MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION
Camille Williams-Taylor
Three years ago we undertook the ambitious work of developing a strategic plan that would be responsive to the learning needs of our students, improving the engagement of our employees and growing a reciprocal relationship with our communities. Our plans to advance the culture of innovation, care and social responsibility in the OCDSB have provided us with a focus for our work and decisions together as we move through unexpected local, provincial and global realities.
A commitment to a culture of innovation enabled us to consider flexible ways to learn and work as we incorporated digital opportunities into our newly emerging reality. Through innovative thinking we reconsidered how to focus on improving our approach to early reading and to open robust pathways to all adolescents by destreaming some compulsory courses in high school.
By maintaining a steady focus on equity, inclusion, Indigenous Rights and Human Rights, we have continued to nourish a culture of care. While we have developed our practices and structures to remedy barriers faced by some student groups in the interest of improving performance outcomes, we recognize that we must continue to learn about and remedy the barriers that impact wellbeing, belonging and psychological safety. The implementation of the OCDSB Cares bully reporting tool, expansion of the Employee Resource Groups and the development and integration of the Family and Community Engagement strategy are tangible tools, structures and systems that we have undertaken to strengthen our culture of Care.
Exemplifying social responsibility has never been more important with and for our community. Building on Board and Ministry resources, we have grown our capacity to maximize student experiences by improving our facilities, opening new spaces and enhancing the physical environments for work and learning. The COVID experience has brought the issue of air quality into sharp focus. In addition to installing mobile ventilation systems with the support of Ministry of Education resourcing, we also channeled resources of improving mechanical ventilation systems across the district to ensure that improvement to air filtration and air quality is realized in every school.
The key to the enduring impact of the strategic actions that we have undertaken, is securing the sustainability of directions and actions that we have taken to realize the goals of this plan. In partnership with the Board of trustees, and with the input of, and feedback from students, staff and families, we have committed to reviewing, renewing or developing the policies and pressures that will capture the spirit and direction of this work to ensure continuity. The establishment of the Human Rights Policy, renewal of the Safe Schools Policy and the launch of a modernized OCDSB dress code, are some examples of this work achieved in this school year.
As an Ottawa community, we have shared the challenges of the pandemic, the anxiety of the downtown occupation, the impact of the derecho climate event and the exuberance of the Capital Pride Parade. We have learned that our success as a community is built on everyone’s investment. The success of our work in the OCDSB, is a result of your trust, your feedback, your contribution and your time. I hope that in this report, you will see the evidence of our collective work in practice, all in the interest of enabling the best possible experiences and outcomes for all of our students.
MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
Lynn Scott
The current Board has now been in office together for almost a full term, and it’s time to take stock of what we have accomplished as a team and assess where we are with the implementation of the strategic plan we approved in June 2019.
During the 2021-2022 school year, board members maintained a strong focus on cultural change in its many aspects. The new Human Rights policy approved in January 2022 set a foundation for all future policy work to be viewed and reviewed through the lens of Human Rights, Indigenous Rights, and equity, whether in the sphere of a culture of care, innovation or social responsibility. The new suite of Safe Schools policies approved in May 2022 reinforced the Board’s expectations for all members of the OCDSB community – students, staff, board members, community members interacting with our schools – to act in ways that respect the dignity and inherent worth of others.
While in the past it has been difficult to assess the effectiveness of OCDSB policies because of a lack of data, the policies approved in 2021-2022 have also included expectations for data collection mechanisms so that the Board and the public will be able to monitor their implementation. In addition, the Board has begun a new approach to policy development and review that will be further developed and implemented in 2022-2023.
During much of the year, COVID-19 precautions continued to affect the school experience of students and staff alike, and board and committee meetings continued to be held virtually. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, there have also been some lasting benefits. Investments in technology have continued, and have improved equity of access to technology for many of our students. Investments in school ventilation systems will also provide lasting improvements to air quality in our classrooms. As the Board prepares for a return to in-person meetings, renovations to meeting spaces will continue to allow for virtual participation by members of the public who wish to address the Board on important issues.
Board members continued to extend their understanding of Human Rights and equity issues through sessions on Indigenous Learning. We also undertook a review of the Trustee Electoral Zones in preparation for the 2022 municipal elections, and modified several zones with a view to establishing more equitable representation across the district. The Board’s fiduciary duties were not neglected, including the approval of a balanced 2022-2023 budget that included continuing investments in technology for student learning, mental health supports, and staff to support equity, human rights and inclusion.
The Board has begun to see cultural shifts occurring across the District that have improved our ability to keep student learning and wellbeing at the forefront of our responses to unforeseen events, not only the continuing public health challenges, but also the impacts of the convoy occupation of downtown Ottawa last winter and the derecho that ravaged many parts of Ottawa last May. I am optimistic that the Board’s policy and budget decisions of 2021-2022 have advanced our strategic plan and will serve our students better as the OCDSB moves forward.
ABOUT US
Located on the unceded and unsurrendered land of the Algonquin people, the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) is an English public school board, which serves approximately 75,000 students in the City of Ottawa. As the largest school board in eastern Ontario, we are able to provide students with a wide variety of learning opportunities in our elementary and secondary schools and continuing education programs.
Everyone is welcome at the OCDSB. We are proud to support families of various faiths/creeds and students who represent more than 300 ethnic/cultural backgrounds. We believe every student has the right to learn, feel safe and welcome no matter their ancestry, background, ability, race, religion/creed, gender, or who they love.
Elementary
Supports for families
- 66 Licensed Extended Day programs supporting over 3,000 children in 2021-2022. (As of October 2022, we are supporting over 4,000 children and expect to reach well over 4,500 children by the end of the year 2023).
- 2 Licensed Early Learning Centres (Infant, Toddler and Preschool) supporting close to 100 children. (By the end of 2023, we expect to open a third location and will be supporting 39 children).
- 8 EarlyON Child and Family Centres supporting caregivers, child care providers and children, offering programs from birth to age 6.
- 5 Early Learning Centers to support adult learners in English as a Second Language (ESL), Language Instruction to Newcomers to Canada (LINC), and Literacy and Basic Skills (LBS) programs with on-site childcare.
- Child Care agreements with Third Party Operators in over 37 OCDSB Elementary Schools.
Secondary
OCDSB Pathways
The OCDSB offers a diverse selection of courses and learning opportunities for students to choose from. These courses and opportunities support students in reaching their goals, motivate them to pursue more education, and help them identify and work towards a career pathway.
Each course option and learning opportunity can be seen as a first choice option if it meets the student’s interests and needs, helps them see opportunities available to them, and supports achievement of their goals.
2021-2022 highlights of some of these courses and learning opportunities include:
- Over 3,170 credits earned through part-time, full-time, paid, and virtual Cooperative Education
- Over 290,186 hours logged working with community partners
- 30 students enrolled as pre-apprentices or apprentices
- Over 20 students enrolled in Level 1 schooling blocks across multiple trades
- 4,000 students engaged in experiential learning opportunities
- 650 students researched the lives of Black Soldiers in WWI as part of Project True North
- 131 students earned a credit at Algonquin College while working on their high school diploma
- 45 students graduated through the School Within a College (SWAC) program, earning consecutive OCDSB and Algonquin College credits
Continuing Education
Programs include Adult Cooperative Education; International Languages; Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) & Care for Newcomer Children; Non-credit English as a Second Language (ESL); Literacy and Basic Skills (LBS) including Academic Upgrading, Workplace Training, and Adaptive Learning; and Night School and Summer School including subject, ESL and equity-based credit courses.
2021-2022 highlights include
- 4,670 secondary Summer School students enrolled
- 606 elementary (grades 6-8) Summer School students enrolled
- 1,264 students participated in Night School
- 104 students participated in the Equity-Based programs (Black Youth and Rainbow Youth)
- 344 students participated in the Adult Secondary Credit Program
- 1,351 students participated in the Literacy and Numeracy Program during the school year
- 184 students participated in the Literacy and Numeracy Summer Program
- 7,221 students attended the International and Indigenous Languages Program (during the school year, summer program, and summer camp)
- 1,022 students registered in the International Languages secondary credit program
- 1,731 adult learners participated in the Language Instruction Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program offered online and at four OCDSB locations. Onsite childcare was provided for infants, toddlers and preschoolers in the Care for Newcomer Childcare (CNC) program.
- 1,982 adult learners participated in the daytime and/or evening non-credit English as a Second Language (ESL) program offered online and at five OCDSB locations. Childcare was provided for infants, toddlers and preschoolers in the Ontario Works informal onsite program.
- 305 adult learners participated in the Academic Upgrading and Workplace Training and Adaptive Learning Program as part of Literacy and Basic Skills (LBS). Onsite childcare was provided for infants, toddlers and preschoolers.
Strategic Plan Update
The overarching goal of the OCDSB's 2019-2023 strategic plan is to educate for success: inspire learning, develop well-being and build social responsibility. This work is built on changing practice and culture. We want to build a…
- Culture of Innovation
- Culture of Caring; and
- Culture of Social Responsibility.
The current strategic plan has proven to be responsive in unexpected and unprecedented times. The COVID-19 pandemic impacted the implementation of the strategic plan. This has led us to improve our capacity for change, rethink 'how', navigate uncertain terrain, and build resilience.
The advantage of a plan built on culture is the agility to be responsive in unpredictable times. In the course of this plan, global and local events have challenged our progress; led us to refocus; and fueled us forward beyond our expectations. At the time the plan was introduced, we did not anticipate the impact of the pandemic, the discovery of unmarked graves at residential school sites, the growth in understanding of human rights arising out of international and national events, conflicts and protests and their impact on our community, environmental change, and the release of educational studies, directions and reviews such as the Right to Read report. These have shaped our actions and reactions, informed our practice, and affected our progress. Fortunately, the culture statements in our strategic plan provided a framework to guide our thinking.
Looking ahead
We will continue our work to build a Culture of Innovation, Culture of Caring, and Culture of Social Responsibility, while we plan ahead for the next strategic plan. Building on our experience implementing the 2019-2023 strategic plan, the goal for the 2023-2027 strategic plan is to apply our learning, build on what we've learned, and modernize our practice. We will embrace an approach which involves listening, leveraging what we hear, and leading with care and purpose.
Read our full strategic plan update in our report: Capturing Outcomes: How do we know we are making a difference?
Indigenous, Equity and Human Rights Roadmap - Update 2022
Purpose of the Indigenous, Equity and Human Rights Roadmap
The OCDSB’s 2020-2023 Indigenous, Equity Human Rights and Equity Roadmap outlines a pathway to fulfill the District’s commitment to identify and address systemic barriers that affect students, staff and families’ well-being and success. These barriers are evidenced by the disparities and disproportionalities in access, opportunity and outcomes for groups of staff, students and families who experience individual and/or intersecting inequities. As a result, this pathway requires intentional moves to transform the creation or interpretation of oppressive and discriminatory policies, procedures, practices and behaviors that cause hurt, harm and trauma to students, staff and families.
What shifts/changes are taking place in schools and departments?
Over the last two years, schools and departments started or accelerated culturally relevant and responsive learning and strategies in one or more of the following six focus areas identified by students, staff, family representatives and community partners:
- Securing Accountability
- Importance of Identity
- Building Staff Awareness and Capacity
- Increasing Representation
- Programming and Supports for Students
- Engagement and Connectedness
As COVID-19 revealed more and more individual and intersecting inequities that affected students, staff and families, schools and departments were better able to begin or expand their capacity to shift and transform their learning and workplace cultures to be more equitable and inclusive to serve the full diversity of students, staff and families in the OCDSB community. This enabled the OCDSB to respond responsively and completed many of the key priority items identified in the Roadmap’s six focus areas.
Please visit our website for a summary of the key indicators for each focus area.
Ongoing Response to COVID-19
While the 2021-2022 saw the gradual lifting of restrictions, COVID-19 continued in the background through the school year, which escalated in the winter with the introduction of the highly-contagious Omricon variant. Unlike previous years, schools only shifted to remote learning for a short period of time in early January.
Vaccinations
he school year began with the Board of Trustees mandating that all employees be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. This decision was in addition to the provincial direction to establish a mandatory vaccine disclosure policy. The overwhelming majority of staff complied with the direction, with only a tiny percentage of staff either receiving medical exemptions or choosing not to get vaccinated.
The OCDSB supported Ottawa Public Health in sharing information about vaccination and also provided access to schools for vaccination clinics for students, staff and community members. In addition, the school year also saw the introduction of vaccines for students as young as five years old, which meant that more students than previous years were able to receive their shot.
Ventilation and air quality improvements
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, millions of dollars have been invested in improvements to ventilation and air quality across the OCDSB. Actions taken for the 2021-2022 School year included:
- An additional 1260 HEPA filtration units deployed for the start of the September 2021 school year (these were in addition to more than 1100 previously in place).
- Depending on system type, all schools were provided with upgraded filtration systems either by augmenting existing filters to MERV-13 type or by introducing permanent UV filtration.
- Additional CO2 monitors installed across the District and by late fall 2021, all schools were equipped with central CO2 monitoring capabilities.
- In addition, Facilities staff continued to complete and implement various ventilation, filtration and COVID-19 related projects across the District. These projects include HVAC equipment replacements and new HVAC system installations.
- To better inform families about these improvements, the OCDSB released school specific reports on ventilation upgrades.
Additional COVID measures
- Masks: Schools maintained mandatory mask measures through most of the school year. This was extended by the Board of Trustees from April-May 2022 after the provincial government lifted mask orders in place.
- Rapid test kits: Free rapid test kits were available to students and staff through schools, in addition to community locations.
- Absence reporting: Schools were required to submit daily absence reports to a provincial database regarding how many students and staff were physically present in a school on a given day. Schools reporting higher than 30% were required to notify Ottawa Public Health.
Human Rights
In January 2022, the Board of Trustees approved a new OCDSB human rights policy. This policy creates a framework to ensure the primacy of human rights within the OCDSB and puts in place an arm’s-length human rights complaints process where the OCDSB community members can have their concerns addressed. It also helps ensure the OCDSB’s compliance with its human rights legal obligations under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, the Ontario Human Rights Code, the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, the Anti-Racism Act and the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
Safe Schools
In April 2022, the OCDSB Board of Trustees approved updated policies focused on Safe Schools. The process to update these policies began in 2019 and included consultations with students, families, staff and community members on a variety of issues. These consultations and the resulting policies were also informed by consultations into police involvement in schools and human rights, as well as the Indigenous, Equity and Human Rights Roadmap.
Through this process, the previous Safe Schools policy was split into separate policies and there were also major revisions to the OCDSB School District Code of Conduct . The new updated policies are as follows:
Objective: To protect the physical safety of students, staff, and volunteers in schools in response to emergencies and tragic events while fulfilling both the education and law enforcement systems requirements.
Objective: To create a caring and safe learning environment while promoting positive behaviour that empowers all students to reach their full potential through bias-aware prevention and intervention strategies.
Objective: To set out the expected standards of behaviour for all people in the OCDSB Community in support of positive and respectful learning and working environments.
Student Dress Code
As part of the update to the Code of Conduct, we also revised the student dress code. This revision was based on the premise that all students should have the right to express themselves through their dress without fear of body shaming, bias, or discrimination. While a student’s style is their choice, we want to keep school a place where everyone can feel comfortable.
Ontario Government Commits to New Funding for Findlay Creek School
The Ontario government announced that it will be committing over $19.2 million to fund the construction of a new OCDSB elementary school with child care in Ottawa’s Findlay Creek community. The new school will be located at 4501 Kelly Farm Drive, at the southeast intersection of Kelly Farm Drive and Miikana Road. The school will serve 674 students from Kindergarten to Grade 8, and the site will also include a child care component with 39 spaces for toddler and preschool-aged children.
Elmdale Public School Re-opens Following Renovations
After a period of renovations and construction of a new addition, students returned to Elmdale Public School at the start of the 2021-2022 school year. In October 2021, school staff hosted a virtual ceremony for students, families, and community members to celebrate and shared a video tour of the school.
Celebrating the Construction of Stittsville Secondary School
In November 2021, the OCDSB hosted an event to mark the construction of the new Stittsville Secondary School. Attendees including MPP Goldie Ghamari, Ottawa Councillor Glen Gower, parents, local school council chairs, and members of the media joined the event. The Government of Ontario through the Ministry of Education announced the approval of the school in 2018, with a project budget of $48 million. The school will allow for 1,353 classroom spaces for students in grades 7 to 12 and is currently scheduled to open in September 2023.
2021-2022 Speaker Series Shares Leading Ideas in Education
The OCDSB offers several speaker series with free information sessions to provide parents, students and educators with access to leading ideas in education that will allow us to work collaboratively to better support students. During the 2021-2022 school year, the OCDSB Virtual Speaker Series presented:
- “Technology and Youth: What Parents Need to Know” with Rideauwood Addiction and Family Services
- “Recognizing and Responding to Stress and Anxiety” with Dr. Kristin Schaub and Jeremy Doucette
- “We Want to Do More Than Survive: Abolitionist Teaching and the Pursuit of Educational Freedom,” with Dr. Bettina Love, in celebration of Education Week and Mental Health Week
- “What to Say When Nothing Seems to Work: Communication through Connection” with Dr. Adele Lafrance
Hundreds of OCDSB parents and guardians attended each of these engaging sessions, and presentation materials and recordings were shared with those who were not able to attend.
Workshops and Information Sessions Support Students and Families
The OCDSB hosted a variety of virtual sessions and interactive workshops that provided information about OCDSB programs; language and literacy skills; career opportunities; transitions to kindergarten, high school, or life after graduation; and information to support parents/guardians. Events included:
- International Baccalaureate Programme Virtual Open House (November 2021)
- Canada Revenue Agency Webinar series (January-March 2022)
- Grade 8-9 Transition Information Session (February 2022)
- Technology and Trades: A Pathway for all Students (February 2022)
- Career Development Workshop series (February-April 2022)
- Speech and Language Expectations for Kindergarten Workshop (March 2022)
- Transition Planning Workshops (March 2022)
- Going to High School Information Night (April 2022)
- Autism Awareness Month Webinars (April 2022)
- Virtual Information Session: OCDSB International Learning Opportunities - International Certificate Program, Exchanges and Studying Abroad (April 2022)
- Women in Trades (April 2022)
- Job & Employment Skills Workshop (June 2022)
Thousands of Students Explore 502-Acre Outdoor Classroom
In 2021-2022, the OCDSB Bill Mason and MacSkimming Outdoor Education Centres welcomed students virtually and in-person to explore these unique and biodiverse outdoor classrooms. Highlights included:
- 5,353 students attended the Centres between March 28 and June 29, 2022.
- 225 classes visited the 502 acre classroom.
- 258 virtual field trips were held.
- 121 Indigenous students from 13 OCDSB elementary and secondary schools attended the Centres through a partnership with the OCDSB Indigenous Education Team.
- 562 students from 16 OCDSB schools received funding for their transportation costs to the OCDSB Outdoor Education Centres through the TD Friends of the Environment Foundation.
- 105 teacher candidates from the University of Ottawa visited the Centres to learn the importance of getting students outside to learn in nature.
- 170 trees were planted at the OCDSB Outdoor Education Centres by OCDSB Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) students.
- 220 people attended "Open Trails" Day at MacSkimming Outdoor Education Centre on May 14, 2022.
Exploring Post-Secondary Pathways at Launch 2021
In October 2021, grade 11 and 12 students had the opportunity to explore future pathways at the virtual Launch event, co-hosted with the Ottawa Catholic School Board. More than 12,700 participants (including more than 4,600 OCDSB students) joined the event, where they could attend workshops and connect with 71 post-secondary institutions, organizations, and employers. The event explored options that supported students’ chosen pathway goals, including joining the workforce, engaging in or continuing an apprenticeship, going to college, travelling, enrolling in a gap year program or going to university.
Students Join in Reflection and Remembrance
On November 8, 2021, the OCDSB recognized Indigenous Veterans Day, an opportunity to learn about and commemorate the stories and contributions of Indigenous veterans. On November 11, students and staff took time to reflect, remember, and call for a more peaceful world by joining a virtual Remembrance Day ceremony.
Engaging in Conversations on 2SLGBTQ+ Identities
The OCDSB hosted students, staff, and families for a Transgender Day of Remembrance webinar in November 2021, where participants could learn about transgender identity and support for trans and gender diverse students, and hear stories of resilience from transgender folks who are thriving.
In February 2022, students, staff, and families had the opportunity to participate in a virtual 2SLGBTQ+ Interfaith Panel Discussion, which provided a space to learn about gender, sexuality, and faith.
Virtual Information Nights Welcome Families to Kindergarten and High School
To support families in preparing for kindergarten and high school, schools across the District held 126 virtual information nights in the winter of 2022. At these livestreamed sessions, families met school principals and staff; learned about programs, activities, and student supports; and heard answers to their questions about making the transition to a new school.
OCDSB Launches New Podcast
The OCDSB launched “In Conversation with OCDSB,” a podcast where experts from the District answer common questions, share information about resources and supports, and invite families to learn more about learning. Episodes included a discussion for parents getting ready to send their child to Kindergarten, and a discussion of mental health, wellness, and how parents can support children and themselves through challenges.
Virtual Hangouts Provide Welcoming Spaces for Students
The OCDSB ran virtual clubs and hangouts for students with common interests and lived experiences to come together, share ideas, and make connections. These virtual spaces were often student-led and provided a culturally responsive and welcoming environment where students could safely and comfortably connect. These events included Virtual Sharing Circles for Indigenous students, Virtual Black Excellence clubs and hangouts, virtual hangouts for 2SLGBTQ+ students, hangouts for Jewish students during Jewish Heritage Month, and hangouts for Muslim students.
Celebrating Black History and Black Excellence
In February 2022, the OCDSB recognized Black History Month and Black Excellence Day. Schools across the District engaged in learning activities to celebrate Black culture and history, recognize the significant contributions of Black Canadians, and recognize how People of Black African descent continue to excel in all areas of life.
The OCDSB Black Excellence Discussion Series presented “The journey to achieving Black Excellence,” led by current and former OCDSB students. The event centered around the intrinsic versus extrinsic motivations when striving for and achieving excellence, and what Black excellence signifies for Black youth.
In June, the District held its fifth annual Black Youth Forum. Black students representing each OCDSB High School virtually shared their journey under the theme "We Celebrate Us, Today and Everyday." Approximately 800 students joined from their classes or individually to listen, learn, engage in conversation, and celebrate with Black students.
PRO Grant-Supported Virtual Parent Information Sessions
PRO Grant Parent Information Virtual Sessions were held in the spring of 2022 to foster parent engagement in children’s learning and well-being. School councils could choose from 14 session options on a wide range of topics, including storytelling, science, equity, online safety, and more. School councils had the option of working with other schools to host collaborative events, as well as the option to invite a speaker of their choice. The sessions engaged more than 2,500 parents and caregivers, and around 2,300 students, from 106 schools across the OCDSB. Funding for the events was provided from the Ministry of Education - Parents Reaching Out (PRO) funding, which is intended to support the identification of barriers to parent engagement in their school communities and find solutions to help more parents get involved in their children’s education.
Supporting Mental Health and Well-Being
The OCDSB’s Mental Health Services Teams served over 4,800 students and families in 2021-2022 by providing support to address social, emotional, and mental health issues affecting school performance. Services included crisis intervention, counselling support, system navigation, classroom consultation, attendance counselling, links to community resources, and family support. Further activities included the following:
- All employees took part in a district-wide PA Day focused on setting the conditions for learning for all students within the OCDSB. This training specifically focused on the intersection between racism, discrimination, mental health, and well-being.
- A Mental Health Week campaign with daily tip sheets, challenges, resources, and videos was launched on the theme "Empathy, before you weigh in, tune in." The OCDSB Youth Action Committee on Mental Health also created student-led videos to share mental health tips and strategies.
- Staff participated in a Third Path webinar series, which shared a relationship-based approach to student well-being and achievement and was attended by over 600 staff members.
- Approximately 1,800 high school students participated in a two-part classroom series which focused on understanding mental health, addressing stigma, and pathways to care.
- Approximately 600 students participated in group sessions to build stress-management skills.
- Education sessions were delivered to staff on topics such as building the conditions for learning for student success and well-being, emotion-focused school support, supporting students with stress and anxiety, and applied suicide intervention training.
- Over 1,000 students were seen for psycho-educational assessments supporting learning and well-being.
A new Employee Wellbeing Coordinator joined the OCDSB Employee Wellness team to create an employee well-being strategy as well as a prevention plan that would look towards supporting employees proactively with their physical and mental health concerns. The Coordinator launched the Employee Well-Being Tour, visiting 61 schools between February and June 2022, to provide face-to-face meetings and gather individual and collective well-being themes.
The Employee Wellbeing Coordinator continued to support staff through Compsych services (the District's Employee Assistance Program provider) and through the Lifespeak Platform, with a lens towards improving the employee experience. Well-being support services were also provided for urgent school needs, including face-to-face connection to support staff through grief, stress, and other distressing events.
The Employee Wellness team provided support to employees in a range of areas, including medical leaves (short- and long-term disability), workplace injuries, workplace accommodations, and attendance support.
SATE Programs Support Student Literacy and Kindergarten Transition
The OCDSB’s Student Achievement Through Equity (SATE) has been implemented in select schools to address equitable access, opportunities, learning, and outcomes. As part of this ongoing work, the OCDSB offered several events and programs for students and families in SATE Inquiry schools:
- In May 2022, a Literacy Evening was offered for families at 11 schools. Close to 200 participants registered for the virtual session, which was offered in 11 languages and provided families with tips and suggestions for how they can engage their children in literacy learning during the summer.
- The “Leap into Kindergarten” Summer Learning Program was offered at three schools, supporting 49 incoming Kindergarten students and 35 parents/caregivers. This in-person program aimed to foster lifelong literacy learning, promote wellbeing, and create a safe space for exploration and meaningful play.
Innovation Celebration Showcases Experiential Learning
The OCDSB held its first annual virtual Innovation Celebration events in May and June 2022, with webinars highlighting innovative experiential learning activities happening across the District. Elementary and secondary schools showcased a variety of projects, from student-created books to songwriting collaborations to city planning.
Preparing to Launch the OCDSB Menstrual Equity Initiative
While menstruation is a normal and healthy bodily function, for too many students, having a period can lead to feelings of shame and financial hardship. OCDSB students have said they can’t participate in school without access to period products. Students have had to leave school, miss class, or be late. The stigma, lack of access, and expense can ultimately affect a student’s comfort, health and well-being, not to mention their ability to learn.
Thanks to the advocacy of students, in January 2021, the OCDSB approved a student trustee-led motion to provide free menstrual products for students in schools across the OCDSB. In October of that same year, the Ontario government also announced that it would be providing free menstrual products for students across the province. The OCDSB Menstrual Equity Initiative expands upon the provincial plan by providing both thick and thin pads, in addition to offering pads for students starting in grade 4.
Throughout 2021-2022, project teams consulted with students and worked towards preparing to launch this important initiation for the fall of 2022.
Shingwàkons Public School Prepares to Welcome Students
In June 2022, the OCDSB announced that our new elementary school in the Fernbank community will be named Shingwàkons Public School.
The name was chosen following consultation through the spring of 2022 with students, parents, staff and members of the Fernbank community (located south of Highway 417 between Kanata and Stittsville). Additional input was provided from the Indigenous Education Advisory Committee along with an Algonquin Elder and Knowledge Keeper.
Located at 480 Cope Drive, Shingwàkons Public School will offer dual track English and Early French Immersion programming for approximately 600 students from kindergarten through to Grade 6. Construction on the new school began in September 2021 and it opens to students in January 2023. The students who will attend the school are drawn from communities presently served by John Young Elementary School, Stittsville Public School and Westwind Public School
Celebrating Diversity and Sharing 2SLGBTQ+ Voices
The students of the OCDSB 2021-2022 2SLGBTQ+ Voices: Pathways to Interdependence Program presented the 17th annual Rainbow Youth Forum in May 2022. This virtual evening was open to all 2SLGBTQ+ OCDSB students, OCDSB staff, community organizations, and parents/guardians supporting an attending student. More than 100 participants attended the forum, which featured events, workshops, and opportunities to connect.
In June, the OCDSB celebrated Pride Month by learning about the contributions, achievements, and histories of 2SLGBTQ+ individuals and communities. The OCDSB Pride flag was flown outside all schools and administrative buildings. In August, the OCDSB was invited to once again lead the City of Ottawa Capital Pride Parade by carrying the parade pride flag. Around 450 staff, students, families, and community members marched together to celebrate diversity and promote inclusivity.
Summer Learning Opportunities for Indigenous, Black, and 2SLGBTQ+ Youth
The OCDSB Continuing Education Department provided summer learning programs for Indigenous, Black, and 2SLGBTQ+ youth:
- 24 students attended the Indigenous Summer Learning Program, in partnership with the OCDSB Indigenous Education team. Indigenous Grade 8-12 students could earn an academic credit while learning from Indigenous teachers, Elders and Traditional Knowledge Holders.
- 27 students attended the Sankofa Summer Academy for Black Youth, in partnership with the Sankofa Centre of Excellence, which provided a reach ahead credit opportunity for African, Black and Caribbean OCDSB students.
- 11 students attended the 2SLGBTQ+ Voices: Building Bridges Summer program, which provided a reach ahead credit opportunity for 2SLGBTQ+ OCDSB students.
Communications Technology Students Support Innovative Space Mission
Grade 11 and 12 students at Osgoode Township High School took their skills to new heights, working with IBM Space and SpaceX to support the launch of the ENDURANCE CubeSat satellite mission in May 2022. They designed a virtual-reality simulation of the earth and the satellite, and used the 3D creation tool Unreal Engine to make a short film about the launch. (Zone 7)
Merivale Students Use Coding Skills to Create Award-Winning Music
Computer Science students at Merivale High School participated in the 2021 Canada Your Voice is Power competition, where they used the coding-based platform EarSketch to create songs that conveyed messages of social justice and entrepreneurship. Saumya T. earned the grand prize and a $5,000 grant; Edwin Z. was a runner up; and Ria P. received an honourable mention. (Zone 3)
OCDSB Students Win Big at Reach for the Top Competition
Quiz teams from Glebe Collegiate Institute and Lisgar Collegiate Institute took 1st and 2nd places in the National Finals of Reach for the Top in May 2022. Reach for the Top is a Canada-wide academic quiz competition for high school students, where teams of students represent their schools in a fast-paced challenge testing their knowledge and speed of recall. (Zones 9 and 10)
W. Erskine Johnston Students Excel in Math League Contest
Students at W. Erskine Johnston Public School participated in the Math League Contest, testing their skills while competing with students from across Canada and the U.S. The grade 6 students finished 1st in Canada, while the grade 4 and 5 students placed 2nd and 3rd in Canada, respectively. (Zone 2)
Collaborative Projects Build Elizabeth Wyn Wood School Community
Students at Elizabeth Wyn Wood Secondary Alternate Program found creative ways to connect with their school community. In partnership with Multicultural Arts for Schools and Communities (MASC), students worked with artist Marc Walter to create a large outdoor branch and twig sculpture. They learned traditional techniques and added personalized elements to inspire contemplation and connection. Students also took initiative to launch a podcast. They applied their skills in writing, music, and editing to produce episodes on a range of topics including Black history, ableism in sports, and embracing one’s path in life. (Zone 5)
Nature Nooks Provide Spaces for Sustainability and Wellbeing
In October 2021, “Nature Nooks” were introduced at 30 schools across the OCDSB. These spaces include a bench surrounded by native species of trees, where students can spend time outdoors, connect with peers, and improve their mental wellbeing. This sustainable initiative led to 75 new trees being planted at OCDSB schools! In the spring of 2022, 23 more schools selected a location for their Nature Nooks. Once installed, this will add approximately 60-70 native tree species to OCDSB school grounds. (Multiple Zones)
Experiential Learning Blossoms with School Gardens
OCDSB schools continued their partnership with Growing Up Organic (GUO), a garden-based educational program delivered by Canadian Organic Growers in Ottawa. Students planted seeds, tended to their school gardens, harvested fresh fruits and vegetables, and participated in virtual workshops. 10 new schools joined the initiative in 2021-2022, bringing the total to 60 schools across the District. (Multiple Zones)
Hawthorne Students Create Books to Share Their Stories
Hawthorne Public School collaborated on two books featuring stories from students, staff, and families. In partnership with Multicultural Arts for Schools and Communities (MASC) artist JustJamaal ThePoet, students wrote poems exploring their stories and identities for the "Humans of Hawthorne" book. Grade 6 students also published “The Pandemic Project” book documenting the experiences of their community during the pandemic, as an archive for future generations. These cross-disciplinary initiatives also included a mural, videos, website development, and other projects. (Zone 6)
Cairine Wilson Students Lead Purses of Hope Campaign
Cairine Wilson Secondary School ran The Purses of Hope Campaign, led by students Vanessa W. and Erin R. Working with fellow students and local partners, they reached out to their community to raise money for gift cards and donations of toiletry items, warm winter gear, and gently used purses. 150 purses packed with supplies were donated to support Indigenous women and newcomers from Afghanistan in the community, as well as the local organization Immigrant Women Services Ottawa. (Zone 8)
Supporting Philanthropy at West Carleton Secondary School
West Carleton Secondary School held its annual Youth and Philanthropy Initiative (YPI) event in support of local charities in June 2022. Grade 10 Civics students competed to advocate for a local charity of their choice to receive a $5,000 grant from YPI. The grant was awarded to the CrossRoads Children's Mental Health Centre for the second year in a row (presented by students Olivia A. in 2022 and Toby R. in 2021) – adding up to a total of $10,000 in support of children's mental health. (Zone 1)
Broadview Public School Collaborates on Personalized Land Acknowledgements
Broadview Public School engaged in learning to revise the school’s land acknowledgement practices and create opportunities for classes to write personalized land acknowledgements. With support from the OCDSB Indigenous Education Team, students took part in conversations, reading, visualizations and other activities to learn, reflect, and share their gratitude. (Zone 10)
Students at Urban Aboriginal Secondary Alternate Program Explore Gardening and Music
Urban Aboriginal Secondary Alternate Program introduced two innovative learning initiatives in 2021-2022. They launched a garden project, where students grew fresh herbs and vegetables from seeds in indoor BioSTEM growth chambers, then built garden boxes outside and transplanted the plants outdoors. The school also launched an after-school music club, where students connected over a shared interest in music, played a variety of instruments, and recorded songs. They learned about different musical styles, Indigenous musicians, and the role of music in Indigenous cultures. (Zone 10)
Ottawa Deaf Youth Conference Connects Participants Across the Province
In May 2021, students and staff at Woodroffe High School hosted the Ottawa Deaf Youth Conference for grade 7-12 students that are Deaf or hard of hearing. Over 130 participants joined virtually, watching presentations from Deaf and hard of hearing youth and professionals. They also had opportunities to participate in workshops and build connections with peers across the province. (Zone 4)
Students Organize Wheelchair Basketball Tournament
Students in the athletic leadership class at John McCrae Secondary School, with support from Earl of March Secondary students, organized the first ever National Capital High School Wheelchair Basketball Tournament in June 2022. Athletes from six OCDSB schools and one OCSB school competed in the event, which was presented in partnership with Abilities Centre Ottawa, Wheelchair Basketball Canada, Ottawa-Carleton Wheelchair Basketball Association, and Carleton University. (Multiple Zones)
Hockey 4 Youth Program Offers On-Ice Opportunities for Newcomer Girls
Ridgemont High School and Gloucester High School completed their second year of programming in partnership with the Hockey 4 Youth Foundation, which provides new Canadian youth with an opportunity to play ice hockey at no cost. The schools launched hockey clubs for girls who are newcomers, refugees, or learning in the English as a Second Language/English Language Development programs. Participants developed hockey skills and participated in off-ice learning activities. (Zones 6 and 12)
“Touch a Truck” Day Takes Clifford Bowey Students on a Learning Journey
Clifford Bowey Public School collaborated with community partners for Touch a Truck Day in June 2022. Local organizations, ranging from emergency response units to public transit, brought their vehicles to the school for a day of hands-on learning. Students had the opportunity to ride on a “train” in their schoolyard and see inside fire trucks, ambulances, garbage trucks, and more. Through these activities, they practiced communication skills, greeted new people in a safe setting, and reinforced their learning about being community helpers within the school. (Zone 11)
2021-2022 Board of Trustees
Lynn Scott - Zone 1 - Chair of the Board - West Carleton - March/Stittsville/Rideau- Goulbourn
Christine Boothby - Zone 2 - Kanata North/Kanata South
Donna Blackburn - Zone 3 - Barrhaven/Knoxdale-Merivale
Wendy Hough - Zone 4 - Bay
Rob Campbell - Zone 5 - College
Chris Ellis - Zone 6 - Rideau - Rockcliffe/Alta Vista
Jennifer Jennekens - Zone 7 - Gloucester-South Nepean/Osgoode
Keith Penny - Zone 8 - Vice-Chair of the Board - Orléans-Cumberland
Lyra Evans - Zone 9 - Rideau-Vanier/Capital
Justine Bell - Zone 10 - Somerset/Kitchissippi - Effective February 2020
Mark Fisher - Zone 11 - River/Gloucester-Southgate
Sandra Schwartz - Zone 12 - Innes/Beacon Hill-Cyrville
Student Trustees 2021-2022
Trustees 2022-2026
Alysha Aziz - Zone 2 - Kanata North/Kanata South
Amanda Presley - Zone 5 - College/Knoxdale-Merivale
Cathryne Milburn - Zone 12 - Orléans West-Innes/Beacon Hill-Cyrville
Donna Dickson - Zone 8 - Orléans East-Cumberland/Orléans South-Navan
Justine Bell - Zone 10 - Vice-Chair of the Board - Somerset
Lyra Evans - Zone 6 - Chair of the Board - Rideau-Vanier/Rideau-Rockcliffe
Matthew Lee - Zone 11 - River/Gloucester-Southgate
Nili Kaplan-Myrth - Zone 9 - Capital/Alta Vista
Suzanne Nash - Zone 4 - Bay/Kitchissippi
Student Trustees 2022-2023
Director’s Executive Council 2021-2022
Camille Williams Taylor - Director of Education and Secretary of the Board
Brett Reynolds - Associate Director of Education
Nancy Brady - Superintendent of Instruction
Mike Carson - Chief Financial Officer & Superintendent of Facilities
Prince Duah - Superintendent of Instruction
Mary Jane Farrish - Superintendent of Instruction
Michele Giroux - Executive Officer of Corporate Services
Reg Lavergne - Superintendent of Instruction
Shawn Lehman - Superintendent of Instruction
Susan MacDonald - Interim Superintendent of Instruction
Janice McCoy - Superintendent of Human Resources
Shannon Smith - Superintendent of Instruction
Peter Symmonds - Superintendent of Learning Support Services
Carolyn Tanner - Human Rights and Equity Advisor
Nadia Towaij - Superintendent of Program and Learning – K-12
Executive Council 2022-2023
Randy Gerrior - Associate Director of Operations
Paula Hall - Superintendent of People, Culture, and Leadership
Amy Hannah - Superintendent of Instruction
James Proulx - Executive Officer of Information Technology and Digital Transformation
Richard Sinclair - General Counsel
Celebrating Students, Staff, and Community Members
At the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board, we value and honour respect, encouragement, and inclusivity. The OCDSB takes great pride in acknowledging these efforts, and is proud to be able to celebrate the students, staff members, and community members who dedicate their time to this important work. Recognition awards are tributes to the work staff, parents, students and community members do every single day in support of their schools and communities. It is important to note as well that their contributions have been acknowledged by people who work closely with them, and recognize the work they do for others.
Student Recognition Award Recipients
Excellence In Equity Student Award Nominees
Excellence In Equity Student Award Recipient
Director’s Citation Award Recipients
Employee Recognition Award Recipients
Community Award Recipients
At the Education Foundation of Ottawa, we believe that it’s about what ALL kids deserve
We know that each year thousands of our students face enormous social, emotional, and financial challenges that are out of their control. The continued impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic continues to demonstrate just how important structures like the Education Foundation of Ottawa are to those who are in need. We have been innovative in our efforts and have been efficient and equitable in how we provide support. New and continued partnerships helped us provide families access to both internal and external resources in our community. All students deserve to experience their education in a way that promotes their sense of safety, security, and self-esteem. That’s why the Education Foundation of Ottawa is here to help.
Our 2021/22 school year in review
Thanks to donors and grants
We were able to provide over $260,000 of support for students in need of food, clothing, access to opportunities, and other essential needs! We work collaboratively with Principals, Vice-Principals, Social Workers, Learning Support Staff, and the Indigenous Education Learning Team.
Tools for Schools
Our continued and generous sponsors and individual donors ensure that students are ready to start their school year off on the right foot with backpacks full of school supplies. A massive thanks goes out to Rogers Communications staff and OCDSB Mail Services for delivering almost 2000 backpacks to schools! Thank you for ALWAYS caring so much!
Awards, Bursaries, and Scholarships
It's important to set students up for success when they're ready for their next chapter. That's why we have over 20 awards, bursaries, and scholarships that can be applied for in the Spring. In 2022, we provided over $55,000 to support students and special school projects. This year, we had a new and impactful opportunity to change the lives of four deserving students through the Frank Whitteker Memorial Scholarship, directed to students who have been affected by cancer. With their moving essay submissions, these students will receive financial support for the next four years of their post-secondary education!
Toonie Tuesday was a SUCCESS!
With a surge in need, our goal is to increase the results of our annual signature fundraiser, Toonie Tuesday, which takes place on the 3rd Tuesday in February. On this day, students, staff, and community members are asked to donate $2 (or more) to support our worthy efforts. This year we had the help of secondary students who embarked on a Fundraising Mentorship pilot project as a means to increase student engagement with an opportunity to give back to their OCDSB community. We aimed to raise $60,000 on this extra special "Twos-day", 02.22.2022 and we're happy to report that we surpassed our goal and raised over $68,000! Look out for Toonie Tuesday 2023!
You can help us sustain our mission
Many thanks to the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board for continuing to support us through school fundraising activities, school council donations, and the Staff Payroll Deduction Program which allows us to build our capacity and the sustainability we need to keep going.
We exist to reduce barriers for students in need because we believe that ALL students deserve access to the things they need to be successful. The time is NOW to continue your support and help transform the life of a student. To support the important and ongoing work of the Foundation
Thank you so much; we couldn’t do this work without you!
Forever thankful,
Clarissa Arthur
Executive Director
The Ottawa-Carleton Education Network
The Ottawa-Carleton Education Network (OCENET) is a recognized leader in international education for its innovative programs in promoting intercultural competency. OCENET is a non-profit organization which serves as the international education division of the OCDSB. For over 20 years the OCDSB has hosted more than 11,500 students and educators from all corners of the world in its elementary and secondary schools. OCENET is committed to providing cross-cultural opportunities for the international students who come to study in Ottawa and to developing intercultural competencies amongst OCDSB students and educators. Because of its many innovative and unique initiatives, OCENET is widely acknowledged as a leader in international education within Canada and around the world.
Highlights of the 2021–2022 School Year
- OCENET, despite the impacts of the Covid pandemic, placed 552 long term international students who attended at least one semester or more amongst OCDSB high school schools and elementary schools. These students came from 46 different countries. The “Top 5” nationalities represented by the number of international students by nationality included, in order, China, Italy, Vietnam, Germany, and Spain.
- OCENET’s international student enrollments were certainly affected by the impacts of the pandemic, but throughout 2021-2022 there were definite indications of keen interest in OCENET programs and applications for increased enrollments in coming years, as there appears to be a “pent-up” demand for international education experience, especially from European nations.
Looking beyond COVID-19
- The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated many changes in the ways OCENET welcomes international students to OCDSB schools and to the Ottawa area. In response, OCENET developed a new International Students Arrival Guide and prepared an online Assessment and Orientation program to assist students adjust to school life in Ottawa. These virtual tools will continue to be used for the immediate future.
- OCENET is well known for its innovative orientation program for new international students. Throughout the 2021-22 school year, prior to both the Semester 1 and the Semester 2 new international students attending OCDSB schools, a comprehensive 2-week online orientation program was provided to welcome them and inform them about such practicalities as how the student timetable works, how to travel to and from school, acclimatizing to a homestay placement, and things to do and places to see and enjoy from their learning experience in Ottawa. In the Fall of 2021, OCENET was pleased to be able to re-start some if its in-person excursions.
Teacher Training
OCENET developed a unique online training program for secondary teachers based on CLIL (Content and Language Integrated Learning) and delivered the program to educators from Madrid, Spain, throughout July 2021. Sixteen Spanish teachers completed the 100-hour program and worked in collaboration with online sharing sessions with OCDSB teachers. Also, teachers from Spain will be placed in OCDSB schools during the Fall 2022.
International Partnerships
- Over the past several years, OCENET has been instrumental in organizing several partnerships and exchanges with schools and education bureaus overseas with the aim of cultivating long-term, sustainable, and trusted educational partnerships.
- While in-person reciprocal student exchanges and educator visits could not take place throughout the pandemic, OCENET managed to develop and sustain cross-cultural relationships, including:
Osaka Gakugei Ottawa Program (OGOP): Following a series of online activities and virtual meetings through much of the pandemic between OCDSB students and students in Japan, in July and August 2022, nineteen students from Osaka, Japan, attended a six-week summer program focussed on developing English language skills and participating in many recreational and cultural activities available around the Ottawa area.
Chengdu, China: During the pandemic several OCDSB elementary schools collaborated with student learners from Chengdu, China. Throughout the 2021-2022 school year there were several virtual gatherings with a focus on better understanding each other's cultures and collaborating on considering solutions to global issues based on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. OCENET aims to continue with plans to develop and strengthen its partnership with teachers and educational administrators in Chengdu.
International Certificate Program (ICP)
The OCDSB International Certificate Program (ICP) is co-ordinated and administered through OCENET and continued to grow during the 2021-2022 academic year with an enrollment of almost 600 students. The ICP recognizes students who have demonstrated a commitment to being motivated, engaged and active global citizens both locally and internationally. In June, 107 students were awarded the OCDSB International Certificate at an in-person graduation ceremony. This is the largest number of graduates since the ICP’s inaugural year in 2013. To date, over 600 OCDSB students have received ICP certificates.
- Several teams of ICP students were participants in the inaugural Euro Challenge Competition in Canada held in Ottawa in May 2021. The Euro Challenge requires students to focus on a particular topic or issue, such as climate change, gender equity, population growth, etc., from the perspective of a specific EU country. Each team of four students delivers a 15-minute presentation to a panel of judges comprised of representatives from the diplomatic corps, academia, and banking. Local teams involved students from Grade 9 & 10 at Canterbury HS, Colonel By SS, Earl of March SS, Glebe CI, John McCrae SS, Merivale HS, Nepean HS and West Carleton SS.
Lynch-Getty Global Student Awards
- Each year OCENET presents awards to four OCDSB graduates, with two students being international students and two being Canadian residents. Each recipient is awarded $1,000 and a plaque recognizing their commitment to global citizenship.
- Congratulations to the 2021-2022 Lynch-Getty Global Student Award recipients:
- Anis Alkhushi – Glebe Collegiate Institute
- Dania Zanneri – Earl of March Secondary School
- Malous Fattahi Ghaz – Cairine Wilson Secondary School
- Anita Suthakaran – Cairine Wilson Secondary School
OCENET’s Newsletters happenings and Global Connections
- OCENET introduced a new informational newsletter entitled happenings. A new issue is distributed to OCENET international students every month. This two-page newsletter is specifically directed towards international students to let them know about local Ottawa area events and cultural activities of interest.
- Additional information OCENET initiatives can be found by viewing the OCENET newsletter, Global Connections, which is published twice each academic year. Current and archived editions can be found at www.ocenet.ca under “News”.
- Connect with OCENET on social media: @OCENETOttawa and @OCDSBISP
Looking Ahead
Thank you for taking the time to read about the lessons, accomplishments, and memorable moments we experienced together throughout the 2021-2022 school year. As we begin developing our new strategic plan that will guide the next four years within the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board, I hope you know how grateful we are to our staff, students, and families for your commitment towards building a culture of caring, innovation, and social responsibility.
I will close our Annual Report on a bit of a personal note, as the 2021-2022 school year has turned out to be the last full year I would spend as the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board’s Director of Education. In January of 2023 I will be leaving the OCDSB to start a new role with another Board.
It has been my pleasure and privilege to serve as your Director of Education. I will leave here so much richer for the knowledge and kindness the OCDSB’s staff, students, and families have shared with me. I look forward to closely following the future endeavors of this Board, and continuing to witness how profoundly its students and staff members are shaping their schools and communities for the better.
Sincerely,
