Joe Santa Maria

This document outlines the Algoma District School Board's comprehensive ventilation strategy to optimize air quality in schools. Key measures include increasing fresh air intake based on occupancy, upgrading filters to MERV 13 with increased change frequency, conducting ventilation assessments, and extending the operating duration of ventilation equipment. The strategy is supported by significant board-level investments in ventilation projects, which have been ongoing since 2020-21 and are planned through 2023-24, ensuring improved air quality across all schools.

The virtual meeting discussed the planning of a spring workshop, specifically confirming Dean Shareski for an artificial intelligence session for parents on June 8th. The committee also addressed an update to the bylaw appendix to reflect a new November date.

The committee discussed the draft Special Education Plan, including its re-structured format based on Ministry standards and the process for content updates and feedback. Member organizations provided updates on various initiatives, including ASD assessments, caregiver mentorship projects, contest winners, project updates, and local community autism acceptance activities. The Board Trustees reported on policy reviews, election distributions, and school surplus declarations. Administration updates covered professional development, data collection for the Early Development Instrument, RISE software training, and various operational sessions for staff regarding student transitions and placement processes.

The committee meeting focused on updates regarding the ongoing semester, including kindergarten registration and grade 9 allocations, as well as a review of school year calendar survey results. A key discussion point was the planning for a spring workshop, with proposed topics including MyBlueprint, vaping, family math night, and artificial intelligence, with the Director exploring a potential virtual session for parents on the subject of AI.

The committee discussed strategies for improving virtual workshops, including a focus on supporting School Councils and potential scheduling for guest speakers. Plans were reviewed for tracking and reporting on the use of Parent Engagement Funding by schools. Additionally, the committee addressed the recruitment process for new members, noting that applications will open in late spring, with additional outreach efforts planned for August and September to ensure broad representation across schools.