As we approach the end of the 2024-2025 school year, I want to take this opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments, hard work and commitment of students, staff and families. As I have visited schools, attended events and heard from families, I continue to be proud of the dedication to public education and student achievement and well-being I see. 

I want to wish my sincere congratulations to all of the graduates and proud families. This is an exciting time and I hope you enjoy this celebration of all of your hard work, perseverance and accomplishments. Whether you are moving on to secondary school, the workplace or post-secondary pathways, we wish you all the very best in this next exciting chapter of your journey. 

We had an opportunity in April to celebrate the achievements of 20 students at our annual Celebrating Student Success/Human Rights Ambassadors Awards event. It was a wonderful reminder of how much our students are capable of. While success and achievement looked different for each student, we saw a common theme of determination and care. Students demonstrated a real commitment to lifting up those around them. I see that everywhere in our system as I visit schools. It makes me so proud to see the ways our students are already shaping the future for the better. 

Each month in the Boardroom, we also had the opportunity to recognize the achievements of staff and students through the Applause awards. Congratulations to all of the award recipients. 

These awards capture a sampling of the incredible work happening around York Region District School Board and the successes we see students achieving. 

These successes we have seen this school year would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of staff across the system, and I want to thank you for all that you do each and every day. I also want to recognize the contributions that have been made by school councils, volunteers and families. Your work to enhance family engagement and strengthen public education has a noticeable difference in our schools and in the achievement and well-being of students. 

This is a very busy time of year and I wish all of the students the best as you work on projects and prepare for upcoming exams. I hope you also enjoy the celebrations that occur at this time of year, and as we celebrate another successful school year.