Brendan Browne

This Indigenous Education Framework, titled 'The Tree of Life,' outlines the Toronto Catholic District School Board's commitment to Indigenous education and reconciliation. Rooted in Indigenous ways of knowing and the Four R's (Responsibilities, Relevance, Respect, Reciprocity), the framework aims to create an inclusive community where Indigenous Knowledge is respected, shared, and celebrated. Key strategic areas include nurturing the well-being and success of Indigenous students, fostering understanding and respect between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples, empowering Indigenous voices, supporting the revitalization of Indigenous languages and cultures, and preparing all students and staff to participate in reconciliation. Implementation focuses on growing the Indigenous Education Council, revising hiring practices, establishing cultural and ceremonial spaces, creating safe spaces for Indigenous learners, and developing an annual growth plan with a robust evaluation framework.

This document introduces the Toronto Catholic District School Board's new "Pastoral Plan: Walking with Christ with eyes of faith and hope." The plan calls for serving, caring, and compassionate community engagement, emphasizing the unique value of every individual within the school and parish. A key focus is on bullying awareness and prevention to cultivate safe and welcoming school environments for all students.

The meeting included discussions on the accessibility of public meetings, the draft Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) Annual Calendar for 2025-2026, and the Special Education Plan. Updates were recommended to the IPRC Appeal Process in the Special Education Plan. The Special Services Superintendent provided an update. The committee reviewed and maintained goals for the 2025-2026 school year, focusing on supporting special education students transitioning out of the educational system, increasing committee membership, reviewing policies impacting special education students, reviewing handbooks for parents and guardians, and providing feedback to the Special Education Plan. Inquiries were addressed regarding the role of guidance counselors in supporting students with special needs, the status of modified school days, denial of education, and the status of a new member application for SEAC.

The meeting included discussions on several key items. A notice of motion from Easter Seals Ontario regarding the cessation of live streaming and recording of SEAC meetings was addressed, with a waiver of the seven-day notice period to allow its consideration. The draft SEAC Annual Calendar for 2025-2026 and sections of the Special Education Plan, specifically focusing on the Individual Education Plan (IEP) templates for both elementary and secondary levels, were reviewed. An update from the Special Services Superintendent was provided, and a motion was considered regarding the reinstatement of SEAC meeting recordings and live streams to ensure accessibility for all interested parties. Reports were also presented from Easter Seals Ontario concerning support for children with physical disabilities.

The approved motions included updates to the Electronic Meetings and Meeting Attendance Policy, and the Cafeteria Services and Food and Beverage Sold in Schools Policy. The Awards, Scholarships, and Bursaries Policy was approved with an amendment to replace 'pride' with 'honor'. The Credit Union Policy and Business Cards Policy were rescinded. The SEAC discussed and received updates on the Special Education Plan, Multi-Year Accessibility Plan, and Accessibility Annual Report. A motion regarding Improved Accommodation Process for Students with Neurodivergent Differences (Disabilities) / Special Education Needs failed. The Board also discussed the Toronto Catholic District School Board's (TCDSB) decision to exclude March for Life Week from its Activities Calendar and recognized several TCDSB staff members for their contributions. The 2025 - 2026 Updated Budget Framework was presented, and the 2025 - 2026 Budget Engagement Results were reviewed.