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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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.

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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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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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.