Board Meeting - Public Session (Markham)

Juanita Nathan Chair Board Meeting - Public Session (Markham)

Cynthia Cordova Tuesday, September 15, 2020 Vice-Chair (Georgina) Electronic Meeting - 7:30 PM

Lauri Hoeg Access Instructions on page 5 (Indigenous Trustee) Revised

Linda Gilbert (Newmarket) Pages

Cindy Liang 1. Roll Call (Richmond Hill)

Christina Lin 2. Land Acknowledgement (Student Trustee)

Ron Lynn 3. Canadian National Anthem (Markham) 4. Approval of Agenda Nadeem Mahmood (Vaughan) 5. Declaration of Conflict of Interest Felix Nomerovsky (Student Trustee) 6. Report from the Board Meeting -

Private Session September 15, 2020 Bob McRoberts (Aurora and King) 7. Special Announcements David Sherman (Markham and Vaughan) 8. Student Trustee Report - Christine Lin, Felix Nomerovsky Dr. Elizabeth Sinclair and Ashton Wood (Vaughan)

9. Director's Information Report Allan Tam (Markham) 10. Ontario Public School Boards' Association Report Elizabeth Terrell-Tracey (East Gwillimbury and Whitchurch-Stouffville) 11. Approval of Board Meeting Minutes

Ashton Wood (a) Board Meeting, June 30, 2020 (*) 7 - 23 (Indigenous Student Trustee) (b) Special Board Meeting, July 6, 2020 (*) 25 - 31

Vacant (c) Special Board Meeting, August 5, 2020 (*) 33 - 42 (Richmond Hill) (d) Special Board Meeting, August 25, 2020 (*) 43 - 52

60 Wellington Street West, Aurora Ontario L4G 3H2 (905) 727-3141 (905) 895-7216 (905) 722-3201 (416) 969-8131 Fax: (905) 727-1931 www.yrdsb.ca

12. Routine (*) and Non-Routine Presentation of Minutes and Recommendations of Board Committees:

(a) Policy and By-Law Committee, July 6, 2020 (*) 53 - 57

(b) Special Chair’s Committee, August 25, 2020 (*) 59 - 63

13. New Business

(a) York Region District School Board Reopening Strategy 65 - 75 Update

(b) Renaming of Vaughan Secondary School 77 - 82

14. Meetings and Events (*)

(a) September and October 2020 (*) 83

15. Adjournment

60 Wellington Street West, Aurora Ontario L4G 3H2 (905) 727-3141 (905) 895-7216 (905) 722-3201 (416) 969-8131 Fax: (905) 727-1931 www.yrdsb.ca Page 2 of 83 Welcome to the York Region District School Board The Parent, Family and Community Engagement All about Board Other Board Advisory Committee meets at least Meetings Committee meetings four times annually, usually on the second Thursday of the month beginning at 7:00 p.m. at the Education Centre – Aurora. For further information please contact Board Meetings are usually held on Members of the public are welcome to Education and Community Services, the first Tuesday of each month at the attend and observe any of the following extension 2242. Education Centre, 60 Wellington Street public Advisory and Board Committee West, Aurora. The meeting schedule is meetings. Agenda packages are posted on The Policy and By-Law available on the Board website. the Board website prior to the meeting. Committee usually meets on the first Tuesday of the month, beginning at 4:30 Q If you are planningQ to attend any Board, p.m. at the Education Centre – Aurora. Board Meetings are open to the public and begin at 7:30 p.m. Agenda packages Advisory or Board Committee meeting, For further information, please contact and minutes from previous meetings are please contact Corporate Secretariat and Corporate Secretariat and Trustee available on the Board website. A limited Trustee Services, extension 2327, 2262, or Services, extension 2262. number of hard copy agenda packages 2266 to make arrangements. are available at each meeting. Property Management Audit Committee meetings are Committee meetings are usually You may sign up to receive email scheduled as required; usually three times held the third Tuesday of the month, notifications for Board, Advisory and annually, beginning at 4:30 p.m. at the beginning at 4:30 p.m. at the Education Board Committee meeting agendas. Education Centre – Aurora. For further Centre – Aurora. For further information, Contact Corporate Secretariat and information, please contact Finance please contact Planning and Property Trustee Services if you have questions Services, extension 2565. Development Services, extension 2424. or require support. Board Standing Committee The Special Education Advisory meetings are usually held the third Committee usually meets on the first Tuesday of the month beginning at 7:00 Thursday of the month at 7:00 p.m. at the How can I address p.m. at the Education Centre – Aurora. Education Centre – Aurora. For further the Board? For further information, please contact information please contact Education and Corporate Secretariat and Trustee Community Services, extension 2027. Services, extension 2327. lll Community members wishing to Budget Committee meetings are address the Board of Trustees should scheduled as required, usually between What about submit a written application to Chair’s January and June, beginning at 7:00 School Councils? Committee. Chair’s Committee will p.m. at the Education Centre – Aurora. decide whether the matter should be For further information please contact heard at a Board Standing or other Business Services, extension 2565. CommitteeQ meeting or referred to staff Each public school in York Region has a for follow-up. For additional information Chair's Committee meetings are school council. For additional information please refer to Section 4:01 of the usually held on the Tuesday prior to the on school councils, please contact the Board’s Operational By-Law or contact Board Meeting at the Education Centre school principal. If you require further Lisa Reinhardt, Manager, Corporate – Aurora. For further information, please information, contact Principal, Inclusive Secretariat and Trustee Services, contact Corporate Secretariat and School andQ Community Services Donna extension 2217. Trustee Services, extension 2049. Ford, 905-884-2046, extension 238 or Coordinating Superintendent, The Equity and Inclusivity Indigenous Education and Equity Advisory Committee meets at least Cecil Roach, 905-884-2046, extension 260. When are Public four times annually, usually on the second Forums held? Thursday of the month, beginning at 7:00 p.m. at the Education Centre – Aurora. For further information, please contact Do I have access Indigenous Education and Equity, to Board policies? In addition to the formal delegation 905-884-2046, extension 272. process, the York Region District School Board hosts an informal Public Forum The Joint Board Consortium meets from 7:00 to 7:15 p.m. during the Board three times annually, usually on the first Standing Committee meeting. At this Yes, all Board policies are available for Wednesday of the month, beginning the public to access at any York Region time, members of the community may at 4:30 p.m., and is comprised of speak to anyQ appropriate public issue school or on the Board website. representatives from both the public and not already scheduled for consideration Catholic school boards in York Region. Questions about any Board policy or on the agenda. For further information, please contact procedure should be raised with your Corporate Secretariat and Trustee principal. YouQ may also contact Corporate Although it is not necessary to register Services, extension 2266. prior to the meeting, you may call Secretariat and Trustee Services, or email Corporate Secretariat and Trustee [email protected] if you would Services, extension 2327 to reserve like a copy of a particular policy or have a spot. any questions.

Visit our website at: www.yrdsb.ca Page 3 of 83 Page 4 of 83 York Region District School Board: Accessing Electronic Meetings

Connecting By Webinar

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You will receive a confirmation email with information about joining the webinar.

For detailed information about the webinar registration process please visit the Electronic Meeting Resources page on the Board website.

Connecting By Telephone

Dial (647) 497-9386 and enter Access Code: 506-064-903#

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YORK REGION DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD BOARD MEETING MINUTES - PUBLIC SESSION JUNE 30, 2020

The Board Meeting - Public Session of the York Region District School Board was held electronically at 8:05 p.m. on Tuesday, June 30, 2020 with Chair J. Nathan presiding and the following members present; Trustees C. Cordova, L. Gilbert, L. Hoeg, C. Liang, R. Lynn, C. McBain, B. McRoberts, J. Nathan, D. Sherman, E. Sinclair and A. Tam

Also in Attendance: Student Trustees M. Chou and N. Hamzea and Student Trustee Elects C. Lin, F. Nomerovsky and A. Wood

Authorized Absent: Trustee E. Terrell-Tracey

LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT

Board Chair J. Nathan provided remarks and an acknowledgement of thanks and appreciation to the First Peoples of the Williams Treaty First Nations, other Indigenous Peoples and the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation as the Board’s closest community and partners in education.

CANADIAN NATIONAL ANTHEM

A video of students from Greensborough Public School singing the national anthem was shared.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

(*)1. Moved by N. Mahmood, seconded by L. Gilbert:

That the agenda be approved as written.

- Carried -

DECLARATION OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST

Board Chair J. Nathan asked any trustee who has a direct personal interest or direct or indirect pecuniary interest in any matter being discussed by the Board to state their conflict and the nature thereof. No conflicts were declared by trustees at this time.

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RISE AND REPORT – JUNE 30, 2020 BOARD MEETING – PRIVATE SESSION

(*)2. Moved by C. Cordova, seconded by A. Tam:

1. That the York Region District School Board approve the recommendation from the June 4, 2020 Audit Committee meeting.

2. That the York Region District School Board approve the recommendations from the June 16, 2020 Director of Education Performance Review Committee meeting.

3. That the York Region District School Board approve the recommendation regarding a personnel matter.

- Carried -

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

Board Chair J. Nathan introduced special announcements and acknowledged the promotion of an inclusive environment across the York Region District School Board.

Update from the Anti-Black Racism Steering Committee

At this time Trustee B. McRoberts made the following remarks.

“Last evening, the Anti-Black Racism Steering Committee was introduced to Tana Turner from Turner Consulting. Tana and her colleague, Yvettes Barnes walked the committee through the next stages of the development of the Board’s Anti-Black Racism Strategy (“Strategy”). A working group, composed of members of the Steering Committee, will be established to support this work. The working group will be the main authors of the Strategy and meet several times over the course of the summer. The Steering Committee will provide feedback to the working group and will also be scheduled to meet several times over the summer months. The Anti-Black Racism Advisory Committee will also act as a resource to support the development of the Strategy. The Strategy is scheduled for completion in October and is hoped to be fully endorsed by the Anti-Black Racism Steering Committee.”

At this time, Trustee N. Mahmood shared examples of the great work that many teachers are doing in schools to support students across the Board.

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Confirmation of Completion of Annual Performance Review for the Director of Education

Board Chair J. Nathan made the following remarks.

“The York Region District School Board of Trustees is committed to supporting student success through our strategic priorities and management of our sole employee, the Director of Education. Our performance review process and evaluation criteria for the Director is publicly posted to ensure transparency and accountability to our communities.

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I am pleased to confirm that the Annual Performance Review for Director of Education Louise Sirisko has been successfully completed. This year’s assessment involved all 13 trustees in a thorough process administered by a third party consultant. Our review looked at the Key Accountabilities, Strategic Priorities and Leadership Competencies.

As outlined in Board policy and procedure, next year’s review will include a confidential 360-degree performance feedback process which will invite input from all trustees, student trustees, members of the Senior Leadership Team, the Board’s Advisory Committees, unions and federations and other employee groups and identified community partners.

Revisions to the Key Accountabilities and Leadership Competencies sections of the Director of Education Position Profile for July 2020 to June 2021 have been approved and will be updated on the Board’s public website. The Strategic Priorities section will be updated in the Fall when the Director releases her Director’s Action Plan. ”

RECOGNITION OF OUTGOING TRUSTEE CORRIE MCBAIN

Board Chair J. Nathan made the following remarks in recognition of outgoing Trustee C. McBain

“It is my honour to recognize Trustee Corrie McBain for the many contributions that she has made to public education in York Region.

As the mother of children who attended public schools in York Region, Trustee McBain had already been contributing to our education system for many years before serving on the Board of Trustees. She had been a school council chair, member of the Parent, Family and Community Engagement Advisory and the Equity and Inclusivity Advisory Committees, math tutor and a co-ordinator of robotics programs.

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It was in 2014 that Trustee McBain successfully ran and was elected as trustee to represent Richmond Hill. After her election, Trustee McBain expanded on her knowledge of our system by serving on numerous committees. Her committee work covered a variety of areas including special education, property management, policy development, student discipline, multi-year strategic planning and board governance. After three years as a trustee, her experiences and knowledge enabled her to move into leadership roles on our Board. In 2017, Trustee McBain was elected Vice-Chair. She was elected Chair of the Board in 2018. Trustee McBain took on these roles during a very challenging time for York Region District School Board.

Prior to her election as Vice-Chair, York Region District School Board had faced many difficult issues around equity, inclusivity and governance. Our Board tackled these challenges under Trustee McBain’s leadership. She consistently led with integrity, professionalism and compassion for our students and families. Trustee McBain has spent many hours and evenings working and meeting with families and community groups throughout York Region. She has worked tirelessly to help mend relationships and establish new ones based on trust and respect. As she worked to improve education in York Region, Trustee McBain used her knowledge and expertise to help lead our colleagues at the provincial level. She first served with Ontario Public School Boards’ Association (OPSBA) as a Board of Directors’ member, Voting Delegate and Alternate Voting Delegate in 2014 until 2019. Trustee McBain was a member of OPSBA’s Policy Development Work Team from 2017 until 2019. She was then elected the OPSBA Central Representative at the Annual General Meeting in 2019.

Since 2014 when she was first elected trustee, Trustee McBain has continued to have a positive impact on education within her community, across York Region and the province. She has always put the needs of the families of Richmond Hill, and all of York Region, first and foremost in her decision-making. Trustee McBain, it has truly been an honour to work with you.

I thank you on behalf of the York Region District School Board for your years of service, your dedication to the students of YRDSB and for your commitment to strengthening public education in York Region. You will be missed by your colleagues and the many students and families whose lives that you have changed for the better during your time as Trustee. I thank you for the many contributions that you have made to York Region District School Board and wish you all the best in the future.”

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STUDENT TRUSTEE REPORT

At this time Student Trustees M. Chou and N. Hamzea made the following remarks.

“Good evening Madam Chair, Madame Director, Fellow Trustees, Staff, Ladies and Gentlemen,

This meeting is bittersweet for us. Although we have so much to share regarding the events of this past month, it is also our last Board meeting of our term. With our term soon coming to an end, we have been working diligently to ensure we represent the voices of the more than 128,000 YRDSB students all the way until the very end and we have a lot of exciting news to share.

On June 16, 2020, we filmed a video addressing students. It was quite refreshing to see each other and members of the staff again in person for the first time since March. After filming the video, we sat in our chairs in the Board Room, reminiscing about how it would be the last time that we would be sitting there. All good things must come to an end; however, we were able to leave the building with a smile and amazing memories.

On a positive note, we are excited to announce that for the first time, the York Region Presidents’ Council will have an official budget for the 2020-2021 school year. The YRPC is an incredible organization that hosts monthly General Assemblies as well as bi-annual Student Outreach Meetings which bring together secondary students from across the Board to discuss and advocate for issues pertaining to a variety of themes, such as mental health, while also providing professional development opportunities for the school ambassadors that attend. Over the last year, the YRPC has grown exponentially and has gone from an average of 30 General Assembly attendees, to approximately 100. We hope that the new $25,000 budget will allow the council to accommodate for their expansion as well as to break down accessibility barriers for those who wish to attend.

In light of recent events, we have also created a list of specific recommendations regarding how we can tackle anti-Black and anti-Indigenous racism. These recommendations included points under data collection, funding, staff and teacher training, curriculum additions and elevating student voice, that tie directly to Board priorities of empowering ethical leadership, championing equity and inclusivity, building collaborative relationships and fostering well-being and mental health. We submitted these recommendations as two separate documents to Director Sirisko, who has committed to forwarding our thoughts to the appropriate committees so that we can ensure that our ideas are considered when identifying how to best serve our Black, Indigenous and visible minority students.

Furthermore, on June 19, 2020, our first-ever Indigenous Student Trustee was announced; Ashton Wood from Huron Heights Secondary School. We are ecstatic to introduce her to all Trustees and staff tonight, as one of our incoming student trustees.

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With her experiences as an advocate for Indigenous rights and humanities through the First Nation, Metis and Inuit (FNMI) program in her community, conferences that raise awareness for the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, and several other cultural festivals and gatherings, we are confident that she will fully represent the voices of our Indigenous students at the YRDSB. Joining Ashton next year are Christine Lin from Newmarket Secondary School and Felix Nomerovsky from Vaughan Secondary School, who we are confident will pursue their role with the same drive. We will be conducting various workshops and orientations with ourselves, Trustees and staff, to ensure that they will be properly equipped with the resources and supports needed for this transition. Ashton, Christine and Felix, we are incredibly proud to be handing you the torch on August 1.

Although we have expressed this countless times during the year, our experiences as student trustees has been the highlight of our high school career. We hope that we will not only be remembered by our accomplishments this term, but more importantly, the relationships we established with everyone at the Board and our own unique team dynamic. Even though we have shared multiple classes together but have never spoken to each other prior to our election, we have come out of our term as best friends or, how we like to describe it, in a brother-sister relationship.

We will miss the Board Room and all of its lovely members on Tuesday and Thursday nights, the meetings after school in our school’s staff room, dressing up in fancy clothing, going to Board events to collect red YRDSB lanyards and network with our trustee colleagues in between meetings while guarding the sweets, but miserably failed.

To the Board staff, trustees, Director, and everyone else that has helped us throughout this incredible journey, we just wanted to say one last time from the bottom of our hearts thank you.”

Board Chair J. Nathan made the following remarks.

“This moment is bittersweet for all of us. You have both been strong advocates for student voice around this table, in committee meetings and through many other engagement opportunities. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, thank you for bringing student voice to the forefront of our decision making and best of luck in all your future endeavours.”

Action Item: Recommendations regarding anti-Black and anti-Indigenous racism will be shared with trustees.

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INDUCTION OF 2020-2021 STUDENT TRUSTEES CHRISTINE LIN, FELIX NOMEROVSKY AND ASHTON WOOD

Board Chair J. Nathan invited Vice-Chair C. Cordova to officiate the induction process for the incoming student trustees.

At this time, C. Cordova made the following remarks:

“Please join me in welcoming Christine Lin, Felix Nomerovsky and Ashton Wood who are being sworn in this evening as student trustees. They will officially begin their term as student trustees for the 2020-2021 school year on August 1, 2020. Christine, Felix and Ashton were selected by elementary and secondary students from across the Board.

Christine is a Grade 11 student from Newmarket High School. She has been involved in York Region Presidents’ Council (YRPC) and her school’s student council since Grade 10. She is also active in the community, co-founding an organization and directing community events to raise awareness surrounding mental health and its importance among students. Christine’s focus this year will be implementing more mental health resources at schools, working on the YRDSB budget process and promoting equity and inclusivity. Congratulations Christine.”

At this time, Student Trustee Elect C. Lin read and signed the Declaration of Office.

“Felix is a Grade 11 student from Vaughan Secondary School. He is the founder of a political discussion group aimed at decreasing the polarization of politics. Felix is also involved in air cadets and is a member of 283 Woodbridge Squadron with a specialty in marksmanship and aviation. His hobbies include soccer, playing video games and flying. He is looking forward to working with students to address their concerns this year.”

At this time, Student Trustee Elect F. Nomerovsky read and signed the Declaration of Office.

“Ashton is a Grade 11 student at Huron Heights Secondary School. She is York Region District School Board’s first ever Indigenous Student Trustee. Ashton is 7th generation Ojibwe. She has been an active part of the YRDSB FNMI program for the past five years. Ashton has attended Leadership retreats and Teaching circles held by her Elders. Her advocacy for Indigenous rights and humanities began in Grade 8, focusing on the Residential School experience. In May of this year, she took part in an online conference held by the University of California aimed at raising awareness and advocacy for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Ashton is an Indigenous artist working with both beading and acrylic. She is active on Tik Tok which has given her a worldwide platform for her Indigenous videos. Ashton is looking forward to supporting and representing the Indigenous students of York Region.”

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At this time, Student Trustee Elect A. Wood read and signed the Declaration of Office. Vice Chair C. Cordova continued with the following remarks.

“Congratulations Felix, Christine and Ashton!

Student trustees play an important role in our Board. We greatly value the perspectives that our students bring to the Board Room and the work that you do to promote student voice. We wish you the best of luck in your role and we look forward to working with you to advance student achievement and well-being in York Region.”

DIRECTOR’S INFORMATION REPORT

Director L. Sirisko congratulated Student Trustees M. Chou and N. Hamzea on their workShe welcomed Student Trustee Elects C. Lin, F. Nomerovsky and A. Wood. Additionally, Director Sirisko expressed best wishes on behalf of the Senior Leadership Team and thanked outgoing Trustee C. McBain for her contribution to the Board.

“Anti-Black Racism Strategy Update

As mentioned by Trustee McRoberts, the Anti-Black Racism Steering committee met last evening and was facilitated by Tana Turner, who supported the Board in the development of our Employment Equity Audit. The committee is dedicated to identifying key areas on which our Board needs to focus to enable equitable outcomes for our Black students and staff. Staff are dedicated to dismantling barriers to the success. We are looking forward to rich conversations, strong collaboration and the development of a plan targeting the systems and ideologies that must be changed. We will continue to provide updates to the Board on our progress.

Grad Caps Project

The 2019-2020 school year wrapped up last week. Leading up to the end of the year, many of our families had expressed their disappointment at the postponement of grad ceremonies due to COVID-19.

To show support for both our elementary and secondary graduates, and to help recognize this milestone in their lives, staff were encouraged to take part in our Grad Cap Project. We shared a Grad Cap poster for staff members and families to download and display in their home or school windows, as well as a Grad Cap visual to share on social media. Staff from elementary and secondary schools also gave the grads a special musical send-off with the help of popular Canadian band, The Arkells. If you have not already seen them, you can find the videos on our social media channels. We remain optimistic that we will celebrate with our students at graduations in the fall. In the meantime, we wish all the best to our graduating students!

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Report Cards

At our Board meeting earlier this month, I promised to give an update on report cards. I am happy to let you know that report cards began being issued last week to elementary families. Kindergarten students received a Communication of Learning. The distribution to secondary students is expected to wrap up later this week. Families received their reports electronically and they will have until July 29 to download and view them. Families will also have the option to receive paper copies.

Summer Learning

To help reduce the spread of COVID-19, we have made adjustments to our summer learning programs. While schools remain closed, we continue to offer credit and non- credit summer school program opportunities for elementary and secondary students.

Programs running this year include:

• elementary summer school (for Grades 6-8); • summer school e-Learning (a mix of synchronous and asynchronous learning); and • secondary summer school (acceleration courses and credit recovery/ reinforcement courses).

All programs will be offered in a remote learning environment as a result of the school closures.”

ONTARIO PUBLIC SCHOOL BOARDS’ ASSOCIATION REPORT

Trustee R. Lynn took this opportunity to express thanks and well wishes to Student Trustees M. Chou and N. Hamzea. Additionally, he welcomed incoming Student Trustee Elects C. Lin, F. Nomerovsky and A. Wood.

Trustee R. Lynn shared updates from the Ontario Public School Boards’ Association (OPSBA) including;

• the Reopening Plan for schools and the various models of learning being considered, • OPSBA’s submission to the Ministry regarding Ontario’s Framework for Continued Learning, • OPSBA’s statement on the new Mathematics Curriculum and professional development for staff to assist with the role for Fall 2020, and • feedback and recommendations from OPSBA regarding the Board’s advocacy through the policy resolution on Anti-Racism, Anti-Indigenous and Anti-Black Racism.

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Trustee Lynn noted that OPSBA expressed thanks and well wishes to outgoing Trustee C. McBain.

APPROVAL OF THE JUNE 1, 2020, JUNE 2, 2020 AND JUNE 22, 2020 BOARD MEETING MINUTES

(*)3. Moved by B. McRoberts, seconded by E. Sinclair:

That the Minutes of the June 1, June 2, and June 22, 2020 Special Board meetings be approved as written.

- Carried -

APPROVAL OF ROUTINE RECOMMENDATIONS AND RECEIPT OF MINUTES OF BOARD COMMITTEES

Board Chair J. Nathan provided updates as follows;

• a draft of the poster to support families who are seeking support in accordance with the Supporting Community Concerns policy and procedure was shared with trustees, • discussion items identified at the Board Governance Review Committee meeting have been added to the Pending Items List for consideration at a future meeting, • an update on action items from the June 16, 2020 Budget Committee meeting was provided to trustees, • action items from the Chair’s Committee meeting will be summarized in the Business Arising Report, • revisions have been made to the Trustee Professional Development Plan for 2020- 2021 at the request of Chair’s Committee, and • mandatory anti-racism and anti-oppression training will be scheduled in August for trustees.

(*)4. Moved by N. Mahmood, seconded by R. Lynn:

That the York Region District School Board receive the Minutes from the following meetings for information;

• June 4, 2020 Audit Committee, • June 9, 2020 Board Governance Review Committee, and • June 23, 2020 Budget Committee

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Policy and By-Law Committee Meeting Minutes, June 2, 2020

That the York Region District School Board receive the Minutes and approve the following routine recommendations from the June 2, 2020 Policy and By-Law Committee meeting.

1) Policy #152.0, Severe Weather

That in accordance with Board Policy #285.0, Board Policies, Procedures and Supporting Documents, Policy #152.0, Severe Weather be forwarded to the June 30, 2020 Board Meeting for final approval.

2) Policy and Procedure #220.0, Trustee Services

That in accordance with Board Policy #285.0, Board Policies, Procedures and Supporting Documents, Policy #220.0 Trustee Services be forwarded to the June 30, 2020 Board Meeting for final approval.

3) Policy #267.0, Supporting Community Concerns

That in accordance with Board Policy #285.0, Board Policies, Procedures and Supporting Documents, Policy #267.0 Supporting Community Concerns be forwarded to the June 30, 2020 Board Meeting for final approval.

4) Policy #105.0, Communications

That in accordance with Board Policy #285.0, Board Policies, Procedures and Supporting Documents, Working Document Policy #105.0, Communications will be circulated for comment for six school months.

Chair’s Committee Meeting Minutes, June 22, 2020

That the York Region District School Board receive the Minutes and approve the following routine recommendations from the June 22, 2020 Chair’s Committee meeting.

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1) Update on the Policy Resolutions Submitted to the Ontario Public School Boards’ Association (OPSBA)

That, on the recommendation of the Ontario Public School Boards’ Association, the York Region District School Board amend the Policy Resolution, approved by the Board at the April 7, 2020 Board Meeting to read as follows.

WHEREAS, There exists substantive qualitative and quantitative research in public education chronicling the adverse impact of underachievement experienced by both Indigenous students and Black students during their educational journeys and which remains an ongoing challenge for school districts across the province with the graduation rate for Ontario’s Indigenous students presently sitting at 60 per cent (provincial data) and 69 per cent for Black students (Toronto District School Board Data) compared to 87 per cent for all Ontario students (2018); and

WHEREAS, Further research and inquiry reports, such as, but not limited to Indigenous Education Strategy, Truth and Reconciliation Commission, Stephen Lewis Report on Race Relations in Ontario, Roots of Youth Violence, Ontario Human Rights Commission, Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario, One Vision, One Voice: Changing the Ontario Child Welfare System to Better Serve African Canadians, have shown that the experiences of anti-Indigenous and anti-Black racism are contributing factors to the underservice of these two growing demographics of students; and

WHEREAS, Both the Ministry of Education and school districts across Ontario have developed an Indigenous education strategy and have developed or are working on an anti-Black racism strategy; and

WHEREAS, The Government of Ontario has developed Data Standards for the Identification and Monitoring of Systemic Racism to support public sector organizations fulfil their obligations under the Anti-Racism Act, 2017 to identify and monitor racial disparities in order to eliminate systemic racism and advance racial equity; and

WHEREAS, all parties involved in educating Ontario’s children are entrusted with a legal, moral and ethical obligation in understanding the urgency of fostering a learning climate predicated on eliminating anti- Indigenous racism and anti-Black racism and the ways they operate in schools to marginalize Indigenous and Black students.

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THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED:

That, the Ontario Public School Boards’ Association advocate to the Ministry of Education and the Education Equity Secretariat, supporting the work of district school boards with regard to anti-Indigenous and anti-Black racism be a priority, this support must include funding, and should involve the sharing of research, including the collection of identity-based data on educational outcomes, as well as effective practices, strategies, and approaches.

2) Trustee Conference Requests

That, in accordance with Policy and Procedure #220.0, Trustee Services, the York Region District School Board approve the request from Trustee E. Terrell-Tracey to participate in the online webinar Four Big Questions on Racial Injustice Parts 1 and 2.

- Carried -

RECEIPT OF ADVISORY COMMITTEE MINUTES

Trustee R. Lynn highlighted information about the Executive Functioning pilot programme referenced at the June 4, 2020 Special Education Advisory Committee meeting.

In response to Trustee R. Lynn’s question, Coordinating Superintendent of Education Student Services and Well-Being K. Diakiw shared;

• the Executive Functioning pilot programme is currently in 21 elementary schools, • teachers at the secondary level have expressed interested in the programme, and • factors impacting the expansion of the program and possible timelines for implementation at the secondary level.

The Minutes of the June 4, 2020 SEAC meeting were received for information.

APPROVAL OF THE 2020-2021 BUDGET

Board Chair J. Nathan highlighted the Budget Committee recommended approval of a balanced Budget in the amount of $1,571,525,000.00 for the 2020-2021 year at the June 23, 2020 Budget meeting.

Director L. Sirisko expressed gratitude to Chief Financial Officer V. Maharaj, Senior Managers, Finance D. Reynolds and K. Brady and all the staff in the Business and Finance Services department for their strong efforts in presenting a balanced Budget.

Page 19 of 83 BOARD MEETING MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 14 JUNE 30, 2020 ______

Budget Committee Chair D. Sherman thanked staff for ensuring public input was considered in the budget development process. Additionally, he thanked the Business and Finance Services teams for their commitment and time in preparing the budget.

(*)5. Moved by D. Sherman, seconded by N. Mahmood:

That the York Region District School Board approve a balanced Budget for 2020-2021 in the amount of $1,571,525,000.00 as recommended by the Budget Committee on June 23, 2020.

- Carried -

YORK REGION DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD REOPENING STRATEGY

Board Chair J. Nathan thanked staff for preparing a comprehensive report to enable the Board to demonstrate accountability to members of the public regarding the Reopening of Schools in September.

Director L. Sirisko highlighted that safely reopening a system is complex. She outlined ongoing collaboration with other school boards in the Greater Toronto Area to share best practices. The Director expressed her commitment to keeping families informed about the Board’s progress over the summer.

At this time, Associate Director S. Reid was invited to provide updates regarding;

• possible reopening models, • safety measures, • opportunities, challenges and priorities identified by the School Reopening Working Group, • examples of how learning will be facilitated through cohorts, and feedback from families and how it is being used to support planning.

Associate Director C. La Touche highlighted;

• health and safety, school year calendar, transportation and technology considerations, • consultation with families, staff and students to inform the planning, • health and safety is a priority for students and staff, • the importance of collaborative planning with impacted partners, • the requirement of school boards to adhere to Ministry parameters, and • revisions to the school year calendar to ensure a supported re-entry process.

Action Item: A report regarding changes to the School Year Calendars will be brought to a future Board meeting.

Page 20 of 83 BOARD MEETING MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 15 JUNE 30, 2020 ______

In response to trustee questions, staff shared;

• synchronous learning is a priority in the planning for school reopening, • summer school structures will be used to inform the synchronous learning model, • mental health and well-being supports are being strengthened to support students, • information about the number of families who participated in the online survey, • known information about student transportation measures and cohorting, • the Board is working collaborative with the other school boards, unions, public health, staff and families to make informed decisions, • special education and mental health and well-being needs of students and staff are being prioritized, • resources are being developed to support social identities and identified gaps, and • the Board is working collaboratively with the Ministry to identify guidelines related to Personal Protective Equipment.

MULTI-YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN AND DIRECTOR’S ACTION PLAN MONITORING REPORT: PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER

Board Chair J. Nathan highlighted that this is an annual report outlining overall progress towards the achievement of the Board’s strategic priorities.

Director L. Sirisko highlighted the four main goals of the Strategic Plan;

• Foster Well-Being and Mental Health, • Champion Equity and Inclusivity, • Build Collaborative Relationships, and • Empower Ethical Leadership.

Coordinating Superintendent of Education, Student Services and Well-Being K. Diakiw shared;

• an update on System Action 1.3 which involved the completion of a resource map to support staff mental health and well-being, • examples of the resources which will be available to students, • information about equitable access to mental health and well-being resources, • an update of the Board’s Student Suicide Intervention Protocol and mandatory training, • COVID-19 suicide response resources and supports for families, • how gaps in culturally relevant resource options are addressed in collaboration with various community agencies, • information about the work of identity-specific social workers, and • targeted supports for students in specific areas of the Board.

Page 21 of 83 BOARD MEETING MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 16 JUNE 30, 2020 ______

Principal, Equity and Inclusivity D. Ford highlighted;

• updates regarding System Action 2.4, • the impact of the recent incidents of racism across the world and the work the Board is doing to combat racism, • ongoing learning and healing for staff, students and communities related to anti- Black racism and affirmation of Black identity, • examples of how the Board is engaging students in the healing process through poetry, • professional supports provided to staff in learning about trauma related to anti- Black racism and mental health and well-being, • opportunities for Black staff to speak about trauma through a learning circle, and • collaboration with the Alliance for Black Educators to bring expertise in supporting the well-being of students.

Superintendent of Education, Curriculum and Instructional Services H. Sears highlighted;

• information about professional development opportunities for teachers in the area of mathematics, • the work of the Superintendent Mathematics Network 2019-2020, • resources, tasks, learning identities, learning opportunities, impact of the Superintendent Mathematics Network on students, online learning and digital mathematics tools, • self-assessments and supports for students, and • how the new Mathematics Curriculum will be implemented in September 2020.

Chief Technology Strategist P. Bennett shared;

• an update on the work of the Service Excellence Working Group, • examples of service excellence, • self-assessment tools developed to assist departments to improve department plans with a focus on service excellence, • opportunities for training staff on service excellence, • a survey was developed to ensure that departments understood the definition of service excellence, and • enhancements being made to the RESOLVE tool.

Superintendent of Education, Leadership Development R. Russo outlined;

• continuing work around bringing clarity and shared understanding of ethical leadership, • knowledge sharing and building through continued development of the working definition of ethical leadership,

Page 22 of 83 BOARD MEETING MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 17 JUNE 30, 2020 ______

• the key elements of ethical leadership, • what an ethical organization means in relation to actions and decision-making, • a leadership framework will be launched in the future, • the role of employees in developing an ethical organization, and • tools to support a greater understanding of ethical leadership.

At this time, Director L. Sirisko shared the work on the Multi-Year Strategic Plan continues. She outlined;

• the needs connected with the Multi-Year Strategic Plan in relation to opening schools in September, and • the Director’s Action Plan (DAP) will be finalized in the fall and will include a Monitoring and Evaluation framework.

Trustees thanked the Director and staff for the comprehensive report.

Action Item: A report on the Board’s partnership with York Regional Police will be provided at a future meeting.

ADJOURNMENT

(*)6. Moved by A. Tam, seconded by E. Sinclair:

That the Board Meeting (Public Session) be adjourned at 10:16 p.m.

- Carried -

______Director of Education and Chair of the Board Secretary-Treasurer

Page 23 of 83 Page 24 of 83 YORK REGION DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD SPECIAL BOARD MEETING MINUTES - PUBLIC SESSION JULY 6, 2020

The Special Board Meeting - Public Session of the York Region District School Board was held electronically at 7:35 p.m. on Monday, July 6, 2020 with Chair J. Nathan presiding and the following trustee members present; C. Cordova, L. Gilbert, L. Hoeg, C. Liang, R. Lynn, B. McRoberts, N. Mahmood, D. Sherman, E. Sinclair and A. Tam

Also in Attendance: Student Trustee N. Hamzea

Regrets: Student Trustee M. Chou

Authorized Absence: Trustee E. Terrell-Tracey

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

(*)1. Moved by R. Lynn, seconded by D. Sherman:

That the agenda be approved as written.

- Carried -

DECLARATION OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST

REPORT FROM PRIVATE SESSION

Chair J. Nathan highlighted that there were no decisions made in private session requiring ratification.

DIRECTOR’S INFORMATION REPORT

“Minister Announcements

I would like to bring your attention to an article in the Toronto Star today that featured Minister of Education Stephen Lecce. The Minister announced a number of new measures he plans to introduce to enable equitable outcomes for marginalized students. The measures noted were:

 a ban on suspensions for students in early elementary grades;  de-streaming grade nine courses; and

Page 25 of 83 SPECIAL BOARD MEETING MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 2 July 6, 2020 ______

 strengthening rules at the Ontario College of Teachers to ensure accountability for teachers who make racist comments or engage in discriminatory actions. The Minister said the government’s changes will be made through legislation and regulatory reform. The article also noted that there are anticipated changes to Regulation 274 which is related to teacher hiring. The Minister reinforced that educators need to reflect the students they serve. In regards to timing, the Minister noted some of the initiatives will be put in place immediately. He noted that de- streaming will be planned for September, although the year was not mentioned. As curriculum is being planned for revision in September 2021, my inference is that would be the date for planned de-streaming.

These announcements are very powerful. They will support our Black, Indigenous and other marginalized students to achieve equitable outcomes. I will keep the Board apprised of any formal announcements that are released by the Ministry and staff will work diligently to put into place the recommended changes.

Learning and Caring Plan Update

Staff continue to meet for hours daily working on developing and analyzing models related to the adaptive model for schooling in September. The challenge is very complex. We have been asked to design elementary and secondary school models that limit class sizes to 15. This means that classes need to be divided into cohorts and attend school on different days and students will only be attending school some days of the week; not every day. Simultaneously, we need to enable students who are not at school in person to have a robust online learning programme. Parents are currently providing feedback through a survey that will help us to understand their worries for the Fall and if they intend to send their children to class or have them learn online only. Attending school in person will be voluntary. In short, the pandemic will continue to provide limitations on all of us. A significant challenge for our families may be for those who are unable to work from home and have difficulty finding dacare. The Ministry will be asking about our plans at the end of July. Once finalized we will communicate to our families as soon as possible so their planning can take place.”

NEW BUSINESS

2020-2021 SCHOOL YEAR CALENDAR

Board Chair J. Nathan highlighted that trustees approved the 2020-2021 School Year Calendars at the March 3, 2020 Board meeting. The calendar was submitted to the Ministry of Education for review and approval. Since that time, and in response to training requirements for school-based staff prior to the beginning of the school year, revisions to the calendar are necessary. The Board Report outlines the rationale for changes and proposed actions.

Page 26 of 83 SPECIAL BOARD MEETING MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 3 July 6, 2020 ______

Associate Director C. La Touche provided background information for trustees’ information.

Motion to Rescind Recommendations Approved at the March 3, 2020 Board Meeting

(*)2. Moved by E. Sinclair, seconded by R. Lynn:

That, in accordance with the York Region District School Board Operational By-Law and Roberts Rules of Order, the York Region District School Board rescind the following clauses from Routine Recommendation #4 of the Board Standing Committee Meeting Minutes from February 18, 2020 contained within the minutes of the March 3, 2020 Board Meeting – Public Session related to the School Year Calendars for 2020-2021.

“4. That the Early Start Secondary School Calendar for 2020-2021 (impacting Keswick High School, Maple High School, Markville Secondary School and Sutton District High School) operate on a modified version of the Regular Secondary School Calendar for 2020-2021 with the following adjustments;

a) the first day of school for students will be Monday, August 31, 2020 instead of Tuesday, September 8, 2020, and b) a one-week mid-term break will be scheduled from Monday, October 26, 2020 to Friday, October 30, 2020.

5. That the Balanced Calendar for 2020-2021 (impacting Bill Crothers Secondary School) operate on a modified version of the Regular Secondary School Calendar for 2020-2021 with the following adjustments;

a) the first day of school for students will be Wednesday, August 5, 2020 instead of Tuesday, September 8, 2020, b) Bill Crothers Secondary School Holidays will be scheduled on Thursday, September 3, 2020, Friday, September 4, 2020, Friday, October 9, 2020, Monday, October 26, 2020 to Friday, October 30, 2020, Friday, December 4, 2020 and Monday, April 26, 2021 to Friday, April 30, 2021, and c) the last day of school for students will be Wednesday, June 16, 2021 instead of Monday, June 28, 2021.

Page 27 of 83 SPECIAL BOARD MEETING MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 4 July 6, 2020 ______

7. That the Professional Activity Days for the 2020-2021 school year be as follows:

EARLY START SECONDARY SCHOOLS (Keswick High School, Maple High School, Markville Secondary School, Sutton District High School)

1. Wednesday, August 26, 2020 2. Thursday, August 27, 2020 3. Friday, November 13, 2020 4. Monday, February 1, 2021 5. Friday, May 7, 2021 6. Tuesday, June 29, 2021 7. Wednesday, June 30, 2021

BALANCED CLAENDAR SECONDARY SCHOOL (Bill Crothers Secondary School)

1. Tuesday, August 4, 2020 2. Monday, September 21, 2020 3. Friday, November 13, 2020 4. Monday, January 15, 2021 5. Friday, May 7, 2021 6. Thursday, June 17, 2021 7. Friday, June 18, 2021”

- Carried -

Approval of Revised School Year Calendars for 2020-2021

Board Chair J. Nathan introduced the need to introduce new motions to replace those rescinded.

In response to trustee questions, staff highlighted;

• all four early start schools were consulted regarding the changes to the 2020- 2021 School Year Calendar, and • the findings from the survey indicated that health and safety, communication, expectations regarding online and face-to-face learning were top priorities for staff, families and students.

Page 28 of 83 SPECIAL BOARD MEETING MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 5 July 6, 2020 ______

(*)3. Moved by A. Tam, seconded by L. Gilbert:

That the York Region District School Board approve the following recommendations for the 2020-2021 school year only.

1. That Bill Crothers Secondary School, Keswick High School, Maple High School, Markville Secondary School and Sutton District High School operate on the Regular Secondary School Year Calendar for 2020-2021, as approved by the Board on March 3, 2020.

2. That Bill Crothers Secondary School, Keswick High School, Maple High School, Markville Secondary School and Sutton District High School operate on the Regular Secondary School have the same Professional Activity Days as All Regular Secondary Schools for the 2020-2021 school year, as approved by the Board on March 3, 2020.

- Carried -

TRUSTEES VACANCY TOWN OF RICHMOND HILL WARDS 1, 2 AND 4

Board Chair J. Nathan noted;

• trustees accepted the resignation of Trustee C. McBain at the May 19, 2020 Special Board meeting, • correspondence from the Clerk from the City of Richmond Hill, and • two options available to trustees to fill the vacancy.

In response to a trustee question, Manager, Corporate Secretariat and Trustee Services L. Reinhardt outlined procurement options available to support the identification of an external consultant to support an appointment process.

In considering the matter trustees engaged in deep discussion and deliberation, taking into account;

• the impact on staff resources, • the democratic process and importance of ensuring the public school electors in Richmond Hill Wards 1, 2 and 4 have an opportunity to be involved in selecting their representative, • voter turnout and costs, • how voting might look in light of social distancing provisions, • time remaining in the current Term of Office and time required to fill the vacancy, • the campaigning process, • the costs associated with ensuring health and safety measures are in place to protect voters,

Page 29 of 83 SPECIAL BOARD MEETING MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 6 July 6, 2020 ______

• the role of the City of Richmond Hill in determining how a by-election will be conducted, • use of public facilities for voting during a pandemic, • opportunities to leverage online voting, and • informal input shared by members of the public to individual trustees.

(*)4. Moved by C. Cordova, seconded by A. Tam:

That the York Region District School Board approve the following recommendations.

1. That the City of Richmond Hill be authorized to initiate a by-election under the Elections Act to fill the public school trustee vacancy created by the resignation of Corrie McBain in accordance with Section 221 (2) Optional election, of the Education Act.

2. That staff be authorized to notify the Clerk of the Town of Richmond Hill of the Board’s decision as outlined in Section 221(3) of the Education Act.

In accordance with Section 3:05:05 of the York Region District School Board Operational By-Laws, Trustee B. McRoberts requested a recorded vote.

In Favour: Trustees C. Cordova, L. Hoeg, C. Liang, R. Lynn, J. Nathan and A. Tam

Opposed: Trustees L. Gilbert, N. Mahmood, B. McRoberts, D. Sherman and E. Sinclair

Absent: Trustee E. Terrell-Tracey

- Carried -

At this time, Board Chair J. Nathan thanked trustees for the robust dialogue and thorough consideration of this important decision.

Page 30 of 83 SPECIAL BOARD MEETING MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 7 July 6, 2020 ______

ADJOURNMENT

(*)5. Moved by R. Lynn, seconded by E. Sinclair:

That the Special Board Meeting (Public Session) be adjourned at 8:54 p.m.

- Carried -

______Director of Education and Chair of the Board Secretary-Treasurer

Page 31 of 83 Page 32 of 83 YORK REGION DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD SPECIAL BOARD MEETING MINUTES - PUBLIC SESSION AUGUST 5, 2020

The Special Board Meeting - Public Session of the York Region District School Board was held electronically at 7:08 p.m. on Wednesday, August 5, 2020 with Chair J. Nathan presiding and the following trustee members present; C. Cordova, L. Gilbert, L. Hoeg, C. Liang, R. Lynn, B. McRoberts, N. Mahmood, D. Sherman, E. Sinclair and A. Tam

Also in Attendance: Student Trustees C. Lin, F. Nomerovsky and A. Wood

Authorized Absence: Trustee E. Terrell-Tracey

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

(*)1. Moved by E. Sinclair, seconded by C. Cordova:

That the agenda be approved as written.

- Carried -

DECLARATION OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST

REPORT FROM PRIVATE SESSION

Vice Chair C. Cordova highlighted that there were no decisions from private session requiring ratification at this time.

DIRECTOR’S INFORMATION REPORT

Director L. Sirisko indicated that there was no report at this time. She welcomed the 2020- 2021 Student Trustees and expressed excitement about the voice that they will bring to meetings of the Board of Trustees on behalf of students.

Page 33 of 83 SPECIAL BOARD MEETING MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 2 August 5, 2020 ______

SCHOOL REOPENING IN THE YORK REGION DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD

Board Chair J. Nathan extended appreciation to the Director and staff for working tirelessly to respond to Ministry direction and present a plan that puts student and staff safety and well-being at the centre.

At this time Director L. Sirisko highlighted;

• the development of a reopening strategy is complex, • several learning models were considered, • the Board’s reopening plan is aligned to the Ministry of Education guidelines, • planning is still ongoing, and • the importance of family input in making decisions.

With regard to the elementary model, Associate Director, Schools and Program S. Reid highlighted;

• cohorted contacts will be limited to 50 in class and during recesses, • enhanced health and safety protocols, • movement within the school will be limited to support cohorting with teachers moving between classes, and • opportunities for movement between online and face-to-face learning models.

With regard to the Secondary Adaptive Model, Associate Director Reid outlined;

• classes will be cohorted with a maximum of fifteen students per class, • synchronous and asynchronous learning opportunities for students, • the option to engage in face-to-face or online learning for students, and • interactions between cohorts will be minimal.

Staff shared students who are participating in online learning will;

• have the opportunity to transition to face-to-face after each semester at designated times, • be supported by staff using a fully online learning environment, • be engaged in real-time learning and will follow a regular schedule, • use Board-approved platforms to support engagement, and have access to as many courses as possible.

With regard to Special Education supports and services;

• the Board will be continuing to ensure students have access to mental health supports, • therapeutic groups convened over the summer will continue, and

Page 34 of 83 SPECIAL BOARD MEETING MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 3 August 5, 2020 ______

• the Ministry has provided additional funding to support student mental health and well-being.

Staff updated trustees on the distribution of technology to support student learning. The Government has expressed its commitment to enhancing broadband infrastructure in the province to support access.

Associate Director C. La Touche shared that staff have been working diligently to ensure that health and safety protocols are in place to support a safe return to working and learning. He highlighted;

• physical distancing guidelines and cohorting will be used to minimize contact, • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be worn by staff, • staggering recess and lunch times will be used to maintain cohorting, • signage and markings will be posted in all buildings, • high-risk activities will be limited, • hand hygiene will be strongly promoted, • staff will continue to monitor the situation to make a decision when to resume issuing permits to external service providers, • efforts are being made to reduce surface touch points, • cleaning protocols are being developed, and • students and staff who are symptomatic will not be permitted to attend schools or workplaces.

With regard to human resource matters, staff shared;

• the Work from Home Guideline is being updated, • protocols are being developed to ensure appropriate measures are in place for staff who test positive for COVID-19, • Work Refusal Protocol, • accommodation requests are being assessed, and • the Attendance, Absences and Leave Management Guide is being used to inform staffing decisions.

Staff provided an update on the provision of student transportation and the importance of ensuring public health requirements are being observed on school buses. School bell times are informing the bus routing and staff are working with York Region Transportation to ensure appropriate service delivery for secondary students.

Chief Financial Officer V. Maharaj shared;

• the 2019-2020 budget impacts of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be reflected in the Board’s financial statements,

Page 35 of 83 SPECIAL BOARD MEETING MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 4 August 5, 2020 ______

• the estimated cost of PPE and cleaning supplies for each month is six million dollars, • estimated increases in sick leave and occasional staffing, • additional costs for student transportation, • a decrease in revenues from International Students, permits and catering, and • expected government funding to support safe school reopening.

Trustees engaged in deep discussion and sought clarification from staff regarding the School Reopening Plan. In response to trustee questions, staff shared;

• student safety, parental voice and pedagogical connectivity were critical factors in deciding on a semester model as opposed to a quadmester model, • students will be encouraged to remain at school during lunches, • delivery of lunches by parents or external service providers will not be permitted, • the status of discussions regarding the allocation of supply teachers to schools, • a protocol is being developed with public health in the event there is an outbreak, • hand hygiene expectations in schools, • resources to support families in completing the return to school survey, • measures to limit the number of students in washrooms at any given time, • considerations related to the identification of isolation rooms in schools, • opportunities for synchronous and asynchronous learning to support student learning, • professional learning opportunities for teachers to support synchronous learning, • the Board is waiting for additional direction from the Ministry regarding synchronous learning expectations for each grade, • how classrooms are being arranged to support physical distancing, • fire drills and lock down exercises will continue, • synchronous learning will be supported through a variety of Board-supported platforms, • play areas will be separated to maximize physical distancing, • the reality of timetabling courses in an online environment and the fact that not all courses may be able to be offered, • the importance of ensuring collective agreements are upheld, • for the first several months, school facilities will be used only for student learning and not permitted, • how public health nurses will work with schools, • measures being put in place to ensure high air quality in buildings, • parents will be notified if children in a school are required to be tested for COVID-19, • actions being put in place to ensure marginalized groups continue to be connected and supported, • the possibility of Zoom being used to support student engagement activities, • additional funding for mental health supports for students,

Page 36 of 83 SPECIAL BOARD MEETING MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 5 August 5, 2020 ______

• supporting student and staff mental health and well-being continues to be a priority, • engagement with representatives from local public health, unions and mental health associations to support the development of Board programs and resources, • collaboration among members of the Senior Leadership Team to problem-solve, • feedback, received from over 27,000 families, is being used to inform reopening plans including program offerings and timetables, • guidance counsellors will be accessible to students online to provide advice, • travel time for students returning home after the first period is being taken into consideration for planning timetables, • online teachers will establish office hours for students, • families with siblings who attend the same school are being considered in the reopening of schools, • the Board will be engaging with parents who have children with Individual Education Plans (IEPs), • home screening, including temperature checks, is being promoted, • students will not be able to use lockers, • all staff will be trained on all of the Board’s required health and safety measures, • cohort limits will not include contact on buses and childcare, and • timelines to transition from online to face-to-face learning models.

Action Item: The outbreak protocol will be shared once it is finalized.

Action Item: A copy of the survey will be shared with trustees following the Board meeting.

Chair J. Nathan thanked staff for preparing a detailed report and for keeping families informed of the Board’s plan.

NEW MATHEMATICS CURRICULUM

Associate Director S. Reid shared;

• the updated Mathematics Curriculum is positive and welcomed, • challenges with the implementation timeline, • support and training being provided at the provincial level, • notable differences between the old and new mathematics curriculum including a focus on Financial Literacy and Coding, • provisions being put in place to support staff professional development on the new Mathematics Curriculum, • historically, school boards have been given one year to plan and prepare for changes to any curriculum, • professional learning will have to be done in September as the curriculum is

Page 37 of 83 SPECIAL BOARD MEETING MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 6 August 5, 2020 ______

being implemented, • the Board is waiting for Ministry resources to support implementation of the new curriculum, and • there are some new components such as the social and emotional learning in mathematical processes, student identity, and student interaction with mathematics.

At this time trustees engaged in in-depth discussion and shared;

• concerns about the implementation timeline, • challenges of planning for school reopening and the implementation of a new curriculum, • that teachers need time to create lessons and opportunities to engage in discussion regarding the interpretation of the curriculum, • logistical challenges about implementing curricular components, such as coding, without prior learning, • teachers will need to create new resources and learning strategies, • the importance of focusing on student and staff health and safety in September, and • support to advocate to the Ministry to share concerns about the timeline and request an extension.

Associate Director S. Reid highlighted that deep learning is best done when students are in a comfortable environment. For the new math curriculum, this represents challenges with the online learning and new models. The timing for implementation of the new Mathematics Curriculum will affect professional learning for teachers.

(*)2. Moved by B. McRoberts, seconded by E. Sinclair:

That, in accordance with Board Policy #203.0, Board Advocacy, the York Region District School Board approve the following recommendations.

1) That the Board Chair be authorized to send a letter to the Minister of Education outlining the impact of the release of a new Mathematics Curriculum on June 23, 2020 with an expectation that it be implemented for September 2020 amidst the Covid-19 pandemic.

2) That the following organizations or individuals be copied on the letter;

• Ontario Public School Boards’ Association, • all Members of Provincial Parliament in York Region, • Chairs of all public school boards in Ontario.

- Carried -

Page 38 of 83 SPECIAL BOARD MEETING MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 7 August 5, 2020 ______

AUTHORIZATION TO EXTEND THE BOARD MEETING PAST 11:00 P.M.

The Board Chair announced that in accordance with Section 2:01:05, of the York Region District School Board Operational By-Law, a motion is required, by recorded vote, to extend the meeting beyond 11:00 p.m.

(*)3. Moved by B. McRoberts, seconded by E. Sinclair:

That, in accordance with Section 2:01:05 of the York Region District School Board Operational By-Laws, the York Region District School Board authorize the Board Meeting be extended beyond 11:00 p.m. in order to conclude all remaining business on the agenda.

- Motion to Extend the Board Meeting Carried -

First Primary Amendment to the Main Motion

In considering the First Primary Amendment to the main motion, trustees engaged in discussion regarding;

• the need for professional development and learning resources provided for teachers, • current impact of the pandemic on the reopening of schools, and • the components of the new Mathematics Curriculum.

First primary amendment to the main motion moved by B. McRoberts, seconded by E. Sinclair:

That clause 2 be re-numbered 3 and the following language be added as clause 2.

2) That the letter include a request to delay the implementation of the new Mathematics Curriculum for one year.

- First Primary Amendment Carried -

- Main Motion, As Amended, Carried -

Page 39 of 83 SPECIAL BOARD MEETING MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 8 August 5, 2020 ______

Note: For clarity, the final resolution, as amended, reads as follows:

“That, in accordance with Board Policy #203.0, Board Advocacy, the York Region District School Board approve the following recommendations.

2) That the letter include a request to delay the implementation of the new Mathematics Curriculum for one year.

3) That the following organizations or individuals be copied on the letter;

• Ontario Public School Boards’ Association, • all Members of Provincial Parliament in York Region, • Chairs of all public school boards in Ontario.”

Board Chair J. Nathan thanked staff for preparing the report which has helped trustees to make an informed decision.

BILL 197, COVID-19 RECOVERY ACT, 2020 AND DIRECTOR QUALIFICATIONS

Board Chair J. Nathan highlighted that the Board report was prepared by staff to inform trustees regarding how Bill 197, COVID-19 Economic Recovery Act, 2020 changes the Education Act and Director Qualifications.

At this time, Director L. Sirisko highlighted;

• Bill 197 has received Royal Assent, • supervisory officer and teacher qualifications have been removed as requirements to qualify for the position of director of education, • over twenty directors of education will be retiring across the province of Ontario in the next several months, and • regulatory changes are forthcoming to support changes in director of education qualifications.

Trustees engaged in discussion regarding the changes which Bill 197 has introduced. They shared concerns;

• regarding the removal of the supervisory officer and teacher qualifications for the role of director of education, • that education should not be run like a private corporation,

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• about the timing of advocating to the Ministry, • about removing the requirement to understanding pedagogy for the role, • about the Bill being passed without input from school boards, and • on behalf of parents and other community members who have reached out.

(*)4. Moved by N. Mahmood, seconded by E. Sinclair:

That, in accordance with Board Policy #203.0, Board Advocacy, the York Region District School Board approve the following recommendations.

1) That the Board Chair be authorized to send a letter to the Minister of Education;

a) expressing concern with removing the requirement for Directors of Education to have Supervisory Officer and Ontario College of Teachers Qualifications, and

b) requesting that school boards, Ontario Public School Boards’ Association and the Council of Directors of Education have an opportunity to provide input into the development of associated regulation(s).

2) That the following organizations or individuals be copied on the letter;

• Ontario Public School Boards’ Association, • Council of Ontario Directors of Education, • all Members of Provincial Parliament in York Region, and • Chairs of all public school boards in Ontario.

In accordance with Section 2:05:07 of the York Region District School Board Operational By-Laws, a recorded vote was requested by Board Chair J. Nathan.

In Favour: Trustees C. Cordova, L. Gilbert, L. Hoeg, C. Liang, R. Lynn, N. Mahmood, B. McRoberts, J. Nathan, D. Sherman and E. Sinclair

Opposed: A. Tam

Absent: Trustee E. Terrell-Tracey

- Carried -

Page 41 of 83 SPECIAL BOARD MEETING MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 10 August 5, 2020 ______

ADJOURNMENT

(*)5. Moved by R. Lynn, seconded by L. Gilbert:

That the Special Board Meeting (Public Session) be adjourned at 11:23 p.m.

- Carried -

______Director of Education and Chair of the Board Secretary-Treasurer

Page 42 of 83 YORK REGION DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD SPECIAL BOARD MEETING MINUTES - PUBLIC SESSION AUGUST 25, 2020

The Special Board Meeting - Public Session of the York Region District School Board was held electronically and in person at 7:39 p.m. on Tuesday, August 25, 2020 with Chair J. Nathan (in person) presiding and the following trustee members present; C. Cordova, L. Gilbert (in person), L. Hoeg, C. Liang, R. Lynn (in person), B. McRoberts, N. Mahmood (in person), D. Sherman, E. Sinclair and A. Tam.

Also in Attendance: Student Trustees C. Lin, F. Nomerovsky and A. Wood

Authorized Absence: Trustee E. Terrell-Tracey

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

(*)1. Moved by R. Lynn, seconded by L. Gilbert:

That the agenda be approved as written.

- Carried -

DECLARATION OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST

RISE AND REPORT – AUGUST 25, 2020 BOARD MEETING – PRIVATE SESSION

Vice Chair C. Cordova noted that there were no decisions made in private session requiring ratification.

RATIFICATION OF TENTATIVE COLLECTIVE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE YORK REGION DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD AND CANADIAN UNION OF PUBLIC EMPLOYEES (CUPE) LOCAL 1196

Board Chair J. Nathan highlighted that the Board and Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) 1196 have reached a tentative collective agreement. The Board is required to ratify the tentative collective agreement by a recorded vote in keeping with the Operational By-Laws.

Page 43 of 83 SPECIAL BOARD MEETING MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 2 August 25, 2020 ______

(*)2. Moved by B. McRoberts, seconded by N. Mahmood:

That the York Region District School Board ratify the Tentative Local Collective Agreement between the Canadian Union of Public Employees Local 1196 and the York Region District School Board for the period September 1, 2019 to August 31, 2022.

In accordance with Section 3:05:07 of the York Region District School Board Operational By-Law a recorded vote was conducted.

In Favour: Trustees C. Cordova, L. Gilbert, L. Hoeg, C. Liang, R. Lynn, N. Mahmood, B. McRoberts, J. Nathan, D. Sherman, E. Sinclair and A. Tam

Opposed: None

Absent: Trustee E. Terrell-Tracey

- Carried Unanimously-

Board Chair J. Nathan thanked all staff on behalf of Trustees who were involved in the successful negotiation of the tentative collective agreement.

DIRECTOR’S INFORMATION REPORT

At this time, Director of Education L. Sirisko congratulated President P. Smith of Canadian Union for Public Employees (CUPE) Local 1196 and Superintendent of Human Resource Services and Chief Negotiator M. Loya for reaching a tentative collective agreement.

Director Sirisko made the following comments.

“Summer Learning

I would like to take a moment to update you on the summer learning that has taken place across our Board. While schools remain closed, we continued to offer credit and non-credit summer school program opportunities for elementary and secondary students.

Programs that ran this year included:

• elementary summer school; • summer school e-Learning which was a mix of synchronous and asynchronous learning; and • secondary summer school acceleration courses and credit recovery/ reinforcement courses.

Page 44 of 83 SPECIAL BOARD MEETING MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 3 August 25, 2020 ______

Programs were offered in a remote learning environment as a result of the school closures. We welcomed over 11,600 students into our remote elementary, secondary and e-Learning programs. Over 2,600 of these students opted for the e-Learning program. Given that we are in the middle of a pandemic, and the number of logistical and organizational challenges that this presented staff, these are strong enrolment numbers.

Hats off to the Continuing Education Services team and the programming that they coordinated in the midst of such uncertainty and shortened timelines.

Government of Ontario Announcement: Racism and Inequity in Schools

In July, the Ontario government announced changes to the education system to help break down barriers for Black, Indigenous and racialized students and provide all students with an equal opportunity to succeed.

Through Bill 197, COVID-19 Economic Recovery Act, 2020, the government proposes to eliminate discretionary suspensions for students from kindergarten to Grade 3, beginning this September 2020. Serious offences will still be subject to mandatory suspensions. Starting in September 2021, the government will begin the process of ending Grade 9 streaming into applied and academic courses. As part of its plan to end early streaming, the government will introduce a new foundational Grade 9 mathematics course for September 2021 and will work with school boards as they transition students into a de-streamed Grade 9 mathematics program.

To ensure students feel accepted in the classroom, the government will strengthen sanctions for teachers who engage in behaviour of a racist nature. The Ministry of Education has also proposed additional anti-racism and anti-discrimination resources and training before the end of the year. The province has committed to working with all school boards to ensure more identity-based data collection to monitor the implementation and success of these initiatives.”

At this time, Director Sirisko shared an update on work occurring in the York Region District School Board to stamp out anti-Black racism. She highlighted;

• the engagement of Turner Consulting to lead the development of an Anti-Black Racism Strategy, • a survey has been sent to the community to collect input and elevate the voices of black staff, families and students, • results from the survey will be used to inform the Anti-Black Racism Strategy, • a working group is developing a text selection tool that ensures classroom resources are culturally responsive,

Page 45 of 83 SPECIAL BOARD MEETING MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 4 August 25, 2020 ______

• curriculum focused on anti-Black racism is being developed to support educators, progress of a working group that examined incidents of anti-Black racism and how data will be collected to identify trends and needs, and • information regarding the Board’s partnership with York Regional Police will be brought to a future Board Standing Committee meeting.

REOPENING STRATEGY 2020-2021

Director L. Sirisko welcomed Dr. R. Gould, Associate Medical Officer of Health for the Region of York.

Dr. Gould shared information about York Region Public Health’s advice with regard to health and safety for the reopening of schools and the wearing of masks by students. He highlighted;

• the findings of the SickKids COVID-19: Guidance for School Reopening, • recommendations from the World Health Organization and other Infectious Disease experts, • increased risk of exposure to viruses associated with mandating the wearing of masks for children in kindergarten to Grade 3 who may be unable to properly don and doff masks, • younger children are at less risk of contracting and transmitting COVID-19, • the ability of families to decide if their child(ren) in kindergarten to Grade 3 are able to appropriately wear masks, and • advice of public health may change over time.

In response to trustee questions, Dr. Gould shared;

• public health advice has shifted throughout the pandemic based on new and emerging information and needs, • the risks and benefits of requiring young children to wear masks, • transmission of COVID-19 to young children is from close family members, • public health is continuously assessing the pandemic, • it is important for parents to teach their children how to properly don, doff, wear and store masks, • the process of notifying families when a child has been exposed to a communicable disease, • advice from public health when an individual has been exposed to the virus in order to limit further exposure, • the importance of parents doing daily screening and keeping their child(ren) home if they are symptomatic, • provincial capacity for COVID-19 testing, • how contact tracing is managed by public health, • an outbreak protocol is being developed,

Page 46 of 83 SPECIAL BOARD MEETING MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 5 August 25, 2020 ______

• more public health nurses are being hired to support schools, • requirements for parent consent prior to testing, • smaller class sizes reduce the risk of exposure, • how siblings will be addressed and when a student may return to school following exposure or a positive COVID-19 test, • the importance of ensuring personal privacy is maintained when notifying the public of possible exposure, and • experiences from other jurisdictions who have reopened schools.

Director L. Sirisko thanked Dr. Gould for sharing information on behalf of York Region Public Health.

REOPENING STRATEGY

Director L. Sirisko highlighted the significant amount of work and problem solving that went into the development of the Board’s reopening strategy. She shared;

• the Ministry requirement for children to resume learning, • mental health impacts on staff and students, • the fact that many family members are required to return to work, • incidents of anxiety and depression have increased for students and staff, • all possible health and safety measures must be put in place to make schools and workplaces safe when the system reopens, • guidance from Ministry of Education who have partnered with Ministry of Health, • the Board has engaged in collaborative planning with other school boards in Ontario, • feedback from staff and families is being used to inform planning, • students will be placed in small cohorts to support contact tracing and limit exposure to the virus, • the importance of ensuring the Board continues to comply with collective agreements, • a focus on strong instructional practices and pedagogy, • opportunities to identify staffing efficiencies, • outdoor spaces will be utilized weather permitting, and • online learning will be synchronous.

Director L. Sirisko expressed gratitude to the planning team and trustees for putting the health and safety of staff and students at the forefront of all decision making. Additionally, she sincerely thanked families for providing feedback to support the development of plans in this unprecedented time.

Page 47 of 83 SPECIAL BOARD MEETING MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 6 August 25, 2020 ______

Associate Director S. Reid referenced a presentation on the Board’s Reopening Strategy provided to the Board of Trustees on August 5, 2020. He outlined extensive work has occurred since that time. Associate Director Reid;

• acknowledged collaboration with stakeholders including unions and federation partners and representatives from public health, • noted registration forms were sent to families, • referenced a 93 per cent response rate from families, • outlined staffing is being finalized, • reviewed efficiencies to lower elementary class sizes • shared an example of an elementary class timetable, • identified opportunities for transition between face-to-face and online learning at designated times throughout the school year, and • provided an overview of teacher professional learning to support re-entry.

With regard to the Secondary Adaptive Model, staff shared;

• an example of a secondary student timetable, • how interaction between cohorts will be minimized, • the rationale for selecting the Adaptive Model included the pedagogical benefits and the ability to minimize health and safety risks, • mental health supports and resources being developed to support students, • technology that will support student collaboration in the online, synchronous learning environment, • the Board will continue to provide students with technology and internet connectivity, where required, and • information about study hall.

Staff outlined how the Elementary Virtual School will be staffed.

Special education supports will continue to be provided to students including those in the non-credit bearing credit classroom. Where required, alternative curriculum is being developed and special education transportation will continue to be provided.

Additional funding has been provided to support the mental health and well-being of students for return to school which includes the hiring of additional social workers.

Associate Director C. La Touche provided an update on health and safety and human resources measures, including;

• medical masks, face shields and gowns will be provided to all staff, • the promotion of hand hygiene and pre-screening of students and staff prior to attending school or work, • information expected from the Province regarding outbreak protocols,

Page 48 of 83 SPECIAL BOARD MEETING MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 7 August 25, 2020 ______

• the establishment of isolation rooms at each school, • lessons learned from other jurisdictions to support safe reentry, • the ability for the Board to quickly respond to an outbreak which could include the closing of schools, • safe transportation of students to and/or from school, • measures to ensure the mental health and well-being of staff is supported, • how staff accommodation and sick leave requests are being addressed, and • collaboration with union and federation partners.

Director L. Sirisko reinforced the Boards commitment to all students and staff.

Board Chair J. Nathan thanked staff for the dedicated efforts in developing a comprehensive plan to safely open schools in September.

In response to trustee questions, staff shared;

• the Ministry is being asked to clarify how final exams are to be handled, • guidance counsellors are working diligently to finalize timetables in this new context, • there will be a principal dedicated to online learning, • attendance of students will be taken daily, • students and staff are encouraged to stay on property, • a dedicated study hall will be established to support students who need access to internet, • cohorting will be maintained, • school bus drivers will be conducting daily self-assessment for symptoms, • the Reopening Plan has been approved by the Ministry, • only Board-provided hand sanitizers will be permitted in schools and workplaces, • every classroom will have hand sanitizer and dedicated areas of the school will have sanitation points, • students will be encouraged to regularly wash their hands, • ventilation systems have been audited and upgrades have been made to ensure clean air in buildings, • how information is being communicated to staff and families, • reasons why staff or students may be exempt from wearing masks, • the Board’s commitment to responding to incidents of discrimination and/or hate,

Page 49 of 83 SPECIAL BOARD MEETING MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 8 August 25, 2020 ______

AUTHORIZATION TO EXTEND THE BOARD MEETING PAST 11:00 P.M.

(*)3. Moved by B. McRoberts, seconded by R. Lynn:

That, in accordance with Section 2:01:05 of the York Region District School Board Operational By-Law, the York Region District School Board authorize the Board Meeting be extended beyond 11:00 p.m. in order to conclude all remaining business on the agenda.

- Carried -

In accordance with Section 2:01:05 of the York Region District School Board Operational By-Laws a recorded vote was conducted.

In Favour: Trustees C. Cordova, L. Gilbert, L. Hoeg, C. Liang, R. Lynn, N. Mahmood, B. McRoberts, J. Nathan, D. Sherman, E. Sinclair and A. Tam

Opposed: None

Absent: Trustee E. Terrell-Tracey

- Carried -

• details regarding the ability of the Board to offer optional programs, • extracurricular activities will not be permitted at this time but will be revisited in the future, • mental health resources available to students to support a smooth transition, • the delayed start to the school year until September 10, to support the transition of staff to the new learning model(s), • estimated costs to hire additional teachers, • how synchronous learning will be supported, • the creative use of all available spaces in school buildings to support physical distancing, • in the event a school musts be closed, learning will continue online, • program offerings online will be informed by family survey data, and • accommodation requests will be considered and some staff continue to work from home.

Page 50 of 83 SPECIAL BOARD MEETING MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 9 August 25, 2020 ______

FORECAST OF EXPENDITURES RELATED TO SCHOOL RE-OPENING

Chief Financial Officer V. Maharaj highlighted;

• the 2020-2021 Budget was approved on June 30, 2020 based on known information at the time, • estimated impacts resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic on the 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 budgets, • financial statements will be presented to the Board in November 2020 and will include costs incurred to support the Learning and Caring Plan from March to June 2020, • the cost to purchase Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and materials required to ensure the health and safety of staff and students for the beginning of September was $10 million which impacts the 2019-2020 budget, • Ministry funding for student transportation and air filtration, • school boards have been authorized to utilize up to two per cent of reserve funds to support reopening, as needed, • school boards are requesting clarity around whether the government will be covering the cost of PPE, and • additional, estimated costs such as employee sick leave, occasional staff, software licensing, additional teachers, technology, student transportation.

In response to trustee questions, staff clarified;

• how staff calculated the cost estimate for the purchase of PPE and other health and safety provisions to support a safe return to work and school, • how other school boards may have calculated costs, • the Board is using suppliers identified by the Ministry of Government and Consumer Services or through the Board’s purchasing services department to ensure adequate resources for the beginning of the year, • financial risk to the Board for the cost of PPE, • the purpose of providing quarterly financial reports to trustees, • there was no way of knowing what the financial risk would be prior to the Ministry announcing how much reserve funds the Board could utilize, • costs associated with software licensing to support synchronous learning, and • platforms available to students and teachers to support online learning.

Action Item: Information regarding reopening costs of other school boards will be provided to trustees.

Page 51 of 83 SPECIAL BOARD MEETING MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 10 August 25, 2020 ______

Advocacy: School Reopening Costs

Trustees discussed the importance of making the Ministry of Education aware of the costs associated with a safe reopening. They agreed to advocate, on behalf of the board and members of the public, for additional funding to support estimated costs and to ensure sufficient staff resources to ensure class sizes remain low.

(*)4. Moved by L. Gilbert, seconded by D. Sherman:

That, in accordance to Board Policy #203.0, Board Advocacy, the York Region District School Board approve the following recommendations.

1. That the Board Chair be authorized to send a letter to the Minister of Education sharing concerns and feedback about school reopening from families and staff and outlining forecasted expenditures related to school reopening and request additional funding to support these costs.

2. That the following organizations or individuals be copied on the letter;

• Ontario School Board’s Association • All members of Provincial Parliament in York Region and • Chairs of all public school boards in Ontario

- Carried -

Board Chair J. Nathan thanked staff for preparing a comprehensive report which has helped trustees to understand the financial impacts of COVID-19 on the Board.

ADJOURNMENT

(*)5. Moved by R. Lynn, seconded by N. Mahmood:

That the Special Board Meeting (Public Session) be adjourned at 12:08 p.m.

- Carried -

______Director of Education and Chair of the Board Secretary-Treasurer

Page 52 of 83 ROUTINE

YORK REGION DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD

POLICY AND BY-LAW COMMITTEE MINUTES July 6, 2020

The Policy and By-Law Committee meeting of Monday, July 6, 2020 commenced electronically at 4:33 p.m. with the following trustee members and resource staff present; Trustees C. Cordova, L. Gilbert, L. Hoeg, R. Lynn, B. McRoberts (Committee Chair), J. Nathan and A. Tam, Director of Education L. Sirisko, Manager, Corporate Secretariat and Trustee Services L. Reinhardt, Assistant Manager, Corporate Policy S. Lynn, and Administrative Assistant A. Ballard

Also in attendance: Student Trustees M. Chou and N. Hamzea

Regrets: Assistant Manager, Corporate Communications D. Clayden

Absent: Trustee E. Sinclair

CALL TO ORDER

Policy and By-Law Committee Chair B. McRoberts called the meeting to order at 4:33 p.m. and welcomed members to the meeting.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

(*)1. Moved by A. Tam, seconded by R. Lynn:

That the agenda be approved as written.

- Carried -

DECLARATION OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST

Policy Chair B. McRoberts asked any trustee who has a direct personal interest or direct or indirect pecuniary interest in any matter being discussed by the committee to state their conflict and the nature thereof. No conflicts were declared by trustees at this time.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING

(*)2. Moved by A. Tam, seconded by L. Hoeg:

That the minutes of the June 2, 2020 Policy and By-Law Committee meeting be approved as written.

- Carried -

Page 53 of 83 POLICY AND BY-LAW COMMITTEE MEETING PAGE 2 July 6, 2020 ______

DISCUSSION ITEMS

Policies for Review in 2021

Director of Education L. Sirisko, Manager, Corporate Secretariat and Trustee Services L. Reinhardt and Assistant Manager, Corporate Policy S. Lynn were in attendance for discussion of this item. Director Sirisko highlighted the process and timelines in which trustees identify and review policies and the 2021 schedule planning process.

Note: Trustee J. Nathan entered the meeting at 4:38 p.m.

Assistant Manager, Corporate Policy S. Lynn highlighted the policy review process for the policies scheduled in 2021. She addressed the trustees’ role as policy makers, historical content, alignment with the Multi-Year Strategic Plan, the cyclical review strategy and cycles, the process of collecting feedback and factors which influence policy development and timelines. S. Lynn noted Policy #285.0, Policies, Procedures and Supporting Documents establishes the framework for policy and procedure review in the Board.

S. Lynn outlined that some procedures are not associated with a Board policy. The review and consolidation strategy approved by the Board of Trustees in 2018 attempts to minimize the number of No-Policy (NP) procedure by consolidating all NP procedures under an appropriate policy.

S. Lynn clarified Policy #610.0, Reporting Children in Need of Protection was reviewed in 2018, in response to legislative changes. The policy is currently scheduled for review in 2022. It was noted that policies can be updated at any time, out of cycle, to respond to legislative changes and other system needs.

In response to a trustee question, Manager, Corporate Secretariat and Trustee Services L. Reinhardt indicated NP procedures can be reviewed at any time in order to support system needs.

Action Item: Staff will investigate the status of several identified NP procedures and make necessary changes to support system needs, as required.

Action Item: Staff will review how policies are communicated on the Board website and identify ways to support public understanding.

Page 54 of 83 POLICY AND BY-LAW COMMITTEE MEETING PAGE 3 July 6, 2020 ______

(*)3. Moved by R. Lynn, seconded by L. Hoeg:

That, as approved at the May 7, 2019 Policy and By-Law Committee and June 3, 2019 2019 Board meeting, the Policy and By-Law Committee reaffirm its decision to schedule the next review of Policy #680.0, Student Transportation in 2022.

- Carried -

Assistant Manager, Corporate Policy S. Lynn clarified the rationale to defer the review of several policies to 2021 and 2022. Trustees agreed to leave the Staff Members who are Candidates for/or Elected to Public Office on the 2021 review cycle.

(*)4. Moved by L. Hoeg, seconded by R. Lynn:

That the Policy and By-Law Committee approve the request to defer review of Policy#103.0, Awards to 2021.

- Carried -

(*)5. Moved by A. Tam, seconded by R. Lynn:

That the Policy and By-Law Committee approve the request to defer review of the following policies to 2022.

• Policy #422.0, Facility Partnerships, • Policy #610.0, Reporting Children in Need of Protection, • Policy #620.0, Community Involvement Hours and • New Policy, Employee Leaves and Absences.

- Carried -

Board Governance: Review and Policy Consolidation Strategy

Director of Education L. Sirisko and Manager, Corporate Secretariat and Trustee Services L. Reinhardt were in attendance for the Board Governance: Review and Policy Consolidation Strategy. Director Sirisko noted this is an extensive and complex deep dive review and it is a unique opportunity for trustees to consider how the Board manages policies, procedures and supporting documents, review other jurisdictional practices and to be creative in setting future Board policy.

Assistant Manager, Corporate Policy S. Lynn highlighted Policy #285.0, Policies, Procedures and Supporting Documents and the process of creating and aligning information when developing policies, procedures and supporting documents. She highlighted the

Page 55 of 83 POLICY AND BY-LAW COMMITTEE MEETING PAGE 4 July 6, 2020 ______cyclical review process, growing policy needs, the introduction of policy consolidation and deep dives, shifting Board priorities and the consultation process. She noted the introduction of the Equity Strategy Steering and Action Committee (ESSAC) which ensures equity, inclusivity and accessibility is taken into consideration when developing policy.

S. Lynn provided insight into policy development and review processes used by other school boards which include;

• all school boards work to present policies in a clear, concise and easy to understand format, • the use of infographics, • incorporating their belief statement as their guiding principles, • extensive background research and information to report findings prior to developing policy, • alternative development policy methods, • robust stakeholder consultation processes, • four-year or five-year review cycles, • specific templates and formats, and • governance and policy committees combined under one umbrella.

Committee Chair B. McRoberts thanked S. Lynn for the overview. B. McRoberts noted for trustees some questions, language updates and formatting to consider on the Policies, Procedures and Supporting Documents policy.

A trustee noted the importance of considering the structure of policy committees at other school boards and how to ensure policies are accessible and easy to navigate.

Action Item: Director of Education L. Sirisko noted the Board is on track to launch the new Board website and Communications will showcase the new website for trustees this fall.

Assistant Manager, Corporate Policy S. Lynn outlined the difference between the Board Governance Review Committee and the Policy and By-Law Committee. Board Chair J. Nathan outlined the rationale for keeping the two committees separate.

Action Item: A discussion on the possible amalgamation of the Policy and By-Law and Board Governance Review Committees will be scheduled at a future Board Governance Review Committee meeting.

INFORMATION ITEMS

There were no information items presented at this time.

Page 56 of 83 POLICY AND BY-LAW COMMITTEE MEETING PAGE 5 July 6, 2020 ______

ADJOURNMENT

The next scheduled Policy and By-Law Committee meeting is September 15, 2020.

(*)6. Moved by L. Gilbert, seconded by A. Tam:

That the Policy and By-Law Committee meeting be adjourned at 5:35 p.m.

- Carried -

Page 57 of 83 Page 58 of 83

YORK REGION DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD

CHAIR’S COMMITTEE MINUTES

MEETING #1 (PUBLIC) August 25, 2020

The public session of the Chair’s Committee meeting was held electronically and in person at 4:52 p.m. on Tuesday, August 25, 2020 with the following committee members and resource staff present:

C. Cordova L. Gilbert (in person) B. McRoberts J. Nathan (Chair) (in person) S. Reid L. Reinhardt (in person) L. Sirisko (in person)

Also in attendance: Trustees L. Hoeg, R. Lynn (in person), E. Sinclair and A. Tam, Student Trustee A. Wood, Senior Manager, Corporate Communications L. Miguelo and Assistant Manager, Corporate Secretariat and Trustee Services R. Fogah-Foster

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

(*)1. Moved by C. Cordova, seconded by B. McRoberts:

The agenda was approved, as written.

- Carried -

DECLARATION OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST

Board Chair J. Nathan asked any trustee who has a direct personal interest or direct or indirect pecuniary interest in any matter being discussed at the meeting to state their conflict and the nature thereof. No conflicts were declared at this time.

Page 59 of 83 CHAIR’S COMMITTEE MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 2 August 25, 2020

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

(*)2. Moved by B. McRoberts, seconded by L. Gilbert:

That the minutes of the June 22, 2020 Chair’s Committee meeting be approved as written.

- Carried -

BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES

The committee received for information the Business Arising Report outlining the status of action items from the June 22, 2020 Chair’s Committee meeting.

DISCUSSION ITEMS

Meetings of the Board of Trustees (Appendix 1)

Board Chair J. Nathan noted that the report prepared by staff provided an overview of the considerations for ensuring that the meetings of the Board continue and are accessible to the public.

Trustees R. Lynn expressed agreement for phased approach to trustee in person attendance, limiting numbers, wearing personal protective equipment and ensuring physical distancing is maintained.

In Phase One, only four trustees will be physically present at Board, Board Standing and Budget Committee meetings with the Director of Education, Associate Directors of Education and parliamentary support.

Action Item: Staff will support trustees to determine technology requirements in order for trustees to participate in meetings.

INFORMATION ITEMS

Renewal of the Ontario Public School Boards' Association Membership Fee 2020- 2021

The correspondence was received for information. The cost of the membership is within budget and was submitted for payment to the Accounting Services department. (Appendix 2)

Page 60 of 83 CHAIR’S COMMITTEE MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 3 August 25, 2020

Call for Nominations for Ontario Public School Boards' Association Elected Positions 2020-2021

Board Chair J. Nathan encouraged trustees who were interested in running for an elected position should submit their nomination papers by the deadline. The correspondence was received for information. (Appendix 3)

Correspondence from the Human Rights Commission regarding COVID-19: Respecting the rights of students with disabilities

The correspondence was received for information. (Appendix 4)

Correspondence from the Halton District School Board to the Minister of Education regarding Build Back Better Task Force

The correspondence was received for information. (Appendix 5)

Correspondence from Ontario School Library Association regarding Ensuring Student Success Through Access to School Libraries

The correspondence was received for information. (Appendix 6)

Correspondence from the Elementary Teacher’s Federation of Ontario regarding the Implementation of the New Mathematics Curriculum

The correspondence was received for information. (Appendix 7)

Correspondence from the Halton District School Board to the Minister of Education regarding back to school planning

The correspondence was received for information. (Appendix 8)

Correspondence from the Rainbow District School Board to the Minister of Education regarding back to school planning and funding concerns

The correspondence was received for information. (Appendix 9)

Pending Items List

Board Chair J. Nathan shared that the Pending Items List (PIL) outlines upcoming agenda items scheduled at public meetings of the Board. No comments or input was received by trustees at this time

Page 61 of 83 CHAIR’S COMMITTEE MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 4 August 25, 2020

DECISION ITEM

Trustee Conference Requests (Appendix 10)

Board Chair J. Nathan highlighted two conference requests from trustees requiring approval in accordance with the Trustee Services policy and procedure.

(*)3. Moved by B. McRoberts, seconded by L. Gilbert:

That, in accordance with Policy and Procedure #220.0, Trustee Services, the York Region District School Board approve the following recommendations.

1. That Trustee E. Terrell-Tracey be approved to participate in the online webinar Daring To Do: Anti-Racist Practices to Change Education Now – Moving Beyond Awareness to Accountability, Action and Alignment.

2. That Trustee E. Sinclair be approved to participate in Life Coach Training.

- Carried -

Board Meeting Agenda - Tuesday, September 15, 2020

In response to a trustee question, Board Chair J. Nathan provided clarification with regard to the number of trustees who are members of Chair’s Committee in accordance with the York Region District School Board Operational By-Law.

She indicated that any changes to the agenda will be shared with members of Chair’s Committee for information.

(*)4. Moved by B. McRoberts, seconded by L. Gilbert:

That the agenda for the June 2, 2020 Board meeting (Public Session) be approved, as written.

- Carried -

Page 62 of 83 CHAIR’S COMMITTEE MINUTES – PUBLIC SESSION PAGE 5 August 25, 2020

ADJOURNMENT

(*)5. Moved by L. Gilbert, seconded by B. McRoberts:

That the Chair’s Committee (Public Session) be adjourned at 5:12 p.m.

- Carried -

August 25, 2020

For further information, please contact the Board Chair, Manager, Corporate Secretariat and Trustee Services or the Director of Education.

Page 63 of 83 Page 64 of 83

Information Report

Subject: YRDSB Reopening Strategy 2020-2021

Contact(s): Steven Reid, Associate Director of Education, Schools and Programs Clayton La Touche, Associate Director of Education, Schools and Operations

Department(s): Education and Community Services

Meeting Date: September 15, 2020

Purpose

To provide updated information regarding York Region District School Board’s (YRDSB’s) reopening strategy for the 2020-2021 school year.

Background

On September 1, 2020, YRDSB elementary and secondary school calendars commenced. September 1 - 3 were designated as Professional Activity (PA) Days for all schools. This year, YRDSB delayed the start of student attendance at school to give school staff time to prepare for students’ return. For the first few days of school, schools welcomed students back in smaller groups to give them additional time to learn and practice new health and safety measures, and to support their transition back to school after the school closures. This report provides updated information, building upon the August 25, 2020 Information Report, Reopening Strategy 2020-2021.

Connection to Multi-Year Strategic Plan

PRIORITY: The reopening strategy is connected to all of the Board priorities and the Multi-Year Strategic Plan.

Page 65 of 83 GOAL: This report demonstrates our continued commitment to the YRDSB Learning and Caring Plan as Ontario reopens schools across the province. The implementation of YRDSB’s reopening plan will be shared with staff, students, parents, education partners and the community in response to the direction given by the Minister of Health and the Minister of Education.

Reopening Strategy

The reopening strategy continues to be informed by the Ministry of Education, York Region Public Health and the York Region District School Board Joint Consultation Table which has representation from each of the district’s union and federation partners, York Region - Ontario Principals’ Council (YR-OPC) and senior leadership.

The finalization of details and protocols in this report will continue to be refined based on direction from the Ministry of Education, health and safety considerations or other factors that must be considered. Staff will provide updates to the Board of Trustees, staff, students and families throughout the 2020-2021 school year.

This report is structured with the following subtitles:

Program

● Supported Entry ● Student and Staff Mental Health ● Teaching and Learning Models ● Professional Learning ● Special Education

Operations

● Health and Safety ● Budget Implications ● Student Transportation ● Communications Plan ● Human Resources

PROGRAM

Teaching and Learning Models

YRDSB offered a supported entry for elementary and secondary students to assist students and staff in the commencement of school during the COVID-19 pandemic. Students were provided with opportunities to practice and understand new health and safety practices to promote a secure entry into the new school year. For YRDSB virtual schools, students focused on online safety and ways to engage in synchronous and asynchronous learning.

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The following specifics for each model were focused on to promote a successful entry to school:

Kindergarten: Face-to-Face For September 2020, a responsive supported entry model, adapted from Board Procedure NP #109.0, Kindergarten Supported Entry and Extended Day was created to support Year 1 and 2 Kindergarten learners’ transition to school within the face-to- face model.

The plan ● Re-established the relationship and routines for Year 2 learners who have experienced disrupted learning between March and June 2020 ● Promoted relationship building and active school participation of Year 1 and Year 2 learners in Kindergarten programming ● Supported a staggered entry process for Year 1 learners ● Ensured that students’ well-being, health and safety are supported ● Promoted equity of access and outcomes for all Kindergarten students.

All Year 2 students who chose face-to-face learning (including Years 2 in SK/1 classrooms) and all Kindergarten students in Community Classes attended full-days on September 10 and 11, 2020. Half of Year 1 students attended the full day on September 14 and 16, 2020 and the other half on September 15 and 17, 2020.

Grades 1 - 8: Face-to-Face Students were divided into two groups by last name alphabetically and attended school on alternate days for the first four days starting Thursday, September 10 or Friday, September 11, 2020. All students in a community class, with the exception of gifted community classes, started attending every day beginning on September 10. Students in gifted community classes attend in cohorted groups. This supported entry allowed for the establishment of routines and an opportunity to reinforce newly introduced health and safety protocols.

Grades 9 - 12: Adaptive In the context of the COVID-19 Adaptive School Model, Grade 9 Transition Day activities were designed as part of the supported re-entry plan. Staff focused on establishing learning communities within each classroom and supporting students by; ● engaging in guided school tours, ● meeting school administration and school department staff, ● meeting students who are in their period 1 cohort to establish safe and inclusive communities, ● recognizing experiences through COVID-19 and considering their mental health and well-being, and ● introducing school routines, including timetables, digital learning platforms and protocols.

Page 67 of 83 Using the Adaptive Model, Grade 9 cohorts attended separately on September 10 and 11, 2020. In the afternoons of each day, Grade 9 students moved through a condensed schedule of periods 2-4 online. Students were invited into the digital learning spaces and continued to develop safe spaces and build community within their digital learning spaces. Staff have also supported students with the further familiarization of their afternoon schedules, and additional information about course- specific learning environments, supports and digital tools.

Students in Grades 10-12 attended online classes in the afternoons of September 10 and 11, 2020 following a compressed four-period schedule of 35 minutes each period. During this time staff engaged students to develop social inclusion through; ● community-building activities to develop safe and inclusive online learning communities, ● familiarization and supportive access to digital learning platforms and course tools, ● acknowledgement and recognizing of experiences through COVID-19 and considering their mental health and well-being, and ● introducing course outlines.

Following the supported entry and transition days on Thursday, September 10 and Friday, September 11, 2020 for grades 9-12, all secondary school students will begin the rotation of Block 1 courses.

Course Rotation over Semester 1

Rotation 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 Sept 14 Sept 28 Oct 13 Oct 27 Nov 10 Nov 27 Dec 15 Jan 14 Sept 25 Oct 9 Octo 26 Nov 9 Nov 26 Dec 14 Jan 13 Jan 29 In Person 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 Block

Synchronous 2 1 4 3 2 1 4 3 Block2 Synchronous 3 3 1 1 3 3 1 1 Block3 Synchronous 4 4 2 2 4 4 2 2 Block4

Virtual Schools: Kindergarten to Grade 8 Parents/guardians and students were provided with an orientation to the elementary virtual school on Thursday, September 10 and Friday, September 11, 2020. The first day focused on school operations and the second centred on curriculum, assessment and pedagogical approaches. Videos and information related to the orientation provided on both days are posted on the Board website and are available for viewing here.

Page 68 of 83 In preparation for the first day of learning in the virtual school, staff were provided with a variety of synchronous and asynchronous professional learning opportunities ranging from a step-by-step guide for setting up a learning platform, to teaching a particular subject on-line.

Over the last few weeks, YRDSB has hired or transferred over 1,000 teachers to support the elementary virtual school and these class assignments are being finalized. Some students may not have had an assigned teacher or a virtual environment developed by Monday, September 14, 2020. As a result, resources were prepared by division (i.e., Kindergarten, Primary, Junior, Intermediate) that parents could access through the temporary Elementary Virtual School Activities website. The posted activities are age-appropriate. Families are expected to receive more information before Wednesday, September 16, 2020.

Virtual: Grades 9 - 12 Grade 9 Transition Day occurred in the Secondary Virtual School (SVS) on September 10, 2020. The transition program was an integral component of a supported entry to provide assistance to students new to highschool. Staff focused on establishing learning communities within each classroom and supporting students by; ● meeting other students within each of their classes to establish safe and inclusive communities, ● providing an opportunity to meet teachers, staff and become familiar with how to access staff supports within the SVS, ● recognizing experiences through COVID-19 and considering the mental health and well-being of each student, and ● introducing school routines, including timetables, digital learning platforms and protocols.

The supported entry program for students in Grades 10-12 began in the afternoon of September 10, 2020. Staff prioritized social inclusion and community building activities that supported the familiarization of the online platform, digital tools and available support. Staff also recognized student experiences and engaged in conversations about mental health, well-being and available resources.

The SVS is providing courses to approximately 8300 students in Grades 9 through 12 for a total of 32000 course selections across 1277 course sections. Courses are supported in all subject areas and departments, and across all secondary pathways. Given the small number of some course requests after scheduling, not every course was able to be accommodated.

Page 69 of 83 Specialized and Pathway Programming Offered

■ Personalized Alternative Education ■ Cooperative Education ■ French Immersion programming in Grades 9 -12 ■ All Secondary Special Education programs including 16 Credit and Non- Credit bearing Community Class programs ■ Cooperative Education (Co-op)

Optional Courses

Running Not Running: due to unique challenges with scheduling and enrolment

■ Arts Programming in Visual ■ Arts Programming in Dance and Music Arts and Drama ( 9 - 12) ■ IB programming in Grades 11 and 12 ■ International Student Programming is supported ■ IB programming in Grades 9 and 10

Virtual Family Meetings (Grades 9-12) The SVS will be hosting “Virtual Welcome to Secondary Virtual School” meetings within the next two weeks. Families will be introduced to the school, the programs, supports for students and families. Separate meetings will be planned for families of students in community class programs (date to be determined) and International students (September 17 at 9 pm to accommodate time zones).

Special Education Supporting students with special education needs in all models continues to be a priority for YRDSB. The following list outlines updates to the supports put in place to help students, families and staff: ● Community Classes, including Gifted Community, have been formed in both EVS and SVS; a teacher with Special Education Qualifications has been assigned to each class ● Educational Assistants have been assigned to certain virtual Community Classes ● Developing Testing Centres for students who have opted to learn virtually but require some in-person assessments from one of our Regulated Health Professionals ● Multiple kits of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for each member of Student Services ● Clear Masks provided to all staff supporting students who are deaf and hard of hearing and also for Regulated Health Professional staff who require these masks to conduct valid assessments (SLP, Psychology, PT/OT, Social Work)

Page 70 of 83 Student and Staff Mental Health Fostering well-being and mental health was highlighted during the commencement of the new school year and continues to be a priority for YRDSB. The following actions, supports and resources have been implemented or are in development since the last reopening strategy information report: ● Hired five additional Social Workers to support student Mental Health ● Rolled out the Professional Development and Resources to support the return to school on the PA day, September 1, 2020, with opportunities for follow-up on September 8 and 9, 2020 ● Social workers and psychologists are accepting new referrals for learners who are both online and in-person ● Virtual therapeutic groups are being developed across schools and between virtual and in-person learners

Professional Learning A variety of virtual offerings have been developed and provided to support educators’ professional learning. A foundational component of each session includes the creation of effective learning opportunities and environments for face-to-face and/or virtual settings.

● How to write an Independent Education Plan (IEP) to reflect both an online and an in-person learning environment ● IEP Writing Drop-In Sessions ● Supporting Community Classes online ● Developing Social Skills in any context ● Determining Starting Points for Learning in Elementary Classrooms ● Getting Started with Kindergarten: September 2020 ● Teaching French Second Language (FSL) in an Online Learning Environment ● Introduction to Desire2Learn (D2L) Brightspace ● Introduction to Google Classroom ● Google Classroom 2.0 (follow up to the introductory session) ● Synchronous and Asynchronous Teaching Practices ● Tips for Teaching - Using Google Meet Effectively with Students ● Pedagogical Considerations for Remote and Adaptive Learning ● Co-op and Alternative Learning Experience Program (ALEP) (Secondary) Considerations for Adaptive and Virtual Learning in Experiential Programs ● Outdoor Learning Modules ● Arts Educators: “We’ve Got This.” ● Supporting Math Learning in a Remote Learning Environment ● Ontario’s New Math Curriculum. Starting with the Number Strand

Professional Activity Days: School-based, non-school based, casual and occasional teaching staff participated in mandatory professional learning and training on the professional activity days (September 1, 2 and 3). The primary focus for the learning and training was on topics related to safely restarting the school year, ensuring the safety of staff, students and the broader community, and the delivery of high-quality education for

Page 71 of 83 all learners. Each day was designed to be completed as a self-directed, on-demand online module/s or a live virtual meeting. Each employee group had different requirements related to which learning and training was required for completion.

The following is a list of topics covered over the three Professional Activity Days:

● COVID-19 Return to Work and Health and Safety Protocols ● Student and Staff Mental Health and Well-being ● Understanding Return to Work Operating Procedures in School/Workplace ● Compliance Training ● Human Rights Introduction ● Creating Anti-Racist Learning Environments During COVID-19 ● Creating Anti-Racist Workplace Environments During COVID-19 ● Elementary: Exploring the New Math Curriculum ● Secondary: Exploring Comprehensive Math Programs

OPERATIONS

YRDSB worked with Public Health to review procedures that promoted safe learning opportunities and learning spaces for students. Educators welcomed students back to class face-to-face or online. Student and staff safety and well-being were foundational to the planning and monitoring process.

Health and Safety Staff training on health and safety protocols was provided during the professional activity days prior to the start of school. Information continues to be updated on the YRDSB website and staff intranet. Current updates to health and safety protocols include:

● The Outbreak Management protocol is being finalized – waiting for decision trees from York Region Public Health ● An outbreak in a school is defined as two or more lab-confirmed COVID-19 cases in students and/or staff with an epidemiological link, (e.g., cases in the same class, cases that are part of the same before-and-after care cohort, cases that have assigned bus seats in close proximity to each other), within 14-days, where at least one case could have reasonably acquired their infection in the school (including transportation and before-and-after care) ● The protocol will provide guidance to school administrators and department managers on identifying, isolating and reporting suspected or confirmed COVID-19 cases in students and staff members in accordance with the Ministry of Education’s Operational Guidance: COVID-19 Management in Schools ● It also defines responsibilities of: ○ York Region Public Health ○ Staff and parents for reporting suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19 at home/when to stay home or at school/immediate departure/pick up to seek advice from a health care provider/get tested

Page 72 of 83 ● A COVID-19 advisory section has been created on the board website to post notices of: ○ confirmed COVID-19 case involving a student or staff member; ○ closures of classes, cohorts or schools.

● Return to school: ○ those who test positive for COVID-19 or are high risk and test negative must not attend school for 14 days after the onset of symptoms and clearance has been received from the local public health unit.

Student Transportation Services (STS) STS, in collaboration with YRDSB, the York Catholic District School Board, York Regional Public Health, School Vehicle Vendors, and the Ministry of Education, developed COVID-19 transportation protocols to mitigate the health risks associated with COVID-19. The COVID-19 transportation protocol was shared directly with all schools and school vehicle vendors and is available online at www.schoolbuscity.com.

To ensure customer service excellence, STS has installed private telephone lines and email addresses for school and vendor communication only. These private communication tools will allow STS to deal with priority issues quickly and efficiently and will be active until September 25, 2020.

Bus routes were executed very smoothly over the first two days of schools with only a small percentage of runs reporting late service. STS continues to monitor bus driver status with each vendor. While a driver surplus still exists, the surplus is decreasing as drivers resign over personal health concerns.

Human Resources

Accommodations

Employees were provided with opportunities to work safely, engage in different work arrangements, and access various resources to support their mental health and well- being.

A number of processes were engaged:

1. An assessment of medically-related requests for workplace accommodations. 2. An assessment of non-medically-related work requests for workplace accommodations. These cases predominantly involved requests for family status accommodation, or challenges resulting from living with or caring for family members who were high risk or immuno-compromised. 3. Broadening the provisions for permitting long-term unpaid leaves of absences for staff who did not qualify for other types of statutory or paid leaves.

Page 73 of 83 In many cases, eligible staff were accommodated by being permitted to transfer to the YRDSB virtual schools. In other cases, each of which were assessed on an individual case-by-case basis, staff were either accommodated with customized scheduling, alternative work/schedule arrangements, or other creative solutions to enable staff to continue to work productively and safely. In cases where an employee could not be accommodated, staff were provided access to personal sick leave or other applicable leaves.

Recruitment

Due to the creation of the virtual schools and higher than normal requests for leaves and accommodations, the recruitment team has worked diligently to ensure that complements of staff are replenished to provide coverage. Recruiting and hiring processes have continued throughout the summer, and will focus on caretakers, educational assistants, and occasional teachers over the next four weeks.

Labour

Throughout the reopening process, members of the labour team have worked with union leaders to resolve issues and establish flexibility to collective agreement provisions. Bargaining will also be continuing throughout the reopening period.

Compensation and Records

The records team has worked very closely with Recruitment, Staffing, Information Technology Services (ITS) and Payroll teams to ensure that staff are properly inputted in the system and ready to begin performing work. A number of these projects are volume-intensive and required just-in-time delivery in order to ensure that operational needs were met.

Communication Plan

To date, the following communications strategies have been implemented and are continuously updated. The Communications Plan is evaluated on a regular basis and amended as necessary, depending on decisions, changes and actions by the Ministry of Education and the Board’s reopening plans:

● Social Media - updated regularly with new information and links to videos, graphics and other important materials. Social media channels, including Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube have seen significant growth and engagement through the reopening. ● Public Website - the public website has a dedicated space for the reopening plan, with resources to support family’s access to health and safety and curriculum information. A specific webpage for the advisory of confirmed cases of COVID-19 has been created and will be updated as required, with direction from the local Public Health Unit in accordance with the Ministry of Education requirements.

Page 74 of 83 ● Media Relations - traditional media continue to be a valuable partner in disseminating information and regular contact is maintained to provide accurate and up-to-date information. ● Podcasts - a podcast featuring school administrators was recently launched to support staff in the reopening of in-person learning at school. ● Video Series - video engagement has continued to grow since this area received focus approximately two years ago. Videos with health and safety and other reopening information have seen significant engagement and views. ● Direct communication with parents - email and text messaging directly with families continue to be used to relay important and up-to date information. On September 2, 2020, in collaboration with Public Health and Markham- Stouffville Hospital, the Board held a virtual Town Hall for families. Over 2,000 questions were submitted and approximately 1,000 members of the public attended. ● Trustee newsletter welcome and messaging support - the September trustee newsletter has been distributed. ● Templates for schools to use - schools continue to be provided with templated messages to support communications with families as needed.

Timelines

YRDSB’s reopening plans continue to be modified and developed to reflect ongoing direction from Public Health and the Ministry of Education. As the plan continues to be modified, details will be shared with staff, families and the community. YRDSB will maintain strong communication as schools and workplaces continue to adapt the reopening protocols and practices.

Additional Resources

Policy/Program Memorandum No. 164 outlines the requirements for remote learning

The Ministry has provided guidance to school boards in its document, Guide to Reopening Ontario’s Schools.

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Subject: Renaming Vaughan Secondary School

Contact: Louise Sirisko, Director of Education

Department: Director’s Services

Meeting Date: September 15, 2020

Actions

Proposed motion:

That, in support of the Board’s commitment to Champion Equity and Inclusivity, and Anti-Racism, the York Region District School Board approve the following recommendations.

1) That, in accordance with Board Policy #445.0, School Names and Procedure #445.2, School Names: Renaming Schools, the York Region District School Board undertake a process to rename Vaughan Secondary School.

2) That, in accordance with the School Names: Renaming Schools procedure, a report be presented to the Property Management Committee outlining;

● potential school names, ● a community engagement strategy, and ● timelines.

3) That the community engagement strategy include, at a minimum, input from;

● students and families from the impacted school, ● the Equity and Inclusivity Advisory Committee, and ● community partners.

Purpose

This report is presented to support trustees in their decision-making regarding the renaming of Vaughan Secondary School. Please be aware that the information found in this report may be upsetting as racist viewpoints are described.

Page 77 of 83 Renaming Vaughan Secondary School Page 2 of 6

Background

York Region District School Board (YRDSB) is committed to eliminating all forms of racism, hate, and discrimination. It is working to rid schools and workplaces of systemic racism including anti-Black racism and elevating the experience, perspective and excellence of Black students and staff. This commitment is clearly expressed in the Board priority to Champion Equity and Inclusivity.

Vaughan Secondary School

The May 25, 2020 murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minnesota has resulted in unprecedented world-wide focus on racial justice and on systemic anti-Black racism and its long-term traumatic impact on Black communities globally and here in Canada.

In this context, and in the context of a national effort to show the complete truth about historical figures, members of the Black community, youth and members of YRDSB staff, including Senior Leadership, have asked the Board of Trustees to rename Vaughan Secondary School.

Vaughan Secondary School was officially opened in 1989 and was named after the City of Vaughan where the school is located. The school serves a diverse student population of approximately 1,150 students.

While the school is named after the City of Vaughan, the City of Vaughan (settled in 1792 and incorporated as a Township in 1850 and a City in 1991) is named after Benjamin Vaughan (April 19, 1751 –December 8, 1835). Benjamin Vaughan was a British Parliamentarian who owned enslaved Africans in Jamaica and who vehemently argued in the British parliament against ending the system of slavery and against the emancipation of enslaved Africans.

Mr. Vaughan, who was born in Jamaica of British and Anglo-American parents, explained that from his personal experience, ending the system of slavery in Jamaica would mean the end of civilization in that country. Mr. Vaughan believed that enslavement was good for Africans.

It is argued that Benjamin Vaughan needs to be remembered as having a legacy of anti- Blackness and not as a diplomat and parliamentarian. The renaming of the school is a way for the Board to demonstrate its commitment to racial justice in general and to eliminating anti-Black racism in particular.

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Because the core business of YRDSB is student achievement and well-being, the Black community has brought to the Board’s attention that it is unthinkable that Black students should be learning and growing in a school building that bears the name of someone who saw their ancestors as uncivilized beings deserving of being chattel or property to be owned. There is no question that the Black students living in the City of Vaughan and attending Vaughan Secondary School are or will become aware of the true history of Benjamin Vaughan, and this history will affect their sense of belonging and well-being. Black students have told researchers that many of them see schools as spaces where they experience degradation, harm, and psychological violence. The name of Vaughan being attached to a school perpetuates these harmful effects against Black students, families and the community. To ensure students at the school are supported as the Board plans next steps, curriculum has been developed for teachers and mental health support will be available for students and staff, including identity specific mental health support facilitated by Black mental health professionals.

Connection to Multi-Year Strategic Plan

PRIORITY: Championing Equity and Inclusivity

GOAL: We develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes to remove barriers in support of all learners. This report demonstrates the Board’s commitment to build a collective understanding of anti-oppression.

Budget Impact

There will be costs associated with providing new signage for the school and associated changes of written materials. These costs are approximately $90,000.

Timelines

Potential Timelines Pending the Board’s decision:

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September 14 Staff and School Council at Vaughan SS are made aware of the Board report and Board meeting

September 16 Letter to Vaughan SS families

Curriculum supports implemented for students

Page 80 of 83 Renaming Vaughan Secondary School Page 5 of 6

Additional Resources: Benjamin Vaughan

Toronto Star https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2020/06/15/vaughan-named-the-august-holiday-after- a-slaveowner-who-represents-the-worst-of-humanity-but-that-may-not-be-the-citys-only- problem-with-race.html

Narcity https://www.narcity.com/news/ca/on/toronto/benjamin-vaughan-day-is-being- reconsidered-in-ontario-for-its-racist-ties

BlogTO https://www.blogto.com/city/2020/06/vaughan-named-after-racist-slaveowner-people- calling-name-change/

CTV News https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/pro-slavery-politician-petition-calls-for-ontario-city-to-change- its-name-1.4986705

Legacy of British Slave Ownership https://www.ucl.ac.uk/lbs/person/view/45943

The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2020/jun/20/gladstone-wellington-peel- britain-pro-slavery-british-history-abolition

Pro Slavery Arguments http://abolition.e2bn.org/slavery_112.html

Page 81 of 83 Renaming Vaughan Secondary School Page 6 of 6

History of the British Parliament http://www.historyofparliamentonline.org/volume/1790-1820/member/vaughan- benjamin-1751-1835

The Legacy of British Slave Ownership https://www.ucl.ac.uk/lbs/person/view/45943

WikiWand http://www.wikiwand.com/en/Benjamin_Vaughan

Page 82 of 83 ROUTINE

YORK REGION DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD

PUBLIC MEETINGS AND EVENTS

SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER 2020 ______

September 17, 2020 Parent, Family and Community Engagement Advisory Committee 7:00 p.m. Electronic Meeting

September 22, 2020 Property Management Committee 4:30 p.m. Electronic Meeting

September 22, 2020 Board Standing Committee 7:00 p.m. Electronic Meeting/Board Room

September 29, 2020 Audit Committee Meeting 5:30 p.m. Electronic Meeting

September 29, 2020 Chair’s Committee Meeting 3:30 p.m. Electronic Meeting

October 1, 2020 Special Education Advisory Committee 7:00 p.m. Electronic Meeting

October 5, 2020 All Candidates’ Meeting 6:00 p.m. Electronic Meeting

October 6, 2020 Policy and By-Law Committee Meeting 4:30 p.m. Electronic Meeting

October 6, 2020 Board Meeting 7:30 p.m. Electronic Meeting/Board Room

October 8, 2020 Equity and Inclusivity Advisory Committee 7:00 p.m. Electronic Meeting

October 13, 2020 Board Governance Review Committee 6:30 p.m. Electronic Meeting

October 20, 2020 Property Management Committee 4:30 p.m. Electronic Meeting

October 20, 2020 Board Standing Committee 7:00 p.m. Electronic Meeting/Board Room

October 21, 2020 Joint Board Consortium Committee Meeting 4:00 p.m. Electronic Meeting

October 27, 2020 Chair’s Committee Meeting 4:30 p.m. Electronic Meeting

September 15, 2020

For further information, please contact Corporate Secretariat and Trustee Services or the Director of Education. Page 83 of 83