PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE
Approaching the End of October
As we approach the completion of our second month of school, it is wonderful to see our students fully engaged in their learning, our staff working diligently to support student success, and our families continuing to provide invaluable support from home. I have recently released our interim report cards, (you should receive them via email from October 20-23) and we have held our Semester 1 Parent-Teacher Interview Evening (October 22). I encourage all families to maintain open and ongoing communication with their student’s teachers to ensure that students are progressing, meeting expectations, and working toward their full potential. If you were unable to attend Parent-Teacher Interview Evening, it is not too late to connect with your student’s teachers and arrange a meeting in person, by telephone, or virtually through Microsoft Teams. We recognize that student success is strongest when schools and families work in genuine partnership. Together, we share a commitment to ensuring that every student is supported, challenged, and empowered to achieve their potential while upholding the high expectations we have for our students, staff, and families as a school community and as part of our school board. Thank you for your continued collaboration, trust, and support as we work together to make this a successful and rewarding school year for every student.
The Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT)
Dear parents and guardians:
The Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT) measures whether students are meeting the minimum standard for literacy across all subjects up to the end of Grade 9. All students are required to meet the secondary school literacy graduation requirement in order to earn an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).
On November 17 and 18, 2026 all eligible grade 10 students, and previously eligible grade 11 and 12 students will write the OSSLT.
Here’s what to expect:
• Students will complete the test in two sessions (November 17 - Session A and November 18 - Session B).
• Each session takes about 65–75 minutes and must be completed in one sitting.
• Extra time will be available for students who need it.
• After Session B, students will complete a short questionnaire about their experiences and attitudes about literacy.
Once EQAO scores the test, each student will receive an Individual Student Report, which the school will share with them.
To help students feel comfortable with the format, EQAO offers an online practice test including the types of questions that will be on the test and built-in accessibility tools. You can explore these resources at www.eqao.com.
Supporting Responsible Technology Use at School
Technology is an important tool for learning, and we appreciate families' support in helping students develop responsible digital habits. As outlined by both school expectations and Ministry guidelines, personal mobile devices, including cell phones, should be out of sight and not used during instructional time unless explicitly permitted by a teacher for educational purposes.
We encourage parents and caregivers to speak with their children about appropriate technology use at school and the importance of staying focused and engaged in learning. Working together, we can help students develop the skills and habits they need for success both in and out of the classroom.
Understanding and Navigating the Education System-Families YRDSB Black Students November Information Session
Families, parents, and caregivers, please join us for our monthly virtual meeting, where families with Black children come together to learn about resources and upcoming programs for Black students in both elementary and secondary schools. Please visit the board calendar for the event and registration details.
When: Monday November 2, 2026
Time: 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Where: Virtual meeting. Link to follow.
Please register ASAP.
Black Foundation of Community Networks (BFCN) Scholarships & Awards Application Workshop
The Black Foundation of Community Networks (BFCN) will be offering another edition of their Scholarship Application Workshop! Join online on Wednesday, October 28, 2026 from 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Register for the BFCN Scholarship Application Workshop on October 28, 2026.
Terry Fox Run Success
A huge thank you to our Grade 12 Leadership students for organizing this year's Terry Fox Run. Through their hard work and school spirit, the event was a tremendous success, bringing our school community together in support of a very important cause.
We are proud to share that Tommy Douglas SS has raised over $500 for cancer research. Every dollar helps carry forward Terry Fox's dream of a world without cancer.
It's not too late to make a contribution. Our school fundraising page remains open, and donations are still being accepted. Thank you to all students, staff, and families for your generosity and support of this meaningful initiative.
2026-2027 School Council Dates
We are happy to share the School Council meeting dates for the new school year. All meetings are on Mondays in the library at 6:30 pm.
September 28
November 2
December 7
February 8
April 5