PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE
Celebrating a Remarkable October at TDSS
Dear TDSS Families,
As we wrap up the month of October, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible energy, compassion, and achievement that have filled our school community over the past few weeks.
We began the month with our annual Terry Fox Run, a powerful tradition that reminds us of the strength found in hope and perseverance. Our students and staff came together not only to run, but to raise funds and awareness for cancer research, an issue that has touched all of us in some way. In addition, October marked Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and our school leaned in with heart and purpose. Through fundraising efforts and educational initiatives, we deepened our understanding and showed our support for those affected.
TDSS also shone brightly on the athletic front, bringing home York Region Championship titles in both flag football and tennis! These victories are a testament to the hard work, teamwork, and dedication of our student-athletes and coaches. We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments.
In our classrooms and hallways, October was also a time of learning and cultural celebration. Islamic Heritage Month gave us the opportunity to explore and appreciate the rich history, contributions, and traditions of Muslim communities. Students and staff engaged in meaningful conversations, shared personal stories, and built bridges of understanding that strengthen our inclusive school culture.
We closed out the month with a festive Halloween celebration, a joyful day filled with costumes, candy, and good fun. It was wonderful to see our students and staff embrace the spirit of the season with creativity and laughter.
As we move into November, we look forward to continuing this momentum. Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership. Together, we are building a school community where every student can thrive, academically, socially, and emotionally.
Regards,
Mrs. M. Lynch-James
Proud Principal
Tommy Douglas Secondary School
Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT
Dear Parents and Guardians,
This message is to inform you that your student will be participating in the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT) this fall. The OSSLT is a mandatory assessment for all Grade 10 students and is a requirement for graduation in Ontario.
Test Dates and Times:
- Session A: Tuesday, November 18, 2025
- Session B: Wednesday, November 19, 2025
- Arrival Time: 7:45 AM
- Test Start Time: 8:00 AM
Test Locations:
Students will write the OSSLT in either the Cafeteria or the Library. Room assignments will be communicated in a follow-up letter.
Preparation Resources:
To support students in preparing for the OSSLT, we encourage them to access the following resources:
- Our OSSLT Google Classroom, which contains practice materials and helpful tips.
- The EQAO public website, where students can access the official OSSLT practice test and sample questions: www.eqao.com
- Webinar Registration - Zoom -EQAO Webinar for Parents and Guardians: What to Expect on the OSSLT
Important Reminders:
- Students should arrive on time and be prepared to begin promptly at 8:00 AM.
- Please ensure your child gets a good night’s sleep and eats a healthy breakfast before the test.
- Students should bring their school-issued device fully charged, along with a pencil/pen. The school will provide paper.
- Backpacks, jackets, and phones must be left in the student’s locker.
- If your child is absent on the scheduled test day, please contact the school, a make-up session may be arranged.
We are committed to supporting our students in their success on the OSSLT. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the school.
Pathways to Opportunities Post-Secondary Fair
HOSTED AT EMILY CARR SECONDARY SCHOOL CAFETERIA
Thursday, November 13, 2025 from 6:00pm - 8:00pm
4901 Rutherford Road, Woodbridge
JUMP START YOUR POSTSECONDARY PLANNING
Vaping and E-cigarettes
The Ontario Ministry of Education released Policy/Program Memorandum 128 in the fall of 2024, which included a directive to school boards to set out enforcement mechanisms to address the possession, use and provision of tobacco, electronic cigarettes, nicotine products, recreational cannabis, alcohol and illegal drugs. In support of a comprehensive approach, vape-detecting devices have been installed in all YRDSB secondary schools. Please visit the YRDSB Caring And Safe School page for information on Substance Use and Misuse.
Our schools continue to provide education and support regarding the harmful impact of these products. Please see resources listed below.
Resources for Families
QUASH
- free smoking and vaping cessation app (co-designed by youth for youth)
- School Mental Health Ontario
- Vaping: What you need to know
- general information about vaping; outlines important facts, associated risks, and additional resources to support educators/families in having informed conversations with students
York Region Public Health (YRPH)
- Vape Facts: What You Need to Know
- a website containing YRPH anti-vaping campaign videos and vaping facts
- Vaping and E-Cigarettes
- a website continuing YRPH information on vaping and health risks
Canadian Lung Association
- How to Talk to Your Child About Vaping
- a pdf guide for parents about talking with your child about vaping and the risks