March 28, 2024 - OCDSB Takes Legal Action Against Social Media Giants, Easter Weekend, and more.
Earlier this week, I had the opportunity to visit Lady Evelyn Alternative School. My sincere thanks to the amazing Student Ambassadors, Alex and Caleb, who took the time to provide such a grand tour of the site. It was great to connect with students and staff as they engaged in their authentic learning tasks! I also had the pleasure, this week, of welcoming twenty educators from Munich, Germany at the Board Office. It is a privilege to have an international delegation visit our schools and central offices.
OCDSB Takes Legal Action Against Social Media Giants
We want to let you know that the OCDSB, along with some other school boards, is taking legal action against three social media companies (Meta, Snap, ByteDance). While these platforms are widely used, they are also intentionally designed for compulsive use. This has negative impacts on how we think, act, and learn. It's leading to issues with attention, learning, and mental health for many students. This puts a huge strain on students and on schools.
We want social media companies to step up and make their products safer for you. If you want to learn more about what's going on, check out our website.
This weekend, many in our community will observe Good Friday and Easter. A reminder that there is no school for elementary or secondary students on Friday, March 29th and Monday, April 1st. All OCDSB offices and schools will be closed. We wish a Happy Easter to those who are celebrating.
Share Your Feedback: Advisory Committee on Equity Policy
We are seeking feedback on the Advisory Committee on Equity (ACE) Policy. ACE’s main focus is to assist the Board of Trustees in fulfilling its commitment to provide an equitable and inclusive learning and working environment. The Committee is currently reviewing its policy to better serve its needs and support the District's strategic goals. Learn more and share your input by April 22.
Nominations Open: 2023-2024 Community Recognition Awards
Fairy Godmother of Ottawa is offering free, gently-used prom dresses, shoes and accessories at their two-day pop-up shop at the Confederation Education Centre (1645 Woodroffe Avenue) on these dates:
Monday, April 8th, 12:00 p.m. ‐ 8:00 p.m.
Tuesday, April 9th, 12:00 p.m. ‐ 7:00 p.m.
April 4: OCDSB Speaker Series - Autistically Thriving: An Evening with Judy Endow
Join us on Thursday, April 4th, 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., as author and autism consultant Judy Endow explores autistic strengths, thinking styles, information processing, and support. Register now. For more information, visit our website.
Upcoming Board and Advisory Committee Meetings
April 2nd, 7:00 p.m. - Committee of the Whole
April 3rd, 7:00 p.m. - Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC)
April 4th, 5:30 p.m. - Ad Hoc Policy Review Committee
Calendars and Planning for Important Dates