Students Invited to Register for 2025-2026 Indigenous Languages and International Languages (ILIL) Programs

The York Region District School Board (YRDSB) is pleased to announce that registration is now open for its 2025-2026 Indigenous Languages and International Languages (ILIL) programs for both elementary and secondary students.

These programs are open to all students, including those who are not enrolled in YRDSB and those who reside outside of York Region.

There is no cost to enroll, aside from a small consumable and resource fee.

Elementary Program (SK to Grade 8)

Students in Senior Kindergarten to Grade 8 can develop skills in reading, writing, and speaking a new language—or maintain their heritage language. No prior language experience is required.

Classes are offered outside regular school hours in over 20 languages through in-person or online/remote formats.

• To ensure full participation, families are encouraged to register by Monday, September 8, 2025.
• Registration will reopen on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, to fill any remaining spaces.

Visit website for full list of available languages, class times, locations, and registration details.

Secondary Credit Courses (Grades 9 to 12)

Secondary students can earn credits toward their Ontario Secondary School Diploma through the ILIL program.

• Courses are delivered virtually through a combination of synchronous (live online) sessions and asynchronous activities.
• Classes run for the entire school year, from September to June.

For information, see available languages, course schedules, and registration.

For more information contact:

Indigenous Languages and International Languages

ILIL@yrdsb.ca

Students Showcase their Apps at Develop the Future Event

At the Develop the Future showcase, hosted by the Career Education Council, students from YRDSB and school boards across Ontario gathered in downtown Toronto to showcase mobile apps they have developed to a panel of industry judges.

The students developed the apps and participated in the showcase as part of their cooperative education (co-op) programs. They received feedback and advice, and had an opportunity to network with their fellow peers and industry professionals.

"It was great getting to talk with people who have experience in the app development field and seeing how they view my ideas," said Sena, a Grade 11 student. 

Milliken Mills HS Student Creates Ripples with STEM Projects

What started as a simple idea to build a community around STEM has grown into a thriving nonprofit with real-world impact. 

Meet Joyce, a passionate student leader from Milliken Mills HS who was inspired by her mother's career in water science and took action to spark that same interest in others. Through “Create Your Ripples,” Joyce and her peers run PC-building workshops for youth, provide STEM mentorship, and lead hands-on climate projects like water testing and precipitation tracking across the GTA. 

Their citizen science work sheds light on environmental challenges while helping students build critical thinking, collaboration and leadership skills. With mentorship from educators and a focus on empowering the next generation, Joyce is showing what it means to lead with purpose, and how young people can create ripples that extend far beyond the classroom.

Tune In: South Asian Heritage Month: United by Heritage

In celebration of South Asian Heritage Month, Tune In YRDSB welcomes six secondary students for an honest conversation about culture, identity and belonging.

Together, they reflect on the pride, strength and growth that comes from embracing their South Asian heritage, while also exploring the diverse experiences within the community. Through personal stories, they highlight how culture can be both grounding and transformative, offering connection, peace and a strong sense of self.

Listen now. 

York Region District School Board Passes Balanced Budget for 2025-2026 School Year

Aurora – June 18, 2025 -- At its June 17 Board meeting, York Region District School Board passed a balanced 2025-2026 budget.  

The balanced $1,770.2 billion budget reflects priorities and feedback shared through public  consultation results and advisory committees. The areas of focus include healthy and safe learning environments, classroom-based support staff, mental health and student well-being and education technology to enhance student learning .  

“As we developed the 2025-2026 budget, the Board sought the input of students, families, staff and community members,” said Ron Lynn, Chair of the Board. “This feedback, along with input from advisory committees and various stakeholders, played an important role in allocating the budget. I would like to thank staff, families and members of the community and the Finance and Property Committee members for the collaborative effort.” 

“The 2025–2026 budget reflects the Board’s ongoing commitment to prioritizing areas that matter most to YRDSB students, families, staff and community-priorities that were identified through the consultation process,” said Trustee Butterworth, Chair of the Finance and Property Committee. 

Despite ongoing financial pressures, the 2025–2026 budget allocates resources to sustaining support in several high-priority areas as identified through the consultation process. 

• Healthy and Safe Learning Environment for All:  $518K allocated through the Critical Physical Security Infrastructure (CPSI)  to improve physical security; Supporting secure entry systems, surveillance and emergency response infrastructure.
• Classroom-Based Support Staff:  Increased Empower Reading Teachers from 27.0 FTE to 28.2 FTE, supporting students with significant reading difficulties; Investing $3.6M in Elementary Primary Literacy Teachers and $564K allocated for Math Facilitators.  
• Mental Health and Well-Being:  Achieved $1.5M in savings by using Chromebooks in place of laptops for Specialized Equipment. Funding from these savings have been reallocated to enhance support for students’ special needs, health and well-being by funding additional social workers occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists beyond the base budget.
• Education Technology to Enhance Student Learning: Designated $1.5M in technology investment to support student devices and support initiatives in digital literacy, robotics and artificial intelligence; Allocated $250K centrally to support STEM programs, robotics, broad-based technology and other school-based technology expenses.  

“We were able to deliver a balanced budget by focusing on what matters most to families - programs that directly support students,” said Bill Cober, Director of Education. “By combining investments in student programs with efficiencies in central departments we were able to deliver a budget that aligns resources to support the Board’s District Action Plan. YRDSB will continue delivering high-quality classroom programming and services that lead to greater outcomes for students.” 

“Despite declining enrolment, a balanced budget was reached by identifying efficiencies in central departments while maintaining the delivery of student services,” said Vidyia Maharaj, Associate Director and Chief Financial Officer, Service Excellence. “These included reductions in centralized operating budgets, transitioning to more cost-effective technology and using the savings to support programs and services.”  

York Region District School Board is the third largest school district in Ontario with over 130,000 students in 182 elementary schools and 33 secondary schools. York Region students consistently perform above average in provincial testing and the Board is one of the top achievers in Ontario. For more information about the York Region District School Board, please visit the Board website and follow YRDSB on Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn. 

For more information contact: 

Corporate Communications 

Email: communications.services@yrdsb.ca 

York Region District School Board Celebrates Human Rights Ambassador Award Winners

June 16, 2025 – YRDSB’s Human Rights Office celebrated four recipients of the Human Rights Ambassador Award for YRDSB secondary students who have made exceptional contributions to advancing the principles of human rights, equality, diversity and anti-discrimination in their schools during the 2024-2025 school year. 

At the Board’s annual celebration, the students were celebrated for their dedication to inclusion and respect for all. A video and summary of each students’ accomplishments is available on the Board website. 

The 2025 Human Rights Ambassador Award recipients are: 

Left to Right: Shariah Golding, Keyao Tang, Darleen Julman, Hamza Khokhawala

York Region District School Board is the third largest school district in Ontario with over 130,000 students in 182 elementary schools and 33 secondary schools. York Region students consistently perform above average in provincial testing and the Board is one of the top achievers in Ontario. For more information about the York Region District School Board, please visit the Board website and follow YRDSB on Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.

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For more information contact:

Communications@yrdsb.ca 

Tune In YRDSB: Jewish Heritage Month - Exploring Identity, History and Community

In this Jewish Heritage Month episode of Tune In YRDSB, host Jordan Rappaport is joined by Rebecca Zaiontz, and Aneta Fishman to reflect on Jewish identity, pride and belonging.

The conversation begins with a meaningful look at the history of Jewish communities in Canada, Ontario and York Region, setting the stage for a rich exploration of culture, resilience and the diversity of Jewish experiences.

Join us as we listen, learn, and celebrate the strength and contributions of Jewish communities within and beyond our schools.

Listen Now

Tune In YRDSB is the first podcast of its kind in Ontario, featuring a wide range of topics related to education. 

Elementary and Secondary Schools Professional Activity (PA) Day - June 27, 2025

All Elementary Schools

Length: Full Day – AM & PM

Topic: Transition Planning and School Improvement Planning

Entity Hosting: All Elementary Schools

Presenter(s)/Facilitator(s): School Administration and Board Based Personnel

Description: School Teams will engage in School Improvement Planning, reflecting on the impact of strategies used during the year and their impact on student outcomes.

All Secondary Schools

Length: Full Day – AM & PM

Topic: Transition Planning and School Improvement Planning

Entity Hosting: All Secondary Schools

Presenter(s)/Facilitator(s): School Administration and Board Based Personnel

Description: School Teams will engage in School Improvement Planning, reflecting on the impact of strategies used during the year and their impact on student outcomes.

Secondary Professional Activity (P.A.) Day - June 26, 2025

All Secondary Schools

Length: Full Day – AM & PM

Topic: Transition Planning and School Improvement Planning

Entity Hosting: All Secondary Schools

Presenter(s)/Facilitator(s): School Administration and Board Based Personnel

Description: School Teams will engage in School Improvement Planning, reflecting on the impact of strategies used during the year and their impact on student outcomes.

YRDSB News & Events: Urban Solutions Design Thinking Program

Hosted at York University’s Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change, the Urban Solutions Design Thinking Program brings together high school students from across the region to explore real-world geographic problems and develop innovative, data-driven solutions. Created by OAGEE (Ontario Association of Geographic and Environmental Educators), the program uses a structured design thinking protocol aligned with Sustainable Development Goals 11 and 13. From reimagining bus stops in Toronto as biodiversity hubs, to tackling lead poisoning in turmeric production in India, and reducing landfill waste in Indonesia through biogas solutions, students worked over the course of a semester to investigate global and local challenges. They presented their solutions to professors, peers, and professionals, gaining authentic experience in research, collaboration, and public speaking. For SHSM students, the experience extended to solving on-campus challenges at York, such as designing inclusive third spaces. Across both streams, the energy, passion, and thoughtful innovation on display highlight the power of geographic education and student voice in building a more sustainable future.

Watch video

YRDSB Seeks Parent, Family and Community Engagement Advisory Committee Members

York Region District School Board is accepting applications for membership on the Board’s Parent, Family and Community Engagement Advisory Committee (PEAC).

PEAC supports, encourages and enhances family engagement at the Board level to improve student achievement and well-being. It represents the collective voice of families who have children attending public schools in York Region.

The deadline to apply has been extended. Interested family members are invited to submit an online application form by June 25, 2025 or can request a copy of the form by emailing leadership.development.engagement@yrdsb.ca or calling 905-727-0022 ext. 3650.

PEAC members are expected to attend a minimum of five meetings each year. The first meeting date for the new membership is December 3, 2025, which is a joint meeting with our Equity and Inclusivity Advisory Committee (EIAC).

Interested applicants are invited to view an informational video to learn more about this family engagement opportunity. 

More information is available on the YRDSB Parent, Family and Community Engagement Advisory Committee webpage.

Tune In YRDSB: East Asian Heritage Month - Lived Experience & Leadership in YRDSB

In this East Asian Heritage Month episode of Tune In YRDSB, Superintendent Elizabeth Lau is joined by four East Asian-identifying staff, Rebecca Tam Nesbitt, Hilda Cosmidis, Seiji Ishiguro, and Jae Yeon (Jasmin) Kwak, for a rich, reflective conversation about identity, representation, and belonging.

Together, they explore the impact of growing up and working in educational spaces. They share stories of struggle, pride, and growth while emphasizing the importance of diverse leadership and visibility in schools.

In line with this year’s theme, Unity and Diversity: The Impact of Asian Communities in Shaping Canadian Identity, the guests reflect on personal experiences and the broader implications for students, staff, and community.

Listen now

Tune In YRDSB is the first podcast of its kind in Ontario, featuring a wide range of topics related to education. 

Students Gear Up for the Transportation Challenge

Students showcased their automotive skills in various tasks, including brake disassembly, engine work, and car diagnostics in the York Region Skills Challenge transportation competition. 

Fourteen YRDSB students from five different schools competed in challenges that included:

• Disassembling and reassembling brake systems
• Removing and replacing intake manifolds from engines
• Diagnose a problem with a car
• Participating in mock interviews for apprentice positions in service departments

Students had the opportunity to apply and build on practical and transferable skills they’ve learned in school and through co-op experiences. Held at Centennial College’s School of Transportation, the competition also gave students the opportunity to see the college facilities and learn more about post-secondary opportunities. 

The transportation event is part of the York Region Skills Challenge events.

There are many opportunities in YRDSB secondary schools to build transferable skills, gain experience and explore interests in transportation and other areas of interest. Visit www.yrdsb.ca/expeience-yrdsb to learn more. 

Elementary Professional Activity (P.A.) Day - June 9, 2025

All Elementary Schools

Length: Full Day – AM & PM

Topic: Report Card Preparation, Reporting to Parents, Ongoing Communication 

Entity Hosting: All Elementary Schools

Presenter(s)/Facilitator(s): Educators

Description: Full Day of Professional activities focused on reporting to parents and ongoing communication regarding student achievement and well-being.

School Board’s Dismantling Anti-Black Racism Strategy Steering Committee Led by Community   

The York Region District School Board’s Dismantling Anti-Black Racism Strategy Steering Committee is now being chaired by members of the community. 

“I think it’s very important for the community to take a lead in the steering committee,” said Michael Bowe, one of the three steering committee co-chairs. “It really allows us to explore various challenges and gaps and successes of the board in ways that we weren't able to do.”

The YRDSB Anti-Black Racism Steering Committee was formed in June 2019 with the goal of developing a strategy to dismantle anti-Black racism at the YRDSB. The Dismantling Anti-Black Racism Strategy was launched in 2021. The committee, composed of YRDSB staff and community members, continues to meet regularly to ensure accountability and shared leadership in dismantling anti-Black racism.

“I believe that by Co leading and Co creating the work that's been done by the committee, hopefully it will create a better feeling of trust and better relevance to the community and people in the community will feel that they have a more of an opportunity to be heard,” said Dr. Jeffrey Thompson, Co-Chair, Dismantling Anti-Black Racism Strategy Steering Committee.

The committee is currently co-chaired by three community members: Michael Bowe, Phiona Durrant and Dr. Jeffrey Thompson. 

“That’s how I got involved; bringing that natural community, authentic community voice. Let us work with you to implement the change, to break down the systemic barriers,” said Co-Chair Phiona Durrant. 

Hear more from the three co-chairs about what this change means. 

Tune In YRDSB: Sikh Heritage Month: Significance of the Patka and Dastar

In honour of Sikh Heritage Month, this episode of Tune In YRDSB explores the significance of the Patka and Dastar, two important articles of faith within the Sikh community.  This episode also features the voices of students from Blue Willow P.S. who help to deepen understanding of Sikh identity and belonging in schools. 

Listen now. 

Tune In YRDSB is the first podcast of its kind in Ontario, featuring a wide range of topics related to education. 

Tune In YRDSB: Celebrating Persian Identities

In this episode of Tune in YRDSB, we celebrate Persian Heritage Month by exploring the importance of visibility, celebration and affirmation of Persian identities in schools. 

Listen now.  

Secondary Professional Activity (P.A.) Day - May 5, 2025

Secondary Schools 

Length: Full Day – AM and PM

Topic: Curriculum Implementation and Assessment Planning

Entity Hosting: Secondary Schools 

Presenter(s)/Facilitator(s): Board Based Personnel

Description: Staff will engage in professional learning to support Annual Learning Plan (ALP) goals, including course/curriculum planning, assessment and evaluation planning, and department/subject focused professional development activities.

D.A.R.E. Event Inspires Young Innovators Through Robotics

This week, elementary and secondary students from all over YRDSB came together for the 3rd Annual Differentiated Access Robotics Expo (D.A.R.E.) at Bill Crothers Secondary School for a hands-on day of STEM learning and robotics challenges.
 

This year's D.A.R.E. event continues its mission to engage community class students in grades 4 and up, in five different activities. Students used mini robot balls to complete a series of challenges, which included mini-putt, soccer, wrestling, obstacle courses, artwork and everyone's favourite, a dance party! With an emphasis on inclusivity and teamwork, the event creates an accessible space for all students to explore the exciting world of technology.

As participants took part in robotics challenges and STEM activities, they not only worked on technical skills but also learned the value of working together towards a common goal. The event has become a highlight for students and teachers, showcasing the power of education to bring out creativity, problem-solving and innovation in all students.

The D.A.R.E. Expo ensures that each student has the opportunity to shine, fostering an environment where everyone can grow, learn and connect through the magic of robotics.

GIVE Program Empowers Volunteers and Enriches Education

Since its inception in 2004, the GIVE (Get Involved Volunteer In Education) program has been providing valuable volunteer training and fostering strong community connections throughout YRDSB. 

Born out of a collaboration between the YRDSB and CCSYR, GIVE aims to empower parents, community members, school assistants and post-secondary students by offering comprehensive training for volunteering in local schools.

Each year, the program trains up to 100 participants across four cohorts at various Community Education Centres. Over the course of 15 hours spread across five days, volunteers are equipped with essential knowledge on topics such as Equitable and Inclusive Education, Effective Communication, Human Rights, Employment Readiness and much more. Upon completion of the training, participants commit to volunteering at least 20 hours during the school year, with many going above and beyond, returning year after year to continue their service.

GIVE plays an important role in supporting student learning by enhancing school-community partnerships. Volunteers assist both in the classroom and at home, helping students thrive in a supportive, inclusive environment. The program also contributes to the overall well-being and achievement of students by increasing parent engagement and strengthening parent-school relationships.

Since its launch, more than 2,500 parent and community volunteers have been placed in schools. Many GIVE graduates have even gone on to find employment with YRDSB, furthering their professional development and career opportunities.

The GIVE program also plays a crucial role in meeting Ontario's educational goals, aligning with the District Action Plan and the Multi-Year Strategic Plan. It promotes well-being, student success, and community involvement, making it an essential resource for schools and volunteers alike.

The GIVE program is a true testament to the power of volunteerism in education.

Tune In YRDSB: Women in Sport

In honour of Women's History Month, this episode celebrates the strength, resilience and achievements of female athletes. Hear from two outstanding student athletes from Emily Carr S.S. 

Tune In YRDSB is the first podcast of its kind in Ontario, featuring a wide range of topics related to education. 

Listen now to Women in Sport. 

York Region District School Board Seeks Community Input for 2025-2026 Budget

York Region District School Board invites families and community members to participate in the annual budget consultation process. Community members are invited to take part in a virtual public budget consultation and complete an online budget survey. The survey is open until April 18, 2025.

Survey translations are available in the following languages:

• Arabic
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Chinese (Traditional, Hong Kong SAR China)
• Gujarati
• Hebrew
• Hindi
• Korean
• Persian
• Punjabi (Gurmukhi, India)
• Russian
• Spanish (Latin America)
• Tagalog
• Tamil
• Turkish
• Ukrainian
• Urdu
• Vietnamese

WHEN:

Virtual Budget Consultation

Monday, April 7, 2025

7:00 p.m.

Registration information is available on the Board website. 

WHY:

Faced with a decline in enrolment for the 2025-2026 school year, public input plays a key role in informing YRDSB's budgeting priorities. The consultation process gathers valuable feedback from community members on how to effectively allocate the budget to support student achievement and well-being.

For more information contact:

Corporate Communications

communications@yrdsb.ca
 

YRDSB Black History Month Celebrations

Throughout February and early March, the York Region District School Board’s Inclusive School and Community Services department hosted four incredible events across each of our CECs, bringing together students, families, staff, community members and partners to celebrate the rich history, culture and contributions of the Black community. 

These events were a beautiful celebration with participants coming together to make meaningful connections, share experiences and create memories. 

Highlights of the celebrations included:

Interactive Performances – Steel drums, live music and vibrant dance performances by both students and community members, creating an engaging, lively atmosphere for all attendees to enjoy. The talent on display was nothing short of inspiring!

Student Art Showcases – Beautiful artwork from students across the Board was proudly displayed, showcasing their creativity, talent and unique perspectives. It was amazing to see how students interpreted and expressed their identities through their artwork.

Educational Displays – Attendees had the chance to explore displays highlighting the lives and achievements of famous Black Canadians and their monumental contributions to both Canada and the world. It was a wonderful opportunity to learn about the trailblazers who have paved the way for future generations.

The events not only celebrated the past but also provided a space for everyone to reflect, connect and look ahead. Through shared experiences and meaningful conversations, we continue to build a more inclusive and understanding community.

A big thank you to all the students, staff, community members and partners who made these events possible and helped make them so memorable. Let’s continue to uplift and celebrate the incredible contributions of the Black community every day. 

Tune In YRDSB: Supporting Black Students

In this episode of Tune In YRDSB, we discuss the important work to support Black students in our schools. 

Four YRDSB staff members explore the importance of creating spaces where Black students feel seen, heard and valued, reflecting on the effects of mentorship, allyship, culturally relevant curriculum, community engagement and much morel.

Listen now.

Tune In YRDSB is available on all major podcast platforms. 

Tune In YRDSB: Tamil Heritage Month: Arts, Music & Culture

In this Tamil Heritage Month podcast episode, we welcome several talented guests who are shaping the Tamil arts scene.

Host Jananthini Sivabasgaran welcomes Singer-songwriter and Bharatanatyam dancer Luksimi Sivaneswaralingam, Bharatanatyam choreographer Kashmia Balabaskaran and music producer Yanchan Produced. 

Together, they explore the deep cultural roots of Tamil music and dance, the role of the arts in preserving identity and how tradition meets innovation. This episode highlights the power of Tamil artistic expression and influence. 

Tune in to celebrate the richness of Tamil culture through music, dance and storytelling. 

Elementary and Secondary Schools (except BCSS) Professional Activity (PA) Day - January 31

Elementary Schools

Length: Full Day – AM & PM

Topic: Violence Prevention and Intervention, and Achievement of Learning Outcomes

Entity Hosting: Elementary Schools

Presenter(s)/Facilitator(s): Educators

Description: Full Day of Professional activities focused on violence prevention tools and techniques, and equitable assessment practices and assessment in mathematics

Secondary Schools (except BCSS)

Length: Full Day – AM and PM

Topic: Violence Prevention, Multilingual Language Learners, Achievement of Learning Outcomes, Equitable Assessment and Text Selection Tool, and School Improvement/ Department Planning

Entity Hosting: Secondary Schools (except BCSS)

Presenter(s)/Facilitator(s): Educators

Description: Full Day of Professional activities focused on violence prevention tools and techniques, supporting multilingual language learners, exploring equitable assessment, utilizing the Text Selection Tool, and school improvement planning aligning instructional practices with the curriculum. 

Tune In YRDSB: Experience the Performing Arts

In this episode of the podcast, we speak with a teacher and student at Richmond Green SS about how the Arts fosters creativity, leadership, communication and collaboration skills. 

Hear about the value of learning in, through and about the Arts and how a "learning through leading" model empowers students to take ownership of their creative journeys. 

Listen to the podcast episode now. 

All YRDSB secondary schools offer students opportunities to explore learning in the Arts. Learn more about opportunities to explore interests, build transferable skills and gain experience in the Arts in secondary school or in other sectors at www.yrdsb.ca/experience-yrdsb.

Indigenous Education Liaison Learning

Indigenous Education Liaison Learning empowers educators to deepen their understanding of Indigenous education and advance reconciliation within their schools.

“This training is really important because it’s shifting the mindsets really of Indigenous pedagogy and making it practical in their schools,” said Jana Girdauskas, Indigenous Education Consultant, York Region District School Board.

The professional learning series offers Indigenous Education Liaisons the opportunity to deepen their understanding and further the implementation of goals related to the Indigenous Education and Equity Strategy. They can also learn and share with other liaisons in schools across the board. 

“I believe as educators, it is so important for us to take up our calls to action and continue to advocate alongside them,” said Terri Joshi, Teacher, Hartman P.S. “And that begins in the work that we do in the classroom with our students.”