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“We have a Lord who is capable of crying with us, capable of walking with us in the most difficult moments of life.” – Pope Francis
Despite all the challenges faced during the 2020-2021 school year, the Durham Catholic District School Board’s liturgical theme of love offered our Catholic community hope as students, families, and staff embraced acts of kindness and generosity during a global pandemic. As Board of Trustees, we witnessed students and staff rise to the challenges and inspire change, while remaining focused on learning through all the lockdowns and pivots. Throughout this time, students’ needs and mental health were the Board’s highest priority.
I am pleased to share with you the Annual Report which gives us an opportunity to reflect on the past year and highlight the accomplishments and initiatives celebrated by the Board during the Year of Love, some of which include:
- The implementation of the virtual elementary and secondary schools, together with the creation of a Home School Hybrid Model provided families with alternative learning options in response to the global pandemic.
- The raising of the Rainbow flag in recognition of Pride month at all DCDSB schools and Board offices and the creation of a Multi-disciplinary Working Group to ensure educators have the necessary faith-based resources and training to provide ongoing support of our 2SLGBTQ+ students.
- The implementation of the Grade 11 English: Contemporary Indigenous Voices course provided students with learning on Residential schools, the Truth and Reconciliation’s Calls to Action, and current issues that continue to impact Indigenous communities today.
- The development and implementation of an Anti-Black Racism Strategy to address anti-Black racism and systemic discrimination and the establishment of a Board level Anti-Black Racism and Black Excellence Committee with representation from parents, guardians, staff, students, and community members.
- Lastly, the establishment of a staff visioning committee for the new Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School to be built in north Oshawa.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I want to thank Director Barill, the Senior Administrative Team, and all DCDSB staff for their unwavering dedication to our students and families. Your leadership, commitment to excellence, and compassion provided students and families with hope and faith throughout the year.
Looking ahead, the Board remains focused on our three commitments of Excellence, Equity, and Engagement as we pray for an end to the pandemic and the re-engagement of students.
Sincerely,
Morgan Ste. Marie
Chair of the Board