A Message from the Director of Education: Lead, Learn & Inspire Monthly Bulletin

Monday, Apr 20, 2026

Monthly Update from The Director

Grand Erie Families, 

We are in the final months of the school year, and I hope that families will have a chance to enjoy the warmer weather.

Earlier this month, we recognized and celebrated EA Appreciation Day on April 2 and School Librarian Day on April 4. On April 22, it's Administrative Professionals Day. We thank you for all you do to make Grand Erie an incredible place to learn and work. Later this month, it's National Volunteer Week. We thank all volunteers who enhance all aspects of school life to benefit students.

If you or someone you know has a child born in 2022, they can start Kindergarten in September 2026 and registration is now open. In the spring, we will host Kick-Start to Kindergarten events for registered families to help with the transition to school for the first time. The Brantford Bulldogs’ mascot, Bruiser, recently visited a Kindergarten classroom to help with Ready, Set, Kindergarten!

This month, I'd like to recognize several accomplishments:

Learning Updates and Reminders:

  • eLearning is a flexible approach that allows you to learn at your own pace, access materials anytime and anywhere, and balance your studies with other commitments. We have recently updated our website.
  • Grand Erie is committed to dismantling anti-Black racism through intentional, measurable, and sustained system change. We have refreshed our Addressing Anti-Black Racism Strategy publication into an online guide.
  • On May 4 and 5, we're hosting interactive booths and sessions with engaging opportunities. Explore topics and programs like Artificial Intelligence, Math and Literacy, The Grand Welcome Centre, Mental Health and Well-Being and so much more! RSVP your spot now.
  • All high school students must complete 40 hours of community involvement by the time they graduate from Grade 12. Students may begin to accumulate volunteer hours in the summer between Grade 8 and Grade 9. If you go above and beyond in your volunteer work during high school, you can earn a Minister’s Certificate of Recognition for Community Involvement when you graduate. 

Did you know? Grand Erie is taking a proactive stance to ensure the safe, effective and responsible use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) in the classroom. We are one of few school districts with a guide for educators and families, along with a AI Micro-credential available for all employees. 

System Updates:

  • Flexible Periods will offer secondary students an additional opportunity to demonstrate their learning based on the course material covered to date. The upcoming flexible periods will take place between April 27 and May 1 and will be scheduled by individual teachers.
  • The Technology and Innovation Hubs are exactly the future-ready learning and innovation opportunities we need to strategically explore and implement as a district. Launching September 2026, Grand Erie is expanding future-focused learning opportunities and connect secondary students to real-world career pathways in high-demand sectors.
  • We will lead forward with renewed Strategic Plan for 2026-30. The district-wide survey is available until April 15 to allow for broader participation and provide input to shape the future of Grand Erie.
  • The annual budget survey provides an opportunity for all employees, students, families and community members to provide input on the 2026-27 budget.

    Resources:

    Thank you for your continued support and partnership, together we are stronger.

    sig
    Dr. JoAnna Roberto, PhD

    Director of Education-CEO and Secretary of the Board
    Grand Erie District School Board

    Important Upcoming Dates

    View a full list of days of significance and Grand Erie events.

    More News

    Flexible Periods Available for Secondary Students
    Monday, Mar 02, 2026
    A Message from the Director of Education: Lead, Learn & Inspire Monthly Bulletin
    Monday, Apr 20, 2026
    Celebrating Women in Grand Erie
    Wednesday, Apr 15, 2026