Kristen Hebner

The board meeting addressed several key topics including public delegations regarding the use of Artificial Intelligence in schools, confirmation of student trustees and Shakowennakará:tats for the upcoming term, and an inquiry into developing a formal Artificial Intelligence policy. Committee reports were presented covering the Board Improvement Plan for literacy, numeracy, and future preparedness, the Human Rights and Equity Action Plan, and financial updates regarding the allocation of proceeds of disposition. The board also reviewed employee attendance monitoring, interim financial status, and updates on capital projects.

The committee meeting addressed several key operational and financial matters for the upcoming 2026-2027 school year. Discussions focused on the non-school based staffing report, outlining adjustments in full-time equivalent positions due to enrolment changes and funding updates. The committee also reviewed the accommodation strategy schedule, which includes boundary reviews and capital projects. Additionally, the meeting covered a budget status update, presenting findings from community consultation surveys that highlighted preferences for investment in direct classroom supports, specialized student services, and facility maintenance.

This document serves as a progress report for the Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board's Multi-Year Strategic Plan, highlighting advancements in Literacy, Numeracy, and Future Preparedness. It also details the Human Rights and Equity Action Plan, which encompasses Indigenous Educational Wellness, Inclusive Classroom Pedagogies, Dismantling Anti-Black Racism, Anti-racist and Anti-oppression Learning and Work Environments, development of a culture addressing human rights barriers, and Employment Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. The plan aims to foster academic excellence, promote student well-being, prepare students for future success, and cultivate an equitable and inclusive learning and working environment.

The Board discussed several key items, including initiatives to enhance school-area traffic safety for students, and heard delegations regarding the Program Strategy Review and the equity of access in specialized programs. Trustees engaged in a review of the Program Committee's guiding principles and amendments. The Board also approved the Binbrook II Boundary Review, which sets the attendance boundary for a new elementary school. Further, the Board moved to request formal provincial-wide consultation regarding potential changes to English Public School Board governance. Additionally, the meeting included updates from the Ontario Public School Boards' Association, Student Trustees, and reports from the Director and the Chair.

The Multi-Year Strategic Plan (2023-2028) for the Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board serves as a comprehensive roadmap, guiding the organization's long-term direction. It is structured around five strategic pillars: upholding human rights, safety, and well-being; providing equitable quality education; collaborating with students, families, and communities; building a sustainable education system; and reinforcing Indigenous educational wellness and reconciliation. The plan details specific goals for improving literacy achievement, numeracy achievement, and future preparedness for every student, and integrates a Human Rights and Equity Action Plan to foster inclusive, anti-racist learning and work environments, aiming to ensure success and well-being for all learners.