FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 1 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 2 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO 2014 DIRECTOR’S ANNUAL REPORT
THAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 3 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO
Message from the Chair Our Mission We build each student's tomorrow, every day. Trustees committed to Our Vision preparing students The Thames Valley learning community inspires innovation, embraces diversity, and celebrates achievements – for 21st Century learning a strong foundation for all students. It has been an honour and privilege to serve as Chair for the past year. On behalf of Trustees, I wish to offer a special thank Thames Valley District School Board you to the parents, staff, students and community members who give so freely of their time and efforts to build each student’s tomorrow, every day. Your contributions are truly valued and appreciated.
We must also thank the community for the trust they have Our Commitments placed in us as Trustees. Recent news coverage has fueled discussion about the relevance and importance of Trustees. As leaders in public education, Just as students have different learning styles that need to be we commit to: addressed to ensure success, we must also recognize that local school boards have different needs and priorities. Locally • Putting the needs of the elected Trustees ensure that boards are responsive to local needs. students first. Recently, Ontario Public School Board Association President Michael Barrett said: • Recognizing and encouraging “Trustees serve as advocates, as ombudsmen, as originators of ideas, as guideposts, leadership in all its forms and hold both the government and staff accountable.” I could not agree more.
• Ensuring safe, positive As TVDSB Trustees, we are committed to our locally developed vision statement that learning and working encourages us to inspire innovation, embrace diversity and celebrate achievements. environments During the last year we have taken steps toward that end. Our Board hosted an Innovation Forum to brainstorm new ways to improve student achievement and • Inspiring new ideas and programming. I look forward to seeing where the ideas generated take us in the future. promoting innovation As part of our commitment to being inclusive, fair and equitable, we developed a tool • Taking responsibility for for reviewing or drafting Board policies that ensures each document is in harmony with the students and resources our equity goals. entrusted to our care We recognize the importance of providing resources, technology and experiences that • Actively engaging our will prepare our students for 21st Century learning. Staff members held a number of students, staff, families and public forums to gather information about the technological needs of our students and communities the system. • Being inclusive, fair and These are just a few examples of how we are living our commitments. There is still equitable much work to be done and we look forward to the challenge. I am confident that together we will continue to do what’s best for our students and our community.
RUTH TISDALE Board Chair
COVER: In 2014, Thames Valley District School Board completed its implementation of Full Day Kindergarten (FDK). All elementary schools across the district now offer FDK for our youngest learners. On the cover, Teacher Greg Marshall is featured with two of his FDK students at Clara Brenton Public School in London. The inquiry-based learning model of FDK encourages the students to take the lead in their learning through a variety of individual and group activities – like computer games and lessons – with the guidance and 2 supervision of their Teacher and Early Childhood Educator.
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Director’s Message Student learning is our ultimate priority Thames Valley school communities are on a pathway of success
I am pleased to present the 2014 Director’s Annual Report which highlights many of our achievements, as we strive to fulfill the commitments we made to our school communities identified within our Board’s Strategic Plan. To ensure that we are making progress towards achieving our commitments, senior administration has developed an Annual Operating Plan 2014-15, which identifies specific goals, strategies, and outcomes. Through mid-year and end-of-year reflections, we will assess how well we have performed against our established goals. This cycle of continuous improvement is an important part of our culture.
Our relentless focus on student learning remains our ultimate priority in the decisions we have made in our schools and in the Board. As life-long learners, staff is immersed in their own learning to better support students in the classroom. This is essential in order for us to improve our results and ensure that we have strong, healthy and vibrant schools which are conducive for learning.
As a district, we have made significant gains in school safety and student well-being. Our recent student survey indicated that there has been an increase over time in the proportion of students who report that they have never been bullied. Additionally, the majority of students who were surveyed reported positive views of themselves, their interactions with others, as well as their overall mental well-being.
Significant gains have been made in capital planning and student accommodation. Since February 2006 through capital planning initiatives, approximately 65,500 students at 138 schools have/or will have realized program enhancements, upgraded accommodations, construction of purpose-built space for Full Day Kindergarten students, and general improvements to their educational facilities. These initiatives include:
• 9 new schools • 59 additions and/or renovations to existing facilities • 28 FDK additions / renovations • 10 conversion of schools • 41 school closures • 251 portable reductions
The impact of the capital planning initiatives has allowed the Board to invest savings to become more efficient, enhance and maximize program, and improve facilities. These initiatives have had a direct impact on students’ learning, staff work places, and school communities.
This fall, we launched our innovation strategy, starting with our secondary school communities. We know that as a nation and a school district that it is not good enough to remain static. The future of our students depends on our collective capacity to seek new ways to improve programs and services to meet their current and future needs. In the new year 2015, we will involve our elementary school communities, and board departments in a similar undertaking. We heard from those who participated in our secondary school innovation forum that they feel empowered to work within, and across, school teams to find innovative solutions to better engage students. Of course this involves an element of risk, but we are committed to supporting all staff as they learn from their successes and failures. This is what being a learner in today’s world really means.
In Thames Valley we are proud of the many outstanding accomplishments of our students and staff. Throughout this annual report you will see many examples of our achievements. We invite you to visit our website at www.tvdsb.ca, or follow us on Twitter or Facebook to learn more about our programs, services and accomplishments.
As our Thames Valley vision states: ‘The Thames Valley learning community inspires innovation, embraces diversity and celebrates achievements – a strong foundation for all students.’ We know that our school communities are on a pathway of success, and we look forward to our continued work with all partners to help build each student’s tomorrow, every day.
3 LAURA ELLIOTT Director of Education
www.Twitter.com/DirectorElliott www.tvdsb.ca/DirectorsBlog FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 5 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO
Innovation Forum Encouraging innovation, embracing change “There is no roadmap for innovation and that is the exciting part!” TVDSB staff Parents, students, teachers and community members gathered for two energized at days of groundbreaking meetings in November aimed at questioning Innovation Forum whether schools are preparing today’s students for tomorrow’s economy. Staff, students and community “Many students told us they are disinterested with the educational members gathered at the London Convention Centre on the second experience we’re providing,” said Education Director Laura Elliott. “At the day of the TVDSB Innovation same time, many students, who were disengaged in regular classrooms, Forum to discuss innovative are thriving in alternative programming.” ways to make the classroom experience more relevent to students. The following are some “I am challenging our school communities to be bold and innovative – to of the comments participants create, inspire and design programs and experiences which better meet posted on Twitter: the needs of our students.” • What a great day! A public Innovation Forum featured Harvard University expert-in-residence • So proud of my colleagues and our board for taking a risk Tony Wagner, author of Creating Innovators: The Making of Young People and opening up to a culture of Who Will Change the World. innovation • We need to build relationships Wagner, who appeared by videoconference, said teaching methods need with our students in order to to focus on problem-solving and teamwork rather than strictly on marks understand, and meet their needs and memorizing information. • If today’s students in school learn the same way their parents did 30 “In the past we have revered people with knowledge,” Wagner said. But years ago we would have a REAL that is no longer true because of the Internet. “What matters now is not problem. what you know but what you do with what you know.” • Building our timetable in open spaces. What an innovative idea to capture the needs of the group “This was a groundbreaking opportunity to bring people together and generate new and innovative ideas about how we can deliver education • TVDSB Innovators generating ideas! Love the enthusiasm! today and in the future,” said Paul McKenzie, Principal at H.B. Beal Secondary School and Chair of Thames Valley’s Innovation Committee. • When can we do this again? Great discussions around innovation today! The classroom teacher has the greatest impact on student achievement, said Director Laura Elliott, and TVDSB will continue to seek new and • Let’s do something real with these innovative ideas innovative ways to facilitate the development of students as creative www.tvdsb.ca/TVInnovates problem-solvers.
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Hundreds of teachers, students and community members gathered to share ideas about innovation and creating change in the classroom FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 7 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO
Emphasis Technology Designated high schools offer a full range of technology programming Emphasis Technology schools – a TVDSB innovation – allow students the choice of all technologies, from construction and communication technology to Emphasis hospitality and tourism, green industries, hair and Technology aesthetics and health care high schools All TVDSB high schools offer technology programs. Introductory offer more choice Technology schools offer integrated tech studies. Composite high schools offer traditional programs, such as Construction and Transportation Exploring Technology: Examines technology, while some also offered newer programs such as Hospitality several different technological areas. and Tourism. Communications Technology: After careful planning, the Board decided to designate six high schools as Explores the fields of video/audio production, graphics, animation. Emphasis Technology schools, where students can access the full range of technology programming. The designated schools are: Arthur Voaden Manufacturing: Manufacturing, machining, welding, sheet metal. SS, Clarke Road SS, College Avenue SS, Montcalm SS, Saunders SS, and Strathroy Dstrict Collegiate Institute. Transportation: Servicing and repair of vehicles, aircraft, and/ or watercraft as other areas of the This innovative approach expands access to technology programming transportation industry. to all students, said Superintendent Sheila Powell, who added that Construction: Carpentry, transportation is also provided for students who live more than 3.2 km electrical/network technology, from their designated Emphasis Technology school. heating and cooling, masonry, plumbing. To date, the newer, more unique programs – such as hospitality and Green Industries: Agribusiness, tourism and green industries – are having the greatest appeal among the horticulture, landscaping. nine program areas offered. Hair & Aesthetics: Hairstyling, makeup and skin care, nail TVDSB values the Emphasis Technology program as part of a technology. comprehensive educational experience. “It’s not just for students Hospitality & Tourism: Food preparation, event planning, who struggle with the academic program. Learning about trades and customer relations, tourism. technology enriches the learning experience for all students,” said Superintendent Don Macpherson. Health Care: Explores the fields of child care, dentistry, gerontology, medical technology, medicine, “Students will learn something about themselves as they learn new skills nursing, personal support. that they’ll be able to apply in future studies or life in general.”
To learn more about Emphasis Technology schools and programs with TVDSB see: www.tvdsb.ca/tech. 6 FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 8 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO
Newer programs such as Green Industries and Hospitality & Tourism are popular choices for students FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 9 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO
Career Development New program creates pathways to build each student’s tomorrow Creating Pathways to Success provides education, career and life planning for students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 Student honoured A new career development policy – Creating Pathways to Success – was unveiled for students and parents this year across Thames Valley and the during Black rest of the province. History Month Creating Pathways to Success involves the implementation of a The London Police Service, in comprehensive Kindergarten to Grade 12 education and career/life partnership with the Congress of Black Women, came together planning program. to celebrate Shanique Bartley, a Grade 12 student at Montcalm “The Pathways program engages students in planning for their future and Secondary School, who won the involves them in an ongoing process of self-reflection that emphasizes 2014 Lewis Coray Trailblazer Award for Youth. 21st century life and employment skills,” explains Superintendent Don Macpherson. Pathways is designed to help students achieve their personal Shanique is seen here with London Police Services Board goals and become competent, successful and contributing members of Chair Michael Deeb, who also society. is Principal of College Avenue Secondary School. “The program also provides support for students and staff to assist Named for Lewis Coray, who with a smooth transition from elementary to secondary school,” said was hired in 1951, the Trailblazer Macpherson. Award recognizes achievement in London’s young black community. The award comes with a summer “One of the most exciting aspects is the web-based tool, myBlueprint job placement on London’s Education Planner, which students from Grades 7 to 12 can use to PEACE (Police Ethnic And Cultural research education and career options, plan secondary school courses, Exchange) team, which seeks to bridge the gap between youth and create financial plans, build resumes and much more,” added Learning police, particularly in racially and Coordinator Stephanie Hambides. ethnically diverse communities. In her winning essay submission, The Pathways program helps students identify their personal interests, Bartley wrote: “We are all equal strengths, needs and aspirations and teaches them how to use this and should be treated as such. personal information to select programs and learning opportunities. So, instead of fighting against each other for superiority, why not embrace each and every single It also provides a range of learning opportunities, courses, and programs person for being who they are and that meet the interests, strengths, needs and aspirations of the students. see what a better place it would Finally, it ensures those opportunities include all post-secondary make this world.” destinations – apprenticeship training, college, community living, 8 university, and the workplace. FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 10 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO
‘High School Here I Come’ gives students a preview of secondary school FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 11 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO
Student Achievement Local school planning key to reaching achievement goals While the Board Improvement Plan for Student Achievement provides district goals, achievement gaps are addressed in school-level improvement plans
Thames Valley’s Board Improvement Plan for Student Achievement is an important document that guides TVDSB staff members in the development of improvement plans for their schools. Teachers apply The Plan’s four main goals are: 1) Learning and Achievement, creative equation 2) Engagement and Well Being, 3) Instructional Leadership, to math instruction 3) Culture for Learning. TVDSB teachers are encouraged Thames Valley’s distinctive approach to improving learning, achievement to take an innovative approach to enhance student achievement. and well-being is based on the core belief that the individual need(s) of each school determines the goals. For example, Sir Wilfrid Laurier Secondary School teacher George Bullas provides an integrated In 2014, declining Thames Valley EQAO math scores mirrored a physical education and math class disappointing province-wide trend. TVDSB’s Research and Assessment program. Department is completing an in-depth analysis of Board and school Based on the premise that results to determine next steps. Education Director Laura Elliott applauded physical activity stimulates the the provincial government for acknowledging the issue and engaging brain, students are more focused on math after a short physical Board and school staff to share strategies and approaches that have education activity. So, instead of demonstrated positive results. the usual 75-minute classroom period, Bullas and co-teacher Erica While TVDSB is committed to focusing more resources on math education, Flynn have students engaging in physical education activities the key to improving student achievement lies in a local, school-level for 35 minutes followed by math approach, said Michelle Deman, Superintendent of Student Achievement, instruction for 35 minutes. whose portfolio includes School Effectiveness. Bullas said he decided to try the new approach after reading about “But the specific work of goal-setting is done at the school level,” said how exercise stimulates brain Deman. “How we go about improving student achievement in math is best activity and wondered if it could have real-world application in a articulated at the school level, based on current and specific student data.” classroom setting. It is that kind of local-level analysis and planning that has resulted in steady improvements in reading and writing scores in recent years. “Ultimately, we want schools to focus on the areas where students need the most attention, and at some schools that will mean shifting more attention and resources to mathematics,” added Deman.
Board funds have already been reallocated to provide more professional learning opportunities for math teachers as they learn strategies to 10 improve their own math instruction. Deman added that Board researchers and educators also will be carefully examining EQAO results and other indicators to find clues to improving math scores in the future. FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 12 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO Board Improvement Plan for Student Achievement
Five-year EQAO Trends FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 13 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO
Alternative Education These UNDROPPABLE students provide educators with valuable ideas Thames Valley staff members listen and learn from students who are thriving outside of the traditional classroom experience
Programs Alternative Education students from across the Thames Valley district offer college shared their thoughts and ideas on education and learning at a special and university conference in April called UNDROPPABLE. experience “This was the first opportunity for our alternative education students to be heard with one voice,” said teacher Viki LaCombe, one of the Demand continues to grow for alternative education programs conference organizers. based in a post-secondary school setting. “We gained insights into how we can ensure that we fulfill our Board’s The School Within A College mission to build each student’s tomorrow, every day, and that each (SWAC) program allows students student is undroppable,” LaCombe added. to complete high school by attending their classes at Many students attending alternative programs across Thames Valley Fanshawe College. These students also enroll in college have experienced their share of challenges, such as unsettled home lives, courses. personal or family illness and learning challenges. One of the primary goals Each successfully completed of alternative education is to provide students with educational, emotional college credit also results in and social support to be successful in their learning. the awarding of a high school credit that can be used toward “We want all our students to know and feel that they are valued and completion of the Ontario secondary school diploma. important and at the same time establish high expectations for their Currently, TVDSB has a SWAC learning,” said Carla Trembley, Vice-Principal of Adult, Alternative and program at Fanshawe College in Continuing Education. One of TVDSB’s guiding principles is to provide London, St. Thomas, Woodstock as well as Lambton College. a safe and caring learning environment that offers a positive school The School Within A University experience. (SWAU) program allows students experiencing changes and “This conference provided students with a unique opportunity to highlight challenges in life to complete and discuss student issues and share ideas and strategies designed to their secondary school diploma by attending school on campus enhance learning and student success,” said Trembley. “We want all of our at Western University. These students to be undroppable.” students also enroll tuition-free in one first-year university course. See: www.tvdsb.ca/AAEducation
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Alternative Education gives students the opportunity to achieve outside of the traditional academic setting FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 15 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO
French Immersion Board undertakes major accommodation review of popular program Implementation of accommodation plan ensures access for students in Thames Valley
French Immersion is one of the fastest growing programs offered by the Thames Valley high Thames Valley District School Board. school honoured for Across the district, 11 elementary schools and five secondary schools EQAO achievement offer French Immersion in single-track or dual-track (schools that Sir Frederick Banting Secondary offer instruction in both English and French) formats. Students may School in London was one of 27 schools in the province to receive enter French Immersion in both Senior Kindergarten and Grade 1. In the 2014 Dr. Bette M. Stephenson addition, the Extended French Immersion program offers students entry in Recognition of Achievement from Grade 7. Ontario’s Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) for The continued popularity of the French Immersion program, combined its leadership in improving student achievement and for its use of EQAO with the implementation of Full Day Kindergarten for French Immersion results to improve student learning. classes scheduled for 2014-2015, resulted in the implementation of a The school was recognized for number of accommodation projects. demonstrating leadership and sincere effort to help every child In order to meet growth projections and prepare for the future, a complete succeed. All schools honoured with the award have adopted an review of French Immersion program space was carried out in 2014 based action plan based on their unique on the following factors: circumstances and are working • Putting student needs first so that French Immersion programming can toward improved student outcomes. continue to be offered as a program choice to all TVDSB students in a This program was established to sustainable manner recognize the work of schools and to pay tribute to Dr. Stephenson’s • Restructuring of attendance areas to harmonize enrolment with lifelong commitment and school capacity contribution to education and • Using Full Day Kindergarten funding to ensure that available resources public service. As Minister of both Education and Colleges and are maximized for students Universities from 1978 to 1985, and as an original member of EQAO’s Trustees received public input and carefully studied the issue before Board of Directors, Dr. Stephenson approving a plan to realign enrolment boundaries across the district while has made an enormous contribution to public education in the province. expanding and renovating schools and classrooms to accommodate students.
“The construction activity allows us to meet the tremendous demand for French Immersion programming and our Board’s commitment to meeting the educational needs of our students and our community,” said Director Laura Elliott. 14 The French Immersion Accommodation Plan ensures that TVDSB provides adequate space and ensures the long-term sustainability of the program for both students and staff. FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 16 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO
Louise Arbour attended the opening of one of TVDSB’s newest FI schools, which was named in her honour FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 17 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO
Parent Involvement Conference offered parents direction on the road to student success A successful Parent Learning Conference brought together parents, school board officals and community agencies from across the district Conference A two-day conference organized by the Thames Valley Parent Involvement Committee encouraged parents to be actively involved in their child’s explores child education. mental wellness The Fall Parent Learning Conference, called Roadmap to Success, was About 200 parents, educators and community partners presented on two separate evenings. A complimentary meal and child care gathered to share stories, offer were provided. advice and support at a special conference, Breaking Down “The goal of the conference was to engage parents to be partners in their Barriers: Mental Wellness. child or children’s successful education journey, by providing information “The conference helped parents and resources,” said Sharon Gowdey, Co-Chair of the Thames Valley be better prepared to assist and work with their children and Parent Involvement Committee. the school to improve student achievement and well-being,” The evening included a presentation by Education Director Laura Elliott said conference organizer about the importance of parent engagement. Melinda Curran, Vice Principal, Westmount Public School. Superintendent Michelle Deman discussed the role of parents in the Board Participants learned about mental Improvement Plan for Student Achievement and how each school creates wellness issues from two keynote speakers and attended breakout plans around the specific needs of their children. sessions led by such community partners as the Canadian Superintendent Don Macpherson and Learning Coordinator Stephanie Mental Health Association, the Hambides also discussed the Creating Pathways to Success program Middlesex-London Health Unit, as well as TVDSB staff members. and the MyBluePrint online tool. MyBluePrint helps students plan their education and make the most informed decisions about their future. Breakout sessions included topics such as Understanding Anxiety Disorders in Youth and Parent Involvement Committees are important advisory bodies that create Adults and Helping Children a link between parents and the Director of Education and Trustees. Where Manage Stress. school councils support local schools and the parent community, the The conference was supported by Parent Involvement Committee supports the Board on education issues a Parents Reaching Out grant. which impact all schools within the district.
A strong relationship between schools and communities has also been served by Home and School Associations. For many years, the area served by the Thames Valley District School Board has had a strong tradition of 16 Home and School Associations which work to connect schools, parents and community in matters related to the education and welfare of children. FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 18 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO
Hundreds of parents, educators and community partners exchanged views at a two-day TVPIC event. Below (L to R): Home and School President Sheena Davis, Education Director Laura Elliott, and TVPIC Co-chairs Sharon Gowdey and Dana Parsons FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 19 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO
Our Trustees see: www.tvdsb.ca/Trustees
Middlesex County Elementary Oxford County A.J. Baker Public School Rolph Street Public School Algonquin Public School Royal Roads Public School Annandale School South Ridge Public School Blenheim District Public School Southside Public School Central Public School Springbank Public School East Oxford Central Public School Tavistock Public School Eastdale Public School Thamesford Public School Emily Stowe Public School Winchester Street Public School Harrisfield Public School Zorra Highland Park Public School Hickson Central Public School Innerkip Central Public School Secondary College Avenue Secondary School Laurie Hawkins Public School Glendale High School Maple Lane Public School Huron Park Secondary School Northdale Public School Ingersoll District Collegiate Institute Oliver Stephens Public School Woodstock Collegiate Institute Bill McKinnon, Vice-Chair Graham Hart Rob Campbell Arlene Morell Plattsville & District Public School 519-452-2000 ext. 22401 519-452-2000 ext. 22402 Roch Carrier French Immersion 519-452-2000 ext. 22411 519-452-2000 ext. 22404 Public School [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
Elementary Adelaide-W.G. Macdonald Public School Caradoc North Public School Caradoc Public School Centennial Central Public School Colborne Street Public School Delaware Central Public School East Williams Memorial Public School WOODSTOCK Ekcoe Central Public School PARKHILL J.S. Buchanan French Immersion Public School Mary Wright Public School McGillivray Central Public School MIDDLESEX Mosa Central Public School INGERSOLL North Meadows Public School LONDON Northdale Central Public School DORCHESTER Oxbow Public School Parkhill-West Williams Public School Parkview Public School OXFORD River Heights Public School STRATHROY Valleyview Public School TILLSONBURG West Nissouri Public School Wilberforce Public School ST. THOMAS Secondary Glencoe District High School Lord Dorchester Secondary School AYLMER Medway High School North Middlesex District High School Strathroy District Collegiate Institute ELGIN
WEST LORNE
Student Trustees Elgin County Elementary Aldborough Public School Southwold Public School Davenport Public School Sparta Public School Dunwich-Dutton Public School Springfield Public School Elgin Court Public School Straffordville Public School Forest Park Public School Summers’ Corners Public School John Wise Public School West Elgin Senior Elementary June Rose Callwood Public School School Locke’s Public School McGregor Public School Secondary Mitchell Hepburn Public School Arthur Voaden Secondary School New Sarum Public School Central Elgin Collegiate Institute Pierre Elliott Trudeau French Immersion Public School East Elgin Secondary School Port Burwell Public School Parkside Collegiate Institute James Todd Chris Goodall Goodness Osih Eric Muellejans Port Stanley Public School West Elgin Secondary School 519-452-2000 ext. 78399 519-245-2680 ext. 314 South Dorchester Public School 519-452-2000 ext. 22407 519-452-2000 ext. 22403 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 20 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO
see: www.tvdsb.ca/Trustees
London Wards 7, 8, 9, 10 & 13 Elementary London Wards 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6 Aberdeen Public School West Oaks French Immersion Public School Arthur Ford Public School Westmount Public School Byron Northview Public School Wilfrid Jury Public School Byron Somerset Public School Byron Southwood Public School Secondary Clara Brenton Public School Central Secondary School Eagle Heights Public School H.B. Beal Secondary School Emily Carr Public School Oakridge Secondary School Jeanne Sauvé French Immersion Public School Saunders Secondary School John Dearness Public School Sir Frederick Banting Secondary School Lambeth Public School Lord Roberts French Immersion Public School Masonville Public School Graham Hart Jake Skinner Joyce Bennett Riverside Public School Peter Jaffe Matt Reid 519-452-2000 ext. 22404 519-452-2000 ext. 22409 519-452-2000 ext. 22400 Sir Isaac Brock Public School 519-452-2000 ext. 22406 519-452-2000 ext. 22410 W. Sherwood Fox Public School [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
Elementary Bishop Townshend Public School Bonaventure Meadows Public School Chippewa Public School Evelyn Harrison Public School F.D. Roosevelt Public School Hillcrest Public School Jack Chambers Public School John P. Robarts Public School Knollwood Park Public School Lord Elgin Public School Lord Nelson Public School Lorne Avenue Public School Louise Arbour French Immersion Public School Northbrae Public School Northridge Public School Orchard Park Public School Prince Charles Public School Princess Anne French Immersion Public School Ryerson Public School Sir John A. Macdonald Public School St. George’s Public School Stoney Creek Public School Stoneybrook Public School University Heights Public School
Secondary A.B. Lucas Secondary School Clarke Road Secondary School Montcalm Secondary School
London Wards 1, 11, 12 & 14 Elementary Victoria Public School First Nations Trustee Arthur Stringer Public School Westminster Central Public School Ashley Oaks Public School White Oaks Public School C.C. Carrothers Public School Wilton Grove Public School Cleardale Public School Woodland Heights Public School Ealing Public School Wortley Road Public School Fairmont Public School Glen Cairn Public School Secondary Kensal Park French Immersion Public School B. Davison Secondary School Lester B. Pearson School for the Arts London South Collegiate Institute Mountsfield Public School Sir Wilfrid Laurier Secondary School Nicholas Wilson Public School Westminster Secondary School Princess Elizabeth Public School Rick Hansen Public School Chris Goodall Sir Georges Etienne Cartier Public School Sheri Polhill Ruth Tisdale, Chair Tecumseh Public School Phil Schuyler 519-452-2000 ext. 22403 519-452-2000 ext. 22408 519-452-2000 ext. 22412 Trafalgar Public School 519-452-2000 ext. 22405 [email protected] Tweedsmuir Public School [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 21 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO
School Board Governance The Role of Trustees The Thames Valley District School Board is governed by a 13-member Board of Trustees. Twelve Trustees are elected during municipal elections to serve a term of four years and one Trustee is selected by the First Nations Communities to serve as the First Nations Trustee by Board appointment for four years. In addition, two secondary school students are elected annually to the Board by their fellow students to represent the interests of Thames Valley students and to bring the student perspective to the decision-making process. The student Trustees have a non- binding advisory vote at Board meetings.
It is important to note that Trustees as a collective board have the legislative authority to make decisions, and that no individual Trustee has Kindness club any authority under the Education Act. It is the responsibility of a Trustee warms to bring to the Board the concerns of parents, students and community community hearts members. However, once a decision is made the Trustees are legally bound to uphold the decisions of the Board. Trustees may not agree with The Eights of Hearts club at the decision but they must still uphold the implementation and wishes of Emily Carr Public School was created to help promote kindness the collective Board. in the school and in the greater community – and the students It is clear that Trustees carry a dual responsibility recognized in the have been busy. Education Act and underscored in the Governance Review report (2009): Teacher Julie Scarpino says the students have poured their hearts into many different acts “As a member of the Board, an individual Trustee is that bring smiles to others. “This expected to act within the Board’s by-laws and be club is made up of 17 of the most loyal to the Board’s decisions. However, as elected responsible and caring Grade 8 students who have been giving persons, Trustees are also expected to advocate for their time and energy.” the interests of their constituencies.” The club has organized events to help others, including a fundraiser Good Governance Report for a student participating in Ontario Public School Boards’ Association Jacob’s Legacy of Love, making cards for a family that experienced a death, spending an afternoon visiting with the seniors in the The Education Act states every board shall: McCormick Home and fundraising for needed supplies for the • Promote student achievement and well-being; Women’s Community House. • Promote a positive school climate that is inclusive and accepting “Our experience at the London of all pupils; Food bank was both enriching and • Promote the prevention of bullying; eye opening and we can’t wait to go back there again this year,” • Ensure effective stewardship of the Board’s resources; says Scarpino. • Deliver effective and appropriate education programs to its pupils.
If you have any questions or concerns or would like more information, please feel free to contact your local Trustee.
20 see: www.tvdsb.ca/Governance FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 22 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO Trustees Eric Muellejans (left) and Goodness Osih provide an important voice for students FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 23 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO
Community Engagement Thames Valley students supported by community Thousands of students in need have received backpacks filled with supplies when they start school in the Fall, thanks to the generosity of businesses and individuals across the community
More than 10,000 backpacks have been collected and distributed since Change starts in the Thames Valley Education Foundation’s Supplies for Students initiative Thames Valley began in 2001. Organizers distributed more than 3,000 backpacks this year. The Thames Valley District School Board donated $359,355 to United “Supplies and financial contributions came pouring in once again, not Way agencies of Elgin-St. Thomas, London-Middlesex and Oxford surprisingly, demonstrating the incredible generosity and kindness of our in February as part of the 2013 community,” said Volunteer Coordinator Chantal McLaughlin. campaign. “We set a higher goal this year “Thanks to the public, dedicated volunteers, and area businesses, we are with the hope that we could able to assist many families by providing the basic items kids need to start address the increasing needs the school year off right,” McLaughlin added. we see among our students and their families. I’m so proud of our colleagues and students for Parent, student and community volunteers were among those who helped coming together to not only reach collect and sort backpacks and supplies at various locations throughout our goal, but to set a record for Thames Valley. the amount raised,” said Associate Director Karen Dalton, a member of the United Way of London- Their efforts were greatly assisted by community and business partners Middlesex Board of Directors and such as the Kiwanis, TD Canada Trust Employees “Back in Class” TVDSB administrative liaison for campaign, Forest City Freedom 55 Financial Centre, London Life, Costco the campaign. North London, Staples, Southwestern Ontario Student Transportation The funds will be divided among Services, Westmount Shopping Centre, United Way Oxford and United the three United Way agencies based on contributions. Way Gen Next in partnership with RBC. TVDSB students and staff “Our goal is always to support our community and truly make a difference members have don ated more than $3 million to the United Way over on that first day of school for as many children and their families as we the last 10 years. can,” said TD Canada Trust Bank Analyst Lisa Dronyk. She added that over the past seven years, TD employees have generously donated more than 3,500 filled backpacks to London and area school children.
The Thames Valley Education Foundation administers more than 400 endowed student award and scholarship funds established by donors to assist students in continuing their education.
The Foundation also offers grants to schools through the Learning Enhancement Fund and the Caring Fund. These important funds make a 22 significant difference to the lives of students and schools that they help in the Thames Valley District School Board. FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 24 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO
Volunteers, students and staff packed and delivered more than 3,000 backpacks full of school supplies for students in need FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 25 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO
14th Annual Award of Distinction Awarding commitment to student achievement The 14th annual Award of Distinction ceremony recognized 21 recipients from across the district for their extraordinary work and outstanding commitment to public education. 2014 AWARD OF DISTINCTION RECIPIENTS
One recipient, Grant Hinchcliffe, a Marlene Beyer, School Support Susan Nugent, Learning Coordinator, volunteer at Clara Brenton Public Counsellor, Learning Support Services Special Education School in London, addressed Jeff Beynon and Kathy McNaughton Candace Parrack, Counselling & Support the audience at the ceremony. Teachers, Medway High School Worker, Learning Support Services Hinchcliffe said that he Pierce Casey, Crossing Guard, Michele Pedler, Student, Parkside identified one common character Evelyn Harrison Public School Collegiate Institute trait among the nominees and Dora Chams, Teacher Laura Pollard, Head of Guidance, Sir recipients: “They are Ashley Oaks Public School George Ross Secondary School committed to investing in other Susan Dale, Learning Coordinator Dr. Deb Reitzel-Jaffe, Psychologist, people’s lives.” Safe Schools Psychological Services Tracy Durnin, Custodian Questyn Rodriguez, Settlement Worker, The Award of Distinction was June Callwood Public School Northbrae Public School and A.B. Lucas established by Trustees in 2000 Secondary School Alexandra Harkins, Learning Support to recognize members of our Teacher, Ealing Public School Matthew Sereda, Teacher, Thames Valley school communities and Board Alternative Secondary School Grant Hinchliffe, Volunteer, Clara Brenton staff who model the Board’s Public School Darlene Snyders, Volunteer, Knollwood commitments and make a Park Public School Laurie Lewis, Retired Principal / significant difference in improving United Way Volunteer Cathy Wilson, Secretary, Central student learning. Public School Brendan May, Student, Parkside Collegiate Institute Rachel Wolfe, Volunteer, Eastdale see: www.tvdsb.ca/Awards Public School FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 26 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO
Dance performances by First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) students are among many events aimed at building cultural competency among students and staff FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 27 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO
Special Olympics Students discover new talents and abilities In the largest event of its kind in Southwestern Ontario, more than 900 athletes with developmental challenges and their peer coaches from 61 schools Paralympic events participated in the annual three-day event added to annual Track & Field meet Thames Valley students demonstrated the strength of the human spirit and the love of sport in the annual Special Olympics track and field meet. For the first time, TVDSB added four events for Paralympic athletes TVDSB’s Special Olympics is presented in partnership with Investing in to the annual Track and Field meet held this year. Nine competitors Children, Special Olympics Ontario and the support of corporate and from across the Board participated individual sponsors,. in the inaugural events. Each Paralympic athlete has “Through Special Olympics, our athletes discover new talents and abilities a physical disability, such as through events that demand physical and mental strengths,” Director of visual impairment, amputation or Education Laura Elliott told participants. Cerebral Palsy. Cleardale Public School Teacher The event – held at Western University’s TD Waterhouse Stadium – Bill Day initiated the events so that provided three fun-filled days of fellowship and athletic events for students these athletes could have the same competitive experience enjoyed by with developmental challenges. their classmates in the Track and Field meet. Events included the After an Olympic-style march and opening ceremonies ,each day is 80m sprint, long jump, ball throw filled with track and field events and special events for elementary and and bean bag throw. secondary school students, with the help of more than 300 volunteers. “We would like these events to grow and become a regular part Athletes and their coaches participated in several events including of our track and field program in the Valley,” said Day, who invites 80-metre sprint, 4x80 relay, long jump, softball throw and standing jump, schools and parents. plus special events, including skittles and bocce ball. see: www.flickr.com/photos/tvdsb. “It’s a humbling experience,” said volunteer co-ordinator Brent Bamford, who retired as principal at Emily Carr Public School in 1998. “Compared to some of the struggles these little guys go through on a daily basis . . . it allows us to appreciate what we have.”
26 ATHLETE’S OATH Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.” FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 28 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO
The annual Special Olympics provides three days of fellowship and sport for hundreds of children FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 29 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO
Equity and Inclusion Gay Straight Alliance helps build community in a diverse society Students and community members learn from each other and create plans to achieve a more inclusive and accepting society Best Buddies Community and human rights leaders gathered with 150 student leaders from across Thames Valley to Find Your Voice at the eighth annual Gay helps break down Straight Alliance (GSA) conference in the spring. barriers The goal of the conference was to empower students to create an action Olivia Armstrong and Jackson plan for positive change at their school that will celebrated diversity and Smith were excited when they were crown Queen and King of helped members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) the prom at Oakridge Secondary community find their voice. School. Smith, who has a developmental challenge, said it “The conference builds the students’ confidence and sense of community was the first time he realized how much he was accepted by his by bringing GSAs from many schools together to share their experiences, classmates. hear from engaging speakers and discuss concerns and ideas with Armstrong and Smith met through community representatives,” said Susan Dale, who was in the role of Safe the school’s Best Buddies Club, an Schools Learning Coordinator at the time of the conference. international program that matches students who face intellectual and The keynote performance was presented by Molly Thomason, an award- developmental challenges with a “buddy” in their school. winning singer and songwriter. Thomason also was named one of Canada’s Top 20 Under 20 by Youth In Motion for her work as a human K.T. Irwin, co-president of the Oakridge club, said she’s noticed a rights activist. growing acceptance of those with developmental challenges during Following Thomason’s performance, participating students and teachers her high school career. heard from a representative of Egale Canada Human Rights Trust – The Best Buddies Canada mission Canada’s only national charity promoting LGBT human rights through is to create one-to-one friendships and leadership development research, education and community engagement. for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Holly Painter, a TVDSB Safe Schools speaker, spoken word artist and Thirteen TVDSB secondary and certified teacher, also shared a poem to inspire the students. Painter is elementary schools participate in the program. a three-time Grand Slam champion and director of the London Poetry Slam who has performed at a TEDx conference and dozens of school and community events across Ontario.
An area initiative unique to TVDSB, the GSA conference provided students with the opportunity to connect with other students and dialogue with community agencies. 28 FEBRUARY 17, 2015 The annualPage Gay 30 ofStraight 33 Alliance11. conference C.19 - CW INFO helps empower students to make positive change in their schools and communities FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 31 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO
International Education TVDSB going global, putting Thames Valley on the world map “International education is critical to Canada’s success. In a highly competitive, knowledge-based global economy, ideas and innovation go hand in hand with job creation and economic growth. In short, international education is at the very heart of our current and future prosperity.” Thames Valley Canada’s International Education Strategy (2014), Government of Canada International educational experiences provide opportunities to gain new perspectives, offers international build awareness, learn or practice a new language, understand different cultures, and students many provide a base for relationships and skills needed in a growing global economy. With Canada as one of the top study destinations in the world many school advantages boards across the nation have been actively recruiting and promoting international Recently hired International opportunities for decades. On a more local scale, in London, Western University and its affiliates, King’s, Brescia, and Huron colleges along with Fanshawe College and local Business Development Officer, private schools are very active internationally. Thames Valley is closing the K-12 gap Sarah Noad, travelled to China for international students in London. in October where she worked to promote TVDSB at recruitment While Thames Valley has historically supported international education initiatives fairs in seven cities across the like student and teacher exchanges, and continually hosts over 100 students from country. She met with students around the world, a more concerted effort has been put forth to grow our international and families interested in studying program. We will be actively recruiting international students and fostering international in Thames Valley and began to opportunities for staff and students. develop relationships with key international education agencies. International Students Throughout the circuit, she also International students apply and pay a fee to attend Thames Valley for a semester, an met with and visited several local academic year, or longer, with the goal of attaining an OSSD. schools. After arrival, most international students will live with a Canadian family in “homestay” Thames Valley currently hosts or with friends or relatives located in the area. Students who require English as a students from: Second Language (ESL) or English language support at the secondary-school level attend one of the dedicated schools with these resources – currently Montcalm, • China Westminster, and H.B. Beal secondary schools – where they take ESL alongside other • Finland academic courses. International Students are attracted to TVDSB for: • Iran • Libya • strong academic programming with a focus on music, the arts, technology, and • Netherlands athletics • South Korea • a well-rounded education where students have the flexibility topursue their • Spain strengths • Taiwan • small class sizes with caring, award-winning teachers • USA • London as a smaller city offers many amenities and is in a prime location close to • Vietnam Toronto and the U.S., and the Great Lakes • cultural diversity and a welcoming environment • proximity to world-class post-secondary education at Western, Fanshawe and beyond.
While Thames Valley provides an advantage for international students, the following are some of the numerous benefits to our system: • Expands the perspective (world vision) of students and staff • Enriches our classrooms and communities • Prepares students for future challenges and opportunities inherent in a global society 30 • Enhances diversity across the district • Creates opportunities for students and staff for more internationalexperiences • Enhances the image of public education in Ontario • Provides inherent economic, academic, and cultural benefits FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 32 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO
Thames Valley’s exceptional educators and facilities promoted at education expo in China FEBRUARY 17, 2015 Page 33 of 33 11. C.19 - CW INFO
available online at www.tvdsb.ca/AnnualReport
The Thames Valley District School Board is committed to providing accessible communication for all individuals. This document will be made available in accessible formats upon request.