Session One: Educate, Empower and Excel: The Impact of Black Leadership in Education
- Date and time: Thursday, November 7, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
- Guest Speakers: Siobhan Wright and Joel Chiutsi
- Location: In-person at the Pope Francis Centre, DCDSB Board Office (652 Rossland Rd W, Oshawa) OR virtually via Zoom (a link will be emailed prior to the session).
In this session Siobhan Wright and Joel Chiutsi will discuss the lack of representation of Black teachers/educators, school administrators and other senior leadership positions in school boards. Through a multi-stakeholder engagement style, Siobhan and Joel will guide a conversation that will help to identify systemic barriers to representation of Black educators in education. The discussion will help to develop practical strategies for promoting equity and inclusion, and improving the experience of Black students in schools.
The DCDSB Black Student Excellence Award nominees and award recipient will also be honoured during this event.
Learn about the guest speakers below.
About Siobhan Wright
Siobhan Wright is currently a Superintendent of Education at the York Catholic District School Board. She is an excellent educator with a very clear vision and determination to build supportive schools that can address some of the challenges our communities are facing today. Siobhan persistently believes that change is always possible. In her time as a superintendent of education, she has been able to inspire change at YCDSB. Siobhan embraces Catholic values in her belief that all people from various walks of life can come together and work successfully towards the same goal. She values cultural diversity in the board and is always looking for ways to celebrate it. She models inclusivity to staff, parents and students by treating everyone equitably and with great respect.
Siobhan’s contribution to equity includes various leadership roles within her board and throughout Ontario. She is a published writer on equity for educational leadership and continues to speak for various organizations and institutions such as York University and Queen's University. Siobhan Wright was recently named the Ontario recipient of the OCSOA EXL Award For Excellence in Leadership for her outstanding contributions to equity in the education system.
About Joel Chiutsi
Currently serving as the Superintendent of Education for School Leadership at the York Catholic District School Board since 2021, Joel plays a crucial role in overseeing K-12 schools. As the Chair of the YCDSB Race and Cultural Identity Pillar, he forged strong connections with various communities, cataloged resources for schools, engaged in community consultations, and addressed structural barriers to student engagement. In addition to his administrative roles, Joel actively contributed to various York Catholic District School Board committees, served as an Anti-Black Racism Presenter, and collaborated with organizations such as York University, Queen's University, and the Catholic Principal Council (CPCO).
Joel is a passionate servant leader who has invested critical time in developing leaders in his sphere of influence. His ongoing commitment to mentorship and leadership development is evident in his active coaching and mentoring of aspiring principals and vice-principals. He aims to build capacity and confidence in educational leaders, fostering a new generation of impactful educators. Furthermore, Joel has been published as an author and is currently pursuing a doctorate in educational leadership, showcasing his dedication to continuous learning and advancement in the field.
Session Two: Advancing EDI in a Changing World – Why Inclusion Matters Now More Than Ever
- Date and time: Wednesday, April 30, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
- Guest Speaker: Shellene Drakes-Tull
- Location: In-person at the Pope Francis Centre, DCDSB Board Office (652 Rossland Rd W, Oshawa) OR virtually via Zoom (a link will be emailed prior to the session).
In this session Shellene Drakes-Tull will lead a discussion to address the challenges facing equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) efforts today, including resistance to progress and the need to reinforce the significance of equity work. Together, we will explore practical strategies to sustain EDI initiatives and advance inclusion in an evolving world.
Through thoughtful discussions and shared insights, this session seeks to empower participants with knowledge and tools to champion equity within their communities. Join us as we reaffirm the importance of inclusion and pave the way for meaningful change.
Learn about the guest speaker below.
Shellene is a writer, communications strategist, and educator, who's fueled by a deep passion for helping people connect through the magic of storytelling. Exploring the fundamental question of 'who are you?' is at the core of her belief, guiding individuals to create their own narratives and stand proudly in their truths.
The creative force behind the Modern-Day Griot Project, Shellene leads the innovative program that not only educates but also transforms the narrative of Blackness in Canada through storytelling.. She also brings her expertise to the University of Toronto’s Scarborough campus as a sessional lecturer teaching about the Black experience in Canada.
Shellene is a contributing columnist at the Toronto Star and has shared stories of diversity, equity, and inclusion for organizations including the Globe and Mail, ByBlacks.com, Toronto District School Board, Deloitte, and more.
A facilitator and consultant specializing in storytelling, equity, and social change, Shellene has led DEI and communications workshops for organizations like Procter & Gamble, the City of Toronto, and United Way of Greater Toronto. Through research and storytelling, she creates inclusive spaces that drive meaningful conversations and systemic change.
A storyteller and a guide, Shellene’s goal is to encourage all people to embrace their authentic stories, infuse joy in their lives, and change the narrative of Blackness in Canada.
