Claire Dodaro

The council meeting addressed several key topics including a consultation regarding police presence in schools following legislative changes, and a review of the Black Voices courses, focusing on curriculum implementation, the need for representative staffing, and support for educators. Members also discussed council membership policies, proposals for a Black Voices study report similar to those conducted by other boards, and concerns regarding anti-Black racism. Additionally, an update was provided on the Graduation Coach for Black Students program, detailing recent workshops, fundraising initiatives, and student engagement events.

The board met to consider a request from the Ontario English Catholic Teachers' Association to expand the existing flag policy to permit the flying of the Pride flag. The meeting included presentations from various delegates expressing diverse viewpoints on the matter. The administration provided a report on the flag protocol, noting the Ministry of Education's directive for trustees to reconsider the policy while acknowledging that denominational rights remain under the board's authority.

The council received a presentation on the Indigenous Student Voice Project, which utilizes art-based research to capture student experiences and well-being. Updates were provided on the Board Action Plan for 2024-2025 and 2025-2026, noting funding constraints affecting the Wiimbaamitigoogshiing Land-Based Learning Program. Additional discussions covered the progress of the Strategic Plan for Indigenous Education, ongoing policy consultations regarding the Black Community Advisory Council, student concerns over program communication, and planning for a future meeting with the Director.

This document outlines the third year of a Mathematics Achievement Action Plan, a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing student confidence and competence in mathematics and preparing students for future success. Key focus areas include improving student math achievement, providing administrator EQAO assessment in-service training, and implementing short learning cycles in priority schools for gap closing. The plan emphasizes building a strong culture of excellence in mathematics teaching and learning through comprehensive support, data-informed decision-making, and high-impact teaching practices.

The meeting included a presentation to recognize the outgoing Audit Committee Chair for her twelve years of service and contributions to the organization. Additionally, the committee received a progress update report from the Regional Internal Audit Team, during which confidence was expressed in the team's ongoing work and communication. The meeting also included an in camera session to review various audit reports, including those related to procurement compliance and specific school site audits.