As we approach the winter break, I am happy to share a few updates from the Board of Trustees and to wish you all the very best for the approaching break and holiday season. 

Multi-Year Strategic Plan

In October, we launched our new Multi-Year Strategic Plan: Building Unity, Achieving Excellence. The plan sets out three priorities that will guide our direction and decision-making as a school board: student achievement, health and well-being, and human rights and inclusive education. It was developed by the Board of Trustees based on feedback received from the community, and we are grateful to everyone who shared their input. It was important to Trustees to ensure that this is a plan that serves the needs of our students and community. I invite you to learn more about this plan.

Family Engagement

Earlier in the fall, we hosted a series of school council forums, bringing together school council representatives for an evening of shared learning and discussion. It was a wonderful opportunity to recognize the important role school councils play in our system and to connect with families. Thank you to all of the family members who are supporting the work that we do in schools, including participating on school councils, volunteering in schools, attending events and meetings, sharing information and getting involved in any way to support and strengthen our schools and school communities. Your partnership matters and makes a difference both to your child and to our schools and school communities. Thank you for all that you do. 

Some families have asked for tips on encouraging their children to share more information about their school day. Here are some tips that I hope you find helpful. 

As part of our ongoing commitment to working in partnership with families to support your child’s education, we also recently introduced the Family Dashboard. The dashboard will offer you secure, one-stop access to information and applications related to your child’s education. If you have not yet signed up, you can find more information on the Board website. 

We hope you continue to see evidence of your child’s learning. This year, that includes welcoming school police presentations in partnership with York Regional Police on community safety topics, such as road, bike and pedestrian safety for elementary school students.  

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank and recognize the outstanding, dedicated and professional staff members throughout our system who work hard to provide your children with clean, safe, caring and inclusive learning environments. They provide students with learning supports, resources and opportunities that will help them develop skills, knowledge and experiences that will benefit them now and in the future. They collaborate with families and community partners, knowing that these partnerships make a difference to student achievement and well-being. To our staff members, thank you for all that you do. 

Happy Holiday Season and Winter Break

For many in our community, this time of year includes significant dates and celebrations. For those who are celebrating, I wish you a happy and joyous celebration. It is also a valuable time to connect with family and friends, as well as to rest and recharge. I wish you all a safe and enjoyable winter break and we look forward to welcoming you back in January. 

Carolyn Butterworth

Trustee, Georgina and East Gwillimbury