June 19, 2020 - Ministry Of Education Releases Plan for Safe Reopening of Schools

Today, the Ontario government released its safety plan for the resumption of class for the 2020-21 school year, outlining scenarios for how students, teachers and staff can safely return to classrooms in September.

Please follow the link below to access the Ministry of Education's Plan.

https://www.ontario.ca/page/approach-reopening-schools-2020-2021-school-year

June 17, 2020 - Message to Parents

Please see the attached communication to parents from the Director of Education.

Director of Education Message to Parents June 17

June 11, 2020 - Ministry Of Education Framework for Continued Learning

The Ministry of Education has released Ontario’s Framework for Continued Learning.  The document identifies the Ministry’s plan to keep students safe and learning during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and how they will support student learning now and in the summer.  In addition, the framework outlines how the Ministry will work to reopen schools responsibly in the fall.

The Ministry has also announced Ontario’s Summer Learning Plan, which is a robust plan for summer learning opportunities, including new programs and initiatives.

Some of these initiatives include:

• new upgrading courses, which will allow Grade 9 to 12 students to upgrade a full credit course they passed during the school year in 55 hours, rather than the normal 110 hours.
• specific learning support for students with special education needs and mental health needs, including access to educational assistants (EAs), a new two-week program in skills development, learning, and routine establishment, and a summer extension of after-school programming for students with autism.
• working with our cross-government team, we will be providing virtual opportunities for students to volunteer during the summer, which can be counted toward the community service graduation requirement.

Please click below to access Ontario’s Framework for Continued Learning.

Ontario's Framework for Continued Learning

June 11, 2020 - Update on NNDSB Graduation Ceremonies

Graduation is a special and important milestone for our students. We remain supportive in honouring our grade 12 graduates and the achievements of grade 6 and 8 students in their educational journey.

COVID-19 has presented exceptional circumstances for our schools, staff, students and families. Unfortunately, graduation ceremonies are affected.

Recently we surveyed our students and families regarding graduation ceremonies. We appreciate and value all voices and thank you for your input and contributions.

We have reviewed the results of the survey and consulted with our local public health providers to explore all possible options. Our first responsibility is the health, safety and wellbeing of Near North District School Board (NNDSB) students, staff, families and school communities. In light of provincial legislation, which prohibits holding organized public events and gatherings to reduce the spread of COVID-19, it is not possible to hold traditional graduation ceremonies at this time.

As such, all NNDSB graduation ceremonies will happen virtually where possible. With the lifting of ​many restrictions by the province this past week and changes to parts of the emergency order, schools are also exploring additional ways for students to commemorate their graduation while ensuring strict adherence to established health and safety protocols.

Our Principals are working diligently with their staff and school communities to determine the best way to commemorate this special event. In the coming days, if they have not already, schools will be providing further information to parents and students.

Congratulations graduates!

June 9, 2020 - Committee of the Whole Teleconference Information

The June Committee of the Whole Meeting will be held via teleconference at 6:00 p.m on June 9, 2020. Members of the public including staff members, and media representatives, can access the meeting and listen to all deliberations through our teleconference service as follows:

Dial-In Number:  (705) 482-7613 or Toll-Free 1-(844)-883-2385

June 8, 2020 - Ontario's COVID-19 Testing Plan

The Ministry of Education has requested all school boards in Ontario share the following information concerning the Province’s plan for COVID-19 testing.

Message from the Ministry of Education

We are writing to let you know that the province released its testing plan on Friday, May 29, 2020, Protecting Ontarians Through Enhanced Testing. Ontario now has the most open testing criteria in the country.

Ontario’s testing guidance now indicates that you should visit an assessment centre if you:

• have at least one of the symptoms of COVID-19
• do not have symptoms but are concerned you might have been exposed
• do not have symptoms but think you are at risk through your employment (for example, if you are an essential or health care worker)
• would like to be tested

To support Ontarians who have identified the need to get tested, as of May 24, 2020, people will no longer need a referral to go to any of the more than 130 assessment centres across Ontario for testing. No Ontarian will be declined a test.

Given this expanded guidance, if you do choose to get tested, here are a few important notes:

• Testing is voluntary.
• You do not need an OHIP card to be tested. It is a free service.
• Some assessment centres may require you to book an appointment first or have certain restrictions (for example, some are unable to test young children). Find out more about an assessment centre near you.
• You can also take an online self-assessment to help determine if you should get tested.

If you are free of symptoms and have not had contact with anyone confirmed to have COVID-19 when presenting for testing, you will not be required to self-isolate. However, you should self-monitor for symptoms for 14 days regardless of your test result. If you begin to develop symptoms, self-isolate and contact your local public health unit for further advice.

Stay informed and visit Ontario’s website to learn more about how the province continues to protect Ontarians from COVID-19. Local information is also available from your local public health unit.

May 25, 2020 - Access to Student Belongings

With the recent announcement by the Minister of Education that schools will remain closed for the rest of the school year, the NNDSB is focused on ensuring that students and staff remain supported during this time. While we are planning for the future, including our eventual reopening and the summer learning opportunities announced by the Province, we remain committed to ensuring that students are provided with equitable access to learning and support from now until the end of June.

We know that many parents have questions concerning access to student belongings now that we know students will not be returning this year. The health and safety of our students remain a priority, and it is essential that any process for access to belongings follows the Ministry of Education closure order and adheres to the advice and guidance of appropriate health authorities. Our staff is finalizing this process and will be sharing it with you in the coming days.

May 19, 2020 - School Closed Until the End of June

On May 19, 2020, the Minister of Education announced that all publicly funded schools will remain closed for the remainder of the school year. Please see the Media Release from the Office of the Premier for additional details.

Premier of Ontario Media Release May 19, 2020

The NNDSB is currently reviewing this announcement and will be providing an update with further information in the coming days.

May 19, 2020 - Minister of Education Communication to Parents

Please see the communication below from the Honourable Minister of Education Stephen Lecce to parents.

Minister of Education Letter to Parents May 19 - English
Minister of Education Letter to Parents May 19 - French

Our teachers continue to provide learning opportunities that enable students with Individual Education Plans (IEP’s) to work toward the learning goals set out in their IEPs and a successful experience while learning from home.  Support staff at both the school and board level, continue to collaborate with the classroom or subject area teachers and with the students with whom they support regularly, to ensure that they have the accommodations and resources necessary to successfully engage in learning at home.  Click the link below to access more information on how we continue to support our students with special education needs.

Supporting our Students with Special Education Needs

April 30, 2020 - Looking After Student Mental Wellness

These are trying times for students and parents and we are here to help.  Our Mental Health Team has developed resources and guidance to assist parents in supporting their children during this time. Click the link below to access the information and resources.

Student Mental Wellness

April 28, 2020 - NNDSB Parent Guide to Distance Learning

Understanding that teaching and delivery of services will not look the same and will likely continue to evolve over the coming days and weeks, we want to assure you that you and your child will be supported.  We know that not all circumstances are the same and that families are facing many challenges at this time.  A Parent Guide has been developed to assist parents and guardians in navigating this new environment with their child and understanding what is involved in distance learning.  And as always, please reach out to your child's teacher with any questions or concerns.

NNDSB Parent Guide to Distance Learning

April 21, 2020 - Kindergarten Registration Now Available Online

During school closures due to COVID-19, the Near North District School Board will be accepting school registrations through an online application process.

The online registration package is available for families registering their children for school with the Near North District School Board.  Children turning four (4) years of age on or before December 31^st of the current year and students who are new to the Near North District School Board can access the online Registration Form.  Schools will contact families to confirm receipt of the registration form.

Please visit our registration page for additional information.

April 9, 2020 - Message from the Director of Education and Board Chair

Our community is facing the COVID-19 challenge together. The NNDSB is doing everything we can to keep families safe and healthy, and to be a strong community partner.  We miss all of you and look forward to a time when our schools are open, filled with students and staff, and our educational community is together again.

Until then, we all need to do our part by maintaining physical distancing, self-isolating, and taking preventative measures to help protect you and your family. Please stay safe and know that we are here for you.

Please visit our website for updates and information at www.nearnorthschools.ca.
To access online teacher-led instruction visit: https://www.nearnorthschools.ca/learning-at-home/
To access Mental Health Supports and Resources visit: https://www.nearnorthschools.ca/we-are-here-to-help/

If you are unable to access online learning, please call your school Monday to Friday or email info@nearnorthschools.ca anytime.

Craig Myles, Director of Education
Jay Aspin, Chair, Board of Trustees

April 6, 2020 - Ontario Government Announces One-Time Financial Assistance for Parents During COVID-19

The Ontario government is offering direct financial support to parents while Ontario schools and child-care centres remain closed as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak.

The new Support for Families initiative offers a one-time payment of $200 per child 0 to 12 years of age and $250 for those 0 to 21 years of age with special needs.

Families can complete a simple online application at Ontario's Support for Families web page to access this financial support.  Parents already receiving Support for Parents payments through direct deposit will be automatically eligible for this financial support and do not need to submit a new application.

Please visit the Ontario Support for Families for additional information.

https://www.ontario.ca/page/get-support-families

MARCH 31, 2020 - NNDSB Playgrounds and Amenities Closed

The provincial government has ordered the closure of all outdoor recreational amenities, such as sports fields and playgrounds, effective immediately. These actions are based on the advice of the Chief Medical Officer of Health.

In support of this order, effective immediately the Near North District School Board (NNDSB) will be closing all school playgrounds and other amenities, including sports fields and access to school board property until further notice.  Although playgrounds and other amenities are an important part of our school communities, we hope to minimize the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on NNDSB students, staff, families and community members.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we work together to maintain the health and safety of our communities.

MARCH 28, 2020 - NNDSB Launches Online Learning Resources

The NEW Near North Passport to Learning webpage offers a variety of resources and tools that cover a range of grades and subjects that may be helpful for students and parents during this time.  Resources will continue to be updated and expanded on an ongoing basis.

When students or staff login to our board website using their NNDSB username and password, they have access to digital tools that enable productivity, communication, collaboration, and creativity.  Furthermore, they may access hundreds of educational resources, including online subscriptions, encyclopedias, research archives and more.

Click on the image below to access your Passport to Learning!

Keeping You Updated

We want to keep our students, staff, parents, and school communities informed. The decision to close schools came abruptly and we will share new information with you as it becomes available to us.  Updates will be provided through the following channels:

Website: https://www.nearnorthschools.ca/ This should be your primary source for all board updates on COVID-19 impacting NNDSB board students, staff and families.
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/nearnorthschools
Twitter:  @nearnorthschool

The COVID -19 information on the NNDSB website will be updated every Tuesday and Thursday by 4:00 p.m.  This is in addition to the communication of any developing and urgent information. In the event that there is a technology failure and websites aren't working, we will continue to post updates on the board's social media channels.

June 19, 2020 - Ministry Of Education Releases Plan for Safe Reopening of Schools

Today, the Ontario government released its safety plan for the resumption of class for the 2020-21 school year, outlining scenarios for how students, teachers and staff can safely return to classrooms in September.

Please follow the link below to access the Ministry of Education's Plan.

https://www.ontario.ca/page/approach-reopening-schools-2020-2021-school-year

June 17, 2020 - Message to Parents

Please see the attached communication to parents from the Director of Education.

Director of Education Message to Parents June 17

June 11, 2020 - Ministry Of Education Framework for Continued Learning

The Ministry of Education has released Ontario’s Framework for Continued Learning.  The document identifies the Ministry’s plan to keep students safe and learning during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and how they will support student learning now and in the summer.  In addition, the framework outlines how the Ministry will work to reopen schools responsibly in the fall.

The Ministry has also announced Ontario’s Summer Learning Plan, which is a robust plan for summer learning opportunities, including new programs and initiatives.

Some of these initiatives include:

• new upgrading courses, which will allow Grade 9 to 12 students to upgrade a full credit course they passed during the school year in 55 hours, rather than the normal 110 hours.
• specific learning support for students with special education needs and mental health needs, including access to educational assistants (EAs), a new two-week program in skills development, learning, and routine establishment, and a summer extension of after-school programming for students with autism.
• working with our cross-government team, we will be providing virtual opportunities for students to volunteer during the summer, which can be counted toward the community service graduation requirement.

Please click below to access Ontario’s Framework for Continued Learning.

Ontario's Framework for Continued Learning

June 11, 2020 - Update on NNDSB Graduation Ceremonies

Graduation is a special and important milestone for our students. We remain supportive in honouring our grade 12 graduates and the achievements of grade 6 and 8 students in their educational journey.

COVID-19 has presented exceptional circumstances for our schools, staff, students and families. Unfortunately, graduation ceremonies are affected.

Recently we surveyed our students and families regarding graduation ceremonies. We appreciate and value all voices and thank you for your input and contributions.

We have reviewed the results of the survey and consulted with our local public health providers to explore all possible options. Our first responsibility is the health, safety and wellbeing of Near North District School Board (NNDSB) students, staff, families and school communities. In light of provincial legislation, which prohibits holding organized public events and gatherings to reduce the spread of COVID-19, it is not possible to hold traditional graduation ceremonies at this time.

As such, all NNDSB graduation ceremonies will happen virtually where possible. With the lifting of ​many restrictions by the province this past week and changes to parts of the emergency order, schools are also exploring additional ways for students to commemorate their graduation while ensuring strict adherence to established health and safety protocols.

Our Principals are working diligently with their staff and school communities to determine the best way to commemorate this special event. In the coming days, if they have not already, schools will be providing further information to parents and students.

Congratulations graduates!

June 9, 2020 - Committee of the Whole Teleconference Information

The June Committee of the Whole Meeting will be held via teleconference at 6:00 p.m on June 9, 2020. Members of the public including staff members, and media representatives, can access the meeting and listen to all deliberations through our teleconference service as follows:

Dial-In Number:  (705) 482-7613 or Toll-Free 1-(844)-883-2385

June 8, 2020 - Ontario's COVID-19 Testing Plan

The Ministry of Education has requested all school boards in Ontario share the following information concerning the Province’s plan for COVID-19 testing.

Message from the Ministry of Education

We are writing to let you know that the province released its testing plan on Friday, May 29, 2020, Protecting Ontarians Through Enhanced Testing. Ontario now has the most open testing criteria in the country.

Ontario’s testing guidance now indicates that you should visit an assessment centre if you:

• have at least one of the symptoms of COVID-19
• do not have symptoms but are concerned you might have been exposed
• do not have symptoms but think you are at risk through your employment (for example, if you are an essential or health care worker)
• would like to be tested

To support Ontarians who have identified the need to get tested, as of May 24, 2020, people will no longer need a referral to go to any of the more than 130 assessment centres across Ontario for testing. No Ontarian will be declined a test.

Given this expanded guidance, if you do choose to get tested, here are a few important notes:

• Testing is voluntary.
• You do not need an OHIP card to be tested. It is a free service.
• Some assessment centres may require you to book an appointment first or have certain restrictions (for example, some are unable to test young children). Find out more about an assessment centre near you.
• You can also take an online self-assessment to help determine if you should get tested.

If you are free of symptoms and have not had contact with anyone confirmed to have COVID-19 when presenting for testing, you will not be required to self-isolate. However, you should self-monitor for symptoms for 14 days regardless of your test result. If you begin to develop symptoms, self-isolate and contact your local public health unit for further advice.

Stay informed and visit Ontario’s website to learn more about how the province continues to protect Ontarians from COVID-19. Local information is also available from your local public health unit.

May 25, 2020 - Access to Student Belongings

With the recent announcement by the Minister of Education that schools will remain closed for the rest of the school year, the NNDSB is focused on ensuring that students and staff remain supported during this time. While we are planning for the future, including our eventual reopening and the summer learning opportunities announced by the Province, we remain committed to ensuring that students are provided with equitable access to learning and support from now until the end of June.

We know that many parents have questions concerning access to student belongings now that we know students will not be returning this year. The health and safety of our students remain a priority, and it is essential that any process for access to belongings follows the Ministry of Education closure order and adheres to the advice and guidance of appropriate health authorities. Our staff is finalizing this process and will be sharing it with you in the coming days.

May 19, 2020 - School Closed Until the End of June

On May 19, 2020, the Minister of Education announced that all publicly funded schools will remain closed for the remainder of the school year. Please see the Media Release from the Office of the Premier for additional details.

Premier of Ontario Media Release May 19, 2020

The NNDSB is currently reviewing this announcement and will be providing an update with further information in the coming days.

May 19, 2020 - Minister of Education Communication to Parents

Please see the communication below from the Honourable Minister of Education Stephen Lecce to parents.

Minister of Education Letter to Parents May 19 - English
Minister of Education Letter to Parents May 19 - French

Our teachers continue to provide learning opportunities that enable students with Individual Education Plans (IEP’s) to work toward the learning goals set out in their IEPs and a successful experience while learning from home.  Support staff at both the school and board level, continue to collaborate with the classroom or subject area teachers and with the students with whom they support regularly, to ensure that they have the accommodations and resources necessary to successfully engage in learning at home.  Click the link below to access more information on how we continue to support our students with special education needs.

Supporting our Students with Special Education Needs

April 30, 2020 - Looking After Student Mental Wellness

These are trying times for students and parents and we are here to help.  Our Mental Health Team has developed resources and guidance to assist parents in supporting their children during this time. Click the link below to access the information and resources.

Student Mental Wellness

April 28, 2020 - NNDSB Parent Guide to Distance Learning

Understanding that teaching and delivery of services will not look the same and will likely continue to evolve over the coming days and weeks, we want to assure you that you and your child will be supported.  We know that not all circumstances are the same and that families are facing many challenges at this time.  A Parent Guide has been developed to assist parents and guardians in navigating this new environment with their child and understanding what is involved in distance learning.  And as always, please reach out to your child's teacher with any questions or concerns.

NNDSB Parent Guide to Distance Learning

April 21, 2020 - Kindergarten Registration Now Available Online

During school closures due to COVID-19, the Near North District School Board will be accepting school registrations through an online application process.

The online registration package is available for families registering their children for school with the Near North District School Board.  Children turning four (4) years of age on or before December 31^st of the current year and students who are new to the Near North District School Board can access the online Registration Form.  Schools will contact families to confirm receipt of the registration form.

Please visit our registration page for additional information.

April 9, 2020 - Message from the Director of Education and Board Chair

Our community is facing the COVID-19 challenge together. The NNDSB is doing everything we can to keep families safe and healthy, and to be a strong community partner.  We miss all of you and look forward to a time when our schools are open, filled with students and staff, and our educational community is together again.

Until then, we all need to do our part by maintaining physical distancing, self-isolating, and taking preventative measures to help protect you and your family. Please stay safe and know that we are here for you.

Please visit our website for updates and information at www.nearnorthschools.ca.
To access online teacher-led instruction visit: https://www.nearnorthschools.ca/learning-at-home/
To access Mental Health Supports and Resources visit: https://www.nearnorthschools.ca/we-are-here-to-help/

If you are unable to access online learning, please call your school Monday to Friday or email info@nearnorthschools.ca anytime.

Craig Myles, Director of Education
Jay Aspin, Chair, Board of Trustees

April 6, 2020 - Ontario Government Announces One-Time Financial Assistance for Parents During COVID-19

The Ontario government is offering direct financial support to parents while Ontario schools and child-care centres remain closed as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak.

The new Support for Families initiative offers a one-time payment of $200 per child 0 to 12 years of age and $250 for those 0 to 21 years of age with special needs.

Families can complete a simple online application at Ontario's Support for Families web page to access this financial support.  Parents already receiving Support for Parents payments through direct deposit will be automatically eligible for this financial support and do not need to submit a new application.

Please visit the Ontario Support for Families for additional information.

https://www.ontario.ca/page/get-support-families

MARCH 31, 2020 - NNDSB Playgrounds and Amenities Closed

The provincial government has ordered the closure of all outdoor recreational amenities, such as sports fields and playgrounds, effective immediately. These actions are based on the advice of the Chief Medical Officer of Health.

In support of this order, effective immediately the Near North District School Board (NNDSB) will be closing all school playgrounds and other amenities, including sports fields and access to school board property until further notice.  Although playgrounds and other amenities are an important part of our school communities, we hope to minimize the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on NNDSB students, staff, families and community members.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we work together to maintain the health and safety of our communities.

MARCH 28, 2020 - NNDSB Launches Online Learning Resources

The NEW Near North Passport to Learning webpage offers a variety of resources and tools that cover a range of grades and subjects that may be helpful for students and parents during this time.  Resources will continue to be updated and expanded on an ongoing basis.

When students or staff login to our board website using their NNDSB username and password, they have access to digital tools that enable productivity, communication, collaboration, and creativity.  Furthermore, they may access hundreds of educational resources, including online subscriptions, encyclopedias, research archives and more.

Click on the image below to access your Passport to Learning!

Keeping You Updated

We want to keep our students, staff, parents, and school communities informed. The decision to close schools came abruptly and we will share new information with you as it becomes available to us.  Updates will be provided through the following channels:

Website: https://www.nearnorthschools.ca/ This should be your primary source for all board updates on COVID-19 impacting NNDSB board students, staff and families.
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/nearnorthschools
Twitter:  @nearnorthschool

The COVID -19 information on the NNDSB website will be updated every Tuesday and Thursday by 4:00 p.m.  This is in addition to the communication of any developing and urgent information. In the event that there is a technology failure and websites aren't working, we will continue to post updates on the board's social media channels.

May 15, 2020 - Message from the Director of Education

Dear Parents/Guardians,

We are writing to provide you with an update on our efforts to ensure continuity of learning for our students. It is expected that the Minister of Education will be making an announcement regarding the remainder of the school year early next week as it relates to current school closures. The NNDSB will review this announcement when it happens and will provide families with an update in the days ahead. Until then, we will continue to work together to ensure that our students and your children feel supported.

Distance Learning Equity Plan

In response to needs identified through school surveys, the NNDSB began the process of providing board owned devices to students who do not have access to technology/internet. Our IT Customer Support team continues to work on device logistics, setup, configuration, policy, and eventual deployment to schools for curbside pickup. Devices are deployed to students based on identified needs and access to the internet, among other considerations.

It is important to note that the provision of devices is only one component of our Distance Learning Equity Plan. We will continue to utilize all available avenues to reach our students to ensure the continuation of learning. Our process involves the development of a plan best suited to the specific situation of each student. This is done through dialogue and collaboration between the teacher, principal, and the family.  Please contact your child’s school to discuss specific needs and requirements.

Please visit our Passport to Learning page for more information and contact your school if you have any questions or require assistance.

Graduations

Our schools are in the process of surveying our graduating students, parents, and Student Senate to determine what preferences there are for graduation ceremonies and celebrations. Once this information has been compiled, we will be developing a plan which considers our local needs, stakeholder input and the direction from the Minister of Education that graduation ceremonies are not to be cancelled. This information will be communicated to parents and students as soon as it is available.

Access to Student Lockers and Belongings

The direction from the Minister of Education is clear that schools are not to be opened for students or parents. We are working with the Ministry of Education and other school boards to develop a plan and process for accessing student belongings. This will be communicated to you as soon as it is available. In the meantime, if the need to access belongings is an emergency or urgent, please contact your school principal.

Mental Health Awareness

These are trying times for students and parents, and we are here to help. Our Mental Health Team has developed resources and guidance materials to assist parents in supporting their children during this time. Moving forward, we will be using our website and social media sites to bring awareness to the importance of mental health, along with resources and messages of support. Your support in sharing these messages with our students and community would be appreciated.

Additional information on Mental Health resources and supports is available on our website at Student Mental Wellness.

Supporting our Students with Special Education Needs

Teachers continue to provide learning opportunities that enable students with Individual Education Plans (IEP’s) to work toward the learning goals set out in their IEPs and successful experience while learning from home. Support staff at both the school and board level, continue to collaborate with the classroom or subject area teachers and with the students with whom they regularly support, to ensure that they have the accommodations and resources necessary to engage in learning at home successfully.

Additional information on Special Education Programming during school closures is available on our website at Special Education Updates.

 NNDSB Helping from Home

In partnership with Nipissing Mental Health Housing and Support Services, the Near North District School Board is launching the “Helping from Home” campaign. The campaign will support homeless individuals living in the community.

Helping from Home provides an avenue for students to continue to engage in caring citizenship while remaining safe at home. The campaign simply asks students and their families to spread the word, give what they can, and share the link to the donation page for the Nipissing Mental Health Housing and Support Services at https://nmhhss.ca/contact-us/donate-today/. Donations will go towards the purchase of essential items such as personal hygiene items, clothing etc.

Please continue to visit www.nearnorthschools.ca for the most up-to-date information.

We know that this new way of learning can present challenges for some families, and that is a learning process for everyone involved. Thank you for your continued support of our staff during this time.

Craig Myles

Director of Education

May 11, 2020 - Committee of the Whole Teleconference Information

The May Committee of the Whole Meeting will be held via teleconference at 6:00 p.m on May 12, 2020. Members of the public including staff members, and media representatives, can access the meeting and listen to all deliberations through our teleconference service as follows:

Dial-In Number:  (705) 482-7613 or Toll-Free 1-(844) 883-7613

April 29, 2020 - Minister of Education Letter to Parents

Please find attached a letter to parents from the Minister of Education Stephen Lecce.

Minister letter to parents English
Minister letter to parents French

April 28, 2020 - Board Meeting Teleconference Information

The April Board Meeting will be held via teleconference at 6:30 p.m on April 28, 2020.  Members of the public including staff members, and media representatives, can access the meeting and listen to all deliberations through our teleconference service as follows:

Dial-In Number: 1-888-289-4573

Access Code: 4738570

April 27, 2020 - Schools to Remain Closed Until May 31, 2020

On April 26, 2020, Education Minister Stephen Lecce announced that all publicly-funded schools will remain closed until at least May 31, 2020, as part of an effort to keep students, staff and families, safe from COVID-19.  This was expected, and a necessary step to keep us safe.

The Minister of Education also announced that the remainder of Professional Activity (PA) days and examination days will be replaced with instructional time.  As well, the Ministry will introduce an expanded summer learning program that will focus on credit recovery, supports for vulnerable students, and course upgrading.  The Minister did not indicate that the school year will be extended.  The Near North District School Board will be reviewing this information and will provide families with an update in the days ahead.

Please visit the Province of Ontario Newsroom for additional information on the announcement.

Ontario Newsroom School Closures

Student Learning Packages

Schools are working to prepare and distribute learning packages for those students without technology and internet access.  The learning packages will be developed based on curriculum requirements, Ministry of Education Guidelines, and educator knowledge of their classroom and students.  This process will require the teacher, principal, and family to work collaboratively together to develop a plan best suited to each specific situation.

Student learning packages will be distributed via parent curbside pick-up and drop-off and mailing through Canada Post.  School staff will be contacting parents to coordinate the pick-up or delivery of learning packages.  For pick-up of learning packages, parents will be provided with a specific date and time when they can access learning packages by way of curbside pick-up from the school.  Please review the attached Curbside Pick Up Protocol before attending the school.

Curbside Pick Up Protocol

Please contact your school if you have any questions or require assistance.

Expanding Technology Enabled Learning

In response to needs identified through school surveys, the NNDSB will begin providing board owned devices to students who do not have access to technology/internet.  Secondary students will receive access to technology starting this week, followed by students in both panels who do not have access to technology/internet (secondary and elementary) being able to access board owned MacBooks, iPads, and various types of LTE enabled hotspot devices the following week.

School staff will be contacting parents to coordinate the pick-up of devices.  Parents will be provided with a specific date and time when they can access required devices by way of curbside pick-up from the school.  Please review the attached Curbside Pick Up Protocol before visiting the school.

Curbside Pick Up Protocol

Before receiving any devices or technology, parents/guardians for any student under 18 years of age and students 18 and over may be required to provide proof of identification.

Please contact your school if you have any questions or require assistance.

Visit our Passport to Learning Page for additional information and support for families on getting started with devices.

April 14, 2020 - Committee of the Whole Teleconference Information

The April Committee of the Whole Meeting will be held via teleconference at 6:00 p.m on April 14, 2020.  Members of the public including staff members, and media representatives, can access the meeting and listen to all deliberations through our teleconference service as follows:

Dial-In Number: 1-888-289-4573

Access Code: 4738570

April 3, 2020 - Reinstatement of Teacher-Led Learning

Dear Near North Families,

Premier Ford officially announced that all publicly funded schools in Ontario, including those in the Near North District School Board (NNDSB), will remain closed to students until May 4, 2020, to prevent the spread of COVID-19.  To support the learning needs of all students, we are planning to reinstate teacher-led learning on April 6, 2020.  We appreciate that we may experience some needed adjustments initially, but we hope to be able to reach and support every learner in the days ahead.

In anticipation of April 6, 2020, the NNDSB has been working on the following:

• We have been working with staff to support both technology and non-technology approaches to learning at home.
• We have created an internal professional learning portal - to support teachers in developing skills using digital tools to support your children as they learn at home.
• During these first weeks, teachers have engaged in professional learning in preparation for a continuation of learning.
• We have created a list of online resources to support learning at home and made them accessible through the new Passport for Learning website. This site provides access to online learning that will be familiar to you and your child, including Edsby, LMS, Bright space, and more.
• We are exploring new opportunities to support learning at home.

Our goal, as always, is to provide equitable access to learning and support for our students.  We recognize that access to broadband internet connectivity remains a challenge in many homes and communities throughout the district and that not all families have access to technology, including tablets and computers.  We will be reaching out to NNDSB families in the next few days by email or phone to determine your family’s technology needs and challenges.  We appreciate your cooperation in providing this information to us.

The NNDSB  will be implementing a variety of online resources and learning experiences for K-12 students.  To ensure equity for those without access to online learning, we are working to ensure that alternate learning strategies will be available.  To that extent, we continue to work on the development of off-line learning solutions.  Our priority remains the health and safety of our community and ensuring that we are compliant with Ministry directives in reducing the spread of COVID-19.  We ask for your continued patience and support as we move forward in developing approaches that do not increase the potential spread of COVID-19.

As always, continue to check our website and social media channels (Facebook and Twitter) for updates as they become available.  We will also communicate with you periodically through the SchoolMessenger platform.

Be safe.

Craig Myles
Director of Education

April 1, 2020 - Ministry Extends School Closures to May 4, 2020

Dear Near North Families,

Yesterday, Premier Ford officially announced that all publicly funded schools in Ontario, including those in the Near North District School Board, will remain closed to students until May 4, 2020, to further prevent the spread of COVID-19.  The closure may be extended if necessary based on public health advice to protect the health and safety of students, families, and staff. At this time, we do not know if further extensions will be announced but commit to keeping you updated as new information becomes available.

The Ministry of Education announced it is now entering Phase 2 of its Learn at Home strategy to support the continuity of learning for students and families. School boards expect to receive further details and direction from the Ministry, at which time such communication will be reviewed to inform the next steps.

As you know, on Friday, March 27, the Board released online learning resources so students can continue learning at home. Resources will be added to this website over the next few weeks, while the Board moves forward with implementing virtual teacher-led instruction.  Please visit https://www.nearnorthschools.ca/learning-at-home/ to access these resources.

Please continue to follow www.nearnorthschools.ca for the most up-to-date information.

Take care of yourselves and each other, and stay healthy.

Craig Myles
Director of Education

MARCH 31, 2020 - Minister of Education Communication to Parents

Please find attached a letter to parents from Minister of Education Stephen Lecce.

Letter to Parents - March 31 2020 EN
Letter to Parents - March 31 2020 FR

MARCH 27, 2020 - Updated Information for Near North Families

Please see the attached important communication to our Near North Families from the Director of Education.

Update on Learning March 27

MARCH 26, 2020 - Continuity of Learning

While we await further Ministry direction, we are proactively working with the Ministry to develop a continuity of learning plan. We know that it’s not possible to replicate the school day online, but it is possible to identify key curricular concepts, best practices for online/remote learning, ensure online learning platforms and resources are in place and establish new ways for teacher collaboration, instruction, and assessment. We recognize that families have many questions about how learning will continue and we will expect to bring clarity to this over the next two weeks.

MARCH 25, 2020 - Board Meeting Information

On March 19, 2020, in response to the current public health situation both globally and in Ontario, the provincial government made regulatory changes to allow for school boards to be able to continue to meet during mandated school closures.  The regulatory amendments permit school board meetings to be conducted exclusively via electronic/virtual platforms until 60 days after the expiration of a provincial order to close all publicly-funded schools.

The March Regular Board Meeting will be held via teleconference at 6:00 p.m on March 25, 2020.  Members of the public including staff members and media representatives can access the meeting and listen to all deliberations through our teleconference services as follows:

Dial-In Number: 1-888-289-4573

Access Code: 4738570

MARCH 20, 2020 – News and Updates

Minister of Education Launches Online Resources for Students During Closures

On March 20, 2020 the Minister of Education announced the launch of a new online portal that will provide resources for families so students can continue their education while schools are closed due to the ongoing COVID-19 situation.

The Minister of Education has advised that Learn at Home offers all students high-quality, made-in-Ontario math and literacy resources, created by Ontario-certified educators, in both English and French. Elementary resources are designed to help young students learn at home with interactive activities that encourage participation through entertaining and stimulating digital content. High school content was designed with a focus on STEM courses and ensure core competencies and skills are reinforced. The government is also providing access to course content for students who take the initiative to refresh and extend their learning. (Ministry of Education, March 20, 2020 https://news.ontario.ca/opo/en/2020/03/ontario-helping-students-learn-from-the-safety-of-their-own-home.html)

To obtain additional information including how to access these resources please visit  Learn at Home (English) or  Apprendre à la maison (French).

Education Act Amended to Permit Virtual Board Meetings

On March 19, 2020 in response to the current public health situation both globally and in Ontario, the provincial government made regulatory changes to allow for school boards to be able to continue to meet during mandated school closures.

The regulatory amendments will enable school board meetings to be conducted exclusively via electronic/virtual platforms until 60 days after the expiration of a provincial order to close all publicly-funded schools. The Near North District School Board is exploring options for ensuring that all such meetings remain open to the public in accordance with the requirements of the Education Act.  Further information will be provided shortly.

For more information on the regulatory amendments, please refer directly to the Ontario e-Laws website.

MARCH 19, 2020 - UPDATE

The Near North District School Board will continue to take direction from the Ministry of Education during this school closure.  We will continue to engage in regular communication with the Ministry of Education regarding COVID-19 developments and any required action.

MARCH 13, 2020 - IMPACT OF SCHOOL CLOSURE ON USE OF FACILITIES

Further to the announcement by the Minister of Education on Thursday, March 12, 2020 that a Ministerial Order has been issued to close all publicly funded schools in Ontario for the period of March 14 through to April 5, 2020 in response to the emergence in Ontario of COVID-19, please note the following information:

Closure of Schools

All Near North District School Board elementary and secondary schools will be closed to students and staff beginning March 14, 2020 through to April 5, 2020.  This includes all school-based staff who will not be required to report to their school.

Child Care, School Aged Programs and EarlyON Child and Family Centres

During the Ministry ordered school closure, all child care, school aged programs, and Early On Child and Family programs located in NNDSB schools will remain closed.  We recognize the significant impact this decision will have on families, students, schools, as well as the broader community, but this precaution is necessary to keep people safe.

Community Use Programs

All community use of facilities permits, agreements and use by groups and external parties are cancelled during the Ministry ordered school closure.

Additional Information and Updates

As we continue to monitor this situation the NNDSB website will be utilized as the primacy mechanism for providing updated information as soon as new information is received, and decisions are made.

Follow up communications will be made to impacted stakeholders as necessary in accordance with past practice.   However, at this time redirecting parties to the website is the most effective means of communicating information quickly.

March 12, 2020 - Late this afternoon, the Premier’s Office and Minister of Education announced that all publicly funded schools in Ontario will be closed for the period of March 14 through to April 5, 2020 in response to the emergence in Ontario of COVID-19.

As such, all Near North District School Board schools will be closed to students and staff beginning March 14, 2020 until April 5, 2020 inclusive. This decision was made by the Minister of Education on the advice of the province’s chief public health official and is aimed at reducing the rates of transmission of COVID-19.

We recognize the significant impact this decision will have on families, students, schools, as well as the broader community, but this precaution is necessary to keep people safe. We also understand that there are a number of questions that students, staff and families will have as a result of this announcement. We will provide more information as soon as we learn more. Thank you for your ongoing patience.

NNDSB FACILITIES CLOSED UNTIL APRIL 6, 2020

 All Near North District School Board (NNDSB)  schools and buildings will remain closed until April 6, 2020 to all staff, students and community members.  This closure applies to all NNDSB facilities and programs, including programs and services in non-school locations, including Section 23 programs. All child-care centres in schools will be closed. Community use of schools, before and after school programs, athletics, field trips, dual credits and co-operative education are cancelled.  While the risk remains low for COVID-19 exposure within our district, this decision is intended to keep all our students, staff and communities safe by minimizing the potential for additional rates of transmission of COVID-19.

During the closure all employees who are working are being directed to work from home.  The NNDSB will continue to monitor all schools and facilities during the closure to ensure that we continue to meet all health and safety requirements and are ready for the eventual return of students and staff.

March 9, 2020 -Information on Coronavirus and Health Precautions

The health and safety of all students, staff and school communities is our top priority. In partnership with public health officials, the Near North District School Board (NNDSB) is closely monitoring the current situation with regards to the novel coronavirus.

We understand that many of our families have questions and concerns. Public health officials continue to advise that the risk to the public remains low.  As a result, the Ontario Chief Medical Officer of Health and the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit are not advising schools to take any additional precautions.

Ontario Ministry of Health Letter - January 27, 2020