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April Letter to Families

April 4, 2025 By Brett

Friday, April 4, 2025

Dear Parents and Guardians,

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

*

Today is a professional activity (PA) day. As required by the Ministry of Education, notice of the activities taking place must be posted by school boards.

At NNDSB, this is the link to the page where PA day activities can be found. Here is the schedule for today’s PA topics.

*

School Mental Health Ontario (SMHO) is presenting a five-part webinar series for parents and caregivers focused on substance use, addictive behaviours and youth mental health.

The webinars will be hosted by parent/caregiver peer consultants from the SMHO team, and have been informed by the SMHO parent-caregiver collaboration group. The sessions will feature a short presentation by a leading expert in addictions prevention and literacy on the following topics:

  • the intersection of addictions and mental health (April 22 from 7 to 8 p.m., English language session with simultaneous French translation);
  • recognizing signs of substance use and addictive behaviours (English language session May 7 from 7 to 8 p.m., French language session May 13 from noon to 1 p.m.);
  • how to talk about substance use at home (English language session May 14 from noon to 1 p.m., French language session May 21 from noon to 1 p.m.);
  • current trends in student substance use in Ontario and what parents/caregivers need to know (May 22 from noon to 1 p.m., English language session with simultaneous French translation);
  • technology overuse and problematic gaming (dates and more information coming soon)

Parents and caregivers can register here for the sessions.

*

NNDSB secondary schools are planning open houses for prospective students and their families.

Below is a list of upcoming open houses:

West Ferris Secondary School (WFSS) will be holding a Grade 7 information night on Thursday, May 1 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Chippewa Secondary School (CSS) is planning its Grade 7 information night for May 1 from 6 to 8 p.m. More information will be available closer to the event.

*

The next meeting of the Board will be held Tuesday, April 8 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting is open to the public, and you are welcome to attend in person or join via Zoom. The link and login information can be found at the top of the Board and committee meetings page.

*

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

Sincerely,

Near North District School Board

Filed Under: Letter to Families, News and Announcements, NNDSB Featured, NNDSB Shared News

Fundraising concert supports Chippewa’s music program

April 3, 2025 By Brett

Thursday, April 3, 2025

Fundraising concert supports Chippewa’s music program

Music students at Chippewa Secondary School are getting a behind-the-scenes glimpse of what’s involved in a professional production as the school gears up for a fundraising concert by Nova Scotian singer-songwriter Dave Gunning. Gunning will be accompanied by Cape Breton fiddler and singer-songwriter Rose Morrison in a concert at the school Monday, May 26 at 7 p.m. (Doors open at 6 p.m.)

Chippewa science teacher Jamie Carruthers, via East Coaster Studios, is the driving force behind the concert. He and Gunning are friends, and he asked his friend to support the initiative. Carruthers has been bringing East Coast musicians to North Bay as part of his East Coaster Studios present series. The concert will feature current and former Chippewa music students, and proceeds will purchase hanging microphones for the auditorium, which can be used for the school’s music events and theatre productions.

Gunning has released 14 albums and was inspired by legends like Stan Rogers and Gordon Lightfoot. His music is characterized by storytelling and often highlights the lives of underdogs while addressing social and environmental issues.

He is the recipient of 10 East Coast Music Awards, two Canadian Folk Music Awards, four Music Nova Scotia Awards and a Juno nomination for his tribute to the late John Allan Cameron.

Carruthers says the concert will also be a learning opportunity for Chippewa’s music students. They will be assisting with all aspects of the show. In addition to helping with marketing, students will be acting as greeters and ticket takers. Added benefits for the students, says Carruthers, are that they “get to see seasoned professional musicians deliver a top-tier show. Students will get a behind-the-scenes look at what is involved in a professional production. It also gives them the opportunity to open for a world-class performer and perform in front of an audience. Depending on Dave’s schedule and travel time he may be able to come to the school before the concert to work with the students to help prepare for the show.”

The schedule is not yet finalized, but there will be a number or two from former Chippewa student (and now musician recording engineer) Greg Aultman, and current Chippewa students Ireland Loeffen and Maddie Berwick will perform an original song or two. There are also plans for a vocalist group to join Gunning for one of his best-known songs, These Hands, and Chippewa’s guitar ensemble is set to perform.

Carruthers adds that the sound production for the show and equipment is being handled pro bono by retired Chippewa teacher Brian Risk.

“I am hoping to make this an annual event and continue to bring in big names in the music industry,” says Carruthers. “I would love to be able to raise enough funds to upgrade the theatre sound system at Chippewa completely.”

The event will also feature a silent auction to help raise additional funds the night of the show. Anyone willing to donate items can contact Carruthers at eastcoasterstudios@gmail.com.

Tickets for the show (general admission, not reserved seating) are now available through TicketScene. East Coaster Studios’ Instagram and Facebook accounts provide more information about this concert.

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

Board Highlights March 21, 2025

March 21, 2025 By Brett

Friday, March 21, 2025

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

Director’s report highlights achievements

Director of Education Craig Myles’ report to the Board noted the achievements and activities of students from across the district.

Chippewa Secondary School (CSS) students in French language classes celebrated Mardi Gras by making Carnival masks and learning the Carnival traditions in various countries. Mapleridge Public School celebrates students who demonstrate good character with a twice-monthly acknowledgement of students who have been nominated by their teachers. Sunset Park Public School held a February food drive that collected more than 1,200 pounds of food for the North Bay Food Bank.

In athletics, NNDSB teams have been participating in several events. Chippewa hosted the AA OFSAA girls’ volleyball championships at the beginning of March. The school and board are grateful for the support of co-host Canadore College for allowing the use of the new dome and main campus gym, and to the volunteers that contributed to running a great event and banquet. West Ferris Secondary School (WFSS) co-hosted the OFSAA boys’ basketball championships, and NNDSB schools were represented at NOSSA curling tournaments.

Many Special Olympics athletes have qualified in athletics for the provincial Summer Games in Brantford this summer. Seven athletes from WFSS and one from CSS will be competing against approximately 300 athletes to qualify for the 2026 National Games in Saskatchewan.

Congratulations to educators Scot Quarrington of WFSS and Shawn Plamondon of CSS who were named recipients of this year’s OFSAA Leadership in Sport Award, which recognizes educators who have made significant contributions to youth sport through coaching and convening.

Multi-year strategic plan mid-year report presented

A mid-year report for the multi-year strategic plan (MYSP) was included in the agenda package.

Among the highlights in the MYSP pillar of excellence in teaching and learning are training for the mental health team and select system leaders, training in The Third Path, a relational approach to education and participation in a pilot project in collaboration with

School Mental Health Ontario and Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario to promote mental health and delay substance use among Grade 8 students.

This school year, NNDSB educators have indicated they are comfortable with Acadience reading assessments, which is evidenced by the increased volume of students screened. The screening tool equips teachers with information about student literacy, strengths and needs. The assessments help teachers identify children at risk for reading difficulties and determine the skills to target for instructional support.

Under the MYSP pillar of excellence in innovation, the report included information about the expansion of specialist high skills majors (SHSM) programs in the board, Grade 10 civics students invited to take part in a tour of Queen’s Park, access for NNDSB students every month to psychiatrist consultation via the Hospital for Sick Children and a grant for Indigenous language revitalization.

Highlights under the pillar of excellence in relationships include several partnerships and collaborations with organizations locally and further afield. Partnerships include support for students experiencing mental health crisis, the YMCA fill the bus campaign to support camp for kids, working with the health unit on Planet Youth for well-being projects and initiatives, a pathways fair in partnership with the Children’s Aid Society, sponsorship support of Theatre outreach on Stage (TOROS) and continued contributions from communication organizations supporting student nutrition programs.

In the area of excellence in communication, the report highlighted the addition of attendance reporting via Edsby, continued work on the board and school websites, media training for principals and vice-principals as well as communications and privacy training for NNDSB leaders.

Indigenous Student Trustee’s report

Indigenous Student Trustee Riley Trudeau reported that the Indigenous Youth Circle (IYC)  will meet in person this month at Northern Secondary School. The group plans to collaborate with Student Senate to do team building and “get to know you” activities. Topics that IYC will discuss include planning for school powwows, end-of-the-year school initiatives and the IYC’s end-of-the-year retreat, which will be held at Nipissing University.

At Northern, IYC meetings for the next few weeks were planned. Upcoming events include a rattle-making workshop, a visit with guest speaker Perry Mcleod, an employment and training program presentation by the North Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre (NBIFC), another beading workshop, discussions about Red Dress Day and The Moose Hide Campaign within the school, and powwow planning.

At Chippewa Secondary School, they recently had a quill-making workshop with Nipissing First Nation (NFN) member Lily Armstrong. They are hosting two medicine pouch-making workshops, one with secondary students and one with intermediate students, with NFN member Sam Stevens, who will also provide teachings on the four sacred medicines.

At West Ferris Secondary School, IYC members continue to hold school-based Wednesday IYC meetings and women’s hand drumming and grandfather drumming weekly. Their upcoming events include a medicine bag, moccasin-making and mitten-making workshops with NBIFC and a beaded earring workshop with Karla Byers. Students will begin accessing tutoring, within their Indigenous Centre, through the Office of Indigenous Initiatives at Nipissing University.

At Almaguin Highlands Secondary School, students obtained additional copies of the Ted Nolan book, Life In Two Worlds, and organized a beading workshop. Almaguin continues to do its best to recruit more members. They are also interested in the NBIFC language conference happening in March and are planning to meet weekly to discuss plans for the rest of the school year.

Parry Sound High School held a Grade 8 info night with a silent auction for 7 grandfather teachings swag and proceeds go towards Indigenous youth-led and community initiatives. They also have weekly lunches with First Nation communities.

IYC hopes to create a place for the community to go to learn about the youth group and would like to complete its page on the NNDSB website. They are also working with the Indigenous education team, as they are supporting IYC in its efforts to get an Edsby page up and running again.

NNDSB schools have four powwow dates that have been chosen for four of the secondary schools, IYC members will be supporting the planning for each event.

Student Trustee’s report

Student Trustee Nanak Sidhu reported that several school teams have been successful in OFSAA competitions, including events that have been held at NNDSB schools.

Events that have been celebrated at area schools include a winter carnival at F.J. McElligott Secondary School, Pink Shirt Day to promote anti-bullying and pancake breakfasts.

Trustees vote to keep McDougall open one more  School year

Trustees of Near North District School Board (NNDSB) voted at the March 18 meeting to keep McDougall Public School open for one more year.

For more information, see this media release.

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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.

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

Trustees vote to keep McDougall Public School open for a year

March 20, 2025 By Brett

Thursday, March 20, 2025

Trustees of Near North District School Board (NNDSB) voted at the March 18 meeting to keep McDougall Public School open for one more year.

The school was included in an accommodation review committee (ARC) decision that would see the closure of McDougall and Nobel Public Schools, the demolition of Parry Sound High School and the construction of a new JK-12 school at the site of Parry Sound High School. The new school is set to open in September 2025.

The decision will keep McDougall Public School open for another year.

In a recorded vote, Trustees Chantal Phillips, Louise Sargent, Jeanie Fuscaldo, Howard Wesley, Shane Hall, Julie Bertram and Ashley St. Pierre voted in favour of the motion, while Trustees Bill Steer and Caren Gagne voted against it.

Board Chair Ashley St. Pierre said, “Thank you to all that sent letters to our Board and the MPP’s office, expressing the concerns and support to keep McDougall Public School operational. Our Board heard your voices, and we listened. This is in the best interests for student achievement and well-being, which is our top priority.”

Following the meeting, Vice-Chair Howard Wesley, who chaired the meeting, said, “Thank you to the staff, municipal leaders, our Member of Provincial Parliament Graydon Smith, and the community members for your continued dedication and overwhelming support for the students of McDougall and Nobel Elementary Schools.”

For more information see this board report and this letter.

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

Alliance families become digital detectives, learn online safety

March 17, 2025 By Brett

Monday, March 17, 2025

Alliance families become digital detectives, learn online safety

Students and families of Alliance Public School recently had the opportunity to become digital detectives, thanks to a unique event presented by Science North.

Students in Grades 1 through 6 learned about essential skills of online safety, spotting misinformation and disinformation and understanding artificial intelligence (AI) while solving fun, interactive puzzles, gathering clues and cracking mysteries.

Parents also had a chance to get in on the fun during an evening parent engagement event, which saw approximately 75 people in attendance.

Alliance Principal Kyla Kadlec said the primary goal of the evening event, which was planned and coordinated by the Chair of the Alliance school advisory committee, Stephanie Bergman, was to foster stronger connections among families within the school community.

“The event aims to create opportunities for parents and children to bond, share experiences, and build lasting relationships by bringing families together in a relaxed and engaging environment,” Kadlec said. “This sense of community is essential for creating a supportive and inclusive school environment.

“Another key objective is to boost parent engagement in their children’s education. The event offers a platform for parents to connect with staff and other parents, gaining insights into the school’s programs and initiatives,” Kadlec said. “Engaged parents are more likely to participate in their children’s academic journey, which can result in better educational outcomes and a more collaborative school community.”

Students and families tested their visual skills by identifying the AI image in a collection of pictures. They were encouraged to look for the clues that help distinguish what is real and what is impossible. They also learned about digital footprints and explored how personal details can be collected, who has access to them and how to protect your privacy online. Attendees explored how AI can assist in creative processes and the challenges it brings such as errors, originality and ethics.

Science North ‘Blue Coat’ presenters Emily Walker and Charlie Leclaire, who created the Digital Detectives program, have been travelling to schools across Ontario every week since October.

“It’s all about teaching children to be cautious of the things they see and what they do online,” Walker said. “It helps them be a little bit more confident online, especially in this dangerous world with AI all over the place.”

Principal Kadlec said families were appreciative that the school takes the time to organize events such as this to bring families and students together. “They enjoyed the evening and had fun learning alongside their children. They found the activities interesting; parents supported their child’s curiosity and willingness to solve the problem tasks laid out by Science North. Students enjoyed their time, were very engaged and loved the snacks and treats too.”

Alliance student Braelynn loved the presentation and activities.

“It was so much fun. Now I thought of a new password for my phone and stuff. I didn’t know that AI goes on the internet and searches all this stuff, and takes the information and gives it to you. I’m going to be more safe on the internet now,” Braelynn said.

Fellow student Easton agreed. “It was really fun. I really liked how you had to figure out what is AI-generated and what’s not.” Easton said. “I’m probably going to be more safe online now and stay away from AI for now”

Learning about technology, digital safety, and AI continues at Alliance outside of the Science North event.

“Digital literacy is essential to the 21st-century learner. Using modern tools such as laptops, the internet, and AI effectively accelerates and facilitates learning. In class, we discuss the importance of using these tools responsibly and ethically,” Grade 5/6 teacher Zachary St-Louis said. “The next generation of students must be comfortable using AI tools and websites while citing and attributing credit to appropriate sources. These tools are accessible to all learners, and when used wisely, are powerful and meaningful ways to enhance learning at school and beyond.”

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

March Letter to Families

March 7, 2025 By Brett

Friday, March 7, 2025

Dear Parents and Guardians,

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

*

EQAO is offering a free live webinar in which EQAO staff will discuss math questions that Ontario students encounter when they participate in Ontario’s large-scale assessments. These assessments are taken by all Ontario students in Grades 3, 6 and 9.

During the webinar, EQAO staff will show how these math questions help assess the skills students are learning in their math classes. Staff will also share valuable insights from the past three years of assessment results, which can help parents and guardians support their children’s math learning.

This webinar is scheduled for Wednesday, March 26 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. You can register here.

*

The Ontario Coalition for Children and Youth Mental Health is seeking parents and caregivers to be part of a focus group.

Last spring, the group asked for ideas for resources to help parents and caregivers support their children’s mental health. Based on feedback, several resources were created, which are available at the Family Care Centre and By Your Side.

The coalition is seeking parents and caregivers who have used two or more of the resources. Sessions are being held Monday, March 10 from 4 to 5 p.m., Tuesday, March 11 from noon to 1 p.m. or 4 to 5 p.m., Monday, March 17 from 4 to 5 p.m. in French, and Tuesday, March 18 from noon to 1 p.m.

Email coalitionsurvey@opsba.org if you are interested in participating.

*

Many NNDSB secondary schools are planning open houses for prospective students and their families.

Below is a list of upcoming open houses:

West Ferris Secondary School (WFSS) will be holding a Grade 7 information night on Thursday, May 1 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Chippewa Secondary School (CSS) is planning its Grade 7 information night for May 1 from 6 to 8 p.m. More information will be available closer to the event.

*

We hope everyone has a wonderful March Break. The break begins today, and we will welcome everyone back to school on Monday, March 17.

*

The next meeting of the Board will be held Tuesday, March 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. The link and log in information can be found at the top of the Board and committee meetings page.

*

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

Sincerely,

Near North District School Board

Filed Under: Letter to Families, Media Releases, NNDSB Featured, NNDSB Shared News

Board Highlights February 14, 2025

February 14, 2025 By Brett

Friday, Feb. 14, 2025

The following are the highlights of the Near North District School Board (NNDSB) meeting of Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2025.

Director’s report highlights achievements

Director of Education Craig Myles’ report to the Board noted that 100 per cent of NNDSB students in Grades K-2 have been screened for reading difficulties. Secondary exams are complete, marking the beginning of Semester 2. Myles wished everyone a happy Family Day and encouraged people to spend the day outdoors enjoying a winter day in the north.

Myles reported that schools across NNDSB marked Bell Let’s Talk Day on Jan. 22. The day highlights the importance of mental health and removing stigma. The board’s HR department and mental health team were acknowledged for supporting student and staff mental wellness.

Several schools have been showcasing talent by staging artistic productions. F.J. McElligott held a Magical Mystical Night showcasing the talents of magicians and musicians, Parry Sound High School’s senior drama class staged Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, and Land of Lakes Public School held a Winter Music Showcase.

Arwyn Hicks, a Grade 12 International Baccalaureate and French Immersion student at Chippewa Secondary School, will be in Toronto on Feb. 20-22 to compete as a finalist for the Loran Scholarship, a $100,000 award given to 36 deserving students from across Canada. Offered in partnership with 25 Canadian universities, the Loran is a prestigious award. Arwyn is one of more than 6,000 applicants and one of 90 who have made it to the final interview.

Math Achievement Plan progress report

Assistant Superintendent and Math Lead Kim Pauli submitted a math achievement action plan progress update for review by the Board. The report highlighted that the action plan aligns with three key priority actions that have been identified by the Ministry of Education.

The math team will be holding a virtual math information session for parents and caregivers of students in Grades 7 to 12 on Wednesday, Feb. 19 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. A registration link can be found here.

Indigenous Student Trustee’s report

Indigenous Student Trustee Riley Trudeau reported that the Indigenous Youth Circle (IYC) plans to meet virtually on Feb. 12. IYC has chosen to do school updates in a more organized form via OneNote to ensure students and grad coaches have a place to share updates and ideas. This also enables the team to look back at its goals and what has been done and talked about. This will be helpful to future Indigenous Student Trustees.

Northern IYC had a medicine bag workshop and ribbon skirt and shirt workshops at the North Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre (NBIFC). Upcoming plans include a rattle-making workshop, beginning and ladies’ drum group, IYC recruitment and activities, pow wow planning, and planning an education piece to present to White Woods students about the upcoming pow wow.

West Ferris IYC have been meeting Wednesdays for their school-based meetings. They continue to have other weekly events, including women’s hand drumming and men’s grandfather drumming. West Ferris IYC has also completed a rattle-making workshop, and plans are being made to host medicine bag and moccasin workshops with NBIFC. They are also making plans for ribbon skirt making.

F.J. McElligott IYC plans to have a winter festival where they plan on teaching Indigenous games and culture, including how to make bannock. They will have an outdoor education class this semester which would include medicine walks.

Members of Chippewa IYC (also known as Okimakan) hosted a potluck in their centre before the winter break and will focus on recruitment in the coming months. Okimakan meets every Thursday at lunch. They plan on having a moccasin and ribbon skirt-making workshop with NBIFC. They also plan on starting a grandfather drumming group. Chippewa students are hopeful about getting their teepee up so they can take learning outdoors.

Parry Sound students attended language camp at Spirit Point with the Georgian Bay Anishinaabek Youth (an Indigenous youth-led initiative). Rattle making, facilitated by Connor Lafortune from School Mental Health Ontario, with Grades 8 and 9 students, was a major success. They plan to have a workshop for butchering wild game at the school in the spring.

During this upcoming month, Almaguin Highlands IYC plans to have a beading workshop and a potluck for their members. They are including an Indigenous station at their winter carnival, where they want to offer a snowshoeing excursion. They plan on teaching one Ojibwe word every day for the month of March as a symbol for Indigenous language day. They also plan on taking part in sap collection on the school property, doing a Red Dress Day event for MMIW and Moose Hide Campaign.

IYC hopes to open new pathways for communication for students, parents and staff. IYC is hoping to create a page that uses newer platforms. We also hope to get our page on the

NNDSB website updated as well as our Edsby page up and running within the next month.

Student Trustee’s report

Student Trustee Nanak Sidhu reported that the past month has been busy, with the semester wrapping up, final projects being completed and students preparing for exams.

Sports teams have been in full swing, with girls’ volleyball wrapping up the regular season and boys’ basketball continuing. Badminton season has kicked off, and Nordic skiing wrapped up with strong participation from students across the board at Nipissing District Athletics (NDA).

Spirit-building activities have been organized, including Anything But a Backpack Day and Pajama Day.

Student Senate has been hard at work. The group has updated its constitution, ensuring it reflects the goals and values. Senate is also preparing for elections. The big focus is finding new ways to inspire students to take leadership roles. Senate is also making progress on planning a board-wide spirit event to bring students together and build a stronger sense of community.

Sidhu reported that he hosted the OSTA-AECO Leadership meeting on Feb. 1, and from Feb. 13-16, he’ll be attending and hosting the Education Action Conference. He says the conferences are a highlight for him because they provide the opportunity to connect with other student trustees, share ideas and develop new strategies for advocacy.

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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.

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

February Letter to Families

February 7, 2025 By Brett

Friday, Feb. 7, 2025

Dear Parents and Guardians,

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

*

We are excited to announce that kindergarten registration is now open at all of our schools for the upcoming academic year. Families can choose from our engaging English programming or our exceptional French Immersion programming, designed to provide young learners with a strong foundation for their educational journey.

Parents and guardians can register their child for kindergarten by calling their local school directly or by completing the online registration form available at this link.

Early registration ensures families have access to essential information about kindergarten readiness and programming options. NNDSB is committed to creating inclusive and supportive learning environments where every child can thrive.

We look forward to welcoming your child to one of our schools and beginning this exciting journey of learning together.

*

The NNDSB math team is hosting a math night for parents/caregivers of Grade 7-12 students. The event will include information about TVO Mathify (a free online tutoring support), an overview of secondary math courses and pathways, sharing of virtual resources and tools for students and information about the Grade 9 EQAO math assessment.

The event will be held over Microsoft Teams on Wednesday, Feb. 19 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Here is the registration link.

*

School Mental Health Ontario (SMHO) launched a new parent/caregiver learning hub called By Your Side, designed to meet the needs of Ontario’s families.

The resource was created by Ontario parents/caregivers and school mental health professionals and includes information and supports in many formats, including web content, PDFs and videos to make sure families can easily access information and strategies that promote mental health and well-being at home.

Key topics include understanding mental health, promoting mental health at home, supporting mental health at school, stress and anxiety management, substance use prevention, navigating digital technology use and reaching out for help.

*

Nominations are now open for the 2025 OTIP Teaching Awards. Presented by the Ontario Teachers Insurance Plan (OTIP) and the Ontario Teacher’s Federation (OTF), the awards recognize the excellence of teachers in publicly funded education.

There are three categories of awards: elementary teacher, secondary teacher and beginning teacher (in the first five years of teaching). Teachers may be nominated by professional colleagues, students, parents or the public.

The deadline for nominations is March 31, 2025.

*

Many NNDSB secondary schools are planning open houses for prospective students and their families.

Below is a list of upcoming open houses:

West Ferris Secondary School (WFSS) is advising students that specialized program applications are open until Feb. 14, 2025. In addition to its full slate of course offerings, WFSS has several specialized programs, including STEAM, Arts Nipissing, Near North Sports, Extended French and French Immersion.

These programs are available to students across North Bay, with busing available. Here are the programs with application information hyperlinked: STEAM; Arts Nipissing; Near North Sports; Extended French/French Immersion.

There will also be a Grade 7 information night being held Thursday, May 1 from 6 to 8 p.m.

F.J. McElligott will be hosting an information night/dinner event for Grade 6 and Grade 8 students and their parents on March 4, 2025, beginning at 6 p.m. (the snow date will be March 5). This information night will be an opportunity to see the school, hear about the programs offered at F.J. McElligott at both the intermediate and secondary levels, and enjoy a dinner that will be prepared by the Grade 6 and Grade 8 students earlier that day, as part of a transition day activity. Families are asked to call the school at 705-472-5720 to RSVP for the dinner.

Chippewa Secondary School (CSS) is planning its Grade 7 information night for May 1 from 6 to 8 p.m. More information will be available closer to the event.

*

A reminder that Monday, Feb. 17 is the Family Day statutory holiday. All schools and the board office will be closed. We hope you enjoy the long weekend, and we will welcome students back to school on Tuesday, Feb. 18.

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The next meeting of the Board will be held Tuesday, Feb. 11 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting is open to the public, and you are welcome to attend in person or join via Zoom. The link and login information can be found at the top of the Board and committee meetings page.

*

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

 

Sincerely,

Near North District School Board

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

Board Highlights January 17, 2025

January 17, 2025 By Brett

The following are the highlights of the Near North District School Board (NNDSB) meeting of Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025.

Director acknowledges library team’s provincial award

Director of Education Craig Myles welcomed the Board to the first meeting after the winter break.

Among the items in his report was congratulations to NNDSB Library Services, which won the Ontario School Library Professional of the Year Award. While this award is typically awarded to an individual, the president of the Ontario School Library Associations said she and other council members have been so impressed by the work done by NNDSB library services, that they wanted to make an exception and requested that the entire team be nominated for the award. The NNDSB team won unanimously, and will be presented with its award in Toronto on Jan. 30. The team will also be featured in the spring issue of the Teaching Librarian. Read more in this media release.

The Director acknowledged NNDSB Student Trustee Nanak Sidhu, who recently met with Education Minister Jill Dunlop and was leading the charge to advocate for Indigenous Student Trustees on all boards. Myles noted that NNDSB is proud of Sidhu’s representation for ensuring the voices of Indigenous students are heard.

Chippewa Secondary School’s International Baccalaureate (IB) program was acknowledged in the Director’s report. The program has recently completed its five-year evaluation, reaffirming its commitment to providing IB education. Learn more in this media release.

The Indigenous Youth Circle, in partnership with the North Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre and the Anishinabek Police Service, held a Stuff the Cruiser fundraiser at the end of last year. For several months, students at six NNDSB secondary schools held fundraisers and collected toys to donate to the North Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre for its holiday gift-giving. Myles noted that the board is proud of Indigenous Student Trustee Riley Trudeau, the Indigenous Youth Circle and the NNDSB team for their work on this initiative.

Trustees seek investigation into board efficiencies

The Board unanimously passed a motion brought forward by Trustee Bill Steer requesting that NNDSB write a letter to the Ministry of Education, asking that the Ministry initiate, study and begin consultations regarding efficiencies within the four-board system model. Trustees also requested a letter be sent to the Ontario Public School Boards’ Association asking it to share the letter with its member boards.

In his notice of motion, Trustee Steer noted that school boards face reduced funding, the effects of which ripple through the education system. Lack of resources can hinder the ability to provide quality education, disproportionally affecting students in low-income areas where schools may be underfunded. In the long term, “reduced investment in education during economic hardships can widen achievement gaps and weaken community development.”

The motion understands the fundamental cultural, language and religious rights of all Ontarians (Canadians) and notes that consolidation can be seen as a means of increasing the access for all students to a quality education. Read more in this media release.

Trustees approve 2024-2025 capital projects list

The 2024-2025 capital projects list was presented to trustees, who approved 10 school condition improvement projects totalling $4,916,969 and 11 school renewal projects totalling $3,377,118. These are projected, not actual costs.

The list was submitted by Trustee Shane Hall, who chairs the finance committee. The capital branch of the Ministry of Education provides allocations on an annual basis for school condition improvement funding and school renewal funding. Unused allocations remain available for the board for future spending.

NNDSB’s school condition improvement funding is $3,984,203 and the school renewal projects funding is $2,705,243. The projected costs of these projects exceed the allocations, however, NNDSB has sufficient unspent capital funds available to cover the costs of the projects.

Indigenous Student Trustee’s report

Indigenous Student Trustee Riley Trudeau reported on the successful Stuff the Cruiser event, which was the Indigenous Youth Circle’s (IYC) fundraising initiative to collect holiday toys for the North Bay Indigenous Youth Circle.

She said during the second semester, IYC hopes to achieve some of the ideas coming out of individual schools. Northern hopes to find a way to put the school tipi up, and wants to do more art projects. At F.J. McElligott, students plan to create a community garden and want to have Indigenous food every week.

Teachings are happening within NNDSB schools. West Ferris has completed and is working towards medicine teachings, water teachings, powwow dance and culture teachings.

Each school has individual and personal goals and plans, which will be discussed at the next meeting. As a group, IYC will help each school move toward its goals.

IYC members are helping plan their school powwows. Parry Sound High School is holding its powwow on May 30.

IYC is also attending an event at West Ferris with Ted Nolan on May 6, and IYC is hoping to take a leadership role at this event.

Student Trustee’s report

Student Trustee Nanak Sidhu reported that January has been busy with students getting ready for exams and completing final projects before the semester wraps up.

From Feb. 13-16, the Ontario Student Trustees Association hosts its annual executive council conference, focusing on empowering student trustees “to harness their networks and collaborate effectively as leaders within their communities”.

The most recent Student Senate meeting included Laurentian Learning Centre (LLC) senators for the first time. Senators will meet on Jan. 17, and agenda items include recently created Senate materials and potential partnerships, planning the board-wide spirit event and making it an annual event and plans for the upcoming elections for Senate positions and the student trustee role, ensuring an easy transition process.

Revised budget estimates show operating deficit

Finance Chair Hall presented 2024-2025 revised estimates, which show that a 2.9 per cent decrease in enrolment, an increased cost to salaries and benefits, and an increase in transportation expenditures have altered the state of NNDSB’s budget.

In July, the Board approved a compliant draft surplus budget with an operating surplus of $61,324 and revenue and expenses of $188.8 million and $188.7 million. The revised estimates project an in-year deficit of $1,535,203. Trustees approved the revised estimates as presented, and the in-year deficit elimination plan as presented and recommended by the finance committee.

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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.

 

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

NNDSB – Letter to Families – SYC – 2025-01-17

January 17, 2025 By Brett

Friday, Jan. 17, 2025

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Every year, the four local school boards collaborate to establish a school-year calendar which aims to promote student learning, success and well-being, and to minimize the impact on the schedule of their families, staff and members of the school community, all while respecting Ministry of Education standards.

The school-year calendar must consist of 194 compulsory teaching days, a maximum of seven (7) professional activity days (pedagogical days) and a maximum of ten (10) exam days for secondary schools.

Carefully selected to provide professional development opportunities which align with Ministry of Education priorities, the proposed 2025-2026 school-year calendar includes the following seven (7) professional activity days:

The number of school days available between Sept. 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026 are limited, consequently we are not able to offer our school communities many options. We invite you to indicate your preferences in the School-Year Calendar Survey between Jan. 17 and 24, 2025. The survey will open on Jan. 17 at 8 a.m. and close on Jan. 24 at 4 p.m.

Please note that a total of 10 secondary school exam days will be subsequently added to the calendar. Preferences and comments received will be taken into consideration in developing the final version.

Trustees from every school board will adopt the recommended 2025-2026 school year calendar prior to submitting it to the Ministry of Education for approval by March 1, 2025.

Thank you for your participation and collaboration. Your feedback is greatly appreciated!

Board Holiday

Please indicate your preference between the 2 options below:

Option 1: Start of the school year on September 2, 2025, a board holiday on March 13, 2026, before the March Break and end of the school year on June 26, 2026.

Option 2: Start of the school year on September 2, 2025, and end of the school year on June 25, 2026, with a board holiday on June 26, 2026.

Kindly indicate your preference using this link: https://forms.office.com/r/kJn3ySc1nR

Filed Under: Letter to Families, News and Announcements, NNDSB Featured, NNDSB Shared News

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