St Joseph Catholic School

Register for Black Youth in STEM Spring Workshops

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 17:30:00 GMT

Join an out-of-school virtual club where Black-identifying youths engage in at-home STEM activities in a Black-positive and student-centred learning environment. All workshops are held on a Sunday afternoon using the video conferencing platform Zoom.

Available workshops for students according to grade levels:

Junior Scientists - Grades 1 to 4
Unleash your Inner Engineer - Grades 5 to 8

Workshops begin on Sunday, March 6, 2022. Sign up and register at connections.compbrainregistration.com

All DCDSB Schools Closed on Dec. 23, 2022 due to Weather

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 19:00:00 GMT

December 22, 2022

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The health and safety of Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) students and staff is our highest priority. A major winter storm is expected in Durham Region later today that is anticipated to cause dangerous driving conditions, bus cancellations, possible power outages and dangerous winds on Friday, December 23, 2022.

Considering this information and the safety of students and staff, DCDSB has made the proactive decision to close all schools and offices on Friday, December 23, 2022.

It is never an easy decision to close our schools, and we know the weather can be unpredictable. The decision to pre-emptively close schools tomorrow, based on the weather forecast will provide additional time for families to make childcare or other necessary arrangements as early as possible.

Staff have been advised to send home students’ personal items at dismissal today.

Optional learning activities for students are available through Edsby and can be accessed when a student logs into their Edsby account. Students can also visit TVO Learn and IDÉLLO apprendre à la maison, for those who wish to access additional educational resources developed by Ontario certified teachers.?

We pray for everyone who may be impacted by the storm and wish all our DCDSB families a safe and Merry Christmas. We look forward to welcoming students back to school on Monday, January 9, 2023.

Yours in faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

Letter to Parents and Guardians - Preparing for All Scenarios

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 23:30:00 GMT

December 17, 2020

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As we prepare for the start of Christmas holidays, I want to thank you for your continued support and commitment to adhering to public health and safety measures that have ensured schools remain a safe place for our students and staff.

We recognize now more than ever, what a true gift it is to participate in Advent activities in our schools and parishes. Our schools and classrooms continue to offer opportunities to celebrate our Catholic faith through charitable campaigns, virtual reflections and classroom prayers, as we focus on this very special time of our liturgical year.

Looking ahead, we encourage families to remain vigilant during the holidays by following public health advice in order to make the return to school in January 2021 as safe as possible. By adhering to public health measures in our communities, we can all have a safe and relaxing holiday season. You can check the government’s holiday web page for more direct and up-to-date guidance on how individuals and families can plan for a safe holiday season, including suggestions for holiday activities for children and families.

Self-Screening
As a reminder, anyone feeling ill should not attend school. All children, students, staff, and visitors must be screened for symptoms of illness every day before attending school or child care. To help meet this requirement, you may use either the provincial COVID-19 school screening tool.

Self-screening will still be a requirement when we return to school and we will continue to reinforce masking and hand hygiene as well as cohorting and physical distancing with students and staff.

We encourage you to visit Ontario.ca/covidresponse to learn what public health measures are in place in our community – but also please be aware that these could change depending on the most current public health advice.

Preparing for all scenarios
Yesterday, the Ministry of Education advised Ontario school boards to prepare for all possible scenarios following Christmas break. Thus, students currently attending in-school classes are being encouraged to take home any materials they may require for remote learning (including personal belongings). Our goal is to return to in-school classes in January, however we will continue to follow recommendations as outlined by the Ministry of Education and local public health authorities.

If a move to remote learning does occur over the holidays, communications will be sent to families with students attending in-school classes advising them to access their classes and teachers online via Edsby.

In closing, I want to extended my heartfelt thanks to our students, families, staff, clergy, parish communities and community partners for your cooperation and collaboration this past year. I know this Christmas will be different, but I wish you a joyous holiday filled with love, peace and hope.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

Parent Letter from Durham Region Health Department

Fri, 07 Jan 2022 17:00:00 GMT

We are forwarding the following letter on behalf of the Durham Region Health Department.

January 7, 2022

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Vaccines are an important protection measure against the rapidly spreading Omicron variant. Therefore, Durham community immunization clinics will be available with extended hours as of mid-January. In addition, a new clinic location will be opening on January 11, 2022 at the Oshawa Centre on the lower level of the former Sears. This new location will increase access to COVID-19 vaccines for Durham residents including children, youth and school staff.

We strongly encourage Durham residents to obtain first, second or third doses based on their eligibility. Due to high demand for third doses, there is a limited supply of the adult/youth Pfizer vaccine in Canada. The limited supply is being reserved for 12 – 29 year olds. Both Pfizer and Moderna (mRNA vaccines) provide strong protection against COVID-19 and its variants. Either mRNA vaccine can be given as a third dose regardless of which COVID-19 vaccine was used for first or second dose. The best vaccine for your booster dose is the vaccine that is available first.

Community immunization clinics are not accepting walk-ins at this time. Book an appointment by visiting durham.ca/VaccineAppointments. New vaccine appointment spots are being added regularly. We continue to explore additional opportunities for vaccination clinics for our school populations and will communicate this once they are confirmed. Please check our website often for updates.

Appointments are available in the next two weeks at Durham Region community immunization clinics, at select pharmacies and health care providers in Durham Region and at the Provincial GO-VAXX mobile clinics.

For more information, please visit durham.ca/covidvaccines.

Sincerely,

Durham Region Health Department

Msgr. Paul Dwyer CHS's Grade 8 Information Session

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 15:00:00 GMT

Families of Grade 8 students are invited to watch Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School’s presentation on transitioning to secondary school. Learn what makes Dwyer a great school.

You are also encouraged to join Dwyer’s Guidance department and Administrative staff for a Virtual Question and Answer session on one of the following dates:

Jan 18, 2021 at 3:00 p.m.
Jan 19, 2021 at 3:00 p.m.
Jan 20, 2021 at 3:00 p.m.
Jan 21, 2021 at 3:00 p.m.

Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89101527909?pwd=ZXAyZCtnVGZOaVVWcHluUktyeHp6Zz09

Meeting ID: 891 0152 7909

Passcode: 123

DCDSB News: April 2023

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 20:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

The April 2023 issue of the DCDSB News is now available! Please click here to view the newsletter.

This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what's happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

Holy Week Message from the Chair of the Board and Director of Education
Faith

Installation of Archbishop Francis Leo
DCPIC Lenten Family Activities

Indigenous Education

St. Christopher Catholic School Learning with Lorrie Gallant

Durham Catholic Children's Foundation

9th Annual Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation Gala
8th Annual #ForeTheKids Golf Classic

DCDSB Updates

Kindergarten Registration is Now Open!

DCDSB Students

Student Spotlight - Isaac M.
St. Theresa Catholic School Wellness Fair

Mental Health and Well-Being

Mental Health and Well-Being Series: For Parents, Guardians and Caregivers

Adult and Continuing Education

Elementary Summer School Programs
Secondary Summer School Programs

Upcoming Events, recognition days and more.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Minister of Education Letter

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 20:30:00 GMT

See attached letter from the Minister of Education regarding the June 19, 2020 Announcement. The letter is available in English and French at www.ontario.ca/page/letter-ontarios-parents-minister-education

International Languages Program

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 14:45:00 GMT

Registration is now open for the International Languages program!

The International Languages program offered through Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre is designed for students from Year 1 Kindergarten (Junior Kindergarten) to Grade 12 and adult learners. The programs provide students with the opportunity to speak, listen, write, and read in an international language and to learn about the culture and heritage associated with that language.

Elementary International Languages Classes

This program is offered on Saturday mornings from 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and runs from September 21, 2024 – June 14, 2025. Students must be in Year 1 Kindergarten (Junior Kindergarten) to Grade 8 to participate in this program. For more information and to register, please visit our website.

French Classes for Junior Kindergarten – Grade 3 Students

Students who are currently enrolled in Year 1 Kindergarten (Junior Kindergarten) to Grade 3 are invited to register for French language classes. These classes are offered at either St. Mary Catholic Secondary School in Pickering or All Saints Catholic Secondary School in Whitby. The classes are offered on Saturday mornings from 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and runs from September 21, 2024 – June 14, 2025. For more information and to register, please visit our website.

Secondary International Languages Classes

DCDSB secondary students and adult learners who are interested in taking an international language credit course are invited to register for the International Languages program offered through Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre. The courses will start run from September 21, 2024 – June 14, 2025. For more information and to register, please visit our website.

EQAO (Grades 3, 6, 9 and OSSLT) Assessments Cancelled

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 14:15:00 GMT

On March 17, 2020 the Ministry of Education announced they are cancelling all EQAO assessments for Grades 3, 6, 9 and OSSLT for this school year. For students who are graduating this school year, the literacy graduation requirement as set out in Ontario Schools, Kindergarten to Grade 12: Policy and Program Requirements, 2016 will be waived.

Students who are not graduating this school year will have the opportunity to write the OSSLT in the upcoming 2020-2021 school year.

June is Dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 13:15:00 GMT

June is dedicated to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. Our Catholic learning community is invited to reflect on the profound and consoling meaning of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in our lives and walk of faith. The Sacred Heart of Jesus is a symbol that helps us dive more deeply into the personal love that Jesus has for each one of us. The heart is often considered the universal sign of love and there is no greater love than that which Jesus has given to each one of us. The Most Reverend Francis Leo asks that we reflect on how can we imitate that love not only in the month of June but every day throughout the year?

The Sacred Heart of Jesus reminds us of our call to sacrificial, unconditional and generous love for others, for each member of the Body of Christ and the call for us to be the heart, the hands and the face of Christ to all those we encounter each day.

For resources, including prayers, reflections and activities, please visit archtoronto.org.

Apply Online for the Regional Arts and Media Program

Mon, 27 Nov 2017 17:15:00 GMT

Students currently in Grades 6, 7, and 8 are invited to apply to the Regional Arts and Media Program that is opening at All Saints Catholic Secondary School in September 2018. Program majors include: Dance, Dramatic Arts, Instrumental Music, Media Arts, Visual Arts and Vocal Music.

There is a $35.00 non-refundable administrative fee per each Arts and Media Program you are applying to. These fees will be used to support the audition process. Online applications for the program close on Wednesday, December 20, 2018. Apply online, by clicking here.

Auditions will be held:

January 27-28, 2018;
February 3, 2018; and
February 11, 2018.

To help students prepare for the audition, we have posted information, rubrics and tips on dcdsb.ca/amp.

Pop Tab Collection Contest

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 16:00:00 GMT

The Durham Regional Police Children’s Games, along with Durham Catholic District School Boards Anti-Black Racism and Black Excellence Advisory Committee, are inviting elementary and secondary classes from across our learning community to participate in a Pop Tab Collection Contest.

Pop tabs are made from aluminum and can be redeemed for money. All funds raised as a result of the contest will support the purchase of a wheelchair for a student who has outgrown his current one.

The class that collects the most tabs wins a pizza party!

Key Contest Dates:

Contest starts – Monday, October 2, 2023
Contest ends – Friday, October 20, 2023
Pop tabs collected from participating classes – between Tuesday, October 24 and Friday, October 27
Winning classroom(s) will be announced on Friday, November 3, 2023

Get collecting and good luck!

Parent Resource - Child/Student with Symptoms of COVID-19

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 21:30:00 GMT

The Durham Region Health Department has provided the following resource for parents and guardians below

Parent Resource - Child/Student with COVID-19 Symptoms

Register for the Community Run for Hope

Wed, 02 May 2018 15:45:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board’s Catholic Children’s Foundation is hosting its annual Community Run for Hope on Sunday, May 27, 2018.

Families are encourage to participate in the 2.5 km/5 km run/walk to raise funds for Durham families in need and student bursaries.

This year’s event will take place at:
Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School
700 Stevenson Road North, Oshawa

Time: Run/Walk will official begin at 1:30 p.m.

This family event also features:

Music;
Photo booth;
Face Painting;
Ice Cream Truck; and
Food Truck.

The cost is $10 per individual or $20 per family. Register online at https://www.durhamcatholicfoundation.ca/en/run-for-hope.aspx

All are welcome to participate.

COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics for Children 5-11 years old

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 15:00:00 GMT

January 19, 2022

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The Durham Region Health Department is offering the following upcoming COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics for children age 5 – 11 years of age.

PA Day – Friday January 21

This Friday, January 21, 2022 is a Elementary PA day for some of our school boards. There are additional vaccine appointments available for kids 5 – 11 years old to obtain their COVID-19 vaccine at community immunization clinics including Ajax, Whitby and Oshawa. For details about all clinic locations, dates and times, please visit durham.ca/covidvaccines

Kids Special Event Day

A fun and exciting special event day is being planned on Friday, January 21, 2022 at the Oshawa community immunization clinic. Join the excitement and book an appointment for your 5 – 11 year old child to get their COVID-19 vaccine. Book an appointment today at durham.ca/vaccineappointment

Community Immunization Clinics

If you are looking for a COVID-19 vaccine appointment for your 5 – 11 year old child, many appointments are available at one of the Durham Region Health Department’s community immunization clinics during the month of January. To book, visit durham.ca/vaccineappointment

Clinics in Area High Schools

The Durham Region Health Department will be hosting COVID-19 immunization clinics for children 5 – 11 years old at area high schools at the end of January and beginning of February. These clinics are by appointment and can be booked at durham.ca/vaccineappointment.

The dates and locations of the clinics are as follows:

Sunday, January 23:

Ajax High School, Ajax 9:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Dunbarton High School, Pickering 9:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Sunday, January 30:

École Secondaire Catholique Saint-Charles-Garnier, Whitby 9:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
G.L. Roberts Collegiate and Vocational Institute, Oshawa 9:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
St. Stephen Catholic Secondary School, Bowmanville 9:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Sunday, February 6:

Uxbridge Secondary School, Uxbridge 9:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Brock High School, Cannington 9:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Port Perry High School, Port Perry 9:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Walk-ins permitted from 4:15 p.m. to 6:15 p.m.

Sincerely,

Durham Region Public Health

Nov. 18 - Grade 1 French Immersion Parent Information Session

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 17:30:00 GMT

We welcome all students into our Grade 1 French Immersion program at schools across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

You are invited to enrol your child through our online registration process at dcdsb.ca from December 7, 2020 to January 15, 2021. Students must be entering Grade 1 in September 2021 to register.

A Virtual Parent Information Session will take place on November, 18, 2020 from 7:00 -8:00 p.m. for all interested families in order to learn more about the French Immersion Program.

A list of Frequently Asked Questions relating to the French Immersion Program and registration process can be found here. Should you have additional questions, please forward them by email to FrenchPrograms@dcdsb.ca so that they can be addressed in the presentation. Please share these questions no later than November 16, 2020. A live Question and Answer period will also be included in the presentation that evening.

To join the information session on November 18, please use the following Live Microsoft Teams Event link: Grade One French Immersion Registration Parent Session

Opening Doors to Opportunities!

2024-2025 Distinguished Catholic Volunteer Awards

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 13:00:00 GMT

Congratulations to the 2024-2025 Distinguished Catholic Volunteer Award recipients. We love our volunteers! Thank you to the dedicated volunteers who contribute to the success of our schools and committees each and every day.

Each year the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee and the Durham Catholic District School Board come together in April to celebrate and thank our volunteers for their countless hours helping our schools, fundraising and/or participating in board-wide committees.

We are honoured to present the 2024-2025 Distinguished Catholic Volunteer Award recipients below.

Distinguished Catholic Volunteers for Ajax Schools:

Kelvin Biney, Archbishop Denis O’Connor Catholic High School
Ana Ramos, Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School
Allison Odorico, St. André Bessette Catholic School
Nicole Gilmour, St. Bernadette Catholic School
Tharshika Kuruparpan, St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School
Lacey Mangos, St. Francis de Sales Catholic School
Shannon Kettle, St. James Catholic School
Kerry Rojas, St. Josephine Bakhita Catholic School
Rose De Mel, St. Jude Catholic School
Sophia Chow St. Patrick Catholic School
Liliana Arangio, St. Teresa of Calcutta Catholic School

Distinguished Catholic Volunteers for Northern Schools (Beaverton, Port Perry, Uxbridge):

Kyla Brennan, Good Shepherd Catholic School
Samantha O'Connor and Kim Schiafone, Holy Family Catholic School
Jessica Small, St. Joseph Catholic School (Uxbridge)

Distinguished Catholic Volunteers for Oshawa Schools:

Annette Eldridge, Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School
Nicole Zara, Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School
Bob Giulietti, Monsignor Philip Coffey Catholic School
Nicole Scovino, Sir Albert Love Catholic School
Laurie Kryshka, St. Anne Catholic School
Manuela Cameron, St. Christopher Catholic School
Meagan Shorts, St. Hedwig Catholic School
Dana Cayer, St. John XXIII Catholic School
Melissa Hardy, St. John Bosco Catholic School
David Lockie, St. Joseph Catholic School (Oshawa)
Gary Metcalfe, St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School
Carrie Fisher, St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School

Distinguished Catholic Volunteers for Pickering Schools:

Todd Idenouye, St. Mary Catholic Secondary School
Robyn Gibb, Father Fénelon Catholic School
Amanda Scott, St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School
Kathryn Meloche, St. Isaac Jogues Catholic School
Louisa Bunclark, St. Monica Catholic School
Paula Thomas and Jennette Lobban, St. Wilfrid Catholic School

Distinguished Catholic Volunteers for Whitby Schools:

Laura Recine, All Saints Catholic Secondary School
Roger Bryce, Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School
Zeina Saikali, St. Bernard Catholic School
Cyndi Pelech, St. Bridget Catholic School
Geraldine Sullivan, St. John Paul II Catholic School
Belinda King, St. John the Evangelist Catholic School
Rachelle Zamora, St. Leo Catholic School
Theresa Santaguida, St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic School
Tina Giacchetta-Quijada, St. Marguerite d’Youville Catholic School
Andrea White, St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic School
Nancy Ruscica, St. Matthew the Evangelist Catholic School
Laura Ore, St. Paul Catholic School
Crystal Arruda, St. Theresa Catholic School

More information about the Distinguished Catholic Volunteer Awards can be found on the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee website.

DCDSB News - November 2024

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 17:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

The November 2024 issue of the DCDSB News is now available. This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what's happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

Remembrance Day and Indigenous Veterans Day
- Honouring our Veterans: A DCDSB Community Tribute
Faith
- Friars Student Writing Contest
- ShareLife School Poster Contest
Indigenous Education in Action
- Treaties Recognition Week
- All Saints Catholic Secondary School Students Explore the Land
DCDSB Updates
- 2024-2025 Student Achievement Plan
- French Immersion Registration is open November 27
- Regional Arts & Media Program Registration Deadline
- Submit Nominations for December Beacons of Hope
Parent, Guardian and Caregiver Resources
- Structured Literacy: A Guide for Parents
- Math Resources for Families
Mental Health and Well-Being
- Recognizing When Your Child is Struggling with their Mental Health
DCDSB Students
- DCDSB Student Highlights
- Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School Participates in Special Olympics
- ShareLife Fundraising
Continuing Education
- Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre Graduation

Upcoming Events

Sincerely,
Durham Catholic District School Board

DCDSB News: September 2022

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Our September 2022 DCDSB News is now available! Please click here to view the newsletter.

This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what's happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

Faith: Prayer for the School Year; Sacramental Preparation and Youth Ministries; and 2022 OCSTA Short Video Contest for Students.
Indigenous Education: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
DCDSB Updates: Registration Now Open for International Languages Classes; DCDSB KinderClub; Right to Disconnect; and COVID-19 Updates.
DCDSB Students: Student Spotlight – Nicole P.
Mental Health and Well-Being: Supporting a Mentally Healthy Return to School for Your Child.
Continuing Education: Register for Adult Education Programs with Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre.
Upcoming Events, Recognition Days and more.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Durham Catholic Children's Foundation 2023 Annual Report

Wed, 01 May 2024 15:00:00 GMT

Dear Partners and Donors,

I am pleased to share the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation 2023 Annual Report. This is an opportunity for us to reflect on the previous year, which was filled with the joy of community. We invite you to view our report that highlights the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation priorities, fundraising initiatives, impact, people, stories, and financials.

We have adopted a stewardship for creation stance and have therefore chosen to reduce our paper consumption wherever possible. The full 2023 Annual Report?is available in a digital format and can be found on our website at durhamcatholicfoundation.ca/annualreport.

The Foundation is blessed to have the unwavering support of DCDSB staff and Foundation volunteers that work diligently and dedicate countless hours to ensure that DCDSB students have access to basic life necessities. Thanks to everyone involved in organizing our special signature events, including the Gala, ForeTheKids Golf Classic, Walk for Hope, and many other local school events that have raised funds for the Foundation.

On behalf of the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation Board of Directors, I extend our deepest gratitude to you, our donors and sponsors for your generosity and your commitment to the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation mission, to bring hope to students in need.

Sincerely,

Bernadette Santiago
Chair, Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation

Parent Information Session for new regional Arts & Media Program

Wed, 31 May 2017 21:45:00 GMT

May 29, 2017

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The Durham Catholic District School Board is excited to introduce a new regional Arts and Media Program to be located at All Saints Catholic Secondary School. The program will serve Grade 7 to 12 students from across Durham region beginning with the initial cohort of Grade 7, 8 and 9 students in September 2018.

The school will offer a dual track system, which means the existing comprehensive Grade 9 to 12 program will continue to run for students who live within the All Saints Catholic Secondary School boundary.

Staff has been working to develop and implement the program which will begin with an application and audition process in December 2017. At this time, we would like to invite families to learn more about the program at an upcoming information session.

Location: All Saints Catholic Secondary School, 3001 Country Lane, Whitby

Date: Wednesday, June 14, 2017

Time: 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.

Staff will provide information about:

the school community;
the new program and how it will run as part of a dual track system;
details about the audition and application process.

Students, parents and guardians who live in Durham Region are welcome to attend and ask questions. Additional sessions will be scheduled in the fall as we prepare to launch the audition and application process. If you require accessible accomodations to participate in this meeting, please contact the school in advance at 905-666-7753.

Sincerely,

Tracy Barill
Superintendent of Education
Teaching and Learning Services Department

DCDSB News - Summer 2024 Issue

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 14:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

The Summer 2024 issue of the DCDSB News is now available! This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what's happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

Durham Catholic District School Board Appoints Gerard Winn as Director of Education
Faith
- Prayer Gardens at St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School
- Unwinding with Prayer: The Ball of Red String
- Afternoon of Sharing and Dialogue at Home-School-Parish Symposium
Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation
- 2024 Walk for Hope
Indigenous Education in Action
- Indigenous Education Highlights
- Indigenous Education and Learning at DCDSB
- Walking Our Path to Reconciliation at St. John Bosco Catholic School
DCDSB Updates
- 2024-2025 School Year Calendars
- DCDSB Achieves 2:1 Student-to-Device Ratio
- External Permanent and LTO Teaching Positions
- DCDSB Certified Canada EcoSchools
- 2024-2025 Budget and Priorities Report
Mental Health and Well-Being
- Summer Resources for Students and Families
- Summer Mental Health Resources
DCDSB Student Spotlight – Gabriel J.
DCDSB Students
- Region of Durham Chair for a Day Contest Winner
- St. John XXIII Catholic School Raises Money for Indigenous Disability Canada
- Social Skills Barbecue
- Grade 3 and 4 Students Visit Canadian Helen Keller Centre
- Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School Shapes Success Through June
- DRPS Junior Detective for a Day
Continuing Education
- 2024-2025 Program Guide Now Available
Upcoming Events
- Local Canada Day Celebrations
- Annual Land Camp for Indigenous Youth hosted by Ontario Tech University
- TD Summer Reading Club at Local Public Libraries
- Honouring Black Heritage – City of Oshawa Centennial Celebration
- Central East Regional Cancer Program – Cancer Screening and Prevention Information

Regional Arts & Media Program Now Accepting Applications

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 20:00:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is now accepting applications to the Regional Arts & Media Program, located at All Saints Catholic Secondary School in Whitby. This program serves students in Grade 7 - 12 and offers additional specialized instruction in the arts or media program area of their choice.

We are excited to invite all Grade 6 and Grade 8 students, who have a passion for the arts, to apply now for a September 2024 start. No prior experience is necessary!

Program areas include Dance, Instrumental Music, Media Arts (Grade 9 entry only), Performing Arts (Drama and Vocal Music), and Visual Arts.

Key Dates:

September 22 – November 27, 2023: Online applications are open
October 17, 2023: AMP Information Session and Open House at All Saints Catholic Secondary School (3001 Country Ln, Whitby)
October 28, 2023: Fall audition workshop C-AMP (registration required – no cost)
January 13-14, 2024: Auditions

All Saints Catholic Secondary School is a dual track school offering a comprehensive Grade 9 - 12 program for students who live within the school boundary, alongside the students in the Grade 7 - 12 Regional Arts & Media Program.

As part of the DCDSB’s commitment to equity, we are not charging an audition fee for applications received for a September 2024 start in the program.

To learn more, and to apply online, visit amp.dcdsb.ca. If you know any friends or family that also might be interested in applying, please feel free to pass along this information.

Register for Grade 1 French Immersion

Mon, 09 Dec 2019 20:00:00 GMT

Register for Grade 1 French Immersion

You are invited to enrol your child into the French Immersion program at schools across the Durham Catholic District School Board. Online registration opens December 9, 2019 to January 17, 2020.

Students entering Grade 1 in September 2020 are eligible to register. Visit your school website or dcdsb.ca and click on the French Immersion banner to register.

Opening Doors to Opportunities!

Now Available - Winter Issue of DCPIC Newsletter

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 18:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The latest issue of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee's (DCPIC) newsletter is now available.

This issue of the newsletter includes:

A message from the Chair;
Lenten calendar and activities;
Parenting During COVID-19 – Taking Care of Your Own Mental Health;
An invitation to a workshop with Asante Haughton; and
Dates for upcoming DCPIC meetings.

For more information about the committee, visit dcpic.ca or email chair@dcpic.ca.

Yours in faith,

Melissa Bevan,
Chair of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee

Raising Awareness About Concussions in Sports

Wed, 25 Sep 2019 15:30:00 GMT

In honour of the memory of Rowan Stringer, “Rowan’s Law Day” is commemorated on September 25 to raise awareness about concussions in sports. While the effects of a concussion are usually short-term, a concussion can lead to long-lasting symptoms and long-term effects.

Learn to recognize the signs of concussions in others – signs and symptoms of a concussion can included:

Headache;
Dizziness;
ringing in the ears;
memory loss;
nausea;
light sensitivity;
drowsiness; and
depression.

To learn more visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/rowans-law-concussion-safety

DCPIC Fall 2021 Newsletter

Wed, 24 Nov 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The latest issue of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee's (DCPIC) newsletter is now available.

This issue of the newsletter includes:

A message from the Chair;
Advent activities;
Details on the 2021 DCPIC Commissioning;
Information about Sacramental Preparation and Youth Ministries;
ShareLife School Poster Contest;
Dates for upcoming DCPIC meetings.

For more information about the committee, visit dcpic.ca or email chair@dcpic.ca.

Yours in Faith,

Melissa Bevan,
Chair of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee

DCDSB Recognizes 2022 Distinguished Catholic Alumni Award Recipients

Tue, 10 May 2022 20:00:00 GMT

On Friday, May 6, 2022, the Durham Catholic District School Board recognized seven graduates at the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation virtual gala. A graduate from each Durham Catholic secondary school received the Distinguished Catholic Alumni Award.

“Our Distinguished Catholic Alumni recipients are exemplary role models of the Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations. Each has a story of inspiration that our current students can look up to; and a source of inspiration,” said Tracy Barill, Director of Education. “This speaks volumes to the value of Catholic education in Durham Region and Ontario.”

Congratulations to the 2022 Durham Catholic Distinguished Alumni Award recipients:

Andrea Brazil, Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School
Madelyn Chung, All Saints Catholic Secondary School
Sam Demma, St. Mary Catholic Secondary School
Aubrey Noronha, Archbishop Denis O’Connor Catholic High School
Stephanie Paglia, Father Leo. J. Austin Catholic Secondary School
Dayne St. Clair, Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School
Dr. Rebecca Wray, Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School

Visit dcdsb.ca to learn more about the award recipients and to read their bios.

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DCDSB Ventilation Measures Report

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 14:00:00 GMT

Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is optimizing air quality in schools through improved ventilation and filtration. Ventilation measures include increasing the flow of outdoor/fresh air for diluting the concentration of any infectious particles. Filtration measures involve the use of different types of fibrous media designed to remove particles from the airstream.

DCDSB Ventilation Strategy includes:

We are using MERV-13 graded filters on mechanical systems and changing them a minimum of three times each school year.
We have increased outdoor air flow rates to further increase fresh air being supplied to buildings.
We are operating ventilaton systems prior and post occupancy to maximize ventilation and efficiency.
We have placed HEPA units in all elementary and secondary classrooms, as well as main offices, libraries, gymnasiums, cafeterias and some other general gathering spaces within schools.
1,160 standalone HEPA filter units have been deployed to schools.

Please click here to access the DCDSB Ventilation Measures Report

Please note: When viewing this document you must select your school from the "School Name" dropdown list on the School Dashboard tab.

DCDSB News - March 2024

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 20:15:00 GMT

The March 2024 DCDSB News is now available! This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what’s happening across the DCDSB.

This newsletter includes:

Living in Faith:

Lenten Resources
Exploring Lent and the Significance of the Cross with Grade 6 Students at St. Bridget Catholic School

Indigenous Education in Action:

Indigenous Education Highlights

DCDSB Updates:

Durham Catholic District School Board Director of Education Announces Retirement
10^th Annual Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation Gala
Reminder: Kindergarten Registration
DCDSB PA Day Rescheduled to April 8, 2024
Stand Up to Bullying Week Art Contest
Equity Invitational Learning Series – Session 3 – Save-the-Date
Awards Season at the Durham Catholic District School Board!

Mental Health and Well-Being:

Be You, Be Well: A Black Mental Health Day Event
DCDSB Let’s Talk Day
Understanding Your Adolescent – Parent/Guardian Information Workshop

Student Spotlight – Jesse D.
Student Spotlight – Tarie
DCDSB Students:

Black History Month Highlights
Global News Feature on DCDSB Project SEARCH
Celebrating Catholic Graduate Expectations at St. Joseph Catholic School
Centre for Success Media Arts Projects

Continuing Education:

Summer School Registration – Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre

Looking Ahead:

DRPS Gowns for Grad and Suits for Youth

Upcoming Events

Spots Still Available for Summer Languages Programs

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 15:00:00 GMT

The Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre is offering a wide selection of 27 International and Heritage Language courses for elementary students currently enrolled in Kindergarten to Grade 8. These classes run daily from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and are free of charge.

Elementary International Languages Program (Session 1: July 2 – July 25 and/or Session 2: July 28 – August 15)

In addition, students in Kindergarten to Grade 3 are invited to register for French language classes this summer. The cost is $190 for Session 1 and $140 for Session 2.

French for Kindergarten to Grade 3 (Session 1: July 2 – July 25 or Session 2: July 28 – August 15)

For information or questions, please contact il@dcdsb.ca

Welding Workshop for Grade 8 Girls

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 18:45:00 GMT

Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is pleased to offer a new Welding Workshop for Grade 8 Girls. Open to females currently in Grade 8, along with a family member (parent, guardian, caregiver etc.), this workshop will introduce participants to the world of welding.

Students and family members can expect to engage in safety discussions, shop demonstrations and practical exercises as they learn to use basic hand tools and practice gas and shielded metal arc welding techniques. They will also have the opportunity to create take-home projects over the course of the session.

Thanks to generous funding from the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program, the Welding Workshop is being offered free of charge.

There are two sessions currently scheduled at two different school locations. Each session has six student spaces available per location. Please note that students and their family member must be able to attend all dates in each session to register. Participants must also wear long pants and closed-toe shoes.

October Session

Locations:

St. Mary Catholic Secondary School., Pickering
Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School, Whitby

Time: 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Dates:

Wednesday, October 11, 2023
Wednesday, October 18, 2023
Wednesday, October 25, 2023

November Session

Locations:

St. Mary Catholic Secondary School, Pickering
Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School, Whitby

Time: 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Dates:

Wednesday, November 1, 2023
Wednesday, November 8, 2023
Wednesday, November 15, 2023

To register, please complete the online form, which will remain open until Thursday, October 5. Spots are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, and a family member is required to attend all three sessions with their student.

Note: This program was created in alignment with the Ontario Human Rights Code (Section 14, Part 2), which allows the creation of programs to address discrimination experienced by historically disadvantaged and marginalized groups, and to remedy disproportionate outcomes.

Please contact Claudine Longo, DCDSB Pathways Coordinator, if you have any questions.

Passing of Pope Benedict XVI

Sat, 31 Dec 2022 14:15:00 GMT

As a Catholic school community, we are mourning the loss of Pope Benedict XVI. We thank him for leading the Church, his years of service and faithfulness. As a theologian, he provided profound insights into our faith and teachings.

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and all the souls of the faithfully departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
~Amen

Lest We Forget

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 13:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians, and Caregivers:

As a nation, throughout the month of November we pause to pay our respects to the over 2.3 million Canadians who have served our country, and continue to serve, in times of war, conflict and peace. Next week on Indigenous Veterans Day and Remembrance Day we will honour all those who fought for Canada in the First World War (1914-1918), Second World War (1939-1945), Korean War (1950-1953), and all who have served since then.

Indigenous Veterans Day, which we acknowledge on Wednesday, November 8, is an opportunity to remember the distinct contributions and dedication of Indigenous soldiers, many of whom did not receive the same recognition or treatment as other Canadian Veterans upon returning home. As we continue our journey towards reconciliation, we must remember and honour the impact Indigenous Veterans made, and continue to make, across generations. We invite you to learn more about Indigenous veterans.

Remembrance Day is recognized on November 11. This year, it falls on a Saturday. Services will take place in our schools on Friday, November 10; however, families are encouraged to take time on Remembrance Day to show gratitude and respect for all Veterans who lost their lives while fighting to protect the freedoms and privileges we enjoy today. Let us never forget the sacrifices they made and the importance of keeping their legacies alive.

Now, more than ever, we invite our Durham Catholic students, staff, and families to join us in praying for peace in our communities and around the world.

Lest we forget.

Yours in Faith,

Monique Forster Tracy Barill
Chair of the Board Director of Education

2024-2025 School Year Calendar Survey

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 14:15:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) invites parents, guardians and caregivers to provide their input on the 2024-2025 school year calendar. If you would like to submit your preference regarding the options provided, we invite you to do so by completing this brief survey.

Please click here to complete the 2024-2025 school year survey.

The survey will close at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, January 19, 2024.

We thank you in advance for your input. We will share the finalized 2024-2025 school year calendars with families once they have been approved by the Board of Trustees and Ministry of Education.

Sincerely,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Deadline Expended to Dec. 22 for Regional Arts & Media Program's Online Applications

Wed, 20 Dec 2017 21:00:00 GMT

NEW! DCDSB has extended the deadline for online applications to the Regional Arts & Media Program to Friday, December 22, 2017. Students currently in Grades 6, 7, and 8 are invited to apply to the Regional Arts & Media Program opening at All Saints Catholic Secondary School in September 2018.

Due to the application extension, teachers' referrals will be accepted until Wednesday, January 10, 2017.

Online Application Support

If you require support with your online application, please stop by All Saints Catholic Secondary School (3001 Country Lane, Whitby) on Thursday, December 21, 2017 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. or 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Upon arrive, check in at the school office and ask for Tish Shepherd, Teaching and Learning Consultant.

Now Available DCPIC Newsletter

Thu, 28 Feb 2019 22:30:00 GMT

The latest issue of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee's (DCPIC) newsletter is now available. (See the link below for newsletter) This issue features articles on:

Greetings from the Committee’s Chair;
Highlights from the Math Cafes for Parents; and
Launch of Math@Home Kits.

For more information, visit dcpic.ca

Lenten Message from the Chair of the Board and Director of Education

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 15:30:00 GMT

This year Ash Wednesday, a holy day of prayer and fasting that is recognized by many Christian denominations, falls on February 14, 2024. On this day, members of the Catholic community gather for liturgical celebrations in which they receive ashes, marked on their forehead in the sign of the cross, as a call to repentance and as a reminder of our need for love and forgiveness.

Ash Wednesday is the beginning of the season of Lent. Over the next 40 days, we are called to pray, fast, and be charitable to others as we prepare for the most holy time of the year - Easter. We may consider adding moments of daily reflection, giving up something that takes us away from God, or devoting time to help others. Through these acts, we learn to live more like God, and to better reflect God’s likeness in the world around us.

In his message for Lent 2024, Pope Francis invites the faithful to “slow down and pause” for prayer and to assist our brothers and sisters in need, in order to change our own lives and the lives of our communities. Pope Francis said, “In the presence of God, we become brothers and sisters, more sensitive to one another: in place of threats and enemies, we discover companions and fellow travelers.” His Holiness encourages every Christian community to “let others see joyful faces, catch the scent of freedom and experience the love that makes all things new, beginning with the smallest and those nearest to us.”

Pope Francis’ messaging connects to our 2023-2024 spiritual theme, Speaking with the Heart. We are invited to continue to reflect on what it means to communicate “according to God's style”, welcoming encounters with others as “heart speaks to heart.”

The Lenten journey provides an opportunity for us to nurture our faith and live a more Christ-filled life. On behalf of the Durham Catholic District School Board, we wish you a blessed Lenten season.

Yours in Faith,

Monique Forster Tracy Barill
Chair of the Board Director of Education

DCDSB Indigenous Education Newsletter - We Walk the Path Together

Wed, 06 Nov 2019 21:00:00 GMT

The Indigenous Education Advisory Circle (IEAC) meets regularly to help the Durham Catholic District School Board build relationships and understand the needs of the community. We walk the path together on a journey of reconciliation to support staff, students and community members in this significant work.

This issue of We Walk the Path Together - Indigenous Education Newsletter includes:

November 4-8 is Treaties Recognition Week;
Elder Tony Bomberry speaks to Students about Residential Schools;
Remembering and Honouring Residential School Survivors;
Learning about Indigenous Culture at St. Mary Catholic Secondary School; and
Meet DCDSB's Student Indigenous Advisory Circle.

To learn more about Indigenous Education at the Durham Catholic District School Board, visit dcdsb.ca/IndigenousEducation.

Share Your Thoughts on Our Multi-Year Plan Implementation

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 13:00:00 GMT

Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is committed to open and ongoing engagement with students, staff, families, and community partners. We are in the second year of implementing our multi-year plan, Inspire 2026, and we want to hear your thoughts and suggestions on implementation and what we should consider for future planning.

The strategic priorities identified in Inspire 2026, are to:

Support Faith and Well-Being;
Advance Human Rights and Equity; and
Improve Student Learning.

All students, staff, families, and community members are invited to participate in a brief survey, which asks:

What do you think is going well in terms of the implementation of our multi-year plan, Inspire 2026, and what suggestions do you have for our future planning?

Please click here to participate in this survey.

Feedback received from the survey will help to monitor and inform the implementation and monitoring process of our new multi-year plan. The survey will remain open until Friday, October 18, 2024.

We ask that participants be respectful when participating, to lend to thoughtful and open discussions about our whole board. Please do not include ideas/comments that name or refer to individual students or staff or specific situations.

Parent Engagement Event - "Living With Hearing Loss: Come to be Inspired and Learn about Resources and Services to support Your Child"

Fri, 26 Jan 2018 15:15:00 GMT

Join us for an evening of information sharing with inspirational speakers living with hearing loss, including a community partner outlining services.

Peter Stelmacovich, Director of Pediatric Sales for Phonak Canada is a successful professional living with hearing loss who will share his journey through life, as well as his keen interest in technology and advocacy for people with hearing loss.

The Canadian Hearing Society will provide information about resources and products they offer individuals with hearing loss. Q & A with our speakers

(Students from grades 4-12 are invited to attend this session with a parent/guardian.)

Thursday, February 15, 2018

6:30- 8:30 p.m.

Durham District School Board Education Centre

400 Taunton Road East, Whitby ON L1R 2K6

Room 2007 (2^nd Floor)

Please RSVP by Feb 8^th to:

Sarah McAvoy, Hearing Services Resource Teacher
Durham Catholic District School Board
Tel: 905-576-6150 ext. 22148

DCDSB 2022-2023 School Year Calendars

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 12:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The 2022-2023 school year calendars have now been approved by the Ministry of Education.

The first day of school for both elementary and secondary students will be Tuesday, September 6, 2022.

Please click here to view the 2022-2023 School Year Calendars which can be found on our website.

Please note that the Christmas holidays will take place from December 26, 2022 – January 6, 2023. March Break in the next school year will take place from March 10 – 17, 2023.

We want to thank all staff, families and community members who participated in the school calendar consultations. Your feedback provided valuable input into the creation of these school year calendars.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Giving Tuesday in Support of the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 21:00:00 GMT

Giving Tuesday
In support of the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation

This Giving Tuesday, we are encouraging families to help make a difference right here in our own Durham Catholic learning community.

Giving Tuesday takes place around the world on Tuesday, November 28, 2023. We are encouraging students and families to donate through School Cash Online (Giving Tuesday Campaign). Through your generosity, we can help students reach their full potential by ensuring they have access to essentials such as food, clothing and shelter. Donations received will have a direct impact on the lives of our students to ensure they can participate fully in all aspects of school life, including field trips and extracurricular activities with their peers. Additionally, we reserve emergency response funds for the students and families in need.

Join us in making a difference in the lives of Durham Catholic District School Board students.

Your Impact

When you donate to the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation, you are helping students reach their full potential by ensuring they have access to everyday essentials such as food, shelter, lights and heat in their homes and much more. Join us in making a difference in the lives of Durham Catholic District School Board students.

“The sole income earner in the family had a heart attack and was unable to provide for the family due to self-employment. Through the Foundation, we were able to assist with the necessities.”
– Principal, Pickering

“Our family has been reduced to a single income household. There are times when we don’t know how we’ll make it to the end of the week or month. Electricity and water bills have gone unpaid and are in a threatening position of being shut off. I am grateful and appreciative for your support.”
– Parent, Oshawa

“Through the Foundation, we were able to help a family who have two children that are seeking medical support from Sick Kids. One child needs to attend Sick Kids five times per week which is costly. Our school wishes the family our prayers and some financial support through these difficult times.”
– Principal, Whitby

About the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation

The Durham Catholic Children's Foundation was established to ensure that students are able to attend school with the basic daily necessities of life provided. Through our signature fundraising events and donor contributions, the Foundation enables a formal mechanism for coordinating charitable initiatives and raising funds to support student participation in all aspects of school life.

With recommendations from the Durham Catholic District School Board and its communities, the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation contributes to student well-being and achievement by providing basic needs to the most vulnerable children and families in Durham Region, enabling them to work towards reaching their full potential.

To learn more about the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation, please visit our website: www.durhamcatholicfoundation.ca.

Foundation's Virtual Christmas Auction now Open

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 15:00:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation is hosting a Virtual Christmas Auction starting today, November 28 to December 2, 2022. This is a great opportunity to get that perfect Christmas present for a loved one. Please visit www.dccfauction.ca to see a full listing of available items. We have incredible donations from the Oshawa Generals, the Toronto Zoo, Reptilia, the National Ballet of Canada and much, much more! Most items will be available for pick up at the Board office throughout December. All proceeds will go directly to students and families in need, throughout Durham Region.

To stay up to date, please follow @dcchildrensfoundation on Instagram and @DC_ChildrensFdn on Twitter. You can also subscribe to the Foundation's News webpage to receive the latest information on events and ways to give.

For more information, please email info@durhamcatholicfoundation.ca.

Upcoming COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 17:00:00 GMT

The Health Department is offering additional opportunities for residents to obtain a COVID-19 vaccine at immunization clinics that will occur at select schools across Durham Region. These clinics are being held after school hours and during March break. The clinics are open to all eligible residents, including children 5 – 11 years old and youth/adults 12 years of age and older for first, second or booster doses. The clinics will be walk-in only and no appointments are required.

Thursday, February 24, 2022 at Stephen G. Saywell Public School, Oshawa
4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Tuesday, March 1, 2022 at McCaskill’s Mills Public School, Cannington
4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Thursday, March 3, 2022 at Charles Bowman Public School, Bowmanville
4:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Tuesday, March 8, 2022 at St. Jude Catholic School, Ajax
4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Tuesday, March 15, 2022 at Da Vinci Public School, Ajax
10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (March break)
Wednesday, March 16, 2022 at Sunset Heights Public School, Oshawa
10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (March break)
Thursday, March 17, 2022 at St. Monica Catholic School, Pickering
10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (March break)

The Health Department continues to offer community immunization clinics with extended hours for families. These clinics welcome walk-ins and booked appointments. Information about clinic locations, dates and times is located on the clinic calendar. COVID-19 vaccinations are also available at some pharmacies, select health care providers and at Provincial GO-VAXX mobile clinics.

To learn more, we invite you to our website www.durham.ca/covidvaccines

DCPIC's Math Caf� for Parents

Thu, 02 Nov 2017 16:00:00 GMT

Parents and guardians are invited to come and learn to love Math at the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee's (DCPIC) Math Café. This hands-on workshop will allow parents to learn some tried and tested strategies that they can use to support their children's mathematical progress at home.

The focus of the workshop is on elementary math concepts, but DCDSB's Mathematics Consultants, Michael Jacob and Dan Allen will branch out into some secondary concepts as well. Parents and guardians will engage in some fun math activities during the session - no previous experience necessary!

Join us for the DCPIC Math Café for Parents on:

Wednesday, November 22, 2017
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Durham Catholic District School Board's Pope Francis Centre
652 Rossland Road, West, Oshawa

Pre-registration is required as limited seating is available. Register by click here.

Inspiring Change at WE Day Toronto 2019

Fri, 20 Sep 2019 14:30:00 GMT

WE Day 2019 saw almost 20,000 youth and their educators fill the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto to listen to world-renowned speakers and performers who shared their stories of inspiration and change. The goal of WE Day is to inspire students to become leaders of change and to transform communities and changed lives.

Our Durham Catholic students and staff participated in the annual WE Day, on Thursday, September 19, 2019. Each of our schools took on both local and global service projects during the 2018-2019 school year in order to qualify for these coveted tickets.

We can’t wait to see what further action they will take on this year, during our board’s Year of Hope.

June's Issue of Celebrating Student Success Newsletter is Now Available

Thu, 06 Jun 2019 21:00:00 GMT

Read the latest issue of our Celebrating Student Success newsletter.

This issue features articles on:

Year of Joy –All Saints Catholic Secondary Students Win Numerous Catholic Women’s League Awards;
Experiential Learning – Msgr. Paul Dwyer Catholic High School Hosts Multicultural Luncheon;
Inspiring Future Engineers and Leaders at the Annual Future City Competition;
Great Teamwork builds St. Francis de Sales Catholic School’s Garden;
TedXStMary Inspires Students;
DCDSB hosts EcoSchools Summit;
DCDSB’s Showcase of the Arts Wows Audiences;
Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School’s Table Tennis Club build an Inclusive Environment for Students;
Experiential Learning Opportunity helps Grade 8 Students transition to Archbishop Denis O’Connor Catholic High School;
Expanding Pathways – Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School Students attend OYAP Symposium;
Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary Student Employed after Completion of OYAP Level One;
Strong Girls…Strong World Event Inspires Students to Pursue Careers in the Trades;
Student Achievement – Father Leo. J. Austin Catholic Secondary Student Wins Golds at Skills Canada and Skills Ontario Competitions;
Archbishop Denis O’Connor Catholic High School Students Cram a Cruiser;
Durham Catholic Students Compete at Special Olympics;
St. Mary Catholic Secondary School Students Compete at the Ontario Skills Competition;
St. James Catholic School Wins First Place at Elementary Orienteering Meet;
Upcoming Events – Register Today for Summer School.

Stay connected and sign up to receive the newsletter directly in your inbox.

Provide input into DCDSB's Budget Process

Wed, 08 Mar 2017 21:00:00 GMT

As part of the Durham Catholic District School Board’s budget process, our Finance Committee is seeking your input on the upcoming 2017-2018 school year. The committee is inviting feedback in the following areas:

Essential supports and services to be sustained;
Areas in need of additional supports;
Areas to consider for budget savings; and
Other comments or suggestions.

You are welcome to attend a public forum by providing comments in person to the Finance Committee on April 3, 2017. The meeting will be held at the Catholic Education Centre, 650 Rossland Road West in Oshawa beginning at 7:00 p.m.

If you prefer to share your ideas in writing, we invite you to complete the Stakeholder Input Form and deliver it to:

Durham Catholic District School Board
650 Rossland Road West
Oshawa, ON L1J 7C4
Attention: Business Services

Or submit your input by emailing Budget Consultation or call 905-576-6707 ext. 22300 and leave a message.

For more information, visit our website.

Health Department Town Hall on COVID-19 Vaccine for Children ages 5-11

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 14:00:00 GMT

November 30, 2021

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The Durham Region Health Department is hosting a virtual Town Hall this Thursday, December 2. This is an opportunity for parents and guardians of children ages 5 – 11 to get information about the pediatric COVID-19 Pfizer vaccine and have their questions answered by a panel of local medical and health care professionals. Participants will be able to obtain first-hand information about local children’s COVID-19 immunization clinics and participate in a question-and-answer session with the panel.

What: Virtual Town Hall for parents/guardians on COVID-19 vaccine for children 5 to 11 years old

When: Thursday, December 2, 2021 – 8:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Where: Join online at durham.ca/DurhamHealthTownhall

Why: An opportunity for parents to discuss questions and concerns regarding the pediatric COVID-19 Pfizer (Comirnaty) vaccine.

Questions can be submitted before the Town Hall by email: healthtownhall@durham.ca

Please see the attached poster for more details.

You are invite to join the Durham Region Health Department to learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine!

Visit our webpages for general information, resources, tools to prepare your child for vaccination, and the children community clinics schedule:

COVID-19 vaccination for children 5-11
durham.ca/covidvaccines#Children-5-11
Community Clinics Calendar for Children ages 5-11
durham.ca/ChildrensClinics/

Board-wide Pink Shirts now On Sale

Mon, 07 Jan 2019 18:45:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Each year, the Durham Catholic District School Board celebrates National Pink Shirt Day as part of our Stand Up to Bullying activities during the last week of February. On February 27, 2019 every member of our Board is encouraged to wear something pink to show that we are all working together to prevent bullying in our schools, in our communities and online. Pink Shirt Day began in 2009 in Nova Scotia when two high school students decided to take a stand against bullying in their own school by wearing pink shirts in support of a student who was bullied for wearing a pink shirt to school.

This year, the Durham Catholic District School Board asked students across the Board to submit designs for our Board-wide pink shirt. The slogan and graphic had to focus on a positive action that is supportive of bullying prevention. There were many fantastic entries. The winning design was designed by a Grade 5 student at St. Theresa Catholic School in Whitby.

If you would like to order one of our Board pink t-shirts, please go to the following website https://phoenix.gearware.com/Shop/Associations.aspx. All orders must be submitted by January 23, 2019. The short turnaround time is needed in order to ensure that we have the shirts delivered to all our schools before February 27. This is not a fundraising opportunity (the shirt is being provided to us at cost - $13.25 each, tax included).

DCDSB News: April 2022

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 17:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Our April 2022 DCDSB News is now available! Please click here to view the newsletter.

Our April newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what's happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

Message from the Chair of the Board of Trustees and Director of Education.
DCDSB Updates: Stand Up, Be Counted, Be Heard Student Census; Catholic Education Week and Child and Youth Mental Health Week; Navigating Kindergarten; Catch Up on School Based Vaccines for Grade 7 to 12 Students; Join the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation Board of Directors; The Importance of Accurate Catholic Voter Lists; How to Become a Catholic School Board Trustee; Share your Thoughts on DCDSB's 2022-2023 Budget.
DCDSB Students: Student Spotlight - Stephen P., Durham Catholic Virtual Elementary School (DCVES) and Nicholas S. from All Saints Catholic Secondary School; Co-operative Education Placement: Cedrick from Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School; DCDSB Student Performs Solo with Durham Youth Orchestra.
Mental Health and Well-Being: School Mental Health Ontario: Side by Side - A Message to Parents and Caregivers.
Continuing Education: Summer School Programs for Elementary Students – Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre.
Faith: Easter Prayer; Lenten Calendars; Resurrection Garden Activity.
Indigenous Education: Indigenous Education - Art Sharing; Aki Aadiziwin - Water Teachings; Honouring Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples Gathering.
Upcoming Events, Recognition Days and more.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

October 24 is Dress Purple in Recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month

Mon, 23 Oct 2017 15:45:00 GMT

On Tuesday, October 24 everyone is invited to DRESS PURPLE in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Durham Catholic District School Board has partnered with Durham Children's Aid Society to build awareness and support for Chilld Abuse Prevention Month. Students and staff are encouraged to wear purple and share their stories and photographs on social media, using the hashtag #IBreaktheSilence on October 24.

Preview the Stand Up, Be Counted, Be Heard Student Census Questions

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 16:15:00 GMT

April 4, 2022

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The Durham Catholic District School Board is inviting students in Grades 4 to 12 to complete the Stand Up, Be Counted, Be Heard Student Census from April 25-29, 2022. The voluntary census is an opportunity for students in Grades 4-12 to share their voices and impact change.

Parents and guardians of students in Grades 4 to 8 will receive an email with a unique link to the census to complete at home with your child(ren) or on behalf of your child(ren).

The census questions are available to view in advance at dcdsb.ca/studentcensus. As with all voluntary surveys, students, parents and guardians can skip any questions they are not comfortable answering. However, the more responses we receive, the more effective the data will be in helping to inform and improve learning environments, courses, supports and teaching practices.

Watch our video featuring DCDSB parents sharing why they feel completing the student census is important.

If you have concerns about your child’s participation, please call the school’s office and ask to speak with me or email studentcensus@dcdsb.ca.

You're Invited to a 50th Anniversary Family Picnic and Outdoor Mass

Fri, 12 Apr 2019 16:15:00 GMT

In honour of our board’s 50th anniversary, past and present students, families, staff, retirees, and partners of the Durham Catholic District School Board are invited to attend our Family Picnic and Outdoor Mass on Sunday, June 2 at Lakeview Park Oshawa.

The fun-filled day begins at:

• 11:00 a.m. - Outdoor Mass celebrated by Father Keith Wallace;

• 12:00 – 3:00 p.m. - Games, activities, performances by students and staff on the stage, a tearoom and vendors/displays.

Food will be available for purchase from vendors at the park, or you can bring a picnic lunch. For planning purposes, we are asking guests to RSVP at https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/dcdsb-50th-anniversary-picnic-registration-59170484512

We look forward to seeing you as we celebrate 50 years of Catholic Education.

Deadline to Apply to Arts & Media Program is December 20, 2017

Thu, 14 Dec 2017 20:00:00 GMT

Students currently in Grade 6, 7, and 8 are invited to applying to the Regional Arts and Media Program opening at All Saints Catholic Secondary School in September 2018. Visit dcdsb.ca/amp to apply and for audition requirements. The deadline to apply is Wednesday, December 20, 2017.

The program majors offered include:

Dance;
Dramatic Arts;
Instrumental Music;
Media Arts;
Visual Arts; and
Vocal Music.

All students who apply will be granted an audition. Check us out!

Nominations Now Open for Distinguished Catholic Alumni Award and Rev. John Markle Home-School Communications Award

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 20:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

It’s awards season at the Durham Catholic District School Board!

We are inviting our Durham Catholic learning community to submit nominations for the Distinguished Catholic Alumni Award and the Reverend John Markle Home-School Communications Award.

The Distinguished Catholic Alumni Award recognizes former students of the Durham Catholic District School Board who have achieved significant success in their chosen pathway. Through their pursuit of personal excellence, these individuals have made a positive contribution to their communities and represent the image of the Catholic learner as outlined in the Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations. Nominations are open until Thursday, March 7, 2024, at 4:30 p.m. For further details and to submit a nomination please visit our website.

As a board we believe in the foundational partnerships between home, school and parish. Communication is essential to keeping these relationships strong, which is why each year the Board of Trustees sponsors the Reverend John Markle Home-School Communications Award to recognize excellence in Elementary and Secondary School Communications. Nominations are open until Friday, March 22, 2024, at 4:30 p.m. For further details and to submit a nomination please visit our website.

We appreciate your consideration for these awards.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Graduation Item Pick-Up and Technology Return Information

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 18:30:00 GMT

Dear Students and Families,

As we are nearing the end of the 2020-2021 school year, we want to share important details regarding the pick-up of graduation items for Grade 8 students, and the return of any loaned technology to the school.

Graduation Item Pick-Up
Each Grade 8 student will receive a graduation lawn sign that they may wish to display. Graduation lawn signs and gift bags can be picked up from St. Joseph Catholic School on Thursday, June 24 between 7:30pm-9:00pm. Please arrive at Graduation items pick-up at the south side of the school throughout the Kiss n' Ride loop. Parking for photos along Grand Ridge Dr. and in the NW bus loop.

Technology Return Information
For students who received loaned technology from the board/school in the 2020-2021 school year, we would ask that you return these items on Wednesday, June 30 at 9:00am-3:00pm. As a friendly reminder, please bring all power cords and accessories that were provided along with the device(s). Please note that assistive technology will not be collected and stay with students during the summer.

COVID-19 Health and Safety Protocols
We ask that one family member arrive at the school. Please ensure you complete the Ministry of Health COVID-19 self-assessment prior to attending the pick-up/drop-off and do not come if you answer “yes” to any of the questions or common symptoms of COVID-19. In addition, we kindly ask for your cooperation in keeping a physical distance of 6 feet between each other at all times.

Virtual Graduation Ceremony
Graduating Grade 8 students and their families are welcome to join us on Thursday, June 24 at 6:00pm. Please use the link here for the graduation ceremony.

We wish you all the best for the remainder of the 2020-2021 school year, and for a happy, healthy and safe summer.

Register for Awareness Forum on Human Trafficking

Thu, 15 Nov 2018 14:00:00 GMT

Parents and guardians are invited to an awareness forum by the Durham Regional Police Department on Teenage Human Trafficking in Durham Region.

Due to the sensitive nature of information being presented, this event is for adults 18 years old or older.

Limited Seating - Reserve a Spot by Calling: 416-928-9622. See flyer for additional information.

DCDSB News: January 2022

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 18:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Our January 2022 DCDSB News is now available! Please click here to view the newsletter.

January’s newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what's happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Complete the Stand Up, Be Counted, Be Heard Student Census Next Week

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 14:00:00 GMT

April 19, 2022

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The Stand Up, Be Counted, Be Heard Student Census is fast approaching! Here are three things you can do by completing the voluntary student census that will help the Durham Catholic District School Board:

Stand up to shift change in the right direction.
Be counted by answering questions about your identity, ability, race, culture, and gender.
Be heard by voicing your opinions and ensuring that your identity is represented now and in the future of the Durham Catholic District School Board.

For more information about the student census, visit dcdsb.ca/studentcensus. Parents and guardians will receive a letter with details on how to access the online survey later this week.

Durham Catholic Children's Foundation Dart Tournament

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 17:30:00 GMT

We are excited to announce the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation 1st Annual Dart Tournament! Funds raised will go to the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing hope to the students of the Durham Catholic District School Board through fundraising efforts and your support.

Please see below for the event details:

Date: Saturday, February 8, 2025
Time: Social: 6:00 – 6:45 p.m., and play will take place from 7:00 – 11:00 p.m.
Location: Canadian Corps Association, Oshawa (2nd Floor), located at 142 Athol St. E. Oshawa.
Cost: $105 ($35 per player) for a team of 3 players. Note: must have a team of three (3) to enter. Teams must provide their own darts.
Registration: Click here to register.

To learn more and to register for the 1^st Annual Dart Tournament, please visit durhamcatholicfoundation.ca/darttournament. Please share this information with your families, friends and networks – all are welcome!

DCDSB News - June 2025

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The June 2025 issue of the DCDSB News is now available. This newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what’s happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

Faith
- June is Dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus
- Novena to the Holy Spirit
- DCDSB Jubilee Cross at Holy Family Catholic School
Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation
- 10th Annual #ForeTheKids Golf Classic
DCDSB Updates
- Register for CABS Summer STEM Camp!
- Durham Catholic District School Board Recognizes the 2024-2025 Distinguished Catholic Leader
- Good Shepherd Catholic School Celebrates 25 Years of Catholic Education
- Leading Through Legacy: A Tribute to Black Excellence
Indigenous Education
- June is National Indigenous History Month
- A Day of Learning with Niigaan Sinclair
Celebrating Excellence
Mental Health and Well-Being
- BWell Student Mental Health and Well-Being Leadership Team Year-End Celebration
- DCDSB Secondary Students Champion Mental Health Initiatives at Durham TAMI Summit
Continuing Education
- Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre Now an Approved Canadian Red Cross Training Partner
- Spots Still Available for Summer Languages Programs!
Events
- Pride Month
- Community Connections: A Dialogue on diversity, equity and inclusion
- Looking Ahead

Sincerely,

Durham Catholic District School Board

Tour our New Oshawa Continuing Education Location

Mon, 21 Aug 2017 14:45:00 GMT

This summer our Oshawa Campus of the Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre moved to its new location at 850 King Street West, Unit 26, Oshawa, ON. The new location offers better access to public transportation, more classrooms and the state of the art technology.

We invite you to visit our new location during our Open House on Thursday, September 7 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. or 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Take a tour or register for one of our fall courses. All are welcome to attend.

For more information, visit us at www.con-ed.ca.

Award Winning Adult Education Programs available at Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 19:00:00 GMT

Congratulations to DCDSB's Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre for winning the 2020 Diamond Awards for the Ajax/Pickering and Oshawa/Whitby Readers' Choice Awards for Best Adult Education. The Centre also won the Gold Award for Best Learning Centre from the Clarington voters.

If you are 18 years of age and older and looking to earn your high school diploma, upgrade your skills or want to enrol in our Adult Education Programs, visit our website at con-ed.ca. We offer Adult Day Credit classes, Night School, Summer School, eLearning, Correspondence Courses, English as a Second Language (ESL) and Adult Upgrading. We also offer Employment Training Programs including Personal Support Worker Accreditation, Child Care Assistant and Custodial Services Certificates.

All of our programs offer flexible learning options to empower you to succeed!

Grade 8 Student & Parent Information Night & Tour - January 18, 2018

Wed, 10 Jan 2018 21:30:00 GMT

Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School welcomes Grade 8 students who will be attending Dwyer in September 2018 and their parents/guardians to join us on Thursday, January 18 at 7:00 p.m.

Guidance will present an overview of the registration process and how to select courses for Grade 9.

Additional information is also available regarding a variety of programs at Monsignor Paul Dwyer CHS, such as Ultimate Potential (UP) Math, Advanced Placement courses, Specialist High Skills Majors (SHSM), Cooperative Education and Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program.

Students and parents will also have the opportunity to visit different departments around the school to learn more about the various compulsory and elective (e.g., Arts, Business, and Technology) courses offered.

Students from our associate DCDSB elementary schools and from other local elementary schools are invited to attend. Our Guidance Team will be available to discuss the registration process for students who do not currently attend Father Joseph Venini, Good Shepherd, St. Joseph, Sir Albert Love, St. Christopher, St. John Bosco and St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic Schools.

Event registration for this evening is not required! Please contact our school’s Guidance Department at 905-723-5255 ext. 2 for more information.

For additional resources on how to prepare for Grade 9 visit our website at:

COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 17:30:00 GMT

The following information is from the Durham Region Health Department regarding upcoming COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics for children ages 5-11.

COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics in Area High Schools

The Health Department is hosting COVID-19 immunization clinics for children 5 – 11 years old at area high schools. These clinics are by appointment and can be booked at durham.ca/vaccineappointment.

The dates and locations of upcoming clinics include:

Sunday, January 30:

École Secondaire Catholique Saint-Charles-Garnier, Whitby 9:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
G.L. Roberts Collegiate and Vocational Institute, Oshawa 9:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
St. Stephen Catholic Secondar School, Bowmanville 9:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Sunday, February 6:

Uxbridge Secondary School, Uxbridge 9:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Brock High School, Cannington 9:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Port Perry High School, Port Perry 9:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Walk-ins are permitted at the above weekend high school clinics from 4:15 p.m. to 6:15 p.m.

Monday, February 7:

Clarington Central Secondary School, Bowmanville 4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Registration for the Saturday International Languages Program

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 13:15:00 GMT

Registration Continuously Open for Elementary International Languages Classes

The International Languages program offered through Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre is designed for students from Year 1 Kindergarten/Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8. The programs provide students with the opportunity to speak, listen, write and read in an international language and to learn about the culture and heritage associated with that language.

Elementary International Languages Classes

This program is offered on Saturday mornings from 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and runs from September 24, 2022 – June 10, 2023. Students must be in Year 1 Kindergarten/Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8 to participate in this program. The registrations for this program are continuously accepted. For more information and to register, please visit our website.

French Classes for Junior Kindergarten – Grade 3 Students

Students who are currently enrolled in Year 1 Kindergarten/Junior Kindergarten to Grade 3 are invited to register for French language classes. These classes are offered at either St. Mary Catholic Secondary School in Pickering or All Saints Catholic Secondary School in Whitby on Saturday mornings from 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. The new French classes in 2023 are currently open for registrations and run from January 14, 2023 – June 10, 2023. For more information and to register, please visit our website.

Nominate a school for outstanding communications

Tue, 21 Mar 2017 13:30:00 GMT

Nominations are being accepted for the Reverend John Markle Home-School Communications Award

Is your school advancing communications?

Our Durham Catholic schools are committed to the Board's strategic goal of Advancing Communications by delivering timely, effective and open communication with the most appropriate tools and technology available. A selection committee is accepting nominations from parents and guardians who believe their school has done an outstanding job in communicating with families over the 2016-2017 school year. One elementary and one secondary school will be selected to receive the award at the May 23, 2017 Board Meeting.

How to nominate a school

Submit a short paragraph (maximum 150 words) describing how your school demonstrates excellence in the area of home-school communications. Your submission should demonstrate your appreciation for one or more of the following:

Newsletters provide relevant information in a format that is easy to read and stay up to date with current news and events.
School website is updated regularly with informative and meaningful content.
Social media posts include relevant and interesting information for followers.
Synervoice is used appropriately and effectively to notify parents of important notices.
Board information is distributed in a timely manner.
- Photos or web links to show samples of outstanding home-school communications can be attached with the submission.

Submissions can be sent by email indicating Rev. John Markle Award in the subject line to communications@dcdsb.ca or delivered in a sealed envelope addressed to:

Communications - Rev. John Markle Award
Durham Catholic District School Board
650 Rossland Rd. West, Oshawa, ON L1J 7C4

Selection Committee

The winning schools will be selected by a committee consisting of one Trustee representative and two Student Trustees.

Deadline

Deadline for submissions is 5:00 p.m.on March 23, 2017.

DCDSB Class Placements and Timetables

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 19:00:00 GMT

We look forward to welcoming all students back to school on Tuesday, September 5, 2023!

Tentative class placements and timetables will be available to view on Edsby as of 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 30, 2023. If you need assistance logging in to Edsby, please visit our website for further information.

If you have any questions, please contact the office at your DCDSB home school.

Now available - February's issue of Celebrating Student Success Newsletter

Wed, 13 Feb 2019 22:00:00 GMT

February's issue of DCDSB's Celebrating Student Success newsletter is now available. This issue highlights stories and achievements involving our elementary and secondary students.

Articles include:

Year of Joy - St. Mary Catholic Secondary School Students join GlobalMedic in Packing Family Emergency Kits for Syrian Families;
Mental Health and Wellness - Bell Let's Talk;
Experiential Learning - February is Black History Month;
Congratulations to our Centre for Success Students;
French as a Second Language Students at Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic School talk to Seniors about What Brings them Joy;
Students at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School research the Trades in order to Build Gingerbread Houses;
SHSM Programs offer Student Industry-Recognized Certification and More;
See the World and Earn a Credit;
Expanding Pathways - Welcoming Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program Level 1 Students to their First Day of Classes;
Grade 7 Students Explore the Trades and Career Pathways at St. Mary Catholic Secondary School;
Student Achievement - A Memorable Season for Archbishop Denis O'Connor Catholic High School's Senior Girls Basketball Team;
Introducing Student Representatives on the DCDSB's French as a Second Language Advisory Committee; and
Upcoming Events - Register for the DELF French Proficiency Exam

Join us on Thursday, September 7 - Open House of Archbishop Anthony Meagher Continuing Education Centre

Wed, 06 Sep 2017 20:45:00 GMT

All are welcome to attend an open house and tour of the Archbishop Anthony Meagher Continuing Catholic Education Centre's new Oshawa Campus.

Thursday, September 7, 2017
10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Location: 850 King Street West, Unit 26, Oshawa

DCDSB News: June 2022

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 18:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Our June 2022 DCDSB News is now available! Please click here to view the newsletter.

This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what's happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

DCDSB Updates: 2022-2023 School Year Calendars; Register for Kindergarten; and Lyme Disease Information from Durham Region Health Department.
Faith: Community of Faith – Teen Ranch Retreat and Confirmation at Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School.
DCDSB Students: DCDSB Student Visual Art Exhibit at Pickering Artfest; DCDSB Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program Student Discovery Day at The Miller Group; Foot Loose!; Future City; Trap the Trash Art Challenge at the Toronto Zoo - Life Skills Class, Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School; and Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School UNITY Festival.
Mental Health and Well-Being: Helping Your Child or Teen Manage Digital Technology.
Continuing Education: Summer School Registration is Still Available for Elementary and Secondary Students.
Indigenous Education: Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School: Learning About the Creative Process with Mishiikenh Kwe; June is National Indigenous Peoples Month; DCDSB to Introduce Grade 12 Indigenous Studies Course at All Secondary Schools; and Indigenous Student Success Network Information Session.
Upcoming Events, Recognition Days and more.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

May's Issue of Celebrating Student Success Newsletter

Wed, 08 May 2019 15:30:00 GMT

Read the latest issue of our Celebrating Student Success newsletter.

This issue features articles on:

Year of Service – All Saints Catholic Secondary School performs The Sound of Music to Sold Out Crowds;
Mental Health –May 5 to 11 is Children’s Mental Health Week;
Experiential Learning – Student Summit on Indigenous Education a Huge Success;
Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School Students inspired by Holocaust Survivor, Elly Gotz;
St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School welcomes Seniors to a French Café;
Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic School Students Win the Epic Mac N’ Cheese Competition;
Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School SHSM Students visit the LHEARN Centre at Lakeridge Health;
Expanding Pathways – Discovering an Engineering Pathway at Ontario Tech University’s Automotive Centre of Excellence;
Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School’s SHSM Students participate in Customer Service Training;
Managing Well-Being while Completing a Cooperative Education Placement;
Archbishop Denis O’Connor and Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary Students participate in Taste of the Trades;
Student Achievement – Top 30 Students Compete at Durham Catholic Chess Championship;
Congratulations to the Cast and Crew of Mary Poppins Jr. at St. Josephine Bakhita Catholic School;
Upcoming Events – June 2, 2019 - DCDSB’s 50^th Anniversary Family Picnic

Stay connected and sign up to receive the newsletter directly in your inbox.

March Break Camps for Grade 7 and Grade 8 Students

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 17:15:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is offering two exciting March Break camps for Grade 7 and Grade 8 students: Numeracy Cooking Camp and CABS March Break Sports Camp.

The Numeracy Cooking Camp is available at each DCDSB secondary school through Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre. During this week-long camp (note: the camp runs Tuesday – Friday at the St. Mary Catholic Secondary School location), students will learn the basics of cooking and baking in a safe kitchen environment while utilizing numeracy skills in fractions, measurement and conversions. Families that are interested in this camp are invited to register by filling out the online registration form. Please see the attached poster for more details and contact information.

Please Note: As of January 31, 2025, the CABS March Break Sports Camp is FULL. The DCDSB Coach/Advocate for Black Students (CABS) will be facilitating a March Break Sports Camp. This half-day camp will be offered at Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School (1375 Harwood Ave N, Ajax) during the week of March 10-14, 2025. Students will participate in a variety of recreational activities aimed at enhancing leadership skills, fitness skills, peer relationship skills and community building. Programming will involve a variety of sports and physical activity. Please read the attached poster for more details.

Please note that camp enrolment will be determined on a first-come, first-served basis as space is limited.

Sincerely,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Build a Dream Durham Career Discovery Expo

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 13:00:00 GMT

Build a Dream’s Durham Career Discovery Expo is taking place on Thursday, April 27, 2023, at Deer Creek Golf and Banquet Facility. This event is free for Grade 7-12 female students of Durham Catholic District School Board and one of their parents, guardians, or caregivers to attend. While this event is directed to females, all interested Grade 7-12 students may attend. The event will highlight a variety of career pathways. On Thursday, April 27, 2023, the doors will open at 5:00 p.m., and the event will take place from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

There will be a main stage featuring women who will talk about their career journeys. In addition, companies and organizations will share information on their industries and what they look for in a candidate, along with school board representatives who will discuss programs accessible in high school.

There will also be a tradeshow-style section of the venue where participants can visit exhibitor booths, meet representatives from a variety of career sectors and partake in interactive career exploration activities.

A small meal and swag bag will also be provided and there will be opportunities to win prizes, play games and more!

To register, please visit: www.webuildadream.com/events. Please note that spots are limited, and are offered on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Connecting with our Children and Teens: Promoting Positive Mental Health

Mon, 13 Feb 2017 15:15:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board's Student Services department is hosting a free event for parents and community members.

Connecting with our Children and Teens: Promoting Positive Mental Health

Keynote speaker: Jennifer Kolari, Child and Family Therapist, Founder of Connected Parenting

Using anecdotes and humour, Jennifer Kolari will introduce the audience to Connected Parenting model. Both theory and practice will be explained step-by-step. Participants will leave inspired with practical and useful strategies to try with their children as soon as they get home.

Breakout sessions will be offered by Durham Catholic District School Board Student Services staff and community partners on topics including:

Stress Behaviour vs. Misbehaviour
Understanding and Supporting Your Worried Child
Navigating Relationshiips and Social Situations
Substance Use: What you Need to Know
Helping Your Child Build a Healthy Body Image and Self-Concept
Mindful Parenting
Social Media and Parenting
Parent Resilient Children and Teens

Doors open at 5:15 p.m. for registration and displays

Advance registration is required, click here to register.

Funding graciously provided by our Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) Parent Reaching Out grant.

Durham Catholic District School Board Appoints Gerard Winn as Director of Education

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 01:00:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is pleased to announce the appointment of Gerard Winn as the new Director of Education and Secretary-Treasurer of the Board, effective August 1, 2024. Mr. Winn will replace retiring Director of Education, Tracy Barill.

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I congratulate Mr. Winn on his new appointment,” said Monique Forster, Chair of the Board. “His commitment and dedication to Catholic education, along with his vision for the future of DCDSB, align with the board’s mission. Mr. Winn’s breadth and depth of experience, combined with his deep commitment to equity, will make him an exemplary Director of Education. I look forward to working together as partners in Catholic education as we continue to serve our Durham Catholic learning community.”

As a Catholic educator and leader for over 24 years, Mr. Winn has a wide range of knowledge, experience and expertise to bring to the position. Since joining DCDSB as a Superintendent of Education in 2020, Mr. Winn has overseen many key portfolios including Student Success, Safe and Caring Schools, Academic Services, Crisis/Trauma Response, Alternative Education and Family of Schools. In his current position as Superintendent of Human Resource Services, he oversees equitable hiring processes, disability management, negotiations and collective bargaining, Aspiring Leaders program and staff development.

Prior to joining the DCDSB, Gerard worked at the Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board (PVNCCDSB) where he served in various roles including system principal of Special Education, system principal of eLearning, secondary principal/vice principal, special education consultant, special education resource teacher and elementary classroom teacher.

Mr. Winn holds a Bachelor of Arts from Trent University, a concurrent Bachelor of Education from Trent University/Queen’s University, and a Master of International Education degree from Charles Sturt University. As a life-long learner, his additional certificates include Human Rights Law, Racial Equity Facilitator Training, Human Resources Law for Education Professionals, and Indigenous Canada Education.

Provincially, Mr. Winn is a member of the Board of Directors for the Eastern Ontario Staff Development Network (EOSDN) and co-facilitates Module 4 of their Supervisory Officers Qualification Program.

A faith-filled and active member of his parish, alongside his wife and two teenage daughters, Gerard is committed to Catholic education and nurturing strong relationships between home, school and parish. He believes Catholic education is an opportunity to foster equity for all students.

“I am humbled and honoured to be appointed as the Director of Education and I would like to thank the Board of Trustees for the opportunity to serve the DCDSB in this role. I look forward to collaborating in meaningful ways with the Board of Trustees, senior administration team, staff, students, families, parishes, advisory committees and community partners to support all students in achieving their full potential,” said Gerard Winn. “I am excited to continue the work of our board improvement plan, to advance our strategic priorities of nurturing faith and well-being, advancing human rights and equity and improving student achievement. I look forward to serving the growing Durham Catholic learning community in this new capacity, as we strive to listen, learn and live in faith.”

Durham Catholic District School Board Recognizes the 2023-2024 Distinguished Catholic Leader

Tue, 07 May 2024 14:30:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is pleased to recognize Elementary Principal, Mike Goff, as the recipient of the 2023-2024 Distinguished Catholic Leader Award. The award was announced following a System- Wide Mass on Monday, May 6, 2024, which also recognized Durham Catholic Distinguished Educators from each school and department across the board.

“Mr. Goff has been dedicated to creating a positive and caring learning environment for all students, staff and families he has encountered,” said Tracy Barill, Director of Education. “As a Catholic leader, he has provided exemplary service in ensuring students throughout the system have many extra-curricular opportunities, he has worked diligently to create welcoming spaces, and has gone above and beyond to support students and families in need.”

Mr. Goff has been a valued educator and leader with the Durham Catholic District School Board for 32 years. Mr. Goff grew up in Newfoundland and completed his degree in Physical Education at Brock University, and his teaching degree from Memorial University in Newfoundland. In 1992 he moved to Oshawa and began as a supply teacher with the DCDSB. In his first 21 years, Mr. Goff enjoyed teaching at St. Jude Catholic School, St. Patrick Catholic School and St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic School. During this time, he served as co-chair of the Durham Elementary Catholic Athletic Association for eight years, in which he was presented with the Paul McCallister Award for his dedication and service to Durham Catholic athletics.

In 2014, Mr. Goff began his career as a school administrator, where he was a Vice-Principal at St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic School, St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School, and St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School. He then went on to be a Principal at St. John Bosco Catholic School and Monsignor Philip Coffey Catholic School, where he is currently the proud Principal.

During his time with the DCDSB, Mr. Goff has served on many committees, such as Safe Schools, Literacy Committee, Numeracy Committee, and the Principal and Vice-Principal Mentoring Program. Mr. Goff is proud to have served for 10 years on the Catholic School Principals’ Council of Ontario (CPCO) Executive for Durham Region. Through his work on the CPCO Executive, he has worked with Durham Catholic school administrators and is proud of his work organizing local conferences to bring together principals and vice-principals for professional development opportunities.

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I would like to extend our sincere congratulations to Mr. Goff on receiving the 2024 Distinguished Catholic Leader Award,” said Monique Forster, Chair of the Board. “It is always an honour to be recognized by colleagues. Mr. Goff’s leadership, dedication and commitment to Catholic education is truly worthy of this distinction.”

"I am very honored to have been recognized by my peers to receive this year's Distinguished Catholic Leader Award,” said Mike Goff, Principal at Monsignor Philip Coffey Catholic School. “I believe that our schools are wonderful places where amazing things are being done daily by educators, no matter their role, to help our students feel safe and cared for. I am always amazed at the amount of personal time and resources that our educators sacrifice for the students in their care. I feel very lucky to have worked alongside so many incredible people over the last 32 years. I have come to understand that life is about service and through serving others my life has been filled with joy, and I thank Durham Catholic District School Board for that.”

April's Issue of the Celebrating Student Success Newsletter

Fri, 07 Apr 2017 18:30:00 GMT

Read the latest issue of our Celebrating Student Success newsletter.

This issue features articles on:

Year of Community – One St. Mary Catholic Secondary School Student inspires her School Community to Overcome Obstacles;
DCDSB Partnering with Community Agencies on Youth Suicide Prevention Action Group;
St. Mary Catholic Secondary School Students Participate in Model Parliament Programs;
Supporting Students’ French Language Learning this Summer;
All Saints’ SHSM Students tour the Lakeridge Health Education and Research Network Centre; and
Exploring Pathways through Cooperative Education.

Stay connected and sign up to receive the newsletter directly in your inbox.

Provincial Stay at Home Order Extended and Vaccinations for Students 12-17 years of age

Fri, 14 May 2021 18:30:00 GMT

May 14, 2021

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Yesterday, the Government of Ontario announced that the provincial Stay at Home order and school closures would be extended to June 2, 2021. This decision was made based on the advice of Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health - Click here to read the news release.

Vaccinations for Students Ages 12-17

Starting May 31, 2021, students 12-17 years of age in Ontario and their family members/caregivers will be eligible to receive their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine. In addition to what is already in place, special clinics targeted at providing vaccinations for this group will be established throughout the province during the weeks of June 14 and June 21, 2021. The Government of Ontario has indicated that School Boards will work with Public Health Departments to arrange for administration of the second dose of the vaccine for this group by the end of August 2021.

Our Board will be meeting with the Durham Region Health Department next week to clarify details and will share information in the coming weeks once a plan has been finalized.

We are very pleased with this news and hopeful that it will contribute to as normal a return to school in September as possible. May the love of God and the power of prayer during the Month of Mary bring a sense of peace to you and your family.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

What does Reconciliation look like with Guest Speaker, Niigaan Sinclair

Fri, 13 Oct 2017 15:45:00 GMT

In honour of Indigenous Education month, the Durham Catholic District School Board is hosting guest speaker, Niigaan Sinclair on What does reconciliation look like?

Niigaanwewidam James Sinclair is Anishinaabe (St. Peter’s/Little Peguis) and an Associate Professor at the University of Manitoba. He is an award-winning writer, editor and activist who was named one of Monocle Magazine’s “Canada’s Top 20 Most Influential People” and one of the CBC’s Manitoba’s “Top Forty Under Forty”. He has written national curriculums for Indspire, the Assembly of First Nations and national publishers. He is also a regular commentator on Indigenous issues on CTV, CBC, and APTN, and his written work can be found in the pages of newspapers like The Globe and Mail and online with CBC Books: Canada Writes. His first book on Anishinaabeg literary traditions will be coming out with the University of Minnesota Press in 2018.

Thursday, October 26, 2017

Time:

- 6:30 p.m. – snacks and refreshments

- 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. – Mr. Sinclair’s presentation

Location:
Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School
1375 Harwood Ave., N., Ajax

*Presentation will take place in the school’s theatre. Child minding is available.

Advanced registration is required, click here to register.

Letter to Parents - Assessment, Evaluation and Reporting

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 18:30:00 GMT

April 20, 2020

Dear Durham Catholic families,

Thank you for your continued support as we navigate this journey into distance learning together. We have received additional information from the Ministry of Education regarding assessment, evaluation and reporting that I would like to share with you.

Report Cards

The Ministry of Education has advised that there will be no mid-term report cards with the exception of Mid-term marks for our graduating students. We have developed a Parent’s Guide to Assessment, Evaluation and Reporting through Distance Learning to assist. All students will receive a final report card.

Elementary students will continue to be assessed throughout the remainder of the school year. Teachers will use a variety of approaches to gather evidence of how students are progressing in their learning, and will provide feedback to students.
Secondary students will receive a final report card at the end of the 2019-20 school year. Teachers will continue to assign learning tasks, projects and culminating activities that will be assessed to inform students of their final course marks. Learning skills and work habits will be included on the final report card. There will be no final examinations.

Distance Learning Tips

Learning at home is new for all our students, families and staff. We will continue to support the education needs of your children and to help you we have developed a Parent Guide to Distance Learning and a Parent Guide to DCDSB Special Education Distance Learning. Additional learning resources are also available at Keep Learning (dcdsb.ca/keeplearning).

We have also added new videos to help students and families who are experiencing difficulties with logging into our student LaunchPad Learning Portal and navigating Edsby. Watch these videos by clicking on the student tab at https://www.dcdsb.ca/en/parents/edsby.aspx?_mid_=124978. Additional resources are also available at https://www.edsby.com/help/students/.

Student Code of Conduct

To ensure that our virtual learning environments are safe and accepting for all members of our school community, you are reminded to adhere to the school Code of Conduct. To assist we have created a Code of Conduct for Distance Learning with expectations for creating a safe online learning environment.

During these challenging times, it’s important to practice self-care and well-being. Staying physically active and going for walks can help with your mental health. Establishing a routine that includes regular breaks from learning throughout the day will assist in your child’s physical and emotional well-being. We have added Physical Education resources to our Daily Physical Activity web page (https://www.dcdsb.ca/en/programs-services/daily-physical-activity--dpa-.aspx) that you can access for tips and ideas.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

Now Accepting Nominations for the DCDSB Board Award of Merit

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 15:30:00 GMT

Each year the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) accepts nominations for the Board Award of Merit. This award is open to all members of the community and is presented annually at the May Board of Trustees meeting.

The Board Award of Merit recognizes an individual or group who has made an extraordinary contribution to the cause of Catholic education or who has performed an extraordinary community service outside of their normal work duties.

The person(s) nominated for this award may include a Priest, a member of a religious community, an employee of the Board, a ratepayer, a student, or a Trustee who is, or formerly was, under the jurisdiction of the DCDSB. The person(s) may be nominated by any individual within the broader Catholic community.

If you know a person or group that you feel should be considered for this prestigious award, complete the attached nomination form and email it to May Prabu, Executive Assistant to Gerard Winn Superintendent of Education, Human Resource Services, Durham Catholic District School Board at may.prabu@dcdsb.ca with the subject line “Board Award of Merit 2023 Nomination".

Nominations are open until Monday, March 13, 2023 at 4:00 p.m.

The successful candidate/group and all other nominees will be invited to attend the May 23, 2023 Regular Board meeting for recognition.

For more information, please reference the DCDSB’s Board Award of Merit Policy (PO209).

Feb. 22 - Parent Letter Additional COVID-19 Safety Measures in Schools and Child Care Centres

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 20:45:00 GMT

February 22, 2021

Dear Parents and Guardians,

I want to inform you of recently added COVID-19 safety measures in schools and child cares that are now in effect across Ontario. The new measures build on the existing ones that have been in place since September, and have been added due to the risk of COVID-19 variants.

Parents and guardians have an important role to play in making sure the new measures are followed, and will require us all to be even more diligent. The most significant changes are:

Students and staff with any new or worsening symptom of COVID-19, even those with only one symptom, must stay home, without exemption, until:

The symptomatic individual receives a negative COVID-19 test result, or
The symptomatic individual receives an alternate diagnosis by a health care professional
If there is no test or alternate diagnosis, the symptomatic individual must isolate for 10 days from symptom onset, and all other household members must isolate for 14 days from their last contact with the symptomatic individual.

Asymptomatic household contacts of symptomatic individuals: Quarantine, do not leave home.

All asymptomatic household contacts of symptomatic individuals are required to quarantine, until the symptomatic individual receives a negative COVID-19 test result, or an alternative diagnosis by a health care professional.
If the symptomatic individual does not seek COVID-19 testing they should be treated as if they have COVID-19 and all household contacts must quarantine for 14 days from their last contact with that symptomatic individual.

We ask that you continue to self-monitor your child(ren) for signs and symptoms of COVID-19. This includes completing the daily self-assessment for symptoms before attending school: https://covid-19.ontario.ca/school-screening/

We remain vigilant to protecting the health and safety of our students and staff and continue to work with the Durham Region Health Department to follow the new safety measurements.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

Spots Still Available for Elementary and Secondary Summer Courses and Programs

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 18:30:00 GMT

Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre offers a number of summer courses and programs for students in elementary and secondary school.

Elementary Programs and Courses

Are you a Grade 8 student starting high school in the fall? The Head Start Programis available to all Grade 8 students going into Grade 9 at one of our Durham Catholic District School Board high schools and will run August 19 - 22. The program involves a review of literacy and numeracy skills and provides students with a preview of the Grade 9 curriculum for Mathematics and English. Study skills and health and well-being are also integrated into the program.

In-person camps with a focus on literacy and numeracy are filling quickly, but there are still spots available. Students who are completing Grades 6, 7 or 8 can register for the following camp offerings: CABS Multi-Sports, Digital Literacy, Recreation and Fitness, Summer Arts, and Math. Dates, times, location and registration details for each camp are available on the Continuing Education website (www.con-ed.ca). Camp enrolment is determined on a first-come, first-serve basis.

The Literacy and Math including French Immersion for Grades 6, 7, & 8online summer program is designed for students who would benefit from additional practice and assistance in literacy and/or math to ease their transition into the next grade. Students will participate in engaging lessons to meet their individual needs and learning styles. This program is non-credit and available July 2 – 12 and/or July 15 – 26.

Students who are in Grade 8 and will be attending a DCDSB high school and wish to register for a Grade 9 summer credit can take one high school credit through the Reach Ahead Program (July 3 – 26). Visit our webpage to view course offerings.

Interested in learning another language? Summer Elementary International and Heritage Language classes are for students in JK to Grade 8. There are 24 different languages to choose from! The classes will run from July 2 – July 26 (Session 1) at Archbishop Denis O’Connor CHS (Ajax) and Father Leo J. Austin CSS (Whitby). Session 2 classes will be offered between July 29 – August 16 at Notre Dame CSS (Ajax). Students who are currently enrolled in Kindergarten to Grade 3 are invited to register for French language classes.

Secondary Courses

Parents and students are asked to check out the summer school program offerings and registration details on the Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education website: Summer School Programs

Bell Let's Talk Day: January 25, 2017

Mon, 23 Jan 2017 14:00:00 GMT

Since 2010, Bell has donated almost 80 million dollars to mental health initiatives in Canada, well on their way to their goal of $100 million by 2020. In doing so, they have brought hundreds of thousands of people to the conversation, resulting in reduced stigma and an improved quality of life for people who are living with a mental illness. This year, Bell Let’s Talk Day is being celebrated on January 25, 2017.

This is a good day to acknowledge all of our Durham Catholic schools who are doing wonderful work bringing awareness to the topic of mental health and mental illness. Student-driven campaigns that promote positive mental health and focus on the reduction of stigma are happening in many of our schools.

We hope all staff, students and parents in the Durham Catholic District School Board will join the conversation. On January 25, Bell will donate 5¢ more to mental health initiatives across Canada for every text, call, tweet (#BellLetsTalk), Instagram post, Facebook video view and Snapchat geofilter used. Even if you're not a Bell subscriber, tweeting and sharing of Facebook images will still generate a donation. By having many of us engage in the conversation, we can all help end the stigma associated with mental illness.

June's Issue of Celebrating Student Success Newsletter

Mon, 05 Jun 2017 16:30:00 GMT

Read the latest issue of our Celebrating Student Success newsletter.

This issue features articles on:

Year of Community – Building School Spirit and Community at Archbishop Denis O’Connor Catholic High School;
Mental Health – 2016-2017 Healthy School Award Receipts;
The Future is Now! Maker Philosophy comes to St. Joseph Catholic School, Uxbridge;
St. Mary Catholic Secondary School welcomes Unity to their School for a Day of Art, Creativity and Inspiration;
Durham Catholic Students finish in the Top Three at Battle of the Books;
Record Number of Grade 12 Students Participate in the DELF French Language Proficiency Exam;
5^th Annual TedX Event inspires Students;
Girls in the Trades;
Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School’s SHSM Trip to Ottawa;
Durham Catholic Schools participate at the 28^th Annual Skills Ontario Competition;
Ontario College Dialogues;
St. Leo Catholic School Student selected for the Ministry of Education’s 2017-2018 Student Advisory Council; and
Three Archbishop Denis O’Connor Catholic High School Students recognized at 6^th Annual Creative Minds Youth Contest.

Stay connected and sign up to receive the newsletter directly in your inbox.

October News

Tue, 03 Oct 2017 23:00:00 GMT

St. Joseph Catholic School A Season of Giving...

“That which you do to the least of my brothers, that you do unto me.”

Our school has been brimming with activity during our first month. We have had the chance to set expectations through our Welcome Assembly-introducing our theme of “Year of Service”; practice important aspects of emergency preparedness through our Safe and Caring Schools Week activities; launch our cross country team; form our Catholic School Council; hold our annual Terry Fox School Run event and celebrate the beginning of a new school year at our Meet the Teacher Night Open House. All of this has unfolded over a few short weeks!

I’d like to thank the parents who came forward to serve our school through our Catholic School Council. Our Council was formed at our election meeting Sept. 14th, and the list of our members will be posted on our website (www.dcdsb.ca, select schools, Oshawa, St. Joseph). Meeting dates are always included on our school calendar, so that the work of the Catholic School Council may reach our larger community. All parents are welcome to attend any meeting we hold. The next few meeting dates have been established as follows: October 16th, November 14th, January 24th—7pm in the Library . This year our Catholic School Council have chosen to continue our school fundraiser of selling chocolate bars from mid November to early December (Laura Secord). We will still have a Halloween Dance, admission will be a food donation throughout the month of October.

Our school’s ‘Toonies’ for Terry Fox Day was a great success this year, our community raised $500. The students had the opportunity to name the person(s) they were running for and many chose family members affected by cancer. We are proud to be able to continue the legacy of Terry through the work of our students. Special thanks to Mrs. Accardi for coordinating, and to all the parent volunteers who came to help out with the event.

Our school, along with all other schools in Durham Catholic District School Board, participated in a loose change event for Red Cross Hurricane Relief - we raised $800!

On October 10th, we will come together to celebrate our first school Liturgy of the Word in our gym with Father Eric. The grade 4 students will also have their new bibles blessed at the liturgy. Parents are always welcome to attend any of our school masses, school level liturgies and assemblies. Please join us if you can! Mass/Liturgy will begin at approximately 10:00am.

October is a month for giving thanks for the many blessings in our lives. To that end, we are promoting a Thanksgiving Food Drive Campaign, in support of St. Vincent’s Kitchen/Durham Outlook for the Needy. Please send non-perishable food items to the school if you can. The campaign runs the month of October.

Looking ahead, at the end of the month (Oct. 31st), our classes will participate in our always popular Halloween Dance. Admission will be a food drive item. Costumes are permitted, however, if you choose to wear a costume you must consider the following: no fake blood, no fake weapons and the costume must be appropriate to wear at school. We will also have another Halloween cake walk like last year, if you are able to donate a cake or cupcakes to this event, please let the office know.

Parents, caregivers and visitors to our school are reminded that, like all Ontario schools, after the entry bell rings at 8:30AM, you will find all doors are locked. You must enter through the main front door area of our school.

Wishing you all a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday and peaceful month,

DCDSB Recognizes Truth and Reconciliation Week

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 15:00:00 GMT

From September 23 to September 27, 2024, the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) recognizes Truth and Reconciliation Week. During this significant week students and staff are encouraged to engage in reflection and learning of the history and current realities of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.

Truth and Reconciliation Week takes place the week before the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30. This is a day of solemn reflection and DCDSB school communities will be honouring the children who never returned home from residential schools, and offer thoughts and prayers to the survivors, their families and all those impacted by this painful history. To learn more about Truth and Reconciliation Week, please visit the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation website.

DCDSB prioritizes Indigenous Education across the system and every student and staff member has a commitment to Truth and Reconciliation. The DCDSB community demonstrates this by learning about the impacts of colonization, collaborating with First Nation, Métis and Inuit community and partners, and utilizing holistic approaches to student success.

The DCDSB community will be wearing orange shirts on September 30 to honour the children who did not return home. This day is also Orange Shirt Day to recognize the efforts of Phyllis Webstad, from Stswecem’c Xgat’tem First Nation, who had her new orange shirt taken from her on the first day of residential school in 1973.

This day may be triggering for some students, including First Nation, Métis and Inuit students. Some students may have personally experienced losses like being removed from their homes, communities, or culture due to factors locally or in other areas of the world. Please visit our website for mental health supports and resources for First Nations, Métis and Inuit students, including toll free 24/7 crisis lines and online chats. Additionally, DCDSB has compiled resources for further learning on residential schools in Canada on our website.

Recognizing the truth is a step needed to achieve the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action and we are committed to this learning and walking the path together. For further information, please visit dcdsb.ca/IndigenousEducation.

The Plug Project

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 17:30:00 GMT

The Plug Project provides culturally responsive services for Black youth and families that includes counselling, family supports, health relationships, life-managements and decision making. The project helps Black youth that come into conflict with the education system. The main objective is to connect students who are facing suspension and/or expulsion with:

Information and resources about School Disciplinary processes and the Rights and Responsibilities of students and parents;
Early identification of challenges and intervention by working with Black students and families as well as the school system; and
Provides legal advice, representation and advocacy.

Learn how the Plug Project can help you.

DCDSB News: May 2022

Mon, 09 May 2022 20:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Our May 2022 DCDSB News is now available! Please click here to view the newsletter.

Our May newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what's happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

DCDSB Strategic Planning.
DCDSB Updates: Catholic Education Week and Child and Youth Mental Health Week; Durham Student Transportation Services Updates; Register for Kindergarten; Durham Region Health Department Updates; and School based Vaccine Catch-Up Clinics for Grades 7-12.
Faith: Community of Faith - Personal Hygiene Product Drive at Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School; and Honouring Mary During the Month of May.
DCDSB Students: Student Spotlight - Taleeya W., Grade 12 Student; OYAP Level 1 Hair Program: Cassidy S., St. Mary Catholic Secondary School Student; and All Saints Catholic Secondary School Fundraises Over $56,000 for The Terry Fox Foundation in 2021.
Mental Health and Well-Being: School Mental Health Ontario: By Your Side Video.
Continuing Education: Summer School Registration is Open for Elementary and Secondary Students.
Indigenous Education: DCDSB Indigenous Youth Connecting with Local Artists; Apprenticeship Pathways and Learning on the Land at Good Shepherd Catholic School; and Learning with Community Partners at Good Shepherd Catholic School.
Upcoming Events, Recognition Days and more.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

June 2 - Remote Learning Continues for the Remainder of School Year

Wed, 02 Jun 2021 20:45:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Today the Ontario Government announced that elementary and secondary schools will continue with remote learning for the remainder of the 2020-2021 school year. Click here to view the announcement. As we continue with remote learning, it is important that students remain engaged and actively participate in class discussions.

This news allows for continued focus on COVID-19 vaccinations for students age 12+, family members and educators who want to receive the vaccine, while supporting a safe return to in-person learning in September for the 2021-22 school year. For all those interested in registering for a vaccination appointment, please visit the Durham Region Health Department’s website.

Summer School
DCDSB’s Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre is accepting registrations for summer school. Programs are available for all learners. All classes are conditional upon sufficient enrolment. Visit con-ed.ca for more information.

Mental Health Resources

In the coming weeks, we will be launching a summer Mental Health web page with resources and programs that students and families can access during July and August. Communication will also be shared regarding Mental Health speakers and workshops for families interested in participating.

Thank you for your cooperation during this time. We continue to pray for the health and safety of our school communities.

Yours in Catholic Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

Tomorrow is Dress Purple Day for Child Abuse Prevention Month

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 16:45:00 GMT

Durham Catholic students, families and staff are invited to dress purple tomorrow (Tuesday, October 27, 2020) and share message that promote the prevention of child abuse and neglect.
Join us in letting our children, youth and families known that we are here to help by wearing purple tomorrow.
Share your photos/video on twitter using hashtags #IDressPurpleBecause and DCDSBWellbeing.

March's Issue of Celebrating Student Success Newsletter

Thu, 09 Mar 2017 18:45:00 GMT

Read the latest issue of our Celebrating Student Success newsletter.

This issue features articles on:

Year of Community – Standing Together in the Fight Against Bullying at Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School;
The Mental Health Benefits of Prayer;
Stand Up to Bullying Week;
Bringing the “Spirit of Harriet Tubman” Alive at St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School;
The Future is Now at Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School;
Exploring Math in our Local Community at St. John Bosco Catholic School;
Writing Inspiring Quotes for Black History Month at St. Paul Catholic School;
Walking Together at St. Luke’s to Promote a Positive School Community;
Grade 12 Students are Gaining Level One Apprenticeship Training at Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School;
A New Pathway for Catholic Education at Our Lady Seat of Wisdom;
St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School Student is a Legislative Page at Queen’s Park;
All Saint Catholic Secondary School Student’s Act of Kindness; and
St. Mary Catholic Secondary School’s Summit Leaders Facilitate “Beyond the Hurt” Workshops to Local Catholic Elementary Schools.

Stay connected and sign up to receive the newsletter directly in your inbox.

April 16 - DCPIC Meeting

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 22:45:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee is holding a committee meeting on Thursday, April 16, 2020 at 7:30 p.m.

The Agenda for this meeting is posted on the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee's website at www.dcpic.ca.

In keeping with public health expectations to maintain social distancing for the prevention of COVID-19, this meeting will be open to the public online as a live event. Click here to access the meeting.

DCDSB Announces 2024-2025 Certified Canada EcoSchools

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 14:30:00 GMT

Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is excited to announce the 2024-2025 Certified Canada EcoSchools! As of June 10, 2025, DCDSB celebrates 32 EcoSchools, including 3 Platinum schools, 20 Gold schools, 2 Silver schools, 2 Bronze schools, and 5 participant schools. Special congratulations to St. Bernard Catholic School, St. Joseph Catholic School, and St. Monica Catholic School for certifying Platinum this year. Congratulations to our dedicated students, staff, and community members on your success with the EcoSchools Program, and we look forward to your continued success next year! Visit our website to learn more about DCDSB EcoSchools.

EcoSchools Canada offers a certification program for elementary and secondary schools that helps incentivize, track and reward environmental actions that reduce energy and waste, raise awareness and incorporate environmental learning into the curriculum. Learn more about EcoSchools at https://ecoschools.ca/

Register for Programs with Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 16:15:00 GMT

Registration is open for the following programs at Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre:

Non-Credit Programs:

Elementary International Languages Program for students in Year 1 (Junior Kindergarten) to Grade 8
French for students in Year 1 (Junior Kindergarten) to Grade 3
Red Cross Training – Stay Safe! and Babysitting Training Programs

Secondary Credit Programs:

Night School Courses (Grades 11 & 12)
Secondary Language courses for credit (Grades 9-12)

Our Adult Education sites in Ajax, Whitby and Oshawa offer Adult Credit, Mature Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (mPLAR) and Specialized Training Programs for Pathways to Employment and Post-Secondary Education. Adults who are 18 years of age or older and out of a regular secondary school can register for a variety of programs including:

Adult Day School and Correspondence to earn credits for the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or to upgrade courses for entrance to college, university or apprenticeship;
Adult Dual Credit Program with Durham College;
Adult Upgrading program focused on Literacy and Basic Skills;
Child Care Assistant Training Program;
Custodial Services Training Program;
English as a Second Language courses for adults (non-credit);
Microsoft Office Specialist Training Program;
Personal Support Worker Program;
Work-4-Credits Program (Cooperative Education);
Young Parent School Program at the Rose of Durham (Oshawa)

For more information, check out our Program Guide and visit our website at www.con-ed.ca.

All are welcome!

Schools Closed March 14 to April 5, 2020

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 18:00:00 GMT

March 13, 2020

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Further to yesterday’s direction from the province to close all publicly funded schools in Ontario schools from March 14 to April 5, 2020, the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) continues to review the impact of this decision.

While we continue to work through the operational considerations and impact on families and staff, we have posted a Question and Answer (Q&A) resource on our board website to help keep our communities informed. We will update this information as we receive confirmation and clarification.

We recognize that some children may develop some uncertainty or anxiety with respect to the impact of Covid-19 in the community and around the world. Our Student Services staff has compiled a resource to help alleviate stress. This resource is available at www.dcdsb.ca/covid19.

We appreciate your ongoing patience and understanding as we work through this rapidly evolving, unprecedented event.

DCPIC Parent/Guardian Survey

Mon, 13 May 2024 19:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers.

The Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) is a parent-led advisory committee working within the Durham Catholic District School Board. The committee is conducting a parent/guardian survey that will assist in setting the committee's directions for the 2024-2025 school year.

We want to hear from you!

We welcome input from parents, guardians and caregivers. The survey consists of nine short questions and will take approximately five minutes to complete.

To complete the survey, please click here.

The survey responses will be used to inform our plans for the next school year. Based on last year's survey, the DCPIC held and participated in many events in the 2023-2024 school year, including:

Advent Craft Night
Parent Resource Conference
Welcome to Kindergarten Resource Fair

With your feedback, we can continue to provide families with events and resources throughout the school year.

About DCPIC

The main purpose of the DCPIC is to encourage, support and enhance meaningful parent involvement to improve student academic achievement and well-being. By providing a direct link between parents, Catholic School Councils, the Director of Education and the Board of Trustees, the DCPIC is committed to working in partnership with all stakeholders to promote faith formation and student success in our schools. The DCPIC holds monthly meetings which are open to the public.

To learn more about the DCPIC, please visit dcpic.ca.

Yours in Faith,

Rose LoPresti
Chair, Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee

DCDSB - School Resumes on January 6!

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

Happy New Year!

We hope you had a blessed Christmas filled with joy and time spent with loved ones. We are looking forward to welcoming students and staff back to our schools on Monday, January 6, 2025.

We wanted to share a few updates and reminders with you, ahead of school resuming next week.

Report a Student Absence
If your child is going to be absent, we ask that you notify the school using one of the following methods:

Safe Arrival portal login: go.schoolmessenger.ca
Call the toll-free number: 1-844-288-7628
Report the absence through our smartphone mobile application: SchoolMessenger. Available from the App Store and Google Play Store.

Please click here for more information on SchoolMessenger and for steps on how to create an account.

DSTS – Parent Portal and Inclement Weather Reminders
Durham Student Transportation Services (DSTS) is responsible for ensuring safe and efficient transportation to and from schools for eligible students.

Families are encouraged to create an account for the DSTS Parent Portal, where they can subscribe to receive email alerts for their child(ren)'s bus route(s). Please note that parents and guardians will require their child(ren)'s Ontario Education Number (OEN) to subscribe. Please click here to view information on how to create an account.

Occasionally, transportation is cancelled due to weather conditions. Depending on the location and type of weather occurrence, transportation can be cancelled for a specific zone. Visit the DSTS website to determine your child's weather zone. If you are signed up for the DSTS Parent Portal, you will receive updates on your child’s bus route, including inclement weather cancellations or delays.

For more information on transportation, please visit our website.

DCDSB 2025-2026 Registration Opens January 8
Registration for the 2025-2026 school year opens next week on Wednesday, January 8, 2025. To register your child for school visit dcdsb.ca/register.

DCDSB Calendar
The 2024-2025 DCDSB calendar is available to view and/or download on our website.

Click here and subscribe to receive reminders about holidays, P.A. days, events, and recognition days.

We look forward to seeing our Durham Catholic community on Monday, January 6, 2025, when school resumes.

Sincerely,
Durham Catholic District School Board

DCDSB News - February 2025

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians, and Caregivers:

The February 2025 issue of the DCDSB News is now available! This newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what’s happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

Black History Month
Faith
- Living in Hope - Student Reflection
Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation
- 11th Annual Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation Gala
DCDSB Updates
- Durham Catholic District School Board Named One of Canada’s Best Employers in 2025 by Forbes
- Explore, Play, Grow - Kindergarten Registration is Open at DCDSB!
- New Track and Field at Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School
- Submit Nominations for March Beacons of Hope
Parent, Guardian and Caregiver Resources
- Durham Regional Health Department – Norovirus Information
- Math Made Accessible: Tools for Families of Students with Special Education Needs
- Unnamed Kedron Catholic Elementary School – Upcoming Public Consultation
- Family Literacy Night
- Academy for Student Athlete Development 2025-2026 Applications Now Open!
- Mental Health First Aid – Supporting Youth Virtual Workshop
Indigenous Education
- Indigenous Arts Gala
- Grade 6 Students Welcome Author David A. Robertson
DCDSB Students
- Bishop Nguyen Visits DCDSB Schools in Brooklin
- St. Monica Catholic School Celebrates Family Literacy Day!
- Grade 12 Art Show at Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School
- DCDSB Co-Operative Education – One More Cocoa
- Coding Quest Projects at St. Patrick Catholic School
Mental Health and Well-Being
- BWell – Secondary Student Mental Health and Well-Being Leadership Team
Continuing Education
- Congratulations to the Child Care Assistant Training Program Graduates
Upcoming Events

Sincerely,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Register for Grade 1 French Immersion

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 20:00:00 GMT

We welcome all students into our Grade 1 French Immersion program at select schools across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

You are invited to enrol your child through our online registration process at dcdsb.ca from December 7, 2020 to January 15, 2021. Students must be entering Grade 1 in September 2021 to register.

To learn more about our program and for frequently asked questions, click here.

Special Board Meeting - September 21, 2022

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 21:00:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board is holding a Special Board Meeting on Wednesday, September 21, 2022. The purpose of the meeting is to review the Anti-Racism Policy (PO 200).

The meeting will commence at 7:00 p.m. at 650 Rossland Road West, Oshawa.

The agenda for this meeting will be posted on the Board’s website at dcdsb.ca on Friday, September 16, 2022.

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Register to vote in the 2022 Ontario Municipal and School Board Elections

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 17:15:00 GMT

The upcoming year will be a busy one for Ontario voters, with the Ontario ProvincialElection and Municipal and School Board Elections happening just a few months apart.

Make sure you are on the list to vote in the 2022 Municipal and School Board Elections onOctober 24.

DCDSB Budget Consultation - One Week Left to Share Your Thoughts!

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians:

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) 2025-2026 Budget Consultation survey is open until 4:00 p.m. on March 31, 2025. Share your feedback today!

We invite all parents/guardians, students, employees, and members of the DCDSB community to participate in the budget development process. Please take a few minutes to share your feedback by completing an anonymous survey. The insights gathered will help guide our school and board plans and budget for the 2025-2026 school year.

Click here to complete the 2025-2026 School Year Budget Consultation Survey

Note that the survey will remain open until 4:00 p.m. on Monday, March 31, 2025.

For more information on how the board is funded, the budget development process, timelines, and frequently asked questions, please visit the 2025-2026 Budget Development and Consultation webpage.

We thank you for your time and feedback as we work to develop fiscally responsible school and board budgets that support faith and well-being, advance human rights and equity, and improve student learning.

Sincerely,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Tips on How to Beat the Summer Brain Drain

Mon, 11 Jun 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Tips on how to beat the summer brain drain and keep children engaged in learning, while having fun are available at https://www.dcdsb.ca/en/programs-services/Beat-Summer-Brain-Drain.aspx

Our board also offers a number of summer camps through Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre. For questions about elementary summer programs or to register online (click on the links for each program) or call our Ajax Campus at (905) 683-7713.

Check out a number of these options:

Summer Camps for Literacy and Numeracy for students who have completed Grades 6, 7 and 8
Elementary International Languages
French - Kindergarten to Grade 3 Students
Head Start program for students transitioning to Grade 9 at High School
Summer English as a Second LanguageL & LINC non-credit programs please visit the English as a Second Language pages.

DCDSB Oshawa Program and Boundary Study Approved Recommendations

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 20:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

This letter is to inform you that at the Regular Board Meeting held on June 19, 2023, the Durham Catholic District School Board of Trustees approved the recommended program and boundary revisions as a result of the Oshawa Program and Boundary Study.

Why did the study take place?

The Oshawa Program and Boundary Study was initiated to address potential program and service delivery models at one or more Durham Catholic District School Board schools in Oshawa which are being impacted by the increased growth in north Oshawa, and due to the Ministry of Education announcement in July of 2020 to replace Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School with a Grade 7-12 school.

When did the study take place?

The Oshawa Program and Boundary Study began in June 2022, and over the past year a committee comprised of staff and Catholic School Council representatives consulted with the community in order to bring forth recommendations to the Board of Trustees. The consultation process involved committee meetings along with family and community engagement including four public meetings/open houses, updates via email, the creation of a dedicated webpage, surveys, feedback form/phone line/email address, videos, presentations and more. Through this series of public meetings and various feedback channels, considerations and recommendations were compiled and brought to the June 19, 2023, Regular Board Meeting. We thank everyone for their input and open dialogue throughout the consultation process.

What will the boundary change look like?

September 2023:

Approved boundary change for St. Joseph Catholic School and Sir Albert Love Catholic School that will be applicable to any new registrations (i.e. registering after June 19, 2023) and will take effect beginning in September 2023. A portion of Sir Albert Love Catholic School boundary (Satellite Area) will be directed to St. Joseph Catholic School and a portion of St. Joseph Catholic School enrolment will be directed to Sir Albert Love Catholic School. This boundary change is only in effect for students registering after June 19, 2023. Current students and any students who registered prior to this date will not be impacted. Please see map for details.
Any Year 2 Kindergarten – Grade 8 students registering after June 19, 2023, in the St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School boundary will be redirected to St. John Bosco Catholic School. New French Immersion students (Grade 2-8) will only be admitted where space permits. Current students and any students who registered prior to this date will not be impacted for the 2023-2024 school year.

September 2024:

Beginning with students who are currently in Grade 7 at Sir Albert Love Catholic School, when students graduate from Grade 8 (i.e. beginning in June 2024), they will transition into Grade 9-12 at Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School (note that Sir Albert Love Catholic School currently feeds into Msgr. Paul Dwyer Catholic High School). Please see map for details.

Sir Albert Love will remain a Kindergarten – Grade 8 elementary school, pending a school consultation/survey.

A portion of the English/regular track boundary from St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School will be moved east to St. Hedwig Catholic School. Current students and any students registered for the 2023-2024 school year will not be impacted. This boundary change only applies to new students registering for the 2024-2025 school year. Please see map for details.
St. Christopher Catholic School boundary will be expanded east to take in a portion of both St. Joseph Catholic School and Sir Albert Love Catholic School. Current students and any students registered for the 2023-2024 school year will not be impacted. This boundary change only applies to new students registering for the 2024-2025 school year. Please see map for details.

When the new Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School opens, the following will take effect:

St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School will become a Kindergarten – Grade 6 elementary school. All Grade 7 and 8 students (English and French Immersion) from St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School will be accommodated at the new Msgr. Paul Dwyer Catholic High School. Please see map for details.
St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School will become a Kindergarten – Grade 6 elementary school. All Grade 7 and Grade 8 students (French Immersion) from St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School will be accommodated at the new Msgr. Paul Dwyer Catholic High School. Please see map for details.

Further consultation is required to determine implementation plan for the following:

St. Christopher Catholic School will become an English Kindergarten – Grade 8 elementary school with its existing French Immersion program being re-located to St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School and St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School. Through future consultation, implementation details including date this will take effect, and any potential legacy students (i.e., may allow Grade 7 & 8 students to graduate out, if numbers are viable), will be determined. Consultations will begin in September 2023. Please see map for details.

Transportation

Student transportation will be provided to eligible students in accordance with the Student Transportation Policy PO429. Further details will be shared with families regarding any impacts related to transportation in August 2023 via the Durham Student Transportation Services Parent Portal or 24-hour automated phone line (1-866-908-6578).

To view the full report to the Board of Trustees at the June 19, 2023, Regular Board Meeting, please click here. Updates will continue to be provided to families via SchoolMessenger and on the Oshawa Program and Boundary Study webpage.

If you have questions or comments regarding the Oshawa Program and Boundary Study implementation process or transition process, please complete the feedback form, contact us via phone at 905-576-6150 ext. 42252, or send an email to planning@dcdsb.ca.

Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Sincerely,

Jim Wilson Scott Grieve
Superintendent of Education Superintendent of Business, Finance
Oshawa Family of Schools and Facilities Services

Build a Dream Career Discovery Expo for Grade 7 - 12 Students

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 13:00:00 GMT

On behalf of Build a Dream and in partnership with Durham Catholic District School Board, Grade 7 – 12 students and their families are invited to a free virtual Career Discovery Expo on Tuesday, February 1, 2022 from 6:00 p.m. -8:30 p.m.

This online event will highlight opportunities in a number of careers along with the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP)/Pre-apprenticeship to better assist students to make informed career choices. This event will include information on:

Skilled Trades
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math)
Emergency Responders
Entrepreneurship
Advancing Women

This is an opportunity for families to learn collaboratively about the many careers in these growing sectors. It’s career exploration from the comfort of your home!

The event features:

Pathways Presentation: Discover opportunities you can access in high school
Dream Makers: Hear inspirational women share their career journeys
Industry Secrets: Learn what companies look for & how to get an edge
Breakout rooms, games, prizes!

The first 75 DCDSB students who register will receive a free t-shirt!

For additional information, please contact: info@webuildadream.com

The Robert McLaughlin Gallery Hosts Durham Catholic District School Board Virtual Art Exhibit

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 13:30:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) and The Robert McLaughlin Gallery (RMG) are pleased to announce a virtual art exhibit that will premiere on June 17, 2021 and features student art.

The virtual art exhibition features over 180 pieces of art by students in Kindergarten to Grade 12. Over 40 schools across the DCDSB submitted student work as part of the Virtual Art Exhibit. The work that is shared as part of this exhibit includes sketches, paintings, clay, digital art and more.

The DCDSB has had a long-standing relationship with the RMG. The RMG has hosted an exhibit of DCDSB student art biennially for many years, however, during the COVID-19 pandemic this has not been possible. In March 2021, the RMG and DCDSB decided to move forward with the exhibit partnership, but shift to a virtual setting in order to adhere to health and safety protocols in place.

“We have seen a huge increase in student interest in visual arts during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our students are using the arts to express their thoughts, feelings, beliefs and messages that they may or may not be comfortable communicating in other manners” said Pat Costello, DCDSB Academic Services Consultant for Health and Physical Education and the Arts. “A virtual art exhibit was a way for students to share their creativity with their friends, families and community, along with natural connections within the Arts Curriculum.”

“We are thrilled to be able to support the Durham Catholic District School Board Student Art Exhibition with this beautiful virtual showcase of student artwork. While we look forward to being able to host this exhibition in person again in the future, we are so pleased to be able to celebrate alongside each of you. Congratulations to all the students and teachers who worked to make this possible – you have really outdone yourselves. Thank you for sharing your incredible work.” - Leila Timmins, Senior Curator.

The DCDSB and the RMG would like to acknowledge the many dedicated teachers who have supported student creativity and expression, and whose efforts have gone into creating this virtual art exhibit. We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to all of the students who had the courage to share their talents with us.

The DCDSB Virtual Art Exhibit can be viewed on the RMG website here.

Check! Direction of Catholic School Support

Tue, 21 Aug 2018 12:00:00 GMT

Registering your child in a Durham Catholic school is the strongest show of support for Catholic education a parent can make. Another way that Catholic parents and Catholics in the community, can support Catholic education in Durham Region is by ensuring that you direct your support to the English-Separate system with the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC).

You don’t have to have a child in a Catholic school to support Catholic education

Many English-Separate ratepayers don’t have children, but attended Catholic schools themselves. Others have children who completed their Catholic education, or are family members of current students. Each voter’s reason for supporting Catholic education is unique, but collectively they share a unified faith in a system that delivers exceptional faith-based education to more than 21,000 students in Durham Catholic schools every day.

Check – Are you a Catholic Ratepayer?

The voice and vote of Catholic ratepayers is important to the future of our Catholic schools. In order to vote for Catholic trustees, Durham Catholic District School Board ratepayers must be registered as separate school supporters.

To make the process of verifying support easier for voters, the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) has created voterlookup.ca.

Through voterlookup.ca, all Ontario residents can check to ensure that their information is accurately reflected on MPAC’s Preliminary List of Electors for the municipal and school board elections.

Visit voterlookup.ca to confirm information and follow the easy steps published on the website.
Make corrections as necessary. Only separate school supporters can vote for Catholic trustees.

For more information call 1-866-296-6722.

Christmas Message from the Chair of the Board and Director of Education

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 13:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

As we approach the final days of the Advent season, we look forward with joy to the coming of the Lord. Over the past four weeks, we have been invited to engage in a journey of reflection, gratitude, and preparation. In the lighting of each of the candles of the Advent wreath, we have stepped closer to the love of God made flesh in the birth of our Saviour, Jesus Christ. May we all be ready to welcome him with open hearts at Christmas.

December has been a joyful time in our schools as our students, staff and communities have been involved in Christmas concerts, food and clothing drives, charitable and community service initiatives, along with many other exciting activities. We are truly grateful for the opportunities we have had to come together as a Catholic learning community to celebrate the spirit of the Advent season.

This time of year can be very busy, and may be mentally or emotionally draining. We encourage all in our Durham Catholic community to practice self-care, and to prioritize spiritual, physical, and social-emotional well-being.

To help support faith formation at home, we have compiled a list of resources and activities for families to participate in during these final days of Advent. We encourage you to visit our website at dcdsb.ca/Advent to access these resources.

To our community members of different faith traditions or beliefs, may this holiday season be one of joy and love as you connect with family and friends.

On behalf of the Board of Trustees and the Senior Administrative Team, we wish you all a very Merry Christmas. We look forward to seeing students, staff and families in the new year when school resumes on Monday, January 8, 2024.

Yours in Faith,

Monique Forster Tracy Barill
Chair of the Board Director of Education

August 4 - Ministry of Education Announces Return to School Plan for 2021-2022

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 22:00:00 GMT

August 4, 2021

Dear Parents and Guardians,

I hope you are enjoying a relaxing and peaceful summer with friends and family. Today, the Ministry of Education announced that schools will reopen on September 7, 2021, COVID-19: Health, Safety & Operational Guidance for Schools 2021-22.

We are eager to welcome students back to full-time school in-person or virtually. As announced today, safety protocols and routines will continue to be in place to support the health and well-being of our Catholic learning community.

Vaccinations
COVID-19 vaccinations are available for youth aged 12 to 17 and their family members and will play a big role in the safe return to school for all. If you are interested in receiving your first or second dose, please book an appointment as soon as possible at the Durham Region Health Department or attend one of their drop-in vaccination clinics. It is not too late to get vaccinated!

Ventilation
We have upgraded all DCDSB schools’ mechanic ventilation systems filters to MERV13 and are changing filters more frequently. Staff will continue to bring in more fresh air two hours prior to the start of school and two hours after school when weather permits.

We have also purchased 1,000 portable HEPA air filtration systems and have installed the unit in all elementary classrooms. We are currently in the process of installing HEPA units in every secondary classroom and shared space such as gyms, learning commons/libraries, and cafeterias.

COVID-19 Screening Tool

All students will be required to complete the province’s COVID-19 school screening tool and return a self-assessment form to school on Tuesday, September 7, 2021. As a reminder, students should not attend school if they or a family member in their household is feeling ill.

Safety Protocols
For students attending in-person elementary and secondary schools:

Daily self-assessments are to be performed at home prior to attending school for COVID-related symptoms.
Students or staff members who are exhibiting symptoms are expected to stay home.
Non-medical masks are mandatory indoors for students in Grades 1-12 and encouraged for those in Kindergarten.
Hand hygiene and physical distancing will continue to be emphasized and signage will remain in place throughout the school as a reminder.
Hand sanitizer and cleaning supplies continue to be available throughout the school.
Enhanced cleaning protocols continue throughout the school.
Access to school facilities will continue to be limited to students and staff only.
Schools will continue to work with the Durham Region Health Department as needed.

Extra-curricular Activities
Field trips, sports, music programs and extra-curricular activities will be allowed to resume in schools with prescribed protocols. Close contact sports such has basketball will be allowed outdoors. Our schools will communicate safety protocols regarding extra-curricular activities when available.

Elementary Schools
Our elementary schools will resume regular, full-time, instruction five days a week per the established school calendar. Hours of operation are available on your school’s website.

Secondary Schools
Secondary schools will be returning to a full-day of in-person instruction, with all students attending every day following a quadmester system with two courses per timetable. Hours of operation for secondary schools will be 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday to Friday unless otherwise communicated by the school.

Virtual and Hybrid Learning
Classes for students enrolled in Durham Catholic Virtual Learning Elementary School will begin on September 7, 2021. Staff will email families to provide log in information for Edsby during the week of August 30^th.

As previously communicated, a hybrid learning model will be provided for secondary students who registered in June for virtual learning for the 2021-2022 school year. More information will be forthcoming to students through their home school closer to the start of the year.

All school offices will be open on August 23, 2021. If for unforeseen circumstances, a family wishes to withdraw from virtual learning and return to in-person learning they should contact their home school as soon as possible after August 23 and before the start of school.

School Bus Information
Students in Kindergarten to Grade 12 who are eligible for busing through Durham Student Transportation Services (DSTS) will be given assigned seating and will be required to wear a masked while on the bus and complete the COVID-19 self-assessment prior to riding the bus each day. DSTS bus route information will be available by calling 1-866-908-6578 or 905-666-6979 beginning August 18, 2021. To access routing information, you will need your child’s OEN number which can be found on their report card.

Updates and Information
Thank you for your partnership as we ensure students and staff a safe and positive return to school. For ongoing updates, please visit www.dcdsb.ca/returntolearning.

Lastly, I extend an invitation to families to participate in a live virtual forum hosted in partnership with the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC). It is my hope that this will be an opportunity to respond to questions based on the most current situation as we transition to the 2021-2022 school year.

Save the Date! Welcome to the 2021-2022 School Year Online Forum for Parents and Guardians
Question and Answer Session with DCPIC and the Director of Education
Wednesday, September 1, 2021
Time: 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
An invitation and link will be emailed to families in the next two weeks.

We are grateful for a return to in-person learning in September. I continue to pray for you all and look forward to sharing more information in the coming weeks.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill,
Director of Education

Planting Trees at St. Joseph Catholic School in Oshawa

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 15:00:00 GMT

On Monday, September 29, St. Joseph Catholic School’s Garden Club spent the afternoon planting new trees with their Chief Custodian, Mr. Dupuis, and Garden Club teacher, Ms. Caruso. St. Joseph Catholic School Principal, Mrs. Principe, entered the school in The Oshawa Environmental Advisory Committee’s annual tree giveaway, with City of Oshawa, to receive a free tree for the school yard. Not only was the school fortunate enough to receive one tree, but they received ten additional trees! Thank you to the City of Oshawa for the opportunity.

Grade 7 to 12 Catch-Up School Based Immunization Clinics

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 20:00:00 GMT

The Durham Region Health Department (DRHD) is holding Catch-Up School Based Immunization Clinics from April 4, 2022 for a limited time and will be offering vaccines that have not been available through the school immunization program the last two years. Vaccines will be offered against Meningitis (Men-C-ACYW135), Hepatitis B (Hep-B), and Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) to eligible Grade 7-12 students. COVID -19 vaccination will be available during these clinics as well if requested.

To book an appointment, please visit the Durham Region booking portal at: www.durham.ca/immunizationclinics.

Clinics will be open 7 days a week, alternating between the Oshawa Centre (419 King St. W) and Pickering SmartCentres (1899 Brock Rd., Unit C3), with two clinics scheduled in Brock (April 23) and Uxbridge (May 7) schools. As appointment slots fill, additional appointment times will be made available; please continue to check for appointments.

If you are unsure whether your child is missing a vaccine, please use our online Immunization Connect Ontario (ICON) tool to check. If your child has already received one of the above vaccines through a Healthcare Provider, they will not have had their record updated; please report any vaccines to the Health Department through the ICON tool.

For more information about students’ immunization clinics in Durham Region, questions about vaccines or questions regarding a student’s vaccination status call Durham Health Connection Line at 905-668-2020 or 1-800-841-2729, or visit durham.ca/immunizationclinics.

Welcome Back to School

Wed, 04 Sep 2019 16:30:00 GMT

Staff and student leaders rolled out the red carpet yesterday and today, to welcome students back to our elementary and secondary schools. This school year marks the beginning of the Year of Hope.

“Celebrating the Year of Hope encourages us to look at our mission with faith in our hearts and gratitude for our students, staff, families, trustees, Catholic leaders and community partners. Together, we are called to celebrate and nurture the God-given talents of each student as we serve with excellence in the light of Christ.,” said Director O’Brien.

We continue to encourage parents and guardians to volunteer in our schools and on their Catholic School Council. We also encourage parents and guardians to subscribe to their school’s website, news and calendar feeds to stay informed of upcoming events.

Wishing everyone in our Durham Catholic learning community a safe and joyful return to school this September.

Celebrating Treaties Recognition Week

Tue, 05 Nov 2019 17:00:00 GMT

This week students are learning about treaties and treaty relationships during Treaties Recognition Week 2019. First introduced in 2016, Treaties Recognition Week promotes public education and awareness about the history and importance of treaties and treaty relationships. First Nations were the original inhabitants of this land we call Ontario. Our shared history begins around 400 years ago, when Europeans first arrived. A number of curriculum-linked resources have been created to help our staff and students explore this topic.

To learn more visit:

https://www.ontario.ca/page/treaties

Durham Catholic District School Board Recognizes the 2022-2023 Distinguished Catholic Leader

Tue, 02 May 2023 13:00:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is pleased to recognize Secondary Vice-Principal, Mark Daranjo, as the recipient of the 2022-2023 Distinguished Catholic Leader Award. The award was announced following a System-Wide Mass on Monday, May 1, 2023, which also recognized Durham Catholic Distinguished Educators from each school and department across the board.

“Mr. Daranjo has always strived to make meaningful connections with students, staff and families,” said Tracy Barill, Director of Education. “As a Catholic leader, he has been dedicated to creating and maintaining rich, faith-centered and inclusive learning environments for all students.”

Mr. Daranjo has been a valued Catholic educator and leader with the Durham Catholic District School Board for 24 years. He immigrated to Canada in 1998, after teaching for 14 years in Darjeeling, Calcutta, and Dubai. Mr. Daranjo began with the DCDSB in 1999, and has taught Grades 4-12, in addition to English as a Second Language courses for the Advanced Placement program. Since 2013, he has been an administrator serving as Vice-Principal at All Saints Catholic Secondary School, Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School, and Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School.

A true leader, Mr. Daranjo has extended his skills and strengths as a member of many board-wide initiatives beyond his role as vice-principal. These include being a mentor for new Vice-Principals and involvement as a leader in the New Teacher Induction Program, where he supported and guided new teachers. Mr. Daranjo has also shared his passion and knowledge by serving on the Board’s Equity and Diversity Committee to provide insight and training to Administrators, educators and staff. In addition, he has served as an integral part of a team that worked to develop the DCDSB’s Policy on Equity and Inclusion.

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I would like to extend our sincere congratulations to Mr. Daranjo on receiving this year’s Distinguished Catholic Leader Award,” said Monique Forster, Chair of the Board. “To be recognized by his peers for his dedication to creating a welcome, inclusive, equitable and caring Catholic learning community is such an honour.”

“I am both humbled and honoured to be selected by my colleagues as the Distinguished Catholic Leader,” said Mark Daranjo, Vice-Principal of Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School. “As a new immigrant to Canada 25 years ago, I have always felt very fortunate to have been hired by the DCDSB to pursue a career in Catholic Education. I thank all those who placed their trust in me and gave me and my family a start to making Canada our new home. My sincere thanks also goes out to all those I have worked alongside over the years. May God grant you the strength to continue to build communities rooted in Christ.”

April 14 - Special Education Advisory Committee Meeting

Sat, 11 Apr 2020 16:00:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board is holding a live Special Education Advisory Committee meeting on Tuesday, April 14 at 7:30 p.m. Members of the public are invited to view the live virtual meeting by clicking here.

Grade 1 French Immersion Registration Opens on November 29

Tue, 22 Nov 2022 20:00:00 GMT

Dear Year 2 Kindergarten/Senior Kindergarten Families:

Registration for Grade 1 French Immersion opens on Tuesday, November 29, 2022!

All interested Year 2 Kindergarten/Senior Kindergarten families are invited to learn more about Grade 1 French Immersion at the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) at our virtual Information Session on Tuesday, November 29, 2022 from 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. No registration is required for this Microsoft Teams live event.

Registration for Grade 1 French Immersion will be open from Tuesday, November 29, 2022 – Friday, January 20, 2023.

We have compiled some helpful resources below:

French Immersion Registration Information, including Frequently Asked Questions.
French Immersion programming at DCDSB, including our Grade 1 French Immersion Information Session video.
DCDSB French Immersion school listing and boundary maps.

Registration for French Immersion is completed online through OSAS. You will need to login to your OSAS account, and select “French Immersion New Application”.

If you have questions about French Immersion, or French as a Second Language (FSL) programs, please contact us at FrenchPrograms@dcdsb.ca or visit our website.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

DCDSB Regional Arts & Media Program

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is now accepting applications to the Regional Arts & Media Program, located at All Saints Catholic Secondary School in Whitby. This program serves students in Grade 7 - 12 and offers additional specialized instruction in the arts or media program area of their choice.

We are excited to invite all Grade 6 and Grade 8 students to apply now for a September 2023 start. If you have a passion for the arts we encourage you to apply – no prior experience is necessary.

Program areas include Dance, Instrumental Music, Media Arts (Grade 9 entry only), Performing Arts (Drama and Vocal Music), and Visual Arts.

Key Dates:

October 11 – December 9, 2022: Online applications are open
November 1, 2022: AMP Information Session and Open House at All Saints Catholic Secondary School (3001 Country Ln, Whitby)
November 19, 2022: Fall audition workshop C-AMP (registration required – no cost)
January 28-29, 2022: Auditions

All Saints Catholic Secondary School is a dual track school offering a comprehensive Grade 9 - 12 program for students who live within the All Saints Catholic Secondary School boundary alongside the Grade 7 - 12 Regional Arts & Media Program.

As part of the DCDSB’s commitment to equity, we are not charging an audition fee for applications received for a September 2023 start in the program.

To learn more, and to apply online, visit amp.dcdsb.ca.

Best,

DCDSB Regional Arts & Media Program
Website: amp.dcdsb.ca
Email: amp@dcdsb.ca
Phone: 905-666-7753
Find us on Twitter, Instagram and YouTube

DCDSB News: Back-to-School Edition

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 16:45:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

With the first day of school almost here, the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is excited to share the first edition of the DCDSB News for the 2023-2024 school year! Please click here to view the newsletter.

This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what’s happening across the DCDSB.

Highlights include:

Welcome to the 2023-2024 School Year from the DCDSB Board Chair and Director of Education=

Living in Faith:

Presenting the 2023-2024 DCDSB Spiritual Theme, Speaking With the Heart

DCDSB Updates:

2023-2026 Strategic Plan: Inspire 2026
School Year Calendar
DCDSB Anti-Black Racism and Black Excellence Advisory Committee Seeks Chair and Vice-Chair
DCDSB KinderClub
#ForTheKids Golf Classic

Parent, Guardian and Caregiver Resources:

Report a Student Absence Through Safe Arrival
Bus Route Information
Class Placements and Timetables
Supports for Students with Special Education Needs

DCDSB Students:

Assistive Technology Summer Camp
Summer Rays
Literacy and Numeracy Summer Programs

Continuing Education:

2023-2024 Adult & Continuing Education Program Guide

Upcoming Events:

Recognition days and more

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Nominate a School for Outstanding Communications

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Nominations are being accepted for the Reverend John Markle Home-School Communications Award.

Our Durham Catholic schools are committed to engaging with our communities by delivering timely, effective and open communication with the most appropriate tools and technology available. A selection committee is accepting nominations from parents, guardians and students who believe their school has gone above and beyond in communicating with students and families over the 2020-2021 school year. One elementary and one secondary school will be selected to receive the award at the May 25, 2021 Board meeting.

How to nominate a school

Complete the nomination form and describe how your school demonstrates excellence, faith-based values and Catholicity in the area of home-school communications. Your submission should include examples of how your school has demonstrated school spirit and communication with your school community during the pandemic.

Deadline

The winning schools will be selected by a committee consisting of one Trustee representative and two Student Trustees. Submissions will be accepted until Friday, March 5, 2021 at
5:00 p.m.

Honouring our Veterans: A DCDSB Community Tribute

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 13:00:00 GMT

Throughout the month of November, the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) pays our respects to the over 2.3 million Canadians who have served our country, and continue to serve, in times of war, conflict and peace. On Indigenous Veterans Day on November 8, and Remembrance Day on November 11, we will honour all those who fought for Canada in the First World War, Second World War Korean War, and all who have served since then.

In honour of Indigenous Veterans Day and Remembrance Day, we invite members of our Durham Catholic learning community to share the name(s) of those in current or past service that you will be thinking of this November. The names will be displayed on the board’s website and on the digital sign located in front of the DCDSB Catholic Education Centre (650 Rossland Rd. E, Oshawa, ON), from November 8-12, 2024.

If you would like to participate, please complete the form by 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, November 6, 2024.

Click here to complete the form

In addition to our community tribute to our veterans, students and staff will be participating in liturgies, learning, and activities at the school level to show gratitude and respect for all Veterans who lost their lives while fighting to protect the freedoms and privileges we enjoy today. Let us never forget the sacrifices they made and the importance of keeping their legacies alive.

Technology Survey - A Message from the Director of Education

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 22:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

I hope you and your families are safe and well during this unprecedented time as we continue to follow precautions informed by the province to prevent the spread of COVID-19. In spite of the necessary restrictions being followed in our community and world-wide, it is my wish that you were able to spend time together over the March Break and are maintaining the deep sense of hope that we foster here at Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB).

In anticipation of an extension of the closures I wanted to let you know that we are in the process of preparing for the next phase of distance learning.

With this in mind, we have developed a parent survey to help DCDSB understand how many of our students are in need of technology devices and/or the Internet for learning at home.

Please fill in a survey for each child who does not have access to a device and/or the Internet.

If your child has access to a device such as desktop, laptop, or Chromebook, iPhone/tablet, smart phone (plus Internet), you do not need to complete this survey.

The survey is now closed - thank you for your responses.

If you are receiving this message and are unable to access the survey, please call your child's teacher or school and leave a voicemail and a staff member will reach out to you.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

Welcome to the 2025-2026 School Year!

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Welcome to the 2025-2026 school year! Whether you are joining the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) for the first time or returning for another year, we are delighted to have you as part of our Catholic learning community.

Each new school year brings an exciting sense of renewal and possibility. Building on the achievements of last year’s Student Achievement Plan, we remain focused on the goals outlined in our multi-year strategic plan, Inspire 2026. These priorities include supporting faith and well-being, advancing human rights, equity, and Indigenous education, and improving student learning.

Our spiritual theme for this year is Blessed are the Peacemakers (Matthew 5:9), which was inspired by Pope Leo XIV’s invocation of peace, and his prayer that “one and all” may be helped “to build bridges through dialogue and encounter, joining together as one people, always at peace”. Blessed are the Peacemakers will guide our reflections, actions, and community spirit throughout the year. I encourage you to visit our website to learn more about this theme and view our student designed poster.

We are excited to announce the People of Peace recognition program, a new initiative that brings to life our spiritual theme as we celebrate faith in action. Each month, we will honour one student and one staff member who exemplify the spirit of peacemaking – those who actively build bridges, foster understanding, and reflect God’s love in their daily lives. To learn more about the People of Peace program and to nominate a student or staff member, please visit our website.

We recognize that families play a vital role in student success. To stay informed and engaged, we invite you to create an Edsby account, download the SchoolMessenger app, read our monthly newsletter to families, and follow the board on social media (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube). We believe that strong partnerships between home, school, and parish help us to best serve our students and to fulfill our mission: to be an inclusive Catholic learning community that inspires every student to reach their full potential through faith and education. Opportunities to connect include participating in your school’s Catholic School Council and the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee, which hosts regular meetings, events, and activities. To learn more about ways to be involved in your child’s education, we encourage you to speak with your school.

We look forward to welcoming students back on Tuesday, September 2, and wish everyone a joyful and successful start to the school year.

Yours in peace and faith,

Gerard Winn
Director of Education

DCDSB Welcomes Archbishop Francis Leo - Message from the Chair of the Board and Director of Education

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 12:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

On Saturday, March 25, 2023, the Mass of Installation for the Most Reverend Francis Leo took place at St. Michael’s Cathedral Basilica in Toronto. His Grace, Francis Leo was appointed by Pope Francis as the 13th Archbishop of Metropolitan Toronto, which includes the Durham Region, succeeding Cardinal Thomas Collins who shepherded the Archdiocese since 2007. On behalf of the Durham Catholic District School Board, we want to extend a warm welcome and offer our congratulations to Archbishop Francis Leo, as he takes up this new Ministry.

Born in Montreal in 1971, Francis Leo comes to Toronto having most recently served as Auxiliary Bishop for the Archdiocese of Montreal. The newly installed Archbishop commented, “It is with great humility that I accept this appointment from the Holy Father to serve the faithful of the Archdiocese of Toronto. I thank Pope Francis for the confidence he has placed in me. This was a most unexpected appointment, yet I have learned throughout my priesthood and service to the Church that God’s special plans for us unfold in unexpected moments that lead to tremendous blessings.”

We also want to extend our sincere appreciation to Cardinal Collins for his 16 years of service as Archbishop of Toronto. We offer Cardinal Collins our prayers and best wishes as he embarks on his retirement.

As members of the Catholic community, we offer our prayers for our new spiritual leader, Archbishop Leo. May God bless him with strength, courage, and wisdom in the pastoral care of the faithful and ministry across the region.

Yours in Faith,

Monique Forster Tracy Barill
Chair of the Board Director of Education

Schools Remain Open following Easter Weekend

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 20:00:00 GMT

April 1, 2021

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Today the Ministry of Education advised school boards across Ontario that there is no intention to move to remote learning following the Easter holidays and April break. Students currently attending in-person school will continue to attend classes for the four days next week from April 6-9, 2021.

The Spring Break for all students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 in both virtual and face to face learning is still scheduled to take place as planned from April 12 – 16, 2021.

While we cannot predict what the future will hold, the Ministry of Education has advised that they are planning for schools to re-open and for students to return to in-person learning on Monday, April 19, 2021 following the break.

As a reminder, please ensure that you have completed the province’s COVID-19 school screening tool for your child prior to attending school. Please contact your school’s office if you have questions or need assistance.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill,
Director of Education

Nominate Your DCDSB School for Outstanding Communications

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 16:45:00 GMT

Nominations are being accepted for the Reverend John Markle Home-School Communications Award!

Our Durham Catholic schools are committed to engaging with our communities by delivering timely, effective and open communication with the most appropriate tools and technology available. A selection committee is accepting nominations from parents, guardians and students who believe their school has gone above and beyond in communicating with students and families over the 2021-2022 school year. One elementary and one secondary school will be selected to receive the award at the May 24, 2022 Board Meeting.

How to nominate a school

Parents, guardians, and students are encouraged to complete the nomination form and submit a paragraph (maximum 150 words) describing how your school demonstrates excellence, faith-based values and Catholicity in the area of school to home communications. Your submission should include examples of how your school has demonstrated school spirit and communication with your school community during the pandemic.

Submissions

Completed nomination forms and supporting examples of excellence in school to home communications will be emailed to the Durham Catholic District School Board’s Communications Department at communications@dcdsb.ca.

Deadline

The winning schools will be selected by a committee consisting of one Trustee representative and two Student Trustees.

Submissions will be accepted until Friday, March 4, 2022 at 5:00 p.m.

New to Canada - Join a Free Welcome and Information Program for Newcomers

Mon, 10 Jul 2017 14:15:00 GMT

SWIS Durham and the Durham Catholic School Board partner to offer newcomers to Canada a welcome and information orientation program for students and families. You are invited to register for this free program, by contacting our school or calling SWIS Durham at 905-686-2661.

This year’s orientation program will be held on Tuesday, August 29, 2017 at Bolton C. Falby Pubic School, 80 Falby Court, Ajax from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

2022-2023 Director's Annual Report: Listening With the Ear of the Heart

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 13:45:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

I am pleased to present my 2022-2023 Director’s Annual Report: Listening With the Ear of the Heart. The past school year was filled with learning, excitement and the joy of community. Students, staff and families were thrilled to be able to re-engage with one another in celebrations of faith, robust learning inside and outside of the classroom, co-curricular activities, field trips, proms, graduations and retirements.

As a board, we have adopted a stewardship for creation stance and have therefore chosen to reduce our paper consumption wherever possible. The full 2022-2023 Director’s Annual Report: Listening With the Ear of the Heart is available in a digital version and can be found on our board website at dcdsb.ca/DirectorsAnnualReport.

The Director’s Annual Report is an opportunity to highlight some of the initiatives, projects and activities from the 2022-2023 school year that further support student achievement, faith formation and student well-being. I invite you to learn more about our achievements and our stories in my report.

I want to extend my sincere gratitude to students, staff, families, Board of Trustees, parish and clergy partners, and community members for their ongoing partnership and efforts to support Catholic education in Durham Region.

Thank you for another exciting faith-filled year of learning, community and growth.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

DCPIC Parent/Guardian Survey

Tue, 10 May 2022 19:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We want to hear from you!
We welcome input from parents, guardians and caregivers. The survey consists of six questions and will take approximately five minutes to complete.

To complete the survey, please click here. The survey will remain open until Friday, June 3, 2022.

About DCPIC
The main purpose of the DCPIC is to encourage, support and enhance meaningful parent involvement to improve student academic achievement and well-being. By providing a direct link between parents, Catholic School Councils, the Director of Education and the Board of Trustees, the DCPIC is committed to working in partnership with all stakeholders to promote faith formation and student success in our schools. The DCPIC holds monthly meetings which are open to the public.

To learn more about the DCPIC, please visit dcpic.ca.

Yours in Faith,

Melissa Bevan
Chair, Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee

DCPIC Lenten Craft Activities

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 18:00:00 GMT

February 17, 2021 marked the start of Lent with Ash Wednesday. This year, DCDSB's Faith department created an online Lenten calendar for students and families to follow and complete daily activities. Visit the online Lenten Calendar here.

To support this initiative, the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) is offering virtual Lenten craft nights using materials in your home. DCPIC will be creating short videos with instructions on how to complete these crafts, and will post them to the DCPIC website.

DCPIC encourages families to send a photo of your completed craft project each week to chair@dcpic.ca along with the name and age of your child. Each week we will be doing a random draw from the email submissions for e-gift cards!

For more information on DCPIC please visit dcpic.ca.

We Walk the Path Together: Indigenous Education Newsletter

Tue, 09 Jul 2019 16:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We are excited to launch our Indigenous Education newsletter; We Walk the Path Together. The quarterly newsletter provides information, news and events regarding Indigenous Education at the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB).

This issue features information on how to self-identify your child’s Indigenous ancestry and upcoming Indigenous Education community events. We encourage you to take some time to participate in local Indigenous events throughout the summer.

Read this issue of the newsletter at dcdsb.ca/IndigenousEducationNewsletter.

For information regarding Indigenous Education at DCDSB, contact James MacKinnon, Teaching and Learning Consultant via email at james.mackinnon@dcdsb.ca.

St. Theresa Catholic School Opens Its Doors to Newcomers

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 13:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, August 26, 2025, St. Theresa Catholic School in Whitby welcomed newcomer families to Durham Region by hosting the Welcome and Information for Newcomers (WIN) program. This day was made possible through the partnership program, Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS). SWIS Durham is a partnership program involving Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB), Durham District School Board (DDSB), Community Development Council Durham and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.

Newcomer families participated in a day of programming designed for elementary students and learned about the Ontario school system. Teachers from DCDSB and DDSB were available to answer questions from parents, guardians and students, and DCDSB student volunteers assisted families by speaking about their educational experiences to help students to feel comfortable coming into a new school environment.

The student volunteers were essential to the success of the WIN event. “I volunteered because I wanted to support this event and make new families feel comfortable by signing them in and helping them around the school,” said Scarlett, a Grade 9 Student from Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School and a graduate from St. Theresa Catholic School. “I think this program is important because it sets newcomers up for success and it shows families that schools in Durham Region work hard to provide their children with a good education.”

Vicki Kerr, Co-Manager of Newcomer Community Services at Community Development Council Durham, spoke about the importance of the SWIS WIN program and how it helps parents and guardians set their children up for success at school in a new community. “Families have been learning about what to pack their child for lunch, what their child should wear, what classrooms look like, and where to get help at school and outside of school,” Vicki said. “Today is about creating a welcoming environment, and we believe that this is essential in promoting community and getting newcomers better starts in schools.”

Vicki also emphasized that support doesn’t end with the WIN event. Newcomer families have access to year-round assistance through the SWIS program, with settlement workers available at local schools to help with questions about school, community resources, or other concerns. This was an important takeaway from the event for families.

“We are thrilled to have the SWIS WIN program here at St. Theresa today,” said Phyllis Pereia, Principal at St. Theresa Catholic School. “We are proud to have been a part of this special journey for new families to Durham Region, and we are so grateful for our continued partnership with SWIS Durham.”

The success of the SWIS WIN program hosted at St. Theresa Catholic School was made possible through the dedication and collaboration of all involved. The DCDSB would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the SWIS team that worked hard to put the event together, and the incredible student volunteers and staff of St. Theresa Catholic School for their commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for newcomer families in Durham Region.

Learn more about SWIS Durham by visiting the Community Development Council of Durham website.

COVID-19 Fact Sheets from Durham Region Health Department

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 17:00:00 GMT

The Durham Region Health Department are asking families to read the following fact sheets that provide information and answer questions about COVID-19, what to do if you or a family members develops COVID-19 symptoms, facts about self-isolation and vaccine information:

Fact Sheet: COVID-19 Symptoms in Schools and in Schools' Childcares
Fact Sheet: COVID-19 Self-Isolation
Fact Sheet: COVID-19 Vaccine for Children 5-11
Fact Sheet: COVID-19 Vaccine for Children 12+

Please visit the Durham Region's Return to School Toolkit for additional information.

DCDSB News - October 2024

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 17:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

The October 2024 issue of the DCDSB News is now available. This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what's happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

Faith
- October is the Month of the Rosary
- “Teach Us to Pray” Resource
Indigenous Education in Action
- Walk in recognition of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
- Reflecting on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at St. Isaac Jogues Catholic School
DCDSB Updates
- Applications for the Regional Arts & Media Program are Now Open!
- Equity Invitational Learning Series
- DCDSB Seeks Volunteer Community Member to Serve on the Audit Committee
- DCDSB KinderClub
Parent, Guardian, and Caregiver Resources
- Durham Region – Mobile ID and Benefits Access Hubs
- Canada Revenue Agency Tax Literacy Initiatives
Mental Health and Well-Being
- BWell Student Mental Health Leadership Summit
- Encouraging Good Sleep Habits
DCDSB Students
- DCDSB Celebrates Franco-Ontarian Day
- Durham Regional Police Service Junior Police Chief for the Day
- DCDSB Regional Cross Country Meets
- St. Theresa Catholic School Celebrates School Feast Day
Continuing Education
- Start a Career as a Personal Support Worker (PSW) with Archbishop Anthony Meagher’s Free PSW Program
Upcoming Events

Sincerely,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Preparing for the Easter Long Weekend

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 21:00:00 GMT

March 31, 2021

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As we prepare for the holiest days of our Liturgical calendar – the celebration of the Passion, Death and Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, I encourage families to continue to follow public health safety guidelines as we celebrate our faith this weekend. Let us continue to pray that the ongoing challenges related to the pandemic will soon be over.

While we have not been notified of an anticipated school closure following the Easter weekend or April break, we are encouraging students to bring home all personal belongings, technology or school supplies in the event that we are required to shift to online learning. Thank you for your ongoing cooperation and understanding as we endeavour to prepare for all possible outcomes following the long weekend.

This weekend, I encourage you to look after your social, emotional and physical well-being. Take a mental health moment or time to relax, read a book, go for a walk or connect with friends and family virtually.

When we return to school, please remember to complete the province’s COVID-19 school screening tool and do not attend school if your child or a family member in your household is feeling ill.

We will continue to monitor the situation and provide families with updates as information becomes available. May the love of God and the power of prayer bring a sense of calmness to your family this Easter season.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill,
Director of Education

Are you Moving?

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 14:30:00 GMT

In order to assist us in determining our projected enrolments for the coming year, parents are asked to inform the school as soon as possible if/when they know that their children will be leaving our school or not returning in the fall (this includes a move to the Durham Catholic Virtual Elementary School). A Student Transfer Request form can be requested from the school. This form will assist us in our planning and will allow us to assist you in registering your children at any other school in the Durham Catholic District School Board.

DCDSB - Air Quality Update for June 7, 2023

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 15:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

We want to provide an update on activities in the Durham Catholic District School Board for Wednesday, June 7, 2023.

Based on consultations with the Durham Region Health Department and an anticipated worsening Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) as the day progresses, we have recommended that students be kept indoors for recess and lunch today. For those attending track and field, students have been moved indoors, and remaining events have been cancelled. Students will return to their schools as soon as possible.

The DCDSB will continue to work with the Region of Durham to monitor the air quality and introduce additional safety measures where needed. For more information on outdoor air quality, please visit the Region of Durham website.

We anticipate similar recommendations will be in place on Thursday, June 8, 2023.

School ventilation will continue to be adjusted as required. Portable HEPA units are currently being used throughout our schools.

For tips and more information on how to protect yourself from wildfire smoke, please visit the Government of Canada website.

If you have any questions, please contact your school.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Indigenous Education Evening with Guest Speaker, Peter Yellowquill

Wed, 24 Oct 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Durham Catholic parents/guardians, secondary students and community members are invited to attend a free Indigenous Education evening with Residential Schools Survivor, Peter Yellowquill.

Peter Yellowquill will speak about his experience in residential schools and talk about how Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians can work together towards the path of reconciliation.

Date: Monday, November 5, 2018

Location: Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School, 1375 Harwood Ave., North, Ajax

Doors open: Refreshments served at 6:30 p.m.
Peter Yellowquill will speak at 7:00 p.m.
Questions & Answers: 8:30 p.m.

Pre-registration is required. Register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/residential-school-survivor-speaks-peter-yellowquill-tickets-51341007335

See attached poster for more details.

BE-STEMM 2023

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 20:15:00 GMT

From February 1-4, 2023, the Canadian Black Scientists Network is is hosting a four day virtual, multidisciplinary program featuring research in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Medicine & Health (STEMM) for students in Grades 7-12.

Highlights of BE-STEMM 2023 include keynote talks by established and rising star Black scholars in STEMM, contributed talks by Black scholars, practitioners, students, and educators across disciplines, panel discussions, and an opportunity to mentor emerging Black scientists in our Science Fair. In partnership with the Black Engineers of Canada, our virtual Career Fair features varied employment opportunities and programs. Visit the BE-STEAMM website to register.

Engaging Parents and Guardians in Math

Fri, 03 Feb 2017 15:30:00 GMT

Our Board's Teaching and Learning Department has created a brochure entitled Engaging Parents and Guardians in Math. It offers tips to help make Math fun and engaging at home.

Download DCDSB's App and Complete the Self-Assessment Screening

Sun, 07 Feb 2021 15:00:00 GMT

To ensure the health and safety of our school communities, students, families and staff are required to complete the COVID-19 self-assessment screening prior to attending school.
PLEASE DO NOT SEND YOUR CHILD TO SCHOOL IF THEY HAVE SYMPTOMS OR HAVE NOT PASSED THE SELF ASSESSMENT.

For ease of access students, a direct link to the Covid-19 school self-screening tool is now available on the DCDSB app. Parents/guardians, students and staff with mobile devices are encouraged to download the DCDSB app from Apple App Store or Google Play. The app can be located by searching “Durham Catholic District School Board”.

DCPIC Virtual Family Workshop and Show

Thu, 05 May 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Dear DCDSB Parents and Guardians,

The Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) would like to invite families to a virtual workshop and show with Mad Science. This virtual event will be held on Wednesday, May 11, 2022 at 7:00 p.m.

Advance registration is required. Please click here to register for this virtual workshop.

Please note that registration will be on a first-come, first-served basis.

About the Mad Science Fire & Ice Show
Audiences will be dazzled by our spectacular Fire & Ice Show! We will mesmerize children with our special ice that doesn’t melt. The properties of the dry ice will create a foggy dry ice storm, a shivering coin dance, and the “big burp”. We will heat things up with our paper that doesn’t burn, disappearing fire, and a finale that will leave audiences wanting more.

Families will have the opportunity to participate during the virtual workshop in a hands-on activity using household items.

This workshop is best suited for families with children in Grades 1-6. Parent/guardian involvement is highly recommended.

Best,
Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee

St. Joseph Catholic School Students Shine with Silver Finish in the CBC Music Class Challenge: Spring Edition

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 20:15:00 GMT

We want to extend a big congratulations to the incredible students at St. Joseph Catholic School in Oshawa for taking second place at this year’s CBC Music Class Challenge: Spring Edition. Students recorded “Everything is Boring” by The Beaches and were in the Elementary/Junior Contemporary Ensemble category.

St. Joseph Catholic School students said:

We were thrilled to find out that there was a first ever Spring edition of the Music Class Competition because we had the unique opportunity to record our live off the floor performance at a professional recording in Toronto’s historic Massey Hall. It was an experience of a lifetime! Our group consisted of 14 students ranging from Grades 6-8. The instruments used were two acoustic guitars, a ukulele, a mandolin, a keyboard and an iPad. We rehearsed every day for 25 minutes for a month to prepare for our recording. We had a blast participating in the music class competition once again and we look forward to watching all the submissions. Thanks again to the CBC Music Class team for organizing this awesome event. A huge thank you to our music teacher, Mr. Parker for his dedication to preparing these students!

Watch the St. Joseph Catholic School recording of “Everything is Boring” by The Beaches.

Camp Invention at Durham College

Thu, 25 Apr 2019 22:00:00 GMT

Please see the flyer below from one of our community partners. Durham College is offeringa Summer Camp called "Camp Invention" for children 9 to 14 years of age. This camp is a great opportunity for children to experience hands-on STEM activities. If you are interested in this camp, please register at www.durhamcollege.ca/summercamps.

May is Asian and South Asian Heritage Month

Mon, 01 May 2023 19:45:00 GMT

May is Asian Heritage Month in Canada, and South Asian Heritage Month in Ontario. This is a time to reflect on and learn more about the many achievements and contributions of Canadians of Asian heritage.

The theme for 2023 is "Stories of Determination” which was announced by Minister Hussen. The theme represents the strides made and the challenges overcome by Asian communities to thrive in Canada over the last two centuries and beyond.

Asian Heritage Month has been celebrated since the 1990s. In December 2001, the Senate of Canada adopted a motion proposed by Senator Vivienne Poy to officially designate May as Asian Heritage Month in Canada. In May 2002, the Government of Canada signed an official declaration to announce May as Asian Heritage Month.

This month gives us the opportunity to acknowledge the many achievements and contributions the Asian communities have made to the fabric of our society. It is a time for us to recognize their impact and honour their resilience, hard work and dedication in enriching our diverse society.

To learn more, please see the following resources:

Parent Information Session with Kevin Cameron

Tue, 29 Nov 2022 20:00:00 GMT

Reminder to register for the parent information session with Kevin Cameron.

Join Kevin Cameron this week on December 1, 2022 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. as he shares information and strategies relating to post-pandemic mental health for ourselves and our children.

What can parents, guardians, caregivers and schools do to support the well-being of children? Kevin Cameron will share key insights that will help us move forward together.

Please visit www.eventbrite.ca to register.

Year End Message from the Chair of the Board and Director of Education

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 20:00:00 GMT

Dear Families,

As the 2021-2022 school year comes to an end, we reflect upon the school year that started with the pandemic and over time transitioned back to in-person learning. We have joyfully embraced the opportunity to finally re-engage in person with one another for religious celebrations, social events and activities such as sports, field trips, proms, graduations and retirements.

Throughout the school year, our spiritual theme Community of Faith provided opportunities for students and staff to support one another in faith and mindfully participate in service of others. I invite you to watch the compilation video that highlights our Community of Faith in action.

Over the course of the year, we celebrated many remarkable achievements and milestones. Some of our most exciting news and initiatives included:

Ministry of Education approval to build a new Catholic elementary school on the Seaton land in Pickering, and a new addition for St. Anne Catholic School in Oshawa;
The grand opening and official school blessing of St. Anne Catholic School, in Oshawa and St. Marguerite d’Youville Catholic School, in Whitby;
The opening of three childcare facilities at Monsignor Philip Coffey, Good Shepherd and St. Teresa of Calcutta Catholic Schools;
Implementation of engaging experiential learning opportunities focused on Indigenous education to deepen students learning from Kindergarten to Grade 12;
The Stand Up, Be Counted, Be Heard Student Census;
The hiring of two Coach Advocates for Black Students who work within our schools to support the implementation of programs and services to meet the needs of underserved Black students and families, with a focus on student well-being and success;
A 2SLGBTQ+ Student Summit;
And the establishment of a Multi-Year Strategic Planning Committee and process to guide us into the future.

During the Multi-Year Strategic Planning (MYSP) process, we heard from students, staff, families and community partners. Your feedback has informed the development of some draft mission statements and strategic priorities that have been reviewed by staff, the Board of Trustees and MYSP Committee for additional input. We invite you to view the Multi-Year Strategic Planning video to learn more about the proposed mission statement and themes that will help guide Catholic education in Durham Region. If you have any questions regarding the themes, please email strategicplanning@dcdsb.ca.

As we look towards the 2022-2023 school year, we hope to continue to support our students and families, guided by our spiritual theme, “Listening with the Ear of the Heart”. We recognize that now, more than every we need to open our hearts and minds to listen to our families, colleagues, and partners, so we can break down barriers and foster welcoming and inclusive environments for all.

Throughout the summer break, we ask for God’s blessings in granting everyone a safe and peaceful summer. We thank each and every one of you for your partnership and contributions this year.

Yours in Catholic Education,

Morgan Ste. Marie Tracy Barill
Chair of the Board Director of Education

Register Now for the DCDSB KinderClub

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 21:00:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic School Board (DCDSB) KinderClub is free for children ages 0 to 4 years old who have not yet registered for school.

Sign up today to receive a special birthday greeting during the month of your child's birthday and to be automatically entered to win a KinderClub monthly prize box! To learn more and to register, please visit our KinderClub webpage.

Birthday Card
When you register your child in the DCDSB KinderClub, your child will receive a birthday card in the mail via Canada Post. This birthday card includes a birthday message, a birthday prayer, and a special birthday sticker that your child can wear proudly on their big day!

Note: Your child does not currently have to be enrolled at one of our DCDSB schools to register for our KinderClub, however, you must live within DCDSB boundaries to participate (Oshawa, Whitby, Brooklin, Scugog, Uxbridge, Ajax, Pickering and Brock).

KinderClub Prize Box
Once your child is registered in the DCDSB KinderClub, your child will automatically be entered in a draw for our monthly KinderClub prize box! This box includes fun, play-based educational items.

Share your KinderClub Excitement!
We encourage you to share your KinderClub excitement with us when you receive your birthday card, and especially if you are the lucky monthly winner of the prize box! Use the hashtag #DCDSBKinderClub and tag us on social media @DurhamCatholic.

DCDSB Professional Activity Day Rescheduled to Monday, April 8, 2024

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 16:30:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) trustees have voted in favour of moving the Professional Activity (PA) Day previously scheduled for Friday, April 19, 2024, to Monday, April 8, 2024. The new PA Day of Monday, April 8, 2024, is in effect for elementary and secondary schools across the board.

This change is due to a total solar eclipse taking place on Monday, April 8. In Durham Region, the eclipse is expected to begin at 2:05 p.m. and end at 4:32 p.m., which coincides with student dismissal at the end of the school day.

To ensure student and staff safety, we are rescheduling the PA Day to coincide with the eclipse. This will help mitigate supervision and transportation safety concerns that could arise as a result of the darkness that would be experienced while students are being dismissed from school. As noted on the Government of Canada’s website, there are significant risks associated with viewing a solar eclipse. Directly looking at the sun, even during an eclipse, without appropriate protection can lead to severe eye damage or loss of eyesight.

Additional resources on Solar Eclipse Safety can be found at the following links:

As is our practice, the agenda of staff professional development scheduled for the PA Day on April 8 will be posted to our website in advance. Please note that Friday, April 19 will be a regular school day for all DCDSB elementary and secondary schools.

For further information on the 2023-2024 DCDSB school year calendar, please visit our website.

Urgent Social Work Support available for DCDSB Families

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 15:15:00 GMT

Social Work Access Line

(905) 576-6150 ext. 21021

Social Work Access Line

This service is open to any student or family of DCDSB who is in need of urgent social work support. Students and families can call the Social Work Access Line and leave a voicemail with their contact information. A Social Worker will call back to discuss the concern. The Social Worker will use a ‘single session’ approach to assist the caller with their concern. If additional support is needed, the Social Worker can arrange for additional services available through DCDSB, or inform the caller about supports in the community that may be helpful.

Please note: This is not a crisis line and will not be monitored 24/7. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis and need immediate crisis support, please call Durham Crisis Line at 1-800-742-1890 or go to your nearest emergency room.

Reverend John Markle Home-School Communications Award

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 15:30:00 GMT

Nominate a school for outstanding communications
Nominations are being accepted for the Reverend John Markle Home-School Communications Award.

Is your school delivering outstanding communications?
Our Durham Catholic schools are committed to engaging with our communities by delivering timely, effective, and open communication with the most appropriate tools and technology available. A selection committee is accepting nominations from parents, guardians and students who believe their school has done an outstanding job in communicating with students and families over the 2022-2023 school year. One elementary and one secondary school will be selected to receive the award at the May 23, 2023, Board Meeting.

How to nominate a school
Submit a short paragraph (maximum 150 words) describing how your school demonstrates excellence in the area of school to home communications. Your submission should include examples of how your school demonstrates one or more of the following:

Communication from the school demonstrating our faith-based values and Catholicity.
Newsletters providing relevant information in a format that is easy to read.
School website is updated regularly with informative and meaningful content.
Social media posts include relevant and interesting information for followers.
Emails and/or phone calls are used appropriately and effectively to notify parents of important notices.
Board information is distributed in a timely manner.

Your submission should include pictures of social media posts or emails, copies of newsletters or web links to show samples of outstanding home-school communications.

Submissions can be sent by email indicating Rev. John Markle Home to School Communication Award in the subject line to communications@dcdsb.ca or delivered in a sealed envelope addressed to:

Communications - Rev. John Markle Home to School Communication Award
Durham Catholic District School Board
650 Rossland Rd. West, Oshawa, ON L1J 7C4

The winning schools will be selected by a committee consisting of one Trustee representative and two Student Trustees.

Submissions will be accepted until Monday, March 13, 2023, at 4:30 p.m.

Webcast of DCPIC's Healthy Mind, Body and Spirit Symposium

Fri, 24 Feb 2017 19:00:00 GMT

A webcast of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee’s (DCPIC) Healthy Mind, Body and Spirit Symposium is now available. For video, click here.

It's Time to Complete the Stand Up, Be Counted, Be Heard Student Census

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 12:30:00 GMT

It’s time to complete the Stand Up, Be Counted, Be Heard Student Census! On Monday, April 25, you will receive an email from PermissionClick with a unique link to the Student Census for each one of your children in Grades 4 to 8. (For example: If you have three children in Grades 4 to 8 you will receive three (3) separate emails from PermissionClick to complete the student census.)

If you do not receive the email from PermissionClick, please check your junk or clutter folders for the email.

We encourage you to complete the student census with your child at home and have a conversation about the questions being asked or you can complete the census questions on behalf of your child.

This voluntary census will help the DCDSB understand and support the diversity of students and families, eliminate barriers to student success, enrich students’ learning by providing the right supports at the right time while making schools a safer, more welcoming space to belong to. Complete the Census today!

For more information, visit dcdsb.ca/studentcensus

June 2021 Issue of DCDSB's Indigenous Education Newsletter - We Walk the Path Together

Fri, 18 Jun 2021 16:00:00 GMT

We are pleased to bring you the latest issue of the Durham Catholic District School Board's Indigenous Education Newsletter – We Walk the Path Together. This issue features articles on:

Updates on the Student Indigenous Education Advisory Circle
An Overview of the 2020-2021 Grade 11 English: Understanding Contemporary Indigenous Voices Course
Student Videos at All Saints Catholic Secondary School for National Indigenous History Month and Residential School Memorial
Community Resources and Supports
Giving Back to Water Project at Monsignor Philip Coffey Catholic School
Upcoming Events:
- June 21, 2021 is Indigenous Peoples Day
- Durham Indigenous Voices Series
- Ontario Tech University: Turtle Island Summer Camp

Durham Catholic District School Board Recognized by Forbes as One of Canada's Best Employers in 2024

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 19:15:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is proud to announce that it has been recognized on the Forbes list of Canada’s Best Employers in 2024 and is the highest-ranking school board in Ontario.

“It is an honour to lead a board that employs so many talented and dedicated individuals at every level of the organization,” said Tracy Barill, DCDSB Director of Education. “A recognition of this nature reflects the important contributions made by everyone to support a positive workplace, individual well-being, and a sense of community. As we expand and diversify, we are committed to ongoing engagement with new and existing staff to ensure that all feel welcome and supported to continue to do their best work every day.”

Canada's Best Employers in 2024 were identified through a partnership between Forbes and market research firm Statista. An independent survey from a vast sample of over 40,000 Canada-based employees working for companies employing at least 500 people within Canada was completed. Over 900,000 employer evaluations were considered. The final score is based on two types of evaluations:

Personal Evaluation:
a. Employee’s current opinion of their employer overall: respondents were asked to gauge their overall willingness to evaluate their employer to family and friends.
b. Employee’s Previous Employers: respondents were also asked to rate their willingness to recommend any previous employers of the last two years
Public Evaluation: Participants were also given the chance to evaluate other employers in their respective industries, or the employers of friends, acquaintances, and family members that stand out either positively or negatively.

“We are so pleased to be awarded as one of Canada’s Best Employers in 2024,” said Monique Forster, Chair of the DCDSB Board of Trustees. “I want to extend my sincere thanks and congratulations to the Board of Trustees, Senior Administration team, all staff, and affiliate representatives, for their continued efforts to ensure we live out our mission to be an inclusive Catholic learning community that inspires every student to achieve their full potential through faith and education.”

Recording of Black Mental Health Day Presentation

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 21:30:00 GMT

On the evening of March 7, several DCDSB staff, students and parents/caregivers participated in an event in recognition of Black Mental Health Day. This day calls us to recognize the ongoing impact on mental health that results from experiences of anti-Black racism. It is also a day to raise awareness of the specific mental health needs of Black communities across Ontario.

The event featured Natalie Haynes, Registered Psychotherapist, Training Consultant and Speaker, who shared her own journey of self-acceptance, as well as information to guide others who may be seeking clarity, awareness and understanding of what gets in the way of accepting who they are.

For those who were unable to attend the event, the recording can be found at dcdsb.ca.

Stand Up, Be Counted, Be Heard Student Census

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 16:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The DCDSB is conducting the Stand Up, Be Counted, Be Heard Student Census from April 25-29, 2022 as required by the Anti-Racism Act, 2017 and Ontario’s Education Equity Action Plan. The voluntary student census is an opportunity for students in Grades 4-12 to share their voices, therefore the more responses we receive, the more effective the data will be to help inform and improve programming and learning environments.

Students in Grades 4 – 8 will complete the census in collaboration with their parent(s)/guardian(s) at home. While students in Grades 9-12 will complete the electronic census independently during provided class time.

The Student Census is voluntary and students, parents, and guardians can skip any question they do not want to answer. If you have concerns about your child’s participation, please call the school office and speak with the principal or email studentcensus@dcdsb.ca.

For additional information, please visit dcdsb.ca/studentcensus for Frequently Asked Questions, to preview the census questions and for videos highlighting the importance of why the Board is completing the census.

DCPIC Newsletter - Fall 2022

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 17:45:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The latest issue of the Durham Catholic Parenti Involvement Committee’s (DCPIC) newsletter is now available.

This issue includes:

A message from the new DCPIC Chair
Highlights from the DCPIC Commissioning Mass
Faith Formation

Advent activities
ShareLife School Poster Contest

Resources for Students and Families

Early Literacy Skills: Episode 1
DRCN Scholarship Application Workshop for Black DCDSB Students
DCDSB Mental Health & Well-Being Webpage
Register for a Parent Information Session on Current Realities in Post-Pandemic Well-Being

Engage with DCDSB
Ways to Give

Christmas Auction benefitting the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation
DCCF launches Tribute Donations

Dates for upcoming DCPIC meetings

For more information about the committee, visit dcpic.ca or email chair@dcpic.ca.

Yours in faith,

Rose LoPresti
Chair of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee

Welcome to the 2022-2023 School Year

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 12:30:00 GMT

Welcome back! What a pleasure it is, after two years of modifications, to begin 2022-2023 on a regular schedule. Here in Durham Catholic, we are looking forward to a school year that will focus on creating safe and welcoming, faith-based learning environments that support the needs and development of our students.

This year, our spiritual theme is “Listening With the Ear of the Heart”. Stemming from Pope Francis’s letter that was released on World Day of Social Communications in May 2022, this theme speaks to the need for compassion and emphasizes that listening is a key element of faith. This year, we will be challenged to truly listen to each other and to God. Through deep listening, we can expand our knowledge and understanding of the experiences of others which supports a culture of respect for human rights, equity, diversity, inclusion, and Indigenous education.

As always, health and safety remain a priority. We thank everyone for their cooperation as we have worked together to navigate the pandemic. At this time, the Ministry of Education and Chief Medical Officer of Health have advised that masks are welcome but not required for students, staff and visitors in schools, board offices, or on student transportation. We will continue to provide free high-quality masks for students to use, if they choose to wear a mask. It continues to be very important that everyone monitors their health daily. The COVID-19 self-assessment tool is regularly updated and continues to be available for use. To prevent the spread of illness, we remind you that students should not attend school if they fail the self-assessment screening tool or are feeling ill.

The involvement of parents and guardians in your child’s education journey contributes to their success. Stay informed by subscribing to the news and calendar sections on school websites for important updates and information, and upcoming events distributed throughout the school year. The Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) and your school’s Catholic School Council also provide great opportunities to engage with your school community through monthly meetings, events and activities.

On behalf of the Board of Trustees and Senior Administrative Team, we extend a warm welcome to everyone in our Durham Catholic learning community and wish you a safe and joyful return to school this September.

Yours in Catholic Education,

Morgan Ste. Marie Tracy Barill
Chair of the Board Director of Education

DCDSB 2023-2024 Professional Activity Days

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 20:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

Durham Catholic District School Board has Professional Activity (PA) days throughout the school year. During these non-instructional days, students do not attend school, while staff engage in professional learning and activities.

PA days are intended to improve student success and achievement. Staff have an opportunity to engage in training, review materials and research, collaborate to create lessons and activities, and share best practices.

Beginning in the 2023-2024 school year, boards of education in Ontario are required to post a detailed summary of Professional Activity (PA) days on our board or school websites. The requirements are outlined in Policy and Program Memorandum (PPM) 151.

We invite you to learn more about the Durham Catholic District School Board’s PA day activities at dcdsb.ca/PADays. Summary information will be posted to this webpage in advance of each PA day. Summary information for the PA day on August 31, 2023, is now available on this webpage. Please subscribe to this webpage to receive updates directly to your email.

If you have any questions about PA days, please contact your DCDSB home school.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

DCDSB Hosting Celebration in Honour of the Student Art Exhibit at the Robert McLaughlin Gallery

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 18:45:00 GMT

Durham Catholic District School Board is hosting a celebration in honour of the student art show on Tuesday, March 7, 2023, from 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. at the Robert McLaughlin Art Gallery.

The DCDSB’s art exhibit, Kaleidoscope, will be available for the public to view free-of-charge at the Robert McLaughlin Gallery from February 24, 2023, until March 12, 2023. This year’s show features over 90 pieces of artwork created by students in Kindergarten to Grade 12.

Visit the Gallery’s website at rmg.on.ca for hours of operation. Admission to the RMG is always free.

Residential School Mass Grave Recovery

Fri, 27 May 2022 14:00:00 GMT

Today marks one year since the mass grave recovery at a former Residential School site in Kamloops, British Columbia. Over the past year unmarked graves continue to be identified. To date, 16 former Residential School sites that have been investigated with ground-penetrating radar and 2,008 Indigenous peoples' graves have been recovered. This is only a small number of sites considering there were 139 Residential Schools in Canada between 1870 - 1996. Former Residential School sites in Ontario are starting to be investigated this year.

We continue to mourn the loss of Indigenous peoples' lives as more unmarked graves at former residential school sites across Canada are documented by Indigenous communities. We are committed to learning about the truths of the genocide in Canada.

We have compiled resources for further learning as well as mental health resources for Indigenous students below:

Residential School in Canada Information and Resources
Mental Health Resources for Indigenous Students
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action. Note: 70-76 speak specifically towards unmarked graves and burials at residential school sites.

DCDSB Celebrates Catholic Education Week and Mental Health Week from May 6-10, 2024

Thu, 02 May 2024 13:00:00 GMT

During the first week of May, the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) celebrates Catholic Education Week, which recognizes the significant contribution that Catholic education has made to the community, the province and to Canada. This week is also designated as Mental Health Week, which aims to raise awareness and promote and protect mental health.

This year, the Ontario Catholic School Trustee’s Association (OCSTA) has chosen We are Called to Love as the theme for Catholic Education Week. This theme is based on the scripture passage: “If we love one another, God lives in us.” (1 John 4:12)

“During the 2023-2024 school year, DCDSB has been embracing our own related spiritual theme, Speaking With the Heart,” said Tracy Barill, DCDSB Director of Education. “This theme serves as an invitation to reflect on what it means to communicate ‘according to God's style’, welcoming others as ‘heart speaks to heart.’”

There are many connections between Catholic Education Week and the Mental Health Week theme, Compassion Connects, which was selected by the Canadian Mental Health Association.

In recognition of these important weeks, DCDSB is pleased to present an interactive webpage for students and families. This webpage includes faith-related activities that can be completed at home or in the classroom, mental health and well-being strategies and suggested reading lists.

DCDSB will be recognizing Catholic Education Week and Mental Health Week through the following events:

Monday May 6, 2024
- System-Wide Mass and Distinguished Catholic Educator and Leader Award Ceremony. This year, recipients of the Distinguished Catholic Educator and Leader Awards will be honoured following the System-Wide Mass at St. Bernadette Parish (21 Bayly St., E., Ajax) beginning at 4:30 p.m.
Tuesday, May 7, 2024
- Suicide Prevention and Life Promotion Literacy for School Staff training is being offered to all educators. This 3-hour workshop was developed by School Mental Health Ontario and is intended to develop an understanding of suicide prevention at school and the role that all school staff play in keeping students safe.
Wednesday, May 8, 2024
- The Catholic Education Week Provincial Mass will be celebrated by the Most Rev. Gerard Bergie, Bishop of St. Catharines and President of the Assembly of Catholic Bishops of Ontario. Mass will be live-streamed from the Cathedral of St. Catherine of Alexandria beginning of 11:00 a.m.
- The student trustee leadership team at the Ontario Catholic School Trustees’ Association is hosting a virtual Ontario Catholic Student Youth Day.
- Parents, guardians and caregivers are invited to join us for Prepare, Prevent and Respond, a virtual workshop presented by DCDSB Student Services Staff. This workshop will explore some frequently asked questions that will help you prepare, prevent, and respond if your child or adolescent is experiencing thoughts of suicide. Please click here to join the Zoom meeting.
Thursday, May 9, 2024
- Grade 9-12 students from all DCDSB secondary schools will be meeting for the Student Mental Health Leadership Summit.
- St. Teresa of Calcutta Catholic School will be hosting the school’s 25^th Anniversary Celebration at 6:30 p.m.
Friday, May 10, 2024
- Students and staff are encouraged to wear green to raise awareness and show support of mental health.

To celebrate this significant week, DCDSB will be hosting special activities at all grade levels, including prayer celebrations and mental health workshops for educators and families. Students, families and community members are invited to visit our Catholic Education Week and Mental Health Week webpage for more information.

Year of Love: 2020-2021 Annual Report

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 13:30:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is pleased to share the Director’s 2020-2021 Annual Report to the Community.

In support of DCDSB’s Stewards of Sustainability initiative and reducing the circulation of paper-based materials, the report was once again produced electronically and can be viewed online at www.dcdsb.ca/AnnualReport2020-2021.

The report reflects the board's spiritual theme, A Year of Love, and celebrates the work that took place within the second year of the Discovery 2023: Renewing the Vision Strategic Plan. The Senior Administrative Team speak to the strategic priorities which include:

Witnessing Faith
Celebrating Inclusion and Well-Being
Teaching and Learning
Expanding Pathways
Managing Resources

The plan also provides an overview of the board’s accountability plan highlighting the work and learning that has taken place during the pandemic, notable achievements, financial overview, and the board’s commitments to Excellence, Equity and Engagement.

DCDSB Black Mental Health Day Event

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Not Just Surviving: Centering Black Mental Health

Date: Monday, March 6, 2023
Time: 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Please note that doors open at 6:00 p.m. with community service booths set up to provide information to attendees.
Location: Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School (1375 Harwood Ave N., Ajax)

March 6, 2023 marks the fourth annual Black Mental Health Day, recognized by communities across Ontario. On Black Mental Health Day, we are called to recognize the ongoing impact on mental health that results from experiences of anti-Black racism. It is also a day to raise awareness of the specific mental health needs of Black communities across Ontario.

This year DCDSB proudly presents:

Dionne Sinclair
Vice President Clinical Operations & Chief Nursing Executive
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH)

Having lived experience as an immigrant child from Jamaica, Dionne will share her journey from these beginnings to her current role as the Vice President and Chief Nursing Executive at CAMH. Dionne will be speaking about the impact of racism on the mental health of Black and other racialized individuals and the pervasive reality of anti-Black racism in Canada, discussing both the current state and what to do about it.

Maryanne Oketch
Winner of Survivor, Season 42

As we become more aware of the inequalities that members of minority communities face, it is important to understand what the systemic issues are that lead to injustice. In this talk, Maryanne will draw from her personal life experiences to describe how she overcame the challenges and roadblocks that came her way, and the support that she had while doing so.

February 2021 Issue of the Celebrating Student Success Newsletter

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 17:30:00 GMT

Read the latest issue of the Celebrating Student Success Newsletter. This month’s issue features stories on:

Expanding Pathways: Collaboration Between Industry, Education and Labour will Spark the Nuclear Welding Workforce of the Future; Build a Career you Wouldn't Trade - Discover OYAP.
Experiential Learning: Students Explore Environmental Sustainability Through Volunteering with Friends of the Rouge Watershed.
Indigenous Education: Students at Monsignor Philip Coffey Catholic School Learn About Water Activism.
Student Voice: Students from St. Joseph Catholic School (Oshawa) win Public Service Announcement Contest; Applying 21st Century Skills at Cooperative Education Placements; myBlueprint Culminating Task.
Adult and Continuing Education: Raising Healthy Children Program.
Upcoming Events.

Stay connected and sign up to receive the newsletter directly in your inbox.

Now Available - DCPIC's Spring Newsletter

Fri, 12 May 2017 15:15:00 GMT

For the latest news and upcoming parent engagement events, please read the spring issue of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee's (DCPIC) newsletter attached below.

Durham College Innovation Camp

Thu, 06 Jun 2019 19:00:00 GMT

Please see the flyer below from one of our community partners. Durham College is offering a Summer Camp called "Camp Invention" for children 9 to 14 years of age. This camp is a great opportunity for children to experience hands-on STEM activities. If you are interested in this camp, please register at www.durhamcollege.ca/summercamps.

Minister of Education's Letter to Parents and Guardians

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 15:45:00 GMT

Please find attached a letter to families from the Minister of Education.

November's Issue of Celebrating Student Success Newsletter

Mon, 07 Nov 2016 17:15:00 GMT

Read the latest issue of our Celebrating Student Success newsletter.

This issue features articles on:

Student Summit – Day of Community;
Power of Kindness;
History Comes Alive;
Student’s tour Queen’s Park;
STEM Tasks at St. John Bosco Catholic School;
Take Your Kids to Work Day;
Robotics in the Classroom; and
Callum’s Creations on display at Whitby Station Art Gallery.

Stay connected and sign up to receive the newsletter directly in your inbox.

School Year Calendar Survey

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 21:15:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) would like to invite parents, guardians and caregivers to provide their input on the 2023-2024 school year calendar. If you would like to submit your preference regarding the first day of the school year, and the 2024 March Break, we invite you to do so by completing this brief survey.

Please click here to complete the 2023-2024 school year survey.

The survey will close at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 10, 2023.

We thank you in advance for your input. We will share the finalized 2023-2024 school year calendars with families once they have been approved by the Ministry of Education.

Heat Warning Issued for Durham Region

Sun, 22 Jun 2025 20:30:00 GMT

Dear Families,

Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for the Durham Region, with high temperatures anticipated in the coming days. We want to assure you that our schools are prepared and will be taking steps to keep students and staff safe.

Across the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB), schools vary in their cooling systems - some are fully air-conditioned, some are partially air-conditioned, and others do not have air conditioning. This means that some classrooms may become quite warm during the day.

To help your child stay cool and safe, please:

Dress them in light, breathable clothing
Send them with a hat and sunscreen
Make sure they bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated

When a heat warning is in place, schools will follow the established protocols to protect the health and safety of students and staff, which includes:

Encouraging students and staff to drink water regularly
Using fans, where available, throughout the school
Closing blinds or curtains to block direct sunlight
Moving classes to cooler areas of the school when possible
Limiting physical activities like gym, sports, and outdoor recess, along with exposure to the sun and hot environments
Increasing rest periods and water breaks

Please be aware of the signs of heat-related illness, which can include headache, nausea, dizziness, thirst, dark-colored urine, extreme tiredness, etc. Learn more about heat related illness and the symptoms to watch for at durham.ca/heat.

For more information about heat safety and current warnings, visit the Durham Region website at durham.ca/heat.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your school office.

By working together, we can continue to maintain safe and welcoming learning and working environments for our Durham Catholic learning community.

Sincerely,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Supporting your Child's Learning through Assessment, Evaluation and Reporting

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 20:00:00 GMT

The primary purpose of assessment and evaluation is to improve student learning. Growing Success, Assessment, Evaluation and Reporting in Ontario Schools, acknowledges that assessment for, as and of learning is key to student engagement and success.

Assessment of learning or evaluation occurs at particular points in the school year or learning cycle. While communication about student learning and progress should occur on an ongoing basis using a variety of methods (ex. phone calls, newsletters, websites, student work etc.) in accordance with the Growing Success policy, formal communication to parents will happen at three times during the school year. All students from Grades 1-8 will receive a fall progress report card and two provincial report cards, one in mid-winter and one at the end of the school year.

The Progress Report Card

• places a strong emphasis on the development of students' learning skills and work habits that we know are essential for success. Students' achievement of six learning skills and work habits will be shown on the front page of the progress report card. These are:

Responsibility,
Organization,
Independent Work,
Collaboration,
Initiative, and
Self-Regulation.

The development of these skills and habits will be reported as "excellent", "good", "satisfactory" or "needs improvement". A space is also provided for teacher comments about students' strengths, areas for improvement and next steps;

• encourages early and ongoing communication between you and your child's teacher;

• allows time to conference with your child’s teacher to discuss next steps for improvement;

• continues to report on all subjects, but instead of assigning a grade or mark, it tells you how well your child is progressing: “very well”, “well” or “with difficulty”;

• in the event that a student has not yet received instruction in a subject/strand, the teacher will check the “not applicable” box;

• highlights strengths and areas to improve before evaluations are completed; and includes comments from your child's teacher that are personalized, clear and meaningful;

• will be sent home on November 8, 2021.

Provincial Report Cards

This year, the first Provincial Report Card will be sent home on February 7, 2022 and the final Report Card will be sent home on June 27, 2022 Your child’s teacher will be sending home information on conference scheduling.

Webinar: EQAO Math Night for Parents and Guardians

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 14:30:00 GMT

Parents, guardians and caregivers are invited to join a free live webinar hosted by the Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO). In this session, EQAO staff will discuss math questions that Ontario students encounter when they participate in Ontario’s large-scale assessments. These assessments are taken by all Ontario students in Grades 3, 6 and 9. During the webinar, EQAO staff will show how these math questions help assess the skills students are learning in their math classes. Staff will also share valuable insights from the past three years of assessment results, which can help parents and guardians support their children’s math learning.

Registration for this webinar is required. Please click the link to register: https://eqao.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_5puRqI8uQJypIaHgBYoBMw

Learn about School Bus Safety

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 20:15:00 GMT

The Durham Regional Police Services in partnership with Ministry of Transportation and First Group are offering School Bus Safety sessons for elementary students.

Sessions are free to attend.

Dates:

September 1, 2022 or
September 2, 2022

Times: 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., or 1:00 p.m.

Location: Durham Kids Safety Village

Reserve your spot today by email Constable Ford at 3564@DRPS.ca

Please indicate your child's name and which date and time you will be attending.

Youth and Mental Health Night

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 13:45:00 GMT

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) is hosting a Youth and Mental Health Night on Monday, May 12, 2025, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School (1020 Dryden Blvd, Whitby).

Join the DCPIC for an enlightening event where students and families will hear from guest speaker and psychotherapist, Roxanne Francis, MSW, RSW. Expert practitioners from Dean's Mobility Training will also provide insight on mental and physical health. In addition, families are welcome to participate in practical, hands on activities, including a breathing exercise led by Certified Breathing Coach, Vince Caputo.

There will be a giveaway for every attendee! Please register to confirm your attendance by filling out the registration form.

2025 Student Walk for Hope in Support of the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 19:00:00 GMT

A heartfelt thank you to our Durham Catholic learning community! Throughout June 2025, our incredible students, families, and staff participated in the Walk for Hope in support of the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation.

Donations for the Walk for Hope have raised $12,075! These funds will help to provide essential services to DCDSB students and families in need. 100% of the donations go directly to support the initiatives of the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation. This financial assistance supports student well-being and achievement by providing basic needs to children and families in Durham Region, enabling them to work towards reaching their full potential.

A special note of gratitude to the DCDSB staff that helped organize the individual school events.

About the Walk for Hope
Schools across the Durham Catholic District School Board participated in the Student Walk for Hope in support of the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation in June 2025.

Students and staff were invited to donate “virtual” toonies to support Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation initiatives. Funds collected will assist the Foundation in helping children and families in the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Recognizing the importance of supporting the whole student in mind, body and spirit to foster positive learning outcomes, the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation was established to ensure that students are able to attend school with the basic daily necessities of life provided. In addition, the Foundation supports student well-being and achievement by providing basic needs to the most vulnerable children and families in Durham Region, enabling them to work towards reaching their full potential.

All donations will be made through School Cash Online. 100% of the donations go directly to support the initiatives of the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation.

Thank you for supporting the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation.

Kindergarten Registration for September 2022 Now Open

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 14:00:00 GMT

Register for Kindergarten
Begin your child’s journey at the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB)!

Register your child for Kindergarten. The online registration process for a September 2022 start in Kindergarten begins on January 11, 2022.

Please follow the following steps to register for Kindergarten:

Use the Find My Local Catholic School tool to find schools designated as the home school in your area;
Create an OSAS account, or log in to your existing account;
Log in to your OSAS account, and select “Regular School – New Application”.

If you need help registering online, please contact your local DCDSB school. Contact information for our schools can be found on our website.

Age Requirements
Your child must meet the following age requirements to enter Kindergarten in September 2022:

To register for Year 1/Junior Kindergarten, your child must be 4 years old by December 31, 2022.
To register for Year 2/Senior Kindergarten, your child must be 5 years old by December 31, 2022.

Kindergarten Resources
We have many resources available to assist families with the transition to Kindergarten:

DCDSB Kindergarten resources and further information can be found on our website
Kindergarten Registration Information
Navigating Kindergarten Zoom Series - families are invited to join us for a live virtual parent/guardian series to prepare you and your child for Kindergarten.
Our Kindergarten Program – with information about our program, Special Education, English Language Learners and Summer Rays program.
Parent/Guardian Kindergarten Resources

School Cash Online

Wed, 06 Sep 2017 16:45:00 GMT

School Cash Online is an easy to use, safe way to pay for your children's school fees. Now, with a few clicks, you can pay for your child's yearbook, class trips and so much more from anywhere, anytime. All you have to do is register an account, attach your children and in no time you will be able to make payments online.

Registration for School Cash Online is available by clicking on the "Online School Purchase" button located on homepage of your child's school website.

NOTE: You will need your child/children's OEN number in order to attach them to your profile and complete the registration process. The OEN number is available on your child's report card.

Once you click on "Online School Purchase" from your school's website, select "Get Started Today". Take a look at the video to learn more.

Parent Survey - French as a Second Language (FSL) programs

Wed, 05 Apr 2017 13:15:00 GMT

If you have children currently in Core French, Extended French or French Immersion in either our elementary or secondary schools, we kindly ask that you complete this the short survey. Responses will be completely anonymous.

Thank you in advance for your time and participation.

Register for Adult Education Programs with Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 14:45:00 GMT

Register for Adult Education Programs with Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre! Our Adult Education sites in Ajax, Whitby and our new Oshawa location offer Adult Education, Mature Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (mPLAR) and Specialized Training Programs for Pathways to Employment and Post-Secondary Education. Adults who are 18 years of age or older and out of a regular secondary school can register for a variety of programs including:

• Adult Day School and Correspondence to earn credits for the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or to upgrade courses for entrance to college, university or apprenticeship;

• Adult Dual Credit Program with Durham College;

• Adult Upgrading program focused on Literacy and Basic Skills;

• Child Care Assistant Training Program;

• Custodial Services Training Program;

• English as a Second Language courses for adults (non-credit);

• Microsoft Office Specialist Training Program;

• Personal Support Worker Program;

• Work-4-Credits Program (Cooperative Education); and

• Young Parent School Program at the Rose of Durham (Oshawa).

Oshawa Campus - We’ve Moved!

The Oshawa Campus can now be found at 700 Stevenson Road North, at the South East corner of Monsignor Paul Dwyer CHS. The entrance for the Oshawa Campus is via Rossland Road.

For more information, visit our website at www.con-ed.ca, check out our Program Guide and/or contact us at:

Ajax – (905) 683-7713 or cont.ed@dcdsb.ca

Oshawa – (905) 438-0570 or credit.reg@dcdsb.ca

All are welcome!

Suits for Youth

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 16:30:00 GMT

The Durham Regional Police Service in partnership with the Oshawa Center, City Councillor Rick Kerr, and community partners have teamed up to collect suits for youth to wear at upcoming proms/graduations and for future job interviews, etc.. It is wonderful to see the expansion of their traditional prom dress collection to include all genders. Please consider donating clothing items such as suits, jackets, pants, shirts, ties, bow ties and accessories to this worthy cause.

Donations are being accepted at any Durham Regional Police Service Station or at the Guest Services located at the Oshawa Center shopping mall, 419 King St. West. The “Suits For Youths” event will take place at the Oshawa Center on April 18th and 19^th, 2018 from 3:30pm to 6:30pm.

Contact suitsforyouths@drps.ca for any information, assistance, or donations.

Celebrating 50 years of Catholic education

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 19:30:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is pleased to welcome students and staff to the 2018-2019 school year, marking the board’s 50^th year serving families in the cities of Pickering, Ajax, Whitby and Oshawa, and the townships of Brock, Scugog and Uxbridge.

“This milestone year speaks to the sense of belonging and community that we share in our schools where our Catholic values are thriving,” said Anne O’Brien, Director of Education. “For five decades, we have grown as a system and as a community, celebrating our past and embracing the future as we continue to build on a model for student success that is based on developing the mind, body and spirit of learners of all ages.”

Throughout the year, the special milestone will be highlighted at various events, including a 50^th anniversary Mass celebrated by His Eminence, Thomas Cardinal Collins, 50^th Day of School, family picnic, book release documenting the history of the board, and other activities. Event details and historical information can be found at dcdsb.ca/50years.

“We are excited about the ongoing celebrations that will take place in our schools and Catholic Education Centre throughout the year,” said Tricia Chapman, Chair of the Board. “It is with gratitude to all of our families, parishes, community partners and supporters that we acknowledge our significant anniversary and continue on our successful journey. We encourage all of our partners to join us in a year of joy and celebration,” she said.

Register for Summer Camp Programs today!

Tue, 22 May 2018 17:00:00 GMT

The Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre provides a wide selection of summer courses for students and adults. We are still accepting registrations for the following programs and courses:

Elementary Summer Programs (Non-Credit):

Summer Camps for Literacy and Numeracy for students who have completed Grades 6, 7 and 8
Elementary International Languages
French - Kindergarten to Grade 3 Students
Head Start program for students transitioning to Grade 9 at High School

For questions about elementary summer programs, call our Ajax Campus at (905) 683-7713. To register online, please click on the links above and download a registration form.

High School Courses (for Credit)

The link below will take you to course lists and outline registration details:

Grade 8 Reach Ahead Program (Students can earn a Gr. 9 credit during the summer.

For questions about high school credit classes, call the Oshawa Campus (905) 438-0570 or visit us online at www.con-ed.dcdsb.ca

Complete DCDSB's French as a Second Language Survey

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 16:00:00 GMT

We are seeking information from parents and guardians about French as a Second Language (FSL) programs in the Durham Catholic District School Board. Responses from this survey will help provide a better understanding of FSL awareness across the system and improve parental engagement in our FSL programs. This information will be used to further support our FSL programs for students.

If you have children currently in Core French, Extended French or French Immersion in either the elementary or secondary panel,we kindly ask that you complete the short survey that follows. Responses will be completely anonymous. Click here to complete the survey https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/XZD7YSQ

Thank you in advance for your time and participation.

Equity Invitational Learning Series - Session One - November 23, 2023

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 19:45:00 GMT

Durham Catholic District School Board, in partnership with its Anti-Black Racism and Black Excellence Advisory Committee, is pleased to present the Equity Invitational Learning Series, focused on identifying and removing barriers, and improving student outcomes.

The first session is taking place on Thursday, November 23, 2023, and features D. Tyler Robinson, OCT, who will be discussing Deconstructing Anti-Black Racism: Providing Overdue Outcomes for our Kids.

Please see the attached flyer for more details and to register. You can also find information and register here.

DCDSB Kindergarten Registration Opens January 12, 2023

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 17:45:00 GMT

Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) Kindergarten registration for the 2023-2024 school year opens on January 12, 2023.

Begin your child's faith-filled journey at the DCDSB!

Your child must be turning 4 years of age by December 31, 2023 to register for Year 1/Junior Kindergarten or 5 years of age by December 31, 2023 to register for Year 2/Senior Kindergarten.

Complete your online registration by visiting dcdsb.ca/Kindergarten

DCDSB News: December 2021

Fri, 03 Dec 2021 19:00:00 GMT

DCDSB News: December 2021
A monthly newsletter to keep parents and guardians informed of DCDSB news, events, and highlights.

Message from the Chair of the Board and Director of Education

As we enter the season of Advent, we allow time for silence, prayer and anticipation of the birth of our Saviour.

During these unprecedented times, we realize how special it is to participate in Advent activities in our schools and parishes. As a community of faith, our schools and classrooms will continue to offer opportunities to celebrate and reflect as we wait in joyful hope for the coming of Jesus. Students and staff will be encouraged to participate in activities such as charitable acts, virtual reflections, and classroom prayers as they prepare their heart for the birth of our Saviour.

To our friends and partners who celebrate nondenominational traditions, may you find peace, love, and joy in your hearts this holiday season.

Click here to read the full message on our website.

We look forward to seeing all of our elementary and secondary students on Monday, January 3, 2022. Please note that our schools are closed from December 20 - December 31, 2021.

Grade 1 French Immersion Registration Now Open!

Registration for Grade 1 French Immersion is now open! All interested Year 2 Kindergarten/Senior Kindergarten students are invited to register for French Immersion at the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB).

Registration for Grade 1 French Immersion is open from Friday, December 3, 2021 – Friday, January 14, 2022.

We have compiled some helpful resources below:

French Immersion Registration Information, including Frequently Asked Questions.

French Immersion programming at DCDSB, including our Grade 1 French Immersion Information Session video.

DCDSB French Immersion school listing and boundary maps.

Registration for French Immersion is completed online through OSAS. You will need to login to your OSAS account, and select “French Immersion New Application”.

If you have questions about French Immersion, or French as a Second Language (FSL) programs, please contact us at FrenchPrograms@dcdsb.ca or visit our website.

Regional Arts & Media Program

As a friendly reminder, there are only 10 days left to submit an application for the Regional Arts & Media Program, located at All Saints Catholic Secondary School in Whitby! This program serves students in Grade 7 - 12 and offers additional specialized instruction in the arts or media program area of their choice.

We are excited to invite all Grade 6 and Grade 8 students to apply now for a September 2022 start. If you have a passion for the arts we encourage you to apply – no prior experience is necessary.

Program areas include Dance, Instrumental Music, Media Arts, Performing Arts (Drama and Vocal Music), and Visual Arts.

Upcoming Key Dates:

October 11 – December 13, 2021: Online applications are open
January 26-28, 2022: Auditions

To learn more visit amp.dcdsb.ca or contact us at amp@dcdsb.ca.

Advent Activities

Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) invites you to participate in Advent activities with your family! We have created suggestions for daily activities in our online Advent calendar. Click here to view the Advent calendar.
DCDSB has also created a webpage with Advent calendars, prayers, retreats and reflections. Click here to view these Advent resources.

Student Spotlight

Welcome to Student Spotlight, an opportunity to meet and learn about our DCDSB students and how they are promoting Excellence, Equity and Engagement.

This month we are pleased to introduce Marysia G., a Grade 6 student at St. Marguerite D'Youville Catholic School in Whitby.

Please click here to view this month's Student Spotlight video with Marysia.

Support Ontario Youth: Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School

Students in Mr. Carnovale's classes at Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School in Whitby participated in Tools in the Trades workshops with Support Ontario Youth.

Click here to view the video.

DCDSB Indigenous Student Circle

Twelve students from DCDSB's Indigenous Student Circle came together to learn with Beedahbin Peltier about Indigenous plants and their medicinal properties on November 23, 2021. They also learned how to make tamarack tea and its benefits for our health. Students ranged from Grade 6 to Grade 12. Food was brought in and catered by Indigenish Catering, an Indigenous-owned catering business in Oshawa which is run by Chef Keriann Peacock.

COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics for Children Ages 5 to 11

On November 19, 2021, Health Canada approved the paediatric Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children aged 5 to 11. Beginning on November 23, the Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health and other health experts, began to offer the paediatric Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to children aged 5 to 11. Ontario is expected to receive more than 1,000,000 doses of paediatric Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines. This is enough to provide a first dose to all children in the 5 to 11 cohort in Ontario. The 5 to 11 vaccination roll out is the last major initiative to protect children, keep children in school, and get Ontario back on track to normalcy.

Durham Region Health Department has shared the following information regarding COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics for children ages 5 to 11. Vaccinating children will provide them with strong protection against COVID-19 and the highly contagious Delta variant. The vaccine will decrease serious illness and long-term effects from COVID-19, help keep schools open, and reduce the rare but serious complication called multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). Since children can be infected and not have any symptoms, vaccination will help protect other family members too, such as those who are too young to receive the vaccine yet or vulnerable elderly individuals. Please click here to view the full letter from the Durham Region Health Department.

Please note that there are no plans to have vaccines administered during school hours. Parents/Guardians who would like to book a COVID-19 vaccination for child should visit www.durham.ca/vaccineappointment or call 1-888-444-5113.

Updates from the Ontario Government

A couple of weeks ago, the Ontario government announced several updates for families. These updates include important information about:

Semester Schedule for Secondary Schools
Rapid Antigen Screening Kits – All Students
Travelling over the Christmas Break
COVID-19 Vaccinations for Students age 5 to 11 Years

These updates and further information can be found on our website.

Onsite Confirmation of Self-assessment Following the Christmas Break

All students and staff are required to conduct daily screening for symptoms of COVID-19 before attending school using the COVID-19 school screening tool. Please do not send your child(ren) to school if they have symptoms or have not passed the self-assessment.

The Ministry of Education has instructed Ontario School Boards to complete active screening for all students, staff, and visitors to our schools for the 10 days of school following the Christmas break (i.e. January 3 - 14, 2022) – similar to what was done in September.

More information on how to complete the active screening will be shared with families next week.

Minister of Long-Term Care Visits Archbishop Anthony Meagher’s Personal Support Worker (PSW) Training Program

On Friday, November 19^th, Ontario’s Minister of Long-Term Care, the Honourable Rod Phillips, paid a visit to Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre’s (CCEC) Oshawa Campus. After a brief tour of the campus, Minister Phillips joined the PSW day class to speak with staff and students about Ontario’s plan to increase staffing and beds in Long-Term Care facilities and to learn more the benefits of a PSW school board program. During the visit, PSW students demonstrated how to use a Hoyer lift, and the Minister participated in the hands-on activity, earning an honorary PSW Certification upon completion.

Stacey Ritchie, Principal of Archbishop Anthony Meagher CCEC, shared the following highlights with Minister Phillips:

The PSW program at Archbishop Anthony Meagher is well-established in the Durham Region and students have a proven, high success rate of employment upon completion.
Each year we provide four PSW day programs (6-month accelerated) and two part-time evening programs (10 months) in Ajax and Oshawa.
In 2021-2022 we are offering a new PSW program, PSW North, located in Port Perry (North Durham) to reach students in more remote and rural areas that are not serviced by the public colleges, to provide certified PSWs for LTC facilities in underserved areas.
In addition to training PSWs, we also facilitate Mature PLAR credits, OSSD completion and support for pathway planning to college or university nursing programs which provides solutions to Ontario’s healthcare staffing shortfalls.
Annually, 100 – 200 students achieve PSW accreditation through Archbishop Anthony Meagher CCEC with an over 90% completion rate.
Our program is less costly than a college program, which allows many students who experience financial burdens to have access to PSW training.

A former PSW student who is currently working in Long-Term Care, Yanick Mareus, gave a testimonial to how well the PSW program prepared her for employment. A special thank you to DCDSB Chair of the Board and Trustee, Morgan Ste. Marie and Superintendent Scott Grieve for representing the board and for their support during the Minister Phillip’s visit.

DCDSB is Hiring! Join Our Durham Catholic Team

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is hiring for various teaching and non-teaching positions. If you are interested in applying, visit our website at www.dcdsb.ca/careers and email your resume to HR@dcdsb.ca.

Upcoming Events

Important dates and upcoming events in December 2021 are listed below:

Dec. 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
Dec. 5 – Second Sunday of Advent
Dec. 5 – World Soil Day
Dec. 6 - National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women
Dec. 6-12 - Computer Science Week
Dec. 7 - Special Education Advisory Committee Meeting
Dec. 8 - The Immaculate Conception of The Blessed Virgin Mary
Dec. 10 - Human Rights Day
Dec. 12 - Third Sunday of Advent
Dec. 13 - Board meeting
Dec. 19 - Fourth Sunday of Advent
Dec. 20 - 31 - Christmas break
Dec. 24 - Christmas Eve
Dec. 25 - Christmas Day – Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord
January 1 - New Years Day
January 3 - School resumes (both elementary and secondary)
January 4 - Special Education Advisory Committee Meeting
January 6 - Epiphany
January 6 - Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee Meeting

Please visit our calendar for more important dates and upcoming events.

DCDSB to Introduce Grade 12 Indigenous Studies Course at All Secondary Schools

Wed, 25 May 2022 14:30:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) will be introducing the Grade 12 NDW 4M course, Contemporary Indigenous Issues and Perspectives in a Global Context, at all secondary schools beginning in the 2022-2023 school year.

Offering this Grade 12 course in all secondary schools responds to student voice and interest. After completing the Grade 11 compulsory English course, Understanding Contemporary First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Voices, students engaged in an optional survey which indicated that over 60% of students would be interested in taking a Grade 12 Indigenous Studies course.

The DCDSB’s Indigenous Education Circle has been involved and supports the expansion of this course offering. Of particular interest is that this course is a mixed-level course. Many students will have the opportunity to register and participate in this learning opportunity, thereby honouring many future pathway options.

The board’s Indigenous Education department will support DCDSB educators with implementing this course by providing professional development, training opportunities, and resources to educators. Indigenous Education community partners are at the centre of the planning process. Community partners are helping to gather information and resources in addition to making connections, both in a global and Canadian context.

“We are looking forward to expanding Indigenous Education course offerings at the DCDSB. This course is part of the DCDSB’s ongoing commitment to reconciliation, supporting Indigenous students and families, and walking the path together with Indigenous partners,” said Mariah O’Reilly, Superintendent of Education. “This course comes at such a crucial time as it focuses on social justice and building on an understanding from the Grade 11 Understanding Contemporary First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Voices course. Environmental racism, political injustice, intergenerational trauma, and efforts towards reconciliation will be a part of the course curriculum”.

“It is important for Indigenous youth to see Indigenous voices being centered both within the course materials and in conversations with community partners. It is a space for Indigenous youth to learn about themselves and share their voices and for non-Indigenous youth to learn about active allyship,” said Karli Robertson, Senior Manager of Indigenous Education.

This course will reflect global Indigenous peoples’ worldviews and perspectives and allow students to recognize the connections to Canada and act upon their responsibilities as global citizens.

The Durham Catholic District School Board is set to be the only board in Ontario to offer and run this course at all secondary schools in the 2022-2023 school year.

More information about the DCDSB Indigenous Education program can be found on our website.

Now Open - Kindergarten Registration

Mon, 15 Jan 2018 19:00:00 GMT

You are invited to register your child for Kindergarten at one of the Durham Catholic schools across the region. Your child must be turning 4 years of age by December 31, 2018 in order to enrol.

Step 1: Visit dcdsb.ca between January 15-19, 2018 to initiate the online registration process. For questions, email admissions@dcdsb.ca

Step 2: Call your local Catholic school to make an appointment to complete your registration in person during the week of January 22 to 26, 2018.

Make your child care arrangements now!
Our schools offer a variety of child care services. For information on child care programs, call 905-576-6150 ext. 22172 or email: childcare@dcdsb.ca

Masks Required for Kindergarten Students

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 18:30:00 GMT

Dear Kindergarten Parents and Guardians:

As a Catholic School Board, the care of our children, especially the youngest and most vulnerable members of our community is of utmost importance. Throughout the pandemic, we have always tried to carefully implement the procedures recommended to us to secure the health and safety of our students and staff and to lower the transmission of COVID-19 in the community.

Over the past several weeks, the overwhelming surge of the Omicron variant has resulted in record numbers of COVID-19 cases in our region and across the province. This has led to a review of our practices as we move toward the re-opening of schools for in person learning on Monday, January 17, 2022.

On Thursday, January 13, 2022, at a Special Board Meeting, as part of our commitment to the health and safety of students and staff, Trustees in Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) approved a motion to extend the masking requirements that have been in place for all students from Grade 1 to Grade 12 to now include all Kindergarten students in Year One and Year Two.

Over the past two years, we have found that many of our Kindergarten students have already opted to wear masks at school. As of Monday, January 17, 2022, all Kindergarten students will be required to wear non-medical masks or face coverings while indoors at school. This includes during classes, in hallways, and on school busses. Under the supervision of their educators, masks may be temporarily removed indoors while seated and eating or drinking. Although not required, all students are strongly encouraged to wear masks outdoors, especially when physical distancing cannot be safely maintained.

While we recognize that this is not ideal, conversations with our local Public Health Department and Chief Medical Officer of Health have led us to believe that our current situation warrants this additional measure being put in place. Ultimately, we want to do everything we can to ensure our schools remain open for in-person learning as we are aware of the important social, emotional, physical and psychological benefits of face-to-face learning and social interactions for our students.

Students are strongly encouraged to wear high-quality three-ply cloth masks. All students will be provided with two 3-ply reusable masks upon the return to school on January 17, 2022.

The Region of Durham has compiled information and tips on ways families can support their children in wearing a mask. Please see Wearing a Mask 101: Tips for Parents.

The DCDSB recognizes its duty to accommodate students and staff with medical or other prevalent conditions that may prevent or limit the wearing of face coverings/masks. Please see Mask/Face Covering Accommodations and Exemptions for further details.

For further information on the return to in-school learning on January 17, 2022, please visit the DCDSB Return to Learning webpage.

We thank you for your ongoing partnership and efforts towards keeping our Catholic learning community safe.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

DCPIC Newsletter - Fall 2024

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 13:15:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

The latest issue of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) newsletter is now available!

This issue of the newsletter includes:

A Message from the Chair;
Recap of the Financial Literacy Parent Night;
Save the Date for the Upcoming Advent Craft Night;
A look back at the DCPIC Commissioning Mass;
Information for Sharing; and
Upcoming Meetings.

For more information about the committee, please visit?dcpic.ca?or email?chair@dcpic.ca.?

Yours in Faith,

Christine Santos,
Chair, Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee

Honouring our Veterans: A DCDSB Community Tribute

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Throughout the month of November, the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) pays our respects to the over 2.3 million Canadians who have served our country, and continue to serve, in times of war, conflict and peace. On Indigenous Veterans Day on November 8, and Remembrance Day on November 11, we pay tribute to all those who have fought for Canada in the First and Second World Wars, the Korean War, and all who have served since then.

In honour of Indigenous Veterans Day and Remembrance Day, we invite members of our Durham Catholic learning community to share the name(s) of those whose service you will be thinking of this November. The names will be displayed on the board’s website and on the digital sign outside of the DCDSB Catholic Education Centre (650 Rossland Rd. W, Oshawa, ON), from November 8-12, 2025.

If you would like to participate, please complete the form by 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, November 4, 2025.

Click here to complete the form.

In addition to this community tribute to our veterans, students and staff across our schools will be participating in liturgies, learning, and activities to express gratitude and respect for all Veterans, including those who gave their lives to protect the freedoms we have today.

Let us never forget their sacrifices and ensure we keep their legacies alive.

Sincerely,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Elementary Summer School Programs

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 18:30:00 GMT

Registration will open for the following summer school programs on Monday, March 27, 2023 at 9:00 a.m.:

Literacy and Math including French Immersion for Grades 6, 7, & 8

Session 1: July 4 – 14, 2023

Session 2: July 17 – 28, 2023

This online summer program is designed for students who would benefit from additional practice and assistance in literacy and/or math to ease their transition into the next grade. Students will participate in engaging lessons to meet their individual needs and learning styles. This program is non-credit.

There is an in-person option available for the Math program.

Registrations are due by June 23, 2023.

Literacy and Numeracy Camps for Grades 6, 7 & 8

In-person camps are offered for students who are completing Grades 6, 7 & 8. Students will develop their literacy and numeracy skills through engaging and fun hands-on experiences. Camp descriptions, location and registration details are available for each camp:

Reach Ahead High School Credit - Online (July 4 – 27, 2023)

Reach Ahead High School Credit summer courses are available for current Grade 8 students who will be attending a DCDSB secondary school in September:

Introduction to Business (BBI 1O)
Exploring Family Studies – Transition to High School (HIF 1O)
Expressions of First Nations, Metis and Inuit Cultures (NAC 1O)
U.P. (Ultimate Potential) Math (GLS 1O)

Registrations are due by June 23, 2023.

Elementary International Languages Program (July 4 – July 28, 2023)

We offer free summer International and Heritage Language classes for elementary students currently registered in JK to Grade 8.

Interested parents and students are asked to complete the online form here:

Elementary International Languages Program

French for Kindergarten to Grade 3 (July 4 – July 28, 2023)

Students who are currently enrolled in Kindergarten to Grade 3 are invited to register for French language classes during the summer. The cost for this program is $190.

Interested parents and students are asked to visit our webpage for complete registration and payment details: French Kindergarten to Grade 3

Head Start Program(August 21 – 24, 2023)

The Head Start Program is available to all Grade 8 students going into Grade 9 at one of our Durham Catholic District School Board high schools. The program involves a review of literacy and numeracy skills and provides students with a preview of the Grade 9 curriculum for Mathematics and English. Study Skills, Health and Well-Being are also integrated into the program.

Interested parents and students are asked to complete the online form here:

Head Start Program Registration

Registrations are due by June 23, 2023.

Students are eligible to register for more than one non-credit summer school program, as long as the programs are on different weeks (i.e. a student cannot register for the Math Program and Digital Literacy Camp at the same time if they are during the same week, but they can register for both if the sessions do not overlap).

If a student registers for a Reach Ahead High School Credit (July 4 – 27, 2023), they are not able to register for a non-credit program because the weeks will overlap in July.

If you have any questions about the non-credit literacy/numeracy programs, please contact cont.ed@dcdsb.ca or call (905) 683-7713.

For questions about the Reach Ahead High School Credit Program or Head Start, please contact credit.reg@dcdsb.ca or call (905) 438-0570.

All summer school information can be found on the website www.con-ed.ca.

Thank you for your interest in summer school. We look forward to supporting your child’s education.

Sincerely,

Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre
Durham Catholic District School Board

Catholic Education: Learning and Living in Faith

Letter from Dr. Kyle, Commissioner & Medical Officer of Health, Region of Durham

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 20:45:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

With the colder weather upon us and the increase in cold, flu and viruses, we are sharing the following letter from Dr. Robert Kyle, Commissioner & Medical Officer of Health at the Region of Durham highlighting the measures that all Ontarians are asked to take to prevent the spread of illness.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

Multi-Year Accessibility Plan - We Want Your Input!

Wed, 29 May 2024 18:30:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is creating a new Multi-Year Accessibility Plan, and we want your input! As a member of our Durham Catholic community, your feedback on what we are currently doing well, and ways we can improve to support accessible learning and working environments for all students and staff, is important to us.

Our previous Multi-Year Accessibility Plan can be found on our website. The Multi-Year Accessibility Plan identifies measurable goals across the pillars of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA) and, together with the Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation, supports the rights of equal opportunity for persons with disabilities by identifying, removing and preventing barriers to access.

This plan focuses on the five standards in the AODA:

Customer Service;
Information and Communication;
Employment;
Built Environment; and
Transportation.

Please know that we recognize that our new plan will evolve as we learn and adapt to changing communities. What remains unchanged is our deep respect for the human rights, dignity and respect for the human person. We are committed to advancing the efforts of the Accessibility Advisory Committee to improve equity and access to services and facilities. Through the commitments in this Multi-Year Accessibility Plan, we can provide an environment that supports all students, staff and our broader community.

We invite you to submit any questions, comments, or considerations for the new Multi-Year Accessibility Plan by completing this form.

Click here to submit your feedback.

The deadline to submit feedback is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, June 14, 2024.

October 24 is Dress Purple Day

Fri, 18 Oct 2019 13:00:00 GMT

In recognition of Dress Purple Day on October 24, 2019, students across Durham Region are participating in various activities to raise awareness about Child Abuse Prevention Month in partnership with Durham Children’s Aid Society, the Durham Catholic District School Board, Durham District School Board and community childcare centres.

As key partners in caring for kids, schools and Children’s Aid Societies work closely together on this day to help children understand their rights to safety and well-being, and how to ask the community for help if they need support. On Dress Purple Day, schools, teachers, and children are encouraged to wear purple and participate in group activities that highlight a community that works together to care for kids and families.

Register for Summer Camp or Summer School Courses

Thu, 28 Mar 2019 13:00:00 GMT

Summer school/camp registration is now open! Our Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre provides a wide selection of summer programs for elementary and secondary students including:

Elementary Summer Programs (Non-Credit)

Summer Camps for Literacy and Numeracy for students who have completed Grades 6, 7 and 8
Elementary International Languages
French - Kindergarten to Grade 3 Students
Head Start program for students transitioning to Grade 9 at High School

For questions about elementary summer programs, call our Ajax Campus at (905) 683-7713. To register online, please click on the links above and download a registration form.

High School Courses (for Credit)

The links below will take you to course lists and outline registration details:

Accelerated and eLearning Courses (Gr. 9-12)
Grade 8 Reach Ahead Program (Gr. 9 credit)
Grade 9 and 10 Credit Recovery Courses
Grade 11 & 12 Credit Recovery Courses
Summer Cooperative Education

For questions about high school credit classes, call the Oshawa Campus (905) 438-0570 or visit us online at www.con-ed.dcdsb.ca

New to Canada? Orientation Program for Students and Families

Wed, 04 Jul 2018 18:00:00 GMT

New to Canada? Have questions about education in Ontario?

Register for a free orientation program to help students and families. Call SWIS Durham Office at 905-686-2661 ext. 122 to register.

Orientation program will be held on:

Monday, August 20, 2018
Location: St. Bernadette Catholic School
41 Bayly Street East, Ajax
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Information about the COVID-19 Vaccine for Children 5 - 11 years old

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 21:45:00 GMT

The following information is being shared with parent(s) and guardian(s) from the Durham Region Health Department.

February 17, 2022

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Thank you for all that you are doing to keep your family healthy and to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 in our schools and the community.

Vaccination continues to be an important protection measure against severe illness and hospitalization due to COVID-19. To date, over 54 % of our Durham residents 5 to 11 years have received their first dose and over 32 % are fully vaccinated.

COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. However, if you are still considering the vaccine and have unanswered questions, please consider reaching out to discuss your uncertainties to receive the information needed to make a decision.

Sick Kids COVID-19 Vaccine Consult Service offers phone consultations with a knowledgeable health-care professional from SickKids who will listen to your questions and help you make an informed decision about vaccination for children and youth.
ParentHomework.ca is a new resource that provides families with trusted information about COVID-19 vaccination from medical experts at Ontario’s child health organizations
The Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre invites parents to speak with an experienced agent or health specialist at 1-833-943-3900 (TTY for people who are deaf, hearing-impaired or speech-impaired: 1-866-797-0007). The service is available in more than 300 languages, seven days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

For parents who are interested in reading, credible resources are available for families, including the Ministry of Health website Ontario.ca/covidvaccinekids, information sheet and fact sheet. Tools and resources are available to assist with preparing children for their vaccine appointment using the CARD tool, a clinic roadmap and by taking a virtual clinic tour.

The Health Department is offering community immunization clinics with extended hours for families. These clinics welcome walk-ins and booked appointments. We are currently working with school boards to offer vaccine clinics in elementary schools across the region. These clinics are communicated by school principals and require parent consent prior to immunization.

Vaccine opportunities in the region are also available at some pharmacies, select health care providers and at Provincial GO-VAXX mobile clinics.

For more information about the COVID-19 vaccine, the clinic calendar and to visit the dedicated section for 5 – 11-year-olds, we invite you to our website www.durham.ca/covidvaccines#Children-5-11

Sincerely,

Durham Region Health Department

Construction Begins on New Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Dear Families,

We are pleased to share the exciting news that construction has officially begun on the new Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School in Oshawa. Visit dcdsb.ca to see the full groundbreaking announcement details and photos.

This state-of-the-art facility, located at 1001 Greenhill Drive in Oshawa, will serve students in Grades 9 through 12, offering both English and French Immersion programming. Scheduled to open in September 2027, the school will accommodate 1,061 students in a 127,000 square foot, three-storey building. The project is supported by $71.065 million in capital funding from the Government of Ontario, and we are grateful for their continued investment in Catholic education in Durham Region.

The new site is strategically located in Oshawa’s growing north-east, close to new development, community facilities, and transit options. In addition to modern learning spaces, the new school will feature community-connected walkways, collaborative areas, and recreational facilities.

We will continue to keep families informed as the project progresses through regular updates and community engagement opportunities.

Sincerely,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Grade 8 Student & Parent Information Evening at Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School - January 18, 2017

Fri, 13 Jan 2017 16:30:00 GMT

Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School welcomes Grade 8 students who will be attending Dwyer in September 2017 and their parents/guardians to join us on Wednesday, January 18, 2017 at 7:00 p.m.

Educators will present an overview of the registration process. There will be additional information sessions highlighting various programs at Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School, such as Advanced Placement (AP), Ultimate Potential (UP) Math, Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM), and Cooperative Education. Students and parents will also have the opportunity to visit different departments around the school to learn more about the various compulsory and elective (e.g., Arts, Business, and Technology) courses offered.

Students from our associate Durham Catholic elementary schools and from other local elementary schools are invited to attend. Our Guidance Team will be available to discuss the registration process for students who do not currently attend Father Joseph Venini, Good Shepherd, St. Joseph, Sir Albert Love, St. Christopher, St. John Bosco and St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic Schools.

Please also visit our school website > Guidance> Transitioning to High School for additional resources to prepare for Grade 9.

Welcome to the 2023-2024 School Year

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 13:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

Happy September!

We are excited to reconnect with you and your family for the start of the 2023-2024 school year and offer a special welcome to students and families who are new to the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Here in Durham Catholic, we are looking forward to a school year that will focus on listening, learning and living in faith as we embark on our new multi-year strategic plan, Inspire 2026. Through our recent consultations in the spring of 2023, participants reconfirmed the importance of our strategic priorities to support faith and well-being, advance human rights and equity, and improve student learning with a particular focus on literacy, numeracy and pathways for student success.

This year our spiritual theme is Speaking With the Heart, which stems from Pope Francis’s letter written on World Day of Social Communications in May 2023. Building on last year's theme, Listening With the Ear of the Heart, which spoke of the need to open our hearts to hear the words and experiences of others, this year's message focuses on expressing ourselves with compassion and sensitivity. Pope Francis writes, "listening without prejudice, attentively and openly, gives rise to speaking according to God’s style, nurtured by closeness, compassion and tenderness."Inspired by these words, all members of the DCDSB community are invited to reflect on what it means to communicate “according to God's style” and to welcome encounters with others as “heart speaks to heart.” We are also called to attend to the many ways we communicate with one another. Beyond spoken words, we express ourselves through gestures, symbols, icons, body language, online communication, art, music, dance, and more. We are proud of the work and learning that happens in our DCDSB schools and hope that this spiritual theme will serve as a beacon to guide us in our mission to be an inclusive Catholic learning community that inspires every student to achieve their full potential through faith and education.

Parents, guardians, and caregivers are critical to student success. Please subscribe to the news and calendar sections on your school website to keep up-to-date on what’s happening. By working together, as home, school and parish we will support the academic and spiritual development of our students. The Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) and your school’s Catholic School Council also provide great opportunities to engage with your school community through monthly meetings, events and activities.

On behalf of the Board of Trustees and Senior Administration Team, we hope all families have a wonderful Labour Day long weekend. We wish everyone in our Durham Catholic learning community a safe and joyful return to school this September.

Yours in Catholic Education,

Monique Forster Tracy Barill
Chair of the Board Director of Education

DCDSB - Extended School Closures

Mon, 21 Dec 2020 23:45:00 GMT

December 21, 2020

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Today the Premier announced a province wide shutdown to prevent the spread of COVID-19 effective Saturday, December 26, 2020. Click here to view details about the shutdown outlined by the province. As part of this shutdown, all schools in the province will be closed to students from January 4-8, 2020.

What does this mean for your child after the Christmas holiday?

All Elementary and Secondary students currently enrolled in the virtual learning model will continue to receive regular instruction with their teachers, beginning January 4, 2021, as per their usual practice.

Students who currently attend class in person at the school will be asked to connect online during the period of closures. Return to face-to-face learning is scheduled as follows:

Elementary students (Kindergarten to Grade 8) will return to in-school classes on Monday, January 11, 2021
Secondary students (Grades 9 through 12) will return to in-school classes on Monday, January 25, 2021

Beginning on January 4, 2021 and continuing during the period of school closures, staff will engage with students using our online learning platforms. While we recognize that this may be a challenge for some households, we respect provincial protocols to keep everyone safe and ask that you encourage your child to connect with their teachers online on January 4, 2021. More information will be forthcoming.

In the event of extended closures, the Durham Catholic District School Board will continue to follow the direction of the Ministry of Education, in terms of expectations for teaching and learning, evaluation and assessment, and we will update families with next steps.

Thank you for your continued cooperation and understanding. By working together as a community, it is our hope that students and staff can return to the classroom as soon as possible.

I hope that you and those you love are finding ways to have a safe and happy Christmas! Please know that you are all in my prayers.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

2024 Walk for Hope

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 15:30:00 GMT

A heartfelt thank you to our Durham Catholic learning community! Throughout May and June, our amazing students, families, and staff participated in the Walk for Hope in support of the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation.

Donations for the Walk for Hope have raised $13,035! These funds will help to provide essential services to DCDSB students and families in need. This financial assistance ensures the provision of basic needs, so students are able to participate in all aspects of school life and have a better opportunity to reach their full potential.

A special note of gratitude to the DCDSB staff that helped organize these individual school events.

About the Walk for Hope
Schools across Durham Catholic District School Board will be participating in the Student Walk for Hope in support of the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation in June 2024. Students and staff will be invited to donate “virtual” toonies to support Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation initiatives. Funds collected will assist the Foundation in helping children and families in the Durham Catholic District School Board. The purpose of the Foundation is to ensure that students in the Durham Catholic District School Board can attend school with the basic daily necessities of life provided. In addition, it supports students’ participation in all aspects of school life, enabling them to work towards reaching their full potential.

All donations will be made through School Cash Online. Our goal this year is to raise $20,000 board-wide! 100% of the donations go directly to support the initiatives of the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation.

Thank you for supporting the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation.

2016 Safe and Inclusive Schools Survey

Thu, 03 Nov 2016 16:15:00 GMT

All parents are invited to complete this year’s school climate survey. The survey will be open until Wednesday, November 30, 2016. You can access the survey by clicking here.

DCDSB's Students Shine in 2020 CBC Music Class Challenge

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 17:15:00 GMT

Congratulations to the Regional Arts & Media Program (AMP) students and Mr. Parker’s class at St. Joseph Catholic School for their outstanding accomplishments and achievements in the 2020 CBC Music Class Challenge.

The AMP students at All Saints Catholic Secondary School won Top Virtual Video in this year’s contest, with their entry of Alanis Morissette’s “Hand in My Pocket” and Mr. Steven Parker's class at St. Joseph Catholic School, in Oshawa placed in the top 10 for the second straight year.

“The videos are a testament our students’ God-given talent, passion and creativity to shine during these challenging times,” said Tracy Barill, Director of Education at the Durham Catholic District School Board. “Congratulations to the students and staff for promoting 21^st century learning skills through creative projects”.

The Regional Arts & Media Program’s “Top Virtual Video” win was a surprise category created during the deliberation process. Students from the Instrumental Music and Performing Arts – Vocal Music streams each practiced and recorded their part individually, due to health and safety measures in place this year.

“We are thrilled to receive this award and recognition,” said Mr. Paglia, Instrumental Music teacher with the Regional Arts & Media Program. “Each student performed their individual part remotely, which we later mixed together.” Mr. Paglia added, “I am so proud of all the students for their efforts, passion, and commitment to the arts”.

Check out the videos and our talent DCDSB students at:

All Saints Catholic Secondary School – Regional Arts & Media Program: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aFZEroEuqxo&feature=emb_title
St. Joseph Catholic School: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSM0wy_mVfM

Letter to Parents & Guardians - Remote Learning Schedules for January 2021

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 17:00:00 GMT

December 28, 2020

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As communicated on December 21, 2020, the Ministry of Education has mandated that in conjunction with the province-wide shut down, all schools in the province will be closed to students from January 4-8, 2021. Buses will not be running during this time. Students and staff will be engaged in remote learning from home during the closures. Currently, elementary schools are scheduled to re-open for face-to-face learning on January 11, 2021 and secondary schools are scheduled to resume in person instruction on January 25, 2021.

The following information is being provided to families to outline basic system-wide expectations during the remote learning period. More school specific information will be forthcoming once school resumes on January 4, 2021.

SCHEDULES FOR LEARNING

Virtual Schools – Elementary and Secondary

For students previously enrolled in virtual learning (elementary or secondary) online instruction will resume on January 4, 2021 according to the previously established schedule.

Elementary (Kindergarten – Grade 8)

January 4, 2021 - Afternoon

Parents/Guardians can expect that educators will connect with their students in the afternoon using board approved platforms
Schedules for the week, assignments and information will be sent from the school/educator to each student/family via Edsby and/or board email
Real-time learning will be done through Microsoft Teams, Zoom or Brightspace

January 5-8, 2021

Educators will post work online every day for those students who cannot connect in real time
At the beginning of the week, the teacher will post the online learning schedule for each day (including French and the subjects taught by itinerant teachers) and provide any necessary links for their Zoom/Microsoft Teams sessions
Instruction will generally follow the regular school schedule online (i.e., start and end times, lunch etc.)
During some of the time, educators will conduct lessons online, at other times they will be available to answer questions and provide feedback

General Timelines:

Kindergarten students should be able to access up to 180 minutes of learning each day.
Students in Grades 1-8 should be able to access up to 225 minutes of learning each day.

Secondary (Grades 9-12)

Beginning January 4, 2021 and continuing until Secondary schools reopen on January 25, 2021 students in Grades 9-12 will continue to follow the same schedule that was in place prior to the Christmas Weekly Schedule Break with the following important exceptions:

1. All students will be expected to engage in online learning in the morning (Blocks 1 and 2) every day.

2. Lunch break will be 60 minutes.

3. Students attending All Saints and Msgr. John Pereyma Catholic Secondary Schools will continue to follow their current schedule and start times of 8:50 a.m. (All Saints) and 9:00 a.m.
(Pereyma) as noted on their schools’ websites.

Daily Schedule for all Secondary Schools (except All Saint and Msgr. Pereyma)

10:00 – 11:15   Block 1
11:15 – 12:30   Block 2
12:30 – 1:30     Lunch
1:30 – 2:45       Block 3
2:45 – 4:00       Block 4 - office hours

Weekly Schedule for all students in grades 9-12

January 4-8: Block 1 & 2 - Course 4/Block 3 & 4 - Course 3
January 11-15: Block 1 & 2 - Course 3/Block 3 & 4 - Course 4

January 18 - 20 Block 1 & 2 - Course 4/Block 3 & 4 - Course 3
January 21 - 22 Block 1 & 2 - Course 3/Block 3 & 4 - Course 4

*The modification to the January 18-22, 2021 schedule has been made to balance the number of minutes of instruction for each course.

STUDENTS WITH EXCEPTIONAL SPECIAL EDUCATION NEEDS

Program Support Teachers will connect with the parents/guardians of our students with exceptional education needs beginning on January 4, 2021 in order to discuss programming needs and to put the necessary accommodations in place. Where required and appropriate, secondary students with the highest special needs who have been attending on a daily, extended schedule will be provided with the opportunity to attend school in-person starting on January 11, 2021.

ATTENDANCE

During the period of remote learning, it is requested that parents/guardians continue to report absences using our board’s SafeArrival program.

While the instructional minutes listed above for Elementary students (Kindergarten – Grade 8) must be provided, it is understood that during the week of January 4-8, 2021, not all students may be able to be online for the full 180/225mins.

If a student connects any time during the day they should be marked as present.
If a parent/guardian indicates that the student will not be connecting synchronously but will be doing the work at home, they will also be marked as present.

Secondary students are expected to connect online during each block in order to be marked as present.

TECHNOLOGY

It is understood that for families with multiple school age children, simultaneous online learning may be difficult if there are a limited number of devices in the household. For students in Kindergarten – Grade 8, educators will ensure that daily work is posted so that if a student cannot connect online at a specific time, they will still be able to access learning materials and assignments.

Where access to technology is a barrier, families should contact the school for support.

For technical support on Board issued devices or applications such as Edsby, D2L/Brightspace, Office 365, etc., please email?TechnologySupport@dcdsb.ca?and explain the issue you are experiencing such as password reset. Please include in the email, the student name, student User ID, date of birth, school name, grade and phone number where we can contact you.

Edsby Support for Parents/Guardians/Students
Instructional videos are available for parents/guardians/students online at: https://dcdsb.ca/Edsby

Additional Ministry Supports for Learning

Parents/Guardians are reminded that the Ministry of Education recently announced?the launch of two new portals,?TVO Learn?and?TFO?IDÉLLO, apprendre à la maison, which provide supports for students learning remotely by accessing additional educational resources developed by Ontario certified teachers.? ?

We recognize that these are challenging times for everyone and thank you in advance for your ongoing efforts to work in collaboration with school staff to support continued learning for our students.

May you continue to stay safe at home during this period of provincial shutdown and may God’s blessings be with all of us as we move with hope and love into a New Year.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill,
Director of Education

2024-2025 DCPIC Parent/Guardian Survey

Wed, 14 May 2025 12:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

The Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) is a parent-led advisory committee working within the Durham Catholic District School Board. The committee is conducting a parent/guardian?survey?that will assist in setting the committee’s direction for the 2025-2026 school year.

We want to hear from you!

We welcome input from parents, guardians and caregivers. The?survey?consists of seven short questions and will take approximately five minutes to complete. To complete the?survey,?please click here. The survey will remain open until Friday, May 30, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.

The survey responses will be used to inform our plans for the next school year. Based on last year’s survey, the DCPIC held and participated in many events in the 2024-2025 school year, including:

Financial Literacy Parent Night
Family Literacy Night
Advent Craft Night
Lenten Craft Night
Math Made Accessible: Tools for Families of Students with Special Education Needs
Youth and Mental Health Night

With your feedback, we can continue to provide families with events and resources throughout the school year.

About?the DCPIC

The main purpose of the?DCPIC?is to encourage, support and enhance meaningful parent involvement to improve student academic achievement and well-being. By providing a direct link between parents, Catholic School Councils, the Director of Education and the Board of Trustees, the?DCPIC?is committed to working in partnership with all stakeholders to promote faith formation and student success in our schools. The?DCPIC?holds monthly meetings which are open to the public.

To learn more about the?DCPIC, please visit?dcpic.ca.

Yours in Faith,

Christine Santos
Chair, Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee

DSTS Buses Cancelled in All Zones

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 11:30:00 GMT

Durham Student Transportation Services has cancelled buses in all Zones today (Thursday, February 23) due to road conditions resulting from inclement weather. All DCDSB schools remain open. Buses are cancelled in Zone 1 (Brock Area), Zone 2 (Uxbridge Area), Zone 3 (Scugog Area), and Zone 4 (Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Oshawa).

November 4 - Food for Clothing Exchange

Thu, 26 Oct 2017 16:15:00 GMT

We are now accepting donations of gently used winter clothing (snowsuits, coats, pants, hats, mitts, scarves, sweaters, shirts, jeans, boots, shoes, etc.) in all sizes for adults, teens and children.

The Food for Clothing Exchange will take place on:

Saturday, November 4, 2017
9:00 a.m. to 12 noon

Location: G.L. Roberts CVI
399 Chaleur Ave., Oshawa

This event is open to all families in Durham Region. Anyone needing clothing may attend the exchange. They are asked to bring a non-perishable food items which will be donated to the local food bank.

See the attached flyer for more information and where to drop off clothes that need to be dry cleaned. Or call Jim Fergusson at 905-436-0275.

Join us for Upcoming Student Census Engagement Sessions

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 20:00:00 GMT

November 4, 2021

Dear Parents and Guardians,

DCDSB's Student Census Steering Committee is holding upcoming virtual engagement sessions for parents and guardians of students in Grades 4-12, and community members in November 2021. The consultation sessions will provide the community with an opportunity to review the questions that schools boards across Ontario are required to ask and obtain feedback and ideas into the three additional questions the board will include in the census.

The Stand Up, Be Counted, Be Heard Student Census will collect quality and confidential student demographic data that will enable evidence-based decision making, while helping to remove barriers to student success. Our goal is to:

Understand and support the diversity of students and families;
Eliminate barriers to student success; and
Enrich students’ learning by providing the right supports, at the right time, while making schools a safer, more welcoming space to belong.

Parents, guardians and community partners are welcome to attend the following virtual sessions:

November 17 –DCDSB’s Student Census: Black Community Engagement Session
Time: 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Zoom link: https://dcdsb-ca.zoom.us/j/91491191757?pwd=MEhHWTdQbWxOdm9tMFV5eVpPQUxhQT09#success
November 18 – DCDSB’s Student Census: Parent/Guardian and Student Community Engagement Session
Time: 5:00 – 6;00 p.m.
Zoom link: https://dcdsb-ca.zoom.us/j/99074382935?pwd=YXk3U3pYTmpxQ2NaakJ2bkVKNlhydz09#success

DCDSB’s Stand Up, Be Counted, Be Heard Student Census is a voluntary survey that offers students in Grades 4 to 12 an opportunity to share their identify, culture, race, ethnicity, gender and ability. The survey will be conducted during the week of April 25 – 29, 2022.

For more information visit dcdsb.ca/studentcensus or email studentcensus@dcdsb.ca.

Yours in Faith,

Mr. Ibrahim Mrs. Brimpong
Superintendent of Education Senior Manager, Equity, Anti-Racism and Engagement
Durham Catholic District School Board Durham Catholic District School Board

Join us in celebrating Orange Shirt Day on Friday, September 29, 2017

Tue, 26 Sep 2017 12:45:00 GMT

Orange shirt day was established in 2013 through the efforts of Phyllis Webstad, a First nations woman who had her new orange shirt taken from her on her first day of residential school in 1973. This year's event will be celebrated on Saturday, September 30, 2017.

For more than a 100 years the Federal Government of Canada backed a residential school system that sought to isolate First Nations children from their families and impose the dominant Canadian culture on them.

The system was rife with cases of emotional, physical and sexual abuse giving rise to trauma that many victims and their families live with to this day.

This Friday, September 29, 2017, Durham Catholic students are invited to wear orange coloured shirts or clothing to show their solidarity with victims of residential schools.

Orange Shirt Day is also an opportunity for First Nations, local governments, schools and communities to come together in the spirit of reconciliation and hope for generations of children to come.

Computer Science Week

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 15:00:00 GMT

Computer Science Week will be celebrated the week of December 6 - 12, 2021. This is a global week-long event!

Elementary students will be engaged in activities and learning throughout this week. Students will have the opportunity to be producers with technology, rather than just consumers. Students will also be presented with real-life ways to use code, including ways to mitigate climate change and to reduce home energy usage.

During this week, students, staff and families are also invited to get involved in an Hour of Code event. Hour of Code began as a one-hour introduction to computer science to teach the basics of code and broaden participation in the field of computer science. It has since become a worldwide effort to celebrate computer science, starting with 1-hour coding activities and expanding to various community activities and events. Further information can be found on the Hour of Code website.

Further information and resources about Coding and Computer Science can be found at:

Ontario's Well-Being Strategy for Education

Tue, 22 Nov 2016 17:00:00 GMT

Supporting the well-being of Ontario’s children and youth is a priority shared by many- families, various government ministries, and a wide range of organizations in sectors such as health, social services, and community safety. The Ministry of Education has a unique role to play because students move through the continuum of learning and development, from their formative years into young adulthood, at school. This fall, the Ministry of Education is engaging all stakeholders, including parents, in a public engagement process in order to capture a wide range of perspectives. Their goal is to move forward in developing a provincial framework on student well-being from Kindergarten to Grade 12. If you are interested in learning more, and/or giving your input on this topic, please visit www.ontario.ca/studentwellbeing

Prayer for Peace

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 20:30:00 GMT

We send prayers of peace for the people of Ukraine and their family members around the world. We pray for the members of our Durham Catholic District School Board community who have family and friends in the Ukraine and have been directly affected by the loss of so many lives.

Merciful God,

We pray for the people of Ukraine and their family members around the world. We ask that all those involved respond with wisdom, courage and that a peaceful resolution may be achieved.

Lord, during these challenging times please lead us from despair to hope, from fear to trust and lead us from hatred to love. We ask this in the name of Jesus, the Prince of Peace.

Amen

New to Canada?

Tue, 12 Jun 2018 18:45:00 GMT

We partner with SWIS Durham to offer the following orientation sessions for newcomers to Canada in late August 2018 at the following schools. See flyer below for more information.

Register for this free program, by contacting your school or calling SWIS Durham Office at 905-686-2661 ext. 122.

Sept. 14 - Pop-up Walk-in Vaccine Clinic

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 16:15:00 GMT

Important Notice!

Youth born in or before 2009, school staff and unimmunized family members are encouraged to receive their COVID-19 vaccine occurring at Msgr. Paul Dwyer Catholic High School on Tuesday, September 14, 2021 from 4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

The clinic is open to all eligible students, staff and unimmunized family members of the high school and its elementary feeder schools.

No appointments are required.

All individuals born in or before 2009 are eligible to receive the vaccine. Identification with date of birth is required when attending the vaccination clinic.

For the most up-to-date information about COVID-19 and additional vaccine clinics in Durham Region, please visit our website at www.durham.ca/covidvaccine .

DCDSB Special Education Review: Virtual Parent and Guardian Engagement Session

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 16:15:00 GMT

Parents, guardians and caregivers with children with special education needs are invited to attend the Special Education Review Engagement Session with staff from DCDSB Student Services and the Abilities Centre.

Special Education Review: Virtual Parent and Guardian Engagement Session
Wednesday, November 2, 2022 at 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Virtual Meeting via Microsoft Teams
Registration is required. Please click here to complete the registration form.

Further information, including a link to the virtual meeting, will be shared with registrants prior to the information session.

This meeting will include:

Presentation and overview on the DCDSB Special Education Review
Opportunities to engage with staff
Question-and-Answer period
Opportunities for families to provide feedback
Breakout rooms with DCDSB Student Services staff and Abilities Centre staff who will provide information and supports for students and families

If you require accessibility related accommodations for attendance at this meeting, please notify delfina.pinto@dcdsb.ca so that arrangements can be made.

Special Education Review Survey
We also invite parents, guardians, and caregivers to provide input and feedback on the DCDSB’s delivery of special education programming and supports for students through a brief survey.

Complete the Special Education Review survey here. The survey will remain open until Friday, November 4, 2022.

Important Information from Lakeridge Health: Supporting Healthy Communities

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Lakeridge Health's Emergency Departments are struggling to meet the demand during cold and flu season. A large number of patients are using Emergency Departments for non-urgent issues, such as things that can be safely managed at home or by visiting a doctor's office/walk-in clinic. Lakeridge Health and the Durham Ontario Health Team are launching a public campaign through social media and additional website resources to better inform families about their urgent care options in an effort to reduce the strain on Emergency Departments.

With cold and flu season upon us, Lakeridge Health has asked that we share the attached information with DCDSB families. This is especially important going into the holiday season to keep our communities healthy and safe.

For more information on urgent care options please visit the Lakeridge Health website.

Durham Catholic Schools Celebrate French Culture

Wed, 25 Sep 2019 18:30:00 GMT

On Wednesday, September 25, 2019, our Durham Catholic schools celebrated Franco-Ontarian Day by wearing green and white. Grade 3 and 4 students and staff at St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School, in Oshawa proudly raised the Franco-Ontario flag to recognize the vibrant culture of Francophones living in Ontario. The students sang our national anthem and the Francophone Ontarian song, while raising the flag.

Our board appreciates and acknowledges the diversity that the Francophone community brings to Ontario and the role that culture brings to language learning. Our students studying in all our French as a Second Language (FSL) programs, realize the vision of the FSL curriculum as they strive to learn about Canada, its two official languages and Francophone culture.

Board Holiday on March 12, 2021 will Proceed as Scheduled

Fri, 12 Feb 2021 23:30:00 GMT

February 12, 2021

Dear Parents and Guardians,

On February 11, 2021, the Minister of Education, Stephen Lecce announced that March Break would be postponed until April 12 -16, 2021 to prevent the spread of COVID-19. In yesterday’s letter, we noted that Friday, March 12, 2021 is a scheduled board designated holiday. Today, I am confirming that we will still go ahead with the scheduled board holiday on Friday, March 12, 2021. Do not send your children to school on this date.

As we head into the long Family Day weekend, I extend my heartfelt thanks to all our Durham Catholic families for your continued cooperation. May you take the time to rest this weekend and find ways to connect with loved ones.

God bless you and your families.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

May 26 - DCDSB's Community Run and Walk for Hope

Mon, 13 May 2019 16:00:00 GMT

Please join our annual

DCDSB Community Run/Walk for Hope

Fun for the entire family!!!

Come out an exercise with our Durham Catholic colleagues, communities and friends!

We will have a D.J., silent auction prizes, bubble machine, free face painting, community wellness booths, food and ice cream trucks.

When: Sunday, May 26, 2019
Anytime between 11:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Where – Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School,
700 Stevenson Road North, Oshawa

Distance - 2.5 km or 5 km.

Cost - $10 per person, $20 for an entire family

Incentive prizes for staff and school community participation.

All funds raised go to the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation.

Since 2015, the Foundation has been given back over $70,000 to children in need across Durham Region.

Come out on your own...with your staff and/or family. Please register today at - https://www.durhamcatholicfoundation.ca/en/run-for-hope.aspx

DCPIC Spring 2021 Newsletter Now Available

Thu, 20 May 2021 16:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The latest issue of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee's (DCPIC) newsletter is now available.

This issue of the newsletter includes:

A message from the Chair;
2021 DCPIC Parent/Guardian Survey;
2020/2021 Distinguished Catholic Volunteer Awards;
DCPIC Parent/Guardian Workshop with Aubrey Noronha “Hello Hope: Battling Loneliness + Isolation Before, During and After COVID-19”; and
Dates for upcoming DCPIC meetings.

For more information about the committee, visit dcpic.ca or email chair@dcpic.ca.

Yours in faith,

Melissa Bevan,
Chair of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee

Now Available - Fall Issue of DCPIC Newsletter

Tue, 19 Nov 2019 14:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Welcome to the 2019-2020 school year and our fall issue of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee’s (DCPIC) newsletter. This year, our committee has moved the newsletter to an online format. A limited number of printed copies of the newsletter will be available in the schools’ offices.

This issue of the newsletter includes:

A message from the Chair;
Highlights from our DCPIC Commissioning Mass;
Information on Math Resources; and
Dates for upcoming DCPIC meetings.

For more information about the committee, visit dcpic.ca or email chair@dcpic.ca.

Yours in faith,

Melissa Bevan,
Chair of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee

DCDSB News - September 2023

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 18:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

The September 2023 DCDSB News is now available! This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what’s happening across the DCDSB.

This newsletter includes:

Living in Faith:

Saint Spotlight: St. Francis de Sales
The Ontario Catholic School Trustees’ Association Short-Video Contest

DCDSB Updates:

Back-to-School Letter from the Minister of Education
Preparing for National Truth and Reconciliation Week
Applications for the Regional Arts & Media Program Opening on September 22, 2023
Anti-Black Racism and Black Excellence Advisory Committee Chair and Vice-Chair Nominations Close September 18, 2023

Parent, Guardian and Caregiver Resources:

Durham Region Grade 5 Action Pass
After School Social Skills Programs Begin in October
Supporting a Mentally Healthy Return to School for Your Child
DCDSB TRAILS to Wellness: Coping with Anxiety
Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) Seeking Members

DCDSB Students:

Project SEARCH Interns - First Day at Durham Region Headquarters

Continuing Education:

Registration Now Open for International Languages Classes
Register for Adult Education Programs with Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre

Upcoming Events:

Recognition days and more

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

DCDSB 2025-2026 Budget Consultation - Share Your Thoughts!

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 15:00:00 GMT

As we plan for the 2025-2026 school year at the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB), we want to hear from you! We invite all parents/guardians, students, employees, and members of the DCDSB community to participate in the budget development process.

Your feedback is important to us. Please take a few minutes to share your feedback by completing an anonymous survey. The insights gathered will help guide our school and board plans and budget for the 2025-2026 school year.

Click here to complete the 2025-2026 School Year Budget Consultation Survey

Note that the survey will remain open until 4:00 p.m. on Monday, March 31, 2025.

For more information on how the board is funded, the budget development process, timelines, and frequently asked questions, please visit the 2025-2026 Budget Development and Consultation webpage.

Kindergarten Registration is Now Open!

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 14:45:00 GMT

Begin your child’s faith-filled journey at the Durham Catholic District School Board! Online registration is now open for a September 2023 start in Kindergarten.

Please follow the following steps to register for Kindergarten:

Use the Find My Local Catholic School tool to find schools designated as the home school in your area;
Create an OSAS account, or log in to your existing account;
Log in to your OSAS account, and select “Regular School – New Application”.

If you need help registering online, please contact your local DCDSB school. Contact information for our schools can be found on our website.

Age Requirements
Your child must meet the following age requirements to enter Kindergarten in September 2023:

To register for Year 1/Junior Kindergarten, your child must be 4 years old by December 31, 2023.
To register for Year 2/Senior Kindergarten, your child must be 5 years old by December 31, 2023.

Kindergarten Resources
We have many resources available to assist families with the transition to Kindergarten:

DCDSB Kindergarten Webpage
Kindergarten Registration Information
Navigating Kindergarten Zoom Series - a live virtual parent/guardian series to prepare you and your child for Kindergarten.
Our Kindergarten Program – with information about our program, Special Education, English Language Learners and Summer Rays program.
Parent/Guardian Kindergarten Resources

DCPIC Newsletter - Winter 2022

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The latest issue of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee's (DCPIC) newsletter is now available.

This issue of the newsletter includes:

A Message from the Chair;
Family Lent Crafts, Activities and Resources;
Virtual Family STEM Workshop;
DCPIC Volunteer Awards;
Sacramental Preparation and Youth Ministries;
DCDSB Parishes;
Black Mental Health Day Event;
Dates for Upcoming DCPIC Meetings.

For more information about the committee, please visit dcpic.ca or email chair@dcpic.ca.

Yours in Faith,

Melissa Bevan
Chair of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee

DCDSB 2021-2022 EQAO and OSSLT Results

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 19:15:00 GMT

Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is pleased to report on results from the 2021-2022 Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) assessments, including the Primary and Junior assessment, Grade 9 Mathematics, and the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT).

“We want to celebrate the high level of student achievement in Literacy in the Primary, Junior and Grade 10 assessments,” said Mike O’Neill, Superintendent of Education. “The DCDSB has been working towards reducing the achievement gap in Math in relation to provincial results, and although we have seen improvements, we still have work to do in order to increase student achievement in Mathematics. We will continue to support this goal through additional staff training, resources and supports.”

In 2021-2022 the following number of DCDSB students participated in EQAO and OSSLT assessments:

1,352 Grade 3 students wrote the Primary assessment.
1,475 Grade 6 students wrote the Junior assessment.
1,115 Grade 9 students participated in the EQAO Math testing.
1,431 Grade 10 students participated in the OSSLT focused on key skills in reading and writing.

Below are the board and provincial averages of students achieving at or above the provincial standards for each area of testing.

EQAO Test	DCDSB Average	Provincial Average
Grade 3 Reading	76%	73.2%
Grade 3 Writing	69.6%	64.9%
Grade 3 Math	57.1%	59%
Grade 6 Reading	88.4%	84.9%
Grade 6 Writing	87%	84.1%
Grade 6 Math	43.9%	47.2%
Grade 9 De-streamed Math	53.5%	52.3%
OSSLT (Grade 10)	85%	82.1%

Please note: first time eligible students are captured in the statistics above.

The 2021-2022 school year was the first time EQAO testing was completed for Grade 9 De-Streamed Math. Previously, the testing was separated into Academic or Applied Math. This was also the first year that EQAO and OSSLT assessments were completed electronically.

“EQAO assessment results are a useful piece of information that can assist educators in understanding how we are doing in the key areas of literacy and numeracy and where we can improve,” said Tracy Barill, Director of Education. “In light of the major disruptions caused by the pandemic, we appreciate this new baseline data and look forward to unpacking our results at a school level to continue to support and improve student learning.”

Letter to Parents and Guardians - March 22, 2020

Sun, 22 Mar 2020 22:30:00 GMT

March 22, 2020

Dear Parents and Guardians,

During this unprecedented time, we remind you that our schools remain closed from March 23 to April 5, 2020. Please do not send your child(ren) to school during this time.

As a community of faith, we encourage you to practice self-care and invite you to pray as a family and reflect on your Lenten journey. Our Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee created a Lenten Calendar that is available for you to use at home. We have also posted resources to help your child(ren)’s mental health during COVID-19 at https://www.dcdsb.ca/en/parents/novel-coronavirus.aspx.

As you are aware, the Ministry of Education has launched Learn at Home online resources to help students with continued learning during the next two weeks. We understanding that online learning may present challenges to some families and want to ensure you that we are working on a plan to make learning equitable to all our students. We will communicate more when information is available.

Lastly, we recognize that school closures due to COVID-19 have created new stressors for students and families. Resources to support mental health and well-being have been posted on the Board website and additional resources focused on student well-being will be shared as they become available.

We appreciate your support and cooperation as we work together to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the community. Below is a letter to parents and guardians from the Minister of Education, Stephen Lecce regarding the current situation and supports available.

We will continue to provide updates as information becomes available at https://www.dcdsb.ca/en/parents/novel-coronavirus.aspx.

Yours in faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

Durham Catholic District School Board Presents Be You, Be Well: A Black Mental Health Day Event

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 19:15:00 GMT

Monday, March 4, 2024, marks the fifth annual Black Mental Health Day, recognized by communities across Ontario. On Black Mental Health Day, we are called to recognize the ongoing impact on mental health that results from experiences of anti-Black racism and to raise awareness of the specific mental health needs of Black communities.

Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) invites students, families, and community members to join us as we examine these impacts and needs and discuss ways in which members of the community can support their mental health.

This year, DCDSB is proud to present Be You, Be Well: A Black Mental Health Day Event on March 4, 2024. Roxanne Francis will be the keynote presenter. Roxanne is an award-winning psychotherapist, registered social worker, consultant, leadership coach and international speaker, who has been helping people access tools to change their lives for over 15 years. The event will also feature a panel discussion including Trudy Stone (Culinary Nutritionist), Joy Lapps (Musical Artist/Composer), Karrianne Edwards (Psychotherapist), and more!

The details for Be You, Be Well: A Black Mental Health Day Event are as follows:

Date: Monday, March 4, 2024
Time: 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Note: doors open at 6:00 p.m., with community partner information booths and food available to attendees.
Location: Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School (1375 Harwood Ave N., Ajax)
Cost: Free!
Registration: To register for this event, please click here.

“As a board, we acknowledge the historical and contemporary systemic anti-Black racism that has impacted the well-being of the Black community,” said Paula Sorhaitz, DCDSB Superintendent of Education. “Black Mental Health Day provides an opportunity to discuss these experiences, share available supports, highlight the ongoing need for change and emphasize the intersection of equity and mental health, knowing that student well-being is an essential component to student success.”

To learn more and to register for Be You, Be Well: A Black Mental Health Day Event, please visit the DCDSB website.

Oshawa Program and Boundary Study - Updates for 2024-2025 School Year

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 18:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

In follow up to the letter shared with families on June 22, 2023, we are writing to provide an update on the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) Oshawa Program and Boundary Study. The following will assist in providing information for students currently attending a DCDSB school in Oshawa.

Oshawa Program and Boundary Study Background Information

At the Regular Board Meeting held on June 19, 2023, the Durham Catholic District School Board of Trustees approved the recommended program and boundary revisions as a result of the Oshawa and Program Boundary Study.

What Does This Mean for My Child?

To provide further clarity, we have outlined the approved recommended program and boundary revisions for each school community.

Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School

French Immersion will be offered at the school, beginning with Grade 9 students starting September 2024.
When the new school opens, it will be a Grade 7 to 12 dual track English and French Immersion school (note: depending on the date of opening will determine if Grades 11 and or 12 will be offered).
One less feeder school (Sir Albert Love) will attend Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School.

Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School

One additional feeder school (Sir Albert Love Catholic School) will attend Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School.

Monsignor Philip Coffey Catholic School

No changes.

Sir Albert Love Catholic Elementary School

Grade 8 graduates will attend Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School for Grade 9, beginning in September 2024.
A boundary adjustment to remove the current satellite area and add some of the St. Joseph Catholic School boundary that is walking distance to Sir Albert Love Catholic School. The boundary adjustment will also move some of the western part of the current boundary into St. Christopher Catholic School. This will only impact new students to the new boundary.
A follow-up survey will be sent to all families of Sir Albert Love Catholic School in the spring of 2024 to gauge the interest in having Grade 6 students graduate to Monsignor John Pereyma to align with the other feeder schools.

St. Anne Catholic School

No changes.

St. Christopher Catholic School

The French Immersion program will be gradually re-directed to St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School and St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School, beginning in September of 2024.
A boundary adjustment will be made to encompass some of the western boundary of both Sir Albert Love Catholic School and St. Joseph Catholic School. This will only impact new students to this new boundary.
A survey has been sent to parents of French Immersion students to determine the extent of the legacy grades that will remain at St. Christopher Catholic School in September of 2024 (which will be reduced annually).

St. Hedwig Catholic School

A boundary adjustment will be made to encompass the eastern portion of St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School. This will only impact new students to this new boundary.

St. John XXIII Catholic School

No changes.

St. John Bosco Catholic School

Temporary holding school for new Regular/English Track students to the St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School boundary.

St. Joseph Catholic School (Oshawa)

A boundary adjustment to include the current satellite area from Sir Albert Love Catholic School and add some of the St. Joseph Catholic School boundary that is walking distance to Sir Albert Love Catholic School. It will also move some of the western part of the current boundary into St. Christopher Catholic School. This will only impact new students to the new boundary.

St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School

The French Immersion boundary will be adjusted to take in some of the St. Christopher Catholic School French Immersion boundary beginning in September of 2024.
Grade 7 and 8 students in French Immersion and Regular/English track programs will move to the new Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School when it opens.
Temporary restrictions to new enrolment will be redirected to St. John Bosco Catholic School until the new Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School opens.

St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School

The school will become a Kindergarten – Grade 6 dual track (English and French Immersion). However, Grade 7 and Grade 8 French Immersion students will remain at St. Thomas Aquinas until the new Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School opens.
A boundary adjustment will be made to move part of the eastern portion regular track into the St. Hedwig Catholic School area. This will only impact new students to this new boundary.

Updated Attendance Area Maps

Please view the following updated attendance area maps:

Student Transportation

Student transportation will be provided to eligible students in accordance with the Student Transportation Policy PO429. Further details will be shared with families regarding any impacts related to transportation in August 2024 via the Durham Student Transportation Services?Parent Portal?or 24-hour automated phone line (1-866-908-6578).

Questions

To view the full report to the Board of Trustees at the June 19, 2023, Regular Board Meeting, please click here. Updates will continue to be provided to families via School Messenger and on the Oshawa Program and Boundary Study webpage.

Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Sincerely,

Jim Wilson Mike O’Neill Scott Grieve
Superintendent of Education Superintendent of Education Superintendent of Business, Finance and Facilities Services

Complete the 2017-2018 School Year Calendar Survey

Mon, 30 Jan 2017 14:00:00 GMT

The Board's School Year Calendar Committee is in the process of developing the calendar for the 2017/2018 school year.

Please complete the brief survey (one question) which will assist our Committee in determining whether or not there will be a PA Day on Thursday, August 31, 2017 such that the Friday before the March break may be designated as a Board holiday.

The survey will take less than two minutes to complete. Responses are being accepted until February 10, 2017.

Thanking you in advance for your input into the formation of next year’s calendar.

Canadian Music Class Challenge - Reveals Nation's 10 Tops

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 15:15:00 GMT

Congratulations to St. Joseph Catholic School, in Oshawa and All Saint Catholic Secondary School who have been named to the Canadian Music Class Challenge's 10 top in their respective categories.

This year, hundreds of teachers and thousands of students from coast to coast to coast signed up to learn and perform their best version of a Canadian song on every instrument imaginable.

We invite you to watch the videos below featuring St. Joseph Catholic School's Grade 3 and Grade 5-6 students performing "Back in Your Head," by Tegan & Sara and All Saints Catholic Secondary School's Senior Instrumental Grade 11-12 students performing "Lost Together," by Blue Rodeo.

St. Joseph Catholic School, Oshawa - Elementary Vocals (Grade 3)
St. Joseph Catholic School, Oshawa - Elementary Vocals (Grades 4-6)
All Saints Catholic Secondary School - Senior Instructmental (Grades 11-12)

Good luck to our students and teachers, Steven Parker and Michael Paglia. The winners will be announced on Wednesday, Dec 14, 2022.

DCDSB Easter Message

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 19:00:00 GMT

Dear DCDSB Families,

As we journey through Holy Week, we are reminded of the profound love that lies at the heart of our faith. It is a time for us to come together in prayer and reflection to deepen our understanding of the sacrifices that fill our hearts and renew our spirits.

In our Durham Catholic schools, Lent has been a season of hope, filled with community as we support one another in our spiritual growth. Whether through prayer, liturgical celebrations, acts of service, or faith-filled classroom activities, we have witnessed the meaningful ways our students, staff, and families live out Gospel values in their daily lives. These moments remind us that our faith is not just something we teach—it is something we live and celebrate together.

We want to extend our gratitude to our Parish partners who have blessed us with their presence in our schools during the Lenten season and throughout the year. We also want to thank the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee who hosted a Lenten Craft Night to bring together families to celebrate the Lenten season. We are forever grateful for the continued partnerships of our families and parish partners as we embrace and strengthen the home-school-parish connection to support the faith formation of our Durham Catholic learning community.

We invite you to view a video Easter message to families, which features student reflections on their Lenten journey.

It is our hope that we carry the lessons of Lent with us beyond this season. Let us continue to walk together with compassion, kindness, and faith, bringing Christ’s light to everyone we meet. In doing so, we create a world that reflects the peace, love and joy of Easter throughout the year.

On behalf of the Durham Catholic District School Board, we wish you and your loved ones a blessed Easter.

Yours in hope and faith,

Monique Forster Gerard Winn
Chair of the Board Director of Education

Durham Catholic District School Board Creating New Outdoor Learning Spaces

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 16:45:00 GMT

Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is pleased to announce a new project that will bring outdoor experiential learning spaces to five schools across the board. As part of this project, St. Mary Catholic Secondary School (Pickering), St. Jude Catholic School (Ajax), St. Paul Catholic School (Whitby), St. Joseph Catholic School (Oshawa) and Good Shepherd Catholic School (Port Perry) are collaborating with Foggy River Farm to design outdoor class spaces at each school.

DCDSB received funding through the Federal COVID-19 Resiliency Infrastructure Stream (CVRIS) which is to be used for improving air quality, increasing physical distancing, and promoting occupant health and safety. In addition, DCDSB receives provincial funding through the School Renewal Allocation (SRA). SRA provides flexibility, in which the Ministry of Education encourages school boards to prioritize SRA expenditures to address facility condition, health and safety, and general code requirements (including accessibility). “The combined funding has provided us with the flexibility to move forward with the outdoor learning spaces,” said Scott Grieve, Superintendent of Business, Finance and Facilities Services. “These outdoor learning spaces will provide student communities with the opportunity to access a variety of activities with connections to Experiential Learning, Health and Physical Education, Outdoor Education, Religion and Family Life, Science and more.”

The project began in January 2021 where each of the five schools designated a lead educator and lead classroom to help steer the project at each school. Students have had regular meetings over the span of the project. “Students have been asked to share their ideas on where the outdoor structure should be placed at the school, outdoor learning opportunities that could take place, prayer garden construction and for their design of food forests and vegetable gardens,” said Michael Hamill, Academic Services Consultant for Experiential Learning, Outdoor Education and New Teacher Induction Program (NTIP). “The addition of these co-constructed outdoor learning environments will mean that all learners will have the opportunity to experience learning outside all school year. Onsite Outdoor Education promotes accessibility, ownership, and a legacy for the school community.”

Foggy River Farm has worked with DCDSB staff and students to design the outdoor learning structures which will be made from cargo shipping containers that will be connected to wooden gazebos. "The approved design was chosen for its versatility and safety as an outdoor classroom,” said Phillip Collins, Landscape Architect with Foggy River Farm. “Students were engaged from the start of the design process by conducting their own site analysis by studying wind, sun and shade patterns, seasonal snow and rain amounts, noise and many other observations about their schoolyard. These studies allowed the students and lead educators to make informed decisions about where the best place for these classrooms might be."

The building of the outdoor learning spaces has been completed at St. Mary Catholic Secondary School (Pickering) and St. Jude Catholic School (Ajax). Students will continue to work on the design for vegetable gardens and food forests around the structures. There will be learning opportunities for the full school community to participate. Students have been an integral part of the planning process, as it is through student voice and agency that has brought the projects to life. “It’s been so cool to be a part of the Outdoor Education club and to work on this new outdoor classroom project. Mr. Hamill, Mr. Collins and Mrs. Crockford took care of the details but everything else was really an accumulation of all our ideas. From the positioning of the classroom, to the different ways that educators might want to use it, they really gave us full control,” said Megan Satumba, student at St. Mary Catholic Secondary School. “I got to learn about the importance of construction and the environment, how to collaborate in a creative project, and we even got to speak at elementary schools about the green industry initiatives here at St. Mary Catholic Secondary School. This was such an amazing opportunity to accelerate the green initiatives in our school curriculum and I can’t wait for it to keep growing.”

The planning and building of the outdoor learning structures at the remaining school sites will take place over the next year.

DCDSB would like to thank the Government of Canada, the Government of Ontario and the Ontario Ministry of Education for providing funding for these outdoor learning structures. In addition, DCDSB would like to acknowledge Foggy River Farm for their designs and sharing their knowledge and expertise with staff and students.

Parents are Asked to Update their Child's Immunization Information

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 20:15:00 GMT

Message to Parents

Please update your child’s immunization information!

At this time, Durham Region Health Department is asking you to review and update your child’s complete vaccination history online by using the Immunization Connect Ontario (ICON) tool found at: www.durham.ca/immunizationclinics

What is ICON? ICON is an online tool that allows parents to submit their child’s immunization updates and to view their child’s immunizations on file with the health department.

If you do not have access to a computer, you can report the immunizations by:

Phone: 905-666-6242 or 1-800-841-2729
Fax: 905-666-6216

Durham Region Health department will be resuming catch-up vaccination clinics for students in grades 8-12 this fall which includes:

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) (2 doses, 6 months apart)
Hepatitis B (2 doses, 6 months apart)
Meningococcal C-ACYW135 (Men C-ACYW135) (one dose only)

If your child received any of these vaccinations through your health care provider, please remember to update ICON with this information as well. Stay tuned for more information on these upcoming clinics this fall!

If you have any questions, please call the Immunization Program at 905-668-6242 or 1-800-841-2729.

DCDSB Certified Canada EcoSchools

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 19:15:00 GMT

Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is excited to announce the 2023-2024 Certified Canada EcoSchools! As of June 10, 2024, DCDSB celebrates 33 EcoSchools, including five Platinum schools, 21 Gold schools, and seven participant schools (green). Special congratulations to All Saints Catholic Secondary School, Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School, St. Bernard Catholic School, St. Monica Catholic School and St. Teresa of Calcutta Catholic School for certifying Platinum this year. Congratulations to our dedicated staff, students and community members on your success with the EcoSchools Program, and we look forward to your continued success next year!

Jubilee 2025 Mass at St. Gregory the Great Parish

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 13:45:00 GMT

On December 24, 2024, Pope Francis launched the Jubilee Year under the theme of "Pilgrims of Hope" by opening the Holy Doors at St. Peter’s Basilica in The Vatican. On December 29, 2024, dioceses around the world celebrated their own launches of the Holy Year, including our own Archdiocese of Toronto. Worldwide, the Catholic Church will commemorate the Jubilee throughout 2025. Here in the Durham Region, St. Gregory the Great Parish in Oshawa has been designated as a holy place of worship and a pilgrimage destiation during the Jubilee Year.

Families, staff, and community members of the Durham Catholic District School Board are invited to a special Jubilee 2025 Mass, which will take place at St. Gregory the Great Parish (194 Simcoe Street N., Oshawa) on Wednesday, January 29, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. Bishop Vincent Nguyen will be presiding and a reception will follow in the Parish Hall.

Please visit the Archdiocese of Toronto website for more information on Jubilee 2025.

DCDSB Anti-Black Racism and Black Excellence Advisory Committee Invites Nominations for Chair and Parent Representatives

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 16:30:00 GMT

The Anti-Black Racism and Black Excellence Advisory Committee is currently seeking a new Chair and five Parent Area Representatives - one person representing each municipality (Ajax, Oshawa, Pickering, Whitby and Beaverton/Port Perry/Uxbridge).

Details about the position, eligibility requirements, and the nomination and election process, can be found on our website. Nominations are open until Monday, September 15, 2025.

Click here to visit our website to learn more and submit a nomination today.

All DCDSB Schools and Offices Closed Thursday, February 13, 2025

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 11:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The health and safety of Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) students and staff is our highest priority. As you are likely aware, a major winter storm went through Durham Region overnight, and has caused dangerous driving conditions, bus cancellations and freezing rain on Thursday, February 13, 2025.

Considering this information and the safety of students and staff, DCDSB has made the decision to close all schools and offices on Thursday, February 13, 2025. Before and after school childcare programs will be cancelled. Full day childcare programs that operate within our schools will also be closed and will communicate with families independently.

It is never an easy decision to close our schools, and we know the weather can be unpredictable and may impact each town or city differently. We have been closely monitoring the conditions in hopes they would be clear this morning. The snowfall experienced overnight has made it unsafe for many students and staff to attend school today.

Our elementary schools will re-open on Friday, February 14, 2025. Please note that February 14 is a Professional Development Day for secondary schools – secondary students will resume classes on Tuesday, February 18 following the PD Day and Family Day weekend.

We pray for everyone who may be impacted by the storm and thank our DCDSB students and families for your continued partnership in support of our students.

Yours in hope and faith,

Gerard Winn
Director of Education

Free Parent Event - Connection is Key: Promoting Positive Mental Health

Mon, 01 Oct 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Parent and community members are welcome to attend this free event. Funding graciously provided by our Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) Parent Reaching Out Grant. Advance registration is required visit: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/connection-is-key-promoting-positive-mental-health-tickets-41075034534

Doors open at 5:15 p.m. for registration, displays and refreshments.

Keynote speaker: Dr. Jean Clinton
Clinical Professor, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University.
Education Advisor to the Premier of Ontario and Minister of Education

Keynote address: The relationships that we have with our children are essential components of healthy brain development. These relationships play a key role all the way from early brain development to healthy adolescent development. This presentation will explore brain development through the lens that relationships and love build brains.

Breakout sessions offered by Durham Catholic District School Board Student Services staff and community partners:

Stress Behaviour vs. Misbehaviour
Understanding and Supporting Your Worried Child
Mindful Parenting

Advent Message

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 14:00:00 GMT

Dear Families,

As the season of Advent begins this Sunday, December 1, we are reminded of the profound meaning this time holds within our Catholic faith. Advent is a time of spiritual preparation and reflection as we anticipate the celebration of the birth of our Saviour, Jesus Christ.

This season offers us an opportunity to pause and reflect on the values of hope, peace, joy and love. It is a time to gather with family and friends, and to reach out to those in need within our community as we live out our faith through acts of charity.

In our schools, Advent is also a time of learning and spiritual growth. Our students engage in activities that deepen their understanding of Christmas and participate in acts of service and kindness that reflect the teachings of Jesus. Many of our schools will be raising much-needed funds for the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation, ShareLife, Feed the Need, and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, amongst other community organizations. We know this time of year brings much joy but may also be a difficult season for some in our community. Any support you can provide – either financial, or through volunteering or other acts of generosity, is appreciated.

We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our families for your ongoing support and partnership. Your dedication to your children's education and your commitment to nurturing a strong, faith-filled community are so important to student success and well-being. We have created a webpage that contains links to many Advent resources that you may wish to use at home with your children. Please visit dcdsb.ca/Advent to access these resources. Together, we can continue to focus on our mission to be an inclusive Catholic learning community that inspires every student to achieve their full potential through faith and education.

As we journey through Advent, let us keep in our hearts the message of hope and the promise of new beginnings that Christmas brings.

Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed Advent season.

Yours in hope and faith,

Gerard Winn Monique Forster
Director of Education Chair, Board of Trustees

Federal Guidelines for Travelling with Unvaccinated Children Outside of Canada

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 13:00:00 GMT

The Durham Region Health Department has asked the board to remind parents and guardians of the following federal guidelines for unvaccinated children who travel outside of Canada.

Student has travelled outside of Canada

The student must follow federal guidelines for quarantine and testing after returning from international travel.
If the student is fully vaccinated they may be exempt from federal quarantine. If the child/student is not fully vaccinated, they are not to attend school/child care for 14 days, even if they traveled with a vaccinated companion.
If the student develops a symptom from the full list of COVID-19 symptoms, they should self-isolate and get tested right away.

Household member has travelled outside of Canada

If anyone in the household has travelled outside of Canada in the last 14 days, the person who travelled must self-isolate for 14 days if they do not meet the exemptions for federal quarantine requirements.
The other individuals in the household who have not travelled can attend school/child care/work, as long as they don't have symptoms of COVID-19.
If the household member who travelled develops a symptom from the full list of COVID-19 symptoms, the student will need to stay home until COVID-19 is ruled out unless the student is fully vaccinated or has had a previous recent COVID-19 infection.

FAQ’s on Durham.ca School Toolkit

Visit the Region of Durham’s website Schools Reopening Toolkit for more information.

Q. What if my child travelled outside of Canada and is fully vaccinated against COVID-19?
Fully vaccinated children who have travelled outside of Canada and meet the requirements to be exempt from federal quarantine, are able to attend school. Visit COVID-19 vaccinated travelers entering Canada for more information.

What if my child travelled outside of Canada and is not fully vaccinated against COVID-19?

Unvaccinated children less than 12 years of age who enter Canada with their fully vaccinated parents, step-parents, guardians or tutors, are not required to quarantine upon entering Canada if both the child and the parents, step-parents, guardians or tutors, meet certain requirements in the Order and comply with the conditions imposed on them by the Minister of Health.

The following is what your child cannot do for the next 14 days:

Attend a setting where they may have contact with vulnerable people (e.g., long-term care facility), including with people who are immune compromised, regardless of that person’s vaccination status or public health measures in place.
Attend school, camp or day care.
Travel on crowded public transportation that does not ensure physical distancing and masking (e.g., crowded subway).
Attend large crowded settings, indoors or outdoors, such as an amusement park or sporting event.

As well, here is a link to DRHD’s updated poster for school screening:

STOP COVID-19 (durham.ca)

Resource

For more information, read the following Government of Canada resource.

Covid-19: For unvaccinated children under 12 without symptoms and travelling with fully vaccinated parents or guardians: COVID-19: For unvaccinated children under 12 without symptoms and travelling with fully vaccinated parents or guardians - Canada.ca

Grade One French Immersion Parent Information Night

Thu, 22 Nov 2018 13:45:00 GMT

Online registration for Grade One French Immersion for the 2019-2020 school year will take place between December 10, 2018 to January 18, 2019. For a list of Durham Catholic French Immersion Schools, click here.

Attend one of our parent information sessions to learn more the program:

November 27, 2018 at 6:30 p.m.
St. Patrick Catholic School, 280 Delaney Drive, Ajax
November 29, 2018 at 6:30 p.m.
St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic School, 95 Waller Street, Whitby

Today is the Last Day to Complete the Student Census

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Just a reminder that the Stand Up, Be Counted, Be Heard Student Census ends today, April 29, 2022. We invite you to share your voice by completing the voluntary and optional census today!

Thank you to everyone who has participated in the student census this week! Your answers will help improve the Durham Catholic District School Board community and will ensure that every student succeeds.

DCDSB News - October 2025

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

The October 2025 issue of the DCDSB News is now available. Please read the newsletter below.

Faith:

October is the Month of the Rosary
The month of October is dedicated to the Rosary. As Catholics, we have witnessed the power of praying the rosary and the comfort and healing it offers during difficult times. As a Catholic learning community, we encourage students and families to pray the rosary.

Please visit our website to learn how to pray the rosary.

St. Bernadette Catholic School Celebrates the Jubilee Year
To commemorate the current Holy Year and the theme, “Pilgrims of Hope,” a special Jubilee Cross was designed and built by staff and students at Archbishop Denis O’Connor Catholic High School and has been making its way around to all schools in the DCDSB.

On Friday, September 19, 2025, the cross left St. James Catholic School, accompanied by a group of students to bring it to it's next stop, St. Bernadette Catholic School. The St. Bernadette choir members and Leadership Team walked to St. James with their Vice Principal, Ms. Gad, to greet and receive the cross. At the encounter, the group of students prayed a Hail Mary together in French, honouring the St. James French Immersion Program, and St. Bernadette's French patron saint, St. Bernadette, who was devoted to Mother Mary. The group of students walked the cross back to St. Bernadette Catholic School where a liturgy was held in the garden at the front of the school. The school choir, led by Mr. Prior and Mme. Senay, sang beautifully for the occasion, bringing joy and peace to the liturgy.

The cross was then put on display in the school foyer until the end of the day when staff from Archbishop Denis O'Connor picked it up to continue its journey through the DCDSB.

St. Bernadette Catholic School created a video to encapsulate their time with the Jubilee Cross. Please click here to watch the video.

Indigenous Education:

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
On Tuesday, September 30, the school community at St. John Paul II Catholic School came together to recognize and acknowledge National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

Grade 7 and 8 students led a thoughtful assembly that focused on their ongoing commitment to Truth and Reconciliation and the 94 Calls to Action. Staff and students were given the opportunity to reflect, learn and grow in prayer and understanding.

Walking Together in Truth and Reconciliation
On Friday, September 26, five classes from St. Matthew the Evangelist Catholic School and St. Bernard Catholic School took part in Walking Together: Honouring the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, an event organized by the Region of Durham. Many students chose to wear orange Every Child Matters shirts as a sign of support. They joined Regional staff and community members to hear from Indigenous speakers, including representatives from the Oshawa and Durham Métis Council. Students experienced traditional drumming and listened to the Men’s Honour Song and Women’s Honour Song while celebrating Indigenous voices, traditions, and culture. Students also participated in a commemorative walk from Regional Headquarters along Rossland Road to Fallingbrook Park where they listened to additional speakers.

DCDSB Updates:

Update Your Direction of School Support
Registering your child in a Durham Catholic school is the strongest show of support for Catholic education a parent or guardian can make.

Another way Catholic parents/guardians and community members can support Catholic education in Durham Region is by ensuring that you direct your school support to the English-Separate system with the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC).

To verify whether you are registered as an English Catholic school supporter, check the assessment section of your tax bill or Property Assessment Notice.

MPAC has an online option for families and community members to be able to update their school support. Catholic parents and property owners can visit the following website to begin the online process of updating their school support.

Click here to learn more about how to update your Direction of School Support.

Anti-Black Racism and Black Excellence Advisory Committee 2025-2026 ExecutiveThe DCDSB recognizes that an equitable, inclusive education system is fundamental to achieving its mission and evolving core priorities. The DCDSB recognizes that any form of overt or covert racism and discrimination is incompatible with Catholic values and is in violation of the Ontario Human Rights Code.

The DCDSB is committed to listening to its diverse communities and to addressing disparities within the board, with a view to cultivating a board community that promotes human rights, equity, anti-racism and inclusion. The collaboration with the Anti-Black Racism and Black Excellence Advisory Committee provides a medium for effectively addressing and dismantling disadvantages and discrimination, historical or otherwise, experienced by Black students, staff and families in our Board.

The committee is comprised of community members and parents, guardians and caregivers of DCDSB students.

We invite you to meet the 2025-2026 executive members:

Nicole Emanuel – Chair
Lateasha Chevers – Vice-Chair
Sophie Williams – Ajax Parent Area Representative
Nicole Cyrus – Brock/Scugog/Uxbridge Parent Area Representative
Linda Akinyemi – Oshawa Parent Area Representative
Terry-Lynn Razac Huggins – Pickering Parent Area Representative
James Oritse – Whitby Parent Area Representative
Representatives from community-based organizations

To learn more about the Anti-Black Racism and Black Excellence Advisory Committee, please visit our website.

Applications for the Regional Arts & Media Program Now Open!
DCDSB's Regional Arts & Media Program (AMP), which is located at All Saints Catholic Secondary School in Whitby, is now accepting applications!

AMP offers specialized instruction in Dance, Media Arts (Grade 9 entry only), Instrumental Music, Performing Arts (Drama and Vocal Music), and Visual Arts, in addition to the existing curriculum.

Be sure to check out the AMP Information Night at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, for an opportunity to tour the facilities, speak with teachers, and learn more about the program.

Current Grade 6 and Grade 8 students are invited to apply now for a September 2026 start.

Visit amp.dcdsb.ca to learn more about the application and audition process.

DCDSB Inspire 2026 Survey - We Want to Hear from You!
The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is committed to transparent and ongoing engagement with students, staff, families, and members of the Durham Catholic learning community. As we enter the third year of implementing our multi-year strategic plan, Inspire 2026, we are seeking your input to help guide current implementation efforts and future planning.

The strategic priorities outlined in Inspire 2026 are:

Supporting Faith and Well-Being
Advancing Human Rights and Equity
Improving Student Learning

We invite all students, staff, families and members of the Durham Catholic learning community to participate in a brief survey designed to gather feedback on the following:

What aspects are working well in terms of the implementation of our multi-year plan, Inspire 2026, and what suggestions do you have for our future planning?

Please click here to participate in this brief survey.

Your feedback will play an important role in informing and monitoring the progress of our strategic plan. The survey will remain open until Friday, October 31, 2025.

We kindly ask that all responses remain respectful and constructive to ensure thoughtful dialogue about the board’s plans.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support.

Seaton #1 and Boundary Changes to Ajax and Pickering Schools
We would like to share important information regarding upcoming boundary reviews connected to the new Seaton #1 Catholic Elementary School in Pickering. These changes affect select schools in Pickering and Ajax. Visit our website to learn more about the proposed boundary revisions, information about upcoming public meetings, and ways for families to provide feedback: Seaton #1 and Changes to Ajax and Pickering Schools Study

November People of Peace Nominations are Open
Families, students and staff are invited to nominate a DCDSB student or employee that exemplifies and embodies the monthly theme for the People of Peace recognition program. The theme for November is: A Peacemaker of Justice.

The selected nominees will be recognized during the November Board Meeting. The deadline to submit your nominations for the November theme is 4:00 p.m. on Friday, October 31.

Visit our website to make your nominations: dcdsb.ca/PeopleOfPeace.

Mental Health and Well-Being:

World Mental Health Day
October 10 is World Mental Health Day, which focuses on raising awareness about mental health. Just like physical health, learning about mental health - understanding it, and taking care of it - is important. When we understand how to recognize mental health concerns and the impact stigma can have on our ability to ask for help, we are in a better position to support our children. Learn more about mental health and stigma in these short videos:

Parent and Guardian Resources:

A Message to Parents from the Student Services Department
As students settle into the new school year, we would like to remind parents of students with special education needs and their families that they may be eligible to access a wide range of community-based programs and services. For more information on these programs and services, please click on links below.

In publicly funded schools, students may be eligible for School-Based Rehabilitation Services (SBRS), delivered by Children’s Treatments Centres (CTC), which includes Speech-Language Pathology, Occupational Therapy, and Physiotherapy to help students participate more fully in school and daily life.

There are also supports outside of the school system for which families may be eligible: the Ontario Autism Program (OAP) provides foundational family services, caregiver-mediated early years programs, entry-to-school supports, urgent response services, and core clinical services for autistic children; intake support through AccessOAP or by calling 1-833-425-2445; the Special Services at Home (SSAH) program, which can provide funding for respite and personal development; and the Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities (ACSD) program, which may provide financial support for families with children who have significant disabilities. Families may also benefit from Respite Services, Children’s Rehabilitation Services, or the Preschool Speech and Language Program.

Help Your Child Stay Safe Online
October is K–12 Cyber Awareness Month!

As digital technologies and artificial intelligence become a bigger part of our children’s lives, it's more important than ever to help kids build safe online habits. By learning how to spot scams, protect personal information and think critically online, families can reduce the risk of cyber threats and create safer digital spaces for everyone – especially their children.

The K–12 Cyber Awareness parent guide and website offer free, age-appropriate resources to support these conversations at home.

Highlights from the Parent Guide:

Four key themes: Cyber Security Basics, Artificial Intelligence, Digital Wellness and Online Communities
Age-specific resources: “Cyber Heroes Unite” for Grades K–8 and “Digital Me” for Grades 9–12
Practical tools: Videos, posters, info-sheets and lesson plans to spark family conversations
10 steps for parents: Easy ways to model safe online behaviour at home
Year-round access: Resources available anytime to support ongoing learning

DCDSB Students:

DCDSB Celebrates 50th Franco-Ontarian Day Anniversary
On Thursday, September 25, 2025, we celebrated the 50th Franco-Ontarian Day Anniversary! Le lever du drapeau est une façon importante de reconnaître l’influence de la culture francophone en Ontario. We are proud to celebrate the Francophone community and the contributions they have made in Ontario.

Thank you to St. Patrick Catholic School for hosting this special Franco-Ontarian Day celebration.

Planting Trees at St. Joseph Catholic School in Oshawa
On Monday, September 29, St. Joseph Catholic School’s Garden Club spent the afternoon planting new trees with their Chief Custodian, Mr. Dupuis, and Garden Club teacher, Ms. Caruso. St. Joseph Catholic School Principal, Mrs. Principe, entered the school in The Oshawa Environmental Advisory Committee’s annual tree giveaway, with City of Oshawa, to receive a free tree for the school yard. Not only was the school fortunate enough to receive one tree, but they received ten additional trees! Thank you to the City of Oshawa for the opportunity.

Continuing Education:

Archbishop Anthony Meagher’s Free PSW Program – Beaverton, Port Perry, Ajax and Oshawa
The Personal Support Worker (PSW) program at Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre is well-established in the Durham Region and students have a proven, high success rate of employment upon completion. In addition to training PSWs, students can earn credits toward their high school diploma and receive support for pathway planning to college or university nursing programs.

For 2025-2026 school year, the material fee of $1100 is waived for all students in the program and there is no tuition. Students who complete their placements in Long-Term Care facilities are also eligible for a work stipend through Ministry funding.

Archbishop Anthony Meagher’s PSW Program is a quality assured program. It includes classroom training and a co-op placement, with the majority of students finding jobs when they’ve completed the program. The next program starts on January 30, 2026, with spots still available in Oshawa, Port Perry, and a brand-new location in Beaverton. Visit con-ed.ca/psw to register for an upcoming orientation.

Visit con-ed.ca/psw to find out more.

Upcoming Events:

October is the month of the Rosary, Learning Disabilities Month, and Women's History Month. October is also German, Islamic, Latin American and Hispanic Heritage Month.

Oct. 4: National Day of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit People (Sisters in Spirit Vigil)
Oct. 5: World Teachers' Day
Oct. 7: Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) Meeting
Oct. 9: Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) Meeting
Oct. 10: World Mental Health Day
Oct. 11: International Day of the Girl
Oct. 13: Thanksgiving
Oct. 14: Policy Board Meeting
Oct. 15: Clergy and Chaplain Appreciation Day
Oct. 20: Diwali
Oct. 20: Elementary and Secondary P.A. Day
Oct. 20-24: Bus Safety Week
Oct. 21: Childcare Worker and Designated Early Childhood Educator (DECE) Appreciation Day
Oct. 22: Dress Purple Day (Supporting Children, Youth and Families)
Oct. 22: Regional Arts and Media Program (AMP) Open House
Oct. 23: Bus Driver Appreciation Day
Oct. 27: Regular Board Meeting
Oct. 31: Halloween

Click here and subscribe to our calendar to receive reminders about holidays, P.A. days, events, and recognition days.

DCDSB News: September 2021

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 16:00:00 GMT

DCDSB News: September 2021
A monthly newsletter to keep parents and guardians informed of DCDSB news, events, and highlights.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
September 30, 2021 is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Staff and students are invited to wear an orange-coloured shirt or clothing to show your solidarity with survivors and non-survivors of residential schools.

This year the Government of Canada passed legislation recognizing September 30 as a federal statutory holiday to commemorate the tragic effect of residential schools in Canada and the continuing impact on Indigenous communities. This day seeks to ensure that the devastating history and ongoing legacy of residential schools is never forgotten.

This day of recognition provides an opportunity for Indigenous people, local governments, schools, and communities to come together in the spirit of reconciliation and hope for generations of children to come. Phyllis Webstad, a Stswecem’c Xgat’tem Shuswap First Nation woman established Orange Shirt Day in 2013 to build awareness of the residential school system. Phyllis's new orange shirt was taken from her on her first day of residential school in 1973. For additional information, visit https://www.orangeshirtday.org/.

DCDSB will be sharing details about the Tulips for Truth initiative that students and families are invited to participate in on September 30 as a tribute to Indigenous peoples and a sign of our hope for a better future. Further details will be shared with families shortly.

Post-Secondary Education Virtual Information Sessions
Grade 9-12 students and families are invited to learn more about:

Post-Secondary Programs
Application Processes

Q&A Sessions to follow with Student Recruitment Officers from Ontario Institutions.

Ontario Colleges and Apprenticeships: October 6, 2021 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Click here to access the Microsoft Teams event.

Ontario Universities: October 7, 2021 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Click here to access the Microsoft Teams event.

For further information and to download the poster please visit our website.

Our Faith: Youth Ministries and Sacramental Preparation

Youth Ministries: Our local parishes offer students in Grade 6-12 the opportunity to join one of the youth ministry's programs. Please visit our website for further information.
Sacramental Preparation: Sacramental preparation information is listed on our website from each parish. Please find your child's school on our website to find the contact and/or registration information for First Reconciliation, First Holy Communion and Confirmation preparation at the parish that supports your child’s school. Please visit our website for further information.

Please note that we will continue to update these webpages with information as it becomes available. Families who have children attending the Durham Catholic Virtual Elementary School (DCVES) should contact the parish that is connected to the school that their child previously attended (i.e. prior to attending the DCVES).

School Mental Health Ontario
Mental health is everyone’s business, and we all have a role to play. As a parent, guardian, caregiver or family member, you have a particularly special role in supporting child and youth mental health.

Naturally, this begins with supporting your own child(ren) and young family members, to help them to grow into mentally healthy and resilient adults. Understanding the sorts of skills that help to support good mental health in an ongoing way, and how best to reinforce these skills as part of regular family life, can also help to start and keep young people on a good path.

School Mental Health Ontario offers information and ideas to help you to build and nurture your child’s mental health while your child is attending elementary or secondary school. To learn more, and to access additional resources, please visit the School Mental Health Ontario website.

Student Spotlight
Welcome to Student Spotlight, an opportunity to meet and learn about our DCDSB students and how they are promoting Excellence, Equity and Engagement.

This month, we are pleased to introduce Emma Fischer and Dimiana Saaed from All Saints Catholic Secondary School, whose winning design submissions were combined for this year's Community of Faith poster.

Click here to view a video of Emma and Dimiana discussing their poster design.

Upcoming Events
Important dates and upcoming events in September 2021 are listed below:

Sept. 17 - Pop-up Walk-in COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic at Arch. Denis O'Connor CHS at 4:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Sept. 20 - Federal Election Day
Sept. 20 - Beyond the orange Shirt Story - Live Book Launch with Phyllis Webstad
Sept. 21 - Pop-up Walk-in COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic at All Saints CSS at 4:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Sept. 23 - St. Anne Catholic School's Official School Blessing Celebration
Sept. 23 - Pop-Up Walk-In COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic at Arch. Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre (Ajax Campus) and Father Donald MacLellan CSS at 4:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Sept. 23 - Supporting Your Child's Mental Health Through the Impact of Racism and Oppression
Sept. 24 - Pop-Up Walk-In COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic at Arch. Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre (Whitby - Giffard Centre) at 4:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Sept. 25 - Franco Ontarian Day
Sept. 27 - Oct. 1 - The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation is hosting virtual events for staff students and families. Please visit the NCTR website for further information.
Sept. 28 - From Zoom to Classroom: How to Support Your Child's Social-Emotional Development when Returning to School
Sept. 29 - Rowan's Law Day
Sept. 30 - Orange Shirt Day
Sept. 30 - National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Oct. 1 - Deadline to apply for the Métis Nation of Ontario Christmas Gift Program

Please visit our calendar for more important dates and upcoming events.

Welding Workshop for Grade 8 Girls

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 13:15:00 GMT

Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is pleased to continue to offer a Welding Workshop for Grade 8 Girls. Open to females currently in Grade 8, along with a family member (parent, guardian, caregiver etc.), this workshop will introduce participants to the world of welding.

Thanks to generous funding from the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program, the Welding Workshop is being offered free of charge.

October Session:

Locations:

Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School (1020 Dryden Blvd, Whitby)
St. Mary Catholic Secondary School (1918 Whites Road, Pickering)

Time:

5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Dates:

Wednesday, October 15, 2025
Wednesday, October 22, 2025
Wednesday, October 29, 2025

November Session:

Location:

Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School (1020 Dryden Blvd, Whitby)
St. Mary Catholic Secondary School (1918 Whites Road, Pickering)

Time:

5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Dates:

Wednesday, November 5, 2025
Wednesday, November 12, 2025
Wednesday, November 19, 2025

To register, please complete the online form, which will remain open until Friday, October 3, 2025. Spots are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, and a family member is required to attend all three sessions with their student.

Please contact Jason Cannon, DCDSB Pathways Coordinator, if you have any questions.

St. Joseph Catholic School Donates to Feed the Need in Durham

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 19:15:00 GMT

Throughout September 2024, students, families and staff at St. Joseph Catholic School in Oshawa brought in donations of food for Feed the Need in Durham. The school was able to donate 1,345 lbs of food, which is equivalent to 1121 meals! These donations will go to hunger relief programs to support individuals and families in Durham Region this Thanksgiving season.

COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics for Children Ages 5 to 11

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 21:15:00 GMT

November 23, 2021

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Below is a message from the Durham Region Health Department regarding COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics for Children ages 5 to 11.

Effective November 23, 2021, parents and guardians are eligible to book their 5 to 11 year old children for an appointment to receive the COVID-19 vaccine in Durham Region. Currently, the Pfizer vaccine is the only vaccine approved for use in Canada for this age group. The recently approved pediatric version is a lower two-dose series (one third of what is available for individuals 12 years and older) given eight weeks apart.

Vaccinating children will provide them with strong protection against COVID-19 and the highly contagious Delta variant. The vaccine will decrease serious illness and long-term effects from COVID-19, help keep schools open, and reduce the rare but serious complication called multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). Since children can be infected and not have any symptoms, vaccination will help protect other family members too, such as those who are too young to receive the vaccine yet or vulnerable elderly individuals.

Each of Durham Region’s eight municipalities will host community immunization clinics dedicated to children born in 2010 to 2016. Clinics will also be available in select schools across Durham Region. These clinics are by appointment only and are dedicated to vaccinating children of this age group. Older children and family members will not be able to get their vaccine at these clinics but remain eligible to receive immunization by booking at a community clinic for adolescents and adults.

We encourage you to visit durham.ca/covidvaccines for to access tips and resources to prepare your child for their vaccine experience. To book an appointment at a community clinic, visit www.durham.ca/vaccineappointment or call 1-888-444-5113. Children will also be able to obtain their vaccine through select pharmacies and health care providers based on availability.

Sincerely,

Durham Region Health Department

DCDSB Celebrates Inaugural Black Student Excellence Awards

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 13:45:00 GMT

On Thursday, November 7, 2024, the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) hosted the inaugural Black Student Excellence Awards. A collaboration between the DCDSB and the board’s Anti-Black Racism and Black Excellence Advisory Committee, the awards honour Grade 11 and Grade 12 students who self-identify as Black and have demonstrated leadership and/or commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion efforts.

The Anti-Black Racism and Black Excellence Advisory Committee reviewed each of the nominations made by DCDSB secondary schools. “We are so proud of the amazing students we have in Durham Catholic and are happy to have an opportunity to celebrate the achievements and successes of Black students within the Durham Catholic learning community,” said Shauna Bookal, Chair of the Anti-Black Racism and Black Excellence Advisory Committee.

At the awards ceremony, all nominees were honoured, and provided with a certificate, a letter of recognition, and a $100 bursary. The nominees honoured were:

Nathan C., All Saints Catholic Secondary School
Shadae Corina T., All Saints Catholic Secondary School
Brenda O., Archbishop Denis O’Connor Catholic High School
Rejoice O., Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School
Temitope O., Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School
Esosa M., Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School
Temidayo Esther O., Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School
Kaylia D., Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School
Ololade A., Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School
Nathyn T., St. Mary Catholic Secondary School
Tarie D., St. Mary Catholic Secondary School

After much deliberation, the committee was pleased to present Sadé L., a Grade 12 student at Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School in Whitby, with the Black Student Excellence Award for the 2024-2025 school year. Sadé was recognized at the awards ceremony and received a certificate, a letter of recognition, a glass trophy, and a $500 bursary.

Sadé displays a commitment to academic excellence and consistently achieves high grades in her courses. She is a strong leader and role model in her school and was a Student Senator representing Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School in the 2023-2024 school year, in which she advocated for Black student voices. This school year, Sadé is on the Student Council, in which she is the diversity and equity lead, and represents student voice on the Catholic School Council. She is an active participant in the school’s Black Student Union.

As a lifelong learner, Sadé seeks out opportunities to learn and shares that learning with her peers. During the 2024 March Break, Sadé participated in a cultural learning experience in British Columbia that focused on honouring Indigenous peoples, and she shared this learning with her English class when she returned. She seeks to ensure space is provided to all students for their voices to be heard. Sadé is a positive role model for all students at Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School, and her teachers speak highly of her contributions to the school community. Sadé is a strong advocate for diversity and enthusiastically engages in conversations about creating an open culture of equity and inclusion at the school.

“I am honoured to receive the first ever Black Student Excellence Award,” said Sadé L., DCDSB Black Student Excellence Award recipient. “I want to thank my teachers and my family for all their support. This award is not just a celebration of my achievements, but a reminder of the strength, resilience, and brilliance within the Black community.”

“This celebration honours the efforts and excellence of Black students at the DCDSB who are paving the way toward a more equitable, diverse, and inclusive future,” said Gerard Winn, DCDSB Director of Education. “Your voices and contributions are important and truly valued at Durham Catholic. You should be incredibly proud of your dedication and commitment to excellence that goes beyond academic achievement. You have demonstrated leadership by uplifting one another and promoting inclusion, which benefits all in our learning community.”

Visit the DCDSB Black Student Excellence Awards webpage to learn more.

DCDSB News - Back-to-School 2025

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 14:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

The Back-to-School 2025 issue of the DCDSB News is now available. Please read the newsletter below.

Faith:

Spiritual Theme: Blessed are the Peacemakers
On May 8, 2025, Pope Leo XIV greeted the city of Rome and the world with these words at his first appearance as the Successor of Peter from the Central Loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica:

“Peace be with you all! Dear brothers and sisters, these are the first words spoken by the risen Christ, the Good Shepherd who laid down his life for God’s flock. I would like this greeting of peace to resound in your hearts, in your families, among all people, wherever they may be, in every nation and throughout the world. Peace be with you! It is the peace of the risen Christ. A peace that is unarmed and disarming, humble and persevering. A peace that comes from God, the God who loves us all, unconditionally.”

Inspired by Pope Leo’s invocation of peace, and his prayer that “one and all” may be helped “to build bridges through dialogue and encounter, joining together as one people, always at peace,” the DCDSB community will be guided by the spiritual theme of Blessed are the Peacemakers (Matthew 5:9) for the 2025-2026 school year.

We invite you to learn more about this year's spiritual theme and the poster design on our website.

DCDSB Updates:

School Year Calendar
Our 2025-2026 School Year Calendar is now available. Click here and subscribe to our calendar receive reminders about holidays, P.A. days, events, and recognition days.

Cell Phone and Mobile Device Use in Schools
Provincial policy states that all members of the school community must not use personal mobile devices during instructional time except under the following circumstances:

For educational purposes, as directed by an educator;
For health and medical purposes; and/or
To support special education needs.

During the 2025-2026 school year:

Kindergarten - Grade 8 students must store their cell phones/personal mobile devices out of sight for the full school day. Devices must be powered off or set to silent during school hours, which includes recess and lunch hour (i.e. any time the student is on school property). Cell phone/personal mobile device usage is only permitted if the educator deems it necessary for educational purposes.
Grade 9-12 students must turn off their cell phones/personal mobile devices or set to silent during instructional time, except where use is permitted by the educator for educational purposes.

All social media sites and apps, including Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, Snapchat, Threads, Tik Tok, and Discord will not be available on school or board Wifi. Social media platforms can only be used by students at school for educational purposes, directed by an educator. Visit our website for more information.

Smoke, Drug, and Vape-Free Schools
A reminder there is absolutely no smoking, vaping, e-cigarettes, or cannabis, permitted inside our schools, on school or board property, or within 20 metres of school property. If you are found to be carrying, selling, buying, giving, or using vape or tobacco products on school property, you may be subject to disciplinary action or may be charged under the Smoke-Free Ontario Act.

If a student is found in possession of one of these substances, parents/guardians/caregivers will be notified, and the item(s) must be given to an educator or administrator. To learn more about smoke, drug and vape-free schools, please visit our website.

Steps to Addressing Questions and Concerns
We believe that open, respectful, two-way communication builds relationships and enhances student success.

Durham Catholic District School Board requests that questions or concerns be directed to the level closest to the issue. We have created a webpage that is available on board and school sites and outlines the process in order to help parents, guardians, caregivers and community members know who to contact with questions and/or concerns.

Click here to learn more.

DCDSB Right to Disconnect
Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) staff believe in the value of open and responsive communication between home and school in support of our students.

As a school board with approximately 2,300 staff members, we are committed to supporting positive work-life balance for our employees. We take this responsibility seriously and believe that the overall health and well-being of our staff impacts their ability to effectively support the learning needs of our students.

The DCDSB Right to Disconnect from Work Policy, protects the right of staff to disconnect from work between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. on weekdays, all day on weekends, approved vacation days, statutory holidays and board-designated non-working days.

We recognize that families have different responsibilities and work obligations of their own, which may impact the times when they are able to write notes and/or emails to their children’s school and/or educators. All parents, guardians and caregivers are advised that in most cases, communication received after hours will not be responded to until the next working day.

Thank you for your continued partnership to support the mental health and well-being of all in our Durham Catholic learning community.

DCDSB Named One of Canada's Best Employers for Company Culture 2025 by Forbes
The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is proud to announce that it has been recognized by Forbes and Statista as one of Canada’s Best Employers for Company Culture 2025. This prestigious honour, part of a new award category introduced this year, highlights organizations across the country that foster exceptional internal cultures and are valued by their employees. The DCDSB is the only organization based in the Durham Region to be acknowledged on the list. Read the full article.

Parent, Guardian and Caregiver Resources:

Report a Student Absence Through Safe Arrival
If your child is going to be absent, notify the school by using one of the following methods:

Safe Arrival portal login: go.schoolmessenger.ca
Call the toll free number: 1-844-288-7628
Report the absence through our smartphone mobile application: SchoolMessenger. Available from the App Store and Google Play Store.

Please click here for more information on SchoolMessenger and for steps on how to create an account.

2025-2026 Bus Transportation information
Durham Student Transportation Services (DSTS) is responsible for ensuring safe and efficient transportation to and from schools for eligible students. Transportation and route information for the 2025-2026 School year is now available. Please use the automated phone line at 905-666-6979, or the DSTS Family Portal to access it online. Please note that parents and guardians will require their child(ren)'s Ontario Education Number (OEN) to subscribe to the Family Portal. If you need assistance in accessing the Family Portal, please refer to the information document on how to access this service.

Class Placements and Timetables
Durham Student Transportation Services (DSTS) is responsible for ensuring safe and efficient transportation to and from schools for eligible students. Transportation and route information for the 2025-2026 School year is now available. Please use the automated phone line at 905-666-6979, or the DSTS Family Portal to access it online. Please note that parents and guardians will require their child(ren)'s Ontario Education Number (OEN) to subscribe to the Family Portal. If you need assistance in accessing the Family Portal, please refer to the information document on how to access this service.

Supports for Students with Special Education Needs
Students with special education needs will continue to be supported through individualized service and program plans in the DCDSB.

Educators will continue to provide accommodations, modified expectations, and alternative programming to students with special education needs, consulting with parents/caregivers in the development of their IEPs for the 2025-2026 school year. In addition, we have been supporting students with special needs throughout the summer through a variety of programs including our Literacy and Numeracy-related camps, PEERs camp and Transitional programs.

We are working to provide continued access to assistive technology, including Special Equipment Amount (SEA) equipment, where needed to support student learning. We look forward to continuing to support our students with special education needs through the home, school, and parish partnership.

Back to School Letter from the Minister of Education
The Honourable Paul Calandra, Minister of Education, shares Back-to-School greetings with students, families and educators across the province.

Click here to read the Minister of Education's letter.

DCDSB Students:

DCDSB Celebrates Student Leadership and Advocacy During Summer Programming
This summer, students in the Leadership and Recreation and Deconstructing Anti-Black Racism courses demonstrated exceptional leadership, insight, and community engagement — both inside and outside the classroom. Read the full story.

DCDSB Summer Camps
This summer, students from the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) engaged in a variety of enriching camps through Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre. These camps promoted wellness, creativity, and STEM learning. At the Recreation and Fitness Camp, students stayed active through sports and games while learning about teamwork, stretching, and nutrition. The Cooking Camp blended math and culinary skills, and encouraged healthy choices while showing how math is used in everyday life. Meanwhile, the Coding and Robotics Camp offered hands-on STEM experiences, where students collaborated to program robots for a ring challenges, combining math, coding, and problem-solving in a fun and interactive way. To learn more about these camps and non-credit classes, please visit con-ed.ca.

Continuing Education:

Continuing Education Program Guide
The 2025-2026 Adult & Continuing Education Program Guide is now available! Click here to download the program guide.

Learn more about Adult & Continuing Education at Con-Ed.ca.

Follow Us on Social Media!
Stay connected with our Durham Catholic learning community! Follow us for important info, school bus & weather updates, and more:

Instagram: http://instagram.com/durhamcatholic
Facebook: http://facebook.com/DurhamCatholic

Upcoming Events:
September is the month of the Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Sept 1: World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation
Sept 1: Labour Day
Sept 2: First Day of School
Sept 5: Feast Day of St. Teresa of Calcutta
Sept 7: Ukrainian Heritage Day
Sept 8: International Literacy Day
Sept 8: Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Sept 9: Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) Meeting
Sept 10: World Suicide Prevention Day
Sept 11: Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) Meeting
Sept 15-19: Safe and Accepting Schools Week
Sept 15: Payroll, Business, Finance & Accounting Professionals Day
Sept 16: IT Professionals Day
Sept 19: Powley Day
Sept 21: Feast Day of Matthew the Evangelist
Sept 21: International Day of Peace
Sept 22-24: Rosh Hashanah
Sept 22: Regular Board Meeting
Sept 24: AMP Online Applications Opens
Sept 24: Rowan's Law Day
Sept 25: Franco-Ontarian Day- Flag Ceremony
Sept 26: Human Resources Professionals Day
Sept 28: Right to Know Day
Sept 28: World Day of the Deaf
Sept 29: Solemnity of Saint Michael
Sept 30: National Truth and Reconciliation Day

Click here and subscribe to our calendar to receive reminders about holidays, P.A. days, events, and recognition days.

Peace and Gratitude

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 18:30:00 GMT

Dear Families,

I hope that you have had a wonderful start to the 2025-2026 school year and have had the opportunity to connect with both new and familiar faces among students, staff and families. It has certainly been a blessing to witness the vibrant spirit of faith and academic excellence that defines our Durham Catholic learning community.

As we embrace our new spiritual theme: “Blessed are the Peacemakers” (Matthew 5:9), we are called to be instruments of peace - within our families, our schools, and our communities. Peace begins with gratitude, and as we give thanks this season, we are reminded of the words from Colossians 3:15: “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”

Thanksgiving offers a moment to pause and reflect on the many blessings in our lives - especially the gift of family, friends, and the shared journey of education and faith. Whether your traditions include gathering around a table, sharing stories, enjoying the fall colours, or simply spending time together, this season invites us to celebrate our relationships, communities, and the power of gratitude.

This time of year is also an opportunity to acknowledge the complicated history of Thanksgiving. If you would like to learn more about ways to engage in Truth and Reconciliation, resources are available on the Indigenous Education page of our website.

I want to thank each of our families for your continued partnership in nurturing inclusive and inspiring faith-filled learning environments to support student success. Together, we are sowing seeds of peace and gratitude that will grow in the hearts of our students.

May this Thanksgiving be filled with the love and gratitude of Christ.

Yours in peace and faith,

Gerard Winn
Director of Education

DCDSB 2025 Lenten Message

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As we enter the sacred season of Lent, we are reminded of the profound opportunity that this time offers us. Lent is a period where we are called to deepen our faith, strengthen our relationship with God, and prepare our hearts for the joyous celebration of Easter.

Pope Francis has announced that 2025 is a Jubilee Year, which is a spiritual tradition celebrated in the Church every 25 years. Inspired by this significant moment, the DCDSB community is guided by the spiritual theme of Living in Hope during the 2024-2025 school year. Hope is the virtue that leads us to desire the kingdom of heaven and eternal life as our happiness, placing our trust in Christ’s promises and relying not on our own strength, but on the help and the grace of the Holy Spirit. Pope Francis shared that, “hope does not deceive or disappoint because it is grounded in the certainty that nothing and no one may ever separate us from God’s love.” This relationship of faith and trust in God sustains us and calls us into a loving relationship with one another. We encourage all families to embrace this theme by engaging in acts of kindness, prayer, and service. Let us walk together, supporting one another in our spiritual growth and in our commitment to living out the Gospel values.

We are grateful for the dedication and support of our parents/guardians, staff, and parish partners. Together, we can create a caring learning environment where our students can grow in faith, knowledge, and love. With hearts full of hope this Lenten season, let us continue to create meaningful connections with one another.

Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed Lent.

Yours in hope and faith,

Monique Forster Gerard Winn
Chair of the Board Director of Education

Flags lowered to half-mast in honour of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 13:00:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) extend our deepest condolences to the Royal family on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Royal family during this difficult time.

As a community of faith, we will remember Queen Elizabeth II for her extraordinary dedication and commitment to service. Flags at the DCDSB Schools and Board office have been lowered to half-mast in her memory.

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their souls and all the souls of the faithfully departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

~Amen

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

Dwyer Musical Theatre's Product of "Hairspray"

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 17:00:00 GMT

Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School's Musical Theatre Class is presenting a production of "HAIRSPRAY".

TICKETS GO ON SALE at Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School on Wednesday, November 14 from 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. or call (905) 723-5255 ext. 55021 to purchase tickets.

Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School is located at 700 Stevenson Road North, Oshawa.

Adults $10 , Students $8.

See flyer attached for more details.

DCPIC - May 2025 Newsletter

Fri, 23 May 2025 16:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,?

The latest issue of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) newsletter is now available.

This issue of the newsletter includes:

A Message from the Chair;

DCPIC Parent/Guardian Survey;
A recap of Youth and Mental Health Night;

2024-2025 Distinguished Catholic Volunteer Award Recipients; and

Follow DCPIC on Instagram!

As a friendly reminder, the DCPIC is conducting a parent/guardian?survey?that will assist in setting the committee’s direction for the 2025-2026 school year. We welcome input from parents, guardians, and caregivers. The?survey?consists of seven (7) short questions and will take approximately five (5) minutes to complete.

For more information about the committee, please visit?dcpic.ca?or email chair@dcpic.ca.

Yours in Faith,

Christine Santos
Chair, Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee

Mass for the repose of the soul of Father Donald MacLellan C.Ss.R.

Mon, 10 Jun 2019 12:45:00 GMT

Please join the Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic School Secondary School community in the celebration of Mass for the repose of the soul of their former school chaplain: Father Donald MacLellan C.Ss.R.

The mass will take place in the school’s chapel at 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 11, 2019. The celebrant will be Fr. David Percell C.Ss.R. For more information, please contact: Chaplain Kelly Stephen at 905-432-8470 x 54021.

Call for Nominations - DCDSB's Distinguished Catholic Alumni Award 2020

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 20:00:00 GMT

The Distinguished Catholic Alumni Awardrecognizes former students of the Durham Catholic District School Board who have achieved significant success in their chosen pathway. Through their pursuit of personal excellence, they have made a positive contribution to their communities and represent the image of the Catholic learner as outlined in the Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations.

Winners of the Distinguished Catholic Alumni Award 2020will be recognized at the annual Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation Gala, to be held on Thursday, April 30, 2020 at the Ajax Convention Centre. The award may be presented posthumously through a family member, if possible.

To be eligible for this award, the nominee must meet the following criteria:

The nominee is a former student of the Durham Catholic District School Board
The nominee has distinguished herself/himself through service or accomplishments or career
The nominee reflects the characteristics of the Ontario Catholic Graduate Expectations:
- A Discerning Believer Formed in the Catholic Faith Community
- An Effective Communicator
- A Reflective and Creative Thinker
- A Life Long Learner
- A Collaborative Contributor
- A Caring Family Member
- A Responsible Citizen.

Recipients of the Distinguished Catholic Alumni Awardwill be recommended to the Senior Administrative Council of the Durham Catholic District School Board, chaired by the Director of Education, for consideration. Nominations are due February 28, 2020 for consideration for the 2020 award ceremony.

To submit a nominee for consideration, please complete the online nomination form (on or before February 28, 2020) available at https://www.dcdsb.ca/en/our-board/distinguished-catholic-alumni-award.aspx

Elementary Summer School Programs Registration Now Open

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 14:15:00 GMT

Registration is open for the following summer school programs:

Reach Ahead High School Credit - Online (July 4, 2022 – July 27, 2022)

Registration is open for Grade 8 students who wish to register for Grade 9 summer school credit through Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre:

Introduction to Business (BBI 1O)
Exploring Family Studies – Transition to High School (HIF 1O)
Expressions of First Nations, Metis and Inuit Cultures (NAC 1O)
U.P. (Ultimate Potential) Math (GLS1O)

Interested parents and students are asked to complete the online form to register:

Grade 8 Reach Ahead High School Credit Registration

Registrations are due by June 24, 2022.

Literacy and Math including French Immersion for Grades 6, 7, & 8

Session 1: July 4, 2022 – July 15, 2022

Session 2: July 18, 2022 – July 29, 2022

Interested parents and students are asked to complete the online form to register:

Literacy and Math including French Immersion Registration

Registrations are due by June 24, 2022.

Literacy and Numeracy Camps for Grades 6, 7 & 8 – Registration opening Monday, March 14, 2022

Coding and Robotics Camp
Cooking Camp
Digital Literacy Camp
Exploring the Trades Camp
Hairstyling & Aesthetics Camp
Recreation and Fitness Camp

Elementary International Languages Program (July 4, 2022 – July 29, 2022)

We offer free summer International and Heritage Language classes for elementary students in Grade 1 to Grade 8.

Interested parents and students are asked to complete the online form here:

Elementary International Languages Program

French for Kindergarten to Grade 3 (July 4, 2022 – July 29, 2022)

Students who are currently enrolled in Kindergarten to Grade 3 are invited to register for French language classes during the summer. The cost for this program is $200.

Interested parents and students are asked to visit our webpage for complete registration and payment details:

French Kindergarten to Grade 3

Head Start Program(August 22, 2022 – August 25, 2022)

Interested parents and students are asked to complete the online form here:

Head Start Program Registration

Registrations are due by June 24, 2022.

If a student registers for a Reach Ahead High School Credit (July 4, 2022 – July 27, 2022), they are not able to register for a non-credit program because the weeks will overlap in July.

If you have any questions about the non-credit literacy/numeracy programs, please contact cont.ed@dcdsb.ca or call (905) 683-7713.

For questions about the Reach Ahead High School Credit Program or Head Start, please contact credit.reg@dcdsb.ca or call (905) 438-0570.

All summer school information can be found on the website www.con-ed.ca.

Thank you for your interest in summer school. We look forward to supporting your child’s education.

2024-2025 Spiritual Theme Design Day

Thu, 02 May 2024 16:30:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is excited to invite Grade 7 through 12 students across the school board to help design the poster for the 2024-2025 Spiritual Theme, ‘Living in Hope’. Each year, the spiritual theme encourages us to make real, meaningful, and faith-filled connections every day. The theme for the 2024-2025 year is inspired by the Jubilee Year that has been announced by Pope Francis. In a letter written by Pope Francis, he writes, “We must fan the flame of hope that has been given us, and help everyone to gain new strength and certainty by looking to the future with an open spirit, a trusting heart and far-sighted vision.”

Students who complete the online interest form using their student email addresses have the chance to participate in an exciting experiential learning opportunity on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, where they will collaborate with students from across the DCDSB and work with our Faith and Communications departments to create the poster design for next year's spiritual theme. The deadline to fill out the interest form is Wednesday, May 8, 2024 at 8:00 p.m.

Click here to access the online interest form.

2020/2021 Distinguished Catholic Volunteer Awards

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 18:00:00 GMT

Congratulations to our 2020/2021 Distinguished Catholic Volunteer Award recipients. We love our volunteers! Thank you to the dedicated volunteers who contribute to the success of our schools and committees each and every day.

We are honoured to present this year's recipients below.

Distinguished Catholic Volunteers for Ajax Schools:

Brad Levantis, Archbishop Denis O'Connor Catholic High School;
Heather McFadden, Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School;
Alban Cardoza, St. André Bessette Catholic School;
Paula Papagni, St. Bernadette Catholic School;
Georgina Dubeau, St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School;
Damien Julien, St. Francis de Sales Catholic School;
Nicole Bellomo, St. James Catholic School;
Kristina Andrada-Wizzard, St. Josephine Bakhita Catholic School;
Philip Neelamegan, St. Jude Catholic School;
Karen Callery, St. Patrick Catholic School;
Stephanie Daga, St. Teresa of Calcutta Catholic School.

Distinguished Catholic Volunteers for Northern Schools (Beaverton, Port Perry, Uxbridge):

Shelly Hopper, Good Shepherd Catholic School;
Coline Theordoru, Family Catholic School;
Julie Morrison, St. Joseph Catholic School Uxbridge.

Distinguished Catholic Volunteers for Oshawa Schools:

Carrie Bon, Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School;
Lesley McAvoy, Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School;
Cristal Surla, Monsignor Philip Coffey Catholic School;
Amanda Brake, St. Anne Catholic School;
Marcia DeSouza, St. Christopher Catholic School;
Anne Fernando, St. Hedwig Catholic School;
Jennifer Falzon, St. John XXIII Catholic School;
Debora Ribeiro Picarte, St. John Bosco Catholic School;
Nicole Zara, St. Joseph Catholic School;
Amanda Hazarie, St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School;
Erin Avery, St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School.
Michelle Acorn, Sir Albert Love Catholic School.

Distinguished Catholic Volunteers for Pickering Schools:

Keisha Petrolo, St. Mary Catholic Secondary School;
Aliki Zacharia, Father Fenelon Catholic School;
Suzanne Charles Watson, St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School;
Lisa Werner, St. Isaac Jogues Catholic School;
Michelle Mendonca, St. Monica Catholic School;
Sylvia D’Souza, St. Wilfrid Catholic School.

Distinguished Catholic Volunteers for Whitby Schools:

Vanessa Hopman, All Saints Catholic Secondary School;
Vernon Hiller, Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School;
Shantel Ielasi, St. Bernard Catholic School;
Christina Melick, St. Bridget Catholic School.

More information about the Distinguished Catholic Volunteer Awards can be found on the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee website.

DCPIC Winter/Spring 2024 Newsletter

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 16:45:00 GMT

The Winter/Spring 2024 editionof the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) newsletteris now available!

This issue includes:

Message from the DCPIC Chair
DCPIC Events:

Parent Resource Conference

Faith Formation:

Lenten Season
Sacramental Celebrations

Information for Sharing:

Reminder: Kindergarten Registration
Register Now for the Equity Invitational Learning Series - Session 3

Meeting Dates

Yours in faith,

DCPIC

5th Annual Gowns for Girls

Mon, 19 Mar 2018 16:00:00 GMT

This event is open to all Durham Region Schools for graduates in Grade 8 and in Grade 12. The event provides free prom dresses and offers a selection of dress shoes, purses, jewellery and accessories.

Donations

Durham Regional Police Services are now accepting donations of dresses, shoes, accessories and salon hair & hair and make up donations. Donations can be dropped off to any of the five (5) DRPS police stations across the Region. This program continues to be a success because of all of your kind and generous donations.

For more information on the event, contact gownsforgirls@drps.ca

Now Available - Spring Issue of DCPIC Newsletter

Wed, 13 Jun 2018 13:30:00 GMT

The latest issue of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee's (DCPIC) newsletter is available below. This issue features articles on:

A Message from the Chair of DCPIC;
Parent Tips to Support Math Learning Fun at Home;
Avoid the Summer Brain Drain - Register for a Summer Course or Camp; and
DCPIC - Call for Nominations.

For more information visit dcpic.ca. Have a safe and restful summer!

Hope and Harvest Message

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 13:00:00 GMT

Dear Families,

I hope that the first month of the 2024-2025 school year has been filled with joy, community, faith and learning. I have had the opportunity to visit our schools and meet with students, staff, families, and parish and community partners, and am filled with gratitude for our Durham Catholic learning community.

We continue to celebrate this year’s spiritual theme, Living in Hope, as we place our trust in Christ’s promises, relying not on our own strength, but on the help and grace of the Holy Spirit. This fall, as I reflect on hope, harvest, and gratitude, I have been reminded about how, in life – whether it be personally, professionally, or in our learning - we can get caught up in daily productivity and expect immediate success and achievement. However, both in life, and in our schools and students’ learning, most of our time is spent “sowing the seeds” and planting the foundation, so that in time we can grow to achieve our personal versions of success, and to truly be who God has called us to be.

Throughout October, many celebrate the harvest with friends and families by honouring and participating in different traditions or ceremonies. The Thanksgiving holiday may look different for each of us. For many families it is a time of giving thanks and gathering. It may also be an opportunity to learn more about its complicated history. In keeping with our board’s commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, I invite you to explore resources available on the Indigenous Education page of our website.

I want to thank you for your continued partnership and engagement in your child’s education. By working together, we can ensure all students feel safe, welcome and supported in their learning.

In this season of gratitude, I am thankful for the gifts of hope and community as we listen, learn and live in faith together at the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Yours in hope and faith,

Gerard Winn
Director of Education

Regional Arts & Media Program Virtual Open House

Tue, 03 Nov 2020 13:45:00 GMT

The Regional Arts & Media Program live virtual Open House is this Wednesday, November 4, 2020 at 7:00PM. We would like to invite you to learn more about the program, the application/audition process, meet our teachers, and more!

Located at All Saints Catholic Secondary School in Whitby, the Regional Arts & Media Program will serve students from Grade 7 to 12 and offers additional specialized instruction in the arts or media program of their choice. Any student who will be entering Grade 7 or Grade 9 in September 2021 is invited to apply. No previous experience is necessary!

The live Open House Zoom meeting can be accessed on Wednesday, November 4, 2020 at 7:00PM at: https://zoom.us/j/92780517164?pwd=dk1jKzhneVcvN0FCMkxzaVFONUZpZz09 (Meeting ID: 927 8051 7164. Passcode: Titans21). If you are unable to attend the meeting, we will be posting the PowerPoint presentation to our website.

Additional sessions with our staff and arts teachers have been scheduled to follow the Open House. These following sessions will start at 7:30PM and will provide an opportunity for individuals to ask program-specific questions to our teaching staff:

Dance: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85881918715?pwd=Wlg0TVFDdVZlN1lrNWFwV2p1d29JQT09 (Meeting ID: 858 8191 8715. Passcode: AMPDANCE)
Instrumental Music: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89926130704?pwd=MVVxNEM2MzRlSGtpZ2Z2V21aaFhEUT09 (Meeting ID: 899 2613 0704. Passcode: 7SRr6i)
Media Arts: https://zoom.us/j/91283108596?pwd=aHVaQjlETVZrQ2RISjN4cE5wbDRSZz09 (Meeting ID: 912 8310 8596. Passcode: 8v38TD)
Performing Arts - Drama & Vocal Music: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85460497471?pwd=aUt2RGFsdHJQa294R0Jrb2s0VGQyUT09 (Meeting ID: 854 6049 7471. Passcode: 0caQXp)
Visual Arts: https://us04web.zoom.us/j/72438221338?pwd=aUtwd1NGdGYvWUtnSXA0bWd1Y2g5UT09
General Application/Audition & Transportation Questions: https://zoom.us/j/98491645160?pwd=MmxVODNRbUFHa3l0RFJZdDFSRkcvdz09 (Meeting ID: 984 9164 5160. Passcode: AMP)

We invite your child to learn, create and grow with us!

Autumn Harvest

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 13:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

With its connection to the summer harvest, autumn is a season in which we often reflect on our many blessings. During the coming long weekend, families may have a tradition of gathering to share food and company and to give thanks.

As a Catholic school board, we are grateful for the strong foundations of learning, friendship, creativity, and growth that have been established during these first five weeks of the school year, while sharing our excitement and hopes for what is yet to come.

Our thanks is extended to staff, families, and community partners, whose commitments to Catholic education and ongoing collaboration are the cornerstone of our system which supports the faith formation and learning of all of our students.

This year’s spiritual theme, Speaking With the Heart, encourages us to communicate “according to God’s style, nurtured by closeness, compassion and tenderness.” It is our hope that by doing so, we will build communities where knowledge and perspectives can be shared while communicating from a place of truth, hope, kindness, and respect for all.

In keeping with our board’s commitment to Truth and Reconciliation we are also encouraged to reflect on the true history of Indigenous Peoples who have inhabited Turtle Island for time immemorial. There are many informative resources available on the Indigenous Education page of our Board website that we encourage you to explore.

As we enter the fall, we especially celebrate our students who inspire us with their acts of kindness, service to others and hopes for the future. Their enthusiasm for learning and devotion to the teachings of Christ are a true inspiration!

In this season of gratitude, we are thankful for the gift of faith that unites, nurtures, and guides us on our spiritual journey. We pray for God's blessings upon each and every one of you and your families.

Yours in Faith,

Monique Forster Tracy Barill
Chair of the Board Director of Education

November's issue of Celebrating Student Success

Wed, 01 Nov 2017 13:00:00 GMT

The latest issue of DCDSB's Celebrating Student Success newsletter is now available.

This issue features articles on:

Year of Service – Students at Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School are Called to Serve;
Durham Youth Drug Awareness Committee (DYDAC) hosts 3^rd Annual Student Conference;
Centre for Success Students discover Enniskillen’s Outdoor Education Centre;
Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School Students take a SHSM trip to the Madawaska Valley;
Careers in Construction Day;
Industry Oshawa Tour for Students;
Exchange Programs – Opening Doors to Opportunities Around the World;
100% of Durham Catholic Schools are Certificated EcoSchools;
My Individual Pathways Plan;
St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School participates in Altona Forest Project; and
Upcoming Events.

Stay connected and sign up to receive the newsletter directly in your inbox.

Ministry of Education Letter to Families

Mon, 20 Dec 2021 15:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We are sending the following letter on behalf of the Ministry of Education. Please click here to view the letter which contains information on the voluntary at-home rapid antigen testing.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Register for Grade 1 French Immersion

Tue, 10 Jan 2017 14:00:00 GMT

We welcome all students into our French Immersion program at schools across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

You are invited to enrol your child through our online registration process from December 12, 2016 to January 20, 2017 . Students must be entering Grade 1 in September 2017 to register.

For more information about the French Immersion Program, click here.

DCDSB News - April 2025

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 17:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians:

The April 2025 issue of the DCDSB News is now available! This newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what’s happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

Faith
- St. Bernard Catholic School Celebrates Jubilee 2025
- St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic School Creates Jubilee Year Display
- Durham Catholic Students Attend the Youth Ordinandi Lunch
- 2025 Dominican Friars Youth Interfaith Video Contest
Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation
- April 14 is the Last Day to Purchase Tickets to the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation Gala
- Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation: 2024 Annual Report
DCDSB Updates
- Equity Invitational Learning Series
- Learning Disabilities Association of Durham Region - Power to Achieve Student Scholarship Award
- Submit Nominations for May Beacons of Hope
Parent, Guardian and Caregiver Resources
- Family Literacy Night
- Math Made Accessible: Tools for Families of Students with Special Education Needs
Indigenous Education
- National Indigenous Languages Day at Durham Catholic District School Board
- Second Life Stage of Brook Trout Hatcheries
- TRACKS Summer Job Opportunities for Indigenous High School Students
DCDSB Students
- CABS March Break Sports Camp
- 2025 Student Voice Forum
- St. Mary Catholic Secondary School Makes History with OFSAA Wrestling Championship Win
- Numeracy Cooking March Break Camp
- Rock Your Socks at St. Luke the Evangelist!
Mental Health and Well-Being
- By Your Side - Free Online Resource for Parents and Caregivers
Continuing Education
- Summer School Registration is Open for Elementary and Secondary Students!
Upcoming Events

Sincerely,

Durham Catholic District School Board

DCDSB Celebrates Catholic Education Week and Mental Health Week from May 1-5, 2023

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 14:45:00 GMT

This year, the Ontario Catholic School Trustees’ Association (OCSTA) has selected We are Many, We are One as the provincial theme for Catholic Education Week.

“In our DCDSB schools, we celebrate the diversity and uniqueness of each person in our Catholic learning community,” said Tracy Barill, DCDSB Director of Education. “Guided by our board’s spiritual theme for this year, Listening with the Ear of the Heart, we have been focusing on authentically listening to those around us to build better understanding of the experiences of all people, and to consider what steps the Holy Spirit is inviting us to take as we walk the path forward together.”

There are many connections between Catholic Education Week and the Mental Health Week theme, My Story, which was selected by the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA). CMHA states “Collectively and individually, we have multiple layers and stories that make us who we are and while each year 1 in 5 Canadians experience a mental illness or mental health issue, 5 in 5 of us – that’s all people – have mental health.”

To recognize the significance of this week, DCDSB is launching an interactive webpage for students and families. This webpage includes mental health and well-being activities, suggested reading lists and family faith-centered activities.

DCDSB will be celebrating these important weeks with special activities at all grade levels, which will include prayer celebrations and service activities. Students, families and community members are invited to visit our Catholic Education Week and Mental Health Week webpage for resources, book lists, and more.

DCDSB will be recognizing Catholic Education Week and Mental Health Week through the following initiatives and events:

Monday May 1, 2023:
- System-Wide Mass and Distinguished Catholic Educator and Leader Award Ceremony. This year, recipients of the Distinguished Catholic Educator and Leader Awards will be honoured following the System-Wide Mass at St. Bernadette Parish (21 Bayly St., E., Ajax) beginning at 4:30 p.m.

Tuesday May 2, 2023:
- Suicide Prevention and Life Promotion Literacy for School Staff training is being offered to educators. This is a 3-hour workshop developed by School Mental Health Ontario that is intended to develop an understanding of suicide prevention at school and the role that all school staff play in keeping students safe.
- Parent, Guardian and Caregiver Mental Health and Well-Being Virtual Presentation: Understanding Mood and Anxiety Difficulties Presented by Ontario Shores. The presentation will take place from 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. on Zoom. Please click here to join the Zoom meeting.

Wednesday May 3, 2023:
- The student trustee leadership team at the Ontario Catholic School Trustees’ Association is hosting a virtual Ontario Catholic Student Youth Day (OCSYD).
- His Grace Francis Leo, Archbishop of Toronto, will join thousands of students across the province in the celebration of a special Catholic Education Week Mass that will be live streamed at 1:30 p.m. If you would like to watch the Mass, please visit https://www.stmichaelscathedral.com/live/.

Thursday May 4, 2023:
- School Mental Health Ontario is offering a webinar for secondary educators: Mental health lesson plans to support student learning -MH LIT: Student Mental Health in Action. During this session, educators will review this series of lessons for students in Grades 9-12 on basic mental health knowledge and help-seeking skills, consider how to bring the lessons to their students, hear from those who have begun doing so, and start the planning process in conversation with their peers.

Friday May 5, 2023:
- Students and staff are encouraged to wear green to raise awareness for Mental Health Week.
- May 5 is the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls & 2-Spirit People. Students have been engaging in learning about how systemic barriers failed to prevent and address cases of missing and murdered Indigenous women, children and 2SLGBTQ+ individuals. We encourage our community to learn more at Reclaiming Power and Place: The Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. On May 5, secondary students will be attending the Gathering to Honour Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples hosted by Carea Community Health Centre. Staff will be attending the Gathering and selling sweaters to donate all the proceeds back to the Carea Community Health Centre to support the ongoing crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples in Canada.

To learn more about the DCDSB’s related programs, supports and resources, please see the following webpages:

2021 Transportation Information

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 15:45:00 GMT

School bus transportation information for the 2021/2022 school year is now available. If your child requires transportation, or if you are inquiring about transportation, please visit the Durham Student Transportation Services website at dsts.on.ca for more information.

DSTS Parent Portal Unavailable - for Bus Cancellations and Delays

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 18:00:00 GMT

Due to a network outage, Durham Student Transportation Services' (DSTS) Parent Portal that provides communication regarding bus cancellations and delays is currently unavailable. Parents and guardians are asked to visit dsts.on.ca for transportation updates. Service is expected to be restored by tomorrow morning (September16, 2022).

DSTS’s website and phone lines are available. For more information, visit dsts.on.ca.

Christmas Message from DCDSB's Chair of the Board and Director of Education

Fri, 23 Dec 2022 18:30:00 GMT

December 23, 2022

Dear Parents and Guardians,

During this Advent season, our students, school communities and staff have been witnesses of our faith through their acts of charity, raising money and donating goods to support those in need. Over the last four weeks, we have taken time to prepare our homes and hearts for the coming of Jesus. Through our actions and example, we have taught our children about the hope, love, joy, and peace found in Advent.

On behalf of the Board of Trustees and Senior Administrative Team, we wish you all a very Merry Christmas. May the birth of our Saviour bring light to you and your families during these celebrations. To our community partners of different faith traditions or beliefs, may this holiday season be one of joy and love as you reconnect with family and friends.

Looking to the New Year, may we continue to work in cooperation and collaboration as we launch the board’s Inspire 2026 Strategic Plan.

A gentle reminder, with cold and flu season upon us, the Ontario Chief Medical Officer of Health is strongly recommending that masks be worn in all indoor public places, including schools, childcare centres, and buses. You are encouraged to continue to use the COVID-19 school screening tool and screen for symptoms of illness this holiday season.

As you may be aware, Lakeridge Health’s Emergency Departments are reporting high wait times due to increased demand and patient visits. Please read this important message from Lakeridge Health, which provides information on where and how to obtain medical attention, if required.

When we return to school on January 9, 2023, you are encouraged to complete the COVID-19 school screening tool and please keep your child(ren) home if ill. Indoor masking, hand hygiene and screening will still be strongly recommended as we return to school to support the health and safety of students and staff.

May God Bless us all and may peace reign throughout the world.

Yours in Faith,

Monique Forster Tracy Barill
Chair of the Board Director of Education

Registration Now Open for International Languages Classes

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 14:00:00 GMT

The International Languages programs offered through Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre are designed for students from Year 1 Kindergarten/Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12. The programs provide students with the opportunity to speak, listen, write and read in an international language and to learn about the culture and heritage associated with the language.

Elementary International Languages Classes
This program is offered on Saturday mornings from 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and runs from September 23, 2023 – June 15, 2024. Students must be in Year 1 Kindergarten/Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8 to participate in this program. For more information and to register, please visit our website.

New this year: Greek and Ukrainian classes will be offered at 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday evenings at All Saints Catholic Secondary School. These classes will run from September 27, 2023 - June 19, 2024.

French Classes for Junior Kindergarten – Grade 3 Students
Students who are currently enrolled in Year 1 Kindergarten/Junior Kindergarten to Grade 3 are invited to register for French language classes. These classes are offered at either St. Mary Catholic Secondary School in Pickering or All Saints Catholic Secondary School in Whitby. The classes are offered on Saturday mornings from 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and runs from September 23, 2023 – June 15, 2024. For more information and to register, please visit our website.

Secondary International Languages Classes
DCDSB secondary students who are interested in taking an international language credit course are invited to register for the International Languages program offered through Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre. The courses will start on September 23, 2023 and run until June 15, 2024. For more information and to register, please visit our website.

Registration Now Open for Elementary International Languages Classes

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 14:45:00 GMT

UPDATED - Elementary International Languages Classes
In-person registration for the Elementary International Languages Classes will be held on Saturday, September 17, 2022. For more information and to register, please visit our Continuing Education website. This program will run on Saturday mornings from 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. from September 24, 2022 – June 10, 2023. Students must be in Year 1 Kindergarten/Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8 to participate in this program.

French Classes for Junior Kindergarten – Grade 3 Students
Students who are currently enrolled in Year 1 Kindergarten/Junior Kindergarten to Grade 3 are invited to register for French language classes. These classes are offered at either St. Mary Catholic Secondary School in Pickering or All Saints Catholic Secondary School in Whitby. The classes are offered on Saturday mornings from 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and runs from September 17, 2022 – June 10, 2023. For more information and to register, please visit our Continuing Education website.

Ministry of Education: Year-End Messages to Families and Students

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 15:15:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Please find the following messages to families and students in Ontario from the Ministry of Education:

Year-End Letter from the Honourable Paul Calandra, Minister of Education
Graduation Letter to the Class of 2025 and video message from the Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario

Sincerely,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Upcoming PA Day - April 8, 2024

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 19:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians, and Caregivers:

Monday, April 8, 2024, is a Professional Activity (PA) Day for all Durham Catholic District School Board elementary and secondary students.

As you may be aware, a total solar eclipse is taking place on Monday, April 8, 2024. In Durham Region, the eclipse is expected to begin at 2:04 p.m. and end at 4:31 p.m. The Government of Canada’s website, indicates that there are significant risks associated with viewing a solar eclipse. Directly looking at the sun, even during an eclipse, without appropriate protection can lead to severe eye damage or loss of eyesight.

To support families, we have compiled educational activities and resources that you may wish to use at home to safely engage your child in learning about the eclipse on April 8:

Where to See the Eclipse - An interactive and detailed map showing where the path of totality will be and how long the eclipse will last.
How to View the Total Eclipse Safely - Advice from NASA on essential precautions for eye safety during an eclipse.
How to Make a Box Pinhole Projector - Using a cereal box, some aluminium foil and paper, this website includes instructions on how you can make a box pinhole projector to view the eclipse safely.
Types of Solar Eclipses - The eclipse on April 8 will be a total solar eclipse. This NASA resource explains the different types of solar eclipses.
Eclipse Chalk Art - Learn how to create a chalk drawing of the eclipse.

The agenda of staff professional development scheduled for the PA Day on April 8 has been posted to our website. Please note that Friday, April 19 (which had previously been a scheduled PA Day) will be a regular school day for all DCDSB elementary and secondary schools.

We remain committed to ensuring the health and safety of our students. We appreciate your continued partnership to support our Durham Catholic learning community.

Sincerely,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Lenten Message from the Chair of the Board and Director of Education

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 13:30:00 GMT

Today we embark on the Liturgical season of Lent marked by the distribution of ashes to remind us of the Gospel and our call to turn away from sin. Lent is a period of 40 days of repentance and preparation leading up to the most holy time of year, culminating in the resurrection of Jesus Christ at Easter.

During Lent, we are called upon to pray, fast, reflect and give to others. We may consider giving up something that takes us away from God, adding daily prayer or reflection to deepen our faith, or helping others, to bring us closer to Jesus the servant. We hope that you will find time during this Lenten season to renew your relationship with God.

In his Message for Lent 2023, Pope Francis highlights the relationship between the Lenten journey and the synodal journey, which are both rooted in tradition and open to newness. Pope Francis says, “We need to listen to Jesus…Lent is a time of grace to the extent that we listen to him as he speaks to us.”

Pope Francis also encourages us to continue to listen to those around us, by saying, “In addition to the Scriptures, the Lord speaks to us through our brothers and sisters, especially in the faces and the stories of those who are in need.”

Pope Francis’ messaging connects to the Durham Catholic District School Board’s 2022-2023 spiritual theme, Listening with the Ear of the Heart. We encourage you to continue to reflect on to whom we listen, to what we listen, and to how we listen during this holy Lenten season.

The season of Lent provides us an opportunity for quiet growth and learning which can help us to nurture our faith and live a more Christ-filled life. As a Catholic learning community, we welcome all students, staff, and families to embrace the next 40 days with an open heart, mind, and spirit as we take this opportunity to strengthen our connection to our faith, through our values and our actions, to make the world a better place.

We wish you a blessed Lenten season filled with the opportunity to strengthen your personal connection with Christ.

Yours in Faith,

Monique Forster Tracy Barill
Chair of the Board Director of Education

Celebrating the Walk of Faith at St. Joseph Catholic School in Uxbridge

Mon, 04 Apr 2016 13:30:00 GMT

The students of St. Joseph Catholic School in Uxbridge celebrated the Walk of Faith on April 1, 2016. The cross has almost completed it's journey across Durham Region as it spends time in each of our Catholic Schools. The students carried the cross through downtown Uxbridge from the school to Sacred Heart Parish. Father Joseph blessed the cross on the front steps of the church. The students walked the cross back through town to school where they were met by Deacon Dominic.

Father Joseph and Deacon Dominic celebrated a beautiful mass in the school gym with all the students from kindergarten to grade 8. Deacon Dominic delivered a wonderful homily about The Resurrection. He is very good at explaining concepts in student friendly language. The community so appreciates the support of Father Joseph and Deacon Dominic. It was truly a very special and uplifting experience for the students. We are so proud of the Christian Leadership the students displayed.

Important School Update

Mon, 23 May 2022 23:00:00 GMT

May 23, 2022

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Following the severe storms that passed through the Durham Region on Saturday, we have been monitoring power outages and have been communicating with regional authorities with regards to the extent of the damages across the system.

We understand that some households may continue to be without power, internet and/or cell service and we ask that you share this information as best you can with family and friends.

All schools with power, will resume classes as scheduled tomorrow, Tuesday, May 24, 2022.

At this time, we believe that all our schools have had their power restored with the exception of:

St. Marguerite D’Youville Catholic School, Whitby;
St. Francis de Sales Catholic School, Ajax; and
St. Leo Catholic School, Brooklin.

We will provide a further and final update to these three schools after 8:00 p.m. this evening.

PLEASE NOTE:

Transportation - Buses will be running, however, all parents/guardians are asked to monitor DSTS for system delays and or cancellations.

Absences – a reminder to all parents and guardians to please advise the school if your child(ren) will be absent. If you are without internet, please call the school and leave a message if possible.

We pray for everyone who has been impacted by the storms and give thanks for all the helpers who have been working around the clock to support power restoration and clean up throughout the region.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

DCDSB 2025-2026 School Year Calendar Consultation

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 19:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) invites parents, guardians and caregivers to provide their input on the 2025-2026 school year calendar. If you would like to submit your preference and/or provide comments on the draft calendars, we invite you to do so by completing a brief survey.

You can view the Draft 2025-2026 Elementary Calendar and Draft 2025-2026 Secondary Calendar online.

Highlights include:

The first day of school for students is September 2, 2025.
The proposed winter break is from December 22, 2025 - January 2, 2026. The last day of classes will be December 19, 2025. and students will return to class on January 5, 2026.
The proposed March Break is March 13 - March 20, 2026.

Please click here to complete the 2025-2026 school year survey.

The survey will close at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, January 31, 2025.

We thank you in advance for your input. Your comments will be reviewed and considered in making final recommendations for Board and Ministry of Education approval.

We will share the finalized 2025-2026 school year calendars with families once they have been approved by the Board of Trustees and Ministry of Education.

Sincerely,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Message to Parents & Guardians from Director of Education

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 00:45:00 GMT

July 30, 2020

Dear Parents and Guardians,

I hope you are enjoying a peaceful summer, along with some fun activities with family during these warmer months.

I wanted to connect with you about the most recent update on the province’s return to learning plan for September. Today the Minister of Education announced that in September 2020, Ontario school boards will open their doors to students.

This means that students can return to in-class learning with enhanced protocols and routines in place that will support the health, safety and well-being of all members of our Catholic learning community.

While we continue to work through the details in consultation with public health officials and recommendations from Sick Kids Hospital’s Guidance for School Reopening, here are some of the things that students and staff can expect to see at our schools as of Tuesday, September 8, 2020.

Elementary schools will be open to students for regular instruction five days a week as per the established school calendar.
The secondary school model will be based on a quadmester system (two courses per timetable) with 15 students per class attending on alternate days.
In partnership with families, schools will be working alongside the board’s Student Services Department and Regulated Health Professionals to plan for a safe return to school and the provision of safe and appropriate support for students with special education needs in both elementary and secondary. More information will be forthcoming.

For elementary and secondary schools:

Self-assessments are to be performed at home for COVID-related symptoms,
Students or staff members who are exhibiting symptoms will be expected to stay home.
Hand hygiene and physical distancing will be emphasized and age appropriate signage will be placed throughout the school as reminders.
Hand sanitizer and cleaning supplies will be placed throughout the school.
Enhanced cleaning protocols will be implemented in schools.
Access to school facilities will be limited to students and staff only.
Non-medical masks will be mandatory for staff and for students from Grades 4-12.
Public health nurses will be hired regionally to provide training for school staff and additional support as needed.

We recognize that some families will opt to keep their children at home and continue with remote online learning when schools open. To determine class placements and timetable scheduling, we will begin gathering that information from parents and guardians next week. You will receive an e-mail that will require a response by a specified date in order to ensure your child’s enrolment.

In addition, parents of students who are eligible for busing through Durham Student Transportation Services (DSTS) will be asked to complete a separate online survey to assist with bus planning for the fall.

It is our goal at the Durham Catholic District School Board to implement protocols and precautions that will ensure a positive experience for students and staff as they return to schools. For ongoing updates, please visit www.dcdsb.ca/returntolearning.

Lastly, I extend an invitation to families to participate in two live forums hosted in partnership with the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) and our Student Senate. It is my hope that this will be an opportunity to?respond to questions based on the most current situation as we transition to the 2020-2021 school year.

Return to Learning Online Forum for Parents and Guardians

Question and Answer Session with DCPIC and the Director of Education

Tuesday, August 25, 2020

7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Click here to access this virtual event.

Parents and Guardians can submit questions by August 14, 2020 to: chair@dcpic.ca

Return to Learning Online Forum for Students

Question and Answer Session with the Student Senate and the Director of Education

Thursday, August 27, 2020

4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Click here to access this live virtual event.

Students can submit questions by August 14, 2020 to: studentsenatedcdsb@gmail.com

Please continue to stay safe over the summer, and I look forward to sharing more information in the coming weeks.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

Anti-Black Racism and Black Excellence Advisory Committee Seeking Parent Representatives

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 20:00:00 GMT

The Anti-Black Racism and Black Excellence Advisory Committee is currently seeking five parent representatives - one person representing each municipality (Ajax, Oshawa, Pickering, Whitby and Brock/Scugog/Uxbridge).

Click here to learn more about eligibility and to nominate.

DCDSB News - Summer 2025 Issue

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The Summer 2025 issue of the DCDSB News is now available. This newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what’s happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Please click here to read the newsletter.

Highlights include:

Faith
- Home-School-Parish Symposium 2025
- Together in Spirit: St. Theresa Catholic School's Jubilee Prayer Project
- “That Blessed Upper Room” Pastoral Letter from Cardinal Leo
Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation
- 2024-2025 Year-End Gratitude Message from the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation
- 2025 Student Walk for Hope Raises $12075
- 10th Annual #ForeTheKids Golf Classic
Parent, Guardian, and Caregiver Resources
- Stay Up to Date with Routine Immunizations
DCDSB Updates
- St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School Expansion Receives Additional Funding from the Province of Ontario
- 2025-2026 Budget and Priorities Report
- Ontario Power Generation and UA Canada Join Forces to Ignite Welding Education Success for Students in Durham Region
- 2024-2025 Student Achievement Plan
- DCDSB New Boundaries Established for North Oshawa Schools (Anticipated September 2027)
- DCDSB Announces 2024-2025 Certified Canada EcoSchools
Indigenous Education
- Grade 4 and 8 Students Release Brook Trout
- Exploring the Skilled Trades through the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program and Indigenous Education
DCDSB Students
- St. Mary Catholic Secondary School Receives Environmental School Grant from the City of Pickering
- A Year in Clay: Celebrating Ceramics Students at Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School
- St. Joseph Catholic School Students Shine with Silver Finish in the CBC Music Class Challenge: Spring Edition
Mental Health and Well-Being
- Supports for Summer Mental Health
Continuing Education
- 2025-2026 Program Guide
Upcoming Events
- Local Canada Day Celebrations
- TD Summer Reading Club at Local Public Libraries

We hope our students and families have a blessed and restful summer!

Sincerely,

Durham Catholic District School Board

Letter from Director of Education regarding Recent Events

Tue, 02 Jun 2020 22:00:00 GMT

June 2, 2020

Dear Parents and Guardians,

There have been a number of recent events in Canada and the United States that bring us to pause, reflect and question the human rights of all individuals without discrimination. The death of George Floyd is part of a longer history of anti-black racism that still exists today in the discrimination and trauma that communities of colour continue to endure.

We know that our students and families may be feeling a variety of emotions regarding the current events. As a Catholic community, we hope to draw strength and comfort from each other and support one another in dealing with the aftermath of these events. We also continue to pray for the individuals directly involved and the greater numbers of people who are impacted by discrimination on a daily basis.

We understand that these events are weighing heavily on us, socially, emotionally and psychologically. To this end, we recognize that we have a responsibility to our students and families to support them during this difficult time.

The Durham Catholic District School Board is deeply committed to the principles of equity. We are called to recognize each and every individual as created in the image of God, and the rights of all people to be treated with dignity and respect. As Catholic educators, part of our commitment to equity means fostering a culture that celebrates diversity, advocates for inclusion, and promotes the wellbeing of students and staff.

To continue our journey in equity and inclusive education, our board’s strategic plan highlights equity as one of our core commitments. As we move forward, DCDSB is dedicated to providing ongoing training and professional learning for our staff specifically regarding issues of equity, bias, discrimination and racism as we strive to serve our students with culturally relevant and responsive pedagogy. We are seeking to create authentic opportunities for engagement and meaningful conversation to raise awareness about the dignity and human rights of all people. We will also continue to reflect on our own practices to promote diversity in our staff and ensure that equity is upheld in all areas of our work together.

At this time, if you feel your child has been impacted by the unjust events that have been shared in the media, we ask that you reach out to their classroom educator, program support teacher, guidance counsellor, or principal to discuss additional supports that may be available.

Yours in faith,

Tracy Barill,
Director of Education

“A new commandment I give you, love one another, as I have loved you…” (John 13:34)

Power Restored to All DCDSB Schools - Classes Resume on Tuesday, May 24

Tue, 24 May 2022 00:15:00 GMT

May 23, 2022

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The following is the final update this evening regarding the status of our Durham Catholic schools. We understand that many households are still without power and have limited to no access to internet or cellular service. Please share this information as best as you can with family and friends.

Power has been restored to all DCDSB schools. Classes will resume as scheduled tomorrow, Tuesday, May 24, 2022.

Durham Student Transportation Services (DSTS) buses will be running however; parents and guardians are asked to monitor DSTS for system delays and or cancellations.

Parents and guardians are reminded to please advise the school if your child(ren) will be absent. If you are without internet, please call the school and leave a message if possible.

We continue to pray for everyone who has been impacted by the storms and give thanks for all the helpers who have been working around the clock to support power restoration and clean up throughout the region.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

Food for Clothing Exchange

Mon, 21 Oct 2019 13:00:00 GMT

If you or your family are in need of winter clothing, bring a non-perishable food item to the Food for Clothing Exchange on Saturday, November 23, 2019 from 9 am to 12 noon. This is an opportunity to exhange food for winter clothing.

This event is open to all families in Durham Region. For more information, contact Jim Fergusson at 905-436-0275.

DCPIC Seeks Nominations

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 01:30:00 GMT

Dear DCDSB Families,

On behalf of myself and all the current members of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC), welcome to the 2023-2024 school year!

As students settle into their classes, DCPIC is also getting ready to continue our ongoing collaboration with the board, beginning with hosting elections for available positions on our committee.

About DCPIC

Led by parents, guardians and caregivers, DCPIC is a formal statutory entity of the Durham Catholic District School Board.

With engagement as its priority, the committee provides ongoing support on a system-wide basis and promotes communication and dialogue between:

School Councils
The Board
The Director of Education
The Board of Trustees
Members of the community

In accordance with the Ministry of Education, DCPIC’s mandate is to:

Support, encourage, and enhance meaningful parent engagement at the board level
Improve student achievement and well-being
Provide information and advice to the board on parent engagement
Communicate with and support local Catholic school councils in the Durham Catholic District School Board
Undertake activities to help parents support their children's learning at home and at school

Seeking Committee Members

DCPIC is currently seeking the following members for the 2023-2024 school year:

Eight Parent Members (two-year term)
Three Community Representatives (one-year term)

Eligibility requirements for the Executive and Community Representatives can be found in the DCPIC Bylaws.

Those interested in seeking election must complete the self-nomination form, which is available online until 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 28, 2023. Each eligible applicant will then be invited to speak at the in-person DCPIC meeting at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 5, 2023. Further details will also be sent to each applicant via email.

For more information about DCPIC, including member duties/responsibilities, news, events, and frequently asked questions, please visit the DCPIC webpage.

Thank you for your interest and support.

Yours in Faith,

Rose Lo Presti
Current Chair, Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee

Online Engagements - Ontario First Nation, M�tis and Inuit Education Policy Framework

Thu, 25 May 2017 13:00:00 GMT

The Ministry of Education has engaged a team of researchers who will engage with students, parents/guardians and families, teaching and nonteaching staff, Indigenous communities, organizations and partners, and school boards to gather feedback and input to inform the development of the Third Progress Report on the implementation of the First Nations, Métis and Inuit Education Policy Framework.

As part of the engagement and data collection process, we are pleased to announce the release of the online survey. This survey is intended to capture the successes and help to identify promising practices and opportunities to provide further support to enhance the achievement and well-being of Indigenous students.

The English and French versions of the students, parents/guardians and families, teaching and nonteaching staff, Indigenous communities, organizations and partners, and school boards surveys are available by clicking the following links:

ThirdProgressReport (English)
TroisièmeRapportD’Étape (French)

Here are some key things to keep in mind about the survey:

Participation in this survey is voluntary.
This survey is confidential. That means that all answers will be combined anonymously (without any identifying information) with the answers received from other participants. No one who sees the answers will be able to link them to any individual person.
We will respect the data sharing protocols of the school boards, the Ministry of Education, and First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities and organizations.
The information received will be combined anonymously in a report that will be used to inform the development of the Third Progress Report.
Anyone can stop doing this survey at any time without any repercussions.

Students, parents/guardians and families, teaching and nonteaching staff, Indigenous communities, organizations and partners are welcome to complete the survey between May 15 to June 23, 2017.

In addition to the online survey, the Ministry is pleased to be offering a series online focus groups for students, parents/guardians and families, teaching and nonteaching staff, and Indigenous, communities, organizations and partners to share their perspectives. The dates for the focus groups are as follows:

Students

Parents/Guardians

Teaching/Non-Teaching Staff

Indigenous Organizations & Partners

Tuesday, May 23

8-9pm EST (English)

Monday, June 12 7:30-8:30 pm EST

(English)

Thursday, May 25 6-7pm EST

(English)

Thursday, June 1 2-3pm EST

(English)

Thursday, June 1 7-8pm EST

(English)

Thursday, June 15 7-8 pm EST

(English)

Thursday, June 1

7-8pm EST

(English)

Friday, June 2

2-3pm EST

(English)

Monday, June 19 7-8pm EST

(English)

Wednesday, June 21

7-8pm EST

(English)

Thursday, June 15 7-8 pm EST

(English)

Thursday, June 8 2-3pm EST

(English)

Monday, June 19 7-8pm EST

(French)

Monday, June 26

7-8pm EST

(French)

Tuesday, June 20

7-8 pm EST

(French)

Tuesday, June 27

7-8 pm EST

(French)

All students, parents/guardians and families, teaching and nonteaching staff, and Indigenous organizations and partners are invited to participate in these online focus groups. To participate, please RSVP to thirdprogressreport@gmail.com indicating which session you would like to attend. Please note that while we will make efforts to accommodate everyone spaces are limited to 10-12 people per session on a first come, first served basis. Therefore, participants are encouraged to respond with their preferences at their earliest convenience.

The Indigenous Education Office of the Ministry of Education would be pleased to respond to any questions you may have regarding the process of engagement and data collection to inform the development of the Third Progress Report. Please send any questions directly to Jennifer Feasby, Manager Education Policy and Programs Unit (Jennifer.Feasby@ontario.ca).

Thank you in advance for your support of this important work.

Sincerely,

The Third Progress Report Consulting Team,
Steven Vanloffeld, Andrew Parkin, Amanda Parriag and Ashley Sisco

Parent Engagement Event - Black Mental Health Day on March 7, 2022

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 21:00:00 GMT

March 7, 2022 marks the third annual Black Mental Health Day, recognized by communities across Ontario. On Black Mental Health Day, we are called to recognize the ongoing impact on mental health that results from experiences of anti-Black racism. It is also a day to raise awareness of the specific mental health needs of Black communities across Ontario.

This year, DCDSB invites families to attend a Zoom live event on March 7, 2022 at 6:30 p.m. with Natalie Haynes, Registered Psychotherapist, Training Consultant and Speaker. Natalie will be offering I Think, Therefore I Am.

Those interested in participating are invited to register here for this event.

After registration, you will receive a confirmation e-mail with information about joining the session.

Natalie Haynes

Natalie began her own search for deeper meaning and understanding over 20 years ago. Due to the messages she heard growing up, Natalie had difficulty being in her own skin, resulting in anxiety and a tumultuous relationship with herself. Natalie became a therapist because she was a client. With curiosity and courage, she developed a new relationship with herself and a passion for psychotherapy.

Natalie brings this passion to her work and is committed to being a guide for others who want clarity, awareness and to know what gets in the way of accepting who they are. Natalie’s intention is to help people find permission and the courage to be who they already are.

For more information about Black Mental Health Day, please click here.

Call for Volunteers to join DCDSB's Advisory Committee on Anti-Black Racism

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 18:45:00 GMT

February 26, 2021

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As part of the Durham Catholic District School Board’s Anti-Black Racism Strategy and commitment to Excellence, Equity and Engagement, we are creating an Advisory Committee focused on addressing anti-Black racism, and promoting Black excellence and success. This Committee will focus on issues and topics surrounding anti-Black racism, while promoting Black excellence through the exploration of Black voices, scholarships, histories, presence, achievements and access to opportunities.

We are currently seeking volunteers with a strong commitment to equity, inclusion, anti-oppression and dismantling anti-Black racism to join the Advisory Committee. The Working Committee will comprise of community stakeholders, students, staff, parents and guardians.

The Advisory Committee will be chaired by our Senior Manager of Equity, Anti-Racism and Engagement, Margaret Brimpong. Members will attend Advisory Committee and Subcommittee meetings from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. that will alternate monthly. The first main meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, March 30, 2021from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Future dates for the remainder of this year and for the upcoming 2021-2022 school year will be discussed at the first meeting.

How to Apply

If you are interested in volunteering, please email your name, contact information (email and phone number) and a statement as to why you are interested in joining the committee to equity@dcdsb.ca. Deadline for expression of interest is March 11, 2021.

Yours in Faith,

Margaret Brimpong,
Senior Manager of Equity, Anti-Racism and Engagement

Regional Arts & Media Program

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 14:30:00 GMT

We are excited to invite all Grade 6 and Grade 8 students to apply now for a September 2022 start. If you have a passion for the arts we encourage you to apply – no prior experience is necessary.

Program areas include Dance, Instrumental Music, Media Arts, Performing Arts (Drama and Vocal Music), and Visual Arts.

Key Dates:

October 11 – December 13, 2021: Online applications are open
November 3, 2021: Virtual AMP Information Session and Open House
November 20, 2021: Fall audition workshop C-AMP (registration required – no cost)
January 26-28, 2022: Auditions

All Saints Catholic Secondary School is a dual track school offering a comprehensive Grade 9-12 program for students who live within the All Saints Catholic Secondary School boundary alongside the Grade 7 - 12 Regional Arts & Media Program.

As part of the DCDSB’s commitment to equity, we are not charging an audition fee for applications received for a September 2022 start in the program.

To learn more, and to apply online, visit amp.dcdsb.ca.

Food for Clothing Exchange

Fri, 14 Oct 2016 18:00:00 GMT

We are now accepting donations of gently used winter clothing (snowsuits, coats, pants, hats, mitts, scarves, sweaters, shirts, jeans, boots, shoes, etc.) in all sizes for adults, teens and children.

The Food for Clothing Exchange will take place on:

Saturday, November 5, 2016
9:00 a.m. to 12 noon

Location: Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School
316 Conant Street, Oshawa, ON

This event is open to all families in Durham Region. Anyone needing clothing may attend the exchange. They are asked to bring a non-perishable food items which will be donated to the local food bank.

See the attached flyer for more information and where to drop off clothes that need to be dry cleaned. Or call Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School at 905-432-8470 or Jim Fergusson at 905-436-0275.

DCDSB - Air Quality Update for June 8, 2023

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 11:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

The safety of students and staff is a top priority for the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB).

We want to provide an update on activities in the DCDSB for Thursday, June 8, 2023.

A special air quality statement has been issued for Durham Region, with smoke from wildfires causing poor air quality and reduced visibility. Based on consultations with the Durham Region Health Department and a high risk due to the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI), we have recommended that students be kept indoors for recess and lunch today. All field trips, track and field meets, and other outdoor activities will be cancelled or relocated indoors.

The DCDSB will continue to work with the Durham Region Health Department to monitor the air quality and introduce additional safety measures where needed. For more information on outdoor air quality, please visit the Region of Durham website.

We anticipate similar recommendations will be in place on Friday, June 9, 2023, for secondary schools. Please note that Friday, June 9 is a PA Day for elementary students only.

School ventilation will continue to be adjusted as required. Portable HEPA units are currently being used throughout our schools.

For tips and more information on how to protect yourself from wildfire smoke, please visit the Government of Canada website.

If you have any questions, please contact your school.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

DCDSB News - March 2025

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 18:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians:

The March 2025 issue of the DCDSB News is now available! This newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what’s happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

Lenten Message
Faith
- Lenten Resources
- Ash Wednesday
Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation
- Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation Gala – Keynote Speaker Announcement!
DCDSB Updates
- DCDSB 2025-2026 Budget Consultation – Share Your Thoughts!
- DCDSB Black History Month Highlights Video
- Into the Horizon: DCDSB Student Art Exhibit at the Robert McLaughlin Gallery
- Supplementary Auditions for the Regional Arts and Media Program for a Grade 10, 11 or 12 Start
- Submit Nominations for April Beacons of Hope
- Upcoming Public Meetings – Unnamed Kedron Catholic Elementary School
Parent, Guardian and Caregiver Resources
- DCDSB – Report It
- Family Literacy Night
Indigenous Education
- Student Murals at Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School
- Students Paint with Isaac Murdoch at St. Isaac Jogues Catholic School
DCDSB Students
- Beacons of Hope Campaign at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School
- SHSM Students Participate in Innovation, Creativity and Entrepreneurship Day
- DCDSB Secondary Student Finalists in Legal Studies Essay Contest
- All Saints Catholic Secondary School Celebrates Double Award Win at Dramafest
Mental Health and Well-Being
- Black Mental Health Day
Continuing Education
- Summer School Registration – Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre
Upcoming Events

Sincerely,
Durham Catholic District School Board

DCPIC Parent Resource Conference - Registration Now Open

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 21:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

The Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) is pleased to present its Parent Resource Conference – Registration is now open!

Parents, guardians and caregivers of students within the Durham Catholic District School Board are invited to attend this free event, featuring Keynote Speaker Michael Way Skinner and breakout room sessions led by subject-matter experts, discussing a variety of topics related to child and youth education, development, wellness and more.

Complimentary child-minding is also available during the conference.

Date: Saturday, January 13, 2024
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Location: Archbishop Denis O'Connor Catholic High School (80 Mandrake Street, Ajax)

Click here to register.

Keynote – Michael Way Skinner: Being Catholic Parents in Trying Times

Breakout Sessions:

Youth Engagement on Substance Use
Social Media Safety
Engaging Students in STEAM and AI
Engaging Students in Literacy Education
Engaging Students in Math Education
Vaping Education in Our Schools

Click here to read about the keynote topic and breakout session descriptions.

Should you have any questions, please contact chair@dcpic.ca.

We hope to see you there!

Sincerely,

Rose Lo Presti
Chair, DCPIC

TRAILS to Wellness: Coping with Anxiety Virtual Group for Grade 3-6 Students

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 15:00:00 GMT

Does this sound like your child?

Avoiding situations or places because of fears
Constant Worrying
Clinging, crying and\or tantrums when you separate
Complaints of frequent stomach or headaches with no medical explanation
Difficulties sleeping or sleeping independently due to fears or worries

(checklist courtesy of Anxiety Canada)

If you answered yes to any of these questions, your child may be dealing with feelings of anxiety or sensitivity and may benefit from the TRAILS to Wellness: Coping with Anxiety Virtual group, which is an evidenced based group intervention aimed to reduce anxiety in children.

Join us for a virtual parent information session to learn about anxiety and sensitivity in children, how you can support your child and to learn if the TRAILS to Wellness: Coping with Anxiety Virtual group may be right for your child. Registration for this session is required. Please see below for information session details and frequently asked questions.

TRAILS to Wellness Coping with Anxiety Parent Information Session

When: Tuesday October 1, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Where: Virtual
Register here for the virtual information session

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is TRAILS to Wellness for?

TRAILS to Wellness: Coping with Anxiety is for Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) students in Grades 3-6 whose anxieties and sensitivities are affecting their daily life.

Who leads TRAILS to Wellness?

TRAILS to Wellness is delivered by two Registered Social Workers who work for the DCDSB. Both Social Workers have a Masters degree in Social Work and experience providing intervention to children with anxiety.

How are students selected for TRAILS to Wellness?

Parents and caregivers who are interested in the group will attend a virtual information session to learn more. If TRAILS to Wellness: Coping with Anxiety seems like it may be a good fit for their child, parents or guardians will sign up for a brief telephone screening with one of the group leaders. During this screening, the group leader will ask some key questions to help determine if the TRAILS to Wellness: Coping with Anxiety Virtual Group would be a good fit or if there are other resources that may be more helpful.

If my child is selected for TRAILS to Wellness, when and where will the group be held?

TRAILS to Wellness: Coping with Anxiety Virtual Group is a 10 week group and will be held virtually every Thursday evening and is expected to begin November 7, 2024.

Is there a parent component?

Parents and guardians will be responsible for ensuring their child is able to connect virtually each week, and to ensure that someone is in the home as a support during

session time if needed. Parents will also receive a weekly email to review the content of the group and ways they can support their child and they will be expected to attend the last two sessions to support the group intervention.

What if I am not sure if TRAILS to Wellness is right for my child?

Please attend the Information Session. The session will provide you with key information to help you to decide. If TRAILS to Wellness isn't right for you, you will still learn some general information about anxiety and how to support your child and will be informed of other resources that may be of interest.

What if I have questions?

If you have questions about the Parent Information Session or the TRAILS to Wellness group, you can email Jillian.hooper@dcdsb.ca or Kim.Sundal@dcdsb.ca

Read the Latest Issue of Celebrating Student Success Newsletter

Mon, 18 Mar 2019 14:30:00 GMT

The March issue of Celebrating Student Success newsletter is now available.

This issue features articles on:

Year of Joy – Celebrating Diversity at Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School;

Mental Health – Mental Health and Black History Month;
Experiential Learning – Grade 7 and 8 Students at St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School participate in Experiential Learning Opportunities;
"Love Yourself" Wellness Fair at St. James Catholic School;
St. Joseph Catholic School hosts First Lego Robotics Showcase;
Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School's Sports SHSM Students tour Lakeridge Health's LHEARN Centre;

Expanding Pathways – Health and Safety Training for Level 1 OYAP Students;
Student Achievement – St. John Bosco Catholic School Student Shoots her Way to the Top of the Knights of Columbus Free Throw Competition; and
Upcoming Events - Registration for Sumer Camp and Summer School Courses Opens on March 27, 2019.

Stay connected and sign up to receive the newsletter directly in your inbox.

DCDSB News - May 2025

Fri, 02 May 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The May 2025 issue of the DCDSB News is now available. This newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what’s happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

Catholic Education Week and Mental Health Week
Faith
- St. Bernadette Catholic School Celebrates Patron Saint
- Jubilee Cross Created and Blessed at Archbishop Denis O’Connor Catholic High School
Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation
- DCDSB Announces the 2025 Distinguished Catholic Alumni Recipients
Parent, Guardian, and Caregiver Resources
- Youth and Mental Health Night
DCDSB Updates
- Share Your Thoughts on our Multi-Year Plan Implementation
- Kindergarten Community Fair
- Unity Hub – Connecting Communities
- Submit Nominations for June Beacons of Hope
Indigenous Education
- National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People
- Land Walk at Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School
DCDSB Students
- Students from St. Joseph Catholic School in Oshawa Win National Student Songwriting Contest
- DCDSB Students Compete in Skills Ontario Pre-Qualifying Competition
- Lenten Food Drive at St. Mary Catholic Secondary School
- 2025 Durham Elementary Catholic Athletics (DECA) Lacrosse Tournament
- Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) Transportation Students Visit Canadian Tire Motorsport Park
Mental Health and Well-Being
- Mental Health Week Resources
Continuing Education
- Never Too Late: Tony’s Inspirational Journey to High School Graduation
Upcoming Events

To stay up to date, please follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @DurhamCatholic for more stories and information from DCDSB.

Sincerely,
Durham Catholic District School Board

DCPIC Self-Nominations are Now Open!

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 12:30:00 GMT

Dear DCDSB Families,

I hope that you and your children have had a good start to the 2025-2026 school year.

The Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) hosts elections for available positions on the committee at the beginning of each school year. In order to be eligible for a position on DCPIC, you must fill out the Self-Nomination Form for a position.

Our online Self-Nomination Form is open until Friday, September 26, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. Each eligible applicant who completes the Self-Nomination Form will be invited to speak at the in-person DCPIC meeting on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. Further details will be sent to eligible applicants via email after the deadline.

For information on the DCPIC, including how our committee works and who is eligible to sit on the committee, please visit our website.

Thank you for your interest and support of the DCPIC!

Yours in Faith,

Christine Santos
Chair, Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee

October's Student Success Newsletter

Wed, 04 Oct 2017 18:15:00 GMT

Read the latest issue of our Celebrating Student Success newsletter.

This issue features articles on:

Year of Service;
The Exercise-Brain Connection;
Learning 21^st Century Competencies via Cooperative Education;
Celebrating Franco-Ontarian Day;
Advanced Placement English Students at Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School Raise the Bar;
Establish Your Goals Now for the 2017-2018 School Year;
Empowering a Generation of Change-Makers at DCDSB; and
Upcoming Events.

Stay connected and sign up to receive the newsletter directly in your inbox.

DCDSB - Air Quality Update for June 28, 2023

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 10:45:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

The safety of students and staff is a top priority for the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB).?

A special air quality statement has been issued for Durham Region due to smoke from forest fires causing or expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility. Based on consultations with the Durham Region Health Department and a high risk due to the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI), we have recommended that students be kept indoors for recess and lunch today. All outdoor activities will be cancelled or relocated indoors.

School ventilation will continue to be adjusted as required. Portable HEPA units are currently being used throughout our schools.

For tips and more information on how to protect yourself from wildfire smoke, please visit the Government of Canada website.

If you have any questions, please contact your school.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Saint Boniface - OYAP/Religion Project

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 19:00:00 GMT

As we gather together in the warmth and joy of the holiday season, let us take a moment to reflect on the timeless message of Saint Boniface, a figure whose life exemplifies the spirit of Christmas.

Saint Boniface, known as the "Apostle of the Germans," dedicated his life to spreading the message of love, compassion, and faith. In the 8th century, he ventured into the heart of Europe, bringing the light of Christianity to those who had not yet heard its teachings. His tireless efforts to bridge cultures and connect communities serve as an inspiring example for us all.

On December 6, the Grade 2/3 students at St Joseph Catholic School in Oshawa collaborated with Grade 7/8 Tech students from Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School. The two schools participated in the co-construction of Saint Boniface wooden ornaments. This was an initiative funded by the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP).

During this festive season, let us remember the importance of unity and understanding. Saint Boniface's commitment to building bridges rather than walls encourages us to embrace one another with open hearts and minds. In a world that can sometimes feel divided, let Christmas be a time when we come together in the spirit of love and goodwill.

As we exchange gifts and share meals with our loved ones, let us also extend our generosity to those in need, just as Saint Boniface did. In the true spirit of Christmas, let kindness and compassion guide our actions, fostering a sense of community and togetherness.

May the legacy of Saint Boniface inspire us to be messengers of peace and bearers of light in our own communities. Wishing you all a Christmas filled with love, joy, and the warmth of shared moments.

DCDSB - Student Absence and Transportation Reminders

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 13:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

We are looking forward to welcoming students back to school on Monday, March 20, 2023, following the March Break. We have included a reminder of how to report a student absence, and how to subscribe to receive bus route alerts below.

Reporting a Student Absence
If your child is going to be absent, we ask that you please notify the school through one of the following:

Access the safe arrival portal login website: go.schoolmessenger.ca
Call the parent/guardian toll free number: 1-844-288-7628
Download the SchoolMessenger smartphone mobile application: SchoolMessenger
Call your child’s school and press 3 to be connected to the Safe Arrival system

Bus Route Information
Durham Student Transportation Services (DSTS) is responsible for ensuring safe and efficient transportation to and from school for eligible students in accordance with policy. For bus route information, including cancellations and delays, families are encouraged to create an account for the DSTS Parent Portal, where they can subscribe to receive email alerts for their child(ren)’s bus route(s). Please note that parents and guardians will require their child(rens) Ontario Education Number (OEN) to subscribe. DSTS also has a 24-hour automated information phone line, available at 1-866-908-6578 or 905-666-6979.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Statement regarding Attack on Muslims in London, ON

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 12:15:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board is deeply committed to the principles of equity and combating racism and discrimination in all its forms. We are called to recognize each, and every individual as created in the image of God, and the rights of all people to be treated with dignity and respect.

As a Catholic community, we pray for the victims and injured involved in the attack on Muslims in London, ON and for all people who are impacted by discrimination on a daily basis. We draw strength, comfort from each other, and support one another in dealing with the aftermath of this event.

At this time, we extend our assistance to all those who are experiencing heightened emotions. Students who may be struggling due to the unjust event shared in the media, are asked to reach out to a caring adult to arrange for additional support through our social workers and school chaplains, or principals.

We remain committed to creating a safe and inclusive learning environment for all our students and staff.

Reminder regarding Laws for Cannabis Use

Tue, 16 Oct 2018 19:00:00 GMT

As you are aware, the laws for cannabis use are changing on October 17, 2018. As parents and guardians we all have questions about the steps Ontario is taking to protect children and youth, the impact this may have on schools and what information and supports are available to parents/guardians and students.

Durham Catholic District School Board is reminding parents and students that:

The use of cannabis on school property still remains prohibited;
The use of cannabis is restricted to persons age 19 years and older;
Students who attend school while under the influence of cannabis or believed to be under the influence of cannabis (unless medically prescribed by a licensed physician) will be subject to progressive discipline under DCDSB policies.

The Ministry of Education has created a web page to provide parents with resources on how to talk to your child(ren) about cannabis, the use of drugs and what you need to know. For more information, click here.

Bullying Prevention and Intervention Week and Pink Shirt Day Design Contest

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 14:00:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) recognizes Bullying Prevention and Intervention Week, which takes place from November 17-24, 2025. Guided by our spiritual theme, Blessed are the Peacemakers (Matthew 5:9), we are inspired by Pope Leo’s call for peace and unity through dialogue and understanding.

Consistent with Pope Leo’s invocation of peace, the DCDSB believes that bullying in any form runs counter to Christ’s message of love, inclusion and respect. During this week, students will be encouraged to take an active role in creating safe and welcoming school communities by becoming upstanders, who speak out and support others, rather than bystanders.

As we focus on being peacemakers, we continue to pray for wisdom and courage to stand up against bullying and foster peace in our schools and communities.

Pink Shirt Day T-Shirt Design Contest
As part of Bullying Prevention and Intervention Week, Durham Catholic District School Board is offering an opportunity to all students to design our new t-shirt for Pink Shirt Day.

To celebrate student voice and creativity, and to honour the pivotal role that students play in bullying prevention, we are inviting students to design a t-shirt to be used to celebrate Pink Shirt Day that incorporates the theme “Kindness Connects Us”. Please see details below for design requirements.

All submissions should be sent to karen.lutz@dcdsb.ca by November 24, 2025. Submissions must indicate the student’s name, grade and school in the subject line of the email.

Winning submissions will be chosen by December 5, 2025.

Technical Requirements:

Fits within an 8.5x11” paper size maximum (note: designs may be smaller than this size)
Must be submitted digitally in PDF, JPEG or PNG file format
Keep in mind that the design will be printed on a pink shirt, so colour choice and design should be made with this in mind
Design must be the student’s original work (i.e. no AI generated content, etc.)
No copyrighted or trademarked material (e.g., logos, characters) should be included
Note that the selected design may need slight adjustments based on the printing requirements

Entries will be assessed by a selection committee, and the winning design will be printed on t-shirts that will be available to purchase in early 2026, in time for the DCDSB community to celebrate Pink Shirt Day on February 25, 2026.

For more information on DCDSB’s Bullying Prevention and Intervention efforts, including the newly revised Bullying Prevention and Intervention Plan, please visit dcdsb.ca.

For further details about bullying, including what to look for, what you can do and where to get help, please visit the Government of Ontario website.

COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics for Children Age 5-11

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 21:45:00 GMT

We are shring the following parent/guardian letter from the Durham Region Health Department.

Dear Parent or Guardian,

Re: Age 5-11 COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics

February 9, 2022

We are pleased to inform you that clinics will be organized at your school to provide first and/or second doses of COVID-19 vaccine to students aged 5-11 years of age during school hours. For these COVID-19 vaccination clinics we are requiring the consent of parents/guardians.

If you wish to attend a COVID-19 vaccination clinic with your child we will be planning evening clinics in February and March in a community school but these may not necessarily be in your child’s school. We will inform you of the school evening clinics in the very near future.

Vaccines are safe and continue to be the most effective strategy to protect Ontarians from COVID-19. The COVID-19 vaccine for children age 5-11 is a two-dose series. Although children and youth are less likely to get very sick from COVID-19, they can still:

be infected and not have any symptoms
spread COVID-19 to others
experience rare complications or longer-term effects if they do get infected

Vaccination Clinics for Students

Students aged 5 to 11 require parental or guardian consent to participate in the vaccine clinic that will operate during the school day. Parents should check their child’s backpack as consent forms will be sent home with your child from school. No child aged 5-11 will be vaccinated in a school clinic without parental consent.

For your child to be vaccinated, you must read, sign, and return the consent form to the school by February 16, 2022. Returned consent forms will be provided to the Durham Region Health Department and will be used for planning clinic dates during the month of February and March. Further information about the dates and times specific to your child’s school will be provided in the upcoming weeks.

Vaccines will be given during school hours, without parental presence. A parent/guardian will need to be available by phone, should the need arise for a nurse to contact them during your child’s vaccination time. Your child will need to be able to identify themselves by telling the nurse two pieces of information such as name, date of birth, address, or phone number. If they are unable to do so, they will not receive vaccine at the school clinic.

If you choose to withdraw consent, you must email consent@durham.ca by 8 AM the day of your child’s vaccine appointment.

You do not need to complete the consent form if you do not want your child vaccinated at the school.

Preparing Your Child for Vaccination

While COVID-19 vaccinations are safe, we understand you or your child may have questions about the vaccine. Please speak to your child about the many benefits of being vaccinated against COVID-19. To prepare your child for vaccination, please review Facts About COVID-19 Vaccine For Children 5-11, My COVID-19 Vaccine Roadmap, and CARD Tool for further information. If you have further questions, please call Durham Health Connection Line at 905-666-6242 or 1-800-841-2729.

Please note, it is important to have your child vaccinated as soon as possible. If you would prefer to have your child immunized outside of the school setting and/or at an earlier date than late February and March, please visit www.durham.ca/covidvaccines for information on how you can access the COVID-19 vaccine at our local community vaccination clinics.

Sincerely,

Regina Elliott RN, MN
Program Manager
Durham Region Health Department

DCDSB Oshawa Program and Boundary Study Updates

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

We are writing to share updates about the Durham Catholic District School Board’s Oshawa Program and Boundary Study. We greatly appreciate the feedback that our Catholic learning community has submitted to date.

We are pleased to share new videos and supporting materials that have been created to summarize the in-person information and to show the potential implications for each school in Oshawa for the boundary and program study. These videos and presentations can be viewed on our webpage, or in the table below:

School	Video	Presentation
Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School	View the video	View the presentation
Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School	View the video	View the presentation
Monsignor Philip Coffey Catholic School	View the video	View the presentation
Sir Albert Love Catholic School	View the video	View the presentation
St. Anne Catholic School	View the video	View the presentation
St. Christopher Catholic School	View the video	View the presentation
St. Hedwig Catholic School	View the video	View the presentation
St. John XXIII Catholic School	View the video	View the presentation
St. John Bosco Catholic School	View the video	View the presentation
St. Joseph Catholic School	View the video	View the presentation
St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School	View the video	View the presentation
St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School	View the video	View the presentation

Durham Catholic District School Board is committed to an open and transparent process that allows for public input through a variety of means. We scheduled a series of public meetings that were led by a committee comprised of staff and Catholic School Council representatives from each DCDSB school in Oshawa. The committee has been meeting regularly since November 2022 to review options and gather information that has been shared with the communities for input.

We will be hosting an additional virtual public meeting to present the final options under consideration and to offer our parents, guardians and caregivers the opportunity to ask questions and provide input. This is in addition to the previous in-person public meetings that have already taken place.

Thursday, May 4, 2023
7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Virtual Via Zoom Webinar
Webinar ID: 964 6179 4892
Passcode: 713390

If you require accessible accommodations to participate in this public meeting, please contact Lori Jones at 905-576-6150 Ext. 22238 in advance of the meeting so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

Through this series of public meetings, board staff will compile considerations and recommendations to bring to the June 19, 2023 Regular Board meeting.

If you are unable to attend the public meeting, a webpage has also been established to share information related to the boundary review: www.dcdsb.ca/boundaryreviews. Parents, guardians and caregivers are encouraged to submit their feedback and ask any questions through the feedback form available on the boundary review webpage.

We look forward to working with you at the upcoming meeting. Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Sincerely,

Jim Wilson Scott Grieve
Superintendent of Education Superintendent of Business, Finance
Oshawa Family of Schools and Facilities Services

COVID-19 Information from the Durham Region Health Department

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 21:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents/Guardians,

The Health Department hosted a virtual Town Hall on Thursday, December 2 for parents and guardians of children ages 5 – 11 to receive information about the pediatric COVID-19 Pfizer vaccine and have their questions answered. The informative session was a great opportunity for over 500 participants to hear from a panel of local medical and health care professionals. The recorded virtual Town Hall session is now available for those who were not able to attend.

Check out these videos for a tour of the Durham Region Health Department's children's clinic and to hear from four young Durham residents who are happy to have received their COVID-19 vaccine.

Walk through one of the Health Department's children’s clinics with public health nurse Darshani
Colton shares why he is happy to get the COVID-19 vaccine
Hear how three sisters feel about getting the COVID-19 vaccine

For additional information about the COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5 – 11, visit our webpages:

COVID-19 vaccination for children 5-11
durham.ca/covidvaccines#Children-5-11
Community Clinics Calendar for Children ages 5-11
durham.ca/ChildrensClinics/
Walk-in vaccination opportunities are also available in Durham Region via the provincial GO-VAXX program

View the attached PowerPoint presentation provided by the Durham Region Health Department for more information.

Ontario Government announces Return to Remote Learning on April 19, 2021

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 22:45:00 GMT

April 12, 2021

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Late this afternoon, the Government of Ontario announced that as a result of a rapid increase in COVID-19 transmission, a provincial decision has been made to return to remote learning for both elementary and secondary students following the April break. This decision has been made based on the advice of Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health - Click here to view the announcement.

At this time, there is no anticipated date for a return to in-person learning. The government has advised that data will be assessed on an ongoing basis, in consultation with health officials, to determine when a safe return to in-person learning is possible.

SCHEDULES FOR LEARNING FOLLOWING THE BREAK

Virtual Schools – Elementary and Secondary

For students previously enrolled in virtual learning (elementary or secondary) online instruction will resume on April 19, 2021 according to the previously established schedule.

Elementary (Kindergarten – Grade 8)

April 19, 2021 - Afternoon Only

Parents/Guardians can expect that educators will connect with their students in the afternoon using board approved platforms.

Schedules for the week, assignments and information will be sent from the school/educator to each student/family via Edsby, Microsoft Teams, and/or board email.

As in the past, real-time learning will be facilitated through Microsoft Teams, Zoom or Brightspace.

General Timelines

As in the past, when remote learning resumes:

Kindergarten students should be able to access up to 180 minutes of learning each day.
Students in Grades 1-8 should be able to access up to 225 minutes of learning each day.

Secondary (Grades 9-12)

April 19, 2021 – Day 1 of Quadmester 4 – Classes in Afternoon Only

On the first day back, there will be no classes in the morning.

The afternoon schedule will be as follows.

1:30 pm – 2:45 pm Course 7 Online

2:45 pm – 4:00 pm Course 8 Online

Moving forward from April 20, 2021 onwards:

Students in Grades 9-12 will continue to follow the same schedule that has been in place during past periods of remote learning

All students will be expected to engage in online learning in the morning (Blocks 1 and 2) every day.
Lunch break will be 60 minutes.
Students attending All Saints and Msgr. John Pereyma Catholic Secondary Schools will continue to follow their current schedule and start times of 8:50 a.m. (All Saints) and 9:00 a.m. (Pereyma) as noted on their schools’ websites.

Daily Schedule – Secondary Schools (excluding All Saints and Msgr. John Pereyma CSS)

Time	Schedule
10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.	Block 1
11:15 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.	Block 2
12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.	Lunch
1:30 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.	Block 3
2:45 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.	Block 4

April 19-23: Block 1 & 2 Course 7/Block 3 & 4 - Course 8

April 26-30: Block 1 & 2 Course 8/Block 3 & 4 - Course 7

May 3-7: Block 1 & 2 Course 7/Block 3 & 4 - Course 8

May 10-14 Block 1 & 2 Course 8/Block 3 & 4 - Course 7

Students with Exceptional Special Education Needs

Program Support Teachers will connect with the parents/guardians of our students with exceptional education needs beginning on April 19, 2021 in order to confirm programming needs and to put the necessary accommodations in place. Where required and appropriate, elementary and secondary students with the highest special needs who have been attending in person on a daily basis during past periods of remote learning, will be provided with the opportunity to return to in-person learning (for the full day) starting on April 21, 2021.

Technology Needs

Where access to technology is a barrier, families can contact their school on April 19, 2021 for support.

For technical support on board issued devices or applications such as Edsby, D2L/Brightspace, Office 365, etc., please email TechnologySupport@dcdsb.ca. In your email, please explain the issue you are experiencing such as password reset, along with your child’s full legal name, student User ID, date of birth, school name, grade and phone number where we can contact you.

Additional Ministry Supports for Learning

As a reminder TVO Learn?and?TFO?IDÉLLO, apprendre à la maison, provides supports for students learning remotely. You can access these additional educational resources developed by Ontario certified teachers to support learning.?

I wish you all a safe and healthy break and encourage all those who are currently eligible to obtain the vaccine. More information on vaccination appointments is available on the Durham Region Health Department website.

Yours in faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

Advent Message from the Chair of the Board and Director of Education

Fri, 26 Nov 2021 21:30:00 GMT

“For unto us a child is born.” (Isaiah 9:6)

As we enter the season of Advent, we allow time for silence, prayer and anticipation of the birth of our Saviour.

We invite our Durham Catholic families to ignite the Advent spirit in their homes by setting aside some time each day or week to reflect on the season. Our Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee have created an Advent calendar with daily suggestions for activities you can complete together at home.

To our friends and partners who celebrate nondenominational traditions, may you find peace, love, and joy in your hearts this holiday season.

On behalf of the Durham Catholic District School Board, we want to extend thanks to all our students, families, staff members, clergy, parish communities and community partners for your cooperation and collaboration this past year. In a spirit of gratitude, we are thankful to our health care providers, public health nurses, health department staff and medical experts for their continued dedication throughout the pandemic.

We look forward to our continued journey together in the New Year. The opportunity to work in collaboration with all of our partners here at the Durham Catholic District School Board, in our community, and across the province is a blessing.

May the Birth of Jesus Christ illuminate your hearts this Christmas season!

Yours in Catholic Faith,

Morgan Ste. Marie Tracy Barill
Chair of the Board Director of Education

St. Joseph Catholic School in Oshawa is a Top 10 Finalist in the CBC Canadian Music Class Challenge

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 15:45:00 GMT

A huge congratulations to the incredible students at St. Joseph Catholic School in Oshawa on being named a top 10 finalist in this year’s CBC Canadian Music Class Challenge! St. Joseph Catholic School is the only school in Durham Region to be named a top 10 finalist for 2024.

Listen to our very talented students live performance of "Everything Is Boring" by The Beaches in the Elementary Vocal (Grade 4-6) category.

A special thank you to Mr. Parker for his work in practicing every recess for a month with the Grade 4-6 students, which includes seven singers and five-piece band. The ensemble says it took lots of hard work and lots of fun to make this video!

Watch the St. Joseph Catholic School performance here.

Complete the DCPIC Parent Survey

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 16:00:00 GMT

April 30, 2020

Dear Durham Catholic Parents and Guardians,

We want to hear from you!

We welcome input from parents, guardians and caregivers. The survey consists of six questions and will take approximately 5 minutes to complete. To complete the survey, click here.

About DCPIC

Yours in Faith,

Melissa Bevan
Chair, Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee

DCDSB News: November 2023

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 17:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

The November 2023 DCDSB News is now available! This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what’s happening across the DCDSB.

This newsletter includes:

Lest We Forget

Living in Faith:

Speaking With the Heart – Designing the 2023-2024 Spiritual Theme Poster
When Faith Meets Pedagogy Educators Conference and Youth Forum
Catholic Student Awards Dinner

Indigenous Education In Action:

Indigenous Veterans Day
Treaties Recognition Week
Indigenous Education Highlights

DCDSB Updates:

Equity Invitational Learning Series
2022-2023 EQAO and OSSLT Results
Grade 1 French Immersion Registration
Regional Arts & Media Program Registration Deadline
Direction of School Support
Elementary and Secondary PA Day – Friday, November 17, 2023
How to Understand and Support Your Child with Anxiety
New Grade 7/8 Mental Health Literacy Modules Support Student Mental Health and Well-being
Inclement Weather Reminder

Student Spotlight: Mateo N.
School Spotlight: St. Leo Catholic School
Safe and Accepting Schools

DCDSB Students:

Archbishop Denis O’Connor Catholic High School Builds and Donates Dog Houses to Ontario SPCA and Humane Society
Durham Elementary Catholic Athletics (DECA) Highlights
Aspiring Black Students Led By Excellence (A.B.L.E.) visit Legislative Building
Grade 8 Girls Learn to Weld
Community Fair and Symposium Recap
Friars Student Writing Contest

Continuing Education:

Travel for Credit Program – Summer 2024

Upcoming Events:

Recognition days and more

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Domestic Sex Trafficking of Youth: Awareness and Prevention Workshop

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 17:45:00 GMT

Victim Services of Durham Region Presents: Domestic Sex Trafficking of Youth: Awareness and Prevention on Wednesday, July 27, 2022 from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. online via Zoom.

This is an online workshop that empowers caregivers and community members with psycho-education on human trafficking to prevent youth from being trafficked.

In this seminar, you will:

Understand how human trafficking occurs in Durham Region
Learn how youth can be recruited and lured in
Learn how COVID-19 has increased youth vulnerability
Understand what makes youth vulnerable
Learn how to identify if youth are being trafficked
Understand what online safety is and how to implement it
Learn how to speak to youth about this topic
Hear from the parent of a survivor

For questions and concerns, please email: kmoore@drps.ca

DCDSB News - April 2024

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 20:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

The April 2024 DCDSB News is now available! This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what’s happening across the DCDSB.

This newsletter includes: ?

Living in Faith:
- DCDSB Secondary Students Attend Ordinandi Lunch
- Community Care and Commitment to ShareLife Fundraising

Indigenous Education in Action:
- National Indigenous Languages Day
- Indigenous Education Resources and Ancestry Self-Identification
- Indigenous Education Highlights

DCDSB Updates:
- Summer School Facilities Rental Request
- Reminder: Elementary and Secondary PA Day is on April 8, 2024
- Kindergarten Resource Fair
- St. Anne Catholic School Addition Opening and Blessing
- 10th Annual Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation Gala
- #ForeTheKids Golf Classic in support of the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation
- DCDSB Student Trustee Election

Mental Health and Well-Being:
- Life Promotion/Suicide Prevention - Prepare, Prevent and Respond Virtual Workshop

School Spotlight
- Monsignor Philip Coffey Catholic School

DCDSB Students:
- 2023-2024 Student Demographic Survey
- Summer STEM Camp for Black Students
- Join the Regional Arts and Media Program
- Grade 7-9 Students Participate in Virtual Engagement Session
- Black Excellence Museum at St. Theresa Catholic School

Continuing Education:
- Summer School Registration – Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre?

Upcoming Events

Sincerely,
Durham Catholic District School Board

DCDSB Moving to Teacher-Led Online Learning

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 22:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Today the provincial government announced that based on the recommendations of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, elementary and secondary students will move to remote teacher-led online learning beginning on January 5, 2022. Click here to read the news release.

We have been advised that the province is committed to re-opening schools as soon as possible and hope to do so by January 17, 2022. Tomorrow will be used for staff to plan and prepare for the move to online learning.

Educators will be contacting students/families on Wednesday, January 5, 2022 via Edsby or email to review remote learning details according to the schedule below.

Schedule of Learning

Durham Catholic Virtual Elementary School
For students enrolled in Durham Catholic Virtual Elementary School (DCVES) online instruction will resume on January 5, 2022.

In-Person Elementary Students (Kindergarten – Grade 8)

Parents/Guardians can expect that educators will connect with their students/families on Wednesday, January 5, 2022.
Classes will resume on Thursday, January 6, 2022 following the regular schedule.
Schedules for the week, assignments and information will be sent from the school/educator to each student/family via Edsby and/or board email address.
Real-time learning will be done through Microsoft Teams, Zoom or D2L/Brightspace.

Secondary Students (Grades 9-12)
Beginning January 5, 2022 educators will connect with students electronically at regularly scheduled class times. In a shortened period, each class will review online protocols and answer any questions with a focus on faith and well-being.

Secondary students will resume their regularly scheduled classes on Thursday, January 6, 2022.

Technology
Where access to technology is a barrier, families are asked to call their school’s office or email their child’s teacher via Edsby as soon as possible. The school’s Principal will advise when technology is available for pick up.

For technical support on Board issued devices or applications such as Edsby, D2L/Brightspace, Office 365, etc., please email?TechnologySupport@dcdsb.ca?and explain the issue you are experiencing (for example, a password reset). Please include in the email, the student name, student User ID, date of birth, school name, grade and phone number where we can contact you.

Edsby Support for Parents/Guardians/Students
Instructional videos are available for parents/guardians/students online at: https://dcdsb.ca/Edsby

Students with Exceptional Special Education Needs
Program Support Teachers will connect with the parents/guardians of our students with the highest exceptional education needs beginning on Tuesday, January 4, 2022 in order to discuss programming and to put the necessary accommodations in place. Where it is determined that a student requires in-person support, arrangements will be made with the aim of starting on Friday, January 7, 2022.

Childcare Services
As part of the province’s response to the Omicron variant, child care services remain available for school-aged children of health care and other eligible frontline workers. School based childcare centres remain open for families who require emergency childcare services. Please contact your school’s Childcare Centre directly for more information.

Attendance
During this period of remote learning, it is requested that parents/guardians continue to report absences using our board’s Safe Arrival program.

Educators will take student attendance at the beginning of class. If a student connects any time during the day they should be marked as present.

If a parent/guardian indicates that the student will not be connecting synchronously but will be doing the work at home, they will also be marked as present.

Secondary students are expected to connect online during each block in order to be marked as present.

Additional Ministry Supports for Learning
Parents/Guardians are reminded that the Ministry of Education offers the following learning portals,?TVO Learn?and?TFO?IDÉLLO, apprendre à la maison, which provide supports for students learning remotely by accessing additional educational resources developed by Ontario certified teachers.?

Vaccinations
Parent/Guardians are encouraged to vaccinate their child(ren) against COVID-19. If you are interested in obtaining a COVID-19 vaccination for your child or a booster shot for yourself, please book an appointment at Durham Region Health Department.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding as we endeavour to support these enhanced measures to keep our community safe during the new safety protocols.

Our offices will continue to remain open. If you or your child need assistance, please call your school office and speak to a member of our staff. May God’s blessings be with all of us as we move with hope into a New Year.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

2023-2024 Student Demographic Survey

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 18:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

It is the mission of the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) to be an inclusive Catholic learning community that inspires every student to achieve their full potential through faith and education.

In order to effectively support every student in reaching their full potential, resources and supports need to be aligned with student needs. To assist in making evidence-based and informed decisions about supports and resource allocation, we will be conducting a Student Demographic Survey from April 22-26, 2024. Collecting demographic data allows the board to better analyze the trends and patterns in student achievement and student success.

We have outlined information about the Student Demographic Survey below and have created a webpage where you can preview the survey questions and access answers to frequently asked questions. Please visit dcdsb.ca/StudentSurvey to learn more.

About the Student Demographic Survey
The Student Demographic Survey offers students an opportunity to share information about their identities related to the protected grounds of the Ontario Human Rights Code (OHRC).

The voluntary survey will collect confidential student demographic data that will enable DCDSB to better understand our students, and to inform plans to improve student achievement and student success.

The content of the survey is guided by the Anti-Racism Data Standards. The survey will help to meet our obligations related to planning and monitoring the annual Student Achievement Plan, mandated by the Ministry of Education under the Better Schools and Student Outcomes Act, 2023. The survey will allow the board to identify, monitor and address:

disproportionalities with respect to student course enrollment, suspensions, expulsions and exclusions, and special education programs and services; and
disparities with respect to student achievement, well-being and sense of belonging.

The survey is voluntary – meaning you can choose if you want to complete the survey; skip questions you do not want to answer; or stop completing the survey at any time. The Student Demographic Survey is confidential and follows all privacy laws.

Completing the Survey
The survey will include all students from Kindergarten - Grade 12:

Kindergarten - Grade 8 Survey: parents/guardians will be invited to complete the survey on behalf of their child(ren) between April 22-26, 2024. An invitation will be sent to parents/guardians via the email address on file at their child(ren)'s school(s), and will include a unique, confidential link to the survey. Parents/guardians will receive a unique link/URL for each child.

Grade 9-12 Survey: students will be invited to complete the survey during class time in the week of April 22-26, 2024. An invitation will be sent to students via their DCDSB student email address on April 22, 2024, and will contain a unique, confidential link to the survey. If you do not want your child (under 18 years of age) in Grades 9-12 to participate in the survey, please complete the Student Demographic Survey Opt-Out Form by Friday, April 12, 2024. Grade 9-12 students who have opted out of survey completion will be provided with classroom work during that time at the teacher's discretion.

A summary of the overall Student Demographic Survey data will be made available on school and board websites in Fall 2024.

If you have any questions about the Student Demographic Survey, please contact your school. Should you have any questions about the data collection process, please contact StudentSurvey@dcdsb.ca.

Thank you for participating in the Student Demographic Survey. Your continued partnership makes a difference and will contribute to our program and resource planning.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill Kayode Akomolafe
Director of Education Human Rights and Equity Advisor

Summer Programs for Elementary Students

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 14:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

Registration is now open for the following elementary summer school programs.

Literacy and Numeracy Camps for Grades 6, 7 and 8
In-person camps are offered for students who are completing Grades 6, 7 and 8. Students will develop their literacy and numeracy skills through engaging and fun hands-on experiences. Camp descriptions, location and registration details are available for each camp:

Registrations are due by June 13, 2025, or will close once a program is full. Please register at our website.

Head Start Program (August 18, 2025 – August 21, 2025)
The Head Start Program is available to all Grade 8 students going into Grade 9 at one of our Durham Catholic District School Board high schools. The program involves a review of literacy and numeracy skills and provides students with a preview of the Grade 9 curriculum for Mathematics and English. Study skills, health and well-being are also integrated into the program.

Registrations are due by June 27, 2025. Please register at our website.

Elementary International Languages Program
There are two sessions available for this program:

Session 1: July 2, 2025 – July 25, 2025
Session 2: July 28, 2025 – August 15, 2025

We offer free summer International and Heritage Language classes for elementary students currently registered in JK to Grade 8. Please register at our website.

French for Kindergarten to Grade 3
There are two sessions available for this program:

Session 1: July 2, 2025 – July 25, 2025
Session 2: July 28, 2025 – August 15, 2025

Students who are currently enrolled in Kindergarten to Grade 3 are invited to register for French language classes during the summer. The cost for this program is $190 for Session 1 and $140 for Session 2. Please register at our website.

Reach Ahead High School Credit (July 2, 2025 – July 25, 2025)
Reach Ahead High School credit summer courses are available for current Grade 8 students who will be attending a DCDSB secondary school in September.

Registrations for are due by June 13, 2025. Please register at our website.

If a student registers for a Reach Ahead High School Credit (July 2, 2025 – July 25, 2025), they are not able to register for a non-credit program during that time.

If you have any questions about the non-credit literacy/numeracy programs or Head Start, please contact cont.ed@dcdsb.ca or call (905) 683-7713. For questions about the Reach Ahead High School Credit Program, please contact credit.reg@dcdsb.ca or call (905) 438-0570. All summer school information can be found on the website www.con-ed.ca.

Thank you for your interest in summer school. We look forward to supporting your child’s education.

Sincerely,
Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre

DPIC Fall 2018 Newsletter

Thu, 15 Nov 2018 17:00:00 GMT

The latest issue of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee's newsletter is now available. (See the link below for newsletter) This issue features articles on:

Greeting from the committee's new Chair;
Math @ Home kits; and
Highlights from DCPIC Events.

For more information, visit dcpic.ca

DCDSB Oshawa Program and Boundary Study Approved Recommendations

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 20:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

Why did the study take place?

When did the study take place?

What will the boundary change look like?

September 2023:

Approved boundary change for St. Joseph Catholic School and Sir Albert Love Catholic School that will be applicable to any new registrations (i.e. registering after June 19, 2023) and will take effect beginning in September 2023. A portion of Sir Albert Love Catholic School boundary (Satellite Area) will be directed to St. Joseph Catholic School and a portion of St. Joseph Catholic School enrolment will be directed to Sir Albert Love Catholic School. This boundary change is only in effect for students registering after June 19, 2023. Current students and any students who registered prior to this date will not be impacted. Please see map for details.
Any Year 2 Kindergarten – Grade 8 students registering after June 19, 2023, in the St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School boundary will be redirected to St. John Bosco Catholic School. New French Immersion students (Grade 2-8) will only be admitted where space permits. Current students and any students who registered prior to this date will not be impacted for the 2023-2024 school year.

September 2024:

Beginning with students who are currently in Grade 7 at Sir Albert Love Catholic School, when students graduate from Grade 8 (i.e. beginning in June 2024), they will transition into Grade 9-12 at Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School (note that Sir Albert Love Catholic School currently feeds into Msgr. Paul Dwyer Catholic High School). Please see map for details.

Sir Albert Love will remain a Kindergarten – Grade 8 elementary school, pending a school consultation/survey.

A portion of the English/regular track boundary from St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School will be moved east to St. Hedwig Catholic School. Current students and any students registered for the 2023-2024 school year will not be impacted. This boundary change only applies to new students registering for the 2024-2025 school year. Please see map for details.
St. Christopher Catholic School boundary will be expanded east to take in a portion of both St. Joseph Catholic School and Sir Albert Love Catholic School. Current students and any students registered for the 2023-2024 school year will not be impacted. This boundary change only applies to new students registering for the 2024-2025 school year. Please see map for details.

When the new Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School opens, the following will take effect:

St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School will become a Kindergarten – Grade 6 elementary school. All Grade 7 and 8 students (English and French Immersion) from St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School will be accommodated at the new Msgr. Paul Dwyer Catholic High School. Please see map for details.
St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School will become a Kindergarten – Grade 6 elementary school. All Grade 7 and Grade 8 students (French Immersion) from St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School will be accommodated at the new Msgr. Paul Dwyer Catholic High School. Please see map for details.

Further consultation is required to determine implementation plan for the following:

St. Christopher Catholic School will become an English Kindergarten – Grade 8 elementary school with its existing French Immersion program being re-located to St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School and St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School. Through future consultation, implementation details including date this will take effect, and any potential legacy students (i.e., may allow Grade 7 & 8 students to graduate out, if numbers are viable), will be determined. Consultations will begin in September 2023. Please see map for details.

Transportation

Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Sincerely,

Jim Wilson Scott Grieve
Superintendent of Education Superintendent of Business, Finance
Oshawa Family of Schools and Facilities Services

Durham Catholic Children's Foundation Gala - Keynote Speaker Announcement!

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 16:45:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation is thrilled to welcome Noah Aquino as our keynote speaker for the 11th Annual Gala on April 23, 2025!

A proud DCDSB alumnus, Noah has built a remarkable career in media, youth mentorship, and community leadership. From his time at All Saints Catholic Secondary School, where he was an award-winning student leader, to his current role at Breakfast Television on Citytv, Noah continues to make an impact.

Beyond his media career, he is committed to guiding and uplifting young people as a Youth and Confirmation Coordinator at St. Francis de Sales Parish. His dedication to faith, mentorship, and service makes him an inspiring voice for this year’s gala.

??? Tickets are available now for $130! Purchase your tickets today and be part of this memorable evening.

?? April 23, 2025
?? Tosca Banquet Hall, Oshawa
?? http://durhamcatholicfoundation.ca/gala

We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

Unity Hub - Connecting Communities

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 13:45:00 GMT

Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) Student Services presents Unity Hub - Connecting Communities on Thursday, May 8, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School (1375 Harwood Ave N, Ajax). Join us to find out about services and programs offered by various community organizations, agencies and post secondary pathways.

Presentations from Participation House, Durham College Access and Support Centre, and Resources for Exceptional Children and Youth will begin at 5:00 p.m.

If you require accommodation in order to participate, please contact Karen Lutz (karen.lutz@dcdcsb.ca) to make your needs known in advance.

Please view the attached flyer for more information.

Share your Thoughts on DCDSB's 2022-2023 Budget

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The Durham Catholic District School Board’s Finance Committee are currently in the process of gathering feedback to assist with our 2022-2023 budget development. Parents and guardians play an important role in the success and support of our students and we want to hear from you.

We invite you to engage in a ThoughtExchange and share your thoughts on the following question:

From your perspective as a valued member of our Catholic learning community what are the most important or impactful investments the Board should continue or consider for the 2022-2023 budget that would enhance student well-being, academic achievement or educational experience?

Your thoughts can be shared by clicking here.

The ThoughtExchange is anonymous and will allow you to share your thoughts and rate the thoughts and ideas of others. The ThoughtExchange will be available until Friday, April 22, 2022.

Yours in Faith,

Trustee Forster Marie Hammond
Chair, DCDSB Finance Committee Chief Financial Officer

Durham Student Transportation Services - Bell Time Study

Wed, 25 Jan 2017 20:45:00 GMT

Please see the attached letter regarding the Durham Student Transportation Services Bell Time Study and the upcoming region wide community consultation dates.

Ontario Government Announces Funding to Provide New Catholic Elementary School and Additional Pupil Spaces in Oshawa

Tue, 21 May 2024 16:15:00 GMT

The Ontario Government is investing $31.0 million to provide additional pupil spaces in Oshawa. This funding will provide a new Catholic elementary school in north Oshawa and will expand St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic Elementary School in Oshawa. This investment in Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) announced by Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education, Todd McCarthy, Minister of Public and Business Service Delivery and MPP for Durham, Lorne Coe, Parliamentary Assistant to the Premier and MPP for Whitby, and Patrice Barnes, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development and MPP for Ajax, will support the creation of 760 student spaces as part of the government’s commitment to building modern schools for Ontario youth.

The projects are part of a $1.3 billion investment to support new school construction and expansions to existing schools, including child care spaces, announced by Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education, as part of the Capital Priorities Program.

The overall investment, which is the highest ever made in a single year, supports the creation of more than 27,000 new student spaces and more than 1,700 licensed child care spaces at schools across Ontario.

“Our government is more than doubling the funding to build new schools, which represents the single largest investment in school building in Ontario history,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education. “We are stepping up with a massive investment to build the homes, schools, and communities our province needs, and to ensure children have access to state-of-the-art schools close to home that give them real life and job skills to succeed in the future. I want to reiterate my thanks to MPP Todd McCarthy for his relentless advocacy for local families.”

“Today’s announcement is great news for our community and demonstrates our government’s commitment to ensure our children are able to learn and play in safe spaces that will help them to reach their full potential both now and into the future” said Todd McCarthy, MPP for Durham. “Young students attending the new Kedron #1 Catholic elementary school and the expanded St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School will benefit as they learn in modern schools that get students back-to-basics with hands-on learning to be better prepared for the jobs of the future.”

Highlights of the projects include:

A 138-pupil, six-classroom addition to St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School to address accommodation pressure in Oshawa.
A new 622 pupil place Catholic elementary school to address accommodation pressure in the Kedron development area of north Oshawa.

“Our sincere thanks to the Province of Ontario and Ministry of Education, the Honourable Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education, the Honourable Todd McCarthy, Minister of Public and Business Service Delivery and MPP for Durham, Mr. Lorne Coe, Parliamentary Assistant to the Premier and MPP for Whitby, and Ms. Patrice Barnes, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development and MPP for Ajax, for this wonderful news for Catholic education,” said Monique Forster, Chair of the Durham Catholic District School Board. “The six-classroom addition to St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School and new unnamed Catholic elementary school will allow us to address the population growth and continue to serve our students and families in north Oshawa.”

Quick Facts:

A $27.6 million investment will support a new Kedron #1 Catholic elementary school in Oshawa.
A $3.4 million investment will support an addition to the St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School located in Oshawa.

Durham Catholic Children's Foundation: 2024 Annual Report

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 17:30:00 GMT

We are pleased to present the 2024 Durham Catholic Children's Foundation Annual Report. We invite you to visit our website to view highlights of the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation priorities, fundraising initiatives, impact, people, stories, and financials.

View the 2024 Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation Annual Report

The Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation continues to illuminate the lives of students and families within our schools, made possible through the generosity of our donors, supporters, and partners. In 2024, your generosity enabled us to extend a helping hand to over 270 students and 158 families across 37 schools. Through initiatives such as our #ForetheKids Charity Golf Classic, Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation Gala, Giving Tuesday, Student Walk for Hope, and other impactful activities, we have been blessed to provide essential resources and opportunities to those in need. This year alone, we raised $106,901, bringing our total funds raised since our humble beginnings in 2014 to an incredible $720,000.

We extend our deepest gratitude to our donors, volunteers, and partners, whose support has helped foster a nurturing and supportive environment for Durham Catholic students. Your contributions not only address immediate needs but also create a foundation for academic, social, and emotional growth for every child we serve.

To learn more about the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation, please visit our website.

Holy Week Message from the Chair of the Board and Director of Education

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 13:00:00 GMT

"And, after he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” (1 Corinthians 11:24)

With signs of new beginnings all around us, the arrival of spring signals a time of hope, change and renewal. During this time, we also prepare for the holiest days of our Liturgical calendar – the celebration of the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is a time to renew our faith and deepen our relationship with God. As we journey through Holy Week, we are humbled by the profound act of love and sacrifice that Jesus made for our salvation and joyfully celebrate the promise of His resurrection.

Throughout this year, our spiritual theme in Durham Catholic has called upon us all to Listen with the Ear of the Heart. This Lenten season, Pope Francis has continued to encourage us to listen to Jesus and to those around us, especially to those who are in need. We hope you have found time in the weeks since Ash Wednesday to listen, reflect, grow, and learn.

Holy Week has always been a special time in our Catholic schools. Together, we will gather in prayer to reflect on Jesus’ journey to the cross.

It is our hope that the hearts of those in our Catholic learning community are filled with hope, peace, and renewal in the coming week. On behalf of the Durham Catholic District School Board, we wish you and your family a blessed and joyous Easter.

Yours in Faith,

Monique Forster Tracy Barill
Chair of the Board Director of Education

Supporting the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation -Tickets on Sale for Virtual Gala

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 21:00:00 GMT

April 21, 2022

Dear Parent(s) and Guardian(s),

I’m writing to you today on behalf of the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation (DCCF). DCCF was established to ensure that students can attend school with the basic daily necessities of life provided. We recognize the importance of nurturing the whole student in mind, body and spirit to foster well-being and positive learning outcomes.

In serving the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) and its communities, DCCF contributes to supporting the most vulnerable children and families in Durham Region, bringing hope and enabling them to reach their full potential. Through signature fundraising events and donor contributions, DCCF enables a formal mechanism for coordinating charitable initiatives and raising funds to support student participation in all aspects of school life.

Since 2017, DCCF has raised over $220,000 for our Direct Family Assistance program. These funds were used to purchase food, clothing, medical necessities, transportation passes, gift cards and much more. These funds went directly to students and families in need in our DCDSB school community. In addition to our Direct Assistance Program, DCCF also raised $40,000 for our Emergency Support Fund which helped aid families that were faced with significant unexpected challenges. Finally, DCCF raised roughly $26,000 for our Bursary Program that directly supported students in our school communities pursuing a post-secondary pathway. These funds have been crucial for our students and families in the DCDSB over the years, and we hope to continue being an agent of change for years to come.

Like many other charitable organizations, our fundraising capabilities were significantly impacted by COVID-19. As a result, we are trying to raise funds through various means such as private donations, corporate sponsorships, grants and fundraising. All proceeds will go to the DCCF, which will directly support students in our Catholic school communities.

I am inviting you to join us at our first ever Virtual Gala taking place on Friday, May 6 at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom. The gala will feature entertainment by world renown magician, Michael Bourada, the Distinguished Catholic Student Alumni awards, many door prizes, and a silent auction you don’t want to miss. Tickets are $35.00 per person and can be purchased on www.durhamcatholicfoundation.ca. To learn more about the gala, please follow us on Instagram @dcchildrensfoundation and Twitter @DC_ChildrensFdn.

Thank you in advance for your cooperation and support.

Sincerely,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation 650 Rossland Road West, Oshawa, Ontario L1J 7C4

Phone: 905-576-6150 ext. 22850 E-mail: info@durhamcatholicfoundation.ca

CHARITABLE REGISTRATION NUMBER: 80442 9041 RR0001

Student Walk for Hope in Support of the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation

Tue, 20 May 2025 17:45:00 GMT

Schools across the Durham Catholic District School Board will be participating in the Student Walk for Hope in support of the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation in June 2025!

Students and staff are invited to donate “virtual” toonies to support Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation initiatives. Funds collected will assist the Foundation in helping children and families in the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Thank you for supporting the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation.

November 27 - Register for Let's Talk Trades

Wed, 07 Nov 2018 17:00:00 GMT

Durham Catholic District School Board's Student Success Department are hosting a Let's Talk Trades evening at Durham College's Whitby Campus on Tuesday, November 27, 2018 from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. (Doors open at 6:30 p.m.)

Students in Grades 7-12 and their parents/guardians are invited to learn about opportunities in the skilled trades, the Ontario Youth Apprentice Program (OYAP) and tour the college.

Space is limited, so please register at http://whoozin.com/PMF-T4M-KGNN. Maximum of 2 guests per student. Free parking is available.

See attached flyer for additional details. For more information, please email Claudine Longo at claudine.longo@dcdsb.ca

DCDSB Inspire 2026 Survey - We Want to Hear from You!

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 13:15:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is committed to transparent and ongoing engagement with students, staff, families, and members of the Durham Catholic learning community. As we enter the third year of implementing our multi-year strategic plan, Inspire 2026, we are seeking your input to help guide current implementation efforts and future planning.

The strategic priorities outlined in Inspire 2026 are:

Supporting Faith and Well-Being
Advancing Human Rights and Equity
Improving Student Learning

We invite all students, staff, families and members of the Durham Catholic learning community to participate in a brief survey designed to gather feedback on the following:

What aspects are working well in terms of the implementation of our multi-year plan, Inspire 2026, and what suggestions do you have for our future planning?

Please click here to participate in this brief survey.

Your feedback will play an important role in informing and monitoring the progress of our strategic plan. The survey will remain open until Friday, October 31, 2025.

We kindly ask that all responses remain respectful and constructive to ensure thoughtful dialogue about the board’s plans.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support.

December's Issue of Celebrating Student Success Newsletter

Fri, 23 Dec 2016 13:00:00 GMT

Read the latest issue of our Celebrating Student Success newsletter.

This issue features articles on:

Advent Message;
Community Begins with our Students at All Saints CSS;
Holiday Wellness Tips;
Showcasing Students' Talents at Archbishop Denis O'Connor CHS;
St. Jude CS competes in Robotics Competition;
Building a Healthier Planet at DCDSB's Youth Environmental Summit;
Archbishop Denis O'Connor CHS wins UOIT's Engineering Competition;
Durham Catholic Secondary School Students honoured at Father Patrick Fogarty Awards;
Notre Dame CSS Student receive Full Scholarship; and
Developing a Positive Attitude towards Mathematics.

Stay connected and sign up to receive the newsletter directly in your inbox.

Learn at Home Online Resources

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 21:00:00 GMT

March 20, 2020

Learn at Home Online Resources

Today the Government of Ontario and Ministry of Education launched the Learn at Home online resource for continued learning during the provincial-ordered school closure period currently in place until April 5, 2020.

As indicated by the province, these materials do not replace what students have been learning at school, however, during this unprecedented time, these at-home activities offer quick and easy access to some of Ontario’s best online Kindergarten to grade 12 learning resources.

Students, parents and guardians can access the link from any computer or mobile device here: Learn at Home

We appreciate your support and cooperation as we work together to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the community.

Source: Ministry of Education Announcement - Helping Students Learn from the Safety of Their Own Home

DCPIC is Accepting Nominations for 2022-2023 Parent Members

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 20:00:00 GMT

Dear DCDSB Families,

I hope that you and your children have had a good start to the 2022-2023 school year.

Our online Self-Nomination Form is open from Tuesday, September 20, 2022, until Friday, September 30, 2022, at 4:00 p.m. EST. Each eligible applicant who completes the Self-Nomination Form will be invited to speak at the in-person DCPIC meeting on Thursday, October 6, 2022, at 7:30 p.m. Further details will be sent to eligible applicants via email after the deadline.

For information on the DCPIC, including how our committee works and who is eligible to sit on the committee, please visit our Frequently Asked Questions webpage.

For information on the self-nomination process, please visit our Current Opportunities webpage.

Thank you for your interest and support of the DCPIC.

Yours in Faith,

Melissa Bevan
Chair, Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee

Skills Ontario Summer Camp - Registration opens January 18, 2017

Fri, 16 Dec 2016 17:00:00 GMT

Inspire the next generation of skilled trades and technology professionals. Camp is open to all students going into Grades 7, 8, and 9.

Register early to avoid disappointment. For more information, view the attached documents for cost and location of camps or visit Skills Ontario Summer Camp website.

DCDSB Hires Human Rights and Equity Advisor

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 13:00:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is pleased to announce the appointment of Kayode Akomolafe to the position of Human Rights and Equity Advisor starting June 6, 2022.

Kayode Akomolafe is a lawyer and joins DCDSB from the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission, where he has been an Investigator for Systemic Advocacy since 2019. Prior to immigrating to Canada, Mr. Akomolafe practiced law in Nigeria and was Principal Counsel at the Law Firm of Olukayode Akomolafe. Mr. Akomolafe has experience leading transformational human rights change and has championed efforts to identify and eliminate systemic barriers.

“Education and increasing our understanding and awareness of equity, diversity, and inclusion are essential to building stronger communities that celebrates each individual for their unique talents and gifts,” said Kayode Akomolafe, DCDSB Human Rights and Equity Advisor. “I am excited and honoured to join the Durham Catholic District School Board.”

As a member of the board’s Senior Administrative Team, Mr. Akomolafe will build, support, and maintain a culture of respect for human rights and equity within the DCDSB. His role will also identify and address systemic organizational and attitudinal barriers based on human rights and equity.

“I am excited to welcome Mr. Akomolafe to the Durham Catholic District School Board,” said Tracy Barill, Director of Education. “His expertise and extensive experience in Human Rights, Equity and Inclusion will be a great asset to our Senior Administrative Team as we continue to deepen our commitment to human rights knowledge and awareness that will lead to more equitable and inclusive learning environments for students and staff.”

“Mr. Akomolafe’s passion for building stronger communities focused on respect, human rights, diversity, inclusion and equity is a welcomed addition to the board’s leadership team,” said Morgan Ste. Marie, Chair of the Board. “DCDSB is committed to ensuring every individual is welcomed and feels safe in our Catholic learning environments.”

-30-

About the Durham Catholic District School Board

The Durham Catholic District School Board shares a sense of community among families, educators and parishes and is committed to integrating the teachings of the Gospel with quality educational programs that guide students in their journeys to meeting the Catholic Graduate Expectations. The Board currently serves approximately 21,000 students in Oshawa, Whitby, Ajax, Pickering, and the townships of Uxbridge, Scugog and Brock.

Media Contact:

DCDSB Communications
communications@dcdsb.ca

Letter to Parents and Guardians - April 1, 2020

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 14:00:00 GMT

April 1, 2020

Dear Parents and Guardians,

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your families at this time as we continue to receive direction regarding yesterday’s announcement from the Government of Ontario and Ministry of Education.

On Tuesday, March 31, 2020, the Premier of Ontario announced that the order for publicly funded schools to remain closed has been extended to the end of April 2020 with hope that students can return to the classroom on May 4, 2020. This extension is in response to the ongoing world-wide efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

In support of these efforts, the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) continues to enhance teacher training, contemplate provisions for students with special needs and develop learning tools and materials for the next phase of distance learning. As we work on an implementation plan, our goal is to have educators and students engaged in teacher-led learning from home beginning the week of April 6, 2020.

As teachers are preparing to facilitate teacher-led learning, here are some things that parents and guardians can do to ensure their children are ready to engage.

Access to Technology

Thank you to families for your cooperation in completing the Access to Technology Survey. The survey is now closed. For those who indicated that they require access to technology, staff will connect with you regarding next steps. If you were unable to complete the survey and require technology support, please contact your child’s teacher or call your local school and leave a message.

If your child has access to technology and the Internet, no action is required. Families with more than one DCDSB student in their household are not required to have a device for each individual child.

Edsby

Parents and guardians who are not currently connected to Edsby, an online communication portal, should set up an account and learn more about Edsby. Some teachers have been communicating with families using this tool during the closure, and we encourage everyone to become familiar with the platform.

Next Steps

We thank you for your patience and understanding as we develop an implementation plan that aligns with Ministry direction on distance learning. Teachers have been endeavouring to connect with their students via Edsby and student/parent email accounts. Please check to ensure that you/your child have been receiving their messages.

For more information, please see the attached letter to parents and guardians from the Minister of Education which outlines some of the guidelines and expectations for teacher-led distance learning.

Yours in faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

DCDSB Statement on The Discovery of Unmarked Graves at Residential School Sites

Fri, 25 Jun 2021 19:45:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians:

It is with profound sadness that we mourn the loss of children as the discovery of more unmarked graves at residential schools across the country are reported in the media. Our hearts are filled with grief, sorrow, and shame by the reminders of the residential school system and its lasting trauma on Indigenous people and communities.

Recognizing the truth is a step needed to achieve the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action and we are committed to this learning. We recognize that more work needs to be done and as a society, we need to educate ourselves on the tragic wrongs and unjust acts that have been and continue to be committed towards Indigenous people.

At the Durham Catholic District School Board, we walk the path together with our Indigenous Advisory Circle, Student Indigenous Advisory Circle, Indigenous partners, students and families and pledge to continue our learning in support of the truth and reconciliation. We hope through our collaborative work to support a positive future where the history, contribution, and excellence of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people is known and embraced by all.

At this time, we extend our support to assist those who are experiencing heightened emotion. Students who may be struggling are encouraged to reach out to a caring adult to arrange support through our social workers. Mental Health resources are available at:

Indigenous Education webpage;
Summer Mental Heath webpage; or
Call our Social Work Access Line at 905-576-6150 ext. 21021 - Monday to Thursdays from July 5 to August 31, 2021 between 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Note: This is not a crisis line and is not monitored 24/7

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

The Importance of Accurate Catholic Voter Lists

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 22:00:00 GMT

The upcoming year will be a busy one for Ontarian voters, with the Ontario Provincial Election and Municipal and School Board Elections happening just a few months apart.

The voice and vote of Catholic ratepayers is important to the future of our Catholic schools. In order to vote for Catholic trustees, our Catholic District School Board ratepayers must be registered as separate school supporters.

To make the process of verifying support easier for voters, the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) has created voterlookup.ca.

Through voterlookup.ca, all Ontario residents can check to ensure that their information is accurately reflected on MPAC's Preliminary List of Electors for the municipal and school board elections.

Visit voterlookup.ca to confirm information and follow the easy steps published on the website to make any necessary updates and corrections. Only separate school supporters can vote for Catholic trustees.

How to Become a Catholic School Board Trustee

Are you interested in becoming a Catholic School Board Trustee? Visit the Ontario Municipal and School Board Elections and the Ontario Catholic Trustees’ Association websites to learn how to become a Catholic School Board Trustee.

We also invite you to visit our board website at dcdsb.ca for additional information and expectations regarding the role of a Catholic School Board Trustee.

Durham Catholic District School Board Seeks Two Volunteer Community Members to Serve on the Audit Committee

Thu, 04 May 2023 18:00:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board is seeking two community members with financial expertise and business knowledge to serve on the Audit Committee for a 3-year term effective immediately.

The audit committee is comprised of three (3) Trustees and two (2) independent members drawn from the community at large. The primary role of the audit committee is to assist the board of trustees in fulfilling its duties related to governance and oversight. The duties of the audit committee fall under the following key areas: the financial reporting process, internal control framework, risk management practices, performance and function of the board’s internal and external auditors and the board’s compliance with its obligations under legislation. The Committee meets at least three times a year, plus ad hoc meetings as required. An orientation will be provided to all committee members to clarify roles and responsibilities of audit committees for the school board sector.

Candidate Eligibility

Applicants must have sufficient accounting, senior financial management or other relevant business experience to understand public sector accounting and auditing standards.
The applicant must not be a current employee or officer of the board or of any other district school board or school authority.
The applicant must not have a parent, child or spouse currently employed by the board.

Submission of Applications

Qualified candidates interested in serving on the audit committee are invited to submit a letter of interest and resume by 5:00 p.m. on June 12, 2023, to:

Marie Hammond
Chief Financial Officer
Durham Catholic District School Board
652 Rossland Road West
Oshawa, ON L1J 8M7
Email: marie.hammond@dcdsb.ca

Candidates who are short-listed may be requested to attend a private interview conducted by the audit committee’s selection committee. For information about the Durham Catholic District School Board, please visit www.dcdsb.ca.

Year of Love Poster Design Contest

Fri, 29 May 2020 16:45:00 GMT

Each year, in accordance with our board’s strategic plan, Discovery 2023, Renewing the Vision, we are tasked with developing an annual focus on a board-wide spiritual them in New Evangelization to be celebrated across the system. We are just completing our Year of Hope and will be moving into the 2020-21 spiritual theme, the Year of Love. This theme is based on the following scripture passage:

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than this.” ~Mark 12:30-31~

To assist us with messaging for this upcoming spiritual theme, we are inviting all students in Grades 7-12 to submit a poster design that will be used for communication across our system in the 2020-21 Year of Love.

Completed poster designs and their accompanying explanations are to be emailed to: tish.sheppard@dcdsb.ca and must be received by 4:00 pm on Friday, June 19, 2020.

A selection committee will notify the artists with the winning submission by June 25th, 2020. Attached is the criteria for this poster design contest. Thank you for your help with sharing this exciting opportunity with our Grade 7-12 students.

2020-21 Spiritual Theme, Year of Love, Poster Design Contest Eligibility

This poster design contest is open to all Grade 7-12 Durham Catholic District School Board students. Entries should be submitted on an individual basis. No shared work is permitted.

Entry Deadline Entries must be submitted to tish.sheppard@dcdsb.ca by 4:00 pm on Friday, June 19, 2020

Poster Requirements Objective

• Design a poster to represent our spiritual theme for the 2020-21 the Year of Love, based on the scripture passage noted above.

Poster designs should contain:

• The name of the spiritual theme for the year (Year of Love)

• The associated scripture passage, or part of it

• A small credit line with the student’s name is allowed Poster Size

• Posters must be vertical, measuring either 8 ½ X 11 or 11 X 17

Media

• Any mixed media suitable for the reproduction as a poster is allowed, including computer-generated graphics.

• Posters must be two-dimensional.

• All posters must be original art. No trademarked or copyrighted images or phrases should be used, with the exception of the associated scripture passage. Submission Format

• Digital designs should be submitted as a 300dpi- jpeg, PDF or ai (illustrator) file.

Poster Design Explanation

All submissions should include an explanation of your design, explaining the symbolism and why you made the artistic choices that you did. Below is the poster that was used for communication purposes by our school board throughout the focus on the spiritual theme of 2019-20, which was the Year of Hope. Beside the poster is the artist’s explanation of their design choices. It was designed by Brother Mickey, a Religious Brother in the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales.

See picture attached for sample of explanation.

The winning submission will be digitally reproduced to create the Year of Love promotional materials.

April 20 - Social Networking Safety - Who is in control? You or your iPad?

Mon, 20 Mar 2017 16:00:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) invites you to attend...

Social Networking Safety - Who is in control? You or your iPad?

Guest Speaker, Paul Davis will educate parents and students on Social Networking Safety - How you can be safe and smart online?

Date: Thursday, April 20, 2017
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School (auditorium)
1375 Harwood Ave North, Ajax

Registration

Who should register? Parents with their children aged 13+
Register online at Eventbrite.ca for free in person tickets.
Free to attend - Child minding and refreshments provided.

DCDSB 2024-2025 Year-End Message

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Dear Families,

As the 2024-2025 school year comes to a close, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to our students, staff, families, parish and community partners for your unwavering support and collaboration. Over the past year we have come together as a Catholic learning community to embrace and celebrate our spiritual theme, Living in Hope. The virtue of hope calls us into a relationship of faith and trust in God, and into a loving relationship with one another. Let us continue to walk in hope together, supporting one another in our spiritual growth and in our commitment to living out the Gospel values.

This year has been filled with joy, success and achievement – a testament to the shared commitment and collective efforts of all who support the excellence within our schools. As the academic year draws to a close, we invite you to look back at highlights from our programming and initiatives in the 2024-2025 school year, including:

We have created a year-end video message to our Durham Catholic learning community that features a compilation of these highlights and more. Please click here to view the year-end video message.

On behalf of the Durham Catholic District School Board, we extend sincere congratulations and best wishes to all our graduates. As you embark on the next stage of your journey, we hope you carry the knowledge, experiences, and meaningful relationships you have built during your time at the DCDSB with you.

We look forward to welcoming students back when regular programming resumes on Tuesday, September 2, 2025. In the meantime, we wish all members of our Durham Catholic learning community a safe, restful, and joyful summer.

Yours in hope and faith,

Monique Forster Gerard Winn
Chair of the Board Director of Education

Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee is hosting Math Caf�s for Parents

Wed, 24 Oct 2018 22:00:00 GMT

Come and learn to love Math at the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee's (DCPIC) Math Café for Parents. We are hosting four hands-on workshops that will allow parents to learn some tried and tested strategies that you can use to support your children's mathematical progress at home. Durham Catholic District School Board's Mathematics Consultants, Mike Jacobs and Christine Corsco will lead the sessions geared to elementary students - Kindergarten to Grade 8.

Pre-registration is required as seating is limited. Child minding is available - sign up as part of the registration process.

If you require accessibility related accommodations to attend this event or need assistance with the registration process, please contact lori.jones@dcdsb.ca.

Upcoming sessions

We are offering the following sessions:

Focusing on the Fundamentals: What they are and how we can help as parents
Date: Tuesday, November 13, 2018
Time: 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Location: St. Mary Catholic Secondary School, 1918 Whites Road, Pickering
Click here to register.
Focusing on Fractions: More than just pizza and butterflies
Date: Tuesday, January 15, 2019
Time: 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Location: Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School, 1375 Harwood Ave., N., AJax
Click here to register.
Focusing on Spatial Reasoning: More than just triangles and squares
Date: Tuesday, March 19, 2019
Time: 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Location: All Saints Catholic Secondary School, 3001 Country Lane, Whitby
Click here to register.
Focusing on Problem Solving: More than just word problems
   Date: Tuesday, May 14, 2019
   Time: 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
   Location: Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School, 700 Stevenson Road North, Oshawa
   Click here to register.

All DCDSB Schools Closed and School Buses Cancelled All Zones - Jan. 18, 2022

Tue, 18 Jan 2022 11:15:00 GMT

January 18, 2022

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The health and safety of Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) students is our highest priority. All DCDSB schools are closed today due to insufficient snow removal across several parts of the region, and all DSTS busses have been cancelled.

Secondary students will continue with online classes today.

There will be no live online classes for elementary students (including Durham Virtual Elementary School students). Students/families should check Edsby for updates and asynchronous materials that will be posted online for those who wish to access them. Families are also reminded of the materials and resources accessible through TVO Learn?and?TFO?IDÉLLO, apprendre à la maison, which provide supports for students by accessing additional educational resources developed by Ontario certified teachers.?

Thank you for your continued patience and understanding as we monitored the roads in hopes that they would be clear this morning. We realize that this is another disruption during the ongoing pandemic. However, the snowfall experienced yesterday has made it unsafe for many students and staff to return in-school today.

With the arrival of winter weather, we ask that you continue to check dsts.on.ca for school bus cancellations and delays and monitor your school’s website and social media for regular updates and information.

Yours in faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

Welding Workshop for Grade 8 Girls

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 18:30:00 GMT

Thanks to generous funding from the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program, the Welding Workshop is being offered free of charge.

There are two sessions currently scheduled at two different school locations. Each session has six student spaces available per location. Please note that students and their family member must be able to attend all dates in each session to register. Participants must also wear long pants and closed-toe shoes.

October Session:

Locations:

Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School (1020 Dryden Blvd, Whitby)
St. Mary Catholic Secondary School (1918 Whites Road, Pickering)

Time:

5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Dates:

Wednesday, October 16, 2024
Wednesday, October 23, 2024
Wednesday, October 30, 2024

November Session:

Location:

Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School (1020 Dryden Blvd, Whitby)
St. Mary Catholic Secondary School (1918 Whites Road, Pickering)

Time:

5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Dates:

Wednesday, November 6, 2024
Wednesday, November 13, 2024
Wednesday, November 20, 2024

To register, please complete the online form, which will remain open until Thursday, October 3. Spots are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, and a family member is required to attend all three sessions with their student.

Please contact Jason Cannon, DCDSB Pathways Coordinator, if you have any questions.

Renewing the Promise - Join the Conversation

Wed, 26 Apr 2017 14:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The Institute for Catholic Education (ICE) together with Catholic School Boards across Ontario want to hear from you about Catholic education. ICE has launched Renewing the Promise: Exploring the Critical Role of Catholic Education in Contemporary Society to gather feedback and engage parents and guardians in an online dialogue.

Your input about Catholic education in Ontario – the way it fulfills its mandate as well as the challenges and opportunities of the present moment – will help to guide us for the future.

You can offer your ideas and input on-line through Thought Exchange. Login to: http://signup.thotex.com/iceont/Pyv to participate. We have added a Renewing the Promise banner with the above link on our Board and schools’ websites.

Thought Exchange provides background information and asks you to answer three open-ended questions anonymously. When the survey closes on May 19, 2017 responses will be sorted into themes. You will then be invited to look at emerging themes and prioritize them, locally and provincially during the “Star” phase of process.

To learn more, we are inviting all interested parents, guardians, partners in Catholic education and the public to attend an information session on:

Wednesday, May 10, 2017
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Pope Francis Centre, 652 Rossland Road West, Oshawa

During this meeting, we will review background information on Renewing the Promise and provide you with the three questions that Thought Exchange will ask you to complete.

Your ideas will provide important input for a gathering of the Catholic community later in the year on the theme of Renewing the Promise.

When the process is completed, results and analysis will be made available in September or October and shared during Catholic Education Week in 2018. Join the conservation on the future of Catholic Education.

Yours in faith,

John Rinella Anne O’Brien
Chair, Board of Trustees Director of Education

DCDSB News: August 2022

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 20:15:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Our August 2022 edition of the DCDSB News is now available! Please click here to view the newsletter.

This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what's happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

Message from the Chair of the Board and Director of Education: Welcome to the 2022-2023 School Year.
DCDSB Updates: 2022-2023 School Year Calendars; Staggered Start Dates for Junior Kindergarten/Year 1 Kindergarten and Secondary Students; COVID-19 Updates; and School Transportation Information.
Faith: 2022-2023 Spiritual Theme: Listening With the Ear of the Heart.
Summer Learning: DCDSB STEM Camp; and Welding Camp at Msgr. Paul Dwyer Catholic High School.
Mental Health and Well-Being: School Mental Health Ontario – How to Support a Mentally Healthy Back to School for Your Child.
Continuing Education: Register for DCDSB’s Continuing Education Programs.
Upcoming Events, Recognition Days and more.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

DCDSB Black Excellence Newsletter (May 2024)

Mon, 27 May 2024 13:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

We are pleased to be sharing our third and final Black Excellence newsletter for the 2023-2024 school year, with information, resources, and events that may be of interest to Black students and families at the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB).

Register Now for CABS Multi-Sport Summer Camp
DCDSB's Coach/Advocates for Black Students (CABS), together with Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Educaton Centre, presents the Multi-Sport Camp for DCDSB students who have completed Grade 6, 7, 8 or 9. Students will experience a fun, hands-on camp with a focus on strengthening literacy and numeracy skills. The camp is facilitated by Grade 11/12 DCDSB students, Durham Catholic District School Board teachers, and Morlan Washington, Coach/Advocate for Black Students.

Students in the Multi-Sport program will participate in a variety of recreational activities aimed at building leadership skills, fitness skills, peer relationship skills and community building. Programming will focus on the development of the whole student, focusing on physical health. Through various games and activities, students will work on building their literacy and numeracy skills.

Location: Archbishop Denis O'Connor Catholic High School (80 Mandrake St., Ajax)
Time: 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Dates:

Session 1: July 15 - July 19
Session 2: July 22 - July 26
Session 3: July 29 - August 2
Session 4: August 6 – 9

Cost: Free!

Registration is on a first-come, first-serve basis. For further details and to register, please visit our website.

DCDSB Anti-Black Racism and Black Excellence Advisory Committee Announces New Vice-Chair
On May 22, the Anti-Black Racism and Black Excellence Advisory Committee held an election for the position of Vice-Chair of the committee. Congratulations to Lateasha Chevers on your election! Lateasha will serve as Vice-Chair for a two-year term. To learn more about the Anti-Black Racism and Black Excellence Advisory Committee, please visit our website.

Deconstructing Anti-Black Racism – Grade 12 Course
Durham Catholic District School Board is pleased to offer the Deconstructing Anti-Black Racism (IDC4U) course to Grade 12 students.

This course examines and deconstructs the complex nature of anti-Black racism in Canada, and within the broader North American context, through the study of historical oppression, via overt and covert means, as well as the political and social theories around Blackness. DCDSB students that are currently enrolled in the course share what they learned and experienced while taking the Deconstructing Anti-Black (IDC4U) course. Watch the video here.

To learn more or to register your child for the Deconstructing Anti-Black Racism course, please speak with your child’s secondary school Guidance department.

Career Panel and Drumming Circle at Durham Catholic District School Board
On Monday, March 4, 2024, Black students in Grades 9-12 were invited to a career panel and drumming circle at the Pope Francis Centre. This event was hosted in partnership with the Durham Catholic District School Board and e-CAMP MENTORing through the InterGenerational Hub Project. Students listened to panelists as they shared their career journeys, provided mentorship and offered insight into their future careers.

Thank you to all of the students, staff and community partners for participating and making this event possible. Watch the video here.

Grade 7-9 Students Participate in Ubuntu Virtual Engagement Session
On Thursday, March 21, 2024, approximately 520 Grade 7-9 students across DCDSB participated in the first session of Created in the Image of God: I Am Because We Are (Ubuntu). Ubuntu is a virtual engagement series led by Tanika Riley with guest, Matthew Jones, in collaboration with a board planning team. The first session was focused on self-awareness, and it took a closer look at personal beliefs, labels, and personal identities such as race, culture, stereotypes, talent, and skills, and how our beliefs can be helpful or harmful.

This engagement series consisted of three virtual engagement sessions and one culminating in-person event on Thursday, May 23, 2024, where students took part in a special sharing circle and showcased their reflective expressions through poetry, rap, journal reflections and visual art.

Financial Supports, Scholarships and Bursaries for Post-Secondary Pathways
We invite you to visit the DCDSB’s Financial Supports & Scholarships webpage for a list of financial supports to help with the funding of post-secondary programs and pathways.

We offer these resources and links as a potential starting point to help support students and families as they transition to post-secondary education.

The Giller Foundation and Mantella Corporation have teamed up to create the Giller Mantella Scholarship. The scholarship is for Black, Indigenous and racialized students across Canada graduating high school and interested in continued education in creative writing and literature. The scholarship will award $10,000 to three deserving recipients each year to further their education. To learn more please visit the Scotiabank Giller Prize website.

Thank you for your continued partnership. We hope that you have found the Black Excellence newsletters to be useful to keep you informed over the past school year and welcome any feedback you might have. Please feel free to contact us at Equity@dcdsb.ca if you have any comments or questions.

We wish you and your family all the best as we enter the final weeks of the 2023-2024 school year.

Sincerely,

Katharine Stevenson Kayode Akomolafe
Superintendent of Education Human Rights and Equity Advisor

January's Issue of Celebrating Student Success Newsletter

Tue, 17 Jan 2017 17:15:00 GMT

Read the latest issue of our Celebrating Student Success newsletter.

This issue features articles on:

Year of Community – Students Given Opportunities to Grow and Shine as Part of Archbishop Denis O’Connor Catholic High School’s Community;
Tips for Dealing with Exam Stress;
St. Mary Catholic Secondary School’s Core French Students enhance their Conversational French;
Life Skills We All Could Use;
Increasing Student Engagement in French as a Second Language Learning;
Video Submissions to Ontario’s Best French Class Contest;
Durham Catholic SHSM Students Participate in Innovation, Creativity and Entrepreneurship Program;
Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School Students discover Art and Culture during Visit to Madawaska Valley;
Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School Graduate Experiences Success in the Workplace; and
Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School Student receives Multiple Acceptance Offers to U.K. Law Schools.

Stay connected and sign up to receive the newsletter directly in your inbox.

DCDSB Elementary Summer School Programs

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 14:00:00 GMT

Elementary Summer School Programs

Registration will open for the following summer school programs at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, March 25, 2024:

Literacy and Numeracy Camps for Grades 6, 7 & 8
In-person camps are offered for students who are completing Grades 6, 7 & 8. Students will develop their literacy and numeracy skills through engaging and fun hands-on experiences. Camp descriptions, location and registration details are available for each camp:

Literacy and Math including French Immersion for Grades 6, 7, & 8 - Virtual

Session 1: July 2 – 12
Session 2: July 15 - 26

Registrations are due by June 21, 2024.

Elementary International Languages Program

Session 1: July 2 – July 26
Session 2: July 29 – August 16

We offer free summer International and Heritage Language classes for elementary students currently registered in JK to Grade 8.

French for Kindergarten to Grade 3

Session 1: July 2 – July 26
Session 2: July 29 – August 16

Registration is now open for the following summer school programs:

Reach Ahead High School Credit

Session 1: July 3 – 26
Session 2: July 29 to August 22

Reach Ahead High School credit summer courses are available for current Grade 8 students who will be attending a DCDSB secondary school in September.

Registrations are due by June 14, 2024.

Head Start Program (August 19 - 22)

Interested parents and students are asked to complete the online form here: Head Start Program Registration

Registrations are due by June 28, 2024.

If a student registers for a Reach Ahead High School Credit (July 3 – 26), they are not able to register for a non-credit program during that time.

If you have any questions about the non-credit literacy/numeracy programs or Head Start, please contact cont.ed@dcdsb.ca or call (905) 683-7713.

For questions about the Reach Ahead High School Credit Program, please contact credit.reg@dcdsb.ca or call (905) 438-0570.

All summer school information can be found on the website www.con-ed.ca.

Thank you for your interest in summer school. We look forward to supporting your child’s education.

Sincerely,
Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre

Celebrating Advent

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 19:00:00 GMT

The Advent season has arrived and as a Catholic community our schools and offices are alive with hope, love, joy and peace. Students and staff are busy decorating their classrooms, offices and homes to brighten their spaces for Christmas. Advent is a time for reflection, prayer and acts of charity as we prepare our hearts and minds for the birth of Jesus Christ.

We invite you to follow our Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee on Twitter @DCPIC and Facebook as they share a daily Advent activity that you can do as a class or family to spread joy and love this Christmas. It’s important to spread and share the joy of Advent and therefore we invite you to share your activities with us via social media #DCDSBFaith and #Advent.

The Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee have also pulled together some crafts and activities such as making an Advent wreath or Jesse tree at home. You can find these ideas at https://www.dcpic.ca/en/news-and-events/advent-activities.aspx.

Our schools and parishes are also participating in a number of initiatives to help others in their local communities. A number of schools are collecting gift cards to help make Christmas special for anyone in need of assistance.

Hopefully, these suggestions will help you and your family to celebrate Advent in a new and profound way this year. Wishing everyone a joyous Advent and Merry Christmas!

December 10 is Human Rights Day

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 17:00:00 GMT

With the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, the quest to build an equitable, just, inclusive, and discrimination-free society formally became a global effort. Although much has been done towards realizing the objectives of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, more work needs to be done. The 74th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights will be celebrated on December 10, 2022. This year's theme is "Dignity, Freedom and Justice for All".

Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) recognizes that upholding the dignity of all persons is our collective legal, moral, and professional obligation. This is also consistent with Catholic Social Teaching, DCDSB Anti-Racism Policy (PO200), the Ontario Human Rights Code, and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

Continuing to identify and eliminate discriminatory practices, systemic barriers and biases from our schools, is the collective responsibility of students, staff, administrators, trustees and families. This year’s Human Rights Day presents every member of the DCDSB community with a call to re-commit to increasing self-awareness and engaging in anti-racism and anti-discrimination learning towards creating spaces where all persons are seen, heard, respected and supported to succeed as fully contributing members of the community.

DCDSB efforts to deepen equity, diversity and inclusion across the Board include, but are not limited to:

Introduction of the new culturally relevant and responsive courses, including Grade 11 compulsory English course, Understanding Contemporary First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Voices, Grade 12 course Contemporary Indigenous Issues and Perspectives in a Global Context, and Grade 12 course Deconstructing Anti-Black Racism in the Canadian and North American Context.
Establishment of an Anti-Black Racism and Black Excellence Advisory Committee.
Appointment of a Human Rights and Equity Advisor to the Senior Administrative Team.
Approval of Anti-Racism Policy (PO-200).
Addition of key positions such as Coach/Advocates for Black Students and an Equity Consultant.
Initiation of a comprehensive special education review through the LEAD (Leading Equitable & Accessible Delivery) Process in collaboration with the Abilities Centre.
Recognition of June as Pride month through the raising of the Rainbow Flag.
Enhancing and increasing availability of resources and professional development to better support 2SLGBTQ+ students in our Catholic learning community.
Establishment of Equity Action Plan for focused professional development for leaders and staff.

DCDSB will continue to have open discussions about human rights, anti-racism and anti-discrimination in our schools and workplaces. We are also committed to building capacity to address code-based complaints resolution through ongoing human rights and equity training for all staff, school administrators, senior administration and Trustees.

On December 10, and every day, we will continue to focus on advancing human rights.

DCDSB News: November 2022

Tue, 08 Nov 2022 18:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The November 2022 issue of the DCDSB News is now available! Please click here to view the newsletter.

This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what's happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

Remembrance Day Message: Lest We Forget.
Faith: Spiritual Theme - Listening With The Ear of the Heart and Archbishop Denis O'Connor Students Create Artwork for 'When Faith Meets Pedagogy' Conference.
Student Spotlight: Fire Chief of the Day Winner.
Indigenous Education: Indigenous Veterans Day and Treaties Recognition Week.
Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation: Foundation Launches Tributes and Legacy Funds and Christmas Auction Benefitting the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation.
DCDSB Updates: Collective Bargaining; Inclement Weather; Ventilation Measures Report; Grade 1 French Immersion Registration Opens on November 29, 2022; Regional Art & Media Program; and Early Literacy Skills – Episode 1.
DCDSB Students: Student Voice: Co-operative Education Placement and DCDSB Students Participate in Science, Technology and Trades Conference at Durham College.
Mental Health and Well-Being: DCDSB Mental Health & Well-Being Webpage.
Adult and Continuing Education: Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre Graduation.
Upcoming Events, recognition days and more.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Now Open - Kindergarten Registration for 2021-2022

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 14:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Junior Kindergarten registration is now open at the Durham Catholic District School Board. You are invited to register your child for Kindergarten at one of our Durham Catholic schools across the region. Your child must be turning four years of age by December 31, 2021 in order to enrol. Online registration will take place January 11 – 22, 2021. Visit www.dcdsb.ca to register. For questions, email admissions@dcdsb.ca.

Students who are eligible to attend Kindergarten Year One in September 2021 must register online and have a designated home school determined by home address. In accordance with the Durham Catholic District School Board Policy PO428 – Exception to School Attendance Areas, parents and guardians may have a need or legitimate reason for wanting a child to attend a school other than their designated home school. In such cases the online registration will be directed to the school they have requested.

Admission to an out of boundary school is subject to approval by the designated home school principal and the out of boundary school principal. The application will initially be processed by the home school and then processed by the requested school. Applications will be approved in accordance with Board Policy and where space permits. Please note that the following schools are currently identified as having limited available space for 2021-2022:

Ajax

St. James Catholic School
St. Patrick Catholic School
St. Josephine Bakhita Catholic School

Oshawa

St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School
St. Christopher Catholic School

Whitby

St. John the Evangelist Catholic School
St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic School

As such, approval for exception to school attendance areas at these schools will be limited. Please note that transportation will not be provided for an out of boundary school.

If you have questions, please contact the school and leave a message.

Tutoring Available to Students

Mon, 02 May 2022 20:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The Ministry of Education has released a comprehensive plan to support learning in language and math for students in Ontario. Part of this plan includes tutoring for students. Durham Catholic District School Board, (DCDSB), is partnering with recognized companies to provide tutoring to students.

Important Information

DCDSB students currently in Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 are eligible to participate in this program.
DCDSB will pay up to $500 per student for tutoring.
Funding is only available through tutoring companies on approved list below.
Students can only access tutoring at one company.
DCDSB will reimburse tutoring companies directly.
Tutoring sessions must be completed by August 31, 2022.
Tutoring funds are limited and will be accessed on a first come, first serve basis.

To arrange for a consultation and initiate services, contact one of tutoring companies on the approved list below. The company will require your child’s name, school, and OEN number found on their report card.

The tutoring companies listed below offer a variety of learning options from face to face to on-line instruction.

Approved tutoring companies are hyperlinked below:

Name of Tutoring Company	Phone Number
Sylvan Learning – Whitby	905-725-6904
Tutor Doctor	1-888-718-8832
Scholar’s Education Centre – Ajax	289-301-0726
Scholar’s Education Centre – Whitby	647-371-1657
Scholar’s Education Centre – Pickering	905-492-8008
Tutor Bright	416-853-1200
Kumon (Oshawa)	289-240-5757
Oxford Tutoring (Whitby)	289-274-3356
Step Up Academy of Learning	416-879-1987
Academy for Math and English (Whitby)	289-278-7100
Prep Academy Tutors of Durham	1-888-995-7382
Ajax Academy of English and Math	905-427-2263

Any questions can be directed to tutoring@dcdsb.ca or contact 905-576-6150 ext. 22100.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

January's Student Success Newsletter

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 18:30:00 GMT

Read the latest issue of the Student Success Newsletter. This month’s issue features stories on:

Experiential Learning: Experiential Learning, Skilled Trades and STEM at All Saints Catholic Secondary School

Exploring Pathways: Build a Career you Wouldn't Trade - Discover OYAP

Student Voice: St. Bernard Catholic School ESL Students share Advice on Learning English
Students Reflect on Completing their Cooperative Education during a Pandemic
Adult and Continuing Education: A Diamond Win for Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre
Upcoming Events: Important Dates
February 9 - Post-Secondary Indigenous Pathways Discussion
February 9 - Dream Big Career Discovery Expo
February 10 - Edsby Parent Workshop

Deadline Extended - Indigenous Students in Grades 7-12 encouraged to apply to the Indigenous Student Education Advisory Circle

Stay connected and sign up to receive the newsletter directly in your inbox.

Durham Catholic District School Board Announces the 2021 Distinguished Catholic Alumni Award Recipients

Thu, 06 May 2021 13:00:00 GMT

May 6, 2021

In recognition of Catholic Education and Children’s Mental Health Week, the Durham Catholic District School Board is honoured to announce the 2021 Distinguished Catholic Alumni Award recipients. The Distinguished Catholic Alumni award recognizes former Durham Catholic students who have answered the call to serve their communities through the pursuit of personal excellence. Their success stories exemplify the values, attitudes and characteristics of the Ontario Catholic Graduate Expectations.

“This year’s recipients are exemplary role models who remind us that every day is an opportunity to make a difference,” said Morgan Ste. Marie, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “Your incredible achievements provide hope and inspiration to future generations and speaks volumes to the value of Catholic education here in Durham Region.”

“As a board we are honoured to recognize our award winners who exemplify the goals of Catholic education in their chosen pathways,” said Tracy Barill, Director of Education. “It is our pleasure to award this distinction to the recipients for their commitment to excellence, leadership and life-long learning.”

The 2021 Distinguished Catholic Alumni Award recipients are:

Rev. Father Alexander Laschuk, Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School,
Ariana Sanchex Barbosa, Archbishop Denis O’Connor Catholic High School,
Dillon Mendes, St. Mary Catholic Secondary School,
Fallon Hayes, Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School,
Jordan Samaroo, All Saints Catholic Secondary School,
Meaghan Addante, Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School, and
Michael Cole, Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School.

Click here for information on the Distinguished Catholic Alumni Recipients.

Traditionally, the board recognizes the award winners at its annual Children’s Foundation Gala and looks forward to honouring the winners in person at a future event, when it is safe.

-30-

Students at St. Joseph Catholic School in Oshawa Assembly Love Boxes

Mon, 26 Mar 2018 15:45:00 GMT

As a way to bring our faith into action during this year of service, our school, St. Joseph Catholic School Oshawa, decided to support a cause called "The Super Sophia Project" by contributing to the creation of "Love Boxes". Love Boxes are gift boxes that help children to cope when they are in the hospital. Each classroom committed to one specific child in need of support.

On Friday, students and staff had the pleasure of hearing Sophia and her mother speak during a school assembly.

Thank You for Participating in Giving Tuesday in Support of the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 14:00:00 GMT

On December 3, we celebrated Giving Tuesday in support of the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation. DCDSB families donated through School Cash Online and through the Foundation website, and together, we raised a total of $12,107!

Your generous donations will help ensure that DCDSB students have access to essential resources like food, clothing, shelter, and more. The funds raised will directly support students, enabling them to fully participate in school activities such as field trips and extracurricular programs. Funds will also help to provide emergency support for families in need.

Thank you for your generosity and continued support in making a lasting difference in the lives of our students!

To learn more about the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation, or to make a donation, please visit our website: www.durhamcatholicfoundation.ca.

Welcome to the 2024-2025 School Year

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 14:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

Welcome to the 2024-2025 school year! I extend a heartfelt greeting to students and families who are new to the Durham Catholic District School Board, and a warm ‘welcome back’ to returning students and families.

I am excited to begin this year as the new Director of Education for the DCDSB and look forward to connecting with students and families in this new role. I am dedicated to the continued growth, collaboration and innovation of the board.

The beginning of each school year brings with it a sense of renewed energy and excitement. We are eager to build upon the successes of last year’s Student Achievement Plan, and to continue to build on the priorities outlined in our multi-year strategic plan, Inspire 2026, to support faith and well-being, advance human rights, equity, and Indigenous Education, and improve student learning.

This year, our spiritual theme is Living in Hope which stems from Pope Francis’ announcement that 2025 will be a Jubilee Year, a spiritual tradition celebrated in the Church every 25 years. Pope Francis has selected “Pilgrims of Hope” as the motto of the Jubilee. Inspired by this significant moment, the DCDSB community will be guided by the spiritual theme of Living in Hope during the 2024-2025 school year. I encourage you to learn more about our spiritual theme and poster design by visiting our website. We are proud to listen, learn and live in faith together at DCDSB, and hope that this spiritual theme will serve as a beacon to guide us as a Catholic learning community.

Parents, guardians, and caregivers are critical to student success. I encourage you to create an Edsby account, subscribe to the news and calendar sections on your school’s website, and follow the board on social media to keep up-to-date on what’s happening with your child’s education. Through a strong collaboration between home, school and parish, we can collectively work towards our mission to be an inclusive Catholic learning community that inspires every student to achieve their full potential through faith and education. The Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee and your school’s Catholic School Council also provide great opportunities to engage with your school community through monthly meetings, events and activities.

I look forward to seeing students and families when school begins next week on Tuesday, September 3. I wish everyone in our Durham Catholic learning community a successful start to the school year.

Yours in hope and faith,

Gerard Winn
Director of Education

Durham Catholic District School Board Celebrates Catholic Education Week and Child and Youth Mental Health Week from May 2-6, 2022

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 13:30:00 GMT

The theme of this year’s Catholic Education Week is Catholic Education: Rebuild, Restore, Renew Together. “As we look with hopeful hearts toward an end to the pandemic, we embrace the call to renew, restore and rebuild our Catholic learning community,” said Tracy Barill, DCDSB Director of Education. “Our ongoing recognition and commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action and to walking the path together with Indigenous communities is reflected in the theme of Catholic Education Week, as is our commitment to Equity and Inclusion.” Director Barill added, “During Catholic Education Week and Child and Youth Mental Health Week, we want to encourage a focus on empathy. As followers of Christ, it is our responsibility to extend empathy, kindness and understanding to all.”

To recognize the significance of this week, the DCDSB is launching an interactive webpage for students and families. This webpage includes mental health and well-being activities, books related to mental health, well-being and faith, along with daily prayers and family faith-centered activities.

We are looking forward to celebrating these important weeks with special activities at all grade levels, including prayer celebrations and service activities. DCDSB encourages students, families and community members to visit the Catholic Education Week and Child and Youth Mental Health Week webpage for resources, book lists, and more.

We will also be celebrating the following important events during the week:

Monday, May 2, 2022:
- System-Wide Mass and Distinguished Catholic Educator and Leader Awards Celebration at St. Bernadette Parish (Ajax) at 4:30 p.m.
Tuesday, May 3, 2022:
- Students and staff are encouraged to wear green to raise awareness for Child and Youth Mental Health Week.
Wednesday, May 4, 2022:
- His Eminence Cardinal Thomas Collins will join thousands of students across the province in the celebration of a special Catholic Education Week Massthat will be live streamed at 10:00 a.m. Please visit the St. Michael's Cathedral YouTube Page.
- DCDSB’s Multi-Year Strategic Planning Session at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom. This session is open to all members of the DCDSB community and will engage participants in providing input in the review of our Board Mission and the development of the new Multi-Year Strategic Plan. Please click here to access the virtual session. The session will be hosted by Morgan Ste. Marie, Chair of the Board of Trustees, and Tracy Barill, Director of Education.
Thursday, May 5, 2022:
- St. Anne Catholic School Official Opening and School Blessing at 1:00 p.m.
Friday, May 6, 2022:
- Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation Virtual Gala and Distinguished Catholic Alumni Award at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom. Tickets for the Virtual Gala are $35.00 and available at durhamcatholicfoundation.ca.

To learn more about the DCDSB’s related programs, supports and resources, please see the following webpages:

National Indigenous Languages Day at Durham Catholic District School Board

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 15:45:00 GMT

March 31 is National Indigenous Languages Day. To celebrate and honour Indigenous languages in Canada, DCDSB students and educators have been reflecting on the importance of language preservation.

In some DCDSB Kindergarten classrooms, students learned to say “Hello” in Anishinaabemowin. Students were taught the short song “Aanii Boozhoo” to help them remember the words in Anishinaabemowin, the language of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island.

Grade 11 students across various DCDSB secondary schools participated in a sound-based learning activity for Anishinaabemowin. They interacted with and deconstructed words to learn the Anishinaabemowin world view and that direct translations do not always apply. Students also reflected on the importance of language to a culture’s knowledge systems. This lesson was taught in the Understanding Contemporary First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Voices course, which focuses on contemporary Indigenous voices and artistic expressions in Canada.

Grade 7 and 8 students at Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic School created a language board to show their appreciation and respect for Indigenous languages. This display honours 14 Indigenous languages and is showcased in the front foyer of the school. The Grade 7 and 8 students also shared their own languages to celebrate and reflect on the unique and wonderful community at their school.

Thank you to all the classes that shared their passion and ongoing commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. The DCDSB remains dedicated to continuous learning and to walking the path together with Indigenous community partners. Learn more about Indigenous Education at DCDSB by visiting dcdsb.ca/IndigenousEducation.

Parent Information Sessions for Grade 1 French Immersion

Wed, 06 Nov 2019 13:30:00 GMT

Online registration for Grade 1 French Immersion for the 2020-2021 will be open from December 9, 2019 to January 17, 2020.

To learn more about the program, we encourage you to attend one of the upcoming parent information nights:

Monday, November 11, 2019
Time: 5:30 p.m.
Location: St. Joseph Catholic School, 25 Quaker Village Drive, Uxbridge, ON
Monday, November 25, 2019
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Location: St. Leo Catholic School, 120 Watford Street, Brooklin, ON
Thursday, November 28, 2918
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Location: St. Patrick Catholic School, 280 Delaney Drive, Ajax, ON

DCPIC Math Cafe - Live Stream

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 22:00:00 GMT

You can join us virtually in real time for the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee's (DCPIC) Math Cafe on Tuesday, November 13 at 7:00 p.m. or see the content later as a recording and view resources at dcpic.ca.

The Math Café will be live streamed on the link below: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXiPaQSmbihUdruQS77OfFA

DCDSB's Indigenous Education Newsletter - We Walk the Path Together

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 16:00:00 GMT

Next week (November 2-6, 2020) is Treaties Recognition Week, a time to observe and learn about treaties, treaty relationships and treaty rights that shape Ontario.

Learn more in the latest issue of the Durham Catholic District School Board's (DCDSB) Indigenous Education Newsletter – We Walk the Path Together. This issue features articles on:

A Look at the New Grade 11 English: Understanding Contemporary Indigenous Voices Course
Residential School Survivor, Mary Kelly speaks to Durham Catholic District School Board Staff
Student Indigenous Education Advisory Circle
Treaties Recognition Week
November 8 is Indigenous Veterans’ Day

2021-2022 Distinguished Catholic Volunteer Awards

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 13:30:00 GMT

Congratulations to the 2021-2022 Distinguished Catholic Volunteer Award recipients. We love our volunteers! Thank you to the dedicated volunteers who contribute to the success of our schools and committees each and every day.

We are honoured to present this year's recipients below.

Distinguished Catholic Volunteers for Ajax Schools:

Kelvin Biney, Archbishop Denis O'Connor Catholic High School;
Glenda Sajonas-Roopansingh, Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School;
Kelly DonPaul, St. André Bessette Catholic School;
Melanie Greco, St. Bernadette Catholic School;
Madeline Roberts, St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School;
Rachel Hickey, St. Francis de Sales Catholic School;
Vicky Miceli, St. James Catholic School;
Denise Samson, St. Josephine Bakhita Catholic School;
Jennifer Thompson, St. Jude Catholic School;
Josie Mullin, St. Patrick Catholic School;
Linda Sarang, St. Teresa of Calcutta Catholic School.

Distinguished Catholic Volunteers for Northern Schools (Beaverton, Port Perry, Uxbridge):

Marie Walsh, Good Shepherd Catholic School;
Colline Theodoru, Holy Family Catholic School;
Jennifer Tungatt, St. Joseph Catholic School Uxbridge.

Distinguished Catholic Volunteers for Oshawa Schools:

Katy Brennan, Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School;
Lorna Kettles, Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School;
Melanie Hodkinson, Monsignor Philip Coffey Catholic School;
Rose Ambra, St. Anne Catholic School;
Dawn Kotsopoulos, St. Christopher Catholic School;
Anne Fernando, St. Hedwig Catholic School;
Kathy McGhee, St. John XXIII Catholic School;
Katherine Pilgrim & Cynthia Loughran, St. John Bosco Catholic School;
Maryanne Fowler, St. Joseph Catholic School;
Brenda Giovis, St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School;
Jen Lee, St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School.
Mel Buddel, Sir Albert Love Catholic School.

Distinguished Catholic Volunteers for Pickering Schools:

Shelly McMurter, St. Mary Catholic Secondary School;
Rita Fajardo, Father Fenelon Catholic School;
Melissa Vanderputt, St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School;
Maria Calberry, St. Isaac Jogues Catholic School;
Carla Hipolito, St. Monica Catholic School;
Enobia Lewis, St. Wilfrid Catholic School.

Distinguished Catholic Volunteers for Whitby Schools:

Tes Loney, All Saints Catholic Secondary School;
Nicole Emanuel, Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School;
Christina Melick, St. Bridget Catholic School;
Nicole Sorichetti, St. John the Evangelist Catholic School;
Sharleen Hawco, St. John Paul II Catholic School;
Stacey Beck, St. Leo Catholic School;
Kay Di Vizio, St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic School;
David & Susan Honderich, St. Marquerite D'Youville;
Stephanie Woods, St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic School;
Elizabeth Pozderec, St. Matthew the Evangelist Catholic School;
Stefan Ionescu-Balaceanu, St. Paul Catholic School;
Crystal Arruda, St. Theresa Catholic School.

Distinguished Catholic Volunteer for Virtual School:

Carion Fenn, Durham Catholic Virtual Elementary School.

More information about the Distinguished Catholic Volunteer Awards can be found on the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee website.

December's Issue of Student Success Newsletter

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 16:15:00 GMT

Read the latest issue of the Student Success Newsletter. This month’s issue features stories on:

Faith: The Lantern Project at Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School
Advent– Come Lord Jesus
Sir Albert Love Catholic School Students Participate in DRPS’ Seniors Christmas Special
Experiential Learning: Experiential Learning at St. Isaac Jogues Catholic School
Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School Students Complete Operation Thank You
St. Leo Catholic School Creates an Outdoor Classroom
All Saints’ Regional Arts & Media Program Students CBC Music Class Challenge Submission
Coding for 21^st Century Learning Skills
St. Leo’s Virtual Comic Book Club
Life Skills Class at Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School Remember our Veterans
Exploring Pathways and Student Voice: Numeracy in the Workplace: Numeracy Reflections in Cooperative Education at St. Mary Catholic Secondary School
Calling all Indigenous Students in Grades 7-12 to join the Indigenous Student Education Advisory Circle
Upcoming Events: Are you Transitioning to High School in September 2021? Attend an Upcoming Information Session.
Free Virtual Métis Youth Iver Culture Camp

Stay connected and sign up to receive the newsletter directly in your inbox.

DCDSB News: February 2023

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 20:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The February 2023 issue of the DCDSB News is now available! Please click here to view the newsletter.

This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what's happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

Black History Month

Black Excellence, Celebration, History Lives Here
Durham Black History Month
Save the Date for Not Just Surviving: Centering Black Mental Health

Faith
- Listening With the Ear of the Heart - St. Bernadette Catholic School
- Accepting Nominations for the Distinguished Catholic Alumni Award
Indigenous Education

Student Indigenous Education Circle Visits Indigenous Ingenuity and Regalia Exhibit at the Ontario Science Centre
Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School Visits The Robert McLaughlin Gallery Indigenous Art Exhibit

DCDSB Updates

Kindergarten Registration is Now Open!
Durham Region Health Department Immunization Clinics
Inclement Weather
Reverend John Markle Home-School Communications Award
Early Literacy Skills: Episode 3

DCDSB Students

Student Spotlight - Emeka A.
Archbishop Denis O'Connor Catholic High School CAMH Session

Mental Health and Well-Being

How to Talk With Your Child About Mental Health

Adult and Continuing Education

Upcoming Event, Recognition Days and More.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Parents and Students invited to a Free Private Screening of Indigenous Movie

Mon, 15 Jan 2018 22:00:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board’s Indigenous Education Advisory Circle invites parents and students age 14+ to attend a private viewing of Indian Horse.

The movie follows the life of a Canadian First Nations boy, Saul Indian Horse, as he survives residential school and life amongst the racism of the 1970s. A talented hockey player, Saul must find his own path as he battles stereotypes and alcoholism.

Join us on
Saturday, January 20, 2018
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Location: Landmark Cinemas 24, 75 Consumer Drive, Whitby, ON

Pre-registration is required for this FREE event at https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/dcdsbs-indigenous-advisory-circle-presents-indian-horse-tickets-39874746440

DCDSB News - December 2023

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 20:30:00 GMT

The December 2023 DCDSB News is now available! This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what’s happening across the DCDSB.

This newsletter includes:

Advent Message

Share Your Thoughts On our Board Multi-Year Plan Implementation

Living in Faith:

Advent Resources
Coco’s Cocoa for Kids
DCPIC Advent Craft Night

Indigenous Education In Action:

Indigenous Education Highlights

DCDSB Updates:

2023-2024 Student Achievement Plan
Durham Catholic District School Board Trustees Elect Chair and Vice-Chair
French Immersion Registration Now Open
Equity Invitational Learning Series – Second Session
Inclement Weather Reminders

Student Spotlight – Kaiyah J. and Liam C.

DCDSB Students:

OYAP Level 1 Cook Program
Youth for Others Social Justice Day – A Secondary Student’s Perspective

Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation:

Giving Tuesday
Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation Gala

Continuing Education:

Open Doors to a Career in Child Care with Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre’s Child Care Assistant Training Program

Upcoming Events:

Recognition days and more

DCDSB 2023-2024 Year-End Message

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 15:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

As the end of the 2023-2024 school year draws near, I want to thank you for your continued partnership and collaboration in listening, learning, and living in faith together at the Durham Catholic District School Board. We have had many reasons to celebrate students, staff, families, parishes and community partners throughout the year, and are so proud of all in our Durham Catholic learning community.

After reflecting last year on what it means to “listen with the ear of the heart,” we were inspired once again by the words of Pope Francis for our 2023-2024 Spiritual Theme, Speaking with the Heart. Noted during his message for the 57th World Day of Social Communications, Pope Francis said, “it is the heart that spurred us to go, to see and to listen, and it is the heart that moves us towards an open and welcoming way of communicating.”

Throughout the year, we have been reflecting on the spiritual theme as a Catholic learning community, and what it means to communicate “according to God's style”, welcoming encounters with others as “heart speaks to heart.” We invite you to watch a compilation video that provides an overview of how we have been Speaking with the Heart throughout the 2023-2024 school year.

As the year draws to a close, I invite you to look back at some of the successes and new initiatives from this past year. Please see some of our highlights below:

On behalf of the DCDSB, I extend congratulations and best wishes to our graduates and retirees. I hope that you take all that you have learned, and the relationships you have made while with the board with you into the next chapter of your life.

As you may be aware, at the end of this school year, I will be retiring from Durham Catholic after 36 years of service in Catholic Education. I am grateful for the many, valued relationships formed with students, families and colleagues over the years. To be entrusted with leading the board as Director of Education has been a true honour and privilege. While I will miss daily involvement with the community, I am confident that the board will be in competent and compassionate hands under the leadership of the newly appointed Director of Education, Mr. Gerard Winn, the Board of Trustees and the Senior Administration Team.

Our central team, administrators and staff look forward to the return of students when regular programming resumes on Tuesday, September 3, 2024. I hope everyone in our Durham Catholic learning community has a safe and happy summer vacation.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

DCPIC Newsletter - Latest Issue Now Available

Mon, 24 Feb 2020 13:45:00 GMT

The latest issue of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee newsletter is now available. This issue features articles on:

A message from the Chair;
Highlights from DCPIC's Mental Health and Well-Being Conference;
A Lenten Calendar - an opportunity for your family to live the 40 Days of Lent;
Highlights from Black History Month activities in our Durham Catholic schools;
Register for safeTALK; and
Upcoming DCPIC Meeting Dates.

Read the Winter issue of the newsletter here.

Durham Catholic District School Board Welcomes New Trustees and Elects Chair and Vice-Chair for 2022-2023 School Year

Tue, 22 Nov 2022 19:15:00 GMT

On November 21, 2022, at its Inaugural Board Meeting, the following Trustees elect were commissioned by Father Keith Callaghan as Catholic School Trustees and officially sworn into office through the completion of their Declaration of Oath, overseen by the Director of Education, Tracy Barill:

For the Town of Ajax
Monique Forster and Marisa Hall

For the Townships of Brock, Scugog and Uxbridge
Richard Damianopoulos

For the City of Oshawa
Kim Beatty and Morgan Ste. Marie

For the City of Pickering
Jim McCafferty

For the Town of Whitby
Robert De Souza and Janelle Emanuel

Having confirmed that each member of the Board had made the declaration and taken the oath, Director Barill, declared the Board to be legally constituted and proceeded to open nominations for the position of Chair.

Monique Forster, Trustee for the Town of Ajax was acclaimed to the position of Chair of the Board.

"In the past thirty years, my desire to serve our Catholic community has only deepened. I welcome this opportunity in my role as Chair, to continue to work in the best interests of students, families, and staff; to ensure their voices are heard," said Chair Forster.

Morgan Ste. Marie, Trustee for the City of Oshawa was subsequently elected for the position of Vice-Chair.

Vice-Chair Ste. Marie thanked fellow trustees for their service. “I look forward to working with the new and returning trustees in the years ahead and strengthen relationships with families, community groups, employee groups and local and provincial elected officials.”

Tracy Barill, Director of Education extended words of welcome and congratulations on behalf of the Board’s Senior Administrative Team.

“Trustees are stewards of Catholic Education, representing our Catholic learning communities. I congratulate all members of our new Board of Trustees!” said Tracy Barill, Director of Education. “I particularly welcome the opportunity to work alongside Chair Forster and Vice-Chair Ste. Marie in their new roles. Their leadership experience and knowledge of our Catholic school system will be invaluable as the Board makes decisions that support the directions outlined in the our new, Inspire 2026 Strategic Plan launching in January 2023.”

Click here to view video of Commissioning.

-30-

Input into the 2018-2019 School Year Calendar

Wed, 31 Jan 2018 18:00:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board's School Year Calendar Committee is in the process of developing the calendar for the 2018/2019 school year.

We are looking for your input on the calendar. Please complete the brief survey (one question) which will assist the Committee in determining whether or not there will be a PA Day on Thursday, August 30, 2018 so that the Friday before the March Bbreak may be designated as a Board holiday.

The link will close on Friday February 9, 2018 at 4:00 p.m.

Durham Catholic Children's Foundation Gala

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

I am writing to you today to invite your participation in the 9^th Annual Durham Catholic Children’s’ Foundation Gala on May 11, 2023, at the Ajax Convention Center.

The Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation (DCCF) was formed in 2014 with a goal of ensuring students can attend school with the basic daily necessities of life provided. In partnership with the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) and its communities, DCCF contributes to supporting the most vulnerable children and families in Durham Region, bringing hope, resources and supports to enable them to reach their full potential.

Through annual fundraising events and donor contributions, DCCF has raised over $300,000 for our Direct Family Assistance program. These funds went directly to students and families in need through the purchase of food, clothing, medical necessities, transportation passes, gift cards and much more. In addition to our Direct Assistance Program, DCCF also raised $40,000 for our Emergency Support Fund which helped aid families that were faced with significant unexpected challenges. Finally, DCCF raised roughly $26,000 for our Bursary Program that directly supported students in our school communities pursuing a post-secondary pathway. This financial support has been crucial for our students and families in the DCDSB over the years, and we hope to continue being an agent of change for years to come.

Tickets are now on sale for our 9^th Annual Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation Gala, honouring Bishop Vincent Nguyen and our Distinguished Catholic Alumni. The keynote speaker is Aubrey Noronha, 2022 Durham Catholic Distinguished Alumni Award Winner. Guests who purchase tickets by April 14, 2023, will be entered into a draw to win a pair of Apple AirPods (3^rd generation). To purchase tickets or to learn about sponsorship opportunities, please visit durhamcatholicfoundation.ca/gala

All proceeds from the gala will go to the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation which will directly support students in our Catholic school communities.

To learn more about the DCCF, please visit our website at durhamcatholicfoundation.ca.

Thank you in advance for your support of our Durham Catholic students and community.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

DCDSB Supervised Alternative Learning Committee Seeks Community Representative

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 13:00:00 GMT

The Supervised Alternative Learning Committee (SAL) of the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is seeking a community representative to join the team for a one-year term (with a possibility of renewing the term for one more year).

SAL is a regulatory committee of DCDSB comprised of a Board Trustee and representatives of local community associations. The committee’s goal is to further the interests and well-being of students who are most at risk and disengaged from the school, providing them with opportunities to stay connected to learning and re-engage more fully at a later date.

The community representative is a volunteer member of the SAL Committee who represents the voice of the larger Durham Catholic community. The successful candidate is not required to be a parent in the Durham Catholic school system or a member of any of the community agencies represented on the committee.

Meetings take place monthly during the school day.

Interested applicants should submit a letter of interest by April 8, 2024, to Lori.Jones@dcdsb.ca.

March Issue of Celebrating Student Success Newsletter

Thu, 05 Mar 2020 19:45:00 GMT

March’s issue of the Celebrating Student Success newsletter is now available. This issue features articles on:

Experiential Learning – Celebrating Black History Month;
St. Joseph Catholic School Students Combine their Love of Dance and Coding;
Students celebrate I Read Canadian Day;
Students Discover Sewing at St. John the Evangelist Catholic School;
Students celebrate Heritage Day at St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic School;
Expanding Pathways – Centre for Success Program helps Students Achieve their Ontario Secondary School Diploma;
SHSM Program offers Students Real-World Experiences in a Variety of Economic Sectors;
Be Proud of What you Build! Find a Career You Wouldn’t Trade;
St. Mary’s SHSM Students Attend a Career Presentation at Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment Ltd.;

Student Voice – Cheering on All Saints Catholic Secondary School’s Kalista Wilson;
Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School Student shares Cooperative Education Reflection;
Student Achievement – Gold Record Awards for St. Joseph Catholic School and All Saints Catholic Secondary School;

Upcoming Event – March 9 to 27, 2020 – Register for the DELF French Proficiency Exam.

Stay connected and sign up to receive the newsletter directly in your inbox.

March 2021 - DCDSB's Celebrating Student Success Newsletter

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 17:30:00 GMT

Read the latest issue of the Student Success Newsletter. This month’s issue features stories on:

Expanding Pathways: Build a Dream Event; “Train the Trainer” Workshop.
Experiential Learning: My Experience at Canadian Tire Service; Designing My Future; Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School's Outreach Team Raises $5,000 for the Refuge Youth Outreach Centre.
Indigenous Education: Students from Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School Involved in OYAP Partnership to Learn About Plants, Land, Cuisine and the Trades.
Student Voice: Black Mental Health Day Event; Reflecting on Catholic Graduate Expectations in 2020 - St. Mary Catholic Secondary School Co-operative Education.
Adult and Continuing Education: Grade 6, 7 and 8 Summer School Programs – Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre.

Upcoming Events:

DCPIC Lenten Craft Activities
March 31 - Indigenous Languages Day
April 1 - Holy Thursday
April 2 - Good Friday
April 3 - Holy Saturday (Easter Vigil)
April 4 - Easter Sunday
April 5 - Easter Monday
April 6 - Navigating Kindergarten: Why Choose a Catholic School?
April 6 - DCDSB "Light It Up Blue" to promote Autism Awareness
April 6 - Special Education Advisory Committee Meeting
April 8 - Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee Meeting
April 9 - Quadmester 3 Ends at Secondary Schools
April 12-16 - Spring Break
April 18-24 - National Volunteer Week
April 19 - Quadmester 4 Starts at Secondary Schools
April 20 - Post-Secondary Life: Is it ever too early to start planning?
April 21 - Questions About Drugs? Parents/Guardians Ask the Experts Event

Stay connected and sign up to receive the newsletter directly in your inbox.

DCDSB News: December 2022

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 20:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The December 2022 issue of the DCDSB News is now available! Please click here to view the newsletter.

This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what's happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

Advent Message.
DCDSB Welcomes New Board of Trustees and Elects Chair and Vice-Chair.
Faith: Advent Resources; and Archbishop Denis O’Connor Catholic High School Creates Nativity/Creche for St. Bernadette’s Parish.
Student Spotlight: Mini-Police Chief of the Day.
Indigenous Education: St. John Paul II Catholic School Learning with David A. Roberson and Beedahbin Peltier.
Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation: Foundation Launches Tributes and Legacy Funds.
DCDSB Updates: Inclement Weather; 2023-2024 ASAD Applications Are Now Open; Grade 1 French Immersion Registration is Now Open; Elementary International Languages Classes; Regional Art & Media Program; and Early Literacy Skills – Episode 2.
DCDSB Students: St. Christopher Catholic School Participates in Outdoor Experiential Learning; DCDSB Creating New Outdoor Learning Spaces; Durham College/Ontario Tech University Pathways Trip for English Language Learners; and Grade 8 OYAP Trades Day at St. Mary Catholic Secondary School.
Mental Health and Well-Being: Noticing Mental Health Concerns for Your Child.
Adult and Continuing Education: Travel for Credit Program – Summer 2023.
Upcoming Events, recognition days and more.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Parent Letter - Return to In-Person Learning on January 17, 2022

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 00:30:00 GMT

January 12, 2022

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Today the Ministry of Education, with recommendations from the Chief Medical Officer of Health, announced that elementary and secondary schools in the Durham Catholic District School Board will re-open for in-class instruction on Monday, January 17, 2022. Click here to view the announcement.

Effective Monday, January 17, 2022, students will return to in-person learning with enhanced protocols and routines in place that will support the health, safety and well-being of all members of our Catholic learning community.?

Screening and Confirmation of Self-Assessment
All students and staff are required to conduct daily screening for symptoms of COVID-19 before attending school using the COVID-19 school screening tool.

Please do not send your child to school if they or any member of your household have symptoms or have not passed the self-assessment.

Parents and guardians are required to sign off on the Confirmation of Self-Assessment attached. Please initial under the date and send the piece of paper back to school on Monday, January 17, 2022. Your child’s classroom educator will check for your signature and send the confirmation of self-assessment paper home each day.

All secondary students will be required to confirm that self-screening has been completed each day. This can be confirmed verbally as students enter their classroom, or by showing the green check mark that appears on their device after completing the COVID-19 self-screening tool.

Alternate arrangements will be made by the school for secondary students with special needs who do not have the capacity to conduct/confirm their own self-assessment.

For ease of access, a direct link to the COVID-19 school self-screening tool is available on your school’s website and on the DCDSB app. Parents, guardians, students and staff with mobile devices are encouraged to download the DCDSB app from Apple App Store or Google Play. The app can be located by searching “Durham Catholic District School Board”.

Masking Grades 1-12

Masking continues to be mandatory for all students in Grades 1-12, (subject to reasonable exceptions).

The Ministry has provided a supply of higher quality 3-ply reusable cloth masks for students. Each student will be given 2 of these masks upon their return to in-person school. While students can continue to provide their own mask/face covering, they are encouraged to wear 3-ply masks.

Masking - Kindergarten

Students in Kindergarten are strongly encouraged to wear a mask.

Please be advised that on Thursday, January 13, 2022, DCDSB is holding a Special Board Meeting to discuss masking requirements for Kindergarten students. This meeting will be live-streamed at 7:00 p.m., at https://dcdsb.ca/BoardMeeting. We will notify Kindergarten families of any updates to our masking requirements on Friday, January 14, 2022.

PCR Tests
Students and staff who present with symptoms of COVID-19 while at school will be provided with a PCR test to complete at home. Instructions will be provided to students and staff at the time test is provided. PCR tests are a limited supply item, and once they are exhausted there will be no more provided. The alternative will be the rapid antigen tests as outlined below.

Rapid Antigen Tests
Elementary students will receive two (2) Rapid Antigen Tests during the week of January 17, 2022 to bring home. Secondary students will receive Rapid Antigen Tests as kits are delivered in the coming week(s). These tests are only to be used if your child has symptoms and the COVID-19 school self-screening tool indicates that you should take a test.

Reducing High Contact Activities
At this time, high contact sports and instrumental wind and brass music ensembles will be paused. We will continue to provide low-contact indoor sports and safe extra-curricular activities. Additionally, play areas at lunch and recesses will be organized, as appropriate, to reduce mixing between classes from different divisions.

HEPA Filters
The Government of Ontario has deployed an additional 3,000 stand-alone HEPA filter units to school boards.

DCDSB has already purchased 1101 HEPA units which has allowed for a unit to be placed in every indoor classroom. Portables have mechanical air filtration systems that draw fresh air directly from outside. During the Christmas break, HEPA units were also added to cafeterias and chapels in our secondary schools. In addition to our current supply, we are anticipating the delivery of an additional 33 units from the Ministry that will be distributed to schools.

School-Based Vaccination Clinics
Today, the government announced that local Public Health Units will work with school boards to implement school-based vaccination clinics in the coming week(s). COVID-19 vaccinations are voluntary and available to anyone who is interested in obtaining the vaccine. Parent and guardian consent will be required prior to any school-based vaccination clinics. More information will be communicated when details are available.

Child Care Centres
Child care centres operating within our DCDSB schools continue to be open. Please contact your child care centre directly to confirm before and after school programming.

Transportation
Bus transportation will resume its normal operating schedule on Monday, January 17, 2022. Students in Kindergarten-Grade 12 will continue to wear masks on school buses, as well as outdoor bus stops. Screening must be completed prior to boarding the bus each morning. Updates regarding transportation will continue to be posted at dsts.on.ca.

We are excited to welcome students back in person to our Catholic learning communities and will continue to promote strategies that encourage positive mental health and well-being. Thank you for your cooperation during this time as we work together for a safe return to school. May we continue to pray for all those in need during these challenging times.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

Virtual Event - April 20: Start Planning for Post-Secondary Life

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 19:45:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board’s Student Services Department

presents

Is it ever too early to start planning?

Grade 7-9 students and families are invited to join us for an information session on what can be done now to prepare for post-secondary life.

April 20, 2021
6:30 p.m. – 7:45 p.m.

Zoom details:

Meeting ID 858 3787 8752
Password: Pathways20
Access meeting, click here.

For inquiries, email Christine at Christine.congrady@dcdsb.ca

Durham Catholic District School Board Named One of Canada's Best Employers for Company Culture 2025 by Forbes

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 17:30:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is proud to announce that it has been recognized by Forbes and Statista as one of Canada’s Best Employers for Company Culture 2025. This prestigious honour, part of a new award category introduced this year, highlights organizations across the country that foster exceptional internal cultures and are valued by their employees. The DCDSB is the only organization based in the Durham Region to be acknowledged on the list.

This recognition reflects DCDSB’s unwavering commitment to nurturing learning and working environments rooted in respect, collaboration and faith. As an inclusive Catholic learning community, DCDSB continues to prioritize the well-being, growth, and engagement of its staff striving to ensure every employee feels supported and empowered to thrive.

“We are incredibly honoured to be named among Canada’s Best Employers for Company Culture,” said Gerard Winn, Director of Education. “This award is a testament to the dedication of our staff and the strength of our shared values. It is the commitment, compassion, and professionalism of our employees, along with the strong relationships with our union, parish and community partners, that make DCDSB such a special place to work.”

"This recognition is a celebration of our people and reflects the deep sense of community and shared purpose that defines our board,” said Monique Forster, Chair of the Board. “We believe that a positive and inclusive culture is the foundation for excellence in Catholic education. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I extend heartfelt thanks to every DCDSB staff member for the incredible work they do each day in support of our students, families, and communities."

The Forbes and Statista ranking is based on a comprehensive survey of over 40,000 Canadian-based employees at companies with at least 500 people in the country. Survey respondents evaluated key aspects of workplace culture including inclusivity, work-life balance, and opportunities for professional development and advancement.

To learn more about rewarding career opportunities with the Durham Catholic District School Board, please visit dcdsb.ca/Careers.

Uploading Documents for Kindergarten Registration

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 18:45:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Thank you for choosing to register your child for Kindergarten at the Durham Catholic District School Board. As part of the online registration process, you are invited to upload your documents to complete your registration.

This document upload feature on the online registration portal will be available on February 15, 2021. We are currently working on some technical issues with the feature and apologize for the delay. At present, we ask that you complete all other sections of the online registration and then return to the online form at https://osas.dcdsb.ca/Account/Home on or after February 15 to add the following documents:

Proof of age (Baptismal Certificate/Birth Certificate / Birth Registration or Passport);
Proof of Religious Denomination (Baptismal Certificate of child or parent/ guardian);
Copy of your child’s Immunization Health Record (Immunization, allergies, etc.);
Proof of address; and
Copy of your municipal property taxes that shows your support for Catholic education.

In the meantime, you can continue to register online and complete all other sections of the form. For everyone, who has already registered, please note that your child’s Kindergarten registration has been received and your spot is secure. You will finalize the registration process in February once the documents are uploaded.

Thank you for your patience and stay safe.

Grade 7-12 Career Discovery Expo

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 14:00:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board has partnered with Build a Dream to offer students in Grades 7-12 the opportunity to attend a free online event to learn about exciting careers. While this event is directed to females, all Grade 7-12 students may attend.

Event will feature:

Dream Maker Panel - Inspirational speakers;
Employer Spotlight;
Pathways Panel;
Games & Prizes
Online Video Resources and more.

Date: February 9, 2021

Time: 6:00 - 8:30 p.m.

Registration is now open at dreambigdurham.eventbrite.ca (https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/dream-big-durham-tickets-133109948439)

Limited spots available. First come firs serve.

Information and resources: Novel Coronavirus

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 20:30:00 GMT

Information and resources: Novel Coronavirus

DCDSB staff works closely with our partners at the Durham Region Health Department and the Ministry of Health as we continue to monitor the impact of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Durham Catholic District School Board is Open for Rentals During March Break

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 15:30:00 GMT

For the first time Durham Catholic District School Board is open for rentals during March Break.

Gyms will be available for use between the hours of 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. from Monday, March 11 to Friday, March 15, 2024.

Please email communityuse@dcdsb.ca for gym availability.

Please visit our webpage to learn more: https://cus.dcdsb.ca/

Navigating Kindergarten Zoom Series

Fri, 05 Feb 2021 20:45:00 GMT

If your child will be attending Kindergarten in September 2021, we invite you to join us for Navigating Kindergarten, a live virtual parent/guardian series to prepare you and your child for Kindergarten. Sessions will begin at 7:00 p.m. and will provide tips to ensure a year filled with growth and learning.

Tuesday, February 23, 2021 at 7:00 p.m.: Welcome to Kindergarten
Tuesday, March 9, 2021 at 7:00 p.m: Before and After School Childcare
Tuesday, April 6, 2021 at 7:00 p.m: Rooted in Faith – Why Choose a Catholic School?

Join us for this Zoom series. Meeting ID: 850 6450 5145; Passcode: DCDSBKind

For further information on transitioning to Kindergarten please visit our website.

Terry Fox at St. Joseph Catholic School Oshawa

Fri, 27 Sep 2019 14:00:00 GMT

Students at St. Joseph Catholic School participated with enthusiasm and spirit for the Terry Fox Walk/Run on Thursday, September 26, 2019. This very important annual event to honour Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope to raise awareness and money for cancer research was generously supported by our families as we were able to send over $800 to the Terry Fox foundation. Terry Fox provides our students with an exceptional example of perseverance, determination and sacrifice that is aligned with our focus on Catholic social justice teachings. Helping others is what Jesus asked each of us to do. Way to go Eagles!

Community Immunization Clinics

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 19:30:00 GMT

The following information is being shared on behalf of the Durham Region Health Department for parents and guardians of Grade 7 to 12 students.

The Health Department community immunization clinics will continue to offer an opportunity for eligible students to get caught up on missed school-based vaccines including:

Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis booster), typically given at age 14 – 16 years
Meningitis, Hepatitis B or Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines, typically given in grade 7 (available to Grades 7-12)

Clinics are ongoing at the Oshawa and Pickering community immunization clinic locations over the summer months.

Of special note, the Health Department is offering added catch-up clinics at the following locations:

Where: Uxbridge Secondary School

When: June 25, 2022

Time: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Where: Clarington Community Immunization Clinic

When: July 13, 2022 and August 10, 2022

Time: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m

COVID-19 vaccination is also available at all our community immunization clinic locations.

For more information about the vaccines or to book an appointment, please visit durham.ca/immunizationclinics .

Expression of Interest to Offer Tutoring Programs

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 12:30:00 GMT

The purpose of this communication is to invite interested third party providers to submit an expression of interest to offer tutoring programs, as part of a learning recovery action plan, as identified by the Ministry of Education on February 17, 2022.

Attached are additional details about eligible programs or projects including instructions regarding submission requirements for consideration.

Please note: Providers who have been previously selected or who are currently performing work for Durham Catholic District School Board must also respond to this request in order to be considered. Providers that do not participate in this process and who are not subsequently approved will be excluded from this opportunity.

Please email your application via the attached Expression of Interest to purchasing@dcdsb.ca

Applications must be received by: 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 31, 2022.

Thank you, in advance, for your potential interest.

Terry Fox Event at St. Joseph

Tue, 10 Sep 2019 14:00:00 GMT

Details regarding our Terry Fox Event are attached.

Vote Today in the Reader's Choice Awards for Best Continuing Education Centre

Thu, 20 Sep 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Thank you to all of our Durham Catholic students, family members and friends for nominating our Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre in the Reader's Choice Awards for best Continuing Education Centre. Help support us by voting today! Visit durhamregion.com to vote.

To learn more about programs offered visit con-ed.ca.

Nominate a school for outstanding communications

Tue, 27 Feb 2018 17:00:00 GMT

Nominations are being accepted for the Reverend John Markle Home-School Communications Award.

Is your school advancing communications?

Our Durham Catholic schools are committed to the Board's strategic goal of Advancing Communications by delivering timely, effective and open communication with the most appropriate tools and technology available. A selection committee is accepting nominations from parents and guardians who believe their school has done an outstanding job in communicating with families over the 2017-2018 school year. One elementary and one secondary school will be selected to receive the award at the May 28, 2018 Board Meeting.

How to nominate a school

Newsletters provide relevant information in a format that is easy to read and stay up to date with current news and events.
School website is updated regularly with informative and meaningful content.
Social media posts include relevant and interesting information for followers.
Synervoice is used appropriately and effectively to notify parents of important notices.
Board information is distributed in a timely manner.
Photos or web links to show samples of outstanding home-school communications can be attached with the submission.

Submissions can be sent by email indicating Rev. John Markle Award in the subject line to communications@dcdsb.ca or delivered in a sealed envelope addressed to:

Communications - Rev. John Markle Award
Durham Catholic District School Board
650 Rossland Rd. West, Oshawa, ON L1J 7C4

Selection Committee

The winning schools will be selected by a committee consisting of one Trustee representative and two Student Trustees.

Deadline

Deadline for submissions is 5:00 p.m. on March 19, 2018.

Online Learning Extended to January 25, 2021

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 23:15:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Late this afternoon the government announced that elementary students in Southern Ontario will continue to engage in teacher-led online learning from January 11 to 22, 2021. The new anticipated date for return to in-class learning for both elementary and secondary students is Monday, January 25, 2021. Click here to view the announcement. This decision has been made as a result of a sharp increase in the number of positive Covid-19 cases being confirmed in the province.

Note that Friday, January 15, 2021 is designated as a Professional Activity (PA) Day for elementary school staff, which means there will be no online class instruction scheduled for elementary students on that day. Secondary programming will continue as scheduled.

We recognize the impact this decision may have on families, as well as the broader community and appreciate your ongoing understanding and support as we continue to follow provincial guidelines and protocols for keeping our communities safe. Below you will find a few reminders regarding technology and additional Ministry supports for learning during this extended period of online learning.

Sincerely,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

Additional Information for Online Learning January 11 to 22, 2021

Technology Needs

Where access to technology is a barrier, families should contact the school for support.

For technical support on board issued devices or applications such as Edsby, D2L/Brightspace, Office 365, etc., please email?TechnologySupport@dcdsb.ca?and explain the issue you are experiencing such as password reset. Please include in the email, the student name, student User ID, date of birth, school name, grade and phone number where we can contact you.

Edsby Support for Parents/Guardians/Students

Instructional videos are available for parents/guardians/students online at: https://dcdsb.ca/Edsby

Additional Ministry Supports for Learning

Share Your Thoughts on our Multi-Year Plan Implementation

Thu, 01 May 2025 13:00:00 GMT

Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is committed to open and ongoing engagement with students, families, employees, and members of the DCDSB community. We are concluding the second year of our multi-year plan, Inspire 2026, and we want to hear your thoughts and suggestions on implementation and what we should consider for future planning.

The strategic priorities identified in Inspire 2026, are to:

Support Faith and Well-Being;
Advance Human Rights and Equity; and
Improve Student Learning.

All students, families, employees, and members of the DCDSB community are invited to participate in a brief survey, which asks:

What do you think is going well in terms of the implementation of our multi-year plan, Inspire 2026, and what suggestions do you have for our future planning?

Please click here to participate in this survey. The survey will remain open until Friday, May 30, 2025.

Feedback received from the survey will help to guide our annual plans and multi-year plan. The insights will play a crucial role in our ongoing evaluation process, ensuring accountability and transparency, as outlined in our monitoring framework.

Apply to the Regional Arts & Media Program (AMP)

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 18:30:00 GMT

DCDSB's Regional Arts & Media Program (AMP), which is located at All Saints Catholic Secondary School in Whitby, is now accepting applications!

AMP offers specialized instruction in Dance, Media Arts (Grade 9 entry only), Instrumental Music, Performing Arts (Drama and Vocal Music), and Visual Arts, in addition to the existing curriculum.

Be sure to check out the AMP Information Night at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, for an opportunity to tour the facilities, speak with teachers, and learn more about the program.

Current Grade 6 and Grade 8 students are invited to apply now for a September 2026 start.

Visit amp.dcdsb.ca to learn more about the application and audition process.

DCDSB Students Win Gold and Silver in CBC Music Class Challenge

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 18:30:00 GMT

Congratulations to students and staff from St. Joseph Catholic School and All Saints Catholic Secondary School for their outstanding achievements in the 2021 CBC Music Class Challenge.

Mr. Steven Parker's class at St. Joseph Catholic School in Oshawa won first prize in the Elementary Vocal (Grades 4-6) category for their rendition of “Wonder” by Shawn Mendes. As part of this prize the school will receive $3,000 in new musical instruments and a plaque.

“We had 18 students participate in creating our submission. The band rehearsed separately from singers in order to follow COVID-19 guidelines. Each of the five singers were recorded individually to also follow the current guidelines. We had lots of fun thinking of new video ideas such using a leaf blower to film some of the slow-motion clips. Our students worked so hard, and I’m so very proud of all of their efforts” said Mr. Steven Parker.

Mr. Michael Paglia lead the Popular Music Ensemble at All Saints Catholic Secondary School who won second prize in the Secondary Vocal (Grades 11-12) category for their performance of “Knocking at the Door” by Arkells. As part of this prize the school will receive a plaque from CBC Music.

“Our students and staff have shown an incredible commitment to the Arts. Student Agency is an integral part of the creative process, and the ingenuity shown during these performances showcases our student’s God-given talents” said Tracy Barill, Director of Education at the Durham Catholic District School Board.

View the CBC Music Class Challenge videos below:

St. Joseph Catholic School: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ly-q88kNXLA
All Saints Catholic Secondary School: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9pnKo1w-CeY&feature=youtu.be

Accepting Nominations for DCDSB's Distinguished Catholic Alumni Awards

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 13:45:00 GMT

Nominations are now open for the Durham Catholic District School Board's (DCDSB) Distinguished Catholic Alumni Awards.

The Distinguished Catholic Alumni Awards recognizes former students of the Durham Catholic District School Board who have achieved significant success in their chosen pathway. Through their pursuit of personal excellence, they have made a positive contribution to their communities and represent the image of the Catholic learner as outlined in the Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations.

To be eligible for this award, the nominee must meet the following criteria:

The nominee is a former student of the Durham Catholic District School Board.
The nominee has distinguished themselves through service or accomplishments or career.

Click here to submit a nominaton. The deadline to nominate is Friday, March 31, 2023, at 4:30 p.m.

Durham Catholic District School Board Student Art Exhibit at the Robert McLaughlin Gallery

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 16:15:00 GMT

Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is pleased to announce the 2023 student art exhibit at the Robert McLaughlin Gallery (RMG). DCDSB’s student art show, Kaleidoscope, will be available for the public to view free-of-charge from February 24, 2023, until March 12, 2023. This year’s show features over 100 pieces of artwork created by students in Kindergarten to Grade 12.

Over 35 schools across the DCDSB submitted student work as part of the art exhibit. The art on display at the Robert McLaughlin Gallery includes sketches, paintings, clay, photography, digital art and more.

“DCDSB’s Kaleidoscope exhibit is an opportunity to bring our community together to celebrate amazing student artwork,” said Katharine Stevenson, Superintendent of Education. “We’re extremely proud of our students – this art exhibit showcases the creativity and artistic talents of Durham Catholic students from across the board.”

For Samuel A-S., a Grade 8 student at St. André Bessette Catholic School, having one of his pieces displayed at Kaleidoscope is a big accomplishment. “Art has been my passion ever since I was 5 years old. As a young, upcoming artist, it truly means the world to me to have my work displayed at the Robert McLaughlin Gallery. Having my art in this exhibit truly gives me the confidence to continue pursuing this passion of mine.”

The DCDSB has had a long-standing relationship with the RMG. The RMG has hosted an exhibit of DCDSB student art for over two decades, and both organizations are excited to be offering an in-person exhibit partnership for the first time since 2018.

“The RMG is thrilled to be able to host the DCDSB bi-annual exhibition in person again this year. The students have such immense talent and it is always such a joy to be able to celebrate their work in the gallery. I cannot wait to see the new artwork they have produced this year.” – Leila Timmins, Senior Curator at the RMG.

A wide range of mediums such as oil on canvas, sculpting, masks, watercolour, pencil, recycled art, photography, charcoal, textiles, ceramics, and fashion design are on display at the Robert McLaughlin Gallery until March 12, 2023. Visit the Gallery’s website at rmg.on.ca for hours of operation. Admission to the RMG is always free.

The DCDSB and the RMG would like to acknowledge the many dedicated educators and staff who have supported student creativity and expression, and whose efforts have gone into creating this exhibit. We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to all the students who had the courage to share their talents.

Holy Week Message

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 20:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

As we journey through Holy Week, we are humbled by the profound act of love and sacrifice that Jesus made for our salvation and joyfully celebrate the promise of His resurrection. Holy Week has always been a special time in our Catholic schools as we gather together in prayer to reflect on Jesus’ journey to the cross.

We invite you to view our Holy Week message below.

It is our hope that the hearts of those in our Catholic learning community are filled with hope, peace and renewal in the coming days. On behalf of the Durham Catholic District School Board, we wish you and your family a blessed and joyous Easter.

Yours in Faith,

Monique Forster Tracy Barill
Chair, Board of Trustees Director of Education

Domestic Sex Trafficking of Youth During COVID-19: Parents and Prevention Virtual Workshop

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 17:15:00 GMT

Victim Services of Durham Region invites parents and guardians to the Domestic Sex Trafficking of Youth During COVID-19: Parents and Prevention Virtual Workshop. This workshop is taking place on Thursday, January 26 from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m, online via Zoom. Registration is required.

This online workshop will empower caregivers and community members with psycho-education on human trafficking to prevent youth from being trafficked.

In this seminar, parents and guardians will:

Understand how human trafficking occurs in Durham Region
Learn how youth can be recruited and lured in
Learn how COVID-19 has increased youth vulnerability
Understand what makes youth vulnerable
Learn how to identify if youth are being trafficked
Understand what online safety is and how to implement it
Learn how to speak to youth about this topic
Hear from a survivor
Hear from a parent of a survivor

To register for this virtual workshop, please visit the link here: tinyurl.com/PPNJan

Greetings from the Archdiocese of Toronto

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 00:15:00 GMT

You are invited to enjoy a ShareMusic virtual concert this Thursday evening, June 25!

ShareMusic will be hosted by Father Matthew McCarthy, Associate Pastor at St. Michael’s Cathedral Basilica.

The event is called ShareMusic because, thematically, the songs and hymns will celebrate the ShareLife-funded organizations that do so much to support those in need.

During this time of pandemic, many talented musicians have not been able to sing or play at liturgical celebrations in the archdiocese. ShareMusic is a platform for musicians to share their gifts of music with a virtual audience.

Date: Thursday, June 25
Time: 8:00 p.m.
Place: Facebook Live on the Archdiocese of Toronto’s Facebook Page

ShareLife’s 2020 campaign has been greatly affected by COVID-19 and the temporary closure of churches. ShareMusic’s message is a reminder of the ongoing need to support our vulnerable brothers and sisters during the pandemic.

While in-church collections for ShareLife have been postponed until the fall, you can still donate to your parish’s campaign at www.sharelife.org.

Join us for this Facebook Live event, enjoy the wonderful music, and reflect on the important work that our ShareLife funded agencies do to live the Gospel message.

April 21 - Special Education Advisory Committee Meeting

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 19:15:00 GMT

The Special Education Advisory Committee is holding a committee meeting on Tuesday, April 21, 2020 at 7:30 p.m.

The Agenda for this meeting is posted on the board's website at https://www.dcdsb.ca/en/parents/resources/SEAC-2019-2020/04-14-20/SEAC---April-14-2020.pdf

Letter to Parents and Guardians - June 19, 2020

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 23:30:00 GMT

June 19, 2020

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As we wrap up the instructional Year of Hope, we reflect upon the triumphs and trials of what has unfolded to be an unprecedented time in the history of Catholic education in Ontario.

Looking ahead, we are hopeful that schools will open for instruction in September. Today the Minister of Education announced three different scenarios describing what the reopening of schools could look like:

A full return to conventional school with strict Public Health protocols in place;
Continued remote synchronous learning; or
An adaptive model that includes students attending school on alternate days or weeks for classroom instruction and continued synchronous learning.

Our staff will continue to monitor, review and plan throughout the summer to develop reopening models for all three scenarios in consultation with the Ministry of Education and Durham Region Health Department to ensure the health, safety and well-being of our students and staff. The model that we implement in September will be determined by circumstances at that time and will be directed by the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Health and informed by our local public health conditions.

Minister Lecce’s announcement also noted that parents and guardians have the choice to send their child(ren) back to school. A survey for parents/guardians is being developed that will be sent to you in the near future asking if you plan on sending your child(ren) back to school in September. This data will help us in planning for reopening.

What you can expect

To date we know the following will be implemented as part of an adaptive model for reopening:

extra hand hygiene by students and staff throughout the day;
enhanced environmental cleaning and ventilation in our schools;
smaller class sizes (15 students per classroom with one teacher);
physical distancing in the classroom and on school buses;
no sharing of classroom supplies and resources;
personal protective equipment worn by staff (e.g. Face masks or shields)
childcare services in our schools will be open;
limited contact allowed inside the schools.

In the coming days, Durham Student Transportation Services (DSTS) will also issue a survey to all DCDSB families who currently use transportation to and from school.

At this time, I ask that you monitor your email and your school’s website for more information throughout the summer months as more information becomes available and details are finalized. We will do our best to communicate as early and as often as we are able.I wish you all a safe and relaxing summer. Stay well and God Bless!

Yours in faith,

Tracy Barill,
Director of Education

Spring Issue of DCPIC Newsletter

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 16:00:00 GMT

Dear Durham Catholic Parents and Guardians,

The latest issue of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee's (DCPIC) newsletter is now available. This issue offers tips on summer learning, links to the Math@Home games which you can download and enjoy at home and a link to the Math Café for Parents video series. There is also a link to highlights from the board’s 50^th Anniversary Picnic.

Wishing everyone a safe and restful summer.

Yours in Catholic Education,

Melissa Bevan, Chair
Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee

Schools Remain Closed to May 4: Minister Lecca Letter to Parents

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 12:15:00 GMT

On March 31, the Ministry of Education announced that all publicly funded schools in Ontario will remain closed until May 4, 2020, in order to help stop the spread of COVID-19.

Please read a letter from Minister Lecce to parents and guardians below.

March 31 is Indigenous Languages Day

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 18:30:00 GMT

March 31 is National Indigenous Languages Day and an opportunity for Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada to recognize and celebrate Indigenous languages and work together towards language revitalization and collective understanding

DCDSB's Indigenous Education department has compiled resources for further learning about Indigenous languages. These include:

Fort Eerie Native Friendship Centre is offering online language learning classes for Haudenosaunee languages including Cayuga, Tuscarora, Oneida, Onondaga, Seneca and Mohawk. It also includes Anishinaabemowin (Ojibway language).
Native Canadian Centre of Toronto is offering children's language programming in Mohawk and Ojibway. Programming including nature talks, art sessions and bedtime stories.
Métis Nation of Ontario has language resources available on their website.
Inuktut Tusaalanga has online Inuktitut language classes and resources available on their website.

There are Facebook pages which offer Indigenous language resources and further learning opportunities. These include the following:

Anishinaabemdaa: Ojibway language page which also offers online courses
Ojibwe Language Fix of the Day
Michif Language: Métis language page with many resources
Southern Michif for Beginners Online Course Community
Mohawk Language Kanien'keha
Learn Cree with Me
Cree Language Resources
Maintaining our Cree Language and Culture
Learning Inuktitut Words
Learning_Inuktitut

For further information or resources, please contact DCDSB Indigenous Education at IndigenousEducation@dcdsb.ca.

9th Annual Durham Catholic Children's Foundation Gala

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 14:00:00 GMT

Join us for the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation Gala Honouring Bishop Vincent Nguyen and our Distinguished Catholic Alumni.

Date: Thursday, May 11, 2023
Location: Ajax Convention Centre, 550 Beck Crescent, Ajax
Cocktails: 6:00 p.m.
Dinner: 7:00 p.m.

Featuring: 2022 Durham Catholic Distinguished Alumni Award Winner - Aubrey Noronha.

Proceeds will go to the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation.

Early bird prize draw: Guests who purchase tickets by April 14, 2023, will be entered into a draw to win a pair of Apple AirPods 3rd generation.

Purchase your tickets or sponsor the event by clicking here.

Durham Catholic District School Board Seeks a Volunteer Community Member to Serve on the Audit Committee

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 12:45:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is seeking a community member with financial expertise and business knowledge to serve on its audit committee for a 3-year term effective immediately.

The audit committee is comprised of three (3) Trustees and two (2) independent members drawn from the community at large. The primary role of the audit committee is to assist the DCDSB Board of Trustees in fulfilling its duties related to governance and oversight. The duties of the audit committee fall under the following key areas: the financial reporting process, internal control framework, risk management practices, performance and function of the board’s internal and external auditors and the board’s compliance with its obligations under legislation. The Committee meets at least three (3) times a year, plus ad hoc meetings as required. An orientation will be provided to all committee members to clarify roles and responsibilities of audit committees for the school board sector.

Candidate Eligibility

Applicants must have sufficient accounting, senior financial management or other relevant business experience to understand public sector accounting and auditing standards.
The applicant must not be a current employee or officer of the board or of any other district school board or school authority.
The applicant must not have a parent, child or spouse currently employed by the board.

Submission of Applications
Qualified candidates interested in serving on the audit committee are invited to submit a letter of interest and resume by 5:00 on Friday, November 1, 2024, to:

Marie Hammond
Chief Financial Officer
Durham Catholic District School Board
652 Rossland Road W
Oshawa, ON L1J 8M7

Email: marie.hammond@dcdsb.ca

Guest Speaker Niigaan Sinclair speaks on What does Reconciliation look like?

Fri, 20 Oct 2017 15:45:00 GMT

In honour of Indigenous Education month, the Durham Catholic District School Board is hosting guest speaker, Niigaan Sinclair on What does reconciliation look like?

Date: Thursday, October 26, 2017

Time:

- 6:30 p.m. – snacks and refreshments

- 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. – Mr. Sinclair’s presentation

Location:
Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School
1375 Harwood Ave., N., Ajax

*Presentation will take place in the school’s theatre. Child minding is available.

Advanced registration is required, click here to register.

Graduation Mass with Cardinal Collins

Fri, 12 Jun 2020 17:45:00 GMT

Due to the requirements of physical distancing during this pandemic, graduation ceremonies across Ontario are taking a different form this year. In every Catholic school, the marking of graduation always includes a special Mass.

This year, the Archdiocese of Toronto is inviting graduating students, and their family and teachers to join Thomas Cardinal Collins for a virtually Mass to celebrate the Class of 2020 at all Catholic schools across the Archdiocese of Toronto. This includes Grade 8 graduates at the elementary level and Grade 12 students at the secondary level.

The Mass will take place on Tuesday, June 16, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. You can join the livestream by visiting: www.stmichaelscathedral.com/live. For those who may not be able to join us at that time, a recording of the Mass can be accessed anytime following the broadcast at: youtube.com/stmichaelscathedralbasilica/videos.

DCDSB News - September 2025

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 19:15:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

The September 2025 issue of the DCDSB News is now available. Please read the newsletter below.

Faith

Canonizations of Saint Pier Giorgio Frassati and Saint Carlo Acutis
On Sunday, September 7, 2025, the Catholic Church celebrated a very special moment: the canonizations (which means to be officially declared a saint) of Saint Pier Giorgio Frassati and Saint Carlo Acutis - two young men whose lives continue to inspire people of faith around the world.

Saint Pier Giorgio Frassati was born in 1901 and died in 1925 from polio. From Turin, Italy, he was known for his love of the poor, an adventurous spirit, and his motto “To the heights!” He shows us how to live the Gospel through service, prayer, and joy.

Saint Carlo Acutis was born in 1991 and died in 2006 from leukemina. As a teenager from Milan, Italy, he used his love of computers to share the beauty of the Eucharist via the internet. He once said, “The Eucharist is my highway to heaven.” His deep faith, kindness, and joyful spirit remind us that holiness is possible at any age.

These two new saints - one from the 20th century and one from the 21st - are now officially recognized by the Church as models of holiness. Let us celebrate their lives and keep them in our prayers as we begin this school year:

Loving God,

We thank You for the inspiring lives of Saints Pier Giorgio Frassati and Carlo Acutis. Their faith, courage, and joy remind us that holiness is possible in every moment of life.

Help us to follow their example - loving You deeply, serving others generously, and living each day with purpose and hope. May their prayers guide us as we grow in faith and friendship with You. Amen.

Saint Pier Giorgio and Saint Carlo, pray for us!

For more information, please visit the Vatican News webpage.

OCSTA Short-Video Contest
Students in Grades 4 to 12 are invited to participate in the Ontario Catholic School Trustee Association (OCSTA) Short-Video Contest! Interested students will create a 2-minute video demonstrating how the scriptural quote defining this year’s theme is calling us to live and to treat one another and the world around us: “As God who called you is holy, be holy yourselves.” (1 Peter 1:15-16)

The submission deadline is November 12, 2025. Students must upload their video to YouTube and complete the Contest Submission Form.

To learn more and to submit your video, please visit the OCSTA website.

Durham Catholic Children's Foundation

Call for Applications – Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation Board of Directors
The Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation is seeking to add three community representatives to its talented group of volunteers on its Board of Directors. To learn more about the Foundation and the commitments and duties of Board members, please visit durhamcatholicfoundation.ca.

Interested individuals are invited to apply by Friday, September 26, 2025

#ForeTheKids Golf Classic
On August 19, 2025, the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation proudly hosted the 10th Annual #ForeTheKids Golf Classic at Deer Creek Golf Club in Ajax. In partnership with the Durham Catholic District School Board, this special event brought together staff, volunteers, sponsors, and community members for a day of connection, compassion, and purpose.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of attendees and sponsors, we raised $40,178.72! These funds will enable the Foundation to continue to support Durham Catholic students and their families, providing essentials like food, clothing, and school supplies to those in need.

To learn more about this event, or to donate, visit durhamcatholicfoundation.ca.

Indigenous Education

September 30 is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
September 30 is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. On this day of solemn reflection, we honour the children who never returned home from residential schools, and offer thoughts and prayers to the survivors, their families, and all those impacted by this painful history. Acknowledging the history and the truth of the ongoing impacts of residential schools is essential to the reconciliation process.

At Durham Catholic, we recognize that this is a time for Catholic learning community to renew our commitment to Truth and Reconciliation. Staff and students demonstrate commitment to Truth and Reconciliation by learning about the impacts of colonization, collaborating with First Nation, Métis, and Inuit community and partners, and utilizing holistic approaches to student success. By engaging staff, students, and families in deepening our learning about residential schools and Treaties, as well as the ongoing contributions of Indigenous knowledge, culture, and perspective, DCDSB prioritizes Indigenous Education across the system.

We invite families to learn more at the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation website.

DCDSB Updates

Nominate a Student or Employee for People of Peace!
The DCDSB is proud to launch the People of Peace recognition program, a new initiative that brings to life our 2025-2026 Spiritual Theme: Blessed are the Peacemakers. Each month, we will honour one student and one staff member who exemplify the spirit of peacemaking – those who actively build bridges, foster understanding, and reflect God’s love in their daily lives. These individuals are peacemakers who inspire others through their commitment to creating more just and compassionate communities.

The selected nominees will be recognized at the monthly Board Meeting for a special award presentation, and will also be featured in the DCDSB News, board/school websites, and DCDSB social media.

October's theme is Peacemaker of Compassion. Make your nominations by visiting dcdsb.ca/PeopleOfPeace.

DCDSB Anti-Black Racism and Black Excellence Advisory Committee Invites Nominations for Chair and Parent Representatives
The Anti-Black Racism and Black Excellence Advisory Committee is currently seeking a new Chair and five Parent Area Representatives - one person representing each municipality (Ajax, Oshawa, Pickering, Whitby and Beaverton/Port Perry/Uxbridge).

The committee’s mandate provides a medium for effectively addressing and dismantling disadvantages and discrimination, historical or otherwise, experienced by Black students, staff and families in our Board.

Details about the position, eligibility requirements, and the nomination and election process, can be found on our website. Nominations are open until Monday, September 15, 2025.

Click here to visit our website to learn more and submit a nomination today.

2025-2026 Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee Self-Nominations
The Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) hosts elections for available positions on the committee at the beginning of each school year. In order to be eligible for a position on DCPIC, you must self-nominate for a position.

The online Self-Nomination Form is now open until Friday, September 26, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. Each eligible applicant who completes the Self-Nomination Form will be invited to speak at the in-person DCPIC meeting on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 7:30 p.m.

Please visit the DCPIC website for more information.

Safe and Accepting Schools Week
Safe and Accepting Schools Week takes place at DCDSB from September 15-19, 2025. This is the first of our safety and well-being focused weeks at DCDSB as we strive to create positive school climates where all members of the school community feel safe and accepted.

During Safe and Accepting Schools Week, our schools will focus on school safety and will participate in scheduled various emergency response drills. Each day during the week will focus on a theme that corresponds with our spiritual theme, Blessed are the Peacemakers.

September 15: Becoming a peacemaker
September 16: Loving others as God loves us
September 17: Helping each other with safety (as Christ saves us)
September 18: Making right choices (using the power of the Holy Spirit within us)
September 19: We are in this together

Parents and guardians are encouraged to review the Guide to Emergency Preparedness to ensure all members of our Catholic learning communities are prepared to respond quickly and effectively if an emergency situation arises.

To learn more about Safe and Accepting schools, please visit dcdsb.ca/SafeAndAcceptingSchools.

Mental Health and Well-Being

Health and Well-Being: Everyone, Everyday
As we begin this school year together, we want to take a moment to acknowledge the importance of wellness for your children, for you, and for our entire Catholic learning community.

Starting a new school year can bring a mix of emotions: excitement, nervousness, curiosity, and sometimes uncertainty. These feelings are natural, and part of growing and adapting. At DCDSB, we are committed to creating a space where every student feels safe, cared for, and valued.

We believe that learning happens best when students feel emotionally and mentally supported. That’s why we focus on building strong relationships, encouraging open communication, and promoting healthy habits through initiatives like Wellness Wednesdays, classroom check-ins, and access to caring adults throughout the building.
Every teacher, staff member, and administrator is here to help your child thrive, not just academically, but socially and emotionally too. If your child ever feels overwhelmed or needs support, we’re here to listen and help.

You play a vital role in your child’s wellness. We encourage you to:

Check in with your child regularly about how they’re feeling.
Celebrate small wins and progress.
Reach out to us if you have concerns or questions—we’re here for you too.
Access information and resources on our website.

Parent and Guardian Resources

Free Aviation Event for All Ages
On Saturday, October 4, families are invited to Girls Take Flight. This is a fun, free, STEM-based event to inspire a new generation to pursue rewarding careers in aviation and aerospace at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport.

Learn more about Girls Take Flight.

Parent Engagement Series: Toilet Learning
Join us for a virtual information session on toilet learning! Topics include signs of readiness, tips for success, and activities to support your child. A question-and-answer opportunity will follow. The session will not be recorded and is a joint presentation with Durham Community Health Centre (DCHC) and DCDSB Early Years.

Two virtual sessions are available for families to register:

Wednesday, September 24, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Wednesday, October 1, 2025, from 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

A virtual link will be provided to families once they have registered.

Please email childcare@dcdsb.ca if you would like to register for one of the virtual information sessions.

DCDSB Students

St. Theresa Catholic School Opens Its Doors to Newcomers
On Tuesday, August 26, 2025, St. Theresa Catholic School in Whitby welcomed newcomer families to Durham Region by hosting the Welcome and Information for Newcomers (WIN) program. This day was made possible through the partnership program, Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS). SWIS Durham is a partnership program involving Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB), Durham District School Board (DDSB), Community Development Council Durham and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. Read the full story.

Durham Regional Police Service Chief for a Day Contest

The Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) is proud to launch the 22nd annual Police Chief for a Day Contest - a unique opportunity for Grade 5 students to step into the shoes of Chief Peter Moreira and lead the Service for a day.

Please visit the DRPS website for more details.

Continuing Education

Register for Programs with Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre

Registration is open for the following programs at Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre:

Non-Credit Programs:

Elementary International Languages Program for students in Year 1 (Junior Kindergarten) to Grade 8
French for students in Year 1 (Junior Kindergarten) to Grade 3
Red Cross Training – Stay Safe! and Babysitting Training Programs

Secondary Credit Programs:

Night School Courses (Grades 11 & 12)
Secondary Language courses for credit (Grades 9-12)

Adult Day School and Correspondence to earn credits for the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or to upgrade courses for entrance to college, university or apprenticeship;
Adult Dual Credit Program with Durham College;
Adult Upgrading program focused on Literacy and Basic Skills;
Child Care Assistant Training Program;
Custodial Services Training Program;
English as a Second Language courses for adults (non-credit);
Microsoft Office Specialist Training Program;
Personal Support Worker Program;
Work-4-Credits Program (Cooperative Education);
Young Parent School Program at the Rose of Durham (Oshawa)

For more information, check out our Program Guide and visit our website at www.con-ed.ca.

Upcoming Events
The 2025-2026 DCDSB Calendar is now available! Please click here to view the calendar.

September is the month of the Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Sept 15-19: Safe and Accepting Schools Week
Sept 15: Payroll & Benefits, Business, Finance & Accounting Professionals Day
Sept 16: IT Professionals Day
Sept 18: Anti-Black Racism & Black Excellence Advisory Committee Meeting
Sept 19: Powley Day
Sept 21: International Day of Peace
Sept 22-24: Rosh Hashanah
Sept 22: Regular Board Meeting
Sept 24: AMP Online Applications Open
Sept 24: Rowan's Law Day
Sept 25: Franco-Ontarian Day
Sept 26: Human Resources Professionals Day
Sept 28: Right to Know Day
Sept 28: World Day of the Deaf
Sept 29: Solemnity of Saint Michael
Sept 30: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Click here and subscribe to our calendar to receive reminders about holidays, P.A. days, events, and recognition days.

Day of Remembrance - Recognizing One-Year of COVID-19

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 20:30:00 GMT

March 11, 2021

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Today marks the one-year anniversary of the World Health Organization’s declaration of the global pandemic. The world has changed drastically during this time. COVID-19 has impacted all of us in different ways, while causing massive disruptions to families, society and the economy.

This year has been one of tremendous challenge. The most troubling of which has been the significant loss of life that has occurred. Many members of our own Durham Catholic community have experienced tremendous pain and suffering since the onset of the pandemic. In some cases, the loss has been directly related to COVID-19, while others have lost loved ones and have been deprived of the physical, in person supports that would normally be put in place during times of mourning.

Today is a special day of remembrance when as a country we reflect upon and pray for all those who have died, knowing that we will always keep our loved ones close to our hearts.

Together, we have faced challenges, while adapting to remote learning. We embraced virtual meetings, Zoom, Edsby and D2L. We listened to our families’ needs and provided supports. We developed summer programs to help students bridge the gaps in learning. In September, we welcomed students back to school for in-person learning with enhanced safety measures, launched virtual elementary and secondary schools, and introduced quadmesters. In December, we shifted back to online learning and recently added hybrid learning at the secondary level. A special thank you to all of you, our families for your patience during these unprecedent times.

During all this, we continue to witness large and small acts of kindness and generosity – from our students and staff making face shields with our 3D printers and sewing masks, to the board’s donation of masks and safety supplies to Lakeridge Health, to students recording videos to bring smiles to residents in senior homes, to staff delivering technology, supplies and food to our families in need, and students and families writing messages of love, faith and hope. The outpouring of love and willingness to help others is a true testament to our Catholic values and beliefs.

As we look ahead, the rollout of vaccines offers us hope for a brighter future. As it will take time to vaccinate everyone against COVID-19, we must remain vigilant and adhere to the safety measures by maintaining physical distancing, wearing masks, and practicing hand hygiene to ensure we stay safe.

Let us continue to pray for the health and safety of our school communities.

Yours in faith,

Morgan Ste. Marie Tracy Barill
Chair of the Board Director of Education

Elementary Summer School Programs

Wed, 15 May 2024 19:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

Registration for summer school programs is still available! Please see the availability below.

Registration is still available for the following Non-Credit summer school programs:

Literacy and Numeracy Camps for Grades 6, 7 & 8

Please register at our website.

Literacy and Math including French Immersion for Grades 6, 7, & 8 - Virtual

There are two sessions available for this program:

Session 1: July 2 – July 12, 2024
Session 2: July 15 – July 26, 2024

Registrations are due by June 21, 2024. Please register at our website.

Head Start Program (August 19 – August 22, 2024)

Interested parents and students are asked to complete the online form here:

Head Start Program Registration. Registrations are due by June 28, 2024.

Elementary International Languages Program

There are two sessions available for this program:

Session 1: July 2 – July 26, 2024
Session 2: July 29 – August 16, 2024

We offer free summer International and Heritage Language classes for elementary students currently registered in JK to Grade 8. Please register on our website.

French for Kindergarten to Grade 3

There are two sessions available for this program:

Session 1: July 2 – July 26, 2024
Session 2: July 29 – August 16, 2024

Registration is available for the following High School summer school program:

Reach Ahead High School Credit (July 3 – 26, 2024)

Reach Ahead High School credit summer courses are available for current Grade 8 students who will be attending a DCDSB secondary school in September.

Registrations are due by June 14, 2024. Please visit our website to register.

Students are eligible to register for more than one non-credit summer school program, as long as the programs are on different weeks (i.e. a student cannot register for the Math Program and Digital Literacy Camp at the same time if they are during the same week, but they can register for both if the sessions do not overlap). For example, if a student registers for a Reach Ahead High School Credit (July 3 – 26, 2024), they are not able to register for a non-credit program during that time.

If you have any questions about the non-credit literacy/numeracy programs or Head Start, please contact cont.ed@dcdsb.ca or call (905) 683-7713.

For questions about the Reach Ahead High School Credit Program, please contact credit.reg@dcdsb.ca or call (905) 438-0570.

All summer school information can be found on the website www.con-ed.ca.

Thank you for your interest in summer school. We look forward to supporting your child’s education.

Sincerely,

Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre
Durham Catholic District School Board

Catholic Education: Learning and Living in Faith

Stay Informed! Subscribe to Your School's News and Calendar Webpages

Thu, 31 Aug 2017 13:15:00 GMT

Stay updated on the latest school news and never miss a school event or lunch day again! We encourage all Durham Catholic District School Board parents and guardians to subscribe to their school’s news and calendar webpages to receive the latest news updates and upcoming events right in your inbox.

By subscribing to your school’s calendar, you have the option of adding your school’s weekly events to your personal outlook calendar – eliminating the need to manage multiple calendars. While subscribing to your school’s news feed provides you with access to up-to-the-minute news involving your child’s school.

Subscribing is easy – see the documents below for step by step instructions on how to subscribe to both your school’s news and calendar feeds. Remember you must confirm the email that is sent to you prior to receiving notifications.

Join us in making the 2017-2018 school year – a year to celebrate!

Advent Message from Director of Education

Fri, 25 Nov 2022 17:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

Sunday, November 27, 2022 marks the beginning of a new liturgical year with the start of the season of Advent in the Catholic Church. Advent means “arrival.”

Throughout this time, the church prepares to celebrate the coming of Jesus. We recall the past, celebrate the present, and look to the future with hope. We prepare to celebrate not only the birth of Jesus on Christmas but also Jesus’ presence in our lives, homes, schools, parishes and the world!

We invite you to watch a video message from Tracy Barill, Director of Education and access Advent resources for you and your family at dcdsb.ca.

DCDSB News: March 2023

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 21:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The March 2023 issue of the DCDSB News is now available! Please click here to view the newsletter.

This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what's happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

Lenten Message from the Chair of the Board and Director of Education
Faith: Distribution of Ashes at Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School; and Bishops and Catholic Organizations Launch Turkey/Syria Earthquake Campaign.
Indigenous Education: March 31 is Indigenous Languages Day; and Trent University: Returning to Ourselves.
DCDSB Updates: Superintendent Lee-Fernandes on Secondment to Ontario Principals’ Council; It’s Awards Season at Durham Catholic District School Board; Kindergarten Registration is Now Open; Canadian Welding Bureau Training; Oshawa Program and Boundary Review Public Meetings; and Bus Route Information – Subscribe for Alerts.
DCDSB Students: Socasize at Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School; DCDSB Students Attend Durham Youth Drug Awareness Committee Student Conference; Student Spotlight – Kai H.; Coding Fire Escape Plans at St. Teresa of Calcutta Catholic School; Centennial College Female Trades Event; St. Anne Catholic School at Oshawa Generals Game; and Focusing on Black Students Without Borders at Archbishop Denis O’Connor Catholic High School.
Mental Health and Well-Being: Black Mental Health Day; and Not Just Surviving: Centering Black Mental Health Event.
Upcoming Events, recognition days and more.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

May's Issue of Celebrating Student Success Newsletter

Wed, 03 May 2017 17:30:00 GMT

Read the latest issue of our Celebrating Student Success newsletter.

This issue features articles on:

Year of Community – Inspirational Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School Students Becomes Role Model for Community;
Children’s Mental Health Week;
Durham Catholic Students Travel to the 100^th Anniversary of Vimy Ridge;
Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School Students win Epic Mac N’ Cheese Competition;
Providing Students with Great Learning Opportunities at LaMarca Barber & Salon;
St. Leo Catholic School Unleashes its Entrepreneurial Spirit;
Continuing Education Support Student Transitions;
Schools compete in Elementary System Robotics Final;
Pathways for Females in Non-Traditional Trades; and
Students Achieving Success through Cooperative Education.

Stay connected and sign up to receive the newsletter directly in your inbox.

Now Accepting Registration for Elementary Students' Summer Programs

Thu, 22 Mar 2018 18:45:00 GMT

Our Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre is offering a variety of summer programs to meet the needs of our elementary students. Programs available include:

Summer Camps for Literacy and Numeracy for students who have completed Grades 6, 7 and 8
Elementary International Languages
French for Kindergarten to Grade 3 Students
Head Start program for students transitioning into Grade 9 at their local Durham Catholic secondary school.

Arts & Media C-AMP
Cooking Camp
Coding & Robotics Camp
Digital Literacy Camp
Music Camp
Recreation & Fitness Camp

Visit con-ed.ca or click on the links above to learn more about how to register for our summer programs at select Durham Catholic schools.

Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee's Mind, Body and Spirit Symposium

Wed, 25 Jan 2017 21:30:00 GMT

Looking for balance in your busy life and need a break?
Take a moment for yourself to pause and learn at the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee's Healthy Mind, Body and Spirit Symposium.

When: Saturday, February 11, 2017
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (Doors open: 8:30 a.m. for registration)
Location: Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School, 700 Stevenson Road North, Oshawa

Keynote speaker: Teresa Hartnett, Director of the Family Ministry Office for the Diocese of Hamilton will speak about Faith and the 21^st Century Learner: Healthy in Mind, Body and Spirit.

Break-out sessions on the following topics available:

How to Help Our Children Live Mentally Healthy Lives;
Supporting Our Children to Form Positive Relationships Today, for Their Future Tomorrow;
Secondary School Life: Positioning Youth for Success Using Community Networks; or
Positive and Quick Approaches to Learning Outside the Classroom for Busy Parents.

You can attend this event in person or join the live stream webcast of the conference while at home. Advance registration to attend in person or webcast is required for this free event. Register online at: tiny.cc/zzmmiy

Free Child Care is available at the symposium.

Funding graciously provided by the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee and an Ontario Ministry of Education Parents Reaching Out grant.

Kindergarten Registration Now Open

Mon, 16 Jan 2017 14:00:00 GMT

Families are invited to register their children for Kindergarten at our Durham Catholic school. Your child must be turning 4 years of age by December 31, 2017 in order to register. You can complete an online registration form by clicking here.

Then give our school a call and make an appointment to complete your registration in person during the week of January 23 to 27, 2017.

We look forward to meeting you and welcome you to our Catholic school community.

DCDSB After School Social Skills Programs

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 18:30:00 GMT

DCDSB After School Social Skills Programs, for students diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), will begin the first week of October 2023.

This year, the following programs are being offered:

PEERS: The Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills (PEERS^®) is world-renowned for providing evidence-based social skills treatment to adolescents, and young adults diagnosed with ASD - available for Grade 7 to Grade 12.
Secret Agent Society: Secret Agent Society is for children ages 8 – 12, and uses spy-themed, gamified learning to improve emotion recognition and regulation, social problem solving and social skills.
Friendship Lab^®: The Friendship Lab is a 10-week, evidence-based, social skills program that helps children improve their peer relationships. Children are taught valuable skills for making and keeping friends through illustrated stories, role play and games. Parent participation is required.

PEERS and Secret Agent Society will be offered once a week at the Giffard Centre, and Friendship Lab will be offered at Sir Albert Love C.S. and online.

If you have a student that you feel would benefit from one of these programs, please cntact your school's Program Support Teacher for registration forms, as there are specific criteria requirements for admission to each program

Grade 1 French Immersion Registration Opens November 28

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 14:00:00 GMT

Dear Year 2 Kindergarten/Senior Kindergarten Families:

Registration for a September 2024 start in Grade 1 French Immersion opens on Tuesday, November 28 2023!

Virtual Information Session

You do not need to sign up in advance to attend. Simply click this link to join on the 28th at 7:00 p.m.

How to Register

Registration for Grade 1 French Immersion at the DCDSB, beginning in September 2024, will be open from Tuesday, November 28, 2023 until Friday, January 19, 2024, and is completed online through OSAS.

To complete the application, login to your OSAS account, and select “French Immersion New Application”.

Helpful Resources

If you are considering enrolling your child in French Immersion, the DCDSB has compiled some helpful resources below:

View details about the steps to register for French Immersion and discover Frequently Asked Questions
Learn about French Immersion programming at DCDSB.
View the DCDSB French Immersion school listing and boundary maps.

If you have questions about French Immersion, or French as a Second Language (FSL) programs, please contact us at FrenchPrograms@dcdsb.ca or visit our website.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

DCDSB News: May 2023

Fri, 05 May 2023 20:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

The May 2023 issue of the DCDSB News is now available! Please click here to view the newsletter.

This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what's happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

Faith

May is The Month of Mary

Indigenous Education

National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls & 2-Spirit People
Join the Indigenous Student Circle
Red Dress Display at Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School

Durham Catholic Children's Foundation

8th Annual #ForeTheKids Golf Classic

DCDSB Updates:

Celebrating the Coronation of His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen Consort
International Languages Classes
Lyme Disease Awareness
Manresa Jesuit Spiritual Renew Centre - A Day of Reflection for Catholic Parents of LGBTQ Young Adults
Academy for Student Athlete Development Information Session
Kindergarten Registration is Now Open!

DCDSB Students

Student Spotlight - Juliana B.
Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School Students Visit Durham College's Centre for Food
St. Monica Catholic School Free Throw Competition
DECA Lacrosse Tournament
DCDSB Students Receive Licensed to Learn Certification
St. Mary Catholic Secondary School Film Festival
Terry Fox Foundation Run

Mental Health and Well-Being

2023-2026 DCDSB Mental Health Strategy
Mental Health and Well-Being Series: For Parents, Guardians and Caregivers

Adult and Continuing Education

Summer School Registration is Available for Elementary and Secondary Students – Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre

Upcoming Events

Recognition days and more

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Gratitude Message from the Chair of the Board and Director of Education

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As summer draws to an end and we are greeted by the fresh air and vibrant colours of autumn, we often take time to gather with family and friends and give thanks. Here in Durham Catholic we are thankful for a smooth return to the school year, for the friends and neighbours who make up our community of faith and for the remarkable gift of Catholic education.

We continue to witness the generosity of all members of our Catholic community as schools and offices gather non-perishable food items for donation to local food banks this week. Thank you for your compassion.

With Thanksgiving on the horizon, we reflect on our continued commitment to Truth and Reconciliation. We know that images and stories often connected with this holiday misrepresent the truth of colonization and the long-lasting impact on Indigenous peoples that continues to present day. In 2022-2023, our spiritual theme is Listening with the Ear of the Heart. As a Catholic learning community, we are grateful for the grace that allows us to truly listen to even the most difficult truths. May we continue to do better as we learn and grow.

We wish you many blessings as we share this prayer of gratitude.

Compassionate God,

Thank you for the gift of this day, for the breath that maintains life, for the food of this land that nurtures life, and for the love of family and friends, without which there would be little satisfaction in life. Thank you for the beauty of this land, for the joy that the ear may hear, for the unknown that fills the cosmos with wonder, and for the breadth of space that takes us beyond the boundaries of ourselves. Your hand drew and created everything in our lives and the life that surrounds each one of us. For this, we give you thanks!

Amen.

Yours in Faith,

Morgan Ste. Marie Tracy Barill
Chair of the Board of Trustees Director of Education

Durham Catholic Children's Foundation Gala

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 20:00:00 GMT

Dear Durham Catholic Learning Community,

On behalf of the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation, we are excited to share an important opportunity with you. Since the Foundation was established in 2014, we’ve been committed to helping students in need within our Durham Catholic learning community. With your support, we’ve raised over $720,000 to provide essential services and assistance to students and their families in need. Now, more than ever, as our community faces growing challenges, your continued help is needed to continue our mission.

We are thrilled to invite you to the 11th Annual Foundation Gala—an event dedicated to uplifting Durham Catholic students and their families. This year’s gala will take place on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at Tosca Banquet Hall (800 Champlain Ave, Oshawa). It promises to be a night of celebration and meaningful connection as we celebrate our Durham Catholic Distinguished Alumni Award recipients.

Early Bird tickets are now available for a discounted price of $110. To secure your tickets, visit durhamcatholicfoundation.ca/gala. Hurry, the regular price of $130 begins on February 10, 2025!

In addition to purchasing tickets, we also offer a range of sponsorship opportunities to support the event. These include silent auction donations and various levels of sponsorship, with recognition across all event materials, media releases, social media, and our website.

We invite you to join us in making a difference in the lives of Durham Catholic students. Whether by attending the gala or becoming a sponsor, your support will have a lasting impact on the students and families who need it most.

If you aren’t able to make the gala and would like to support the Foundation, you can do so anytime by donating online through our website. Donation receipts are provided for purchases over $25.

Thank you for your ongoing generosity and dedication to our community. We can't wait to see you all at the gala!

Yours in hope and faith,

Bernadette Santiago, Gerard Winn
Chair, Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation Director of Education, Durham Catholic District School Board

2019-2020 Distinguished Catholic Volunteer Recipients

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 19:00:00 GMT

Congratulations to this year's Distinguished Catholic Volunteer recipients. You mean the World to Us! During these unprecedented times, we unfortantely cannot celebrate in person. However, we want to recognize our dedicated volunteers who contribute to the success of our schools and committees each and every day. We miss seeing your smiling faces and we are keeping all of you in our hearts and prayers. Visit dcpic.ca for the 2020 Distinguished Catholic Volunteer Recipients.

Call for Nominations - DCPIC looking for Parent Volunteers

Fri, 03 Feb 2017 21:30:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee is accepting nominations for two parent volunteers to join the committee. For the nomination form and to learn more, click here.

The mandate of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee is to:

Support, encourage, and enhance meaningful parent engagement at the board level;
To improve student achievement and well-being;
Provide information advice to the board on parent engagement;
Communicate with and support local Catholic school councils in the Durham Catholic District School Board;
Undertake activities to help parents support their children's learning at home and at school.

Parent Members are mandatory voting members and must be the parent of a pupil enrolled in a school of the Board.

Fall Issue of DCPIC Newsletter

Mon, 30 Oct 2017 18:30:00 GMT

The latest issue of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee's newsletter is now available. This issue includes articles on:

Chair's message;
Math Tips;
Mental Health Benefits of Physical Activity; and
Upcoming Events.

To learn more about the committee or how to register for upcoming events, visit dcpic.ca

Click the link above or attachement below to read the newsletter.

DCDSB News - May 2024

Fri, 03 May 2024 17:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

The May 2024 DCDSB News is now available! This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what’s happening across the DCDSB.

This newsletter includes:

Catholic Education Week and Mental Health Week

Indigenous Education in Action:
- National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2-Spirit People
- Indigenous Education Highlights

Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation:
- 10^th Annual Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation Gala
- Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation 2023 Annual Report
- #ForeTheKids Golf Classic in support of the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation

DCDSB Updates:
- 2024-2025 School Year Calendars
- DCDSB Anti-Black Racism and Black Excellence Advisory Committee Invites Nominations for Vice-Chair
- 2024-2025 Spiritual Theme Design Day
- Durham Region Health Department – Tick-Borne Diseases
- Summer STEM Camp for Black Students

Mental Health and Well-Being:
- How to Build a Coping Skills Tool Box
- Join School Mental Health Ontario’s Parent & Caregiver Collaboration Group

School Spotlight:
- St. Teresa of Calcutta Catholic School

DCDSB Student Spotlight:
- Joseph S. and Amanda R., Indigenous Student Circle
- Marc B., Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School

DCDSB Updates
- St. John XXIII Catholic School Wellness Day
- Introduction to Basic Automotive Service Evening Sessions at St. Mary Catholic Secondary School
- Tree Bee Competition at St. Monica Catholic School
- Student Voice Forum for Grade 9-11 Students

Continuing Education
- Summer School Registration is Open for Elementary and Secondary Students – Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre

Upcoming Events
- National Family and Life Week
- Looking Ahead

Sincerely,
Durham Catholic District School Board

DCDSB is Accepting Nominations for the 2019 Distinguished Catholic Alumni Award

Wed, 09 Jan 2019 20:45:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School is accepting nominations for the 2019 Distinguished Catholic Alumni Award. The Award recognizes former students of the Durham Catholic District School Board who have achieved significant success in their chosen pathway. Through their pursuit of personal excellence, they have made a positive contribution to their communities and represent the image of the Catholic learner as described by the Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations.

To be eligible for this award, the nominee must meet the following criteria:

The nominee is a former student of the Durham Catholic District School Board
The nominee has distinguished herself/himself through service or accomplishments or career
The nominee reflects the characteristics of the Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations:
- A Discerning Believer Formed in the Catholic Faith Community
- An Effective Communicator
- A Reflective and Creative Thinker
- A Life Long Learner
- A Collaborative Contributor
- A Caring Family Member
- A Responsible Citizen

If you know of a former student of the Durham Catholic District School Board who is eligible for this award, nominate them at https://www.dcdsb.ca/en/our-board/distinguished-catholic-alumni-award.aspx. Nominations are due on or before Friday, February 1, 2019.

Winners of the 2019 Distinguished Catholic Alumni Awards will berecognized at the annual Durham Catholic Children's Foundation Gala, on Thursday, May 2, 2019 at the Ajax Convention Centre.

Parents and Caregives Invited to a Discussion about Cannabis Use Among Durham Region Students

Thu, 04 Apr 2019 21:30:00 GMT

Durham Catholic District School Board parents and caregivers are invited to join us for a discussion about

Cannabis use among Durham Region Students

Presentations/Panel Discussion with Representatives from:

Pinewood Centre of Lakeridge Health;
Durham Region Health Department;
Durham Regional Police Services; and
Durham Catholic District School Board - Safe and Accepting Schools

Participants will learn about cannabis use and vaping among Durham Region students, including the trends, risks and health effects, as well as how to have safe, informed and non-judgmental conversations with youth.

Date: Wednesday, May 1, 2019
Time: 7:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Location: Durham Catholic District School Board - Pope Francis Conference Centre,
652 Rossland Road, West, Oshawa
(Building behind the DCDSB Catholic Education Centre - rear entrance)

Register at https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/cannabis-use-among-durham-region-students-tickets-59530521392

DCDSB 2025-2026 School Year Calendars

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 14:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

The Durham Catholic District School Board 2025-2026 school year calendars have been approved by the Ministry of Education.

Please click here to view the 2025-2026 School Year Calendars which can be found on our website.

Highlights of important dates in the calendar include:

The first day of school for both elementary and secondary students will be Tuesday, September 2, 2025.
The last day of school before the Christmas holidays will be Friday, December 19, 2025, and classes will resume on Monday, January 5, 2026.
The 2026 March Break will take place from March 13–20, 2026 (returning to school on Monday, March 23, 2026).

We want to thank all staff, families and community members who participated in the calendar consultations. Your feedback provided valuable input into the creation of these school year calendars.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

DCDSB Tulips for Truth

Fri, 24 Sep 2021 14:15:00 GMT

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day will take place on September 30, 2021. This day commemorates the tragic effects of residential schools in Canada and the continuing impacts on Indigenous communities while seeking to ensure that the devastating history and ongoing legacy of residential schools is never forgotten.

In recognition of the lives lost, the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) will be launching Tulips for Truth. As part of this initiative 25,000 tulips will be planted in honour of the Indigenous peoples whose lives have been lost due to the residential school system.

DCDSB staff, students and families are invited to donate towards the planting of each tulip. All funds raised from the Tulips for Truth initiative will go to The First Nations Child and Family Caring Society. The First Nations Child and Family Caring Society is a non-profit organization that was started by Squamish First Nation in 1998 and is led by Dr. Cindy Blackstock who saw the inequities for Indigenous youth and families in accessing health and education services. The First Nations Child and Family Caring Society works to support Indigenous families across Canada to ensure that they receive the care that all children in Canada deserve.

As part of the Tulips for Truth initiative, each DCDSB student and staff member will receive a tulip bulb to plant. One of the great gifts of the tulip is that you only have to plant it once. Since it returns every spring it can represent renewal, the eternal nature of the soul and refreshed perspectives. We hope when planting this bulb that students, families and staff will reflect on the ways we can all commit to ongoing action towards reconciliation.

DCDSB students will be engaging in further learning about the history of Residential Schools in Canada and the National Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. Please visit the DCDSB’s Residential Schools in Canada webpage and Indigenous Education Resources webpage for further information and suggested resources.

Adult and Continuing Education Registration

Mon, 29 Jan 2018 21:00:00 GMT

Our Adult and Continuing Education sites, both in Ajax and Oshawa, are accepting registrations for a variety of programs including:

Adult Day School, Night School, Correspondence and E-Learning courses to earn credits for Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD);
Adult Dual-Credit courses with Durham College;
Childcare Assistant Certificate Program;
Customer Service Training;
Work-4-Credits Program (Co-operative Education);
International Languages Saturday Programs for Kindergarten to Grade 8 students;
International Languages Saturday morning sessions for secondary credit (grades 9 to 12);
French for Kindergarten to Grade 3 students Saturday Program;
English as a Second Language courses for adults;
Adult upgrading courses focused on literacy and basic skills;
Young Parents School Program at the Rose of Durham (Oshawa); and
A variety of general interest courses for adults.

For more information, our complete Winter/Spring Course Guide is available here and/or call us at:

Ajax – (905)683-7713

Oshawa – (905)438-0570

All are welcome!

DCPIC Newsletter - Spring 2022

Thu, 26 May 2022 18:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The latest issue of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) newsletter is now available.

This issue of the newsletter includes:

A Message from the Chair;
DCPIC Parent/Guardian Survey;
2022 Distinguished Catholic Volunteer Awards;
DCPIC Events, including a save the date for an upcoming virtual family craft evening; and
DCPIC Faith Formation – Celebrate the Sacred Heart of Jesus!

As a friendly reminder, DCPIC is conducting a parent/guardian survey that will assist in setting the committee’s direction for the 2022-2023 school year. We welcome input from parents, guardians and caregivers. The survey consists of six questions and will take approximately 5 minutes to complete.

To complete the survey, please click here. The survey will remain open until Friday, June 3, 2022.

For more information about the committee, please visit dcpic.ca or email chair@dcpic.ca.

Yours in Faith,

Melissa Bevan
Chair of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee

Share Your Thoughts on DCDSB's 2023-2024 Budget and Strategic Priorities

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is currently in the process of gathering feedback to assist with our 2023-2024 strategic priorities and budget development. Students, families, staff, and community partners each play an important role in the success and support of our students and we want to hear from you.

We invite you to participate in the following three ThoughtExchange questions:

Share your thoughts about how we can work together to make sure that all students have access to and receive support for their faith development, mental health, and well-being?
Please click here to participate in this Thought Exchange.
What are your thoughts on how we can work together to ensure that the voices of our diverse communities are heard and respected, and that disparities are addressed to cultivate a safe and equitable learning environment for all students?
Please click here to participate in this Thought Exchange.
What are your thoughts on how we can work together to engage students in meaningful interactions, connections and experiential learning opportunities that meet the needs of our diverse student population?
Please click here to participate in this Thought Exchange.

Feedback received from the ThoughtExchange questions will help to inform our 2023-2024 budget and strategic priorities.

ThoughtExchange is an anonymous platform and will allow you to share your thoughts and rate the thoughts and ideas of others.

These ThoughtExchange questions will be available until Friday, March 24, 2023.

How does ThoughtExchange work?
Participants confidentially share their answers to a question, and can rate the ideas/answers that others have submitted. All thoughts and ratings are confidential.

You can come back as often as you would like to participate and, in fact, we encourage you to come back to rate some of the new ideas shared since you first participated. The ratings will help us understand the most important areas of investment for the upcoming school year.

Nov. 25 and Nov 28 - Grade 1 French Immersion Information Sessions

Thu, 21 Nov 2019 19:45:00 GMT

We welcome all students into our Grade 1 French Immersion program at schools across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

You are invited to enroll your child through our online registration process at dcdsb.ca from December 9, 2019 to January 17, 2020. Students must be entering Grade 1 in September 2020 to register.

To learn more about the program, we encourage you to attend one of the following Parent Information Sessions:

Monday, November 25, 2019
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Location: St. Leo Catholic School, 120 Watford St., Brooklin
Thursday, November 28, 2019
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Location: St. Patrick Catholic School, 280 Delaney Dr., Ajax

Opening Doors to Opportunities!

Now Accepting Nominations for the Distinguished Catholic Alumni Award

Tue, 28 Feb 2017 21:45:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is now accepting nominations for the 2017 Distinguished Catholic Alumni Award. Nominate former DCDSB students who have achieved significant success in their chosen pathway. Through their pursuit of personal excellence, they have made a positive contribution to their communities and represent the image of the Catholic learner as described by the Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations.

Online nomination forms are due by March 9. Complete a nomination form by clicking here.

Provincial Stay at Home Order Extended and Vaccinations for Students 12-17 years of age

Fri, 14 May 2021 18:30:00 GMT

May 14, 2021

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Vaccinations for Students Ages 12-17

Our Board will be meeting with the Durham Region Health Department next week to clarify details and will share information in the coming weeks once a plan has been finalized.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

DCDSB News - January 2024

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 14:00:00 GMT

The January 2024 DCDSB News is now available! This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what’s happening across the DCDSB.

This newsletter includes:

2022-2023 Director’s Annual Report
Living in Faith:
- Spirit of Giving Campaign at Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School
DCDSB Updates:
- Kindergarten Registration Opens Today
- Equity Invitational Learning Series Session Two: The Role of Active Allyship in Dismantling Anti-Black Racism in Schools
- DCPIC Parent Resource Conference
- Academy for Student Athlete Development (ASAD) Information Sessions for the 2024-2025 School Year
- How to Understand and Support Your Child or Teen with Mood Difficulties
- Reminder: French Immersion Registration Closes on January 19
- Inclement Weather Reminder
Durham Catholic Children's Foundation
Student Spotlight – Olivia M.
School Spotlight – St. Monica Catholic School
DCDSB Students:

St. Mary Students Attend Level Up Skilled Trades Careers Fair
Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School’s Ceramics Program is Fired Up!
Stomping Out the Stigma: Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School Students Attend the TAMI Summit
Checkmate at Notre Dame!
OYAP at St. Joseph Catholic School (Uxbridge)

Looking Ahead
- Tamil Heritage Month
- Bell Let's Talk Day

Continuing Education
- Join Us for an Information Session on the Summer 2024 Travel for Credit Program
Upcoming Events:
- Recognition days and more

Summer School Registration - Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 20:45:00 GMT

Archbishop Anthony Meagher CCEC offers a number of summer courses and programs for students in elementary and secondary school. Registration is currently open for the following:

Programs for Kindergarten to Grade 8 Students

International Languages Program – Year 1 (JK) to Grade 8
Interested in learning another language? Summer Elementary International and Heritage Language classes are for students in Year 1 (Junior Kindergarten) to Grade 8. There are 26 different languages to choose from! The classes will run from July 2 – July 25, 2025, (Session 1) at St. Mary CSS (Pickering) and All Saints CSS (Whitby). Session 2 classes will be offered between July 28 – August 15, 2025, at Notre Dame CSS (Ajax). Students who are currently enrolled in Kindergarten to Grade 3 are invited to register for French language classes.

Reach Ahead – High School Credit
Current Grade 8 students who will be attending a DCDSB secondary school are eligible to register for a Grade 9 summer high school credit through the Reach Ahead Program. Courses include Introduction to Business (BBI1O), Expressions of First Nations, Metis and Inuit Cultures (NAC1O), Technology and the Skilled Trades (TAS1O), Ultimate Potential (UP) Math (GLS1O) and more. Visit the Continuing Education Reach Ahead webpage for a full list of offerings and course descriptions.

Head Start Program – Non-Credit
The Head Start Program is available to all Grade 8 students going into Grade 9 at one of our Durham Catholic District School Board high schools and will run August 18 – 21, 2025. The program involves a review of literacy and numeracy skills and provides students with a preview of the Grade 9 curriculum for Mathematics and English. Study skills and health and well-being are also integrated into the program. Registration will open Wednesday, March 26, 2025.

Literacy/Numeracy Camps – Non-Credit
Summer Literacy/Numeracy camps for students in Grades 6 to 8 will be available for registration on Wednesday, March 26, 2025. Visit www.con-ed.ca/summerprograms for more information.

Programs for Grade 9 to 12 Students
Current secondary school students can now register for the following programs:

· Accelerated Summer School credit courses for secondary students.

· Travel for Credit program for DCDSB secondary students.

Ontario Building New Catholic High School in Oshawa

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 21:00:00 GMT

As part of its plan to protect Ontario and prepare students for success in our workforce, the Ontario government has provided the Durham Catholic District School Board with approval to issue the tender for the new replacement Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School to create more student spaces.

“The funding for a new replacement Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School in Oshawa is great news for our community,” said the Hon. Todd McCarthy, MPP for Durham. “Through this investment, we’re getting shovels in the ground to build better schools and creating opportunities for students to thrive today and well into the future.”

This project is supported by a total investment of $71,065,075 which includes additional funding of $35.8 million. When complete, the project will deliver 1,061 new secondary student spaces for local families.

“Our government is focused on supporting students, teachers and parents while ensuring school boards are equipping our students with the tools they need to succeed,” said Paul Calandra, Minister of Education. “Once completed, this project will offer an inspiring learning environment that helps students prepare for the jobs of tomorrow. Our government will continue to provide the resources students need for ultimate achievement.”

Through local infrastructure projects like the one in Oshawa, the government is meeting urgent needs to address growth related to demographic changes. The investment is part of Ontario’s commitment to invest about $23 billion to support school construction, renewal and improvement over 10 years.

“Having championed the new Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School since I was first elected as the MPP for Whitby-Oshawa, I’m proud to see the government delivering on its commitment to ensure our children have every advantage they need to succeed for generations to come," said Lorne Coe, MPP for Whitby, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Children, Community and Social Services, and Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence, and Security. “Our government’s investment will create more than 1,000 new student spaces, supporting families across Durham Region and ensuring students have access to modern, high-quality learning environments that prepare them for success in the workforce of tomorrow.”

“We are deeply grateful to the Government of Ontario, Minister Calandra, Minister McCarthy, and MPP Coe for their continued commitment to students and families in the Durham Region and their support of Catholic education,” said Monique Forster, Chair of the Durham Catholic District School Board. "The investment in a new Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School represents an exciting step forward in providing modern, innovative learning environments where students can thrive academically, spiritually, and socially. This project reflects a shared vision for student success and student achievement.”

The new Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School will be located at 1001 Greenhill Avenue in Oshawa.

Quick Facts

In May 2025, Ontario introduced the Supporting Children and Students Act, 2025, to strengthen the government’s oversight of school board finances, governance and program performance, to ensure that every dollar invested is preparing students for success.
Since 2018, Ontario has provided nearly $5 billion for major capital projects, including 169 new schools, 124 permanent additions or renovations to existing school buildings and over 9,600 new licensed childcare spaces in schools.
For the 2025-26 school year, the province is providing $1.4 billion to school boards for school renewal projects.
The Better Schools and Student Outcomes Act, 2023 includes measures to help maximize capital assets of boards to support building modern schools faster, and better use current school space.

DCDSB Schools Closed on January 17, 2022

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 13:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The health and safety of Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) students and staff is our highest priority. All DCDSB schools are closed for the day due to the inclement weather.

Secondary students will switch to remote online learning today.

Synchronous classes for all elementary students (including Durham Catholic Virtual Elementary School students) are cancelled. We encourage families of our elementary students to enjoy this ‘snow day’ however, educators will post asynchronous materials online for those who wish to access them. Families are also reminded of the materials and resources accessible through TVO Learn?and?TFO?IDÉLLO, apprendre à la maison, which provide supports for students by accessing additional educational resources developed by Ontario certified teachers.?

Thank you for your continued patience. All schools are expected to resume in-person learning tomorrow.

Yours in faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

2024-2025 DCDSB Student Achievement Plan

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 14:00:00 GMT

Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is pleased to present the 2024-2025 Student Achievement Plan. In accordance with the Better Schools and Student Outcomes Act (2023), the DCDSB Student Achievement Plan was developed to include the following mandatory provincial priorities and goals:

Priority 1 – Achievement of Learning Outcomes in Core Academic Skills

Goal #1 (a) - Improve students’ literacy learning and achievement
Goal #1 (b) - Improve students’ math learning and achievement

Priority 2 – Preparation of Students for Future Success

Goal #2 (a) - Improve graduation rates and preparedness for future success

Priority 3 – Student Engagement and Well-Being

Goal #3 (a) - Improve students’ participation in class time and learning
Goal #3 (b) - Improve student well-being

Please click here to view the 2024-2025 Student Achievement Plan.

Durham Catholic District School Board Celebrates Catholic Education Week and Children's Mental Health Week from May 3-7, 2021

Mon, 03 May 2021 13:15:00 GMT

During the first week of May, the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) celebrates Catholic Education Week, which recognizes the important contributions of Catholic education to our community, the province and Canada. May 3-7, 2021 is also nationally designated as Children’s Mental Health Week. In the DCDSB’s Year of Love, our theme for the combined week is Nurturing Hope; Cultivating Gratitude. This theme is a merging of the Catholic Education Week theme of ‘Nurturing Hope’, with our board’s selected Children’s Mental Health Week theme of ‘Cultivating Gratitude’.

“In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, many of us are experiencing challenges to personal and spiritual well-being posed by the uncertainty and physical isolation of the current global crisis. This makes the timing and the concerns of Mental Health Week, which takes place during the same week as Catholic Education Week, are all the more relevant. We are looking forward to celebrating these important weeks with special activities at all grade levels, including prayer celebrations and service activities” said Tracy Barill, Director of Education.

To celebrate these important weeks, we are inviting families to participate in our ‘With Gratitude’ initiative and At-Home Activities. As part of our ‘With Gratitude’ initiative, families can download our postcard and either print it or send it digitally to praise or thank a friend, a colleague, or a member of our community for something they’ve done, or as a simple message of appreciation.

Schools will be sending messages of hope and gratitude throughout our communities. Some of these messages will be reaching the following frontline essential workers:

Durham Catholic Virtual Elementary School: Region of Durham long-term care home staff
Good Shepherd Catholic School (Port Perry): Region of Durham water and wastewater treatment operators
Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School (Oshawa): Region of Durham transit operators
Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School (Ajax): Seniors Living Residence and Palliative Care Unit
St. Joseph Catholic School (Uxbridge): Markham Stouffville Hospital, Uxbridge Campus
St. Theresa Catholic School (Whitby): Region of Durham Public Health staff and paramedics

Join us as we share uplifting messages of hope and gratitude with everyone around us. Let’s spread joy, love and happiness! When sharing messages on social media, please use the hashtags #DCDSBFaith, #CEW2021 and #CMHW2021.

We will also be celebrating the following important events during the week:

Tuesday, May 4, 2021: Distinguished Catholic Educator and Leader Awards Celebration – a YouTube Premiere Event at 4:30 p.m.
Wednesday, May 5, 2021: Catholic Education Week Province Wide Virtual Mass at 11:00 a.m. with His Eminence, Thomas Cardinal Collins
Thursday, May 6, 2021: Distinguished Catholic Alumni Award Recipients Announced

Answering Your Edsby Questions

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 22:15:00 GMT

Do you need help answering your questions about Edsby? See the question and answer document below to help you login and navigate Edsby.

Online parent videos are also available at https://www.dcdsb.ca/en/parents/edsby.aspx. Click on the Parent tab to access the videos.

The Toronto Diocesan CWL Youth Program

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 20:15:00 GMT

The Toronto Diocesan CWL Youth Awards Program is a combination of contests which are intended to support Catholic youth to hone their skills in becoming people of faith dedicated to following in the footsteps of Christ to serve God and Canada. The program reflects the Objects of the Catholic Women’s League of Canada. These contests are good confidence builders for the students and an opportunity for them to share their views and values on important Catholic teachings. All documentation can be found on the Toronto Diocesan CWL webpage under Youth.

https://www.cwltoronto.ca/index.php/reference_documents

DCDSB - School Resumes on January 8, 2024

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 15:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

Happy New Year!

We hope you had a joyful Christmas break filled with time spent with loved ones. We are looking forward to welcoming students and staff back to our schools on Monday, January 8, 2024.

We wanted to share a few updates and reminders with you, ahead of school resuming next week.

Report a Student Absence Through Safe Arrival
If your child is going to be absent, we ask that you notify the school using one of the following methods:

Safe Arrival portal login: go.schoolmessenger.ca
Call the toll free number: 1-844-288-7628
Report the absence through our smartphone mobile application: SchoolMessenger. Available from the App Store and Google Play Store.

Please click here for more information on SchoolMessenger and for steps on how to create an account.

DSTS – Check Your Childs Bus Route
Durham Student Transportation Services (DSTS) is responsible for ensuring safe and efficient transportation to and from schools for eligible students.

Families are encouraged to create an account for the DSTS Parent Portal, where they can subscribe to receive email alerts for their child(ren)'s bus route(s). Please note that parents and guardians will require their child(ren)'s Ontario Education Number (OEN) to subscribe. Please click here to view information on how to create an account.

For more information on transportation, please visit our website.

Inclement Weather
As we are now in the winter season, parents, guardians and caregivers are reminded to subscribe to Durham Student Transportations Services website to receive updates on inclement weather zones and to track your child's bus. Visit dsts.on.ca for more information.

DCDSB Calendar
The 2023-2024 DCDSB calendar is available to view and/or download on our website.

Click here and subscribe to receive reminders about holidays, P.A. days, events, and recognition days.

We look forward to seeing our Durham Catholic community on Monday, January 8, 2024, when school resumes.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

DCDSB and OECTA Durham Elementary Teachers' Unit Announce Tentative Agreement

Fri, 10 May 2024 14:45:00 GMT

Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is pleased to announce that it has reached a tentative settlement for a renewed collective agreement with the Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association (OECTA) Durham Elementary Unit. OECTA Durham Elementary represents the board’s permanent elementary teachers.

The details of the Memorandum of Settlement remain confidential and are subject to local ratification by the OECTA Durham Elementary membership and the DCDSB Board of Trustees.

The DCDSB remains committed to working closely with all partners to provide outstanding Catholic education to approximately 22,500 elementary and secondary students in Durham Region, as well as thousands of adult and continuing education learners.

CABS Summer STEM Camp

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 16:15:00 GMT

Durham Catholic District School Board's Coach/Advocate for Black Students (CABS) program is excited to offer three different Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) camps in partnership with Queen’s University, Ontario Tech University Engineering Outreach, and McMaster University.

Through this program, students will experience a community-orientated and accessible learning environment to explore different facets of STEM, coding, and engineering design. These programs will be led by Black facilitators, allowing youth to see themselves represented in STEM fields and experience positive mentorship while participating in various activities.

DCDSB elementary students currently enrolled in Grades 7 and 8, and secondary students currently enrolled in Grades 9 and 10 are invited to register. Space is limited, so please only register for one of the free camps being offered. While this is a camp facilitated by the CABS program, any and all students of the DCDSB in Grades 7 to 10 are welcomed to attend.

Each camp will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. at St. James Catholic School (10 Clover Ridge Dr W, Ajax).

There are three sessions available:

Week 1: July 7, 2025 - July 10, 2025 - Ontario Tech University and Queen's University
Week 2: July 14, 2025 - July 17, 2025 - Ontario Tech University and Queen's University
Week 3: July 21, 2025 - July 24, 2025 - McMaster University

Please visit the CABS Summer STEM Camp webpage to register and for more information.

Level Up - Unlock your Future in the Skilled Trades

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 19:45:00 GMT

The Ministry of Education is hosting a career fair/open house for parents and guardians on October 26, 2022 to learn more about careers in the skilled trades.

The fair will provide young people with an opportunity to learn more about careers in the skilled trades, meet people in the trades and see hands-on demonstrations.

See the flyer below for more information about this upcoming event.

Ventilation Report

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 14:00:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board is committed to ensuring healthy and safe learning environments for students and staff by improving ventilation and/or filtration. Our Ventilation Report provides details on the ventilation and filtration measures for each of our schools.

Gold Record Awards for St. Joseph Catholic School and All Saints CSS

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 20:45:00 GMT

Congratulations to St. Joseph Catholic School, in Oshawa and All Saints Catholic Secondary School for their second and third place finishes in the CBC’s 2019 Music Class Challenge. The schools were recently honoured with their Gold Record Awards for their achievements in the nationwide music challenge.

Thank you for our dedicated teachers – Mr. Parker from St. Joseph Catholic School and Mr. Paglia, Mr. Mahoney, Mr. Chan and Ms. Dumpit from All Saints Catholic Secondary School for your commitment to excellence.

You can watch their submissions again at:

Additional Virtual Regional Arts & Media Program Open House

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 20:45:00 GMT

Due to high demand, and excitement about the Regional Arts & Media Program (AMP) at All Saints Catholic Secondary School, we are pleased to offer a second virtual AMP Open House on Thursday, November 12, 2020 at 7:00 p.m.

This session is for families who didn't have an opportunity to join the November 4th session. Information presented will be the same as our November 4th Open House.

We invite students who will be entering Grade 7 or Grade 9 in September 2021 to learn, create, and grow with us.

Join us on zoom at:

https://zoom.us/j/91381395822
Meeting ID: 913 8139 5822
Passcode: AMP21

Promoting Summer Learning

Fri, 28 Jun 2019 16:30:00 GMT

Research notes that “on average, students could lose approximately 1-3 months worth of learning during the summer months." The loss of learning, can be upsetting for children who have worked hard during the school year or impact one's self confidence if a gap in learning already exists.

You can prevent the "summer brain drain" by actively taking advantage of everyday interactions and "teachable moments" to make learning fun. Visit our webpage at https://www.dcdsb.ca/en/programs-services/Beat-Summer-Brain-Drain.aspx for ideas on activities that you can do with your child to promote learning. #DCDSBSummerLearning

Ministry of Education Delays March Break

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 23:00:00 GMT

February 11, 2021

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Today, Education Minister Stephen Lecce announced that March Break will be delayed for schools across Ontario until April, to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Click here to view the announcement.

Our March Break, which was originally scheduled for March 15-19, has been delayed for a month and will now take place from April 12-16. This means that classes will continue uninterrupted through all of March. The new break schedule applies to both in-person and virtual learners.

We recognize also that Friday, March 12 is currently designated on the calendar as a board holiday for students. We are reviewing this date in light of today’s announcement and will confirm our plan with families as soon as possible.

We understand that our students and staff, with the support of parents and families have been working hard this year to continue the learning under very unusual circumstances and that many have been looking forward to a scheduled break. While this delay may be disappointing, we appreciate the importance of following the recommendations of the Chief Medical Officer to control the spread of COVID-19 and protect the members of our community.

Staff members have been pleased to welcome students as they returned to the classroom this week for in-person learning and appreciate your cooperation in following the health and safety protocols that are in place to keep everyone safe.

Yours in Catholic Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

Catholic School Board Budget Consultation Process

Thu, 01 Mar 2018 20:15:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board has always been financially responsible with a focus on student faith formation, well-being and achievement in accordance with the Board's Strategic Plan, Discovery 20/20. As part of the budget process for the upcoming 2018/2019 school year, the Finance Committee of the Durham Catholic District School Board is seeking input from all members of the Catholic community to assist in formulating and affirming Board priorities. In particular, the Board is seeking feedback surrounding the following: essential supports and services to be sustained; areas in need of additional supports; areas to consider for budget savings; as well as any other comments or suggestions you may have.

How Can You Provide Input?

If you are comfortable sharing your ideas in a public forum you can provide your comments in person to the Finance Committee at its next meeting which will be held on April 9, 2018 at the Catholic Education Centre, 650 Rossland Road West, Oshawa beginning at 7:00 p.m. Delegates are requested to indicate their intention to present to the Finance Committee by April 2, 2018 via email to budget@dcdsb.ca.

For those of you who may not be as comfortable presenting in person, there are other ways to provide your input. Please note that your comments and suggestions are welcome at any time during the year using any of the methods indicated below.

You can complete a Stakeholder Input Form found on the Board's website at https://www.dcdsb.ca/en/our-board/Budget-Consultation.aspx and mail or hand deliver it to:

Catholic Education Centre
650 Rossland Road West
Oshawa, ON L1J 7C4
Attention: Business Services

You can email your comments to budget@dcdsb.ca or leave a message at 905-576-6707, ext. 22300, or 1-877-482-0722, ext. 22300

Where Can You Find Budget Related Information?

All information relating to the Board’s finances can be found on the Board's website (www.dcdsb.ca) under Our Board, Departments, Business Services, Finance. If you have any questions or require assistance accessing this information, please email budget@dcdsb.ca or call 905-576-6707, ext. 22300 or 1-877-482- 0722, ext. 22300.

Thanking you in advance for your comments. Your input is truly valued.

Yours in Catholic Education,

Theresa Corless, Chair, Finance Committee
Monique Forster, Vice Chair, Finance Committee
Paul Pulla, Trustee, Finance Committee

As part of a public process all input received will be provided to the Board for review and consideration.

Updates for DCDSB Families

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 21:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Last week, the Ontario government announced several updates for families.

Semester Schedule for Secondary Schools

The Ministry of Education has advised Ontario school boards that we can return to a semester schedule for the second half of the school year. In a semester schedule. students can take up to four courses per day for half of the school year. The current quadmester schedule has secondary students taking up to two courses per day for a quarter of the school year.

DCDSB secondary schools will transition to a regular semester schedule for the start of Semester 2 (previously Quadmester 3) in February 2022. This will mark the mid-year point of the 2021-2022 school year. Please note that the start and end times of the school day will remain the same up until the end of June as they are connected to our student transportation.

While this may come as welcomed news for many of our students, families, and staff, we recognize that yet another change can cause anxiety for some, particularly those students who have yet to experience a semester system. As we transition back to a more typical school year structure students and families can contact their school to access resources and supports.

We appreciate all members of our DCDSB community for your cooperation and resiliency as we work together to navigate the many changes caused by the pandemic. We believe that the shift back to a more normal secondary school timetable and schedule, will positively impact teaching and learning for our students. We will continue to work closely with the Durham Region Health Department to ensure health and safety measures are in place at all times.

Please note that with this announcement, our secondary schools will begin the process of timetabling student schedules for Semester 2 (beginning February 2022). This will take some time, and schools will provide further information to students and families in the new year.

Rapid Antigen Screening Kits – All Students

The Ministry of Education also announced that they will be providing elementary and secondary school students with rapid antigen screening kits, to take home during the Christmas break. Every student will be able to pick up a kit of five tests to complete voluntary screening at home to support a safe return to school in January 2022. It is important to note that these Rapid Antigen Tests are voluntary and will be available to families who wish to participate. More information regarding the distribution of the kits will be shared when further details are available.

Travelling over the Christmas Break

The Durham Region Health Department has asked us to remind families of the federal guidelines for travel. As per the Durham Region Health Department and Government of Canada direction, unvaccinated students returning from travel outside of Canada must not attend school or childcare for 14 days after their return. Fully vaccinated students who have travelled outside of Canada and meet the requirements to be exempt from federal quarantine (including passing a pre-entry molecular COVID-19 test), are able to attend school upon their return. Further details can be found at the Government of Canada website. Please also review the Government of Canada’s Travel Advice and Advisories FAQ ahead of any international travel.

COVID-19 Vaccinations for Students age 5 to 11 Years

On Friday, November 19, 2021, the Ontario government announced that COVID-19 vaccinations for children age 5 to 11 years will soon be available. Beginning Tuesday, November 23, 2021 families will be able to book a COVID-19 vaccination appointment for children age 5 to 11 years by visiting the Region of Durham website at durham.ca.

We will continue to work with the Durham Region Health Department to communicate information on upcoming vaccination clinics in our schools and public locations for anyone who is interested in obtaining the vaccine for their child(ren).

Once again, we want to thank you for your continued patience as we work through this new information. Thank you for your support during these unpredictable times. We remind you to follow our Return to Learning and COVID-19 Updates webpages and your child’s school website for the latest updates and information.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

DCDSB 2023-2024 Student Achievement Plan

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 20:00:00 GMT

Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is pleased to present the 2023-2024 Student Achievement Plan. This plan is a working document and will be continually updated and revised, so we encourage you to subscribe to our webpage to receive updates.

The 2023-2024 Student Achievement Plan has been developed in accordance with the Better Schools and Student Outcomes Act (2023) and aligns with the provincial priorities and goals.

Click here to view the 2023-2024 Student Achievement Plan.

DCDSB Strategic Planning - Your Voice Matters!

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 20:30:00 GMT

April 27, 2022

Dear Students, Families, Parishes and Community Partners,

As the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) approaches the end of its current strategic plan, Discovery 2023: Renewing the Vision, it is time to initiate the process for development of a new Multi-Year Strategic Plan to provide ambitious goals and direction for the DCDSB in the years ahead.

The new Multi-Year Strategic Plan will be implemented from January 2023 to June 2026. It is the intention of the Board to ensure that the development of the new Multi-Year Strategic Plan is informed by diverse and multiple perspectives. The development process will include a variety of opportunities for engagement with board and community partners, including students, families, staff, and parishes and will be overseen by the Multi-Year Strategic Plan Committee.

As part of the strategic planning process, DCDSB is seeking the input and feedback of students, staff, families, parishes, and community stakeholders. You can keep apprised of our consultation sessions and the planning process by visiting our dedicated Strategic Planning Webpage.

How can you get involved?

On Wednesday, May 4, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. we will be conducting a Live Zoom Webinar with Morgan Ste. Marie, Chair of the Board of Trustees, and Tracy Barill, Director of Education.

Please note that all staff, students, community partners and parishes are invited to attend this Zoom webinar and participate in the live Question-and-Answer period. Click here to attend the May 4, 2022 Zoom webinar
If you are unable to join the live session, it will be recorded and posted to our Board website along with a Thought Exchange link where you can share your ideas about our mission and future priorities. The Thought Exchange will remain open and active during the month of May.
Email your thoughts to strategicplanning@dcdsb.ca

We look forward to hearing from you. The new Multi-Year Strategic Plan will be brought to the DCDSB Board of Trustees to be voted on in fall 2022.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

Grade 7-10 Human Trafficking Youth Prevention Symposium

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 14:15:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Caregivers, and Community Members,

Victim Services of Durham Region is reaching out to inform you of our 3rd Annual Human Trafficking Prevention Youth Symposium taking place on Thursday March 24th 2022 in Grade 7, 8, 9, and 10 classrooms across Durham Region. The aim of our symposium is to educate young people on issues related to human trafficking, including the topics of consent, healthy relationships, gender empowerment, and online safety. Our goal is to equip youth with the critical knowledge and tools to support them in navigating the complex realities that come with being a young person in today’s online world and empower them to make informed choices about their well-being. In doing so, we will simultaneously be working to reduce youth experiences of violence and exploitation.

Youth will have the opportunity to hear from a variety of relatable speakers who are experts in the content areas mentioned above. After listening to the speaker videos, the youth will engage in follow-up activities in their classrooms which will provide them with the opportunity to reflect on the content they have learned to ensure safer interactions both online and off. On the day of the symposium, there will be resources available for students should they wish to access support. Victim Services of Durham Region’s Crisis Intervention Counsellors as well as school mental health support staff from your youth’s school board will be available for follow-up support and intervention.

In addition, we will be hosting a Parents and Prevention workshops following the date of the symposium for parents, caregivers, and community members to learn more about human trafficking awareness/prevention efforts. Our Parents and Prevention workshops assist attendees in understanding how to recognize risk factors and early red flags to prevent youth from being trafficked. These events are free and are hosted monthly online via Zoom. During the workshop session, we will:

understand how domestic sex trafficking occurs in Ontario
learn how youth can be recruited and lured in
learn how to identify if someone is being trafficked
understand online safety
identify safe adults and supports
hear from a survivor/parent of a survivor

To sign-up for our March Parents and Prevention Night workshop, please visit https://tinyurl.com/PPNMarch22 and register on Eventbrite to confirm your spot.

We thank you for your continued support in making our communities safer and healthier for youth.

Sincerely,

Julia Cusato (Human Trafficking Prevention Facilitator) - jcusato@drps.ca

Shannon Young (Grant and Research Manager) - syoung@drps.ca
605 Rossland Road East, Box 911 – Whitby, ON L1N 0B8

"Into the Horizon" DCDSB Student Art Exhibit at the Robert McLaughlin Gallery

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 14:15:00 GMT

Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is pleased to announce the 2025 student art exhibit at the Robert McLaughlin Gallery (RMG). DCDSB’s student art show, Into the Horizon, will be available for the public to view free-of-charge from February 28, 2025, until March 16, 2025. This year’s show features?over 100 pieces of artwork created by students in Kindergarten to Grade 12.

Schools across the DCDSB submitted student work to be part of the exhibit. The art on display includes various mediums such as paintings, sculptures, photography, charcoal, digital artwork and more.

“The DCDSB Into the Horizon exhibit celebrates the creativity of our students, and we are very proud of their work,” said Jim Wilson, Superintendent of Education. “This exhibit is a fantastic opportunity for our Durham Catholic families and community members to come together to celebrate the efforts of our student artwork."

Adrianna S., a Grade 8 student from St. Bridget Catholic School is excited to share her artwork with friends and family. “I’m absolutely thrilled to have my art exhibited at the Robert McLaughlin Gallery,” Adrianna said. “I’m very excited to see my artwork displayed alongside the work of other students who share the same passion for art as I do.” Adrianna submitted a charcoal sketch of Harry Potter, which was inspired by recent class readings, as well as a painting of a mystical dragon in vibrant acrylics on canvas.

Leila Timmins, Senior Curator at the RMG is proud to be hosting DCDSB student artwork again at the Gallery. “We’d like to congratulate all the students featured in this year’s Into the Horizon exhibition. The works are phenomenal,” Leila said. “We encourage students and their families to visit the gallery to see this amazing installation in person.”

The DCDSB and the RMG would like to recognize the dedicated educators and staff who have nurtured student creativity and expression, making this exhibit possible. We would like to express our gratitude to the students involved for sharing their talents.

Visit the RMG’s website at rmg.on.ca for hours of operation. Admission to the RMG is always free.

June 2021 - DCDSB's Celebrating Student Success Newsletter

Fri, 25 Jun 2021 16:00:00 GMT

Read the latest issue of the Durham Catholic District School Board's Student Success newsletter. This month’s issue features stories on:

Exploring Pathways: The Robert McLaughlin Gallery Hosts Durham Catholic District School Board Virtual Art Exhibit.
Experiential Learning: COVID-19 Co-op: No Fear Home Placement is Here!; DO’C Co-op in 2021 – Teaching, Pandemic Style!; Grade 7 Student from All Saints Participates in Eco Schools Young Reporters for the Environment Competition; Students at Monsignor Phillip Coffey Developing Coding Skills.
Student Voice: Regional Arts & Media Program Students at All Saints Catholic Secondary School Thank Healthcare and Essential Workers at Lakeridge Health; DCDSB Asian Heritage Month Resources; All Saints Catholic Secondary School Named Number One Secondary School in Terry Fox Fundraiser.
English as a Second Language (ESL): Students at Sir Albert Love Celebrate National Indigenous History Month.
Adult and Continuing Education: Register for Summer School Programs with Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre.

Upcoming Events:

June 27 – Canadian Multiculturalism Day
June 28 - Virtual graduation ceremonies for All Saints Catholic Secondary School, Archbishop Denis O'Connor Catholic High School and Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School
June 29 - Virtual graduation ceremonies for Father Donald MacLellan Catholic Secondary School, Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School, Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School, Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School and St. Mary Catholic Secondary School
June 29 - PA Day for Secondary
June 30 - PA Day for Elementary and Secondary
July 15 - Repeat of parent/guardian virtual speaker series: Thriving, Not Just Surviving, Another Pandemic Summer
August 19 - Parent/guardian virtual speaker series: Supporting your Child’s Mental Health Through the Impact of Racism and Oppression
August 23 - Welcome and Orientation for Newcomers to Canada through SWIS Durham
August 25 - Newcomer Orientation Week for high school students through SWIS Durham

Stay connected and sign up to receive the newsletter directly in your inbox.

Durham Catholic District School Board's Supervised Alternative Learning Committee Seeks Community Representative

Thu, 23 May 2019 15:30:00 GMT

The Supervised Alternative Learning Committee (SAL) of the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is seeking a community representative to join the team.

Learn more about the Community Representative role.

Spring Issue of DCPIC Newsletter Now Available

Tue, 05 May 2020 19:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As we continue our efforts to flatten the curve, I hope you and your family are staying safe and at home. Our Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) is keeping all of you in our hearts and prayers during this challenging time.

The latest issue of the DCPIC newsletter is now available. This issue of the newsletter includes:

A message from the Chair;
2020 Distinguished Catholic Volunteers Awards;
Complete the 2020 DCPIC Parent Survey;
Wellness and Mental Health Resources;
Keep Learning Resources;
Thank You Front Line Workers; and
Meeting Dates.

For more information about the committee, visit dcpic.ca or email chair@dcpic.ca.

Yours in faith,

Melissa Bevan,
Chair of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee

2023-2024 Director's Annual Report

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 14:45:00 GMT

Dear DCDSB Community,

It is with great pride and gratitude that I present the 2023-2024 Director’s Annual Report: Speaking With the Heart. This past year has been an incredible journey of growth, achievement, and commitment to our renewed mission to be an inclusive Catholic learning community that inspires every student to achieve their full potential through faith and education.

We were inspired once again by the words of Pope Francis for our 2023-2024 Spiritual Theme, Speaking with the Heart. Noted during his message for the 57th World Day of Social Communications, Pope Francis said, “it is the heart that spurred us to go, to see and to listen, and it is the heart that moves us towards an open and welcoming way of communicating.” Throughout the year, we reflected on the spiritual theme as a Catholic learning community, and what it means to communicate “according to God's style”, welcoming encounters with others as “heart speaks to heart.”

By working together, our students, families, staff, parish and community partners collaborate to create learning environments where students can grow academically, spiritually and personally. The stories and achievements highlighted in this report are a result of the collaborative efforts and shared vision that drive our Durham Catholic learning community forward. In this report, you will see that we have celebrated accomplishments related to student achievement, student success, innovative programming, community partnerships and projects, and faith-based initiatives.

I extend my sincere appreciation to students, staff, families, Board of Trustees, and parish and community partners, for your ongoing engagement and dedication to supporting Catholic education in Durham Region. Together, we will continue to build upon our successes to support all students as we focus on supporting faith & well-being, advancing human rights, equity and Indigenous Education, and improving student learning.

May God bless all in our Durham Catholic learning community as we strive to listen, learn and live in faith together.

Yours in hope and faith,

Gerard Winn
Director of Education

DCDSB's Distance Learning Plan

Sat, 04 Apr 2020 21:00:00 GMT

April 4, 2020

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Within our Catholic learning community, faith is embedded in everything we do. In the week ahead we will be embarking on teacher-led distance learning. At the same time, we will continue to celebrate and honour our faith-based traditions with our Durham Catholic family recognizing that beginning tomorrow, we will also be entering Holy Week, the most sacred time in our Catholic Liturgical Calendar. May this be a time when we hold our family close and remember our broader Durham Catholic community in prayer.

As you are aware, the Ministry of Education announced this week that schools will remain closed until May 4, 2020. Our staff has been working to address technology tools and access with families. We want you to know that we will continue to support the education needs of our students and have developed A Guide to Distance Learning for DCDSB Parents and Guardians. This plan involves teacher-led learning delivered through Edsby, Office 365 and/or D2L Brightspace.

Our plan aligns with the Ministry of Education’s Phase 2 Learn at Home Plan and provides guidelines on subject areas being taught, hours of student work and assessment and evaluation. Below are some of the guidelines:

Kindergarten-Grade 3: six hours of work per student/week (focus on Literacy, Math and Religion)
Grades 4-6: six hours of work per student/week (focus on Literacy, Math, Science, Social Studies and Religion)
Grades 7-8: 11 hours of work per student/week (focus on Math, Literacy, Science, History/Geography and Religion)
Grades 9-12: three hours of work per course per week

Beginning Monday, April 6, teachers will start to post lessons and clarify expectations with their students. They will work diligently to deliver a learning experience that is consistent with the guidelines provided by the Ministry of Education. Our staff members are looking forward to reconnecting with their students.

For those families who completed our survey or have connected with the school, plans are underway to distribute the technology your child will require as soon as possible. Your child’s Principal will contact you with the necessary details. Do not worry, we will work with each individual situation so that your child will not fall behind.

Special Education

As part of our Distance Learning Plan, teachers will provide students with learning materials and supports that are consistent with the goals and expectations in their Individualized Education Plan (IEP). Program Support Teachers will provide additional and specialized support for students who have Alternative expectations in their IEP. A full explanation of special education supports is provided in our Parent’s Guide to the DCDSB Special Education Distance Learning Plan. Parents and guardians are also encouraged to visit the Special Education section of our Keep Learning webpage. This webpage includes online resources and tip sheets to support learning at home for students with special education needs.

Edsby Help

Earlier this week, we asked families to become familiar with Edsby and to log into the platform. Thank you to all who have taken the time to log in. If you have not signed in, please visit dcdsb.ca/Edsby to access step-by-step video instructions. If you are experiencing a problem with Edsby, please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions. If you require further clarification or support, please contact your school directly. A staff member will be in touch with you to assist.

These are truly unprecedented times with information changing hourly, but it is important to remember that you are not alone. If you need help, we have posted a link to a list of community agencies available to assist with financial services, mental health, food, shelter and more.

Yours in faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

DCDSB News - June 2024 Edition

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 18:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

The June 2024 edition of the DCDSB News is now available! This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what’s happening across the DCDSB.

This newsletter includes:

Faith
- June is Dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus
- Parish-Based Summer Camps

Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation
- Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation Gala
- June 2024 Student Walk for Hope

Indigenous Education in Action
- National Indigenous History Month
- Indigenous Education Highlights

DCDSB Updates
- 2024-2024 School Year Calendars
- Ontario Government Announces Funding to Provide New Catholic Elementary School and Additional Pupil Spaces in Oshawa
- 2023-2024 Board Awards
- Pride Month

Mental Health and Well-Being
- Secondary Student Mental Health Leadership Summit
- How to Understand and Support Your child or Adolescent with their Screen Use

DCDSB Student Spotlight
- Nathan, St. Jude Catholic School

School Spotlight
- St. Bernadette Catholic School

DCDSB Students
- End of Year Trip to Station Gallery and Abilities Centre
- Archbishop Denis O’Connor Catholic High School Robotics Team
- St. Mary Catholic Secondary School Builds Outdoor Classroom
- Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School Students Explore Darlington Energy Centre
- Relay for Life at Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School
- DCDSB Students Participate in the Forest of Reading Celebration
- Grade 7 Students Participate in Created in the Image of God: I Am Because We Are (Ubuntu)
- DCDSB Students Attend Skills Ontario Competition
- St. Bridget Catholic School Presents Frozen Jr.
- Fred Fox Visits All Saints Catholic Secondary School
- St. Leo Catholic School Craft Club Fundraiser in Support of the Whitby Hospice
- St. Mary Catholic Secondary School Student Athletes Make U17 Canadian National Wrestling Team and Will Represent Canada at the Pan American Wrestling Championships

Continuing Education
- Spots Still Available for Elementary and Secondary Summer Courses and Programs
- Young Parent School Program at Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre

Upcoming Events

Durham Region Health Department - Grade 7 Immunizations

Tue, 08 Mar 2022 15:30:00 GMT

Dear Parent/Guardian:

The following information is being shared on behalf of the Durham Region Health Department.

Students in Grade 7 had the opportunity in the past to receive school-based immunization including Hepatitis B, Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Meningococcal Conjugate ACYW135 vaccines at their school. As you are aware, the pandemic has prevented the Durham Region Health Department (DRHD) from offering these clinics in schools so many students missed the opportunity to receive these important immunizations.

DRHD is pleased to inform you we will be offering community immunization clinics for eligible Grade 7-12 students in April, May, and June by appointment only. The clinics will in held in Oshawa Sears and Pickering Recreation Centre community immunization clinic locations and one clinic in both Uxbridge Secondary School and Brock High School. Students will be able to receive the COVID-19 vaccine at these sites if requested.

Please visit www.durham.ca/immunizationclinics for updates regarding further information. This website will have the appointment booking link available in the next few weeks.

In addition, we would like to inform you that due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we will not be enforcing suspensions under the Immunization of School Pupils Act for the 2021-2022 school year. However, to ensure school communities remain safe from vaccine preventable diseases an Immunization Reminder letter will be mailed directly to the homes of the students who are missing immunizations. The primary purpose of the update will be to advise parents/guardians of the immunization status of the student, and to encourage them to discuss a plan with their healthcare provider to receive missing vaccines. Parents will be encouraged to use the online reporting tool Immunization Connect Ontario (ICON) tool to report to the Health Department directly if your child has received any immunizations.

If you have any questions, please call Durham Health Connection Line at 905-666-6242 or 1-800-841-2729 or visit our website www.durham.ca/immunizationclinics

Sincerely,

Immunization Program
Durham Region Health Department

Return to School Delayed Until January 5, 2022

Fri, 31 Dec 2021 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Late this afternoon, the Chief Medical Officer of Health announced the delayed start of school until Wednesday, January 5, 2022 for all elementary and secondary school students. Click here to view the announcement. This decision has been made as a result of a sharp increase in the number of positive COVID-19 cases being confirmed in the province.

Please be advised that there will be no school (in person or virtual) for any DCDSB students on January 3 or January 4, 2022. According to the Ontario Government announcement, students will return to learning on January 5, 2022.

As a reminder, all students will be required to complete a Confirmation of COVID-19 Self-Assessment prior to attending in-person learning on January 5.

Safety Measures
Additional safety measures to ensure schools are safe for in-person learning are listed below:

The COVID-19 school and child care screener will be updated prior to the return to school on January 5.
Parents and guardians are asked to ensure daily, careful self-assessment of their children and no one should enter the school who is having symptoms.
Non-fit-tested N95 masks will be provided to staff in schools and licensed child care settings as an optional alternative to medical/surgical masks.
Students are strongly encouraged to wear high-quality three-ply cloth masks. Three-ply cloth masks will be available to students who require a mask upon the return to school in January.
The Government of Ontario is deploying an additional 3,000 stand alone HEPA filter units to school boards, building on the existing 70,000 HEPA filter units and ventilation devices already in schools.
Beginning in January 2022, high contact sports and music classes will be paused. At this time, only low-contact indoor sports and safe extra-curricular activities will be offered.

We will provide families with updates as more information becomes available.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding as we endeavour to support these enhanced measures to keep our community safe. Please join me in praying for the sick and all those who have experienced loss or suffering during this holiday season.

School offices will reopen to respond to phone or email inquiries on Monday, January 3, 2022. Parents and guardians are asked to refrain from going to the school in person prior to January 5, 2022.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

DCDSB News: October 2021

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 16:15:00 GMT

DCDSB News: October 2021
A monthly newsletter to keep parents and guardians informed of DCDSB news, events, and highlights.

Message from the Chair of the Board and the Director of Education
Canada is a country that is blessed to experience four beautiful, awe-inspiring seasons each year. As we begin to see the green of summer make way for the vibrant colours of fall, we traditionally pause with family and friends to gather and give thanks.

As a Community of Faith, there is so much to be thankful for this October. Our students are back in school, learning either in-person or virtually. While the pandemic has had an immeasurable impact on everyone’s lives, we now take notice of the small things like the sound of students’ voices playing in the yard at recess and the joy of being able to reconnect with friends, and colleagues. Please read the full message on our website.

Tulips for Truth
On September 30, 2021 we observed the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day. This day commemorates the tragic effects of residential schools in Canada and the continuing impacts on Indigenous communities while seeking to ensure that the devastating history and ongoing legacy of residential schools is never forgotten.

In recognition of the lives lost, the DCDSB launched Tulips for Truth. As part of this initiative 25,000 tulips were planted in honour of the Indigenous peoples whose lives have been lost due to the residential school system. DCDSB staff, students and families are invited to donate towards the planting of each tulip. All funds raised from the Tulips for Truth initiative will go to The First Nations Child and Family Caring Society.

Community of Faith: St. Mary Catholic Secondary School
At the Durham Catholic District School Board, the spiritual theme this year calls us to reflect on what it means to be A Community of Faith. At St. Mary Catholic Secondary School, the Retreat Leadership Class is doing just that.

Please click here to view a video with students and staff involved in the Retreat Leadership Course at St. Mary Catholic Secondary School.

Post-Secondary Education Virtual Information Sessions
Grade 9-12 students and families are invited to learn more about:

Post-Secondary Programs
Application Processes

Q&A Sessions to follow with Student Recruitment Officers from Ontario Institutions.

Ontario Colleges and Apprenticeships: October 6, 2021 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Click here to access the Microsoft Teams event.

Ontario Universities: October 7, 2021 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Click here to access the Microsoft Teams event.

For further information and to download the poster please visit our website.

Franco-Ontarian Day
Le Conseil scolaire catholique de la région de Durham reconnaît la riche culture des francophones et francophiles vivant en Ontario et leurs contributions importantes dans les communautés de langue française de notre province. Au soutien de nos communautés francophones, nous avons célébré la Journée des Franco-Ontariens le vendredi 24 septembre 2021. L'école secondaire catholique Notre-Dame a organisé une cérémonie en plein air avec les élèves secondaires et le personnel du programme de français langue seconde où nous avons fièrement élevé le drapeau Franco-Ontarien ensemble.

The Durham Catholic District School Board recognizes the rich culture of Francophones living in Ontario and the significant contributions of the French-speaking community in this province. In support of the Francophone community in Ontario, we celebrated Franco-Ontarian Day on Friday, September 24, 2021. Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School hosted an outdoor ceremony with our French-speaking secondary students and staff, and we proudly raised the Franco-Ontarian Flag together.

DCDSB Student Indigenous Advisory Circle: Learning on the Land
On September 22, 2021, students from the DCDSB’s Student Indigenous Advisory Circle engaged in learning on the land at Cedar Valley Conservation Area in Oshawa. Seven students in Grades 7-12 from across DCDSB joined Beedahbin Peltier who led students in learning about plant knowledge and traditional Anishinaabe plant medicine. Beedahbin started with discussing Gabaa'aagemish (sweet fern, also known as Comptonia peregina) and the ways sweet fern can be harvested and used to heal gut issues and help with digestion and stress. Students were invited to sample sweet fern tea as part of this learning.

In Anishinaabeg tradition, newborns are provided with the gift of land (such as dirt) in one hand, and a shaker in the other hand. Newborn babies are then wrapped in a receiving towel that is soaked in sweet fern. Babies are wrapped in this way as it mimics the feeling of the womb and introduces them to a specific microbiome.

Students were taught ways to view, respect and learn about the land and plants. For example, students were encouraged to question what communication are these plants telling us? What do they do in nature, where does it live, what lives with it, what does it do for nature, and what does it do for us? An emphasis was placed on respecting nature and looking after it – not just ourselves. Students were encouraged to think about harvesting and interacting with nature in sustainable ways as we want to ensure future generations will still have access to these plants and the land.

Beedahbin discussed ways traditional plant medicines can help keep hormones in balance, ways to access zinc to be used as a natural sunscreen and ways to use plants to heal the itch of a mosquito bite.

Beedahbin also explained that in traditional Anishinaabeg culture, the children’s job is to spread seeds, teen/young adults are there to harvest, adults are to harvest and process, and the elder’s job is to share knowledge and "keep up with the youth"!

DCDSB would like to thank Beedahbin Peltier and our Student Indigenous Education Advisory Circle students for joining us in this learning on the land. Miigwech (thank you)!

The next Student Indigenous Education Advisory Circle will take place on November 25, 2021. We welcome new Grade 7-12 students to join the circle, and encourage students to contact us at IndigenousEducation@dcdsb.ca to learn more.

Working With Your School to Access Support for Your Child’s Mental Health
If you’re concerned about your child or teen’s mental health or general well-being, you can work with your school to help make sure your child gets the support they need. Early identification of mental health concerns can help prevent future problems.

The best place to start is by having a conversation with your child’s classroom teacher. If you’re comfortable, you may wish to share information such as situations your child has dealt with that may impact their mental health; approaches that seem to help your child; and behaviours that you’ve been noticing at home. You may want to ask their teacher if they’ve noticed similar behaviours at school. Having an open and honest discussion will help you figure out together, the best way to help.

Educators and other school staff are trained on how to create mentally healthy classrooms and how to recognize when a student may be struggling and in need of additional help. Educators aren’t mental health professionals; but they do have an important role to play in the circle of support for students.

After this initial step, you or the school may request a School Team Meeting, which would include you, your child’s teacher, school administrator and potentially other school or board-level staff. Together, you can establish a plan for how to support your child. This may include involvement of board-level mental health professionals, and/or some suggestions for where you might seek additional support in the community.

Another venue for accessing support is through the Social Work Access Line. Durham Catholic students and families can call our Social Work Access Line and leave a voicemail with their contact information. One of our mental health professionals will call back and provide support. Note that this is not a crisis line and is not monitored 24/7. The phone number for the Access line is 905-576-6150, ext. 21021, or you can complete the online form on our website.

Student Spotlight
Welcome to Student Spotlight, an opportunity to meet and learn about our DCDSB students and how they are promoting Excellence, Equity and Engagement.

This month, we are pleased to introduce our 2021-2022 Student Trustees, Declan Amaral and Sophie Nwaoha. Please click here to view the October Student Spotlight with our Student Trustees.

Halloween, All Saints Day and All Souls Day
Halloween (October 31) or All Hallows' Eve is not a liturgical feast on the Catholic calendar, but the celebration has deep ties to the Liturgical Year. The three days — Halloween, All Saints Day and All Souls Day — call us to remember the Communion of Saints. Saints or holy people are called "hallowed," hence the name "All Hallow's Day." The evening before the feast became popularly known as "All Hallows' Eve" or even shorter, "Hallowe'en." Halloween takes place in advance of the two upcoming feasts of All Saints and All Souls Day! On All Saints Day, we rejoice and honour the saints, canonized and uncanonized in heaven and ask the Saints' intercession for us. On All Souls Day (November 2) and throughout the month of November, we remember and pray for those who have died. Click here to view an All Saints Day Prayer.

ShareLife Poster Competition
ShareLife is hosting their 14th annual ShareLife Poster Contest. Please visit the ShareLife website for further information.

Ontario Tech University STEM Opportunities for Students
Ontario Tech University has a variety of STEM clubs and opportunities available for students. To learn more visit the Ontario Tech University Engineering Outreach website.

Upcoming Events
October is dedicated to the Most Holy Rosary, Autism Awareness Month, Child Abuse Prevention Month, Dyslexia Awareness Month, Learning Disabilities Awareness Month, Principals Month, K-12 Cyber Awareness Month and International Walk to School Month.

Important dates and upcoming events in October 2021 are listed below:

Oct. 1 - Deadline to submit self-nomination form for the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC)
Oct. 1 - Deadline to apply for the Métis Nation of Ontario Christmas Gift Program
Oct. 2 - National Custodian Appreciation Day
Oct. 4 - Vigil in Honour of the Lives of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Gender Diverse People
Oct. 4 – 8 - Safe and Accepting Schools Week
Oct. 5 - World Teachers' Day
Oct. 5 - Special Education Advisory Committee Meeting
Oct. 6 - Post-Secondary Education Virtual Information Session 6:30-8:30 p.m. Topics: Ontario Colleges and Apprenticeships. Access via Microsoft Teams.
Oct. 6 - Pop-up Walk-in COVID-19 Second Dose Vaccine Clinic at St. Mary CSS at 4:30 - 5:30 p.m
Oct. 7 - Post-Secondary Education Virtual Information Session 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Topic: Ontario Universities. Access via Microsoft Teams.
Oct. 7 - National Walk to School Day
Oct. 7 - Victim Services of Durham is hosting a Parents and Prevention: Sex Trafficking During COVID-19 Workshop from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Registration is required.
Oct. 7 - Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) Meeting
Oct. 7 - Pop-up Walk-in COVID-19 Second Dose Vaccine Clinic at Monsignor John Pereyma CSS at 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Oct. 8 - PA Day for both Elementary and Secondary Schools
Oct. 10 - World Mental Health Day
Oct. 11 - Thanksgiving (Statutory Holiday)
Oct. 14 - Pop-up Walk-in COVID-19 Second Dose Vaccine Clinic at Father Leo J. Austin CSS at 4:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Oct. 18 - Pop-up Walk-in COVID-19 Second Dose Vaccine Clinic at Archbishop Denis O'Connor CHS at 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Oct. 22 - Pop-up Walk-in COVID-19 Second Dose Vaccine Clinic at Father Donald McLellan CSS/ Arch. Anthony Meagher CCEC Ajax at 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Oct. 18-24 - Waste Reduction Week in Canada
Oct. 23 - School Mental Health Ontario/Wisdom2Action: Let’s Get (Lit)erate on Mental Health virtual forum
Oct. 24-30 - Spiritual and Pastoral Care Week
Oct. 25 - DCDSB Board Meeting
Oct. 25 - Pop-up Walk-in COVID-19 Second Dose Vaccine Clinic at Arch. Anthony Meagher CCEC Whitby at 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Oct. 26 - Pop-up Walk-in COVID-19 Second Dose Vaccine Clinic at Arch. Anthony Meagher CCEC Oshawa at 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Oct. 27 - Dress Purple Day in support of child abuse prevention
Oct. 29 - Chaplain's Appreciation Day
Oct. 30 - School Mental Health Ontario/Wisdom2Action: Equity and Identity X Mental Health at School virtual forum
Nov. 1-5 - Treaties Recognition Week
Nov. 2 - All Souls Day
Nov. 3 - Grade 9 Virtual Take Our Kids to Work Day (note: Grade 9 students will attend classes as scheduled at their school and will have access to virtual resources and materials. Further details will be shared with Grade 9 students and families from their school)
Nov. 4 - Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) Meeting

Please visit our calendar for more important dates and upcoming events.

January's Issue of Celebrating Student Success Newsletter

Mon, 06 Jan 2020 21:15:00 GMT

Happy New Year! January’s issue of Durham Catholic’s Celebrating Student Success newsletter is now available. This issue features articles on:

Experiential Learning – St. Hedwig Catholic School Student Wins Mayor for a Day;
Teaching Fellow Students, the Importance of Cyber Security at St. Theresa Catholic School;
Grade 10 Drama Students in the Regional Arts & Media Program host Ted Talks;
Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School Students bring the Magic of Mary Poppins to Life on Stage;
Expanding Pathways – Discovering Pathways in the Film Industry;
Dual Credit Program allows Students to Earn a College and High School Credit;
SHSM Students from Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School travel to Ganaraska Forest Centre;
All Saints Catholic Secondary Student shares how Cooperative Education Experience has Influenced her Career Pathway;
Students in the Regional Arts & Media Program discover Career Opportunities in TV and Film;
Student Voice – Cooperative Education Students from St. Mary Catholic Secondary School share Well-being Strategies;
St. Mary Catholic Secondary School Students ask the City of Pickering to Declare a Climate Emergency;
Students Say “Think of Me” with Anti-Drinking and Driving Campaign;
Faith –Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School Students Participate in Advent Mass on Salt & Light TV;
Upcoming Events – Are you Transitioning to Secondary School? Attend an Upcoming Parent/Student Information Night.

Stay connected and sign up to receive the newsletter directly in your inbox.

DCDSB News - October 2023

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 18:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

The October 2023 DCDSB News is now available! This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what’s happening across the DCDSB.

This newsletter includes:

Autumn Harvest

Living in Faith:

Faith in Action!

DCDSB Updates:

Anti-Black Racism and Black Excellence Advisory Committee Seeking Parent Representatives
New DCDSB Math Webpages and Resources for Families
Regional Arts & Media Program Open House and Audition Workshop
Ventilation Measures Report
PA Day – October 6, 2023
Policy Input Page

Student Spotlight:

DCDB Student Spotlight – 2023-2024 Student Trustees

Parent, Guardian and Caregiver Resources:

Accessing Support for Your Child’s Mental Health

DCDSB Students:

Orange Shirt Day – National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Franco-Ontarian Day
St. Mary Students Proud to Serve at Canadian Food for Children
Durham Regional Police Service Police Chief for the Day

Continuing Education:

Custodial Services Training Program at Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre

Upcoming Events:

Recognition days and more

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Lenten Message from the Chair of the Board and Director of Education

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 14:00:00 GMT

March 2, 2022 marks the beginning of Lent, when Catholics are called to a deeper relationship with God. It is a time that strengthens us in our efforts to be more forgiving, loving and generous to others. During the 40 days of Lent, Catholics are called to prayer and repentance as we prepare for the resurrection of Jesus and the 50 days of celebration that is Easter – our most holy time of year.

As a Community of Faith, our schools, homes and parishes are committed to following Christ’s teachings through fasting, prayer and almsgiving. This year, may the Lenten season help us to turn away from selfishness and self-absorption and turn to Jesus. May we dedicate ourselves to living out the Gospel by truly loving our neighbours and praying for healing and peace at home and around the world.

We encourage families, students and staff to join us on our Lenten journey by accessing an online Lenten calendar created by our Faith Formation department. You can also visit the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee’s website for Lenten crafts and activities that you can complete at home or in the classroom.

May God bless you and your families during this Lenten season and fill you with the opportunity to strengthen your personal connection with Christ.

Yours in Faith,

Morgan Ste. Marie Tracy Barill
Chair of the Board Director of Education

Durham Catholic District School Board Director of Education Announces Retirement

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 14:30:00 GMT

At the Regular Board Meeting on February 26, 2024, Tracy Barill, Director of Education, announced her retirement after a 36-year career in Catholic education.

Director Barill began her career with DCDSB in 1988 as an Educational Assistant. Over the years, Ms. Barill went on to hold positions as a classroom teacher, Vice Principal, Principal and Superintendent of Education. A valued member of the DCDSB Senior Administrative team since 2007, Ms. Barill was appointed to the position of Director of Education in 2020.

“I have been blessed to be a part of the Durham Catholic learning community for most of my life, beginning as a student at St. Joseph’s when I was in Grade 4,” said Tracy Barill, Director of Education. “I am deeply grateful for the many, valued relationships formed with students, families, and colleagues who I have had the pleasure of working with over the years. To be entrusted with leading the Board as Director of Education has been a true honour and highlight of my life.”

During Ms. Barill’s tenure as Director, the DCDSB expanded to include new schools and additions to accommodate a growing student population, all while leading the board through COVID-19 and unprecedented provincial labour disruptions. Throughout these challenges, Ms. Barill maintained a focus on student needs while managing a balanced budget.

Grounded in faith and committed to innovations in instructional practice, Ms. Barill led Durham Catholic through a collaborative consultation and development process to establish the board’s new multi-year plan, Inspire 2026. Through a comprehensive engagement strategy, new mission, vision and values statements for the board were adopted to accompany and inform the new strategic plan.

Director Barill is a strong advocate for advances in Indigenous Education and Human Rights and Equity, focusing on improving student achievement and well-being, and breaking down systemic barriers for vulnerable and/or equity deserving groups. Under Ms. Barill’s direction, the board established Indigenous Education and Human Rights and Equity departments for the first time, which have flourished over the years. These departments now facilitate various initiatives and committees, including the Indigenous Education Circle, Anti-Black Racism and Black Excellence Advisory Committee, 2SLGBTQ+ Advisory Committee, and related affinity and support groups for students. Ms. Barill’s belief in embedding community engagement and centring community voice has been integral in creating these new strategic priorities for the board.

Director Barill focused on ensuring staff have opportunities to engage, contribute, and feel a sense of belonging as members of the Durham Catholic learning community. Her priority to improve internal communications, staff wellness, and expanded professional development opportunities, has benefited staff and students. Ms. Barill’s efforts to ensure DCDSB is a welcoming and respectful place to learn, work, and grow, was recognized this year when the board was included on the Forbes list of Canada’s Best Employers in 2024 and is the highest-ranking school board in Ontario.

In addition to her professional duties with the board, Ms. Barill advocates for Catholic education at a provincial and national level through her work with various community and educational organizations. She is proud to be this year’s President of the Ontario Catholic Supervisory Officers’ Association, which represents all Catholic Directors and Superintendents across the province.

“On behalf of the entire DCDSB community, I would like to express our sincere appreciation to Director Barill for her leadership and dedication over the years,” said Monique Forster, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “It has been an honour and a privilege to serve with Director Barill, whose focus on centring students and empowering student voice is a constant reminder of who we are here to serve. Her vast knowledge, experience, and commitment to Catholic education are unparalleled. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we wish Ms. Barill all the very best in her retirement.”

“It has been an honour to serve our Durham Catholic learning community for the past 36 years,” said Tracy Barill. “I announce my retirement with the knowledge that the board is in competent and compassionate hands under the leadership of the Board of Trustees and Senior Administration Team.”

Director Barill will be retiring as of August 31, 2024. The Board of Trustees will begin the selection process for the next Director of Education over the next few months. As part of the succession plan, Ms. Barill will work with the new Director to ensure a smooth transition.

There's Still Time to Complete DCDSB's Student Census

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 13:00:00 GMT

There’s still time to complete the Stand Up, Be Counted, Be Heard Student Census. If you want to make your voice count, be sure to complete the census by Friday, April 29!

We ask that parents and guardians please check your personal email account for an email from Permission Click entitled DCDSB – your Child’s name – Student Census. This email was sent on Monday, April 25. We encourage you to complete the census with your child(ren).

This voluntary and optional census will help the DCDSB understand and support the diversity of students and families, eliminate barriers to student success, enrich students’ learning by providing the right supports at the right time while making schools a safer, more welcoming space to belong to. If you are not comfortable answering a question please move to the next question. If you do not wish to participate in the census then you are not required to complete the survey.

Visit dcdsb.ca/studentcensus for more information.

We Walk the Path Together - Self Identify Your Indigenous Ancestry

Thu, 06 Jun 2019 16:00:00 GMT

Dear Durham Catholic Parents and Guardians,

June is National Indigenous History Month; an opportunity to honour the heritage, contributions and cultures of Indigenous peoples across Canada.

In recognition, the Durham Catholic District School Board is encouraging parents and guardians of students under the age of 18 with First Nations, Métis and Inuit ancestry (Status, Non-Status) to self-identify their Indigenous ancestry. Students 18 years of age and older are also encouraged to voluntarily self-identify their ancestry. Proof of ancestry is not a requirement.

If you have already self-identified, we ask you to complete the online self-identification form again or check with your school’s secretary to ensure our records are up-to-date.

Visit dcdsb.ca/IndigenousEducation to complete the online Self-Identification of Indigenous Ancestry form (https://dcdsb.formbuilder.ca/Indigenous-Ancestry-Form).

For additional information, contact our Teaching and Learning Consultant for Indigenous Education at 905-576-6150 ext. 22291.

DCDSB 2023-2024 EQAO and OSSLT Results

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 17:00:00 GMT

The Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) provides Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) board, school and individual student reports based on the results of annual student provincial assessments. The 2023-2024 reports are now available and include data from the Primary and Junior assessments, Grade 9 Mathematics, and the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT). These EQAO reports, used in conjunction with report card grades, learning skills, and in-class evaluations, can help educators, students and families identify achievements and areas for improvement to ensure student success.

Below are the board and provincial results of students achieving at or above the provincial standards for each area of testing.

EQAO Assessment	DCDSB Results	Provincial Results
Grade 3 Reading	69%	71%
Grade 3 Writing	60%	64%
Grade 3 Math	56%	61%
Grade 6 Reading	85%	82%
Grade 6 Writing	84%	80%
Grade 6 Math	51%	50%
Grade 9 Math	52%	52%
OSSLT (Grade 10)*	88%	85%

*First time eligible students are captured in this data.

DCDSB is pleased to report that the Grade 6, Grade 9, and OSSLT assessments meet or exceed the provincial results this year. Provincially, Grade 3 assessments have experienced a slight decrease from the previous year and DCDSB results reflect a similar trajectory. To improve student achievement results we have implemented several strategies, with a particular focus on our early learners.

These include:

Specialized intervention teachers working in priority classrooms to close learning gaps in literacy and numeracy.
Universal Reading Screening of all students in Year 2 Kindergarten to Grade 2 to identify foundational reading skills.
Professional Development for teachers and literacy leads to support foundational reading skills.
MathUP, a Canadian text and teacher resource, has been purchased for all classrooms in Grades K-9.
Purchase of a digital math tool for students in Grades 1-8 to reinforce learning in the classroom.
Math resources for families available on the DCDSB website, including games, activities and links to free online tutoring.

The insights provided from the EQAO data will be used along with other assessment and evaluation data to improve student learning and student success. Individual school, board and provincial results can be found at: https://www.eqao.com/results/

Share Your Thoughts on Our Multi-Year Plan Implementation

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 14:00:00 GMT

Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is committed to open and ongoing engagement with students, staff, families, and community partners. We recently launched our new multi-year plan, Inspire 2026, and we want to hear your thoughts and suggestions on implementation and what we should consider for future planning.

This brief video summarizes our new mission, vision, and values, along with the framework and priorities in our new multi-year plan.

All students, staff, families, and community members are invited to participate in the following ThoughtExchange question:

What do you think is going well in terms of the implementation of our multi-year plan, Inspire 2026, and what suggestions do you have for our future planning?

Please click here to participate in this ThoughtExchange.

Feedback received from the ThoughtExchange will help to monitor and inform the implementation and monitoring process of our new multi-year plan.

We ask that participants be respectful when participating, to lend to thoughtful and open discussions about our whole board. Please do not include ideas/comments that name or refer to specific students or staff or individual situations as thoughts of this nature will be removed.

How does ThoughtExchange Work?

ThoughtExchange is an anonymous platform and will allow you to share your thoughts and rate the thoughts and ideas of others. Participants confidentially share their answers to a question and can rate the ideas/answers that others have submitted. All thoughts and ratings are anonymous.

This ThoughtExchange will be available until Friday, December 22, 2023.

If you have any questions, please contact communications@dcdsb.ca.

Kindergarten Gradual Entry - September 2021

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 16:15:00 GMT

Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is looking forward to welcoming your child to Kindergarten in the 2021-2022 school year. This year, the spiritual theme calls us to reflect on what it means to be A Community of Faith. Our DCDSB Community of Faith is one of acceptance and respect for each individual because we are the body of Christ.

Children arrive in Kindergarten as unique individuals shaped by their experiences and at different stages of development. We recognize that these past two years have been unusual for you and your child due to the pandemic. As such, DCDSB has planned a gradual start for Junior and Senior Kindergarten students to ensure the best start possible for our youngest learners.

Children will be welcomed to school in small groups at the beginning of the school year. They will have the opportunity to get to know their Kindergarten educators (Early Childhood Educator and Teacher) and some of their classmates. Kindergarten educators will introduce children to classroom routines and procedures, supporting the transition on a more individual basis through these smaller groups.

Transitioning to school in smaller groups during Kindergarten Gradual Entry provides Kindergarten educators with sufficient time to support your child, so they will feel comfortable and valued as new school community members.

Please contact your school Principal if you require any accommodations (due to child care, etc.) during the Kindergarten Gradual Entry process. Thank you for supporting your child during this transition to school.

Your child will be assigned to a small group. Please see the schedule below for the first week of school.

Tuesday, September 7, 2021

Wednesday, September 8, 2021

Thursday, September 9, 2021

Friday,
September 10, 2021

Group A

Group B

Group C

Group D

Group A

Group C

Group B

Group D

Reminders for the first day of school:

Before you leave the house, please complete the COVID-19 School and Child Care Screening.
Arrive early and take your child around the school to orient them to their new environment.
Show them where you will pick them up at the end of the day or where their child care/caregiver will meet them.
Masks are required on school grounds for all parents/guardians/caregivers and children in Grades 1-12.
Send your child a nut-free lunch and two snacks.
We highly encourage you to send your child with a mask.
Send your child with an extra set of clothes and an extra mask in a breathable bag with their name on it.
Send your child with a refillable water bottle labeled with their name.
Send your child with a pair of indoor shoes, if possible, with their name clearly labeled on them.

Please note that all updates regarding the 2021-2022 school year will be posted to the DCDSB’s Return to Learning webpage.

We look forward to welcoming your child to the Durham Catholic District School Board.

5th Annual Durham Catholic Children's Foundation Gala

Tue, 27 Mar 2018 13:15:00 GMT

Tickets are on sale for the 5th Annual Durham Catholic Children's Foundation Gala
honouring Bishop Vincent Nguyen and our Distinguished Alumni

Featuring Foundation Board Member, Principal Jim Raper as Master of Ceremonies; and Distinguished Catholic Alumni Luke Stocking from Development and Peace as Guest Speaker.

Proceeds will go to the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation.
To purchase tickets online or learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.durhamcatholicfoundation.ca

Early bird prize draw: Guest who purchase tickets by Friday, April 6, 2018 will be entered into a draw to win an iPad.

DCDSB Announces the 2024 Distinguished Catholic Alumni Award Recipients

Fri, 17 May 2024 12:30:00 GMT

On Thursday, May 16, 2024, the Durham Catholic District School Board recognized seven graduates at the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation gala. A graduate from each Durham Catholic secondary school received the Distinguished Catholic Alumni Award.

“We are pleased to recognize our Distinguished Catholic Alumni Award recipients who have made incredible contributions to their chosen field,” said Tracy Barill, Director of Education. “These awards are an opportunity for us to celebrate the God-given gifts of our Durham Catholic graduates who are making a difference in their communities.”

Congratulations to the 2024 Durham Catholic Distinguished Alumni Award recipients:

Mark Coghlan, All Saints Catholic Secondary School
Roger Santiago, Archbishop Denis O’Connor Catholic High School
Owen Brady, Father Leo. J. Austin Catholic Secondary School
Jalisa A. Simons, Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School
Caroline Kassee, Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School
Saroya Tinker, Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School
Dr. Ian Mayne, St. Mary Catholic Secondary School

Visit the Distinguished Catholic Alumni Award webpage to learn more about the award recipients.

Confirmation of COVID-19 Self-Assessment Required in January 2022

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 20:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As we prepare for the start of the Christmas holidays, we want to share important information regarding self-screening for students who return to in-person learning in January 2022.

Confirmation of Self-Screening

The Ministry of Education has instructed Ontario School Boards to complete active screening for all students, staff and visitors to our schools following Christmas break during the month of January 2022. All students and staff are required to conduct daily screening for symptoms of COVID-19 before attending school using the COVID-19 school screening tool. Please do not send your child(ren) to school if they have symptoms or have not passed the self-screening tool.

To meet these requirements, parents, guardians and students are required to follow the directions below.

Elementary Students

A Self-Assessment Confirmation Booklet (see attached) is available for the month of January. This document will be printed by schools, and provided to every student. You will note that the booklet includes the checklist of self-screening symptoms and a “calendar” for the month of January with a box for the parent/guardian signature each day.

The first day back to school following the break is Wednesday, January 5, 2022. Parents and guardians are asked to complete the assessment and send a signed copy of the document to school with their child to confirm that your child (ren) are free of symptoms.

Secondary Students

Students must complete the self-screening tool, and confirm completion by one of the following ways:

Show the green check mark that appears on a student’s device after completing the self-assessment upon entering the school/classroom; or
Print the attached Word document and have a parent or guardian initial that the student has passed the self-assessment screening on the calendar portion of the document for the month of January 2022; or

If you do not have a printer or device, please complete the self-assessment and send a hand-written note from the student, parent, or guardian to school to confirm that they are free of symptoms.

Rapid Antigen Screening Kits – All Students

To support a safe return to school in January, rapid antigen screening kits will be provided to all students to complete voluntary screening at home over the Christmas break. A single kit containing five tests, will be sent home with each student prior to the Christmas break. Instructions on how to use the rapid antigen tests will be provided with the kit.

Travelling over the Christmas Break

The Durham Region Health Department has asked us to remind families of the federal guidelines for travel. As per the Durham Region Health Department and Government of Canada direction, unvaccinated students returning from travel outside of Canada must not attend school or childcare for 14 days after their return. Fully vaccinated students who have travelled outside of Canada and meet the requirements to be exempt from federal quarantine (including passing a pre-entry molecular COVID-19 test) to attend school upon their return. Further details can be found at the Government of Canada website. Please also review the Government of Canada’s Travel Advice and Advisories FAQ ahead of any international travel.

COVID-19 Vaccinations

COVID-19 vaccinations are still available for children age 5 and up. If you are interested in obtaining a vaccine for your child, please visit the Region of Durham website to book an appointment.

At this time, the Durham Region Health Department does not have COVID-19 vaccination clinics scheduled at DCDSB schools and there are currently no plans to have vaccines administered during school hours.

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our students, families, staff, clergy, parish communities and community partners for your cooperation and collaboration this past year. I wish you a joyous Christmas holiday filled with love, peace and hope.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

DCDSB 2024-2025 Budget Consultation

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 18:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

School and board planning for the 2024-2025 school year is underway and we want to hear from you! As a member of our Durham Catholic learning community, your feedback on what we are currently doing well, and ways we can improve, is important to us.

Listening, Learning and Living in Faith are foundational processes that form the core of DCDSB's Multi-Year Plan, Inspire 2026. Through these processes, school and board annual budget and plans will be developed and implemented under the strategic priorities of:

Supporting Faith and Well-Being;
Advancing Human Rights and Equity; and
Improving Student Learning.

We want to know your thoughts on how we are doing in these areas. What is going well? Where can we improve?

Your input will help to inform our school and board annual plans and budget for the 2024-2025 school year.

Please share your thoughts by participating in a ThoughtExchange, by answering the following question:

From your perspective, what do you feel we are doing well, and what do you think we can do to improve in the following areas: Supporting Faith & Well-Being, Advancing Human Rights & Equity, and Improving Student Learning?

Click here to participate in the ThoughtExchange.

We ask that participants be considerate when sharing thoughts so we can have respectful and open discussions about our learning community. Please do not include ideas/comments that name or refer to specific students, staff, or individual situations, as thoughts of this nature will be removed from the exchange.

How does ThoughtExchange Work?
ThoughtExchange is an anonymous platform and will allow you to share your thoughts and rate the thoughts and ideas of others. Participants confidentially share their answers to a question and can rate the ideas/answers that others have submitted. All thoughts and ratings are anonymous.

Please click here to participate in the Thought Exchange. This ThoughtExchange will be available until Friday, March 22, 2024.

Sincerely,
Durham Catholic District School Board

DCDSB - Air Quality in Durham Region

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 13:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

The safety of students and staff is a top priority for the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB).

Environment Canada has issued a Special Air Quality statement for the Durham Region as smoke plumes from forest fires in Quebec and northeastern Ontario may result in deteriorated air quality throughout the week. Current Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) values are moderate to high, indicating no need to change usual outdoor activities, however, where possible, strenuous outdoor activities should be reduced.

If you have particular health related questions, please contact your healthcare provider.

Recess and lunch hour activities can proceed as normal, however, students and staff with health conditions that can be exacerbated by wildfire smoke may need to remain indoors. Additionally, school ventilation will be adjusted as required, portable HEPA units will continue to be used throughout the schools, and where safe to do so, windows may be closed.

For tips and more information on how to protect yourself from wildfire smoke, please visit the Government of Canada website.

School staff have been made aware and will continue monitor activities accordingly. If you have any questions, please contact your school.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Register for SafeTALK Workshop - June 2, 2022

Tue, 17 May 2022 15:45:00 GMT

Make a connection. Help save a life.

Suicide is preventable. Anyone can make a difference.

SafeTALK:

• Is a half day training in suicide alertness skills

• Teaches four basic steps to create a life-saving connection

• Is widely used by professionals and the general public

HOSTED BY: Youth Suicide Prevention Durham

Date/Time: June 2, 2022, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Location: Durham Catholic District School Board,
Pope Francis Conference Centre,
652 Rossland Rd. W., Oshawa (enter off Waverley Rd, north of Rossland – follow the signs)

Cost: $15.00* (covers course materials and a light dinner)
(*if fee is a barrier to attending, please let us know when you register)

To register: email tracymckeating@murraymckinnon.ca

Lunch and Learn with Dr. Josephine Lombardi

Mon, 08 May 2017 14:15:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee invites you to attend a lunch and learn on Becoming Experts in Humanity - Understanding the Factors that Influence Human Behaviour and Limit Authentic Freedom with guest speaker Dr. Josephine Lombardi.

The lunch and learn is being held on Thursday, May 25, 2017 from 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. at the Durham Catholic District School Board’s Pope Francis Centre at 652 Rossland Road West, in Oshawa.

Join us for lunch and nourish your soul. Pre-registration is required. RSVP by clicking on the Dr. Lombardi banner located at dcpic.ca

Back to School Letter from the Minister of Education

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Dear DCDSB Learning Community,

The Honourable Paul Calandra, Minister of Education, shares back-to-school greetings with students, families and educators across the province.

Click here to read the Minister of Education's letter.

Sincerely,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Oshawa Program and Boundary Study Public Meetings

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 17:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

We wanted to send a reminder about the upcoming public meetings for the Durham Catholic District School Board’s Oshawa Program and Boundary Study. Further information on the Oshawa Program and Boundary Study can be found on our website at www.dcdsb.ca/boundaryreviews.

We also wanted to draw your attention to the new interactive boundary map that was created for the Oshawa and Program Boundary Study, and shows the proposed attendance area configurations. We are encouraging families to complete the Oshawa Attendance Area Public Survey once you have reviewed the interactive map and potential attendance area changes.

Durham Catholic District School Board is committed to an open and transparent process that allows for public input through a variety of means. We have scheduled public meetings that will be led a committee comprised of staff and Catholic School Council representatives from each DCDSB school in Oshawa. The committee has been meeting regularly since November 2022 to review options and gather information that will be shared with the communities for input. The public meetings will be an informal carousel style format, with members of the committee present to discuss the changes and listen to comments and concerns.

The following upcoming public meetings have been scheduled to present the options under consideration and to offer our parents, guardians and caregivers the opportunity to ask questions and provide input.

Tuesday, March 21, 2023
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
St. Christopher Catholic School
431 Annapolis Avenue, Oshawa

Thursday, March 23, 2023
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School
1425 Coldstream Drive, Oshawa

If you require accessible accommodations to participate in any of the public meetings, please contact Lori Jones at 905-576-6150 Ext. 22238 in advance of the meeting so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

Through this series of public meetings, board staff will compile considerations and recommendations to bring to the June 19, 2023 Regular Board meeting.

If you are unable to attend the public meetings, a webpage has also been established to share information related to the boundary review: www.dcdsb.ca/boundaryreviews. Parents, guardians and caregivers are encouraged to submit their feedback and ask any questions through the feedback form available on the boundary review webpage.

We look forward to working with you at the upcoming meetings. Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Sincerely,

Jim Wilson Scott Grieve
Superintendent of Education Superintendent of Business, Finance
Oshawa Family of Schools and Facilities Services

Support Durham Catholic Students This Giving Tuesday

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 17:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

This Giving Tuesday, we invite families to make a positive impact within our own Durham Catholic learning community. Giving Tuesday is a Global Day of Giving, and this year it falls on Tuesday, December 3, 2024.

We encourage students and families to contribute through School Cash Online (SCO) by selecting the Giving Tuesday Campaign. Your generous donations will help ensure that our students have access to essential resources like food, clothing, shelter, and more. These donations will directly support students, enabling them to fully participate in school activities such as field trips and extracurricular programs. Additionally, funds will help provide emergency support for families in need.

How You Can Help
You can make a difference by donating in one of the following ways:

Through your child(ren)’s School Cash Online (SCO) account: Simply select the Giving Tuesday Campaign. The minimum donation is $2, but you can donate more if you wish, by adding to the “quantity.” Note: SCO donations are not eligible for tax receipts.
Directly through the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation website: Donations of $25 or more made directly through the Foundation’s website are eligible for charitable tax receipts.

Your Donation’s Impact
By donating to the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation, you are helping students in need by providing them with everyday essentials such as food, housing, electricity, heat and other basic living necessities. Last year, the Foundation helped 178 students and families across 33 schools in our community. As requests for assistance continues to rise, we rely on the generosity of donors like you to meet these growing needs.

About the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation
The Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation exists to ensure that all students in Durham Region can attend school with the basic daily necessities of life provided. Through donations and signature fundraising events, the Foundation works to provide students across our learning community with access to essential resources, while supporting and promoting their well-being and helping them achieve their full potential.

To learn more about the Foundation and how your donation can make a difference, visit: www.durhamcatholicfoundation.ca

Thank you for your generosity and continued support in making a lasting difference in the lives of our students!

Yours in Faith and Service,

Bernadette Santiago, Chair
Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation

You're Invited to a 50th Anniversary Family Picnic and Outdoor Mass

Mon, 27 May 2019 19:00:00 GMT

The fun-filled day begins at:

• 11:00 a.m. - Outdoor Mass celebrated by Father Keith;

• 12:00 – 3:00 p.m. - Games, activities, performances by students and staff on the stage, a tea room and vendors/displays. Bingo will be provided by the Knights of Columbus.

Thank you to the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee for sponsoring this event. We look forward to seeing you as we celebrate 50 years of Catholic Education.

Subscribe to receive the latest School News and Events

Wed, 31 Aug 2016 01:45:00 GMT

We are excited to announce the launch of our new school website that offers a fresh look, accessible content and user-friendly features such as:

Subscribing to our school news and calendar webpages to receive regular emails on the latest news and events;
Responsive design viewable on your computer, tablet and mobile.
Type size selector and other accessible features.

How to Subscribe to our School Calendar and News Webpages?

Stay informed and receive emails about upcoming events and information. We are encouraging you to subscribe to our calendar and news webpages. View our video that demonstrates how to subscribe and start receiving the information you want from our school.

You will receive a verification email which you need to confirm before receiving our emails.

Grade 1 French Immersion Virtual Information Session

Tue, 26 Oct 2021 13:00:00 GMT

All DCDSB Year 2 Kindergarten families are invited to learn more about Grade 1 French Immersion at our virtual information session on Wednesday, November 10, 2021 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

This Grade 1 French Immersion Virtual Information Session will provide families with an overview of the program, benefits and registration process. Click here to access the Microsoft Teams event.

Please note that registration for Grade 1 French Immersion will be open from December 3, 2021 – January 14, 2022. View the attached poster for further information.

Lincoln Alexander Day - January 21

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 14:30:00 GMT

Lincoln Alexander Day is a National Day of Recognition in Canada to honour Lincoln MacCauley Alexander, a prominent Black Canadian and notable figure in the fight for racial equity for Black Canadians. He was the first Black Canadian member of Parliament (1968), first Black Canadian Cabinet Minister (1979) and the first Black Canadian Lieutenant-Governor of Ontario (1985). He served as an Airman in the Royal Canadian Airforce during World War II and in several other civic and elected positions, contributing to national development and advocating for racial equity. Lincoln Alexander Day commemorates his birthday on January 21, 1922, and has been celebrated nationally since 2015.

DCDSB will celebrate Lincoln Alexander Day on Thursday, January 19, 2023.

Last Opportunity for Families of Elementary Students to Request Switch to Learning Model

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 21:15:00 GMT

February 10, 2021

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Today I am writing to provide families with information on the last opportunity for families of elementary students to request a switch fromin-person to virtual learning or virtual to in-person learning this school year. We will attempt to approve all requests; however, requests will be dependent on staffing and available class space.

Requesting a Switch to Learning Models

If you want to switch your child from in-person to virtual learning or virtual school to in-person learning, please contact your current school principal by Thursday, February 18 at 12:00 noon and have your child’s name added to the waitlist.

It’s important to understand, that by requesting this transfer you are committing to remaining in your requested learning model for the remainder of the school year. No additional transfers will be possible this school year.

Any requests to switch learning models received after February 18 at 12:00 noon will be denied and new waitlists will not be created.

Our staff will review all requests to change learning models by March 1, 2021 and will notify families if their request can be accommodated.

I do not want to switch learning models

If you do not want to switch your current mode of learning, then you do not have to do anything. Your child will remain in their current learning model for the remainder of the school year.

Thank you for your ongoing patience as we finalize this last opportunity for elementary students to transfer modes of learning. If you have any questions, please contact your child’s school principal. I encourage you to continue to follow our www.dcdsb.ca/returntolearning web page for the latest information.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

Register for a Mental Health Event for Parents and Caregivers

Tue, 26 Mar 2019 16:30:00 GMT

Durham Talking about Mental Illness (TAMI) Coalition is hosting Mental Health Event for Parents and Caregivers. All Durham Region parents and caregivers are invited to join the Durham TAMI Coalition for a mental health event on May 7, 2019 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School, 1375 Harwood Ave., N., Ajax.

Parents will learn about mental health/illness from a mental health professional and a speaker with lived experiences.

See flyer below for additonal details.

Information on When and How to Use a Rapid Antigen Test

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 21:00:00 GMT

January 19, 2022

Dear Parents and Guardians,

In an effort to help slow the spread of COVID-19, reduce absenteeism, and to continue to support our school communities, the Durham Catholic District School Board is pleased to offer rapid antigen test kits for symptomatic students and staff.

In alignment with the updated testing guidance from Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, individuals may use rapid antigen tests if they are experiencing symptoms compatible with COVID-19. The test kit provided to you contains two rapid antigen tests. This testing option is voluntary for students, children and staff. If a symptomatic individual chooses not to participate, they are presumed positive and should isolate immediately and follow updated testing guidance: https://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/pro/programs/publichealth/coronavirus/docs/school_childcare_guidance_omicron.pdf

Please read the information below carefully, if choosing to participate.

When to Use a Take-home Rapid Antigen Screening Kit:

For individuals choosing to participate in this testing option, they must display symptoms commonly associated with COVID-19. As outlined in the updated guidance (https://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/pro/programs/publichealth/coronavirus/docs/2019_reference_doc_symptoms.pdf), this includes:
- Fever and/or chills; OR
- Cough; OR
- Shortness of breath; OR
- Decrease or loss of taste or smell; OR
- Two or more of:
  - runny nose/nasal congestion
  - headache
  - extreme fatigue
  - sore throat
  - muscle aches/joint pain
  - gastrointestinal symptoms (i.e. vomiting or diarrhea)

Symptomatic individuals must complete the rapid antigen tests at home.
If the first RAT test is positive there is no need to use the second test. A positive RAT is highly indicative that the individual has COVID-19. A positive RAT does NOT need to be confirmed with a PCR test. Positive RAT tests do NOT need to be reported to the public health unit, school or child care
If the first RAT test is negative complete the second test separated by 24-48 hours.

Using the Take-home Rapid Antigen Screening Kit:

There are 3 different varieties of rapid antigen tests that are being distributed by the province. Please see the links below for instructions on how to use each variety:

BTXN Rapid Response™: https://www.ontariohealth.ca/sites/ontariohealth/files/2022-01/BTNXSelfScreeningInstructions.pdf
SD Biosensor: https://www.ontariohealth.ca/sites/ontariohealth/files/2021-12/SDBiosensorSelfScreeningInstructions.pdf
Trimedic FaStep®: https://www.ontariohealth.ca/sites/ontariohealth/files/2022-01/Trimedic%20Self%20Screening%20Instructions.pdf

You may also reference this how-to video: https://youtu.be/EWSFJ1JoUd0

Important note: Parents or guardians may choose to administer this screening on children who may need help (i.e. younger children).

What to do after your test:

You will know the outcome of the test within 15 minutes.

If the first rapid antigen test is positive, there is no need to use the second test. A positive rapid antigen test is highly indicative that the individual has COVID-19. Positive rapid antigen tests do NOT need to be reported to the public health unit, school or child care.

If the first rapid antigen test is negative, complete the second test within 24-48 hours of the first test. If two consecutive rapid antigen tests, separated by 24-48 hours, are both negative, the symptomatic individual is less likely to have COVID-19 infection, and the individual should isolate until symptoms are improving for at least 24 hours (or 48 hours if gastrointestinal symptoms are present).

If the individual who tests positive is fully vaccinated or 11 years of age or younger, they must self-isolate for at least 5 days from symptom onset and until their symptoms have been improving for 24 hours (or 48 hours if gastrointestinal symptoms), whichever is longer in duration.

If the individual who tests positive is 12 years of age or older and is either partially vaccinated or unvaccinated they must self-isolate for 10 days from symptom onset or from the date of their test (whichever was earlier).
If the individual who tests positive is immune compromised (regardless of age and vaccination status) they must self-isolate for 10 days from the onset of symptoms, or from the date of their test (whichever came sooner).
- If symptoms persist / worsen, individuals are encouraged to seek advice from Telehealth or their health care provider.

Please note: in alignment with updated testing guidance, there is no confirmatory PCR test required if an individual tests positive. For more information about what to do if you receive a positive test results, please following the guidance found at: https://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/pro/programs/publichealth/coronavirus/docs/school_childcare_guidance_omicron.pdf

Student Code of Conduct for Distance Learning

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 13:00:00 GMT

Students participating in Distance Learning are expected to abide by the School Code of Conduct at all times. All members of the school community will continue to be responsible for adhering to the expectations in our regular school Code of Conduct, as well as the expectations outlined in this Code of Conduct for Distance Learning. This will help to ensure that our virtual learning environments are safe and accepting for all members of our school community. During the COVID-19 school closures, educators, and administrators will continue to be responsible for student behaviour and discipline.

See below for Student Code of Conduct for Distance Learning.

2023-2024 Elementary Student Demographic Survey

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 13:45:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

To assist in making evidence-based and informed decisions about supports and resource allocation, we will be conducting a Student Demographic Survey from April 22-26, 2024. Collecting demographic data allows the board to better analyze the trends and patterns in student achievement and student success.

The Student Demographic Survey offers students an opportunity to share information about their identities related to the protected grounds of the Ontario Human Rights Code (OHRC).

Completing the Student Demographic Survey
Parents/guardians of students in Kindergarten – Grade 8 will be invited to complete the survey on behalf of their child(ren) between April 22-26, 2024.

On April 22, an invitation will be sent to parents/guardians via the email address on file at their child(ren)'s school(s). The email will be sent from noreply@dcdsb.ca.
The email will include a unique, confidential link to the survey. Parents/guardians will receive a unique link/URL for each child.
To login to the survey, you will be required to enter:
- Your email address (i.e. the email address the link was sent to)
- Student number (note that the student number can be found in the student’s email address/Edsby login i.e. the numbers in their dclive email address: 123456789@dclive.ca)
- Student date of birth
The survey will take approximately 10 minutes to complete.
The survey can be translated into 130+ languages, using the “translate” button at the top right corner of the survey page. The survey will be translated using Google Translate.
Note: only one parent/guardian will be able to submit the survey. If another parent/guardian is listed, they will be able to view the responses and see the survey has been submitted but will not be able to make any changes.
If you have difficulty accessing the survey, please email TechnologySupport@dcdsb.ca for assistance. Please include the student’s name, student number, and details of the issue you are experiencing in the email to Technology Support.

The survey is voluntary – meaning you can choose if you want to complete the survey, skip questions you do not want to answer, or stop completing the survey at any time. The Student Demographic Survey is confidential and follows all privacy laws.

If you have any questions about the Student Demographic Survey, please contact your school. Should you have any questions about the data collection process, please contact StudentSurvey@dcdsb.ca.

Visit dcdsb.ca/StudentSurvey for more information and to preview the survey questions.

Thank you for participating in the DCDSB Student Demographic Survey.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill Kayode Akomolafe
Director of Education Human Rights and Equity Advisor

In Memory of Pope Francis

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 14:15:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board joins the Catholic community around the world in mourning the loss of our Holy Father, Pope Francis, who inspired us all with his unwavering hope and profound love. His Holiness reminded us that in times of sorrow, we can find strength in unity and solace in our shared faith. As we reflect on his life and legacy, let us carry forward his message of compassion and care for one another.

We offer this prayer from our Durham Catholic learning community in memory of Pope Francis.

Loving God,

With hearts both heavy with sorrow and filled with gratitude, we remember Pope Francis, your servant and our shepherd. We acknowledge the profound impact of his life, his dedication to the Church, and his tireless efforts to bring your love to all people.

We give thanks for the gift of his life, for his teachings that have illuminated our path, and for his leadership that has guided us. We are grateful for his example of humility, mercy, and compassion. His words and actions have inspired us how to love and serve one another, how to hear the cries of the poor, and how to take care of our common home, the earth.

With faith and hope, we affirm our belief in the resurrection and the promise of eternal life. May Pope Francis rest in your peace and may we all one day be united with him in the joy of your presence.

Amen.

Register for Kindergarten

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 18:45:00 GMT

Dear Parent(s) and Guardian(s):

Welcome to Kindergarten!

Our online registration system is available to enrol your child in Kindergarten for the 2020-2021 school year. Your child must be turning 4 years of age by December 31, and can enrol at a Durham Catholic school across the region if:

the child is baptized Catholic; or
a parent/guardian is Catholic;
or you provide proof of RCIC/RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Children/Adults) registration.

To enrol your child through our online registration process, visit dcdsb.ca/registration.

Once you have completed the online registration, a school staff member will be in contact with you regarding next steps. Due to current school closures, the mandatory documentation will be required when schools re-open and final admission will be confirmed at that time.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact (905) 576-6150 Ext. 22211.

We look forward to starting this learning journey with you and your child!

Victim Services of Durham Region: Sex Trafficking Education and Prevention Program

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 19:30:00 GMT

Victim Services of Durham Region empowers parents/guardians and community members with psycho-education through interactive workshops on human trafficking. The workshop will help you understand how to recognize risk factors and early red flags, to prevent youth from being trafficked. The live virtual training will be taking place on Tuesday, December 13, 2022, from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. on Zoom.

To learn more and to register please click here.

Putting Your Family's Mental Health First

Fri, 18 Dec 2020 16:45:00 GMT

It’s been a challenging year, and it’s taken a toll on the mental health of many families and children. And now, the holidays won’t be the same for many of us this year. Check out this new resource from Children's Mental Health Ontario on putting your family’s mental wellness first.

April 8 - Join us for a Holy Week Community Prayer Service

Tue, 07 Apr 2020 13:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians

During these truly unprecedented times and in honour of Holy Week, I invite you and your children to join our Durham Catholic staff for a live virtual

Holy Week Community Prayer Service

Wednesday, April 8, 2020 at 9:00 a.m.

Our Faith Formation Coordinator and Secondary School Chaplains are pleased to be hosting a live liturgy of the Stations of the Cross. All students, families and staff are invited to view this event and join us in prayer.

Visit dcdsb.ca/HolyWeek to view the service.

I encourage you to visit your parish website for information on live streaming Masses taking place this week and weekend. You can also access daily Mass on the Archdiocese of Toronto’s website.

I continue to keep you all in my prayers and wish you a blessed Easter.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

Complete the DCPIC Parent Survey

Fri, 24 May 2019 16:00:00 GMT

Dear Durham Catholic Parents and Guardians,

We want to hear from you!

We welcome input from parents, guardians and caregivers. The survey consists of five questions and will take approximately 5 minutes to complete. To complete the survey, https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JRZRXB6.

About DCPIC

Yours in Faith,

Melissa Bevan
Chair, Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee

DCDSB News: Summer 2023

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 17:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

The Summer 2023 issue of the DCDSB News is now available! Please click here to view the newsletter.

This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what's happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

2022-2023 Year-End Message and Listening With the Ear of the Heart Compilation Video
Indigenous Education
o Indigenous Education at St. Paul Catholic School
o Breaking Down Stereotypes at St. Monica Catholic School

DCDSB Updates
o   DCDSB Oshawa Program and Boundary Study Approved Recommendations
o   DCDSB 2023 - 2024 School Year Calendar
o   Student Walk for Hope
o   DCDSB is Hiring!
o   Durham Region Transit - Summer Youth Pass

DCDSB Students
o   DCDSB Student Spotlight - Tyler B.
o   All Saints Catholic Secondary School Wins Gold and Sets New Record at OFSAA
o   DCDSB Virtual Art Show
o   St. Mary Catholic Secondary School Students Collaborate with E-Nable to Send Prosthetics to Afghanistan
o   Licensed to Learn (L2L) Peer Tutoring at Durham Catholic District School Board
o   On your Mark, Get Set, Get Set, Get Set.....GO!
o   Skills Ontario Trade & Tech Mobile Classroom at Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic School

Mental Health and Well-Being
o Supports for Summer Mental Health

Continuing Education
o 2023-2024 Program Guide
o Register for Head Start

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

A Message of Remembrance

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 20:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

This week is a time of contemplation and remembrance of all those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom and those who continue to serve in peace-keeping efforts around the world.

Today, our students and staff will observe Indigenous Veterans’ Day and remember the Indigenous peoples who served our country in World War I, World War II, and the Korean War and never received the recognition they deserved for their brave contributions. We invite you to learn more about the Indigenous veterans who provided valuable skills and served as scouts, airmen, code talkers, nurses and more.

On Thursday, November 11^th, we will commemorate Remembrance Day with special prayers and services in our schools. This year marks the 100^th anniversary of the poppy being adopted as the flower of Remembrance. Inspired by Canadian poet, John McCrae’s “In Flanders Fields”, Madame Anna Guérin was named “The Poppy Lady from France,” when she had an idea to adopt the distribution of the poppy on Armistice Day as a way to raise money for veterans’ needs and to remember those who had given their lives during World War I.

As Pope Francis said, “Let us pray for peace: peace in the world and in each of our hearts.”

This month, as we remember, we also call on all our students, staff and school communities to be peacemakers. Bullying Prevention and Intervention Week will be taking place from November 15-19, 2021. We invite our school communities to join us in praying for peace in our communities, and to be grateful for the freedoms we are granted.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

Call for Nominations on the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee

Fri, 15 Sep 2017 18:00:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee is seeking nominations for six (6) Parent Members and one (1) Community Representative on the committee beginning October 2017. We are looking for strong supporters of Catholic Education who have:

Experience working with a local Catholic School Council;
An understanding of the importance of parent, family and community engagement gained through a professional or volunteer experience;
A commitment to keeping up with educational initiatives;
Strong communication skills;
Committed to engaging parents in supporting their children’s learning; and
Ability to work as a team player, resolve conflict and generate ideas.

If you are interested in volunteering and providing parent engagement at the Board level, you are encouraged to complete the following:

Parent Member

Complete the volunteer nomination form.

Community Representative

a letter indicating their interest in the position of Community member which includes:

their reasons for applying;
their interest in the Durham Catholic District School Board and Catholic
Education;
a resume outlining relevant experience;
proof of being an English Language Roman Catholic School Board Supporter on the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) form;
pastoral reference letter;
a current Criminal Reference Check with Vulnerable Sector (within six (6) months).

For more information about the committee visit dcpic.ca. Nominations are due by Tuesday, October 3, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. EST attention Lori Jones email lori.jones@dcdsb.ca.

Nominate your School for Outstanding Home-School Communications

Thu, 14 Feb 2019 14:30:00 GMT

Nominate your School for Outstanding Communications

Nominations are being accepted for the Reverend John Markle Home-School Communications Award.

Is your school outstanding in Advancing Communications?
Our Durham Catholic schools are committed to the Board’s strategic goal of Advancing Communications by delivering timely, effective and open communication with the most appropriate tools and technology available. A selection committee is accepting nominations from parents, guardians and students who believe their school has done an outstanding job in communicating with students and families over the 2018-2019 school year. One elementary and one secondary school will be selected to receive the award at the May 27, 2019 Board Meeting.

How to nominate a school

Communication from the school demonstrates our faith-based values and Catholicity.
Newsletters provide relevant information in a format that is easy to read.
School website is updated regularly with informative and meaningful content.
Social media posts include relevant and interesting information for followers.
Synervoice and/or School Messenger is used appropriately and effectively to notify parents of important notices.
Board information is distributed in a timely manner.
Photos, samples or web links to show samples of outstanding home-school communications can be attached with the submission.

Submissions can be sent by email indicating Rev. John Markle Award in the subject line to communications@dcdsb.ca or delivered in a sealed envelope addressed to:

Communications - Rev. John Markle Award
Durham Catholic District School Board
650 Rossland Rd. West, Oshawa, ON L1J 7C4

Selection Committee

The winning schools will be selected by a committee consisting of one Trustee representative and two Student Trustees.

Deadline

5:00 p.m. on March 7, 2019

DCDSB News - December 2024

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 17:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

The December 2024 issue of the DCDSB News is now available! This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what's happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

Advent Message
Faith
- Advent Resources
- Pilgrims of Hope Video from St. Marguerite d’Youville Catholic School
Indigenous Education in Action
- Reflecting on Truth and Reconciliation at Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School
- Students Explore their Relationship with the Land at St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic School
DCDSB Updates
- DCDSB Celebrates Inaugural Black Student Excellence Awards
- DCDSB Receives Three Awards for Outstanding Efforts to Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change Initiatives!
- Grade 1 French Immersion Registration Now Open
- Save-the-Date: Kindergarten Registration Opens January 8, 2025
- Submit Nominations for January Beacons of Hope
Parent, Guardian and Caregiver Resources
- Financial Literacy Parent Night
- ASAD Information Session
- Wes Hall Keynote Event at Father Leo J. Austin
Mental Health and Well-Being
- St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School Promotes Mental Wellness on DCDSB’s Let’s Talk Day
- 8 Holiday Activities to Foster Family Connection
DCDSB Students
- Mathletes Competition at St. Joseph Catholic School in Uxbridge
- BLOSM Fundraiser in Support of Sickle Cell Association of Canada
- Author’s Tea at St. Patrick Catholic School
- Coco’s Cocoa for Kids Fundraiser for SickKids
- Grade 12 Business SHSM Certification
- Project SEARCH Retreat
Continuing Education
- Travel, Learn, and Earn a Credit in Summer 2025
Upcoming Events

Sincerely,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Novel Coronavirus Update #3

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 19:15:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Please see the parent and guardian letter below regarding the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) from our Superintendent of Education - Safe Schools.

Community Resources Symposium and Fair

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 20:00:00 GMT

Durham Catholic District School Board Student Services is hosting a Community Resources Symposium and Fair.

Attend to learn about services and programs offered by community organizations and agencies that support pathways planning and the well-being of students with special education needs in Grades 7 – 12+.

Date: Wednesday, October 25, 2023

Time: 3:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Location: Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School 1375 Harwood Avenue North, Ajax, ON

DCDSB Recognizes National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 12:15:00 GMT

On Monday, September 30, the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) recognizes the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. On this day of solemn reflection, we honour the children who never returned home from residential schools, and offer thoughts and prayers to the survivors, their families, and all those impacted by this painful history. Acknowledging the history and the truth of the ongoing impacts of residential schools is essential to the reconciliation process. We recognize that this is a time for our Durham Catholic learning community to renew our commitment to Truth and Reconciliation. Staff and students demonstrate commitment to Truth and Reconciliation by learning about the impacts of colonization, collaborating with First Nation, Métis, and Inuit community and partners, and utilizing holistic approaches to student success. By engaging staff, students, and families in deepening our learning about residential schools, Treaties, as well as the ongoing contributions of Indigenous knowledge, culture, and perspective, DCDSB prioritizes Indigenous Education across the system.

To learn more about Indigenous Education at DCDSB, please visit our website.

Nominate Your School for Outstanding Communications!

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 14:00:00 GMT

Nominations are being accepted for the DCDSB Reverend John Markle Home to School Communications Award.

Is your school delivering outstanding communications?
Durham Catholic schools are committed to engaging with our communities by delivering timely, effective, and open communication. A selection committee is accepting nominations from students and families who believe their school has done an outstanding job in communicating with them over the 2024-2025 school year.

One elementary and one secondary school will be selected to receive the award at the Board Meeting on May 26, 2025.

How to nominate a school
The nomination form asks you to describe how your school demonstrates excellence in communications. Submissions should include examples of:

How your school communicates faith-based values and Catholicity; and
A description and/or examples of how your school provides outstanding communications (i.e. newsletters, website, Edsby, social media, emails, phone calls, etc.)

Click here to submit a nomination!

Submissions may also be sent by email indicating Rev. John Markle Home to School Communication Award in the subject line to communications@dcdsb.ca.

The winning schools will be selected by a committee consisting of one trustee representative and two student trustees.

Submissions will be accepted until 4:30 p.m. on Friday, March 7, 2025.

DCDSB Elementary Summer School Programs

Wed, 24 May 2023 17:00:00 GMT

DCDSB Elementary Summer School Programs

Registration is still open for Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) Elementary Summer School Programs.

NEW Summer Camp Offering:

Welding Camp for Students in Grades 7 to 9
DCDSB is pleased to offer a Welding Camp that is a fun, hands-on experience with a focus on numeracy for students who have finished Grade 7, 8, or 9. During this week-long camp, students will learn about the skilled trades and apprenticeship pathway with a focus on the basics of welding and motive power in a safe environment.

Registration will open at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 25, 2023. Enrollment will be determined on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Cooking Camp for Students in Grades 6 to 8
Three additional weeks of Cooking Camp have been added to our summer offerings. Interested parents and students are asked to complete the online form here: Cooking Camp

Registration is still available for the following summer school programs:

Head Start Program (August 21 – 24, 2023)
The Head Start Program is available to all Grade 8 students going into Grade 9 at one of our Durham Catholic District School Board high schools. The program involves a review of literacy and numeracy skills and provides students with a preview of the Grade 9 curriculum for Mathematics and English. Study Skills, Health and Well-Being are also integrated into the program.

Interested parents and students are asked to complete the online form here: Head Start Program Registration. Registrations are due by June 23, 2023.

Summer Arts Camps for Students in Grades 6 to 8
Summer Arts Camps will provide students who are currently in Grade 6 to Grade 8 with an opportunity to strengthen literacy skills and experience areas of the Arts. This program will run in-person at All Saints Catholic Secondary School in Whitby and is non-credit. There are still spots available in the Dance, Musical Theatre and Instrumental Music camps. Visit the Summer Arts Camps webpage for a listing of available programs and dates.

Interested parents and students are asked to complete the online form to register: Summer Arts Camps

In-Person Summer Camps for Students in Grades 6 to 8
Spots are still available in the following camps:

Registrations are due June 23, 2023. Camp enrolment will be determined on a first-come, first-served basis as space is limited.

Reach Ahead High School Credit - Online (July 4 – 27, 2023)
Registration is open for Grade 8 students who wish to register for Grade 9 summer school credit through Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre:

Introduction to Business (BBI 1O)
Exploring Family Studies – Transition to High School (HIF 1O)
U.P. (Ultimate Potential) Math (GLS 1O)
Expressions of First Nations, Metis and Inuit Cultures (NAC1O)

Interested parents and students are asked to complete the online form to register: Grade 8 Reach Ahead High School Credit Registration. Registrations are due by June 23, 2023.

Literacy and Math including French Immersion for Grades 6, 7, & 8

Session 1: July 4 – 14, 2023
Session 2: July 17 – 28, 2023

Interested parents and students are asked to complete the online form to register: Literacy and Math including French Immersion Registration. Registrations are due by June 23, 2023.

Elementary International Languages Program (July 4 – July 28, 2023)
We offer free summer International and Heritage Language classes for elementary students who are currently in JK to Grade 8.

Interested parents and students are asked to complete the online form here: Elementary International Languages Program

French for Kindergarten to Grade 3 (July 4 – July 28, 2023)
Students who are currently enrolled in Kindergarten to Grade 3 are invited to register for French language classes during the summer. The cost for this program is $190.

Interested parents and students are asked to visit our webpage for complete registration and payment details: French Kindergarten to Grade 3

If a student registers for a Reach Ahead High School Credit (July 4 – 27, 2023), they are not able to register for a non-credit program because the weeks will overlap in July.

If you have any questions about the non-credit literacy/numeracy programs, please contact cont.ed@dcdsb.ca or call (905) 683-7713.

For questions about the Reach Ahead High School Credit Program or Head Start, please contact credit.reg@dcdsb.ca or call (905) 438-0570.

All summer school information can be found on the website www.con-ed.ca. Thank you for your interest in summer school. We look forward to supporting your child’s education.

Sincerely,

Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre
Durham Catholic District School Board

DCDSB News: October 2022

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Our October 2022 DCDSB News is now available! Please click here to view the newsletter.

This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what's happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

Message from the Chair of the Board and Director of Education
Faith: October is the Month of the Rosary; Join the 15^th Annual ShareLife Poster Contest.
Indigenous Education: Student Learning About Truth and Reconciliation.
DCDSB Updates: Special Education Review; Regional Arts & Media Program; We Are Hiring Certified Occasional Teachers; Policy Input; and DCDSB KinderClub.
DCDSB Students: Student Spotlight – Moyin and Sophie, Student Trustees; Outdoor Trail and Learning Space at the Catholic Education Centre.
Mental Health and Well-Being: Accessing Support for Your Child’s Mental Health.
Continuing Education: Prepare for Work or Post-Secondary with Employment Training Programs at Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre.
Upcoming Events, Recognition Days and more.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

DCPIC Winter Newsletter

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians, and Caregivers:

The latest issue of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) newsletter is now available.

This issue includes:

Message from DCPIC Chair
DCPIC Events

Family STEM Workshops
DCPIC Volunteer Awards

Faith Formation

Lenten Activities
Sacramental Preparation and Youth Ministries
DCPIC Parishes

Information for Sharing

DCDSB Accepting Nominations for the Reverend John Markle Home-School Communications Award
Nominations are Open for the DCDSB’s Distinguished Catholic Alumni Award

Engage with DCDSB
Ways to Give

Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation

Dates for upcoming DCPIC meetings

For more information about the committee, visit dcpic.ca or email chair@dcpic.ca.

Yours in Faith,

Rose LoPresti
Chair of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee

Complete DCPIC's Year-End Parent Engagement Survey

Thu, 11 May 2017 13:00:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) is asking parents and guardians to complete this parent engagement survey. The information obtained will assist the committee in establishing its direction for the 2017/2018 School Year. The survey takes approximately 10 minutes to complete.

DCPIC is a statutory committee of the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) and is comprised of 19 members including a Chair, Vice-Chair, Secretary/Treasurer, 13 parent members, up to three community representatives and the Director’s designate Superintendent of Education. The committee meets and conducts monthly public meetings during the school year. All parents are welcome to attend. Visit the DCPIC website to learn more.

DCDSB Celebrates Black History Month

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 19:30:00 GMT

February is Black History Month! Throughout the year, the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) engages in learning and understanding of the history and current realities of Black individuals, while also recognizing the achievements, resilience and excellence of Black communities.

At DCDSB, we are committed to promoting an inclusive learning community where diversity is celebrated, and all voices are heard. During February, we will be hosting various events, celebrations, and discussions to educate and inspire our students, staff, and community members on Black history and excellence.

Recognizing the importance of Black History Month, we are committed to supporting and celebrating Black excellence, and to having Black history recognized as Canadian history, through culturally responsive and relevant programs and initiatives that promote equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging.

Black History Month in DCDSB Schools

Throughout DCDSB schools, students will be involved in numerous learning opportunities and events. Many schools have invited guest speakers, panelists, and artists including dancers and musicians to share their knowledge and culture with the DCDSB community.

At DCDSB schools, Black Student Unions and other equity student groups meet throughout the year to centre student voices, seek opportunities to celebrate their culture and heritage, and develop initiatives and programs for Black and other equity-deserving populations.

Coach/Advocates for Black Students (CABS) have established Black student groups in the DCDSB secondary schools they are affiliated with, who work together to highlight Black excellence and pathways opportunities all year long. CABS group activities for Black History Month include hosting cultural bake sales, organizing guest speakers and performances, and sharing information about notable Black Canadians through social media and school announcements. Throughout the year, CABS work to support the implementation of programs, services and other supports to meet the needs of systemically underserved Black students and their families, with a focus on student well-being and success.

DCDSB has focused on building capacity in educators to dismantle anti-Black racism and discrimination, and to support Black excellence. Educators have received professional development sessions and have access to resources and materials for use in the classroom.

All DCDSB secondary schools offer the Grade 12 course: Deconstructing Anti-Black Racism (IDC4U). The course will run each school year if enough students at each secondary school opt to register for it. This university-level course is available to current Grade 10 and Grade 11 students when course selection opens in January/February. It is a counter-space of celebration that centres Black experience, and promotes unity, allyship, and participatory action, by allowing all students to learn about the theories, histories, and stories of Black resilience and advocacy. To learn more about this course, please speak with your secondary school guidance department.

Staff Learning

The DCDSB Black Heritage & Excellence Celebration Committee has planned Black History Month initiatives for Catholic Education Centre (CEC) and Operations Maintenance Administrative Centre (OMAC) staff. To kick off the month, staff have been invited to attend a liturgy led by Father Coleman Mruma which will be followed by a presentation in recognition of Black History Month. This presentation will feature Black Canadians who have contributed to Canadian development throughout history to present day. At the end of February, CEC and OMAC staff will participate in a Black History Month celebration and will include a guest speaker, music and food from local Black businesses. These initiatives will allow for DCDSB staff to reflect on shared values, deepen their understanding and celebrate the diversity that enriches our board.

Beyond Black History Month, staff participate in Human Rights and Equity training that cover a variety of topics, including navigating workplace discrimination, engaging in culturally responsive communication, and resolving Ontario Human Rights Code-based concerns. Staff also have access to resources, supports and materials related to this training.

Resources to support staff professional development and embedding the principles of equity into the classroom are available for all DCDSB staff on the intranet.

We encourage everyone to participate, learn, and engage in meaningful conversations during Black History Month and throughout the year. By working together, we can promote understanding, respect, and equality for all.

DCDSB and Community Resources

Supports and resources to dismantle anti-Black racism and promote Black excellence at the Durham Catholic District School Board

Anti-Black Racism & Black Excellence Advisory Committee
Black Excellence Newsletter – Click here to view the most recent issue
Black Excellence Student Awards
Black Heritage and Excellence Celebration Committee – Aims to celebrate and promote Black heritage and excellence by elevating and empowering DCDSB staff
Black Student Unions and Black Student Groups at DCDSB schools
Camps for Black Students
Coach/Advocate for Black Students (CABS)
Culturally relevant mental health supports
DCDSB Student Human Rights Conference – Scheduled for April 2025
Equity Invitational Learning Series
Human Rights, Anti-Racism and Anti-Discrimination at DCDSB
DCDSB is partnering, with Cultural Expressions for CHANGE, for the 18th Annual Black History Month Celebration. This free celebration will take place on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School and J. Clarke Richardson Collegiate in Ajax. The event will be hosted by Kevin Carrington and will feature a keynote presentation by motivational speaker and entrepreneur Tychon Carter. Community networking starts at 4:00 p.m., with the formal programming beginning at 6:30 p.m. Click here to register.

Local Events

Resources for Further Learning

Math Made Accessible: Tools for Families of Students with Special Education Needs

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 19:00:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee, in partnership with the Durham Catholic District School Board, is pleased to offer part two of the Parent Math Learning Series on Thursday, February 20, 2025, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Archbishop Denis O'Connor Catholic High School (80 Mandrake Street, Ajax). Part two of this series will focus on tools for families of students with Special Education needs.

Families are invited to attend an interactive presentation that will feature practical tools, fun games, hands-on activities, and valuable resources to make math more approachable and enjoyable for all learners.

This is a family-friendly event where children are welcome, and activities are perfect for all ages! Registration for this evening is required. Please click here to confirm your attendance.

For more Financial Literacy resources, please visit the DCDSB Financial Literacy webpage.

Save the Date - DCPIC Parent Resource Conference

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 18:30:00 GMT

Mark your calendars and save the date because the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) Parent Resource Conference is coming soon!

Date: Saturday, November 18, 2023

Time: 8:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Location: Archbishop Denis O’Connor Catholic High School, 80 Mandrake Street, Ajax, ON

Offered free of charge, the Parent Resource Conference gives Durham Catholic parents, guardians and caregivers the opportunity to hear and learn from guest speaker Michael Way Skinner, and subject-matter experts during breakout sessions.

Complimentary child minding is also available.

More details will be shared about the breakout session topics, in addition to registration information, in the coming weeks.

We’re looking forward to an engaging event and hope to see you there!

Durham College Invention Camp

Thu, 23 May 2019 21:00:00 GMT

Calling all Indigenous students in Grades 7-12 to join DCDSB's Indigenous Student Education Advisory Circle

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 17:00:00 GMT

The Student Indigenous Education Advisory Circle is an opportunity for DCDSB Indigenous students to share their voice and culture with students across our board. The Circle meets in February, April, June, September and November where members of the Indigenous Education Advisory Circle invite you to discuss what you would like to see happen or initiative implemented in Indigenous Education within our board. You will meet other Indigenous youth in DCDSB and community members as well as have the opportunity to share your own knowledge and extend your learning.

If you have yet to self-identify as Indigenous, please fill out https://dcdsb.formbuilder.ca/Indigenous-Ancestry-Form

If you are interested in joining the Indigenous Student Education Advisory Circle please submit an original work to demonstrate why you would like to be a part of this circle. This could be done through a letter, art piece, poem, video, voice recording, essay or anything that you feel represents your interest in being a part of this circle.

Please also include one reference (name and school) from any board employee to go along with your work and email your submission entitled “Indigenous Education Student Advisory Circle” by January 8, 2021 to Leah Power, Indigenous Education Secondary Resource Teacher at Leahm.power@dcdsb.ca.

DCDSB News - Back-to-School Issue

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 17:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

The Back-to-School issue of the DCDSB News is now available! This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what’s happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

This newsletter includes:

Welcome to the 2024-2025 School Year
Faith
- Spiritual Theme: Living in Hope
DCDSB Updates
- School Year Calendar
- Cell Phone and Personal Mobile Device Use in Schools
- Smoke/Vape Free Schools
- Steps to Addressing Questions and Concerns
- DCDSB Right to Disconnect
Parent, Guardian and Caregiver Resources
- Report a Student Absence Through Safe Arrival
- DSTS – Check Your Child’s Bus Route
- Class Placements and Timetables
- Talking to Kids About Back to School Worries
- Support for Students with Special Education Needs
- Region of Durham – Mobile ID and Benefits Access Hubs
- Durham Region – Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Information
DCDSB Students
- Summer Rays Learning Program
- CABS Multi-Sport Summer Camp
- Exploring the Trades Camp
Continuing Education
Upcoming Events

Staying Safe Online - Cybersecurity Awareness

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 20:00:00 GMT

Dear Families,

October is Cyber Security Awareness Month, a national initiative that focuses on online safety. At the Durham Catholic District School Board, keeping our schools, students, staff, and families safe is a top priority.

We want to share an important reminder about online safety and a potential online threat to students and their devices. YouTube videos designed to attract student attention and distribute harmful malware are circulating online. These videos often promise free software or Roblox game cheats to increase views. You can read more in the following article: 3,000 YouTube Videos Exposed as Malware Traps in Massive Ghost Network Operation.

To help protect our students and school communities, please review and share these important safety tips with your child(ren):

Do not download software or game cheats from unofficial sources.
Report suspicious videos or links directly to YouTube.
Ensure all devices have up-to-date antivirus protection.
If students have any concerns, they should speak with their school immediately so that it can be reported to the board’s Information Communications Technology (ICT) department.

Families are encouraged to have conversations with their children about online risks and why they should avoid downloading unofficial content. Families may wish to monitor device activity and review installed apps to ensure the online safety of their child.

By following these steps, we can work together to stop the spread of harmful content and keep our community safe.

Families are encouraged to visit www.getcybersafe.gc.ca, a Government of Canada resource, for the latest cybersecurity tips, scam alerts, and best practices for protecting personal information.

Thank you for your continued partnership in keeping our students and schools safe online.

Sincerely,
Durham Catholic District School Board

February's Issue of the Celebrating Student Success Newsletter

Mon, 06 Feb 2017 14:00:00 GMT

Read the latest issue of our Celebrating Student Success newsletter.

This issue features articles on:

Year of Community – A Community of Athletic Perseverance at Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School;
The Benefits of Parent and Family Engagement;
English Language Learners Experience Snow for the First Time;
Promoting Positive Mental Health at St. Christopher Catholic School;
St. John Bosco Catholic School values the Importance of Community Partnerships;
Talking about Mental Health at Schools Across the Durham Catholic District School Board;
Students Graduate from the Centre for Success Program; and
Notre Dame Student Attends Academy in USA on Basketball Scholarship.

Stay connected and sign up to receive the newsletter directly in your inbox.

Update on Provincial Health and Safety Guidance

Thu, 10 Mar 2022 14:30:00 GMT

March 10, 2022

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Yesterday, the Ministry of Education announced that due to declining rates of COVID-19 in the province, on the advice of the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Ontario, many of the pandemic-related safety measures which have been in place in schools are being lifted. Click here to read the news release.

Lifted Safety Measures
When students return to school after the March Break, the following safety measures are no longer required:

Mandatory masking in schools, board offices, and on school bus transportation; (please note exceptions outlined below re: returning from travel and isolation procedures)
eye protection for staff;
cohorting and distancing indoors and outdoors at school;
assigned seats and cohorting on student transportation; and
completion of the daily confirmation of COVID-19 self-assessment.

It was also announced that gatherings and assemblies will be permitted at regular capacity. This will allow for the return of in-person school-based assemblies, proms and graduation ceremonies.

Although masks and eye protection will no longer be mandatory, students, visitors, families, and staff are welcome to continue wearing masks while at school and/or on the bus. The school will continue to have masks available to provide to students who wish to use them.

Important Information for March Break Travel
As families prepare to leave for March Break, we want to provide a reminder that notwithstanding the lifting of mandatory masking, under current federal travel requirements, upon return from international travel, for 14 days after re-entry to Canada, individuals must wear a mask at all times when in public spaces (including schools and child care), maintain a list of all close contacts and self-monitor for signs and symptoms of COVID-19.

Continued Safety Measures
One of the best ways to prevent spread of the virus is to ensure that when someone is sick or showing symptoms, they stay home. Although parents/guardians will no longer have to submit a signature each day, it is expected that everyone continue to self- assess daily using the COVID-19 screening tool. Students and staff should remain home if they are ill or do not pass the screening tool.

Following the March Break (on Monday, March 21), the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) will continue to use the following safety measures in our schools and offices:

appropriate hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette will be promoted and integrated throughout the school day;
enhanced cleaning and disinfecting protocols;
enhanced ventilation protocols and standalone HEPA filters will remain in place;
masks and eye protection will continue to be provided for any students and staff who wish to wear a mask and/or safety glasses while in our schools and offices; and the
ongoing monitoring of COVID-19 impacts and reporting of absenteeism rates to the Durham Regional Health Department

Isolation Guidelines
Isolation guidelines were also changed effective Wednesday, March 9, 2022. Please refer to the Government of Ontario’s website for the most updated isolation guidelines.

Vaccinations
Public Health continues to communicate that vaccination is still the best protection against COVID-19. If you are interested in obtaining a COVID-19 vaccination for your child or yourself, please book an appointment at Durham Region Health Department. The Health Department has provided the following update regarding upcoming immunization clinics during March Break for your consideration.

Booster Dose for Youth 12 – 17 and those 18 years of age and older
Booster doses are now available for all individuals 12 years and older. A booster dose provides an extra layer of protection against COVID-19 and helps lower the risk of severe illness and hospitalization. Youth aged 12 – 17 are recommended to receive a booster dose at least 168 days after their second dose. Learn more about booster doses.
COVID-19 Vaccination after COVID-19 Infection
Individuals who have previously tested positive for COVID-19 are still encouraged to get the vaccine when they become eligible. Read more about how this applies to individuals during first and second dose as well as booster doses.
Immunization Clinics During March Break
Residents are invited to attend one of the COVID-19 immunization clinics that are being offered at select schools during March Break. The clinics are open to all eligible individuals, including children 5 – 11 years old and youth/adults 12 years of age and older for first, second or booster doses. The clinics are walk-in only and no appointments are required.
- Tuesday, March 15 - Da Vinci Public School, Ajax
  Time: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Wednesday, March 16 - Sunset Heights Public School, Oshawa
  Time: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Thursday, March 17 - St. Monica Catholic School, Pickering
  Time: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

The Health Department continues to offer clinics with extended hours for families. These clinics welcome walk-ins and booked appointments. Information about clinic locations, dates and times is located on the clinic calendar.

COVID-19 vaccinations are also available at some pharmacies, select health care providers and at Provincial GO-VAXX mobile clinics. For more information about COVID-19 vaccines, visit their website www.durham.ca/covidvaccines

Thank you for your continued cooperation and understanding as we resume activities that have been on pause within our school communities. As a Community of Faith, we will continue to provide safe and welcoming school environments that focus on kindness, consideration and respect towards all.

If you have any questions, please call your school office and speak to a member of our staff. I wish you a safe and relaxing March Break and may God’s blessings be with all of you.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

Orange Shirt Day

Fri, 21 Sep 2018 15:30:00 GMT

Join us in recognizing Orange Shirt Day on Friday, September 28. All Durham Catholic students and staff are encouraged to wear an orange shirt to show their solidarity with survivors and non-survivors of residential schools.

Learn more about Orange Shirt Day at http://www.orangeshirtday.org/

Grade 1 French Immersion Parent Information Night

Tue, 21 Nov 2017 16:30:00 GMT

Parents and guardians with students in Kindergarten (Year 2 - SK) are welcome to attend one of the upcoming Grade 1 French Immersion Parent Information Nights. These evening presentations are an opportunity for you to learn more about the French Immersion program and how you can enrol your child.

Online registration will open on Monday, December 11, 2017 and close on January 19, 2018. Your child must be entering Grade 1 in September 2018 to register for French Immersion.

For more information, visit https://www.dcdsb.ca/en/programs-services/French-Immersion.aspx.

See flyer for upcoming dates and times for information sessions.

Watch DCPIC's Math Caf� for Parents

Thu, 17 Jan 2019 18:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, January 15, 2019, the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) hosted their second in a four-part series on Math Cafés for Parents. This session focused on Fractions – More than Pizza and Butterflies. Parents were provided with helpful tips on how to talk to their children about fractions, resources and games.

You can watch the session at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXiPaQSmbihUdruQS77OfFA to learn more about fractions and how you can help support your child(ren) at home.

Resources such as the Fraction Chomp game and presentation are also available on https://www.dcpic.ca/en/news-and-events/dcpic-math-cafe.aspx

2020-2021 School Year Calendar Survey

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 17:30:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board is seeking input from students, parents/guardians and staff regarding the start date for the 2020-2021 school year calendar.

For the upcoming school year Labour Day falls on the latest possible date (September 7, 2020) which presents some unique scenarios for the calendar. Two possible options are being considered and the Board would like to know which option stakeholders prefer.

One option proposes a start date for students before Labour Day weekend and the other proposes a traditional start date for students on the Tuesday following Labour day weekend.

Please provide your input by accessing a short survey using the link below. The survey will require less than one minute to complete.

https://www.dcdsb.ca/DC-2020Calendar/

The link will remain active until end of day Tuesday, March 24, 2020. Thank you in advance for your input.

DCDSB News: January 2023

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 20:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The January 2023 issue of the DCDSB News is now available! Please click here to view the newsletter.

This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what's happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

Message from the Director of Education.
Kindergarten Registration is Now Open!
Faith: Spiritual Theme – Listening With the Ear of the Heart; and St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School – Christmas Community Outreach Project.
Student Spotlight: Matthew H. from Archbishop Denis O’Connor Catholic High School.
Indigenous Education: Drew Hayden Taylor Speaks with Grade 11 English Students.
Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation: Foundation Launches Tributes and Legacy Funds.
DCDSB Updates: Inclement Weather; Grade 1 French Immersion Registration; Durham Region Health Department Immunization Clinics; and DCDSB Receives Pickering Environmental Schools Grant.
DCDSB Students: OYAP Initiative: How Catholics See God; and All Saints Catholic Secondary School Hosts BIPOC Panel of Filmmakers Event in Partnership with Reel Canada.
Mental Health and Well-Being: Bell Let’s Talk Day.
Adult and Continuing Education: Custodial Services Training Program at Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre.
Upcoming Events, recognition days and more.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Family Literacy Night

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 15:45:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee and the Durham Catholic District School Board Literacy Team have partnered to offer a Family Literacy Night for parents and caregivers.

This presentation will cover:

Key changes to reading and writing instruction in Ontario
The purpose of early reading screening
Ways parents and caregivers can support strong reading outcomes at home

The presentation will be available on three different dates and locations to ensure accessibility for families. Please see below for dates and times:

St. John XXIII Catholic School: Tuesday, January 21, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
St. John Paul II Catholic School: Tuesday, February 25, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
St. Jude Catholic School: Tuesday, March 25, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Please click here to register for your desired location and date and visit dcdsb.ca/Literacy for more literacy resources.

2023-2024 Distinguished Catholic Volunteer Awards

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 13:00:00 GMT

Congratulations to the 2023-2024 Distinguished Catholic Volunteer Award recipients. We love our volunteers! Thank you to the dedicated volunteers who contribute to the success of our schools and committees each and every day.

We are honoured to present the 2023-2024 Distinguished Catholic Volunteer Award recipients below.

Distinguished Catholic Volunteers for Ajax Schools:

Theresa Valera, Archbishop Denis O'Connor Catholic High School;
Sven Paulsen, Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School;
Alexa Rodney, St. André Bessette Catholic School;
Linda Lyne-Orr, St. Bernadette Catholic School;
MJ Mananquil, St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School;
Jennifer Caldwell, St. Francis de Sales Catholic School;
Rachel Brabant, St. James Catholic School;
Ave Maria Anthony, St. Josephine Bakhita Catholic School;
Galina Neelamegam, St. Jude Catholic School;
Luz De Maria Villegas Estrada, St. Patrick Catholic School;
Angela Housen, St. Theresa of Calcutta Catholic School.

Distinguished Catholic Volunteers for Northern Schools (Beaverton, Port Perry, Uxbridge):

Sheri Wilson & Edith Fox, Good Shepherd Catholic School;
Colline Theodoru, Holy Family Catholic School;
Krystal Wagner, St. Joseph Catholic School Uxbridge.

Distinguished Catholic Volunteers for Oshawa Schools:

Christine West, Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School;
Raffaela Risorto, Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School;
Kim MacDonald, Monsignor Philip Coffey Catholic School;
Lyndsay Musclow, St. Anne Catholic School;
Deanna Ley, St. Christopher Catholic School;
Alanna Capogreco, St. Hedwig Catholic School;
Caitlin Johnston, St. John XXIII Catholic School;
Nicole Swift, St. John Bosco Catholic School;
Larry McAvoy, St. Joseph Catholic School Oshawa;
Andrea Provenzano, St. Kateri Tkakwitha Catholic School;
Kylie McAllister, St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School;
Nicole Cunningham, Sir Albert Love Catholic School.

Distinguished Catholic Volunteers for Pickering Schools:

Sue Priestman, St. Mary Catholic Secondary School;
Patricia Vanderputt, Father Fénelon Catholic School;
Vanessa Small, St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School;
Antonietta Cillo, St. Isaac Jogues Catholic School;
Paul Dalton, St. Monica Catholic School;
Margie Joyce & Barb Perrott, St. Wilfrid Catholic School.

Distinguished Catholic Volunteers for Whitby Schools:

Geoffrey Bend, All Saints Catholic Secondary School;
Anna Lisa Althaide, Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School;
Yuliana Tjie, St. Bernard Catholic School;
Jenna Stuart-Hagge, St. Bridget Catholic School;
Mirco Cabrias, St. John the Evangelist Catholic School;
Lindsay McIntosh, St. John Paul II Catholic School;
Lynne Ruetz, St. Leo Catholic School;
Melissa Hull, St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic School;
Nicole O'Neill, St. Marguerite d'Youville Catholic School;
Melissa DaSilva, St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic School;
Carly Muegge, St. Matthew the Evangelist Catholic School;
Laura Ore, St. Paul Catholic School;
Zoran Mavrevski, St. Theresa Catholic School.

More information about the Distinguished Catholic Volunteer Awards can be found on the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee website.

January 18, 2022: Ministry of Education Letter to Families

Tue, 18 Jan 2022 17:45:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We are sending the following letter on behalf of the Ministry of Education. Please click here to view the letter which contains information on the return to in-person learning in January 2022.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Oshawa Program and Boundary Study

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 14:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

On January 24, 2022, the Board of Trustees received the Long-Term Accommodation Plan 2022-2026 (LTAP) report and approved the guiding principles and actions to be undertaken. Within the LTAP report, staff were directed to undertake an Oshawa program and boundary study, with recommendations for any potential changes to be identified for a community consultation and implementation review (any potential outcomes would be subject to the provision of new PARG guidelines from the Ministry of Education, and the removal of the current moratorium). The study would help to address potential program and service delivery models at one or more Durham Catholic District School Board schools in Oshawa which are being impacted by the increased growth in north Oshawa, and due to the Ministry of Education announcement in July of 2020 to replace Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School with a Grade 7-12 school.

At the June 20, 2022, Regular Board Meeting Trustees approved the proposed boundary program and boundary “in-principle” recommendations to bring to the Oshawa families of schools for community consultation during the 2022-23 school year. Below are the scenarios that are being considered:

When the new replacement Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School secondary school is open, the DCDSB will have a vacant building in Oshawa that could be used as a single-track Grade 1-8 French Immersion school. Or alternatively, the DCDSB will also have a vacant building at Father Joseph Venini Catholic School, which could also be used as a single-track Grade 1-8 French Immersion school. In this scenario the Grade 7 and 8 regular-track students from St. John Bosco Catholic School and St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School would be located at the new Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School. This scenario would include related boundary adjustments for St. Joseph Catholic School/Sir Albert Love Catholic School and a satellite area of Sir Albert Love Catholic School that could link to St. John XXIII Catholic School.
When the new replacement Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School is open, the DCDSB will have a vacant building in Oshawa that could be used as a single-track Grade 1-8 French Immersion school. Or alternatively, the DCDSB will also have a vacant building at Father Joseph Venini Catholic School, which could also be used as a single-track Grade 1-8 French Immersion school. In this scenario, the Grade 7 and 8 regular-track students from St. John Bosco Catholic School and St. Anne Catholic School would be located at the new Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School. This would include related boundary adjustments for St. Joseph Catholic School/Sir Albert Love Catholic School and a satellite area of Sir Albert Love Catholic School that could link to St. John XXIII Catholic School.
When the new replacement Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School is open, the DCDSB will have a vacant building in Oshawa that could be used as a single-track Grade 1-6 French Immersion school. Or alternatively, the DCDSB will also have a vacant building at Father Joseph Venini Catholic School, which could also be used as a single-track Grade 1-6 French Immersion school. In this scenario, the Grade 7 and 8 French Immersion students from St. Christopher Catholic School and St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School would be located at the new Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School. This would include related boundary adjustments for St. Joseph Catholic School/Sir Albert Love Catholic School and Sir Albert Love Catholic School satellite area to St. John XXIII Catholic School.
Busing implications of the changes would be determined in accordance with the Student Transportation Policy PO429.

Through a series of public meetings, board staff will compile considerations and recommendations to bring to the June 19, 2023 Regular Board meeting.

The public meetings will be led a committee comprised of staff and Catholic School Council representatives from each DCDSB school in Oshawa. The committee has been meeting regularly since November 2022 to review options and gather information that will be shared with the communities for input.

The Durham Catholic District School Board is committed to an open and transparent process that allows for public input through a variety of means. Public meetings have been scheduled on the dates below to present the options under consideration and to offer our parents and guardians the opportunity to ask questions and provide input.

Tuesday, March 7, 2023
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Sir Albert Love Catholic School
425 Wilson Road N., Oshawa

Tuesday, March 21, 2023
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
St. Christopher Catholic School
431 Annapolis Avenue, Oshawa

Thursday, March 23, 2023
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School
1425 Coldstream Drive, Oshawa

If you are unable to attend the public meetings, a webpage has also been established to share information related to the boundary review: www.dcdsb.ca/boundaryreviews. Parents and guardians are encouraged to submit their feedback and ask any questions through the feedback form available on the boundary review webpage.

We look forward to working with you at the upcoming meetings. Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Sincerely,

Jim Wilson Scott Grieve
Superintendent of Education Superintendent of Business, Finance
Oshawa Family of Schools and Facilities Services

2022-2023 Distinguished Catholic Volunteer Awards

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 13:30:00 GMT

Congratulations to the 2022-2023 Distinguished Catholic Volunteer Award recipients. We love our volunteers! Thank you to the dedicated volunteers who contribute to the success of our schools and committees each and every day.

We are honoured to present the 2022-2023 Distinguished Catholic Volunteer Award recipients below.

Distinguished Catholic Volunteers for Ajax Schools:

Anissa Voisin, Archbishop Denis O'Connor Catholic High School;
Corsina Miel, Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School;
Natasha Headland, St. André Bessette Catholic School;
Gerard Murtagh, St. Bernadette Catholic School;
Vidal Massiah, St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School;
Cathy Haynes, St. Francis de Sales Catholic School;
Lindsay Fraser, St. James Catholic School;
Lance Lambert, St. Josephine Bakhita Catholic School;
Jennifer Thompson, St. Jude Catholic School;
Bernadette Santiago Tan, St. Patrick Catholic School;
Stephanie Gafoor, St. Teresa of Calcutta Catholic School.

Distinguished Catholic Volunteers for Northern Schools (Beaverton, Port Perry, Uxbridge):

Vanessa Sikora, Good Shepherd Catholic School;
Colline Theodoru, Holy Family Catholic School;
Maria Orsi-Giovanetti, St. Joseph Catholic School (Uxbridge).

Distinguished Catholic Volunteers for Oshawa Schools:

Nicole Zara, Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School;
Patrice Joly, Monsignor Philip Coffey Catholic School;
Michelle Sattler, St. Anne Catholic School;
Terri Gordon, St. Christopher Catholic School;
Alanna Capogreco, St. Hedwig Catholic School;
Heather Anderson, St. John XXIII Catholic School;
Jennifer Inget, St. John Bosco Catholic School;
Melissa Bevan, St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School;
Joanne Cameron, St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School.
Ken Polley, Sir Albert Love Catholic School.

Distinguished Catholic Volunteers for Pickering Schools:

Adele Sartor, St. Mary Catholic Secondary School;
Mary Samson, Father Fenelon Catholic School;
Lisa Sadler, St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School;
Amy Renton, St. Isaac Jogues Catholic School;
Karen Williams, St. Monica Catholic School;
Kim Hajjar, St. Wilfrid Catholic School.

Distinguished Catholic Volunteers for Whitby Schools:

Vanessa Hopman, All Saints Catholic Secondary School;
Claudia Tinsley, Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School;
Shawna Brown, St. Bridget Catholic School;
Linda Infanti, St. John the Evangelist Catholic School;
Tricia Atwell, St. John Paul II Catholic School
Shayla Emery, St. Leo Catholic School
Ann Wainman, St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic School
Katie Kleinhorsman, St. Marquerite D'Youville
Karen Minacs, St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic School;
Jayantha Kulendran, St. Matthew the Evangelist Catholic School;
Willam (Bill) Joly, St. Paul Catholic School;
Erin Guerreiro, St. Theresa Catholic School.

More information about the Distinguished Catholic Volunteer Awards can be found on the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee website.

DCDSB Right to Disconnect from Work

Wed, 18 May 2022 20:45:00 GMT

May 18, 2022

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) staff believe in the value of open and responsive communication between home and school in support of our students.

In December 2021, the Ontario Government passed the Working for Workers Act which requires all employers with more than 25 employees, to implement a policy that ensures staff have the opportunity to disconnect from work each day.

As a Board of Education with approximately 2,400 staff members, we are committed to supporting positive work-life balance for our employees. We take this responsibility seriously and believe that the overall health and well-being of our staff impacts their ability to effectively support the learning needs of our students.

The DCDSB Right to Disconnect from Work Policy, which is now in effect, protects the right of staff to disconnect from work between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. on weekdays, and all day on weekends, approved vacation days, statutory holidays and Board-designated non-working days.

How will this impact parents and guardians?

As a Board, we recognize that our families have many different responsibilities and work obligations of their own which may impact the times when they are able to write notes and/or emails to their children’s school and/or educators. All parents and guardians are advised however, that in most cases, communication received after hours will not be responded to until the next working day.

We trust that in this time, when mental health and well-being is so important for everyone, that you will understand and support this change in the interest of maintaining a positive and resilient workforce in our schools and across our Catholic learning community.

Yours in Faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

Welcome Message from the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 16:15:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

On behalf of the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation (DCCF), I welcome you all to a new academic year. I trust that you and your families are settling well into the new school year. The DCCF is a charitable organization with a mission to bring hope to students and their families in need across our region. Fundraising initiatives take place throughout the year and funds raised are used to ensure that the students that attend our schools come to school with the basic daily necessities of life provided. To learn more about the Foundation's mission and vision driven by Catholic virtues and values, I encourage you to visit our website at durhamcatholicfoundation.ca.

We will be sharing information in the coming months on how you can play a vital role in achieving positive learning outcomes for our students by supporting and participating in our signature events. At the DCCF, we believe in the power of education and faith to transform students' lives. We look forward to continuing our work to enhance the educational experience in Durham Catholic District School Board schools by empowering our students to reach their full potential.

We look forward to a wonderful year together.

Yours in service,

Bernadette Santiago

Chair, Durham Catholic Children's Foundation

Noticing and Responding to Mental Health Concerns

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 15:00:00 GMT

As a parent, you might notice changes in your child’s or teen’s behaviour or emotions and wonder if these changes are just normal ups and downs, if they’re associated with the pandemic or related to an emerging mental health concern. Identifying problems early, and providing caring support goes a long way towards prevention and/or worsening of difficulties. When parents discuss their concerns with their children, it opens up the lines of communication and may be the first step in helping to improve the situation. School Mental Health Ontario provides more information about how to approach the conversation, and what to do next, at this link:

https://smho-smso.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Info-sheet-noticing-concerns.pdf

If you’re concerned, you can ask your principal about school mental health services that may be available. Students and families can also call the new DCDSB Social Work Access Line (905-576-6150, ext. 21021) and leave a voicemail to receive a call back. (Note: this is not a crisis line and is not monitored 24/7). A list of local resources, including crisis lines and non-crisis support can be found here: https://www.dcdsb.ca/en/programs-services/Mental-Health.aspx?_mid_=100106

For more Mental Health Moment articles and tips, subscribe to our web page at https://www.dcdsb.ca/en/programs-services/mental-health-moment.aspx.

DSTS - 2025-2026 Bus Transportation Information Now Available

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Durham Student Transportation Services (DSTS) is responsible for ensuring safe and efficient transportation to and from schools for eligible students.

Transportation and route information for the 2025-2026 School year is now available. Please use the automated phone line at 905-666-6979, or the DSTS Family Portal to access it online.

Please note that parents and guardians will require their child(ren)'s Ontario Education Number (OEN) to subscribe to the Family Portal.

If you need assistance in accessing the Family Portal, please refer to the information document on how to access this service.

DCDSB 2022-2023 Year End Message

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 17:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

As the 2022-2023 school year is coming to an end, we want to take a moment to reflect on the past ten months which have been filled with learning, excitement and the joy of community. We are so pleased that students, staff and families have once again had opportunities to engage with one another in celebrations of faith, co-curricular activities, field trips, proms, graduations and retirements.

Throughout the school year, we have embraced our spiritual theme of Listening With the Ear of the Heart placing our focus on what it means to authentically listen to each other and to God. Through deep listening, we can continue to expand our knowledge and understanding of the experiences of others, which supports a culture of respect for all. We invite you to watch the compilation video that provides an overview of how we have Listened With the Ear of the Heart over the 2022-2023 school year.

We want to thank our students, staff, families, parish and clergy partners, and community members for their ongoing partnership and efforts to support our mission “to be an inclusive Catholic learning community that inspires every student to achieve their full potential through faith and education”.

We look forward to Tuesday, September 5, 2023, when classes will resume for the 2023-2024 school year and we will be formally launching our new Multi-Year Strategic Plan, Inspire 2026, along with our new mission, vision and values for the board.

As the year draws to a close, we invite you to look back at highlights from the 2022-2023 school year. Please see some of our stories and videos below:

Student Spotlight video series
2023-2026 Mental Health Strategy Together for Mental Health: Everyone, Everyday
Grade 12 course, Contemporary Indigenous Issues and Perspectives in a Global Context, introduced at all secondary schools
Expanded welding programming and new training/certifications
DCDSB Special Education Review and LEAD Process
Project SEARCH Durham Region
Pilot outdoor experiential learning spaces
DCDSB Student Art Exhibit at the Robert McLaughlin Gallery
STEM Camps for Black Students
Black Excellence Student Team and Focusing on Black Students Without Borders, facilitated by the DCDSB’s Coach/Advocates for Black Students
2022-2023 DCDSB Accountability Report

On behalf of the Board of Trustees and Senior Administrative Team, we extend congratulations and best wishes to our graduates and retirees. May the next chapters of your life be filled with God’s blessings. We hope everyone in our Durham Catholic learning community has a safe and happy summer vacation.

Yours in Catholic Education,

Monique Forster Tracy Barill
Chair of the Board Director of Education

COVID-19 Vaccination and Self-Assessment Updates

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Letter from the Chief Medical Officer of Health

The Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health has distributed a letter to Parents and Guardians of Children aged 5 to 11 in the Province of Ontario.

For further materials and information about vaccination for children and youth please visit COVID-19 vaccines for children and youth | COVID-19 (coronavirus) in Ontario or Durham.ca/COVIDvaccines.

Updates from the Ontario Government

A couple of weeks ago, the Ontario government announced several updates for families. These updates include important information about:

Semester Schedule for Secondary Schools
Rapid Antigen Screening Kits - All Students
Travelling over the Christmas Break
COVID-19 Vaccinations for Students age 5 to 11 years

Onsite Confirmation of Self-Assessment following the Christmas Break

All students and staff are required to conduct daily screening for symptoms of COVID-19 before attending school using the COVID-19 school screening tool. Please do not send your child(ren) to school if they have symptoms or have not passed the self-assessment.

More information on how to complete the active screening will be shared with families later this week.

Celebrating 50 Years of Catholic Education at Family Picnic

Wed, 05 Jun 2019 15:00:00 GMT

On Sunday, June 2, 2019 Durham Catholic families, staff, partners and retirees gathered for a family picnic at Lakeview Park, in Oshawa to celebrate 50 years of Catholic education in Durham Region. The day was a great success with over 800 people attending.

The event started with an outdoor Mass celebrated by Rev. Keith Wallace and Deacon Pullano. A special thank you to the choir from St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School for singing and to the All Our Relations Métis Drum Circle for their welcoming song.

Secondary students volunteered their time to provide games, face painting and drawings. Students and staff also performed throughout the day on center stage. A huge thank you to our Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee for sponsoring the event and to the Knights of Columbus for running the popular bingo station.

Guests also enjoyed free cake, coffee and tea in the Jubilee, took pictures with the DCDSB50 sign and shopped from the vendors. A special thank you to the 50th Anniversary Picnic committee who worked for a year on all the details for this great day. Bravo to:

Joni MacLean,
Stephanie Mandziuk,
Elizabeth Torok-Orban
Elizabeth McCrory
Jennifer Principe
Lorraine Clarke
Claudette Stokes
Camilla Brown
James Tremblay
Geraldine Borg
Sofia Zamorano
Theresa Coreless
Dominic Pullano and
Ana Smith.

DCPIC Year-end Parent Survey

Fri, 02 Jun 2017 18:00:00 GMT

Dear Parent(s)/Guardian(s),

This is a final reminder that the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee is conducting a year-end survey. By participating in this short survey, you will help the committee plan activities that will support parent engagement during the 2017/2018 school year. Your response is required no later than Tuesday, June 7th, 2017. Thank you for your consideration.

Please follow this link to access the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/dcpic2017

e-CAMP WeAVE-IC AV and Music Production

Thu, 25 Jan 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Calling All Aspiring Musicians and Producers - Learn to be a Star!

Culminating in a Community Celebration Talent Show!

You Could Be the Next Youtube Sensation!

HURRY – Only 20 Spaces Available!

Dates: Feb 5, 12, 19; Mar 5, 2018, 4:30-7:30 pm; Community Celebration Talent Show: Mar 7, 2018, 6:00-8:00 pm.

If you are 13-19 years (discretionary outside of this age range) and interested in:

* Theatre, Film or Radio Production

* Live Concerts, DJ, Band or the Arts

* Corporate or Special Events.

Then this FREE Innovative Program Culminating in a Community Celebration Talent Show is for you!

e-CAMP MENTORing INVESTING IN YOUTH – FREE!

Students and their parents will be required to sign a Completion Contract and a Media Release form before starting the program. Register at https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/e-camp-weave-ic-av-and-music-production-tickets-41328791528?aff=es2

WeAVE-IC AV-Music Production and Multicultural Celebration Showcase – a practical experiential learning opportunity run by e-CAMP Mentoring in partnership with the Durham Catholic District School Board and funded by the Government of Ontario.

Durham Catholic District School Board Named One of Canada's Best Employers in 2025 by Forbes

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 14:30:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is proud to announce that it has been included on the Forbes list of Canada’s Best Employers in 2025. This is the second consecutive year DCDSB has received this recognition.

"We are incredibly proud to be named to the Forbes list of Best Employers in Canada for the second consecutive year,” said Gerard Winn, DCDSB Director of Education. “This recognition reflects our commitment to creating and maintaining a supportive and dynamic work environment for our dedicated staff. We will continue to strive towards ensuring that employees are welcomed to a positive learning and working environment as we look to expand and diversify our workforce. Through the efforts and passion of our entire staff we can continue to provide exceptional Catholic education for our students in Durham Region.”

Canada’s Best Employers 2025 were identified through an independent survey of over 40,000 Canada based employees working for companies employing at least 500 people within Canada. The study primarily focused on personal evaluations given by the employees themselves, but also included public evaluations given by friends and family members of employees, or members of the public who work in the same industry. To view the full list of 300 employers, as well as the methodology, please visit the Forbes website.

“We are excited to once again be named as one of Canada’s Best Employers in 2025,” said Monique Forster, Chair of the DCDSB Board of Trustees. “Through the collective efforts of our staff, our union partners, and our leadership, we are able to provide exceptional working and learning environments. When our staff feel supported, welcomed and respected, they are empowered to provide excellent learning opportunities for our students as we aim to support faith and well-being, advance human rights and equity, and improve student learning.”

To learn more about rewarding career opportunities with the Durham Catholic District School Board, please visit dcdsb.ca/Careers.

DCDSB News: February 2022

Fri, 04 Feb 2022 18:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Our February 2022 DCDSB News is now available! Please click here to view the newsletter.

February’s newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what's happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

Black Excellence, Celebration, History Lives Here.
DCDSB Updates: 2022-2023 School Year Calendar Survey; Reverend John Markle Home School Communications Award; Provincial Government Announces New Unnamed Seaton #1 Catholic Elementary School and Additions to St. Anne Catholic School; Register to vote in the 2022 Ontario Municipal and School Board Elections.
DCDSB Students: Student Spotlight; Stand Up to Bulling Week and Pink Shirt Day; STEM and Short-Term Asynchronous Remote Learning; Student Mental Health in Action at Father Leo J. Austin CSS.
Mental Health and Well-Being: Black Mental Health Day; School Mental Health Ontario Video Series; School Mental Health Ontario's Read Aloud Videos; DCDSB's Social Work Access Line.
Faith: Students at St. Mary Catholic Secondary School on A Community of Faith.
Resources for Students and Families: COVID-19 Fact Sheets from Durham Region Health Department; COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics for Children Ages 5 – 11.
Continuing Education: Prepare for Work or Post-Secondary with Employment and Training programs at Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre.
Indigenous Education: Trent University 46th Annual Elders & Traditional Peoples Gathering; Upcoming Durham College Indigenous Learning Opportunities; Have a Heart Day; Ontario Native Women's Association - Honouring Mother Earth Art Contest.
Upcoming Events, Recognition Days and more.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

May 2021 - DCDSB's Celebrating Student Success Newsletter

Fri, 28 May 2021 16:30:00 GMT

Read the latest issue of the Student Success Newsletter. This month’s issue features stories on:

Exploring Pathways: Build a Dream Trades Week Event; DCDSB Announces Introduction of New Grade 12 Course: Deconstructing Anti-Black Racism in the Canadian and North American Context.
Experiential Learning: Reflection on a Cooperative Education Experience Job Task; DCDSB Students Participate in National Future City Showcase.
Student Voice: Children's Mental Health Week Videos from Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School; Student from St. Bernadette Catholic School Shares Culminating Project; St. Mary Catholic Secondary School Students Find Success in Regional Level One Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program; St. Bernard Catholic School Coding Project.
Student Services/Mental Health: St. Mary Catholic Secondary School Safe and Caring Schools Team.
Indigenous Education: Students from Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School Continue Learning through OYAP Partnership.
Adult and Continuing Education: Young Parent School Program.

Upcoming Events:

May 31 - June 4 - AccessAbility Week
June 1-5 – Canadian Environment Week
June 3 – Clean Air Day Canada
June 5 – National Day to Promote Health and Fitness for all Canadians
June 9 - Together in Prayer - Live Eucharistic Adoration @ St. Isaac Jogues Parish 12:30 - 1:00 p.m.
June 17 - Graduation Ceremony for Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre
June 13-19 – National Public Service Week
June 21 – National Indigenous People’s Day
June 23 – National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism
June 27 – Canadian Multiculturalism Day
June 28 - Graduation Ceremonies for All Saints Catholic Secondary School and Archbishop Denis O'Connor Catholic High School
June 29 - Graduation Ceremonies for Father Donald MacLellan Catholic Secondary School, Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School, Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School, Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School, Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School and St. Mary Catholic Secondary School

Letter from Minister of Education

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 15:45:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

Please see the attached letter from the Minister of Education regarding cellphone usage and anti-vaping policies in schools.

Sincerely,
Durham Catholic District School Board

DCDSB News: March 2022

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Our March 2022 DCDSB News is now available! Please click here to view the newsletter.

Our March newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what's happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

Message from the Chair of the Board of Trustees and Director of Education.
DCDSB Updates: Stand Up, Be Counted, Be Heard Student Census; International Travel Requirements During March Break; Upcoming COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics; and Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation.
Faith: Lenten Calendars.
DCDSB Students: Student Spotlight – Faith, St. Mary Catholic Secondary School Student; Student Spotlight – Equity Team at St. John Paul II Catholic School; Arts Program at Monsignor John Pereyma Catholic Secondary School; and Post-Secondary Pathways Planning.
Mental Health and Well-Being: Black Mental Health Day – March 7, 2022.
Continuing Education: Registration for Head Start Program and Reach Ahead Program is Now Available.
Indigenous Education: Indigenous Languages Day; Indigenous Student Circle; and Boil Water Advisory Lifted on Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation After 13 Years.
Upcoming Events, Recognition Days and more.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Information: Novel Coronavirus

Mon, 27 Jan 2020 18:45:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The health and safety of our students and staff is a high priority for the Durham Catholic District School Board. With recent reports regarding the Novel Coronavirus, we wanted to share some important information with you.

We are working with our partners at the Durham Region Health Department and the Ministry of Health as we continue to monitor the situation closely.

Please be aware that we continue to follow standard cleaning and disinfection protocols throughout our buildings. We also remind students, staff and visitors in our schools about best practices to reduce the spread of any illnesses. These include covering your mouth and nose if you cough or sneeze, washing your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water, and staying at home if you are not feeling well.

Parents and guardians are reminded to consult their physician if they have any concerns about their child’s health and inform the school if your child has been diagnosed with Novel Coronavirus.

For more information, please refer to the attached Novel Coronavirus fact sheet from the Durham Region Health Department and Ministry of Health letter to school boards.

Sincerely,

Janine Bowyer,
Superintendent of Education
Student Services, Safe and Accepting Schools, Policy Development

International Day of Peace

Fri, 20 Sep 2019 19:00:00 GMT

Sunday, September 21 is International Day of Peace. Established in 1981 by the United Nations, Peace Day is a globally shared date for all humanity to commit to Peace above all differences. Our students and staff at the Durham Catholic District School Board are committed to building a culture of peace and being hope for the world.

This year’s theme for Peace Day is promoting the importance of fighting climate change. We all have a responsibility to protect Mother Earth and to promote peace. Join us in engaging in International Day of Peace in diverse and meaningful ways.

DCDSB Students Participate in National Future City Showcase

Wed, 05 May 2021 13:00:00 GMT

The Future City competition is offered worldwide on a yearly basis. This STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) based project is annually offered to students in Grades 6-8, and asks students to imagine how they can make the world a better place. Students must create a city that operates in the future, and that showcases solutions to potential issues. Past topics have included clean drinking water, public spaces, and green energy.

This year, the problem posed was literally out of this world! It challenged students to think about how to create a sustainable city that could possibly exist on the Earth's Moon in one hundred years from now.

Since October 2020, over 300 Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) Grade 6-8 students have researched, planned and built a model city to scale, to address the numerous problems that living on the Moon would pose.

Engineer mentors were assigned and virtually connected with each class. The Canadian Space Agency also offered a live virtual question-and-answer session for students in March 2021.

The DCDSB would like to thank the 18 teacher leads that gave their students this opportunity during a pandemic! We are also very proud to acknowledge that DCDSB led the entire country in school board participation.

The DCDSB would like to thank Engineers Canada for financially supporting participating classrooms with maker-space tools and supplies. In addition, we would also like to acknowledge Engineers of Tomorrow and Ontario Tech University for connecting classes with engineer mentors as well as organizing the Canada-wide showcase.

The National Future City Showcase takes place on Wednesday, May 5, 2021 and we wish our participating students all the best as they prepare their live presentations, which will be followed by a question-and-answer session with an engineering panel.

DCPIC is Accepting Nominations for Parent and Community Representatives

Fri, 06 Sep 2019 16:00:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) is seeking nominations for Parent Representatives and three (3) Community Representatives on the committee beginning October 2019. We are looking for strong supporters of Catholic Education who have:

Experience working with a local Catholic School Council;
An understanding of the importance of parent, family and community engagement gained through a professional or volunteer experience;
A commitment to keeping up with educational initiatives;
Strong communication skills;
Committed to engaging parents in supporting their children’s learning;
Ability to work as a team player, resolve conflict and generate ideas.

If you are interested in volunteering and providing parent engagement at the Board level, you are encouraged to complete the following:

Parent Representatives

Applicants for the Parent Representative position are required to complete the online nomination form available at https://www.dcpic.ca/en/our-committee/current-opportunities.aspx

Community Representatives

Applicants for the Community Representative position are required to provide:

A letter indicating their interest in the position of Community representative which includes:

your reasons for applying;
your interest in the Durham Catholic District School Board and Catholic
Education;

A resume outlining relevant experience;
Proof of being an English Language Roman Catholic School Board Supporter on the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) form;
A pastoral reference letter;
A current Criminal Reference Check with Vulnerable Sector (within six (6) months).

Applications for the Community Representative position can be emailed to Lori Jones at lori.jones@dcdsb.ca, or hand delivered to the Catholic Education Centre, 650 Rossland Road West, Oshawa.

Closing Date for Nominations

All nominations are due by Tuesday, October 1, 2019 at 5:00 p.m. EST.

Pursuant to the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA), if you require accommodation at any time throughout the application process, please contact Lori Jones at lori.jones@dcdsb.ca prior to the posting closing date so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

For more information about the committee, visit dcpic.ca.

Female Students are invited to Let's Talk Trades

Fri, 27 Oct 2017 15:30:00 GMT

Thinking about your future pathway options?

Female students in Grades 7-10 and their parents/guardians are invited to learn more about the opportunities in the skilled trades and the apprenticeship pathway.

Keynote speaker, Jamie McMillan is ann Ironworker and Tradeswomen advocate who will share her career journey over dinner.

Space is limited, so please register at https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/lets-talk-trades-tickets-38408097654?aff=ehomecard

Maximum of 2 guests per student (Parent/guardian).

Share your Ideas and Comments on the Future of Catholic Education

Wed, 10 May 2017 13:00:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board is inviting all interested parents and guardians to participate in the Institute for Catholic Education’s (ICE) new online dialogue discussion regarding Renewing the Promise: Exploring the Critical Role of Catholic Education in Contemporary Society.

We are holding an information session tonight:

Wednesday, May 10, 2017 at 7:00 p.m.
at the Durham Catholic District School Board’s Pope Francis Centre
652 Rossland Road West, Oshawa

You can also share yourideas and comments online by clicking on the Renewing the Promise website banner located on Board’s website at dcdsb.ca or on your child’s school website.

Your feedback will help shape the future of Catholic Education. We look forward to seeing you tomorrow night.

Phenomenal DECA Football Finishes

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 14:45:00 GMT

On October 18, over 400 Grade 7 and 8 student athletes from 29 Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) elementary schools demonstrated their Football prowess during the Durham Elementary Catholic Athletics (DECA) divisional tournaments.

In the end, the following seven school teams were victorious:

St. André Bessette (Ajax)
St. Isaac Jogues (Pickering)
St. John Paul II (Brooklin)
St. Joseph (Oshawa)
St. Luke the Evangelist (Whitby)
St. Mark the Evangelist (Oshawa)
St. Matthew the Evangelist (Whitby)

These seven teams then played-off for the DECA Co-Ed Football Championship on October 25 at Father Leo J. Austin CSS, with St. André Bessette prevailing over St. Luke to become the 2023-2024 DECA Champs!

Thanks to all the volunteer DCDSB staff members that sacrificed their time to mentor the students, giving them an opportunity to play and represent their school. A special shout-out also goes out to the seven Divisional Conveners and DECA Flag Football Coordinator Sean Molony for all their organizational skills.

Finally, congratulations to all those that participated. Flag Football will be an Olympic Sport in 2028; maybe some of these athletes will be future Olympians!

Grade 1 French Immersion Parent Information Nights

Tue, 15 Nov 2016 13:45:00 GMT

We welcome all students into our French Immersion program at schools across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

You are invited to enrol your child through our online registration process at dcdsb.ca from December 12, 2016 to January 20, 2017. Students must be entering Grade 1 in September 2017 to register.

For more information about the French Immersion Program, please attend one of the following sessions:

Dates	Times	Locations
Tuesday, November 29, 2016	7:00 p.m.	St. Patrick Catholic School 280 Delaney Drive Ajax, ON
Tuesday, November 29, 2016	7:00 p.m.	St. Joseph Catholic School 25 Quaker Village Drive Uxbridge, ON
Wednesday, November 30, 2016	7:00 p.m.	St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School 1425 Coldstream Drive Oshawa, ON
Wednesday, November 30, 2016	7:00 p.m.	St. Monica Catholic School 275 Twyn Rivers Drive Pickering, ON
Wednesday, November 30, 2016	7:00 p.m.	St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic School 95 Waller Street Whitby, ON

Opening Doors to Opportunities!

10th Annual Durham Catholic Children's Foundation Gala

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 14:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians, and Caregivers,

We are writing on behalf of Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing hope to students in need in our community. The Foundation has been actively working towards this mission for the past 10 years, and we have made significant strides in providing essential services and support to children and families in need. We recognize that now, more than ever, students and families in our Durham Catholic learning community need our help.

Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation is pleased to announce the 10^th Annual Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation Gala, where 100% of the proceeds raised will go towards supporting Durham Catholic students and families. The gala will be held on Thursday, May 16, 2024, at the Ajax Convention Centre (550 Beck Crescent, Ajax). Bringing together staff, parents, clergy, and community partners from across the region, the gala will recognize the Most Reverend Bishop Vincent Nguyen and celebrate the 2024 Durham Catholic Distinguished Alumni Award recipients. The keynote speaker will be Saroya Tinker, a Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School alumnus, and former all-star defender for the National Women’s Hockey League and Professional Hockey Federation player. Currently, Ms. Tinker is the Equity Director for the Professional Women’s Hockey Association and an analyst for CBC, Sportsnet and TSN. Tickets for the event can be purchased now at DurhamCatholicFoundation.ca/Gala at a cost of $130 per person.

The gala also has various sponsorship opportunities, ranging from Silent Auction prize donations, through to various levels of sponsorship. Your sponsorship of the 10^th Annual Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation Gala means contributing to an important cause and gaining exposure and recognition for your commitment to corporate social responsibility. This support will be acknowledged through various channels, including all gala materials, media releases, social media, and the Foundation’s website.

We would like to personally invite you to share in this celebration of community and be part of this year’s event. We thank you in advance for your continued partnership and support. Your generosity will make a meaningful difference in the lives of our very own Durham Catholic students.

Sincerely,

Bernadette Santiago, Chair Tracy Barill, Director of Education
Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation Durham Catholic District School Board

April 2021 - DCDSB's Celebrating Student Success Newsletter

Fri, 30 Apr 2021 16:00:00 GMT

Read the latest issue of the Student Success Newsletter. This month’s issue features stories on:

Exploring Pathways: “Is It Ever Too Early to Start Planning?” Event; All Saints Catholic Secondary School Receives Vehicle Donation from Marigold Ford Lincoln and Lincoln Canada.
Experiential Learning: Reflection on a Cooperative Education Experience Job Task.
Student Voice: The Riveters at All Saints Catholic Secondary School; Emmanuella O. from St. Mary Catholic Secondary School Named a 2021 Loran Scholar; Grade 7/8 Regional Arts & Media Program Dance Students Use the Arts as a Form of Environmental Activism for Earth Day.
Student Services/Mental Health: Mental Health Poster Contest.
Adult and Continuing Education: Are You Thinking About Your Next Steps? Employment Training Programs.

Upcoming Event: Catholic Education Week and Children's Mental Health Week: Nurturing Hope; Cultivating Gratitude (May 3-7, 2021)

Daily Themes:

Monday, May 3, 2021: Preparing the Earth / Préparer la terre
Nurturing Hope; Cultivating Gratitude Postcard Campaign
Tuesday, May 4, 2021: Sowing Seeds of Gratitude/ Semer la gratitude
YouTube Premiere event for the Distinguished Catholic Educator and Leader Awards Celebration at 4:30 p.m.
Wednesday, May 5, 2021: Cultivating Relationships / Cultiver nos relations
Catholic Education Week Province Wide Virtual Mass at 11:00 a.m. with His Eminence, Thomas Cardinal Collins
Thursday, May 6, 2021: Harvesting New Fruit / Récolter de nouveaux fruits
Distinguished Catholic Alumni Award Recipients Announced
Friday, May 7, 2021: Marvelling in Wonder / S’émerveiller
Sharing Messages of Hope and Gratitude in our Community

Stay connected and sign up to receive the newsletter directly in your inbox.

Message from the Minister of Education

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 12:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

As the 2022-2023 school year comes to a close, Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education, has prepared messages to Ontario parents, students and graduates.

Please see the attached letter.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee Nominations

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 12:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

Our online Self-Nomination Form is open from Tuesday, September 10, 2024, until Monday, September 30, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. EST. Each eligible applicant who completes the Self-Nomination Form will be invited to speak at the in-person DCPIC meeting on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. Further details will be sent to eligible applicants via email after the deadline.

For information on the DCPIC, including how our committee works and who is eligible to sit on the committee, please visit our Frequently Asked Questions webpage.

Thank you for your interest and support of the DCPIC.

Yours in Faith,

Rose LoPresti
Chair, Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee

DCPIC Welcome to the 2021-2022 School Year Virtual Information Session for Parents and Guardians

Tue, 31 Aug 2021 19:00:00 GMT

Dear Families,

The Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) is hosting a “Welcome to the 2021-2022 School Year Virtual Information Session for Parents and Guardians” on Wednesday, September 1, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. This session will include information about the 2021-2022 school year, and also includes information and answers to the questions that parents/guardians were invited to submit.

This virtual event is a YouTube Premiere event, hosted on the DCDSB’s YouTube channel, and will also be available to watch on YouTube at any time if you are unable to join us on September 1, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. Please click here to view this YouTube Premiere event.

For further information on the 2021-2022 school year, please visit the DCDSB’s Return to Learning webpage.

For further information on the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) please visit our website.

Yours in Faith,

Melissa Bevan
Chair, Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee

Community Consultation on Ontario's Well-Being Strategy

Tue, 29 Nov 2016 14:00:00 GMT

The Ministry of Education is working with all stakeholders to develop a shared vision of how we can best support the well-being of all students. The Durham Catholic District School Board's Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) will be hosting a Well-being Engagement Session for parents during our December 6, 2016 meeting. All parents are welcome to attend and provide input. The meeting begins at 7:30 p.m. at our Catholic Education Centre, 650 Rossland Rd. W in Oshawa.

Letter from the Chief Medical Officer of Health and Minister of Education

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 17:15:00 GMT

January 1, 2022

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We are sending the following letter on behalf of the Chief Medical Officer of Health and Minister of Education. The letter contains information regarding the return to school on January 5, 2022 and new guidelines for COVID-19 isolation.

Wishing you a safe and Happy New Year filled with love and hope. God Bless our Durham Catholic community!

Yours in Faith,

Durham Catholic District School Board

Durham Catholic District School Board Trustees Elect Chair and Vice-Chair for 2025

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 21:30:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is pleased to share the results of the election of the Chair and Vice-Chair of the Board of Trustees, which took place at the Annual Board Meeting on November 25, 2024.

Monique Forster, Trustee for the Town of Ajax, was re-elected to the position of Chair of the Board. Ms. Forster was first elected as a Trustee for the Town of Ajax in 2014 and has been re-elected twice. Trustee Forster has served as Chair of the Board of Trustees for the past year, and recently served on the Board’s Finance Committee, Board Award of Merit Committee, Trustee Youth Award Committee, Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation, and a joint committee for Durham Student Transportation Services, amongst others over the past decade.

“I am grateful to have the opportunity to continue to serve the students, staff and families of the Durham Catholic District School Board as the Chair of the Board of Trustees,” said Chair Forster. “I am proud of the work that we are doing, particularly in the areas of student achievement, faith formation and diversity, equity and inclusion. I feel inspired by our priorities and our commitment to continue to be aware of and responsive to the needs of all those we serve, as we work to forge and grow community partnerships with unity of purpose.”

Kim Beatty, Trustee for the City of Oshawa, was elected for the position of Vice-Chair. Ms. Beatty was first elected Trustee for the City of Oshawa in 2022. Over the last two years, she has served in several roles, including on the Supervised Alternative Learning Committee, Student Senate, Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee and the Finance Committee.

Vice-Chair Beatty thanked fellow trustees for their support, “I am so grateful to my fellow Trustees for their support and partnership. I am committed to DCDSB, as this system didn’t just educate my daughter - it gave me opportunities to grow in my own faith. I want other families to have the same opportunity to grow in their faith.”

On behalf of the Board’s Senior Administrative Team, Gerard Winn, Director of Education, extended congratulations to Chair Forster and Vice-Chair Beatty.

“I want to extend our gratitude to our Durham Catholic District School Board Trustees whose strategic decision-making makes a difference in the lives of our students, staff and families,” said Director Winn. “Congratulations to Chair Forster and Vice-Chair Beatty – I look forward to serving with you in the year ahead. Your leadership and dedication to our system is fundamental to supporting learning environments where all students can thrive academically, spiritually, and personally. We are blessed at Durham Catholic to have a committed and passionate group of individuals leading our Board.”

2025 Durham Catholic District School Board of Trustees

Chair of the Board: Monique Forster, Trustee for the Town of Ajax
Vice-Chair of the Board: Kim Beatty, Trustee for the City of Oshawa

Trustees:

Kim Beatty, City of Oshawa
Richard Damianopoulos, Townships of Scugog, Uxbridge and Brock
Robert De Souza, Town of Whitby
Janelle Emanuel, Town of Whitby
Monique Forster, Town of Ajax
Marisa Hall, Town of Ajax
Jim McCafferty, City of Pickering
Morgan Ste. Marie, City of Oshawa

Student Trustees:

Ololade Aje
Aoife Walsh

Please visit our website for further information about the DCDSB Board of Trustees.

DCDSB News - September 2024 Issue

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 17:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

The September 2024 issue of the DCDSB News is now available. This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what's happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

Faith
- Living in Hope at St. Joseph Catholic School in Oshawa
Indigenous Education in Action
- National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation
- #ForeTheKids Golf Classic
DCDSB Updates
- Beacons of Hope
- Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) Nominations
- DCDSB Black Student Excellence Awards
- TRAILS to Wellness: Coping with Anxiety Virtual Group for Grade 3-6 Students
- Edsby Support
- Math Supports for Families
- Universal Reading Screener Assessments for Year 2 Kindergarten, Grade 1, and Grade 2 Students
- Empowering Our Community Through Mathematics
Mental Health and Well-Being
- How to Help Your Child Have a Mentally Healthy Return to School
DCDSB Students
- Black Youth in STEM Summer Camp
Continuing Education
- Oshawa Campus – We’ve Moved!
- Register for Adult Education Programs with Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre
- International Languages Program
Upcoming Events

Sincerely,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Register for the Arts & Media Program's Student Audition Workshop

Wed, 04 Oct 2017 20:00:00 GMT

Students in Grades 6, 7, and 8 who are interested in applying to the Regional Arts & Media Program at All Saints Catholic Secondary School are encouraged to attend the Student Audition Workshop C-AMP.

Registration is now open for the Saturday, October 28 and Sunday, October 29 workshop taking place at Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School, in Ajax.

This workshop will focus on preparing students for the audition and application process. Attendance at this workshop is not mandatory in order to apply.

See the registration form below for details. For more information about the Arts & Media Program visit dcdsb.ca/amp

17th Annual Durham Black History Month Celebration

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 13:30:00 GMT

Durham Catholic District School Board is continuing our partnership with Cultural Expressions Art Gallery Inc., who is presenting the 17th Annual Durham Black History Month Celebration on February 3 and 4, 2024. It is Durham’s longest running and most extensive, free Black History Month event, celebrating the beauty of Black culture and the diversity of the Black experience in Durham Region. The event on Saturday, February 3 will start with community networking at 4:00 p.m., followed by performances by an evening of celebration hosted by Sean Mauricette in the Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School/J. Clarke Richardson Collegiate auditorium.

To learn more and to register visit durhamblackhistorymonth.com

April's Issue of Celebrating Student Success Newsletter

Tue, 02 Apr 2019 16:30:00 GMT

The April issue of Celebrating Student Success newsletter is now available.

This issue features articles on:

Year of Joy – Dwyer Reaches for the Top;
Mental Health – Parents and Caregivers invited to a Mental Health Event hosted by TAMI Coalition;
Experiential Learning – Business SHSM Students Complete Certification Event in Teamwork and Leadership Skills;
“Give is Up for the Earth”;

Expanding Pathways – Now Accepting OYAP Level 1 Applications for 2020;
Grade 8 Students participate in Gold Collar Trades Learning;
Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School’s OYAP Students Share their Experiences;
Student Success – Alumni Share Their Success Stories – Former Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School Student share his OYAP Success Story;

Upcoming Events – Student Summit – Indigenous Education.

Stay connected and sign up to receive the newsletter directly in your inbox.

DCDSB Let's Talk Day - November 28

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 13:00:00 GMT

Today is DCDSB Let’s Talk Day, a day for us to talk about mental health and the ways that anyone can reach out for help!

In Ontario, schools are the most common place where children and youth access mental health supports. You can work with your school to help make sure your child gets the support they need. If you’re concerned about your child’s mental health, you can speak to your child’s classroom teacher or another school staff member with whom you have a relationship. If you are not sure where to go for help, you can always reach out to the DCDSB Social Work Access Line by calling 905-576-6150 ext. 21021 or filling out this form.

For more information about accessing support for your child please visit School Mental Health Ontario’s Website, or DCDSB’s Mental Health and Well-Being page. Information for adults seeking support is also available on this page. Let’s use this day to talk and reach out!

DCDSB Special Education Review

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 15:30:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) will be conducting a Special Education Review with broad input from students, staff, families and partners. In alignment with DCDSB’s commitment to Equity, we have partnered with the Abilities Centre to facilitate the LEAD (Leading Equitable and Accessible Delivery) Process, where we will be engaged in a comprehensive self-assessment to develop an improvement plan to work towards transformational change.

One of the key outcomes is to build capacity in special education knowledge, and consistency in the implementation of effective programs and/or services for students with special education needs.

A committee has been established with representation from various employee groups to work through the LEAD Process. Throughout this process, there will be opportunities for all students, staff, families, and other partners to provide input and feedback.

We invite parents, guardians, and caregivers to provide input and feedback on the DCDSB’s delivery of special education programming and supports for students through a brief survey.

Complete the Special Education Review survey here. The survey will remain open until Friday, November 4, 2022.

Upcoming Kindergarten Registration for 2020-2021

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 14:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents and Guardians,

You are invited to register your child for Kindergarten at one of the Durham Catholic schools across the region. Your child must be turning four years of age by December 31, 2020 in order to enroll. Online registration will take place January 13 – 17, 2020. Visit www.dcdsb.ca to register. For questions, email admissions@dcdsb.ca. Once you have completed the online registration process, please call the school to make an appointment to complete your registration.

Students who are eligible to attend Kindergarten Year One in September 2020 must register online and have a designated home school determined by home address. In accordance with the Durham Catholic District School Board Policy PO428 – Exception to School Attendance Areas, parents and guardians may have a need or legitimate reason for wanting a child to attend a school other than their designated home school. In such cases the online registration will be directed to the school they have requested.

Ajax

St. James Catholic School
St. Patrick Catholic School
St. Josephine Bakhita Catholic School

Oshawa

St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School
St. Christopher Catholic School

Whitby

St. John the Evangelist Catholic School

As such, approval for exception to school attendance areas at these schools will be limited. Please note that transportation will not be provided for an out of boundary school. Should you have any questions, please contact your child’s home school.

Yours in Catholic Education,

G. O’Reilly, Superintendent of Education,
Early Learning

DCDSB Elementary Students Participate in Virtual Daily Physical Activity Sessions with City of Oshawa Recreation Staff

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 16:00:00 GMT

Elementary students across the Durham Catholic District School Board are participating in Daily Physical Activity sessions provided by the City of Oshawa’s Recreation and Culture Services Branch. Program staff have been hosting live virtual 15-minute sessions geared towards students. These Daily Physical Activity sessions are adapted for use in a classroom or home environment, where space may be limited.

Each 15-minute session has a theme, such as Zumba, Physical Literacy, Muscle Movement, Dance and Movement, and Introduction to CPR.

Students from our Durham Catholic Virtual Elementary School have particularly enjoyed participating in these fun movement breaks. “I like the City of Oshawa movement sessions because there are different types of dancing. I like how they play music, and they make me ready to start the day” said Peyton B., Grade 6 student at the Durham Catholic Virtual Elementary School.

Recreation and Culture Services staff offered 60 sessions between February 16 – March 11, 2021. Approximately 35 classes per day participated, which amounted to 700 students per day! Over 12,000 students participated in these daily movement sessions over the past four weeks.

“We want to thank the City of Oshawa for offering these sessions to our students. Our school communities can incorporate these sessions into their daily learning and offer a different, exciting way to ensure students remain active and focused on healthy living” said Mariah O’Reilly, Superintendent of Education at the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Nominate Your School for Outstanding Communications

Mon, 10 Feb 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Our Durham Catholic schools are committed to engaging with our communities by delivering timely, effective and open communication with the most appropriate tools and technology available. The selection committee is accepting nominations for the Rev. John Markle Home-School Communication Award from parents, guardians and students who believe their school has done an outstanding job in communicating with students and families over the 2019-2020 school year. One elementary and one secondary school will be selected to receive the award at the May 25, 2020 Board Meeting.

How to nominate a school

Submit a short paragraph (maximum 150 words) describing how your school demonstrates excellence in the area of home-school communications. Your submission should include examples of how your school demonstrate one or more of the following:

Communication from the school demonstrating our faith-based values and Catholicity.
Newsletters providing relevant information in a format that is easy to read.
School website is updated regularly with informative and meaningful content.
Social media posts include relevant and interesting information for followers.
Emails and/or phone calls are used appropriately and effectively to notify parents of important notices.
Board information is distributed in a timely manner.

Your submission should include pictures of social media posts or emails, copies of newsletters or web links to show samples of outstanding home-school communications.

Submissions can be sent by email indicating Rev. John Markle Award in the subject line to communications@dcdsb.ca or delivered in a sealed envelope addressed to:

Communications - Rev. John Markle Award
Durham Catholic District School Board
650 Rossland Rd. West, Oshawa, ON L1J 7C4

Selection Committee

The winning schools will be selected by a committee consisting of one Trustee representative and two Student Trustees.

Deadline

Submission will be accepted til Friday, March 6, 2020 at 5:00 p.m.

2023 Walk for Hope

Wed, 31 May 2023 14:30:00 GMT

Schools across Durham Catholic District School Board will be participating in the Walk for Hope in support of the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation in June 2023. Students and staff will be invited to donate “virtual” toonies to support Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation initiatives. Funds collected will assist the Foundation in helping children and families in the Durham Catholic District School Board. The purpose of the Foundation is to ensure that students in the Durham Catholic District School Board can attend school with the basic daily necessities of life provided. In addition, it supports students’ participation in all aspects of school life, enabling them to work towards reaching their full potential.

All donations will be made through School Cash Online. Our goal this year is to raise $15,000 board-wide! 100% of the donations go directly to support the initiatives of the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation

Thank you for supporting the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation.

Call for Applications - Board of Directors for the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 13:15:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation was established to help ensure Durham Catholic District School Board students are able to attend school with the basic daily necessities of life by supporting the whole student in mind, body, and spirit while fostering positive learning outcomes.

Through signature fundraising events and donor contributions, the Foundation enables a formal mechanism for coordinating charitable initiatives and raising funds to support student participation in all aspects of school life.

Vacancies - Community Representatives
Currently, the Foundation is seeking to add three community representatives to its talented group of volunteers on its Board of Directors.

Skills that would complement our current Board of Directors include, but not limited to:

Board Governance
Fundraising or Non-Profit/Marketing
Education Industry
Human Resources/Talent Management
Legal
Risk Management/Insurance
Strategic Planning

Commitments and duties of Board members include (currently under review):

Serve a 3-year term (with potential for subsequent renewals)
Monthly time commitment – less than 2-3 hours (approximately)
Attend Board Meetings – 4-5 per year
Be prepared for, actively participate, and attend board meetings
Contribute and assist in the success of fundraising events and grants
Promote the work of the Foundation and support its public outreach efforts within the community

Applications
Interested individuals are invited to apply to Marie Hammond, Resource to the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation at info@durhamcatholicfoundation.ca by Friday, September 26, 2025.

The application package should include the following:

A letter indicating their interest in the position of Community Representative on the Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation; and
A curriculum vitae outlining relevant personal and professional experience.

To qualify, interested individuals:

Must show proof that they are a Canadian citizen at least 18 years of age – and resides within the jurisdiction of the Durham Catholic District School Board; and
Shall not be an employee, trustee, or immediate family member of an employee or trustee of the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Applicants considered will be invited to attend a panel interview.

The Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation is committed to a diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment where all applicants are considered and feel respected and valued regardless of gender, age, race, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation or identity, disability, education, or any other bias.

Pursuant to the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA), if you require accommodation at any time throughout the application process, please contact Candice Cavalier, Candice.cavalier@dcdsb.ca prior to the closing date so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

Join us for Together in Prayer this Lenten Season

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 15:00:00 GMT

All DCDSB students, families and staff are invited to join us every Wednesday night from 7:30 - 8:00 p.m. for a Together in Prayer. This weekly Lenten prayer service is an opportunity for us to deepen our relationship with God and gather as a community.

This week's Together in Prayer will be held tonight (February 17, 2021) to celebrate Ash Wednesday Mass with Father David and Father Joseph at St. Francis de Sales Parish.

DCDSB Seeking Parents and Guardians' Input into the 2021-2022 Budget

Fri, 14 May 2021 20:45:00 GMT

May 14, 2021

Dear Parents and Guardians,

This school year, the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) has made significant investments to ensure a safe and healthy learning environment for our students and staff during the pandemic.

At this time, the Board is reviewing the challenges involved in operating during COVID-19 and planning for the uncertainties ahead as we develop our budget for an eventual return to normal at some point during the 2021-2022 school year.

While we are focused on being fiscally responsible and allocating resources efficiently to support student achievement and well-being in a faith-filled environment; resources are limited in terms of how they can be spent.

As part of our budget process, we are seeking your suggestions about investments that the Board should consider for the upcoming year in support of student learning.

We invite you to share your input and ideas by participating in a ThoughtExchange.

The ThoughtExchange is anonymous and will allow you to share your thoughts and rate the thoughts and ideas of others. The ThoughtExchange will be available until May 27, 2021.

Participate in the Parent and Guardian ThoughtExchange, click here.

Thank you for taking the time to offer your input and suggestions and for your continued support of Catholic education in Durham.

Yours in Faith,

Ryan Putnam
Chief Financial Officer

DCDSB News: November 2021

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 17:00:00 GMT

DCDSB News: November 2021
A monthly newsletter to keep parents and guardians informed of DCDSB news, events, and highlights.

Grade 1 French Immersion Virtual Information Session

All Senior Kindergarten/Year 2 Kindergarten families are invited to learn more about Grade 1 French Immersion by attending a virtual information session on November 10, 2021 from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Click here to access the Microsoft Teams event.

Click here to view the PDF poster.

Regional Arts & Media Program

We are excited to invite all Grade 6 and Grade 8 students to apply now for a September 2022 start. If you have a passion for the arts we encourage you to apply – no prior experience is necessary.

Program areas include Dance, Instrumental Music, Media Arts, Performing Arts (Drama and Vocal Music), and Visual Arts.

Upcoming Key Dates:

October 11 – December 13, 2021: Online applications are open
November 20, 2021: Fall audition workshop C-AMP (registration required – no cost)
January 26-28, 2022: Auditions

To learn more visit amp.dcdsb.ca or contact us at amp@dcdsb.ca.

Re-Engagement Survey

In response to the challenges to learning presented by the pandemic, DCDSB is committed to accelerating learning and maximizing engagement for students and families. Results of this parent/guardian survey will be used to inform DCDSB's engagement, teaching and learning strategy for the 2021-22 school year. The valued input of you, our students' first teachers, will also be shared with DCDSB educators and be a consideration for educators when planning instruction.

Please click here to complete the Re-Engagement Survey.

Join Us for Upcoming Student Census Engagement Sessions

DCDSB's Student Census Steering Committee is holding upcoming virtual engagement sessions for parents and guardians of students in Grades 4-12, and community members in November 2021. The consultation sessions will provide staff with an opportunity to review the questions that schools boards across Ontario are required to ask and obtain feedback and ideas into the three additional questions the board will include in the census.

Understand and support the diversity of students and families;
Eliminate barriers to student success; and
Enrich students’ learning by providing the right supports, at the right time, while making schools a safer, more welcoming space to belong.

Staff, students, parents/guardians, and community partners are welcome to attend the following virtual sessions:

November 17 –DCDSB’s Student Census: Black Community Engagement Session
Time: 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Zoom link: https://dcdsb-ca.zoom.us/j/91491191757?pwd=MEhHWTdQbWxOdm9tMFV5eVpPQUxhQT09#success
November 18 – DCDSB’s Student Census: Parent/Guardian and Student Community Engagement Session
Time: 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Zoom link: https://dcdsb-ca.zoom.us/j/99074382935?pwd=YXk3U3pYTmpxQ2NaakJ2bkVKNlhydz09#success

For more information visit dcdsb.ca/studentcensus or email studentcensus@dcdsb.ca

Community of Faith: Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School

At the Durham Catholic District School Board, the spiritual theme this year calls us to reflect on what it means to be A Community of Faith. Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School exemplifies what it means to be a part of a Community of Faith during the Thanksgiving season. Their students and staff collected food for St. Vincent de Paul Society to help give back to the Oshawa community.

Please click here to view the video.

Student Spotlight

Welcome to Student Spotlight, an opportunity to meet and learn about our DCDSB students and how they are promoting Excellence, Equity and Engagement.

This month, we are pleased to introduce Avion B., a Grade 8 student at Sir Albert Love Catholic School in Oshawa.

Please click here to view the November Student Spotlight video.

Cooperative Education

Are you interested in learning more about Cooperative Education at DCDSB? Check out this video to learn more.

Enterprise Airlines in Oshawa has seen many co-op students over the years, and Grade 11 Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School student, Julius, tells us all about his experience so far.

Learn more about Cooperative Education at the Durham Catholic District School Board by visiting our website.

Supporting Your Child's Learning Through Assessment, Evaluation and Reporting

The primary purpose of assessment and evaluation is to improve student learning. Growing Success, Assessment, Evaluation and Reporting in Ontario Schools, acknowledges that assessment for, as and of learning is key to student engagement and success.

Assessment of learning or evaluation occurs at various points in the school year or learning cycle. While communication about student learning and progress should occur on an ongoing basis using a variety of methods (e.g. phone calls, newsletters, websites, student work etc.) in accordance with the Growing Success policy, formal communication to parents/guardians will happen at three times during the school year. All students from Grades 1-8 will receive a fall progress report card and two provincial report cards, one in mid-winter and one at the end of the school year.

For further information please click here.

Elementary Cross-Country Meets

Elementary Cross-Country meets took place from October 4 – October 14, 2021 at Lakeridge Ski Resort in Uxbridge. Over 2,000 Grade 3-8 DCDSB students participated in these meets. This is the first inter-school activity in more than 18 months. A big thank you to DCDSB staff and coaches for all their effort in bringing our students together to participate in these meets!

St. John Bosco Catholic School Learning on the Land

Grade 5 students at St. John Bosco Catholic School in Oshawa enjoyed an afternoon of Learning on the Land with our Indigenous Education team.

Click here to view the video.

International Students

Maria U., a Grade 8 international student, is currently studying at St. Bernard Catholic School in Whitby. She will be a student at St. Bernard CS from September - December 2021. Maria lives in northern Spain, in the region of Basque, province of Biscay, in the town of Gernika. A multi-lingual and talented young lady, she speaks the official language of the region, Basque, as well as Spanish and English. She is currently learning French in Mme. Caputo’s class and is very much enjoying the experience of learning a fourth language.

Maria first learned about the International Education (IE) program through TikTok. She later listened to a presentation given at her school, San-Fidel Ikastola, and was inspired to come to Canada. Her options were to go to Nova Scotia, Ottawa, or Whitby. Two months into her stay, she says she has no regrets having made this choice!

Emilio B. is an international student travelling from the Basque Country which is in the North of Spain. He is currently in Grade 8 and is enrolled at St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic School in Whitby and will be returning home in December 2021. Emilio is a happy and helpful student who enjoys meeting new people and having new experiences in Canada such as learning about Terry Fox and our Thanksgiving traditions. Emilio, has been a wonderful addition to our class and even volunteered his time to help run a flag football tournament!

Register for Adult Education Programs with Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre

Our Adult Education sites in Ajax, Whitby and Oshawa offer Adult Education, Mature Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (mPLAR) and Specialized Training Programs for Pathways to Employment and Post-Secondary Education. Adults who are 18 years of age or older and out of a regular secondary school can register for a variety of programs including:

Adult Day School and Correspondence to earn credits for the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or to upgrade courses for entrance to college, university or apprenticeship;
Adult Dual Credit Program with Durham College;
Adult Upgrading program focused on Literacy and Basic Skills;
Child Care Assistant Training Program;
Custodial Services Training Program;
English as a Second Language courses for adults (non-credit);
Microsoft Office Specialist Training Program;
Personal Support Worker Program;
Raising Healthy Children Program;
Work-4-Credits Program (Cooperative Education);
Young Parent School Program at the Rose of Durham (Oshawa).

Our Adult Day School new semester begins on Tuesday, November 9, 2021.

For more information, visit our website at www.con-ed.ca, check out our Program Guide and/or contact us at:

Ajax – (905) 683-7713 or cont.ed@dcdsb.ca
Oshawa – (905) 438-0570 or credit.reg@dcdsb.ca

Educating with First Nations, Métis and Inuit - Video Production from St. Mary's Catholic Secondary School

The idea of producing Educating With First Nations, Métis and Inuit was brought up by Ms. Walton and Ms. Timperley, who are teachers at St. Mary, along with Grade 12 student, Veda K. The production focuses on a variety of current realities affecting Indigenous communities and people to act by spreading awareness and to take action. It is very important that everyone takes time to participate in Indigenous education as it provides learning opportunities and allows us to listen to Indigenous peoples speak about the truth. Students at St. Mary CSS strongly believe that they must all educate themselves on the injustices impacting Indigenous communities and participate in the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action and fight for change.

Veda carried on this initiative and led the First Nations, Métis and Inuit team at her school to engage and assist in researching current realities impacting Indigenous communities. Many members of the team spent hours collaborating and researching to gather information.

Students would like to convey their thanks and gratitude to Ms. Walton, Ms. Timperley and Ms. Power, who gave students this opportunity, in addition to supporting and guiding students throughout the entire process.

Thank you to Veda K. and the First Nations, Métis and Inuit team at St. Mary's for producing this video!

Click here to view the video on our YouTube channel.

Remote Learning for Students With Special Education Needs

Ontario's Ministry of Education has created resources for families and students regarding remote learning for students with special education needs. Please visit our website for further information and to view these resources.

Families Are Asked to Update Their Child's Immunization Information

What is ICON? ICON is an online tool that allows parents to submit their child’s immunization updates and to view their child’s immunizations on file with the health department.

If you do not have access to a computer, you can report the immunizations by:

Phone: 905-666-6242 or 1-800-841-2729
Fax: 905-666-6216

Durham Region Health department will be resuming catch-up vaccination clinics for students in Grades 8-12 this fall which includes:

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) (2 doses, 6 months apart)
Hepatitis B (2 doses, 6 months apart)
Meningococcal C-ACYW135 (Men C-ACYW135) (one dose only)

If you have any questions, please call the Immunization Program at 905-668-6242 or 1-800-841-2729.

Federal Guidelines for Travelling with Unvaccinated Children Outside of Canada

The Durham Region Health Department has asked the board to remind families of the federal guidelines for unvaccinated children who travel outside of Canada. Please find the federal guidelines and further information on our website.

DCDSB is Hiring! Join Our Durham Catholic Team

Durham Catholic Children's Foundation - Contract Position

The Durham Catholic Children's Foundation has a Foundation Coordinator (Contract - Two-Year Pilot) position available. To learn more about this opportunity, please visit the Durham Catholic Children's Foundation website.

Bullying Prevention and Intervention Week (November 15-19, 2021)

As we work together to create safe and caring school communities, we are reminded to ask God to provide us with the grace, wisdom, and strength to do our part to stand up to bullying in our schools.

During Bullying Prevention and Intervention Week, Ontario students, school staff, and parents/guardians are encouraged to learn more about bullying and its effect on student learning and well-being.

If a student is experiencing a mental health crisis and needs immediate support, they should be encouraged to call: Durham Crisis Line at 1-800-742-1890; or 310- COPE at 1-855-310-COPE (2673); or go to the nearest emergency room).
Kids Help Phone is for anyone age 5 to 20. Counsellors are available 24/7 to support children and teens by phone, text or online chat in English or French. Call: 1-800-668- 6868 or Text CONNECT to 686868.
Black Youth Help Line specifically responds to the need for a Black youth specific service. It promotes access to professional, culturally appropriate support for youth. Open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Call:1-833-294-8650
First Nations and Inuit Hope for Wellness Help Line: offers immediate mental health counselling and crisis intervention to all Indigenous peoples across Canada. 24/7 & toll free, available in English and French. 1-855-242-3310.
DCDSB Social Work Access Line: DCDSB students and families can call the Social Work Access Line and leave a voicemail with their contact information. A DCDSB mental health professional will call them back to provide support. 905- 576-6150 ext. 21021 (Not that this is not a crisis line and is not monitored 24/7).
Be Safe is a mobile app that aims to help youth to make a decision about seeking help in a crisis. Be Safe was developed in full partnership with youth and professionals. It helps youth find help when they need it and supports them through the process of reaching out when it feels overwhelming. Download the BeSafe app today.
For additional mental health supports, please visit our website.

Upcoming Events

Important dates and upcoming events in November 2021 are listed below:

Nov. 1–5 - Treaties Recognition Week
Nov. 6 - Durham Down Syndrome Association (DDSA) Virtual Mini Conference
Nov. 7 - International Inuit Day
Nov. 7 - The End of Daylight Savings Time (clocks turn back 1 hour)
Nov. 8 - National Indigenous Veterans Day
Nov. 8 - Policy Board Meeting at 7:30 p.m.
Nov. 10 - Grade 1 French Immersion Virtual Information Session at 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Nov. 11 - Remembrance Day
Nov. 12 - PA Day (Elementary and Secondary)
Nov. 14-20 - Rock Your Mocs Week
Nov. 15-19 - Bullying Prevention & Intervention Week
Nov. 16 - Louis Riel Day - Raising of the Métis Flag
Nov. 17 - DCDSB Student Census: Black Community Engagement Session at 5:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Nov. 18 - DCDSB Student Census: Parent/Guardian and Student Community Engagement Session at 5:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Nov. 21 - World Fisheries Day
Nov. 22 - Equity Learning Series for All Staff - Decolonizing Activism: Anti-Black Racism and Resistance Work within the Classroom
Nov. 23 - Equity Learning Series for All Staff - Administrators and Accountability: Building Reflective, Responsive and Reparative Learning Environments
Nov. 24 - Equity Learning Series for All Staff - To Burn or Not to Burn – That is the Anti-Black Racism Question?
Nov. 25 - Equity Learning Series for All Staff - Beyond Black History Month: Building a Perennial Presence for Arts, Culture and History
Nov. 28 – First Sunday of Advent
Nov. 28 – Buy Nothing Day

The Aboriginal Post-Secondary Information Program (APSIP) has begun its Fall Tour hosting information for students, educators, parents, and supporters. The aim of this tour is to provide prospective Indigenous post-secondary students the opportunity to connect, explore and discover the array of options available to them for post-secondary studies. For more information and to register, please click here.

Please visit our calendar for more important dates and upcoming events.

2021 DCPIC Parent/Guardian Survey

Thu, 13 May 2021 16:00:00 GMT

The Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) is a parent/guardian-led advisory committee working within the Durham Catholic District School Board. The committee is conducting a parent/guardian survey that will assist in setting the committee’s direction for the 2021/2022 school year.

The survey consists of six questions and will take approximately five minutes to complete. To complete the survey, please click here.

Christmas Break Reminders for Families

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 19:30:00 GMT

Dear Parents/Guardians,

As we are nearing the Christmas break, we wanted to share a few reminders.

Return to School in January

Currently there is no direction from the Ministry of Education, Ontario Chief Medical Officer of Health or the Durham Region Health Department to close or move to remote learning after the Christmas break. It is our hope that with the necessary layers of protection in place we will be able to continue with in-person learning in the new year.

As a precaution, we are however asking that staff and students bring home all belongings prior to the holiday. This includes clearing the contents of lockers, bringing home spare clothes/indoor shoes, and any other personal items. This will ensure that schools are able to complete deep cleaning over the break. It also means that if individuals are required to isolate, that they have their belongings at home.

We are reviewing our remote readiness plan, and technology deployment would begin after the break if there is a decision to move to a full remote learning model.

School Messenger will be used to notify families of confirmed case close contacts as well as any changes in school operations.

As a reminder, all students will be required to complete a Confirmation of COVID-19 Self-Assessment from January 3 to 14, 2022. Please click here for more details.

Despite the challenges we continue to face, we have seen how much being back in schools has meant to our students. Students have been able to connect with their peers, be involved in extra-curriculars and be actively engaged in learning inside and outside of the classroom. We want to thank all staff and families for your ongoing partnership to support our students.

Travelling over the Christmas Break

The Durham Region Health Department has asked us to remind families of the federal guidelines for travel. As per the Durham Region Health Department and Government of Canada direction, unvaccinated students returning from travel outside of Canada must not attend school or childcare for 14 days after their return. Fully vaccinated students who have travelled outside of Canada and meet the requirements to be exempt from federal quarantine (including passing a pre-entry molecular COVID-19 test) to attend school upon their return. Further details can be found at the Government of Canada website. Please also review the Government of Canada’s Travel Advice and Advisories FAQ ahead of any international travel.

COVID-19 Vaccinations

COVID-19 vaccinations are still available for children aged 5 and up. If you are interested in obtaining a vaccine for your child, please visit the Region of Durham website to book an appointment.

Holiday Gatherings

Durham Region Health Department and Ontario’s Ministry of Health have compiled guidelines and resources for celebrating holidays and festive events safely this winter. Please visit the following websites for further details:

Durham Region Health Department – COVID-19 and Social Gatherings
Ontario Ministry of Health – Celebrate Safely During COVID-19

For those celebrating in the next few weeks, we wish you all the very best during the Christmas season. We hope all of our DCDSB families have a healthy, safe and restful Christmas break.

Yours in faith,

Tracy Barill
Director of Education

Mental Health and Well-Being Series: For Parents, Guardians and Caregivers

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 12:30:00 GMT

Parents, guardians and caregivers are invited to join us for a live virtual series. Community partners and DCDSB staff will explore various topics related to mental health and well-being.

The following sessions will take place over Zoom from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday, April 18: Youth Engagement- Youth and Substance Use Presented by Pinewood Centre of Lakeridge Health
Tuesday, April 25: Life Promotion/Suicide Prevention- Prepare, Prevent Respond Presented by DCDSB Student Services Staff
Tuesday, May 2: Understanding Mood and Anxiety Difficulties Presented by Ontario Shores
Tuesday, May 9: Game-bling: When Gaming meets Gambling, Presented by the YMCA’s Youth Gambling Awareness Program
Tuesday, May 16: The Intersection of Equity and Mental Health Presented by the Black Health Alliance

Access the zoom sessions here.

Meeting ID: 917 6644 0530
Passcode: mentalheal

Now Available - DCPIC Newsletter

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 23:45:00 GMT

The latest issue of the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committe's (DCPIC) newsletter is now available. This issue features articles on:

Message from the DCPIC Chair;
Highlights from the DCPIC Commissioning Mass;
Advent Activities;
Noticing and Responding to Mental Health Concerns;
Complete the School Climate Parent Survey;
Parent Consultation Sessions on Anti-Black Racism and Systemic Discrimination; and
DCPIC Meeting Dates.

To learn more about our committee, visit dcpic.ca

DCDSB News - January 2025

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

The January 2025 issue of the DCDSB News is now available! This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what's happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

Faith
- Living in Hope Student Reflection
- Jubilee 2025
Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation
- Thank You for Participating in Giving Tuesday
- Durham Catholic Children’s Foundation Dart Tournament
DCDSB Updates
- DCDSB Kindergarten Registration is Now Open
- Grade 1 French Immersion Closes January 17
- Nominations Open for DCDSB’s 2025 Distinguished Catholic Alumni Awards
- Submit Nominations for February Beacons of Hope
Parent, Guardian, and Caregiver Resources
- Family Literacy Night
- Grade 9 Provincial EQAO Assessment
- Upcoming ASAD Information Sessions
DCDSB Students
- St. Mary Catholic Secondary School Recognized as an Apple Distinguished School
- St. Joseph Catholic School in Oshawa Named a Top 10 Finalist in the CBC Canadian Music Class Challenge
- DCDSB Students Honoured by Forests Canada and the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario for Commitment to Environmental Sustainability
- Centre for Success Program at Durham Catholic District School Board
Mental Health and Well-Being
- Talking to Your Child About Your Concerns
- Mental Health First Aid – Supporting Youth Virtual Workshop
Continuing Education
- Register for Night School with Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre
Indigenous Education
- Indigenous Graduation Coach
2023-2024 Director’s Annual Report
Upcoming Events

Sincerely,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Financial Literacy Parent Night

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 14:15:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,

The Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee, in partnership with the Durham Catholic District School Board, is pleased to offer a Financial Literacy Parent Night on Thursday, November 21, 2024, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Father Leo J. Austin Catholic Secondary School (1020 Dryden Blvd, Whitby).

Families are invited to attend an interactive presentation to learn how to support your child’s development of financial literacy skills. In this session, families will explore the progression of financial literacy topics covered in each grade and how you can reinforce this learning at home through games and activities. Please complete this form to register to attend.

This is a family-friendly event where children are welcome, and activities are perfect for all ages! Child minding may be available, based on the number of registrations and interest from families.

This session is the first in a three-part series focused on supporting numeracy learning at home. Upcoming sessions will cover topics such as number sense and spatial reasoning, and strategies for supporting students with special education needs.

Registration for this event is required. Please kindly confirm your attendance by completing this form no later than Monday, November 18, 2024.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Sincerely,

Christine Santos
Chair, Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee

Spring into Literacy Conference

Tue, 27 Feb 2018 15:00:00 GMT

7th Annual Conference for Professionals and Parents Supporting Early Literacy Development of Children from Birth to Six Years

Saturday, April 21, 2018 | Whitby

https://grandviewkids.ca/programs-services/programs/speech-language-pathology/spring-into-literacy/

Registration deadline ends on Monday April 9, 2018. Click here to register.

This conference sold out early last year! Register now to avoid disappointment

Intended audience

Early childhood educators, teachers, librarians, speech-language clinicians, child care providers, students, and parents

Certificate of Attendance will be provided to attendees registered as Professionals.

DCDSB News: June 2023

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 20:00:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

The June 2023 issue of the DCDSB News is now available! Please click here to view the newsletter.

This issue of the newsletter offers families an overview of current news, upcoming events, and information on what's happening across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

Highlights include:

Faith

Mother Mary Gardens at St. Wilfrid Catholic School
June is Dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Indigenous Education

June is National Indigenous History Month
DCDSB Students Participate in Carea Community Health Centre’s Walk to Honour MMIWG2S
Ontario Tech University Indigenous History Month Celebrations
Indigenous Education Circle

Local Parish Spotlight - Father Steven Kwon

DCDSB Updates:

DCDSB 2023 - 2024 School Year Calendar
June is Pride Month
Register for Kindergarten

DCDSB Students

DCDSB Student Art Exhibit at Pickering Artfest
Durham Catholic Athletic News: 2023 LOSSA Senior Girls Soccer AAA Championship
Miller Discovery Day Welcomes St. Mary Transportation SHSM Students
DECA - Folk Dance Exhibition
The Future City Experience
Congratulations to Our Project SEARCH Durham Region Interns
"Checkmate!" at DCDSB

Mental Health and Well-Being

Supports for Summer Mental Health

Adult and Continuing Education

Summer School Registration is Open for Elementary and Secondary Students

Upcoming Events

Recognition days and more.

Best,
Durham Catholic District School Board

Complete the DCPIC Online Parent Survey

Fri, 04 May 2018 12:45:00 GMT

Dear Durham Catholic Parents and Guardians,

We want to hear from you!

We welcome input from parents, guardians and caregivers. The survey consists of six questions and will take approximately 5 minutes to complete. To complete the survey, click here.

About DCPIC

Students from St. Joseph Catholic School in Oshawa Win National Student Songwriting Contest

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 14:45:00 GMT

Congratulations to Elysha M., Sierra R., and Laritza A., from St. Joseph Catholic School in Oshawa on winning the Coalition for Music Education Tune Up: Student Songwriting Contest in the Intermediate Category! The Tune Up contest celebrates the musical talents, creativity and passion of young Canadian songwriters.

Elysha, Sierra and Laritza wrote “Hey Mama” and then performed the song.

"I enjoy writing songs, especially with other people," said Elysha M., Grade 8 student. "The first line in the song is "caterpillars from your cocoon," which sparked the idea of a love letter or thank you letter to a parent. We had fun writing this. I write a lot of songs, but this is my first time recording one of my songs. Recording it, with the help of my friends, made it even better!"

“I am in awe of the amazing musical talents and creativity of our students at St. Joseph Catholic School," said Jennifer Principe, Principal of St. Joseph Catholic School (Oshawa). "Elysha, Sierra and Laritza were courageous enough to showcase their songwriter skills through the Tune Up contest, and it is such an honour for them to be recognized nationally for their efforts. I want to offer our sincere congratulations to our incredible students, and I want to thank our staff and families for their ongoing partnership in support of our students.”

Take a listen to the incredible God-given talent of these amazing Grade 7 and Grade 8 students here.

DCPIC Parent/Guardian Survey

Tue, 09 May 2023 16:15:00 GMT

Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers:

The Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) is a parent-led advisory committee working within the Durham Catholic District School Board. The DCPIC is currently conducting a parent/guardian survey that will assist in setting the committee’s direction for the 2023-2024 school year.

We want to hear from you!
We welcome input from parents, guardians and caregivers. The survey consists of seven questions and will take approximately five minutes to complete.

To complete the survey, please click here. The survey will remain open until Friday, May 26, 2023.

About DCPIC
The main purpose of the DCPIC is to encourage, support and enhance meaningful parent/guardian involvement to improve student academic achievement and well-being. By providing a direct link between parents/guardians, Catholic School Councils, the Director of Education and the Board of Trustees, the DCPIC is committed to working in partnership with all stakeholders to promote faith formation and student success in our schools. The DCPIC holds monthly meetings which are open to the public.

To learn more about the DCPIC, please visit dcpic.ca.

Yours in Faith,

Rose Lo Presti
Chair, Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee

Durham Region Health Department warns Residents about Street Drugs resembling Xanax

Fri, 02 Mar 2018 21:15:00 GMT

The Durham Region Health Department has issued the following news release.

Whitby, Ontario, March 1, 2018 – Durham Region Health Department has been notified that eight Durham Region youth have recently required treatment related to the use of an unknown substance that resembled Xanax. Xanax, also known as Alprazolam, is commonly prescribed by physicians to treat anxiety and panic disorders.

A report indicates that the eight youth under 18-years old experienced signs and symptoms of overdose including agitation, hypertension, tachycardia, psychosis and seizures. Residents are reminded that drugs not received from a pharmacy may contain other substances and increase the risk of adverse events or overdose.

Parents are urged to talk to their teens about the dangers of taking street drugs, which can also look like prescription drugs, as well as the dangers of taking prescription drugs not prescribed to them.

The Health Department is working closely with local schools and school boards to alert staff, students and families about the recent event. As part of its regular mandate, the Health Department continues to work with school communities on drug prevention strategies and provides information on treatment options for those seeking help.

Below are some actions you can take to reduce the availability of prescription drugs on the streets:

Keep medication out of sight in a locked cabinet.
Never share medication.
Take unused medication to your pharmacy for free and safe disposal.
Share this information with others.

If someone you know overdoses:

1. Call 911

2. Stay with the person until paramedics arrive and provide paramedics with a sample of the drug, if possible.

For more information about how to talk to your teens about drugs or to access health information, please visit durham.ca/health or connect with the Health Department at twitter.com/durhamhealth or facebook.com/durhamregionhealth.

Register Online for Grade 1 French Immersion

Tue, 12 Dec 2017 14:00:00 GMT

Online registration for Grade 1 French Immersion is now open. We welcome all students into our French Immersion program at schools across the Durham Catholic District School Board.

To ensure your child’s spot in the program for September 2018, you are invited
to enrol your child through the online registration process at https://osas.dcdsb.ca/Account/Home from December 11, 2017 to January 19, 2018. Students must be entering Grade 1 in September 2018 to register.

For more information, visit http://www.dcdsb.ca/en/programs-services/French-Immersion.aspx