course ran and what types of jobs we might want to pursue in the future. I thought it was very interesting how practical the course layouts are along with the variety of resources Canadore had to help everyone reach their full potential.” He added, “I enjoyed learning about the different types of engines as it helped me understand if mechanics was something I was passionate about.”

Each student received a “grab bag” organized by the Canadore College Recruitment Team containing a toque, tire pressure gauge, a spark plug gap measuring tool along with information about Canadore.Student learning

Students enjoyed the educational opportunity and learned potential pathways after secondary school. “It was cool to have a virtual tour of the Canadore campus and learn about the different apprenticeship programs the college has to offer. Overall, the entire presentation was really educational,” said Nicky Botham.

This event was an excellent way to engage students in the world of the trades and help them better understand the options available for their post-secondary careers.

“It was great that girls were given this experience,” exclaimed student Shannon Wall.

We want to hear from you! Check out the proposed 2021-2022 school year calendar

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**Consultation period is now over. Thank you to everyone who provided feedback on the 2021-22 school year calendar**
At this time each year, a committee of representatives from the four school boards in our region work together to consult with their respective school communities to establish the upcoming school year calendar.
The following elements are required in every school year calendar:
  • 194 mandatory instructional days;
  • Maximum of seven (7) Professional Activity Days (PA Days);
  • Maximum of ten (10) examination days (for secondary schools).
Student learning, success and well-being are integral considerations for boards in their decision-making.  All four local school boards are mindful of the broad-reaching impact the placement of the school year calendar can have on students, parents, staff and volunteers.  Consequently, we invite parents, staff and members of the community to provide feedback on the placement of the Board Holiday and Christmas Break for the 2021-22 school year between January 26 and February 2, 2021.

Responses to the consultation will be collected and taken into consideration in developing the final version of the calendar which will be presented to each school board and shared with the Ministry of Education for approval by March 1, 2021.Thank you for taking the time to provide your input on the upcoming 2021-22 School Year Calendar.  Your feedback is greatly valued and appreciated.

Appointment of Interim Executive Officer will help staff transition during search, hiring of new superintendent

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The Near North District School Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Wally Easton to the role of Interim Executive Officer to assist the board and staff during the transition to retirement of Superintendent of Business, Liz Therrien. Mr. Easton’s appointment is effective Feb. 1, 2021.

NNDSB staff and some of the board’s stakeholder groups have been notified that effective March 1, 2021, Mr. Easton will transition into an Acting Senior Business Official (SBO) role while the board recruits a permanent replacement. Mr. Easton will assume all of the reporting relationships and duties assigned to SBO Therrien to ensure the continued effectiveness of business within our board and school community. Additionally, he will support the board with the executive search and mentor the permanent successor to ensure they are well-settled.

Mr. Easton has an extensive knowledge of NNDSB through his role as a Special Advisor to the Minister of Education. His broad experience and expertise are valued assets that will benefit the board as it solidifies its Multi Year Strategic Plan, and its focusses on strong fiscal management, growing positive relationships and innovative learning.

In addition to his work as a Special Advisor, Mr. Easton has served as a policy analyst with the Ontario Catholic School Trustees’ Association from 2012 to 2018 and was responsible for the analysis of various financial, business and labour matters related to education. Prior to that, he was the Associate Director, Corporate Services and Treasurer for the Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board.

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Information about Near North District School Board:
Near North District School Board is an English-language public school board serving the North Bay – Parry Sound – Nipissing area. The Board consists of approximately 10,000 students in 27 elementary schools, seven secondary/senior schools and various alternative learning centres. For more information, please visit nearnorthschools.ca and follow Near North District School Board on social media.

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

Letter to Families – Jan. 21

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Jan. 21, 2021

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The purpose of this letter is to provide you with additional information with regards to the Ontario government’s Jan. 20 announcement.

Several school boards will be welcoming students back to in-class learning on Jan. 25. There is no change for Near North District School Board (NNDSB) schools.

As per health unit jurisdictions, MacTier Public School will remain closed and students will continue learning virtually until Feb. 10. All other NNDSB schools continue to be open for in-person learning.

Please continue to monitor NNDSB’s website nearnorthschools.ca for updates and follow our Facebook and Twitter accounts. We will continue to share accurate and timely information, Ministry correspondence, and resources with you as they become available. As always, if you have any questions, please reach out to your child’s school.

Additional resource material, including learning, mental health, and supports, can also be found on our website.

Stay well.

Sincerely,

Craig Myles

Director of Education

NNDSB Secondary Schools Adapt with Virtual Open Houses

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Secondary schools within Near North District School Board (NNDSB) have found new ways to host information open houses.

Historically, open houses for prospective students entering secondary school grade 7-12 would be held in person.

As the pandemic continues and best practice keeps people social distancing, secondary school information open houses are being held virtually. Information sessions are important for students and families to have a smooth transition, ease the nerves, and learn about programming options before starting secondary school.

NNDSB has six secondary schools across communities in Parry Sound, North Bay, Mattawa, Sturgeon Falls and South River. One of two secondary schools in North Bay, Chippewa Secondary School, kicked-off the first open house on Jan. 19.

With 168 families attending the virtual session, it was right in line with in person numbers that would have occurred in years prior. Principal Julie Beaudoin stated families were engaged, came prepared with excellent questions, and staff were very impressed with the turnout.

The virtual open houses support families in remaining safe and following COVID-19 restrictions and allow students and families to attend from the comfort of their own homes, with no need to arrange schedules and or transportation to an in-person event.

“We were so pleased to see close to 70 families attend our virtual “Excelleraider” and International Baccalaureate (IB) session. The small group sessions allowed for a more personalized approach, speaking to both specific and holistic questions regarding the program and its benefits to students,” said Kim Larivee, coordinator and team lead for Chippewa’s IB program.

“The student services presentations were very well attended, especially since it was our first time delivering virtually. We enjoyed the small group setting and the ability for parents to ask questions casually. Our technology ran very smoothly and we were able to share our screen for participants very easily in order to demonstrate the course selection process,” said Colleen Point, Chippewa’s team lead for student services.

“We were ever so grateful to have our parents join us for our virtual evening. It was the first of its kind! We look forward to working closely with your student as they continue in their academic journey! See you in September,” exclaimed principal Beaudoin.

For up-to-date information regarding upcoming open house sessions at NNDSB secondary schools, visit nearnorthschools.ca.

Media Contact:

Josh Casey
Information/Communication Coordinator
Near North District School Board
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5083
E. Josh.Casey@nearnorthschools.ca

 

Friendly Reminder to Families Regarding COVID-19 Guidelines

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January 15, 2021

Dear Parents and Guardians,

NNDSB wants to send a friendly reminder to everyone in our school communities about COVID-19 guidelines to be followed while under Ontario’s declared state of emergency.

Guidelines for expectations while on NNDSB property can be found here.

While off school property, outside of instructional hours, provincial restrictions are in place.

Of significance to our staff and students is the requirement to wear masks and that up to five people may gather outdoors if physical distancing of two metres can be maintained.

Thank you.

Near North District School Board

NNDSB Enhances Technology Support for Students with Learning Disabilities

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An NNDSB student and teacher engaged in a virtual coaching session with LEARNstyle to support the use of SEA technology in the classroom.
An NNDSB student and teacher engaged in a virtual coaching session with LEARNstyle to support the use of SEA technology in the classroom.

Students of Near North District School Board (NNDSB) who use assistive technology devices are able to benefit from a unique opportunity this school year.

In the fall of 2020, NNDSB launched a new training initiative to provide targeted individualized coaching support on their assistive technology devices for students with a learning disability.

NNDSB has entered into a partnership with LEARNStyle, Ontario’s largest provider of coaching services for students with learning disabilities. LEARNStyle has more than 20 years’ experience providing coaching support for school boards, families, the Learning Disabilities Association of Ontario and the Canadian National Institute for the Blind.

Five hours of virtual coaching sessions are provided to students with a consistent LEARNStyle coach using individual, needs-based strategies activated by assistive technology to foster independence.

Although students have increasing access to technology, they sometimes struggle to use it well for learning purposes and this program is designed to integrate technology through proven learning strategies.

Since launching this program on Sept. 25, 2020, 54 students have been registered and more than 65 coaching sessions have been completed with positive results.

Students are reporting the strategies they are learning have improved their writing and research assignments. One student said the strategies he has learned have benefited his ability to feel more comfortable participating in class, become a better writer, and use a computer more efficiently.

Parents and teachers are also invited to coaching sessions, in order to continue the support for students.

Assistive technology can change the trajectory of students’ lives when supported by appropriate strategies to foster independence and that is the focus of this program.

The program is supporting students learning in-person and at-home, ensuring that NNDSB students are well supported.

For students to qualify for coaching and training on their assigned device, they must meet the Specialized Equipment Amount (SEA) Equipment criteria. If parents would like to join their child for their coaching session, this can be expressed on the informed consent form. In turn, they will be able to join the virtual coaching session on the Microsoft TEAMS platform.

Information about Near North District School Board:

Near North District School Board is an English-language public school board serving the North Bay – Parry Sound – Nipissing area. The Board consists of approximately 10,000 students in 27 elementary schools, seven secondary/senior schools and various alternative learning centres. For more information, please visit nearnorthschools.ca and follow Near North District School Board on social media.

For more information, please contact:

Josh Casey
Information/Communications Coordinator
Near North District School Board
P. (705) 472-8170, extension 5083
E. Josh.Casey@nearnorthschools.ca

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