A Message from the
Chairperson of the
Board of Trustees

As we continue to rebound from the impact and address of the COVID-19 pandemic, we remain focused and steadfast on our goals as a system and ensuring all students across the district receive quality public education in spaces where they are included and experience success and belonging.  

 

As Chairperson, it has been my pleasure to lead such a dynamic group of Trustees and Student Trustees who are truly committed to digging in and helping students reach their full potential. This year was special, as we were able to engage in the largest consultation process we have ever done towards building a plan that will guide us for the next five years. The consultation process included students, staff, families, and community members and allowed us to explicitly define a shared vision, mission  and six strategic directions as part of our new Strategic Plan. This process allowed us to hear directly from all those we serve about what matters most as we move forward.

 

We are committed to keeping you informed about our progress and measuring our success. We will issue an annual Report Card on our progress with the Strategic Plan. Additionally, each school year we will share the details of our progress through our Board Improvement and Equity Plan (BIEP) which highlights four key areas; Achievement, Human Rights and Equity, Mental Health, Well-being and Engagement, and Transitions and Pathways. Our hope is that increased transparency will continue to strengthen your confidence in the work we are doing to support all students who attend WRDSB schools.

 

This year was full of opportunity and accomplishment. Apart from the significant work of the Strategic Plan process, we were able to hold a policy review process, welcome and onboard new Trustees following the municipal election, plan our budget, rename Laurel Heights Secondary School, open Oak Creek Public School, support the ongoing efforts of student nutrition organizations through a donation from the Waterloo Education Foundation Inc. (WEFI), and support the Student Trustees' vision of a reimagined Student Trustee Election. Of course, we also continued our vital role as ardent advocates for the constituents we serve on both local and provincial issues, from the funding available to school boards, to advocacy for the introduction of an Indigenous history curriculum for students across the province. We have also enjoyed returning to long awaited in-person meetings and events where we have been able to connect, discuss, and build a better future for WRDSB students.

 

This year saw us overcoming substantial challenges as we navigated the pandemic and dealt with the realities and risks of racism, hate and a cyber incident. 

 

All of this has reinforced our commitment to the students, families and staff we serve. 

 

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I would like to acknowledge Director chanicka, along with Senior Staff, and all WRDSB employees for the continued development and delivery on our key priorities that support student achievement and well-being. Thank you for keeping students at the centre of your work and promoting our collective success.