On your way to School or Work? Complete the COVID-19 self-assessment screening first. You can download our DCDSB app to access the screening tool or click the link above.
Please note that the screening tool was updated on August 27, 2021. If the screening tool indicates that you are not cleared to go to school/child care, you must stay at home and contact the school/child care to let them know.
Where access to technology is a barrier, families should contact the school for support.
For technical support on Board issued devices or applications such as Edsby, D2L/Brightspace, Office 365, etc., please email TechnologySupport@dcdsb.ca and explain the issue you are experiencing. Please include in the email, the student full legal name, student User ID (if you know it), date of birth, school name, grade and phone number where we can contact you.
If you required a PASSWORD RESET, please include in the email, the student’s full legal name, student User ID (if you know it), date of birth, school name, grade, registered address and phone number on file where we can contact you.
Edsby Support for Parents, Guardians, and Students
Instructional videos are available for parents/guardians/students online at: https://dcdsb.ca/Edsby
Additional Ministry Supports for Learning
Parents/Guardians are reminded that the Ministry of Education recently announced the launch of two new portals, TVO Learn and TFO IDÉLLO, apprendre à la maison, which provide supports for students learning remotely by accessing additional educational resources developed by Ontario certified teachers.
A couple of weeks ago, the Ontario government announced several updates for families. These updates include important information about:
Semester Schedule for Secondary Schools
Rapid Antigen Screening Kits - All Students
Travelling over the Christmas Break
COVID-19 Vaccinations for Students age 5 to 11 years
Onsite Confirmation of Self-Assessment following the Christmas Break
All students and staff are required to conduct daily screening for symptoms of COVID-19 before attending school using the COVID-19 school screening tool. Please do not send your child(ren) to school if they have symptoms or have not passed the self-assessment.
The Ministry of Education has instructed Ontario School Boards to complete active screening for all students, staff, and visitors to our schools for the 10 days of school following the Christmas break (i.e. January 3 - 14, 2022) – similar to what was done in September.
More information on how to complete the active screening will be shared with families next week.
November 22, 2021 - Updates for DCDSB Families
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Last week, the Ontario government announced several updates for families.
Semester Schedule for Secondary Schools
The Ministry of Education has advised Ontario school boards that we can return to a semester schedule for the second half of the school year. In a semester schedule. students can take up to four courses per day for half of the school year. The current quadmester schedule has secondary students taking up to two courses per day for a quarter of the school year.
DCDSB secondary schools will transition to a regular semester schedule for the start of Semester 2 (previously Quadmester 3) in February 2022. This will mark the mid-year point of the 2021-2022 school year. Please note that the start and end times of the school day will remain the same up until the end of June as they are connected to our student transportation.
While this may come as welcomed news for many of our students, families, and staff, we recognize that yet another change can cause anxiety for some, particularly those students who have yet to experience a semester system. As we transition back to a more typical school year structure students and families can contact their school to access resources and supports.
We appreciate all members of our DCDSB community for your cooperation and resiliency as we work together to navigate the many changes caused by the pandemic. We believe that the shift back to a more normal secondary school timetable and schedule, will positively impact teaching and learning for our students. We will continue to work closely with the Durham Region Health Department to ensure health and safety measures are in place at all times.
Please note that with this announcement, our secondary schools will begin the process of timetabling student schedules for Semester 2 (beginning February 2022). This will take some time, and schools will provide further information to students and families in the new year.
Rapid Antigen Screening Kits – All Students
The Ministry of Education also announced that they will be providing elementary and secondary school students with rapid antigen screening kits, to take home during the Christmas break. Every student will be able to pick up a kit of five tests to complete voluntary screening at home to support a safe return to school in January 2022. It is important to note that these Rapid Antigen Tests are voluntary and will be available to families who wish to participate. More information regarding the distribution of the kits will be shared when further details are available.
Travelling over the Christmas Break
The Durham Region Health Department has asked us to remind families of the federal guidelines for travel. As per the Durham Region Health Department and Government of Canada direction, unvaccinated students returning from travel outside of Canada must not attend school or childcare for 14 days after their return. Fully vaccinated students who have travelled outside of Canada and meet the requirements to be exempt from federal quarantine (including passing a pre-entry molecular COVID-19 test), are able to attend school upon their return. Further details can be found at the Government of Canada website. Please also review the Government of Canada’s Travel Advice and Advisories FAQ ahead of any international travel.
COVID-19 Vaccinations for Students age 5 to 11 Years
On Friday, November 19, 2021, the Ontario government announced that COVID-19 vaccinations for children age 5 to 11 years will soon be available. Beginning Tuesday, November 23, 2021 families will be able to book a COVID-19 vaccination appointment for children age 5 to 11 years by visiting the Region of Durham website at durham.ca.
We will continue to work with the Durham Region Health Department to communicate information on upcoming vaccination clinics in public locations for anyone who is interested in obtaining the vaccine for their child(ren).
Once again, we want to thank you for your continued patience as we work through this new information. Thank you for your support during these unpredictable times. We remind you to follow our Return to Learning and COVID-19 Updates webpages and your child’s school website for the latest updates and information.
Yours in Faith,
Tracy Barill Director of Education
September 3, 2021- DCDSB Ventilation Report
We continue to make upgrades to improve the ventilation infrastructure in our school buildings. Improvements over the past year include:
upgrading filters to use the highest-grade possible (MERV 13);
adding filter changes throughout the school year;
operating ventilation systems two hours or more before and after school occupancy;
calibrating HVAC systems for maximum air flow and increased fresh air intake; and much more.
September 2, 2021 - Important Information Regarding Self-Screening for Students
Dear DCDSB Families,
We are looking forward to welcoming our students to the 2021-2022 school year.
We want to share important information regarding self-screening for students who will be attending in-person learning at our schools.
Self-Screening Tool Please be advised that the provincial COVID-19 Screening Tool for schools has now been updated and is available on the Ministry of Health website. We have also attached the PDF versions of the revised Screening Tool below:
Please note that the symptom list has been revised and questions regarding vaccination have been added to the Screening Tool.
Confirmation of Self-Screening The Ministry of Education has instructed Ontario School Boards to complete active screening for all students, staff and visitors to our schools for the first 10 days of school. All students and staff are required to conduct daily screening for symptoms of COVID-19 before attending school using the COVID-19 school screening tool. Please do not send your child(ren) to school if they have symptoms or have not passed the self-assessment.
To meet these requirements, parents, guardians and students are required to follow the directions below.
Elementary Students A Self-Assessment Confirmation Booklet (Word document) has been prepared for the month of September. This document will be printed by schools, and schools will provide a copy provided to every student. You will note that the document provides the checklist of self-screening symptoms and a “calendar” for the month of September with a box for the parent/guardian signature each day. While at this point active screening is only required for the first two weeks of school, we have included the whole month just in case the direction is extended.
The first day of school is September 7, 2021. Parents are asked to print the document for the first day of school, complete the assessment and send a signed copy of the document to school with their child. If you do not have a printer, please complete the self-assessment and send a hand-written note with your child to school to confirm that they are free of symptoms.
As mentioned, every child will bring home their “Self-Assessment Confirmation Booklet” on Tuesday, September 7, so this instruction applies to day one only.
Secondary Students Students must complete the self-screening tool, and confirm completion by one of the following ways:
Show the green check mark that appears on a student’s device after completing the self-assessment upon entering the school/classroom; or
Print the attached Word document and have a parent or guardian initial that the student has passed the self-assessment screening on the calendar portion of the document for September 7, 2021; or
If you do not have a printer or device, please complete the self-assessment and send a hand-written note from the student, parent, or guardian to school to confirm that they are free of symptoms.
Questions If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your school.
Storybooks to Help Students Transition Back to School
The following two stories are designed to help student transition back to school and identifies what to expect when attending in-person learning.
DCPIC Welcome to the 2021-2022 School Year Virtual Information Session for Parents/Guardians
Dear Families,
The Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) is hosting a “Welcome to the 2021-2022 School Year Virtual Information Session for Parents and Guardians” on Wednesday, September 1, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. This forum will include information about the 2021-2022 school year, and also includes information and answers to the questions that parents/guardians were invited to submit.
This virtual event is a YouTube Premiere event, hosted on the DCDSB’s YouTube channel, and will also be available to view on YouTube at any time if you are unable to join us on September 1, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. Please click here to view this YouTube Premiere event.
Please visit your school's website for further information on school hours and lunch time(s).
Our Grade 7-12 schools are operating on the elementary school schedule as Grade 7-12 students share bussing through Durham Student Transportation Services (DSTS). Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School will be operating on a slightly different schedule so that the school hours are staggered with the adjoining DDSB secondary school. All other Grade 9-12 secondary schools will be operating on a 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. schedule during the 2021-2022 school year due to bus driver shortages in the upcoming school year. For further information on transportation, please visit the DSTS website.
Mask/Face Coverings Accommodations and Exemptions for Students
For further information regarding the protocol and process for mask/face coverings accommodations and exemptions for students, please view the following document:
We are eager to welcome students back to full-time school in-person or virtually. As announced today, safety protocols and routines will continue to be in place to support the health and well-being of our Catholic learning community.
Vaccinations COVID-19 vaccinations are available for youth aged 12 to 17 and their family members and will play a big role in the safe return to school for all. If you are interested in receiving your first or second dose, please book an appointment as soon as possible at the Durham Region Health Department or attend one of their drop-in vaccination clinics. It is not too late to get vaccinated!
Ventilation
We have upgraded all DCDSB schools’ mechanic ventilation systems filters to MERV13 and are changing filters more frequently. Staff will continue to bring in more fresh air two hours prior to the start of school and two hours after school when weather permits.
We have also purchased 1,000 portable HEPA air filtration systems and have installed the unit in all elementary classrooms. We are currently in the process of installing HEPA units in classrooms.
COVID-19 Screening Tool
All students will be required to complete the province’s COVID-19 school screening tool and return a self-assessment form to school on Tuesday, September 7, 2021. As a reminder, students should not attend school if they or a family member in their household is feeling ill.
Safety Protocols For students attending in-person elementary and secondary schools:
Daily self-assessments are to be performed at home prior to attending school for COVID-related symptoms.
Students or staff members who are exhibiting symptoms are expected to stay home.
Non-medical masks are mandatory indoors for students in Grades 1-12 and encouraged for those in Kindergarten.
Hand hygiene and physical distancing will continue to be emphasized and signage will remain in place throughout the school as a reminder.
Hand sanitizer and cleaning supplies continue to be available throughout the school.
Enhanced cleaning protocols continue throughout the school.
Access to school facilities will continue to be limited to students and staff only.
Schools will continue to work with the Durham Region Health Department as needed.
Extra-curricular Activities Field trips, sports, music programs and extra-curricular activities will be allowed to resume in schools with prescribed protocols. Close contact sports such as basketball will be allowed outdoors. Our schools will communicate safety protocols regarding extra-curricular activities when available.
Elementary Schools Our elementary schools will resume regular, full-time, instruction five days a week per the established school calendar. Hours of operation are available on your school’s website.
Secondary Schools Secondary schools will be returning to a full-day of in-person instruction, with all students attending every day following a quadmester system with two courses per timetable. Hours of operation for secondary schools will be 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday to Friday unless otherwise communicated by the school.
Virtual and Hybrid Learning Classes for students enrolled in Durham Catholic Virtual Learning Elementary School will begin on September 7, 2021. Staff will email families to provide log in information for Edsby during the week of August 30th.
As previously communicated, a hybrid learning model will be provided for secondary students who registered in June for virtual learning for the 2021-2022 school year. More information will be forthcoming to students through their home school closer to the start of the year.
All school offices will be open on August 23, 2021. If for unforeseen circumstances, a family wishes to withdraw from virtual learning and return to in-person learning they should contact their home school as soon as possible after August 23 and before the start of school.
School Bus Information Students in Kindergarten to Grade 12 who are eligible for busing through Durham Student Transportation Services (DSTS) will be given assigned seating and will be required to wear a masked while on the bus and complete the COVID-19 self-assessment prior to riding the bus each day. DSTS bus route information will be available by calling 1-866-908-6578 or 905-666-6979 beginning August 18, 2021. To access routing information, you will need your child’s OEN number which can be found on their report card.
Updates and Information Thank you for your partnership as we ensure students and staff a safe and positive return to school. For ongoing updates, please visit www.dcdsb.ca/returntolearning.
Lastly, I extend an invitation to families to participate in a live virtual forum hosted in partnership with the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC). It is my hope that this will be an opportunity to respond to questions based on the most current situation as we transition to the 2021-2022 school year.
Save the Date! Welcome to the 2021-2022 School Year Online Forum for Parents and Guardians Question and Answer Session with DCPIC and the Director of Education Wednesday, September 1, 2021 Time: 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. An invitation and link will be emailed to families in the next two weeks.
We are grateful for a return to in-person learning in September. I continue to pray for you all and look forward to sharing more information in the coming weeks.
Yours in Faith,
Tracy Barill, Director of Education
June 10 - Secondary Home School Hybrid Learning Model Option Form and FAQs
June 10, 2021
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Today, we are sharing important information regarding remote learning for secondary students during the 2021-2022 school year. Please read this information carefully, as this is your family’s opportunity to switch from in-person to hybrid learning for students who are currently in Grades 8-12.
While we encourage all students to plan to attend school in-person in September 2021, we want to inform parents, guardians and students aged 18 years or older of the option to enrol in the board’s existing home school hybrid learning model.
In April, we asked virtual secondary school families for their potential interest in a remote learning option for the 2021-2022 school year. The survey results indicated that we do not have sufficient numbers to provide a virtual secondary school next year.
We understand that a virtual learning environment may be a future option desired by or necessary for some families. In an effort to accommodate families, we are offering a Home School Hybrid Learning option for secondary students. This hybrid learning model allows remote learners to be taught at the same time as in-person learners, while remaining connected to their secondary school community.
What do I need to do?
You DO NOT have to do anything if you want your child to attend in-person learning in September. Students in Grades 8-12 will be considered in-person learners by default.
If you DO want your child to learn remotely through our home school hybrid model, then parents, guardians and students 18 years and older must complete thePermissionClick form to commit to the home school hybrid learning model.
This form will be emailed to you directly from PermissionClick today (Thursday, June 10) at 2:00 p.m. and will close on Friday, June 18 at 4:00 p.m. Please check your inbox’s junk and/or clutter folders to ensure you have received this email.
If the form is not completed by the closing date, students will be enrolled as in-person learners for September.
Course selection
It is important to note that not all secondary courses will be available through the hybrid model. You will not need to choose courses again, as your original course selection sheet will be taken into consideration when timetabling.
Switching from Hybrid Learning to In-Person
The first opportunity to switch from the home school hybrid learning model to in-person will be at the end of the first quadmester. Parents/Guardians who wish to change their child’s mode of learning for the second quadmester must contact the school at least two weeks before the end of quadmester 1 ( November 11, 2021) to request the change.
For questions regarding your child’s timetable, please contact your secondary school’s Guidance and/or Administration team.
Yours in Faith,
Tracy Barill,
Director of Education
Frequently Asked Questions about the Secondary Hybrid Learning Model
What is a Hybrid Learning Model? The hybrid learning model blends in-person learners with virtual learners in the same class and in your home school. For example, a classroom has 25 students, there may be 20 students learning in-person, and 5 students learning virtually.
Can my child change from the hybrid model to in-person? The first opportunity for your child to change from the hybrid learning model to in-person learning will be at the end of the first quadmester. Parents are to inform the school two weeks prior to the end of the first quadmester, by November 11, 2021.
What are the benefits of hybrid learning?
A hybrid learning model offers many benefits to students and families:
Students will have deeper connections with their home school and more interactions with their friends;
Consistency and continuity of learning for all students regardless of whether they are learning in-class or virtually
Easier transition for students who move from the hybrid learning to in-person learning.
When will the hybrid learning model begin? The secondary hybrid learning model will begin on the first day of school in September 2021.
What are you doing to ensure privacy and security? Your child’s safety, security, personal comfort and privacy will continue to be paramount. The laptop camera will be focused on the teacher or the whiteboard, and not on the students in the class. However, in-person voices will be audible to the remote learners, and there may be some instances where it is conducive to the lesson or a group activity to allow the images of the in-person students to be seen by the virtually attending students.
Remote access to the in-person class will be available only to students who are registered as home school hybrid model learners in the class, and have been provided with a secure password.
On occasion, there may be events and activities during the school year that involve photos or video. The use of photos and videos is established based on parent and guardian consent. Please ensure that a Student Media Consent Form is completed at the beginning of the school year and on file at your child’s secondary school.
What will the class look like? In the hybrid model, the classroom will include both in-class students and virtual learners. All students, regardless of how they are learning, will be taught by the same classroom teacher.
When will timetables be provided? Timetables will be shared with students on the first day of school. Teachers will message their period one class prior to September 7 with the class’s room number. When students arrive to class, a hard copy of their timetable will be provided to them. Students who opt for the home school hybrid learning model will have their timetables mailed to them prior to September 7, 2021.
How will you track student attendance? If your child is going to be absent, parents and guardians must notify the school by going to the Safe Arrival portal at go.schoolmessenger.ca or by calling 1-844-288-7628. Student will be required to keep their camera on in order for attendance to be completed at the start of class.
What are the technology and/or behaviour expectations? The school’s Code of Conduct and Acceptable Use and Communication Technology Policy will continue to apply to all students. Any student who fails to comply could be subject to disciplinary measures, including suspension from virtual attendance, in accordance with the Board’s student discipline policy and procedures.
In addition, students will receive explicit expectations around appropriate behaviour, and dress codes.
How will students access learning from the classroom? Students will access learning via Zoom, Edsby, Brightspace and Microsoft Teams. This will be a secure meeting place and students will need to enter a password and sign-in credentials to access the lessons.
Will the DCDSB provide technology for students to use? We understand that some students may not have access to devices for hybrid learning. We will continue provide technology resources to make this transition as successful as possible.
June 9 - French Immersion Virtual Learning Option Survey
June 9, 2021
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Parents and guardians who are interested in a Virtual Option for French Immersion for the 2021-2022 school year are asked to please carefully review the information below and complete the survey.
If you are not interested in virtual learning option for the coming school year, no action is necessary.
Background
In April 2021, a communication was sent out to families which confirmed that Durham Catholic would offer a Virtual Elementary School – Kindergarten to Grade 8 English Program, in the 2021-2022 school year. Parents and guardians were invited to register at that time with the understanding that registering in the virtual school for September would be a commitment for the full school year. As of April 22, 2021, any students currently in DCDSB Virtual Elementary School who did not register for virtual for September were automatically enrolled for face-to-face learning at their home school for the fall.
A Virtual French Immersion Program was not offered at that time.
In May, the Ministry of Education issued their directives for the 2021-2022 school year. School Boards were asked to give parents and guardians to at least June 1st to confirm their decisions.
Expectations for September
As vaccinations increase and COVID-19 cases decline, there is increasing optimism for a relatively normal return to school in the fall. The board believes that face to face learning is the best option for the large majority of our students and strongly encourages parents and guardians to consider the significant social-emotional benefits of in-person learning.
French Immersion – Virtual Option
That being said, at this time, a survey is being conducted to determine the level of interest in a Virtual French Immersion program for the 2021-2022 school year. It is important to note that should such a program be offered, enrolment would be a commitment for the full school year.
If, and only if, there are sufficient numbers to make the program viable, the board will proceed with offering a Virtual French Immersion Program.
Parents and guardians who are willing to commit to enrolment in a Virtual Learning French Immersion Program for the full 2020-2021 school year are asked to complete the following survey no later than Monday, June 14, 2021 at 5:00 pm. Click here to complete the survey.
Please complete a separate form for each child that would want to enrol in a Virtual French Immersion Program.
Yours in Faith,
Tracy Barill Director of Education
2021-2022 School Year Planning Presentation
Director Barill presented an overview of the 2021-2022 school year plan during the May 25, 2021 Regular Board Meeting. On May 4, 2021 the Ministry of Education announced continued COVID-19 funding to support the planning for the 2021-2022 school year. School boards can only budget for the first half of the year.
April 26 - French Immersion Explanation
Questions & Answers
Answers to questions have been categorized into the following areas:
School Year Planning
Q. Isn’t it too early to start planning for the 2021-2022 school year?
Due to labour law, collective agreements and hiring needs, the Board has specific timelines which need to be met. Each year, we begin collecting enrolment projections in and monitor changes right through until the start of the school year. If we do not begin this process in the early Spring each year, we would run the risk of not being properly staffed for the fall.
Q. With COVID-19 and timelines changing week to week, why do parents have to decide on a learning model by April 21?
While the provincial COVID-19 landscape is rapidly changing at this time rapid, we anticipate, due to communication we have received from the Ministry of Education, that a large portion of the adult population will be vaccinated over the next few months. Given this timeline, we anticipate that schools will be able to return to a normal learning experience in September 2021.
Q. Will there be an extension on making this decision?
While the Board fully believes that face to face learning is optimal for most students, especially with regards to social-emotional development, mental health and well-being, it is understood that in some exceptional cases, families may desire a virtual learning option. For this reason, the Board has decided to make a commitment to operating a Virtual Elementary School for students in Kindergarten to Grade 8.
In 2021-2022, the Virtual Elementary School will be run as would a normal school, therefore early registration is necessary. Unless required to do so, the option to transition from on-line to in-person will be limited to extraordinary circumstances.
Safety
Q. Will students and teachers be vaccinated before the start of school?
Based on Ministry of Education information and media reports, adults in Ontario who wish to be vaccinated will have access to a vaccine by summer. School boards have also been advised that vaccines may be available to students 16 years of age and older, but we have not received official communication regarding student immunization.
Q. Will students be required to obtain a COVID-19 vaccine in order to attend in-person classes?
We have not received information regarding student immunization at this time.
Q. Will all of the current COVID-19 safety protocols be in place for September 2021? (e.g. Mandatory masks, etc.)
We expect that some layers of protection will continue to be in place as school begins in September. However, the Minister of Education has indicated that every effort will be made to resume a more normal social experience in schools in the fall.
Q. What will schools do if there is an outbreak and are required to close temporarily?
If an outbreak occurs, schools move to virtual learning if required.
In-Person Learning
Q. Is action required if I want my child to return to or continue with in-person learning?
No action is required if you want your child to return to in-school learning from the virtual school or if you want your child to continue with in-person learning.
Virtual Learning
Q. Can we switch between online and in-person learning next school year during breaks such as Christmas, March Break, end of Quadmester?
At this time, the Board expects students will remain in their chosen school (and mode of learning) for the entire school year. Unless required due to extraordinary circumstances, the option for students to transition from on-line to in-person will be limited.
Q. Will virtual be a mix of online and in-class (hybrid) or purely online only?
No, virtual will be strictly online only.
Q. Is French Immersion being offered at virtual elementary school?
No. Staffing challenges have made it necessary for the Board to limit French Immersion programming to in-person learning only.
Q. Is action required if I want my child to continue in virtual learning?
Yes, please complete the form emailed to you by Permission Click. A form must be completed for each child that you wish to enroll in virtual learning.
Q. Will the virtual program include in-class learning as well? (e.g. Hybrid model or one day per week for social interaction and project work)
No, the Durham Catholic Virtual Elementary School will be strictly online only.
Q. Can we switch teachers in a virtual learning classroom?
As with all schools, classroom assignment is the responsibility of the Principal who has full authority to determine student placement.
Q. If students continue in virtual learning for Grade 8, what will Grade 8 graduation look like? Will they have an option to return to their “home” school to graduate with their peers? Enrollment in virtual learning in 2021-2022 means that Grade 8 students will graduate from the Durham Catholic Virtual Elementary School.
Q. Will students currently in virtual who wishes to remain in virtual learning be with the same online classmates? Not necessarily. Class organization will be managed as it is in every school which means that classmates and teachers may change.
Secondary
Q. Are secondary school hours changing to accommodate the possibility of having a virtual secondary school? If yes, what are the new school hours?
At this time, we have been asked by the Ministry of Education to plan to begin the school year using the same schedules and format that we currently have in place. For example: A quadmester system with two courses in each quad and where students will attend in-person classes from 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. each day and will attend online classes in afternoon to 4:00 p.m.
French Immersion
Q. What options are available for French Immersion? Due to staffing challenges, it was necessary for the Board to limit French Immersion programming to in-person learning only for the 2021-2022 school year.
Kindergarten
Q. How many students do you anticipate will be in each Kindergarten class?
Kindergarten class sizes will be based on provincial class size regulations (up to 29 students).
Q. Will Kindergarten students starting school for the first time have an introduction to their classroom and teacher?
Staff have implemented a Navigating Kindergarten Series with videos available on our board website. In May or June, your school will host a virtual Welcome to Kindergarten session to provide you with an opportunity to meet staff and learn more about your child’s transition to school in September.
Technology
Where access to technology is a barrier, families should contact the school for support.
For technical support on Board issued devices or applications such as Edsby, D2L/Brightspace, Office 365, etc., please email TechnologySupport@dcdsb.ca and explain the issue you are experiencing. Please include in the email, the student full legal name, student User ID (if you know it), date of birth, school name, grade and phone number where we can contact you.
If you required a PASSWORD RESET, please include in the email, the student’s full legal name, student User ID (if you know it), date of birth, school name, grade, registered address and phone number on file where we can contact you.
Edsby Support for Parents/Guardians/Students
Instructional videos are available for parents/guardians/students online at: https://dcdsb.ca/Edsby
Additional Ministry Supports for Learning
Parents/Guardians are reminded that the Ministry of Education recently announced the launch of two new portals, TVO Learn and TFO IDÉLLO, apprendre à la maison, which provide supports for students learning remotely by accessing additional educational resources developed by Ontario certified teachers.
April 6 - Planning for the 2021-2022 School Year
Elementary (In-person Learning)
April 6, 2021
Dear Parents and Guardians,
As we look ahead to the 2021-2022 school year, I want to provide an update on the learning options that will be available to families. Fundamentally, the Board believes that in-person learning is the best option for the vast majority of students particularly with regards to mental health and well-being. That being said, our Board also recognizes that virtual online learning may be a future option desired by or necessary for some families.
Elementary
The Durham Catholic District School Board will continue to offer a virtual online learning model for students in Kindergarten to Grade 8 (English track only) for the 2021-2022 school year. Students who choose to enrol in the Durham Catholic Virtual Elementary School for September would be expected to remain in the online school for the entire 2021-2022 school year.
To ensure sufficient staffing, it is important that all schools have an accurate count of students for September. If you are moving or intend to transfer your child to another school for September, please contact your school’s Administrative Assistant as soon as possible.
If you wish to enrol your child(ren) in Durham Catholic Virtual Elementary School for the 2021-2022 school year, please contact your school’s office prior to April 21, 2021 and request a transfer to our Durham Catholic Virtual Elementary School.
Questions
We understand that you may have questions regarding what to expect in the fall. We encourage you to submit your questions by Friday, April 9, 2021 and we will do our best to address your concerns. Questions and answers will be posted to the Return to Learning web page during the week of April 12, 2021.
We will continue to keep you informed as new information becomes available for September 2021.
Yours in Faith,
Tracy Barill Director of Education
Elementary (Virtual Learning)
April 6, 2021
Dear Parents and Guardians,
As we look ahead to the 2021-2022 school year, I want to provide an update on the learning options that will be available to families. Fundamentally, the Board believes that in-person learning is the best option for the vast majority of students particularly with regards to mental health and well-being. That being said, our Board also recognizes that virtual online learning may be a future option desired by or necessary for some families.
The Durham Catholic District School Board will continue to offer a virtual online learning model for students in Kindergarten to Grade 8 (English track only) for the 2021-2022 school year. Students who choose to enrol in the Durham Catholic Virtual Elementary School for September would be expected to remain in the online school for the entire 2021-2022 school year.
Following this letter, all parents/guardians will receive an email from Permission Click.
If you wish to register in Durham Catholic Virtual Elementary school for the entire 2021-2022 school year, please open the email and complete the form. All forms are due by April 21, 2021.
If you wish to have your child return to a regular bricks and mortar school for the 2021-2022 school year, please ignore the email from Permission Click as no action is required. If we do not receive notification by April 21, 2021, your child will automatically be transferred back to their elementary school for in-person learning beginning September.
Questions
We understand that you may have questions regarding what to expect in the fall. We encourage you to submit your questions by Friday, April 9, 2021 and we will do our best to address your concerns. Questions and answers will be posted to the Return to Learning web page during the week of April 12, 2021.
We will continue to keep you inform as new information becomes available for September 2021.
Yours in Faith,
Tracy Barill Director of Education
Secondary (In-person, Modified and Virtual)
April 6, 2021
Dear Student(s)/Parent(s)/Guardian(s),
As we look toward September, we are endeavouring to put plans in place as early as possible to provide stability for our students and community. At this time, the Ministry of Education has not confirmed what will be required of Boards with regards to cohorting of students, COVID-19 protections and/or remote learning options for students.
In order to be prepared to respond quickly to direction when it becomes available, it is very important to have an accurate count of secondary students (Grades 9-12) who would choose remote learning for the full year, if it is an option for 2021-2022.
Currently, we believe that when school resumes in September 2021, our schools will be required to continue following a quadmester system and the same daily schedule that is currently in place for the first half of the year. The only difference being that there is a chance that all students will be able to attend the “in-school” classes for 150 minutes every day (as opposed to every other day). It is our hope that a return to a regular, full day schedule will be possible by the second half of the year.
We are asking for your assistance at this time.
Students who wish to attend in-person classes in September for the 2021-2022 school year are not required to take any action at this time. Students currently attending the Durham Catholic Virtual Secondary School who intend to return to in-person learning for the fall do not have to take any action at this time either as they will automatically be registered back at their home school.
Action Required
Students who will be in Grades 9-12 in September and would prefer a remote learning option IF IT IS AVAILABLE for the 2021-2022 school year are asked to complete an electronic “pre-registration” form, click here.
Please note, by completing the form, you are stating that it is your preference to complete the full school year in a remote learning environment. These submissions will be used to inform staffing decisions so an accurate count is very important. Forms are due by April 21, 2021.
Once numbers are determined and concrete direction from the Ministry of Education has been received, more information will be provided. Thank you for your assistance in this matter.
Yours in Faith,
Tracy Barill, Director of Education
Technology
Where access to technology is a barrier, families should contact the school for support.
For technical support on Board issued devices or applications such as Edsby, D2L/Brightspace, Office 365, etc., please email TechnologySupport@dcdsb.ca and explain the issue you are experiencing. Please include in the email, the student full legal name, student User ID (if you know it), date of birth, school name, grade and phone number where we can contact you.
If you required a PASSWORD RESET, please include in the email, the student’s full legal name, student User ID (if you know it), date of birth, school name, grade, registered address and phone number on file where we can contact you.
Edsby Support for Parents/Guardians/Students
Instructional videos are available for parents/guardians/students online at: https://dcdsb.ca/Edsby
Additional Ministry Supports for Learning
Parents/Guardians are reminded that the Ministry of Education recently announced the launch of two new portals, TVO Learn and TFO IDÉLLO, apprendre à la maison, which provide supports for students learning remotely by accessing additional educational resources developed by Ontario certified teachers.
Resources to Support the Transition Back to School and Virtual Learning
Information for 2020-2021 School Year (Reference Only)
June 8 - Durham Region Health Department: Additional Vaccination Clinic Locations/Dates
June 8, 2021
Dear Families and Youth:
Please find an update from the Durham Region Health Department regarding additional mobile vaccination clinic locations and dates for youth 12 years of age and older, and their family members.
Best, Durham Catholic District School Board
COVID-19 Vaccination Information
Youth 12 years of age and older, and their unimmunized family members are encouraged to book their first vaccination appointment to receive the Pfizer vaccine.
The following youth clinics will be open this month. No appointments are required.
Lakeview Park, Oshawa (drive-up and walk-up) June 10 and 11, 2021 12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Sunderland Memorial Arena and Fairgrounds, Sunderland June 10 and 11, 2021 9:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Diane Hamre Recreation Complex, Newcastle (drive-up and walk-up) June 17 and 18, 2021 12:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Pierre Elliott Trudeau Public School June 18 and 19, 2021 9:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Kinsmen Park, Ajax June 24 and 25, 2021 12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Bowmanville High School, Bowmanville June 25 and 26, 2021 9:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Second dose clinics will be offered in August 2021 to facilitate completion of the two dose Pfizer vaccine series prior to the upcoming 2021-2022 school year.
As a friendly reminder, appointments will also be available at Ajax, Pickering, Whitby, Clarington, Brock, Scugog, Uxbridge and Oshawa mass immunization clinics. To book an appointment at any mass immunization clinic, please visit www.durhamvaccinebooking.ca or call 1-888-444-5113. For the Ontario Tech Campus Ice Centre Clinic (Oshawa) site please visit https://covid19vaccine.lh.ca/ or call 905-721-4828.
Individuals must be 12 years of age at the time of the vaccine appointment. Identification with date of birth is required when attending the vaccination clinic.
Drive up options are available to support parents/families with younger children who may have unique challenges when attending clinics (e.g., parents with younger children and unable to obtain childcare for other children, children or adults with mobility issues).
Drive up options are available at Diane Hamre Recreation Complex (Newcastle), Lakeview Park (Oshawa) and Ontario Tech Campus Ice Centre (Oshawa).
Eligible youth ages 12-17 and their family members are welcome to book into any vaccine clinic. If you and your children ages 12-17 are interested in receiving the vaccine, book your appointment today.
For further information on COVID-19 vaccines, as well as available clinics, please visit www.durham.ca/covidvaccines.
June 2 - Remote Learning Continues for Remainder of School Year
June 2, 2021
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Today the Ontario Government announced that elementary and secondary schools will continue with remote learning for the remainder of the 2020-2021 school year. Click here to view the announcement. As we continue with remote learning, it is important that students remain engaged and actively participate in class discussions.
This news allows for continued focus on COVID-19 vaccinations for students age 12+, family members and educators who want to receive the vaccine, while supporting a safe return to in-person learning in September for the 2021-22 school year. For all those interested in registering for a vaccination appointment, please visit the Durham Region Health Department’s website.
Summer School DCDSB’s Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre is accepting registrations for summer school. Programs are available for all learners. All classes are conditional upon sufficient enrolment. Visit con-ed.ca for more information.
Mental Health Resources
In the coming weeks, we will be launching a summer Mental Health web page with resources and programs that students and families can access during July and August. Communication will also be shared regarding Mental Health speakers and workshops for families interested in participating.
Thank you for your cooperation during this time. We continue to pray for the health and safety of our school communities.
Yours in Catholic Faith,
Tracy Barill Director of Education
May 31 - Vaccine Information and Resources
The Ministry of Health has provided the following information and resources regarding the COVID-19 vaccine for youth ages 12-17.
Vaccines are safe, effective and are the best way to protect your child, your family, and your community from COVID-19. Vaccines will help students and families to safely resume normal activities as soon as possible.
Health Canada has authorized the use of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for youth aged 12 and up. Ontarians aged 12 to 17 are now able to book an appointment for a free first dose of the vaccine. Visit Durham Region Health Department’s website to book an appointment. There will also be special “youth and families clinics” happening throughout the weeks of June 14 and 21. Depending on where you live, some clinics will offer appointments and others may be drop-in clinics.
Most children with COVID-19 have mild symptoms or none at all. However, some children with COVID-19 can get very sick. Children can also spread COVID-19 to other people. Vaccinating children protects them from getting sick and reduces virus spread within their household and the community.
To help your child and your family to make an informed decision, the Government of Ontario has developed a fact sheet based on expert medical advice and scientific information. It covers several key areas including:
Safety of the vaccine for youth
Why vaccination is important
Effectiveness of the vaccine for youth
As well, the government has a dedicated webpage that outlines how to book and prepare for your child’s vaccination appointment. It provides information about the province’s current plan for youth vaccinations, answers key questions around safety and effectiveness, and provides links to external sites for more information. You and your child are also encouraged to talk to your health care provider or contact Durham Region Health Department if you have questions about the vaccine.
Supporting your child to be vaccinated against COVID-19 is an important step in the fight against this disease. It will be a key factor in helping our school community return to a sense of normalcy and will benefit overall physical and mental health for children, youth and their families. More information and resources are available on our website at dcdsb.ca.
Yours in Faith,
Tracy Barill Director of Education
May 27 - Vaccine Registration for Students age 12-17
May 14 - Stay at Home Order Extended and Vaccinations for Students 12-17 years of age
May 14, 2021
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Yesterday, the Government of Ontario announced that the provincial Stay at Home order and school closures would be extended to June 2, 2021. This decision was made based on the advice of Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health - Click here to read the news release.
Vaccinations for Students Ages 12-17
Starting May 31, 2021, students 12-17 years of age in Ontario and their family members/caregivers will be eligible to receive their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine. In addition to what is already in place, special clinics targeted at providing vaccinations for this group will be established throughout the province during the weeks of June 14 and June 21, 2021. The Government of Ontario has indicated that School Boards will work with Public Health Departments to arrange for administration of the second dose of the vaccine for this group by the end of August 2021.
Our Board will be meeting with the Durham Region Health Department next week to clarify details and will share information in the coming weeks once a plan has been finalized.
We are very pleased with this news and hopeful that it will contribute to as normal a return to school in September as possible. May the love of God and the power of prayer during the Month of Mary bring a sense of peace to you and your family.
Yours in Faith,
Tracy Barill Director of Education
April 12 - Government of Ontario Announces a Return to Remote Learning beginning on April 19, 2021
April 12, 2021
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Late this afternoon, the Government of Ontario announced that as a result of a rapid increase in COVID-19 transmission, a provincial decision has been made to return to remote learning for both elementary and secondary students following the April break. This decision has been made based on the advice of Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health - Click here to view the announcement.
At this time, there is no anticipated date for a return to in-person learning. The government has advised that data will be assessed on an ongoing basis, in consultation with health officials, to determine when a safe return to in-person learning is possible.
SCHEDULES FOR LEARNING FOLLOWING THE BREAK
Virtual Schools – Elementary and Secondary
For students previously enrolled in virtual learning (elementary or secondary) online instruction will resume on April 19, 2021 according to the previously established schedule.
Elementary (Kindergarten – Grade 8)
April 19, 2021 - Afternoon Only
Parents/Guardians can expect that educators will connect with their students in the afternoon using board approved platforms.
Schedules for the week, assignments and information will be sent from the school/educator to each student/family via Edsby, Microsoft Teams, and/or board email.
As in the past, real-time learning will be facilitated through Microsoft Teams, Zoom or Brightspace.
General Timelines
As in the past, when remote learning resumes:
Kindergarten students should be able to access up to 180 minutes of learning each day.
Students in Grades 1-8 should be able to access up to 225 minutes of learning each day.
Secondary (Grades 9-12)
April 19, 2021 – Day 1 of Quadmester 4 – Classes in Afternoon Only
On the first day back, there will be no classes in the morning.
The afternoon schedule will be as follows.
1:30 pm – 2:45 pm Course 7 Online
2:45 pm – 4:00 pm Course 8 Online
Moving forward from April 20, 2021 onwards:
Students in Grades 9-12 will continue to follow the same schedule that has been in place during past periods of remote learning
All students will be expected to engage in online learning in the morning (Blocks 1 and 2) every day.
Lunch break will be 60 minutes.
Students attending All Saints and Msgr. John Pereyma Catholic Secondary Schools will continue to follow their current schedule and start times of 8:50 a.m. (All Saints) and 9:00 a.m. (Pereyma) as noted on their schools’ websites.
Daily Schedule – Secondary Schools (excluding All Saints and Msgr. John Pereyma CSS)
Program Support Teachers will connect with the parents/guardians of our students with exceptional education needs beginning on April 19, 2021 in order to confirm programming needs and to put the necessary accommodations in place. Where required and appropriate, elementary and secondary students with the highest special needs who have been attending in person on a daily basis during past periods of remote learning, will be provided with the opportunity to return to in-person learning (for the full day) starting on April 21, 2021.
Technology Needs
Where access to technology is a barrier, families can contact their school on April 19, 2021 for support.
For technical support on board issued devices or applications such as Edsby, D2L/Brightspace, Office 365, etc., please email TechnologySupport@dcdsb.ca. In your email, please explain the issue you are experiencing such as password reset, along with your child’s full legal name, student User ID, date of birth, school name, grade and phone number where we can contact you.
Additional Ministry Supports for Learning
As a reminder TVO Learn and TFO IDÉLLO, apprendre à la maison, provides supports for students learning remotely. You can access these additional educational resources developed by Ontario certified teachers to support learning.
I wish you all a safe and healthy break and encourage all those who are currently eligible to obtain the vaccine. More information on vaccination appointments is available on the Durham Region Health Department website.
Yours in faith,
Tracy Barill Director of Education
April 9 - Confirmation of Self Assessment to be Completed on Monday, April 19, 2021
April 9, 2021
Dear Parents and Guardians,
In order to limit the spread of Covid-19 when school resumes on Monday, April 19, 2021, each student (Kindergarten – Grade 8) must return a signed copy of the confirmation of self assessment found on the back of this letter.
On the morning of Monday, April 19, 2021, before sending your child to school please:
Screen your child(ren) for any COVID-19 symptoms;
Provide your child’s information (name, grade, teacher’s name); and
Sign the bottom of the form to confirm that your child has passed the self assessment and is clear to come to school.
If your child does not pass the screening, please ensure that your child does not come to school.
For further information – access the online Ministry of Education Screening Tool (https://covid-19.ontario.ca/school-screening/) and follow the directions outlined in the self-screening tool in order to keep everyone safe.
Thank you for your cooperation as we help stop the spread of COVID-19.
April 1 - Schools Remain Open following Easter Weekend
April 1, 2021
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Today the Ministry of Education advised school boards across Ontario that there is no intention to move to remote learning following the Easter holidays and April break. Students currently attending in-person school will continue to attend classes for the four days next week from April 6-9, 2021.
The Spring Break for all students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 in both virtual and face to face learning is still scheduled to take place as planned from April 12 – 16, 2021.
While we cannot predict what the future will hold, the Ministry of Education has advised that they are planning for schools to re-open and for students to return to in-person learning on Monday, April 19, 2021 following the break.
As a reminder, please ensure that you have completed the province’s COVID-19 school screening tool for your child prior to attending school. Please contact your school’s office if you have questions or need assistance.
Yours in Faith,
Tracy Barill, Director of Education
March 31, 2021 - Preparing for the Easter Long Weekend
March 31, 2021
Dear Parents and Guardians,
As we prepare for the holiest days of our Liturgical calendar – the celebration of the Passion, Death and Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, I encourage families to continue to follow public health safety guidelines as we celebrate our faith this weekend. Let us continue to pray that the ongoing challenges related to the pandemic will soon be over.
While we have not been notified of an anticipated school closure following the Easter weekend or April break, we are encouraging students to bring home all personal belongings, technology or school supplies in the event that we are required to shift to online learning. Thank you for your ongoing cooperation and understanding as we endeavour to prepare for all possible outcomes following the long weekend.
This weekend, I encourage you to look after your social, emotional and physical well-being. Take a mental health moment or time to relax, read a book, go for a walk or connect with friends and family virtually.
When we return to school, please remember to complete the province’s COVID-19 school screening tool and do not attend school if your child or a family member in your household is feeling ill.
We will continue to monitor the situation and provide families with updates as information becomes available. May the love of God and the power of prayer bring a sense of calmness to your family this Easter season.
Yours in Faith,
Tracy Barill, Director of Education
March 11, 2021 - Day of Remembrance Recognizing the One-Year Anniversary of COVID-19
March 11, 2021
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Today marks the one-year anniversary of the World Health Organization’s declaration of the global pandemic. The world has changed drastically during this time. COVID-19 has impacted all of us in different ways, while causing massive disruptions to families, society and the economy.
This year has been one of tremendous challenge. The most troubling of which has been the significant loss of life that has occurred. Many members of our own Durham Catholic community have experienced tremendous pain and suffering since the onset of the pandemic. In some cases, the loss has been directly related to COVID-19, while others have lost loved ones and have been deprived of the physical, in person supports that would normally be put in place during times of mourning.
Today is a special day of remembrance when as a country we reflect upon and pray for all those who have died, knowing that we will always keep our loved ones close to our hearts.
Together, we have faced challenges, while adapting to remote learning. We embraced virtual meetings, Zoom, Edsby and D2L. We listened to our families’ needs and provided supports. We developed summer programs to help students bridge the gaps in learning. In September, we welcomed students back to school for in-person learning with enhanced safety measures, launched virtual elementary and secondary schools, and introduced quadmesters. In December, we shifted back to online learning and recently added hybrid learning at the secondary level. A special thank you to all of you, our families for your patience during these unprecedent times.
During all this, we continue to witness large and small acts of kindness and generosity – from our students and staff making face shields with our 3D printers and sewing masks, to the board’s donation of masks and safety supplies to Lakeridge Health, to students recording videos to bring smiles to residents in senior homes, to staff delivering technology, supplies and food to our families in need, and students and families writing messages of love, faith and hope. The outpouring of love and willingness to help others is a true testament to our Catholic values and beliefs.
As we look ahead, the rollout of vaccines offers us hope for a brighter future. As it will take time to vaccinate everyone against COVID-19, we must remain vigilant and adhere to the safety measures by maintaining physical distancing, wearing masks, and practicing hand hygiene to ensure we stay safe.
Let us continue to pray for the health and safety of our school communities.
Yours in faith,
Morgan Ste. Marie Tracy Barill Chair of the Board Director of Education
February 22, 2021 - Additional COVID-19 Safety Measures in Effect Across Ontario
February 22, 2021
Dear Parents and Guardians,
I want to inform you of recently added COVID-19 safety measures in schools and child cares that are now in effect across Ontario. The new measures build on the existing ones that have been in place since September, and have been added due to the risk of COVID-19 variants.
Parents and guardians have an important role to play in making sure the new measures are followed, and will require us all to be even more diligent. The most significant changes are:
Students and staff with any new or worsening symptom of COVID-19, even those with only one symptom, must stay home, without exemption, until:
The symptomatic individual receives a negative COVID-19 test result, or
The symptomatic individual receives an alternate diagnosis by a health care professional
If there is no test or alternate diagnosis, the symptomatic individual must isolate for 10 days from symptom onset, and all other household members must isolate for 14 days from their last contact with the symptomatic individual.
Asymptomatic household contacts of symptomatic individuals: Quarantine, do not leave home.
All asymptomatic household contacts of symptomatic individuals are required to quarantine, until the symptomatic individual receives a negative COVID-19 test result, or an alternative diagnosis by a health care professional.
If the symptomatic individual does not seek COVID-19 testing they should be treated as if they have COVID-19 and all household contacts must quarantine for 14 days from their last contact with that symptomatic individual.
We ask that you continue to self-monitor your child(ren) for signs and symptoms of COVID-19. This includes completing the daily self-assessment for symptoms before attending school: https://covid-19.ontario.ca/school-screening/
We remain vigilant to protecting the health and safety of our students and staff and continue to work with the Durham Region Health Department to follow the new safety measurements.
Yours in Faith,
Tracy Barill Director of Education
February 12, 2021 - Board Designated Holiday Scheduled for Friday, March 12, 2021
February 12, 2021
Dear Parents and Guardians,
On February 11, 2021, the Minister of Education, Stephen Lecce announced that March Break would be postponed until April 12 -16, 2021 to prevent the spread of COVID-19. In yesterday’s letter, we noted that Friday, March 12, 2021 is a scheduled board designated holiday. Today, I am confirming that we will still go ahead with the scheduled board holiday on Friday, March 12, 2021. Do not send your children to school on this date.
As we head into the long Family Day weekend, I extend my heartfelt thanks to all our Durham Catholic families for your continued cooperation. May you take the time to rest this weekend and find ways to connect with loved ones.
God bless you and your families.
Yours in Faith,
Tracy Barill Director of Education
February 11, 2021- Ministry of Education Delays March Break
February 11, 2021
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Today, Education Minister Stephen Lecce announced that March Break will be delayed for schools across Ontario until April, to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Click here to view the announcement.
Our March Break, which was originally scheduled for March 15-19, has been delayed for a month and will now take place from April 12-16. This means that classes will continue uninterrupted through all of March. The new break schedule applies to both in-person and virtual learners.
We recognize also that Friday, March 12 is currently designated on the calendar as a board holiday for students. We are reviewing this date in light of today’s announcement and will confirm our plan with families as soon as possible.
We understand that our students and staff, with the support of parents and families have been working hard this year to continue the learning under very unusual circumstances and that many have been looking forward to a scheduled break. While this delay may be disappointing, we appreciate the importance of following the recommendations of the Chief Medical Officer to control the spread of COVID-19 and protect the members of our community.
Staff members have been pleased to welcome students as they returned to the classroom this week for in-person learning and appreciate your cooperation in following the health and safety protocols that are in place to keep everyone safe.
Yours in Catholic Faith,
Tracy Barill
Director of Education
February 10, 2021 - Last Opportunity for Families of Elementary Students to Request Switch in Learning Models
February 10, 2021
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Today I am writing to provide families with information on the last opportunity for families of elementary students to request a switch from in-person to virtual learning or virtual to in-person learning this school year. We will attempt to approve all requests; however, requests will be dependent on staffing and available class space.
Requesting a Switch to Learning Models
If you want to switch your child from in-person to virtual learning or virtual school to in-person learning, please contact your current school principal by Thursday, February 18 at 12:00 noon and have your child’s name added to the waitlist.
It’s important to understand, that by requesting this transfer you are committing to remaining in your requested learning model for the remainder of the school year. No additional transfers will be possible this school year.
Any requests to switch learning models received after February 18 at 12:00 noon will be denied and new waitlists will not be created.
Our staff will review all requests to change learning models by March 1, 2021 and will notify families if their request can be accommodated.
I do not want to switch learning models
If you do not want to switch your current mode of learning, then you do not have to do anything. Your child will remain in their current learning model for the remainder of the school year.
Thank you for your ongoing patience as we finalize this last opportunity for elementary students to transfer modes of learning. If you have any questions, please contact your child’s school principal. I encourage you to continue to follow our www.dcdsb.ca/returntolearning web page for the latest information.
Yours in Faith,
Tracy Barill Director of Education
Updated Masking and Screening Requirements Effective February 8, 2021
Masking
Masking is now mandatory for all students in Grades 1-3, subject to reasonable exceptions. This masking requirement is in addition to the existing requirement for students in Grades 4-12. Where physical distancing is not possible during outdoor activities, masking will be required for students in Grades 1-12. Students in Kindergarten are strongly encouraged to wear a mask. Families are encouraged to send two masks to school each day for each child (one for indoor and one for outdoor use).
Starting Monday, February 8, 2021, masks must be worn on the school bus, as well as outdoors at bus stops, by students in Kindergarten-Grade 12.
Screening
All students and staff are required to conduct daily screening for symptoms of COVID-19 before attending school using the COVID-19 school screening tool.
PLEASE DO NOT SEND YOUR CHILD TO SCHOOL IF THEY HAVE SYMPTOMS OR HAVE NOT PASSED THE SELF ASSESSMENT.
For ease of access students, a direct link to the Covid-19 school self-screening tool is now available on the DCDSB app. Parents/guardians, students and staff with mobile devices are encouraged to download the DCDSB app from Apple App Store or Google Play. The app can be located by searching “Durham Catholic District School Board”.
The self-screening tool can also be accessed at www.dcdsb.ca.
February 3, 2021 - Return to In-Class Learning
February 3, 2021
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Today the Ministry of Education, with recommendations from the Chief Medical Officer of Health, and local public health units, announced that elementary and secondary schools in the Durham Catholic District School Board will re-open for in-class instruction on Monday, February 8, 2021. Click here to view the announcement.
Effective Monday, February 8, 2021, students enrolled in in-class learning will return to the classroom with enhanced protocols and routines in place that will support the health, safety and well-being of all members of our Catholic learning community.
Students enrolled in our elementary or secondary virtual learning schools are not impacted by this announcement.
In accordance with the Ministry of Education and public health officials, the following enhanced health and safety measures will be in place when schools re-open, in addition to the layers of protection that were already in place since September 2020.
Masking
Masking is now mandatory for all students in Grades 1-3, subject to reasonable exceptions. This masking requirement is in addition to the existing requirement for students in Grades 4-12. Where physical distancing is not possible during outdoor activities, masking will be required for students in Grades 1-12. Students in Kindergarten are strongly encouraged to wear a mask. Families are encouraged to send two masks to school each day for each child (one for indoor and one for outdoor use).
Starting Monday, February 8, 2021, masks must be worn on the school bus, as well as outdoors at bus stops, by students in Kindergarten-Grade 12.
Screening
All students and staff are required to conduct daily screening for symptoms of COVID-19 before attending school using the COVID-19 school screening tool.
PLEASE DO NOT SEND YOUR CHILD TO SCHOOL IF THEY HAVE SYMPTOMS OR HAVE NOT PASSED THE SELF ASSESSMENT.
For ease of access students, a direct link to the Covid-19 school self-screening tool is now available on the DCDSB app. Parents/guardians, students and staff with mobile devices are encouraged to download the DCDSB app from Apple App Store or Google Play. The app can be located by searching “Durham Catholic District School Board”.
The self-screening tool can also be accessed at www.dcdsb.ca.
Confirmation of Self-Assessment for Secondary Students
All secondary students will be required to confirm that self-screening has been completed each day. This can be confirmed verbally as students enter their classroom, or by showing the green check mark that appears on their device after completing the self-assessment.
Alternate arrangements will be made by the school for secondary students with special needs who do not have the capacity to conduct/confirm their own self-assessment.
Congregating
To support provincial efforts to stop further spread of COVID-19, schools will focus on the prevention of students congregating during non-instructional time, such as recess and before/after school. Parents and guardians are asked to reinforce this important information with their children.
Parents, guardians and caregivers who are dropping off and picking up students are asked to refrain from gathering, and adhere to physical distancing protocols at all times. The use of masks/face coverings are strongly encouraged for all parents/guardians even when outside.
Expanded Targeted Testing
The Ministry will be expanding targeted testing for students, staff and their respective households in high-priority areas that are experiencing high levels of community transmission and outbreaks. More information will be forthcoming if/when testing sites are established.
Child Care Centres
Child care centres operating within our DCDSB schools will be open. Please contact your child care centre directly to confirm before and after school programming.
Transportation
Bus transportation will resume its normal operating schedule on Monday, February 8, 2021. Students in Kindergarten-Grade 12 will continue to wear masks on school buses, as well as outdoor bus stops. Screening must be completed prior to boarding the bus each morning.
We are excited to welcome students back to the classroom, and will continue to promote strategies that encourage positive mental health and well-being. Thank you for your cooperation during this time as we work together for a safe return to school. May we continue to pray for the health and safety of our school communities.
Yours in Catholic Faith,
Tracy Barill
Director of Education
January 20, 2021 - Online Learning Extended for Elementary and Secondary Students
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Today the provincial government announced that based on the recommendations of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, elementary and secondary students in the Durham Catholic District School Board will continue to engage in teacher-led online learning on January 25, 2021.
While we have not been notified of an anticipated date for return to in-class learning, we are advised that the next timing for consideration of school reopening will be February 10, 2021.
We will continue to monitor the situation and provide families with updates with the most current information available.
Thank you for your cooperation and understanding as we endeavour to support these enhanced measures to keep our community safe during this provincial state of emergency. Please join me in praying for the sick and all those who have experienced loss or suffering as a result of the pandemic.
Our office phones continue to be monitored should you or your child be in need of assistance.
Tracy Barill
Director of Education
Elementary School
UPDATED January 7, 2021
Late this afternoon the government announced that elementary students in Southern Ontario will continue to engage in teacher-led online learning from January 11 to 22, 2021. The new anticipated date for return to in-class learning for both elementary and secondary students is Monday, January 25, 2021.Click here to view the announcement. This decision has been made as a result of a sharp increase in the number of positive Covid-19 cases being confirmed in the province.
Note that Friday, January 15, 2021 is designated as a Professional Activity (PA) Day for elementary school staff, which means there will be no online class instruction scheduled for elementary students on that day. Secondary programming will continue as scheduled.
Technology Needs
Where access to technology is a barrier, families should contact the school for support.
For technical support on board issued devices or applications such as Edsby, D2L/Brightspace, Office 365, etc., please email TechnologySupport@dcdsb.ca and explain the issue you are experiencing such as password reset. Please include in the email, the student name, student User ID, date of birth, school name, grade and phone number where we can contact you.
Edsby Support for Parents/Guardians/Students
Instructional videos are available for parents/guardians/students online at: https://dcdsb.ca/Edsby
Additional Ministry Supports for Learning
Parents/Guardians are reminded that the Ministry of Education recently announced the launch of two new portals, TVO Learn and TFO IDÉLLO, apprendre à la maison, which provide supports for students learning remotely by accessing additional educational resources developed by Ontario certified teachers.
SCHEDULE FOR LEARNING
Elementary (Kindergarten – Grade 8)
January 4, 2021 - Afternoon
Parents/Guardians can expect that educators will connect with their students in the afternoon using board approved platforms
Schedules for the week, assignments and information will be sent from the school/educator to each student/family via Edsby and/or board email
Real-time learning will be done through Microsoft Teams, Zoom or Brightspace
January 5-8, 2021
Educators will post work online every day for those students who cannot connect in real time
At the beginning of the week, the teacher will post the online learning schedule for each day (including French and the subjects taught by itinerant teachers) and provide any necessary links for their Zoom/Microsoft Teams sessions
Instruction will generally follow the regular school schedule online (i.e., start and end times, lunch etc.)
During some of the time, educators will conduct lessons online, at other times they will be available to answer questions and provide feedback
General Timelines:
Kindergarten students should be able to access up to 180 minutes of learning each day.
Students in Grades 1-8 should be able to access up to 225 minutes of learning each day.
Secondary School
Schedule for Learning Secondary (Grades 9-12)
Beginning January 4, 2021 and continuing until Secondary schools reopen on January 25, 2021 students in Grades 9-12 will continue to follow the same schedule that was in place prior to the Christmas Weekly Schedule Break with the following important exceptions:
1. All students will be expected to engage in online learning in the morning (Blocks 1 and 2) every day.
2. Lunch break will be 60 minutes.
3. Students attending All Saints and Msgr. John Pereyma Catholic Secondary Schools will continue to follow their current schedule and start times of 8:50 a.m. (All Saints) and 9:00 a.m. (Pereyma) as noted on their schools’ websites.
Daily Schedule for all Secondary Schools (except All Saint and Msgr. Pereyma)
*The modification to the January 18-22, 2021 schedule has been made to balance the number of minutes of instruction for each course.
Virtual Elementary and Secondary Schools
Schedule for Learning
Virtual Schools – Elementary and Secondary
For students previously enrolled in virtual learning (elementary or secondary) online instruction will resume on January 4, 2021 according to the previously established schedule.
Students with Exceptional Special Education Needs
Program Support Teachers will connect with the parents/guardians of our students with exceptional education needs beginning on January 4, 2021 in order to discuss programming needs and to put the necessary accommodations in place. Where required and appropriate, secondary students with the highest special needs who have been attending on a daily, extended schedule will be provided with the opportunity to attend school in-person starting on January 11, 2021.
Attendance
During the period of remote learning, it is requested that parents/guardians continue to report absences using our board’s Safe Arrival program.
While the instructional minutes listed above for Elementary students (Kindergarten – Grade 8) must be provided, it is understood that during the week of January 4-8, 2021, not all students may be able to be online for the full 180/225mins.
If a student connects any time during the day they should be marked as present.
If a parent/guardian indicates that the student will not be connecting synchronously but will be doing the work at home, they will also be marked as present.
Secondary students are expected to connect online during each block in order to be marked as present.
Information for September 2020
Class Size
The board will be working with its various partners and using reserve funds as permitted by the Ministry to direct resources towards the lowering of class sizes in our schools for in-class learning.
In Secondary schools, for face-to-face learning classes will be divided with up to approximately 15 students attending at a time.
In Elementary, we will re-model our staffing in each school after we have determined our new enrolment levels.
Working with our custodians, we have determined the number of desks that can be fit in each learning space while still maintaining a distance of at least one metre. We will ensure that classes are not loaded beyond that amount, however our goal will be to make classes smaller wherever possible.
While there may be some exceptions, our goal for in-class learning is to work towards maximum class sizes of:
Kindergarten: 22
Grades 1-3: 20
Grades 4-8: 25
Health and Safety for All Elementary and Secondary Schools
If a student develops symptoms during the school day, they will be immediately isolated and a call will be made to their parent/guardian to have them picked up
All staff will be required to wear a level 1 surgical/procedural mask and where close contact is required, they may have additional personal protective equipment
Students from Grades 4-12 will be required to wear face coverings/non-medical masks indoors in school (these should be sent to school with each child)
Primary children (Kindergarten – Grade 3) will not be required to wear masks but will not be prohibited from doing so
Breaks will be built into the school day where students and staff can physically distance and remove their masks for periods of time (e.g., outdoor recess, outdoor instructional periods)
Protective protocols including physical distancing and hand hygiene will be taught and practiced at school
Hand sanitizing stations and pumps will be available in the school and for all classes where there is no sink
Water fountains will not be used; students will be encouraged to bring water bottles and use the water re-filling stations in the school
Enhanced cleaning of high contact surfaces and washrooms will be implemented
Assemblies and large gatherings will not occur
Visitors to the school will be limited and upon appointment
Where visitors are permitted, they will be limited to designated areas within the school and will be required to wear masks and sanitize their hands
Should a student or staff member exhibit symptoms, the school will work with the public health department to contact trace and test
In the event of an outbreak, there may be a need to transition to online learning for a period of time
Well-Being and Mental Health
Student and staff well-being and mental health will be a priority as we return to schools
Self-care resources will be made available to all staff to support personal resiliency and well-being
Evidence-based strategies tailored to elementary and secondary levels will be shared with all educators to support the general well-being and mental health of all students (e.g., movement break activities, social-emotional learning videos)
Additional resources from School Mental Health Ontario will be shared to support students as they return to school
Students with Special Education Needs
Students with special education needs will be supported in both the in-person and online models through the classroom teacher, program support teacher and other school-based supports deemed necessary
Schools will be communicating with parents/guardians, before the start of the school year, regarding transition opportunities for students with special education needs
Resources have been made available to educators to support students with special education needs in adapting to the changes in the physical environment and health and safety protocols (e.g., social stories, visual aids/prompts)
Safe return for students who are medically fragile will be supported through consultation with Public Health in partnership with parents/guardians
Individual Education Plans (IEPs) will be reviewed and updated, taking the adapted school environment into account when developing strategies for learning
Students using Assistive Technology will be supported with any technology issues and training as needed through their Program Support Teachers and Board Assistive Technologists
Hearing and vision resource teachers will be in regular contact with the students on their caseloads and their educators to ensure a smooth transition and will provide ongoing support throughout the school year
Click here for information about Special Education and the Return to Learning for September 2020.
Student Services
Student Services staff members will support the re-opening of schools through consultation with educators and working directly to deliver and support programs that benefit all students in the areas of self-regulation, stress management and social-emotional learning
Regulated health professionals (i.e., Social Workers, Psychometrists and Psychologists) will deliver in-person and/or online, school-based supports for those on their caseloads, following the required health and safety protocols
Outside service providers will be allowed access to the school in order to provide service to the students on their caseloads, following the required health and safety protocols
Click here for information about Special Education and the Return to Learning for September 2020.
Special Education
Click here for information about Special Education and the Return to Learning for September 2020.
Elementary Schools (including Grade 7-8 students attending a Grade 7-12 school)
Students in Kindergarten – Grade 8 will return to school on a full-day, five days per week model (this includes grade 7-8 students at Monsignor John Pereyma and All Saints Catholic Secondary Schools)
Due to busing restrictions, some changes to start and finish times at individual schools may need to be altered but the school day will still be comprised of five (5) hours of instruction plus lunch and recess breaks
Instruction will be provided in all subject areas as outlined in the Ontario Curriculum however, as a result of health and safety measures, some of our curriculum delivery may need to be modified
As a result of health and safety measures, some of our curriculum delivery may be modified to meet the needs of our students and staff members
Students will be limited to their own class cohorts and not mix with other classes
Within their classroom, students may share toys or equipment but will be instructed on washing their hands before and after use
Where necessary, (for example to receive French instruction) teachers will rotate into the classroom (students will stay in their own room)
Staggered entries and designated outdoor play areas will also be utilized to minimize contacts
Educators will be encouraged to utilize outdoor space for instruction wherever appropriate and possible
Secondary Schools (Grades 9-12)
The Durham Catholic District School Board has been classified as a “designated school board” by the Ministry of Education which means that secondary students in our Board will be returning to school on an alternate day model
Students will be taught in cohorts of approximately 15 students every other day
A quadmester system will be in place. In the quadmester, the year will be broken into four blocks of time
Instead of taking four courses at a time (as is the practice for a semestered system) students will take only two courses at a time which will assist in limiting contacts
The secondary courses will include both in-class and online learning
The daily schedule will be condensed and families will be notified of the condensed schedule prior to the start of the school year.
Online Learning
An online learning program will be available to families who choose not to have their children return to school
Online learning in September will include the full curriculum
Students who opt for online learning will be placed in a virtual class that may include students from multiple schools
These classes will be formed according to the class sizes that are utilized in regular schools and will be assigned a classroom teacher
Students will be required to connect daily and will be provided with a schedule for learning
Real time or “synchronous” learning will be a part of the online program
The Ontario policy - Growing Success: Assessment, Evaluation and Reporting in Ontario Schools K-12 will guide assessment practices
Switching from Online to In-Class Learning
Families who choose to begin the school year in the online program, may not be able to flexibly return to in-class learning
The board will be required to maintain cohorts and monitor the number of students in each class which may limit the ability to admit new or returning students upon request
This means that depending upon available space, individuals may be required to wait for a designated transition time to return to in-class learning.
Transportation
Families of students who are eligible for Durham Student Transportation Services (DSTS), please visit www.dsts.on.ca for information about busing and to complete the DSTS transportation survey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Technical Support for Remote Learning
If you require technical support on Board issued devices or applications such as Edsby, D2L/Brightspace, Office 365, etc., please email TechnologySupport@dcdsb.ca and explain the issue you are experiencing.
For example: If you required a PASSWORD RESET, please include in the email:
the student full legal name
student User ID (if you know it)
date of birth
school name
grade
home address
and phone number on file where we can contact you.
Minimum technical requirements for online learning:
Internet access
A microphone and speaker on the device such as computer/laptop, iPad, Chromebook
A webcam would be helpful, but not required. Usually laptops, Chromebooks and iPads has a camera built-in
A camera may be required to submit school work depending on the program you are taking.
Google Chrome browser preferable. Google Chrome browser would be used to connect to Office 365, Edsby, D2L/Brightspace
Your teacher will let you know any other requirements
Edsby
New to our schools? Every day, we are sending an Email with an Edsby invitation to those parents that doesn't have an Edsby account. If you did not receive the invitation by 10:00 am, please:
Check your Email junk/spam folder
Contact your home school to check if your Email is in our Student Information System
How do I sign my child up for in-class or online learning?
An link to your child’s survey was sent by e-mail.
Parents and guardians who have not received an e-mail to confirm their child’s enrolment for in-class or online learning should reach out to communications@dcdsb.ca as soon as possible to meet the August 12, 2020 deadline.
What if parents/guardians change their decision about sending their child to school based on rising COVID-19 rates?
As per the Ministry guidelines, in-school attendance will be voluntary and is based on parent choice.
Families may opt to have their children continue full-time online learning. It would be important for parents to notify their child’s school if they make a change in their arrangement.
After August 12, 2020, requests to transition from one model to the other may require some wait time such as a natural break in the school year, Christmas/March Break for example.
How will teachers adapt the curriculum to account for the three-month gap in learning from March to June?
As we return to school in September, educators will be focused on determining where student learning gaps may exist and providing supports that students may need in terms of extra help or differentiated instruction.
How will my child work with the Program Support Teacher, Educational Assistant and/or additional resource teachers?
Students with special needs will continue to receive support as required in keeping with health and safety protocols for in-class learning. For online learning, arrangements will be made at the school level to determine how support can be provided to meet individual needs.
Will additional child care and/or before and after school spots be available in your schools?
Child care centres with existing partnerships within our schools will continue to operate. Please contact individual child care providers for information and availability.
Will there be extra-curriculars available this year for athletics, arts, field trips, academic clubs and/or other activities?
As the school year begins, we will be focused on the safe resumption of instruction. Once classes resume, in conversation with our local Public Health Department, we will examine the feasibility of extra-curricular activities that can be done in a way that minimizes risk of transmission.
Will in-class students who develop COVID-related symptoms or require isolation be moved to the online learning environment?
If students are absent from in-class learning due to illness or the need to isolate, they will continue to receive instruction and work from their classroom teacher that can be completed at home if/when he or she is able to do so.
Will parent-teacher meetings take place for in-class and/or online learning models?
Educators will be in contact with parents and guardians about student progress as per common practice. However, in keeping with the direction from public health officials to minimize the number of visitors entering the school, parent-teacher meetings will be scheduled online or by phone rather than in-person. Educators and administrators will work with families to ensure a safe meeting environment can be established.
Health and Safety for In-Class Learning (Elementary and Secondary)
What are the enhanced health protocols that will be put in place if students are to return to school?
Although we cannot eliminate the exposure to COVID-19, we are taking extra precautions for the protection of students and staff by following the recommendations of the Durham Region Health Department and preventing exposure.
According the public health officials, the following are the main ways we can prevent the spread of COVID-19:
Daily self- assessment for COVID-19 before arriving at work/school
Self-isolate when necessary
Physical distancing whenever possible from others
Hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette
Enhanced cleaning and disinfection
Personal protective equipment when appropriate
The measures we will have in place at each of our schools to protect students and staff include:
Self-Screening of Students and Staff
A self-assessment must be completed by all individuals prior to entering the school.
Parents and guardians must perform daily screening of their child(ren) for COVID-19 symptoms before leaving for school using COVID-19 Self-Assessment.
Check your child’s temperature to ensure they do not have a fever (temperature greater than 37.8 degrees Celsius)
Monitor for signs and symptoms (including atypical symptoms) of COVID-19
If showing signs or symptoms, the student and other household members must stay home, and the school must be notified.
If your child shows signs or symptoms of COVID-19 or has come into close contact with anyone suspected or confirmed to have COVID-19, they cannot come to school. They must self-isolate and be tested for COVID-19.
Designated entry and exit doors will be established in every school.
Physical distancing signs will be posted at all common entrances.
Students will practice physical distancing as they enter the school.
Staggered entry into the school, for example, alternating even and odd grades so there are fewer students in the hallway at a time.
What safety measures will be in place in the classroom, washrooms, hallways etc?
Each school will develop a detailed protocol for the various areas within their individual school which will reflect the hierarchy of controls including but not limited to:
Hand hygiene – sinks and sanitizers
Physical distancing
Maximum capacities
Screening
Enhanced cleaning
Controlled directional movement
Limiting congregation of students by staggering and designating zones
Ongoing consultation with public health
Removal of carpets, soft furniture etc.
Designated seating
Signage
No access to playground structures
Sports equipment/toys will be maintained by individual classes and cleaned between usage.
To assist with the above, additional custodians are being hired by the board.
Will soap and hand sanitizer be available at the school?
Hand sanitizer dispensers will be available by the front door of every school, and at other points in the school.
Hand sanitizer pump dispensers will be provided in all classrooms without a sink, including portable classrooms.
Hand soap will be provided in all classrooms with a sink.
All handwashing locations have either a hand dryer or paper towel dispenser.
How will physical distancing be maintained at school?
Staff and students will practice physical distancing as recommended by public health officials.
The importance of physical distancing will be reinforced daily announcements, signage, supervision, and physical barriers where possible.
What Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) requirements will be in place for students and staff?
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is protective clothing or equipment designed to protect one’s body from injury or infection. PPE can include gloves, masks, face shields, gowns, safety shoes etc. PPE is not a substitute for other preventative measures such as physical distancing, hand hygiene or COVID-19 testing.
The Ministry of Education has mandated that students in Grades 4-12 will be required to wear non-medical or cloth masks while in school. Students in Kindergarten to Grade 3 will be encouraged, but not required to wear masks in indoor spaces.
Surgical/Medical masks and face shields will be provided for teachers and all other school staff, to be used when physical distancing can’t be maintained. Additional PPE will be available for other situations as needed.
What enhanced cleaning and disinfection protocols will be implemented in schools?
All high-touch points* will be disinfected twice daily and when visibly dirty. *High-touch points include doorknobs, light switches, push plates, panic bars, handrails, elevator buttons, faucet handles, flush handles, stall latches, product dispensers, paper towel dispensers, benches and bottle fillers.
Disinfectant wipes and/or disinfectant spray will be provided in the classroom for disinfection of high-touch items in the classroom throughout the day.
Staff rooms will be cleaned daily in the evenings. Disinfectant wipes and/or disinfectant spray will be provided for intraday disinfection as required.
Gymnasiums will be cleaned daily in the evenings. Disinfectant wipes or no-touch disinfectant spray will be provided for intraday disinfection as required.
Hand hygiene and disinfection station resources will be inspected daily and restocked as needed.
Do our classrooms and portables have proper air quality?
Each of our classrooms, including all portables, use mechanical ventilation systems to provide fresh air to classrooms. However, classroom staff may opt to open windows at their own discretion.
How will students in portable classrooms wash their hands?
We will be providing hand hygiene stations in all of our classrooms across each of our schools. Any classrooms with a sink will have hand soap and water. Any rooms without sinks (including portable classrooms) will be provided with hand sanitizer. We will also be setting up hand sanitizer stations in other areas such as lobbies and offices across the board.
What is the protocol regarding agendas going back and forth from home to school?
All home-school communication will take place electronically via Edsby and School Messenger (e-mail). Alternative arrangements will be made upon request at the start of the school year by contacting your child’s teacher by phone.
Will students have access to common areas such as the cafeteria and Learning Commons?
Common areas such as the cafeteria and Learning Commons may be re-purposed but will not be used on a drop-in basis.
My child is in a wheelchair and/or has other mobility needs. Can he or she use the elevator in the school?
Accommodations will be made for students with accessibility needs while maintaining health and safety protocols in the school.
In-Class Learning for Elementary Students (Kindergarten to Grade 8)
Elementary schools (Kindergarten to Grade 8) will re-open in September and students will return to the classroom every day, with class sizes that reflect current guidelines, and enhanced health and safety protocols put in place.
How many elementary students will be together in a class?
Classes will be formed in accordance with the mandated provincial class size requirements.
Kindergarten: Average class size of 26 (with two educators)
Grades 1-3: Soft cap of 20; hard cap of 23
Grades 4-8: Average class size of 24.5
Notwithstanding the above, we will make every effort to keep all class sizes as small as possible while always ensuring the maximum capacity of each classroom. A 1m distance between desks will be maintained.
What types of physical distancing measures will be enforced in elementary schools?
Visual Cues
Physical distancing in elementary schools will involve spreading students into different areas; and using visual cues such as signage and tape on the floor, corridors, washrooms and outside areas.
Supervision
Staff will review physical distancing procedures with students as they return to school and enter the classroom. These guidelines will be monitored and enforced throughout the instructional day, including lunch and recess.
Outdoor Education
Physical education and other classes will be scheduled outdoors as much as possible.
Lunch and Recess
Lunch and recess schedules may vary by individual schools based on space and the number of students in the school.
In general, students who stay for lunch will remain with their classmates with physical distancing measures in place.
Recess breaks will be scheduled in small groups.
Will school bell times change?
In order to accommodate lowered capacity of students who use Durham Student Transportation Services (DSTS), bell times for some schools may change. Bell time changes will be communicated to parents and guardians by the end of August.
Other Considerations
Students are encouraged to minimize the number of personal belongings that are brought to the classroom. Any belongings that are brought to school, such as backpacks, prescription glasses, and other essentials, should be labelled and kept in the student’s designated area and brought home at the end of each day.
In-Class Learning for Secondary Students (Grade 9 to 12)
Secondary schools will re-open for in-class learning under adapted conditions to promote physical distancing by cohorts of up to 15 students per class.
What types of physical distancing measures will be enforced in secondary schools?
Maintaining a limit of 15 students in a classroom at one time.
Adopting timetables to allow, as much as possible, for students to remain in contact with only their classmates (cohort) and a single teacher.
Alternate day or week delivery to segment the class into smaller student cohorts.
An adapted timetable model based on a quadmester system that will support smaller student cohorts.
An adapted delivery of subjects such as French, art, music, and physical education in order to limit the rotation of teachers.
Visual cues such as signage and floor markings in corridors, washrooms and other common areas.
Staff will review physical distancing procedures with students as they return to school and enter the classroom. These guidelines will be monitored and enforced throughout the instructional day.
Lunch
Secondary students will not be eating lunch at school. Students may bring snacks of their own and will be discouraged from sharing food. Students will attend for 150 minutes of instruction and then will be dismissed with follow-up online learning to take place from home.
Will the first day of school be a Grade 9 Orientation day for secondary students?
All grades will attend the first day of school according to their cohort. The first week will include an orientation for all students with a focus on health and well-being. Students transitioning from Grade 8 to Grade 9 will continue to have the opportunity to participate in the Head Start Program.
How long will secondary students be in class per day?
Secondary students will attend class for 150 minutes every other day and alternate Fridays.
What will exam schedules look like for secondary students enrolled in in-class learning?
Course outlines and exams will be communicated at the beginning of the course.
Will students have access to a locker?
Lockers will not be used. Students will be required to carry their personal items and learning materials required for the day with them.
Are students required to wear a school uniform?
Students who attend secondary school in-class will continue to follow school dress codes, which includes wearing school uniforms, except for designated non-uniform days. This applies to Grade 7 and 8 students who attend a Grade 7 to 12 school. Special direction for secondary students who have physical education in the quadmester will be given by the teacher.
Will students have access to change rooms for physical education?
School washroom protocols will be followed.
Will school bell times change?
In order to accommodate lowered capacity of students who use Durham Student Transportation Services (DSTS), bell times for some schools may change. Bell time changes will be communicated to parents and guardians by the end of August.
Other Considerations
Students are encouraged to minimize the number of personal belongings that are brought to school.
Online Learning (Elementary and Secondary)
Students who do not return to school for in-class learning will be placed in a virtual school. Students will be in classes with other students the same age from across the system who have decided on the online learning model. They may have limited or no contact with their home school, classmates, and teacher as these classes will be formed based on age, not geographical location.
Will students enrolled in online learning remain part of their home school community?
Students who enroll in the online learning program in September are still part of their home school community, however, while they are participating in the online learning environment, their class placement may include students from other areas and municipalities. When students return to the in-class model, they will automatically be enrolled to their home school where they would normally attend.
How will online instruction be delivered in September?
Students enrolled in the online learning model will receive a weekly/daily schedule. Instruction will be delivered through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous learning that will be more robust than the distance learning experienced from March to June.
Many educators have been working hard over the summer to increase their own ability to provide more fulsome online instruction as we prepare for the return to learning in September.
We will continue to offer ongoing professional development opportunities and supports to build capacity for teachers and educators so that we can improve the quality of remote learning for students.
What online learning platform(s) will be used for students who opt for online instruction?
The following platforms may be used for online learning:
eLearning and Blended Learning: brightspace (by D2L), OneDrive, Microsoft Teams
Learning and Classroom Management System: Edsby
Video Conference / Real Time Learning: Zoom, Microsoft Teams
Will teachers who deliver instruction for the online learning model be a teacher from my child’s school and are the classes going to be the same for the rest of the school year?
A teacher will be assigned to deliver grade-appropriate curriculum for your child’s class in the online learning model. This may not be a teacher who was previously working from your school. Teacher placement for online learning will be assigned based on need.
How long are students enrolled in online learning required to stay with that option?
Secondary (Grades 9 to 12)
Secondary students may be permitted to transition into a different learning format at the end of each quadmester or credit. In this current model, students will start a new quadmester in November.
Elementary (Kindergarten to Grade 8)
Transitioning from one model to the other in elementary may require some wait time until a natural break in the school year such as Christmas or March Break.
How will work be graded for students enrolled in online learning?
Students will be assessed and evaluated based on curriculum expectations, and will receive progress reports, report cards, etc.
Will secondary students in the online learning model have the same availability of courses to choose from?
Secondary students participating in the online learning model will have to re-select their courses from the complement that is available which may not be the full a range of elective courses that is traditionally available.
How will exams be administered for secondary students enrolled in online learning?
As in any class, the teacher will communicate assessment and evaluation strategies along with the course outline to all students at the beginning of the course.
Is online learning available for students enrolled in French Immersion?
Yes, the online option is available for students in the French Immersion program.
How will DCDSB support families where students are unable to participate in online learning?
If a student is not able to access technology or the internet, we will have supports in place to ensure that student is equipped with the necessary tools to participate in online learning. If a student is not able to participate in online learning for other reasons, we will explore other options for program delivery based on the student and family’s individual needs.
Today the Ministry of Education, with recommendations from the Chief Medical Officer of Health, and local public health units, announced that elementary and secondary schools in the Durham Catholic District School Board will re-open for in-class instruction on Monday, February 8, 2021. Click here to view the announcement.
Effective Monday, February 8, 2021, students enrolled in in-class learning will return to the classroom with enhanced protocols and routines in place that will support the health, safety and well-being of all members of our Catholic learning community.
Students enrolled in our elementary or secondary virtual learning schools are not impacted by this announcement.
In accordance with the Ministry of Education and public health officials, the following enhanced health and safety measures will be in place when schools re-open, in addition to the layers of protection that were already in place since September 2020.
Masking
Masking is now mandatory for all students in Grades 1-3, subject to reasonable exceptions. This masking requirement is in addition to the existing requirement for students in Grades 4-12. Where physical distancing is not possible during outdoor activities, masking will be required for students in Grades 1-12. Students in Kindergarten are strongly encouraged to wear a mask. Families are encouraged to send two masks to school each day for each child (one for indoor and one for outdoor use).
Starting Monday, February 8, 2021, masks must be worn on the school bus, as well as outdoors at bus stops, by students in Kindergarten-Grade 12.
Screening
All students and staff are required to conduct daily screening for symptoms of COVID-19 before attending school using the COVID-19 school screening tool.
PLEASE DO NOT SEND YOUR CHILD TO SCHOOL IF THEY HAVE SYMPTOMS OR HAVE NOT PASSED THE SELF ASSESSMENT.
For ease of access students, a direct link to the Covid-19 school self-screening tool is now available on the DCDSB app. Parents/guardians, students and staff with mobile devices are encouraged to download the DCDSB app from Apple App Store or Google Play. The app can be located by searching “Durham Catholic District School Board”.
The self-screening tool can also be accessed at www.dcdsb.ca.
Confirmation of Self-Assessment for Secondary Students
All secondary students will be required to confirm that self-screening has been completed each day. This can be confirmed verbally as students enter their classroom, or by showing the green checkmark that appears on their device after completing the self-assessment.
Alternate arrangements will be made by the school for secondary students with special needs who do not have the capacity to conduct/confirm their own self-assessment.
Congregating
To support provincial efforts to stop further spread of COVID-19, schools will focus on the prevention of students congregating during non-instructional time, such as recess and before/after school. Parents and guardians are asked to reinforce this important information with their children.
Parents, guardians and caregivers who are dropping off and picking up students are asked to refrain from gathering, and adhere to physical distancing protocols at all times. The use of masks/face coverings are strongly encouraged for all parents/guardians even when outside.
Expanded Targeted Testing
The Ministry will be expanding targeted testing for students, staff and their respective households in high-priority areas that are experiencing high levels of community transmission and outbreaks. More information will be forthcoming if/when testing sites are established.
Child Care Centres
Child care centres operating within our DCDSB schools will be open. Please contact your child care centre directly to confirm before and after school programming.
Transportation
Bus transportation will resume its normal operating schedule on Monday, February 8, 2021. Students in Kindergarten-Grade 12 will continue to wear masks on school buses, as well as outdoor bus stops. Screening must be completed prior to boarding the bus each morning.
We are excited to welcome students back to the classroom, and will continue to promote strategies that encourage positive mental health and well-being. Thank you for your cooperation during this time as we work together for a safe return to school. May we continue to pray for the health and safety of our school communities.
Yours in Catholic Faith,
Tracy Barill
Director of Education
January 20, 2021 - Online Learning Extended for Elementary and Secondary Students
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Today the provincial government announced that based on the recommendations of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, elementary and secondary students in the Durham Catholic District School Board will continue to engage in teacher-led online learning on January 25, 2021.
While we have not been notified of an anticipated date for return to in-class learning, we are advised that the next timing for consideration of school reopening will be February 10, 2021.
We will continue to monitor the situation and provide families with updates with the most current information available.
Thank you for your cooperation and understanding as we endeavour to support these enhanced measures to keep our community safe during this provincial state of emergency. Please join me in praying for the sick and all those who have experienced loss or suffering as a result of the pandemic.
Our office phones continue to be monitored should you or your child be in need of assistance.
Tracy Barill
Director of Education
January 7, 2021 - Online Learning Extended to January 25, 2021
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Late this afternoon the government announced that elementary students in Southern Ontario will continue to engage in teacher-led online learning from January 11 to 22, 2021. The new anticipated date for return to in-class learning for both elementary and secondary students is Monday, January 25, 2021.Click here to view the announcement. This decision has been made as a result of a sharp increase in the number of positive Covid-19 cases being confirmed in the province.
Note that Friday, January 15, 2021 is designated as a Professional Activity (PA) Day for elementary school staff, which means there will be no online class instruction scheduled for elementary students on that day. Secondary programming will continue as scheduled.
We recognize the impact this decision may have on families, as well as the broader community and appreciate your ongoing understanding and support as we continue to follow provincial guidelines and protocols for keeping our communities safe. Below you will find a few reminders regarding technology and additional Ministry supports for learning during this extended period of online learning.
Sincerely,
Tracy Barill
Director of Education
Additional Information for Online Learning January 11 to 22, 2021
Technology Needs
Where access to technology is a barrier, families should contact the school for support.
For technical support on board issued devices or applications such as Edsby, D2L/Brightspace, Office 365, etc., please email TechnologySupport@dcdsb.ca and explain the issue you are experiencing such as password reset. Please include in the email, the student name, student User ID, date of birth, school name, grade and phone number where we can contact you.
Edsby Support for Parents/Guardians/Students
Instructional videos are available for parents/guardians/students online at: https://dcdsb.ca/Edsby
Additional Ministry Supports for Learning
Parents/Guardians are reminded that the Ministry of Education recently announced the launch of two new portals, TVO Learn and TFO IDÉLLO, apprendre à la maison, which provide supports for students learning remotely by accessing additional educational resources developed by Ontario certified teachers.
January 5, 2021 - Protecting What Matters Most - Minister of Education's Letter to Parents
December 28, 2020 - Remote Learning Schedules for January 2021
December 28, 2020
Dear Parents and Guardians,
As communicated on December 21, 2020, the Ministry of Education has mandated that in conjunction with the province-wide shut down, all schools in the province will be closed to students from January 4-8, 2021. Buses will not be running during this time. Students and staff will be engaged in remote learning from home during the closures. Currently, elementary schools are scheduled to re-open for face-to-face learning on January 11, 2021 and secondary schools are scheduled to resume in person instruction on January 25, 2021.
The following information is being provided to families to outline basic system-wide expectations during the remote learning period. More school specific information will be forthcoming once school resumes on January 4, 2021.
SCHEDULES FOR LEARNING
Virtual Schools – Elementary and Secondary
For students previously enrolled in virtual learning (elementary or secondary) online instruction will resume on January 4, 2021 according to the previously established schedule.
Elementary (Kindergarten – Grade 8)
January 4, 2021 - Afternoon
Parents/Guardians can expect that educators will connect with their students in the afternoon using board approved platforms
Schedules for the week, assignments and information will be sent from the school/educator to each student/family via Edsby and/or board email
Real-time learning will be done through Microsoft Teams, Zoom or Brightspace
January 5-8, 2021
Educators will post work online every day for those students who cannot connect in real time
At the beginning of the week, the teacher will post the online learning schedule for each day (including French and the subjects taught by itinerant teachers) and provide any necessary links for their Zoom/Microsoft Teams sessions
Instruction will generally follow the regular school schedule online (i.e., start and end times, lunch etc.)
During some of the time, educators will conduct lessons online, at other times they will be available to answer questions and provide feedback
General Timelines:
Kindergarten students should be able to access up to 180 minutes of learning each day.
Students in Grades 1-8 should be able to access up to 225 minutes of learning each day.
Secondary (Grades 9-12)
Beginning January 4, 2021 and continuing until Secondary schools reopen on January 25, 2021 students in Grades 9-12 will continue to follow the same schedule that was in place prior to the Christmas Weekly Schedule Break with the following important exceptions:
1. All students will be expected to engage in online learning in the morning (Blocks 1 and 2) every day.
2. Lunch break will be 60 minutes.
3. Students attending All Saints and Msgr. John Pereyma Catholic Secondary Schools will continue to follow their current schedule and start times of 8:50 a.m. (All Saints) and 9:00 a.m. (Pereyma) as noted on their schools’ websites.
Daily Schedule for all Secondary Schools (except All Saint and Msgr. Pereyma)
*The modification to the January 18-22, 2021 schedule has been made to balance the number of minutes of instruction for each course.
STUDENTS WITH EXCEPTIONAL SPECIAL EDUCATION NEEDS
Program Support Teachers will connect with the parents/guardians of our students with exceptional education needs beginning on January 4, 2021 in order to discuss programming needs and to put the necessary accommodations in place. Where required and appropriate, secondary students with the highest special needs who have been attending on a daily, extended schedule will be provided with the opportunity to attend school in-person starting on January 11, 2021.
ATTENDANCE
During the period of remote learning, it is requested that parents/guardians continue to report absences using our board’s Safe Arrival program.
While the instructional minutes listed above for Elementary students (Kindergarten – Grade 8) must be provided, it is understood that during the week of January 4-8, 2021, not all students may be able to be online for the full 180/225mins.
If a student connects any time during the day they should be marked as present.
If a parent/guardian indicates that the student will not be connecting synchronously
but will be doing the work at home, they will also be marked as present.
Secondary students are expected to connect online during each block in order to be marked as present.
TECHNOLOGY
It is understood that for families with multiple school age children, simultaneous online learning may be difficult if there are a limited number of devices in the household. For students in Kindergarten – Grade 8, educators will ensure that daily work is posted so that if a student cannot connect online at a specific time, they will still be able to access learning materials and assignments.
Where access to technology is a barrier, families should contact the school for support.
For technical support on Board issued devices or applications such as Edsby, D2L/Brightspace, Office 365, etc., please email TechnologySupport@dcdsb.ca and explain the issue you are experiencing such as password reset. Please include in the email, the student name, student User ID, date of birth, school name, grade and phone number where we can contact you.
Edsby Support for Parents/Guardians/Students
Instructional videos are available for parents/guardians/students online at: https://dcdsb.ca/Edsby
Additional Ministry Supports for Learning
Parents/Guardians are reminded that the Ministry of Education recently announced the launch of two new portals, TVO Learn and TFO IDÉLLO, apprendre à la maison, which provide supports for students learning remotely by accessing additional educational resources developed by Ontario certified teachers.
We recognize that these are challenging times for everyone and thank you in advance for your ongoing efforts to work in collaboration with school staff to support continued learning for our students.
May you continue to stay safe at home during this period of provincial shutdown and may God’s blessings be with all of us as we move with hope and love into a New Year.
Yours in Faith,
Tracy Barill,
Director of Education
December 21, 2020 - Ontario Announces Province Wide Shutdown to Stop the Spread of COVID-19
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Today the Premier announced a province wide shutdown to prevent the spread of COVID-19 effective Saturday, December 26, 2020. Click here to view details about the shutdown outlined by the province. As part of this shutdown, all schools in the province will be closed to students from January 4-8, 2020.
What does this mean for your child after the Christmas holiday?
All Elementary and Secondary students currently enrolled in the virtual learning model will continue to receive regular instruction with their teachers, beginning January 4, 2021, as per their usual practice.
Students who currently attend class in person at the school will be asked to connect online during the period of closures. Return to face-to-face learning is scheduled as follows:
Elementary students (Kindergarten to Grade 8) will return to in-school classes on Monday, January 11, 2021
Secondary students (Grades 9 through 12) will return to in-school classes on Monday, January 25, 2021
Beginning on January 4, 2021 and continuing during the period of school closures, staff will engage with students using our online learning platforms. While we recognize that this may be a challenge for some households, we respect provincial protocols to keep everyone safe and ask that you encourage your child to connect with their teachers online on January 4, 2021. More information will be forthcoming.
In the event of extended closures, the Durham Catholic District School Board will continue to follow the direction of the Ministry of Education, in terms of expectations for teaching and learning, evaluation and assessment, and we will update families with next steps.
Thank you for your continued cooperation and understanding. By working together as a community, it is our hope that students and staff can return to the classroom as soon as possible.
I hope that you and those you love are finding ways to have a safe and happy Christmas! Please know that you are all in my prayers.
Yours in Faith,
Tracy Barill Director of Education
December 17, 2020 - Preparing for all Scenarios
Dear Parents and Guardians,
As we prepare for the start of Christmas holidays, I want to thank you for your continued support and commitment to adhering to public health and safety measures that have ensured schools remain a safe place for our students and staff.
We recognize now more than ever, what a true gift it is to participate in Advent activities in our schools and parishes. Our schools and classrooms continue to offer opportunities to celebrate our Catholic faith through charitable campaigns, virtual reflections and classroom prayers, as we focus on this very special time of our liturgical year.
Looking ahead, we encourage families to remain vigilant during the holidays by following public health advice in order to make the return to school in January 2021 as safe as possible. By adhering to public health measures in our communities, we can all have a safe and relaxing holiday season. You can check the government’s holiday web page for more direct and up-to-date guidance on how individuals and families can plan for a safe holiday season, including suggestions for holiday activities for children and families.
Self-Screening As a reminder, anyone feeling ill should not attend school. All children, students, staff, and visitors must be screened for symptoms of illness every day before attending school or child care. To help meet this requirement, you may use either the provincial COVID-19 school screening tool.
Self-screening will still be a requirement when we return to school and we will continue to reinforce masking and hand hygiene as well as cohorting and physical distancing with students and staff.
We encourage you to visit Ontario.ca/covidresponse to learn what public health measures are in place in our community – but also please be aware that these could change depending on the most current public health advice.
Preparing for all scenarios Yesterday, the Ministry of Education advised Ontario school boards to prepare for all possible scenarios following Christmas break. Thus, students currently attending in-school classes are being encouraged to take home any materials they may require for remote learning (including personal belongings). Our goal is to return to in-school classes in January, however we will continue to follow recommendations as outlined by the Ministry of Education and local public health authorities.
If a move to remote learning does occur over the holidays, communications will be sent to families with students attending in-school classes advising them to access their classes and teachers online via Edsby.
In closing, I want to extended my heartfelt thanks to our students, families, staff, clergy, parish communities and community partners for your cooperation and collaboration this past year. I know this Christmas will be different, but I wish you a joyous holiday filled with love, peace and hope.
Yours in Faith,
Tracy Barill Director of Education
October 7, 2020 - Fall Update from the Director of Education
Dear Parents and Guardians,
As we enter this season of Thanksgiving and the Month of the Rosary, I would like to express my gratitude to everyone across our Catholic school system, for playing a role in maintaining safe and healthy learning communities. Whether your child is registered for in-class learning or is participating in our virtual school, we continue to honour and celebrate our Year of Love as our pastoral theme for 2020-2021. This Thanksgiving, may we take the time to reflect on the blessings in our homes, schools and parishes, and radiate messages of love through acts of faith, kindness and humility.
I would like to thank all parents and guardians for your patience as we continue to work through a unique start to the school year. Although there have been many changes to our typical daily routines this fall, our commitment to student well-being and achievement remains our highest priority.
COVID-19 School Screening
With health and safety in mind, the COVID-19 School Screening tool is a voluntary, simple and fast online tool that allows parents, staff and essential visitors to indicate whether they, or their children, are experiencing particular symptoms of illness (from a specified list), are currently subject to quarantine requirements or have otherwise been advised to isolate. The tool was recently updated and reflects current provincial health guidance. The screening result can be downloaded as a PDF and printed or emailed if needed.
COVID-19 Updates
For the health, safety and well-being of our communities, DCDSB is committed to keeping the public informed about the number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in our schools and offices. A listing of all DCDSB facilities and the number of reported cases is available at www.dcdsb.ca/covid19updates under Tracking and Reporting.
As of October 5, 2020, three confirmed cases have been reported in our schools. The number of confirmed cases indicated under each school includes students, staff or school visitors (if applicable) and will be updated on the website based on the direction of the Durham Region Health Department and reflective of Ministry of Health requirements.
In order to reduce the spread of illness, visitors to the school are limited and should arrange to enter the school by appointment only. Where visitors are permitted, they will be restricted to designated areas within the school and will be required to adhere to health and safety protocols, such as wearing a mask, using hand sanitizer and practice physical distancing.
We would like to acknowledge the efforts being made by students, staff and families to adhere to protocols that have been put in place at every school to limit transmission and support the continued health and safety of all.
Requests to Switch Learning Models
Our online classes are currently operating at full capacity. In order to provide as much continuity of learning as possible for all students, our next targeted date to transition students who have made requests to change learning models prior to December 4, 2020 falls at the end of term one for elementary (January 25) and the start of the third quadmester for secondary (February 2).
In closing, I am pleased to see that our Catholic learning communities are thriving, each in their own special way. Thank you for your ongoing cooperation and understanding as we aim to keep our Catholic learning environments healthy, safe and clean for students and staff. Wishing you a blessed Thanksgiving full of love, faith and family.
Yours in Faith,
Tracy Barill,
Director of Education
October 2, 2020 - Update from the Ministry of Health
September 2, 2020 - No Further Change Requests to Learning Models
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Thank you for completing the survey to indicate your choice of learning model for your children. Class placements and staffing are now being finalized, therefore, no further change requests can be processed at this time.
Please note that class placements/timetables will be communicated by your child’s school as soon as possible during the week of September 8, 2020.
Moving forward, any requests for changes from in-class or remote learning models must be made by contacting the Principal of your child’s current school. Change requests will be recorded by the school for consideration after September 21, 2020. Where space and class size allows, requests may be accommodated.
Thank you for your continued cooperation as we prepare for the return to school. Parents and guardians can learn more at www.dcdsb.ca/returntolearning.
Yours in Faith,
Tracy Barill Director of Education
August 28, 2020 - UPDATE on supported re-entry and return to learning
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Thank you for your patience as we work through the many interrelated issues involved in the return to learning this fall. While we are endeavouring to provide students and their families with clear and reliable information, these are complex matters that evolve rapidly.
Late yesterday we were advised by Durham Student Transportation Services that due to unavoidable delays in the timing of the delivery of bus routes, our bus operators’ group will not be able to provide bus services for our students until Monday, September 14, 2020.
As a result of this new development, it has been necessary to modify our return to learning plan. The week of September 8 to 11, 2020 will be conducted virtually with a modified schedule of contact and classes. The focus at that time will be on preparing students to return to in-class learning. Busing and face-to-face learning in class will begin during the week of September 14. Bus pick-up and drop-off information will be shared with parents of eligible bus students through Durham Student Transportation Services the week of September 8.
An overview of what students and families can expect during the first two weeks of school is provided below. More specific information, including a schedule for your child’s attendance in school, will be forthcoming from your school principal during the week of August 31.
Elementary In-class Learning
September 8 to 11, 2020 - Remote preparation of students for their return to in class learning
Information on how your child’s educators will connect with your child for introductions and orientation will come from your school the week of August 31.
Educators/schools will work to confirm current and correct email addresses for all parents and guardians.
Establishment of Edsby online classrooms and technology refreshers for students/families.
Using virtual means, schools/educators will share information, videos and resources with families to introduce children to the protective measures that will be put in place when they return to class (e.g. hand hygiene, what to expect at recess or lunch, the proper use and storage of masks, what to bring to school).
Families can expect their children will have both synchronous (real time) and asynchronous communications during this week.
September 14 to 18, 2020 - Small group in-school orientation
In the second week of school, students will begin in-class learning. Half of each class will attend on alternate days as designated by the school. In these smaller groups, students will have the chance to become more familiar with classroom and school processes. All students will be in attendance full-time on Friday, September 18.
Monday, September 14 and Wednesday, September 16 - (1/2 of each class)
Tuesday, September 15 and Thursday, September 17 - (1/2 of each class)
Friday, September 18 (Full class)
Schools will share orientation dates with parents the week of August 31.
Secondary In-class Learning
September 8 to 11, 2020 - Remote preparation of students to return to in-class learning
September 8 – 9 - Students to receive timetables; staff to finalize and resolve any timetable conflicts.
September 10 – 11 - Teachers will connect with students virtually for introductions and orientation.
Students and parents should ensure technology is in place in order to connect with teachers virtually.
During this week, online assemblies will be scheduled for students and families with their respective grade levels. (eg. all Grade 9 students)
September 14 to 18, 2020 - Adapted model for in-class learning begins
In-class learning will begin Monday, September 14, 2020.in accordance with the adapted model and quadmester system.
Under this model, students will be assigned to either cohort A or B for the in-class portion of their learning. Cohort A will attend Mondays, Wednesdays and every other Friday. Cohort B will attend Tuesdays, Thursdays and every other Friday.
Cohort A will attend school in person for 150 minutes on Monday, September 14, Wednesday, September 16 and Friday, September 18.
Cohort B will attend school in person for 150 minutes on Tuesday, September 15 and Thursday, September 17.
Virtual Learning Centres
Elementary Online Learning
September 8 to 11, 2020 - Focus on connecting with families and preparing for online learning
Tuesday, September 8 - Orientation Day (1/4 of each class)
Wednesday, September 9 - Orientation Day (1/4 of each class)
Thursday, September 10 - Orientation Day (1/4 of each class)
Friday, September 11 - Orientation Day (1/4 of each class)
Principal will share more details with families the week of August 31.
Orientation will include review of safety protocols, timetables, introductory lessons and managing technology.
Distribution of technology if needed.
September 14 to 18, 2020
Monday, September 14 and Wednesday September 16 - (1/2 of each class)
Tuesday, September 15 and Thursday September 17- (1/2 of each class)
Friday, September 18 - All Students
Regular timetables will be followed throughout the week.
Secondary Online Learning
September 8 to 11, 2020 – Focus on connecting with families and preparing for online learning
September 8 – 9 - Students to receive timetables; staff to finalize and resolve any timetable conflicts.
September 10 - Students will be informed on how to access their Period 1 and 2 classes virtual over Edsby.
September 10 – 11 - Educators will focus on community building, supporting health and wellness, reviewing expectations, and supporting online learning on our educational platforms.
During this week, online assemblies will be scheduled for students and families with their respective grade levels. (eg. All Grade 9 students).
September 14 to 18, 2020
Regular online instruction to resume following individual student timetables.
I understand that parents and guardians will have questions based on this new information. I assure you that our principals and staff are working diligently to adapt to the most current circumstances to support our families. In the week ahead, schools will provide you with information regarding your child’s class placement, orientation dates, and school-specific protocols.
In closing, I would like to express my appreciation for your continued patience and understanding as we work through these uncommon days in preparation for the return to learning.
Yours in Faith,
Tracy Barill Director of Education
August 27, 2020 - Minister of Education's Letter to Parents and Guardians
August 21, 2020 - Supported re-entry for elementary students attending in-class learning
AN UPDATE ON SUPPORTED RE-ENTRY WAS POSTED ON AUGUST 28, 2020
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Thank you to families who have confirmed their selection for in-class or online learning for September 2020. Both in-class and online learning will re-open on Tuesday, September 8, 2020.
In order to support student well-being and safety as they transition back to learning, the Durham Catholic District School Board will be staggering the re-entry of students over a two-week period at the start of the school year. This framework will provide an opportunity for students and staff to review and adjust to daily school routines and establish safety procedures in smaller groups before coming together as a full class.
For our elementary schools, the two-week supported re-entry to in-class learning has been established as follows:
Week One
Tuesday, September 8 - Orientation Day (1/4 of students from each class)
Wednesday, September 9 - Orientation Day (1/4 of students from each class)
Thursday, September 10 - Orientation Day (1/4 of students from each class)
Friday, September 11 - Orientation Day (1/4 of students from each class)
Week Two
Monday, September 14 and Wednesday, September 16 - (1/2 of each class)
Tuesday, September 15 and Thursday, September 17 - (1/2 of each class)
Friday, September 18 - Full class
This staggered schedule is for in-class elementary students. Further information will be forthcoming regarding the schedule for our online learning students.
Staff will ensure that siblings who attend the same school will be scheduled on the same days. At this time, we do not have dates selected for individual students as schools are currently in the process of establishing class placements. Parents and guardians will receive confirmation of their child’s re-entry schedule from the school as soon as placements have been finalized.
Thank you again for your patience as we continue to solidify re-opening plans in compliance with Ministry of Education and public health directives. I encourage you to visit our website for regular updates at www.dcdsb.ca/returntolearning
August 18, 2020 - A Return to Learning Update from DCDSB
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Thank you to all families for your patience and understanding as we continue to develop our plan for the Return to Learning based on the most current information from the Ministry of Education and public health officials.
I would like to remind all families that we continue to post updates and answers to frequently asked questions to our website at www.dcdsb.ca/returntolearning. Most recently, we have added a presentation that was shared with the Board of Trustees at our Special Board Meeting on Monday, August 17, 2020. The presentation is available under the Updates section, or you may click here to access the information directly.
I would also like to remind you that families are welcome to participate in two live forums hosted in partnership with the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) and our Student Senate. These sessions will provide updates based on the most current information as we transition to the 2020-2021 school year.
Return to Learning Online Forum for Parents and Guardians
Question and Answer Session with DCPIC and the Director of Education
July 30, 2020 - Parent and Guardian Letter from Director Barill
Dear Parents and Guardians,
I hope you are enjoying a peaceful summer, along with some fun activities with family during these warmer months.
I wanted to connect with you about the most recent update on the province’s return to learning plan for September. Today the Minister of Education announced that in September 2020, Ontario school boards will open their doors to students.
This means that students can return to in-class learning with enhanced protocols and routines in place that will support the health, safety and well-being of all members of our Catholic learning community.
While we continue to work through the details in consultation with public health officials and recommendations from Sick Kids Hospital’s Guidance for School Reopening, here are some of the things that students and staff can expect to see at our schools as of Tuesday, September 8, 2020.
Elementary schools will be open to students for regular instruction five days a week as per the established school calendar.
The secondary school model will be based on a quadmester system (two courses per timetable) with 15 students per class attending on alternate days.
In partnership with families, schools will be working alongside the board’s Student Services Department and Regulated Health Professionals to plan for a safe return to school and the provision of safe and appropriate support for students with special education needs in both elementary and secondary. More information will be forthcoming.
For elementary and secondary schools:
Self-assessments are to be performed at home for COVID-related symptoms,
Students or staff members who are exhibiting symptoms will be expected to stay home.
Hand hygiene and physical distancing will be emphasized and age appropriate signage will be placed throughout the school as reminders.
Hand sanitizer and cleaning supplies will be placed throughout the school.
Enhanced cleaning protocols will be implemented in schools.
Access to school facilities will be limited to students and staff only.
Non-medical masks will be mandatory for staff and for students from Grades 4-12.
Public health nurses will be hired regionally to provide training for school staff and additional support as needed.
We recognize that some families will opt to keep their children at home and continue with remote online learning when schools open. To determine class placements and timetable scheduling, we will begin gathering that information from parents and guardians next week. You will receive an e-mail that will require a response by a specified date in order to ensure your child’s enrolment.
In addition, parents of students who are eligible for busing through Durham Student Transportation Services (DSTS) will be asked to complete a separate online survey to assist with bus planning for the fall.
It is our goal at the Durham Catholic District School Board to implement protocols and precautions that will ensure a positive experience for students and staff as they return to schools. For ongoing updates, please visit www.dcdsb.ca/returntolearning.
Lastly, I extend an invitation to families to participate in two live forums hosted in partnership with the Durham Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (DCPIC) and our Student Senate. It is my hope that this will be an opportunity to respond to questions based on the most current situation as we transition to the 2020-2021 school year.
Return to Learning Online Forum for Parents and Guardians
Question and Answer Session with DCPIC and the Director of Education
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