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

Tuesday, Sep 23, 2025

Grand Erie Families,

The first few weeks of a new school year brings excitement, curiosity, and optimism; not only for students, but staff and parents/caregivers.

This year, we are entering the final year of Strategic Plan. Together, we have experienced a lot of successes and improvements for all learners. We will continue to be guided by this plan and look forward to engaging the Grand Erie community on the development of the next strategic plan later this year.

On September 30, we recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day. Across Grand Erie, Orange Shirt Day will be observed in meaningful ways, guided by the Indigenous Education Team and through the collective efforts of schools and workspaces. This year is especially important as the Woodland Cultural Centre will reopen as an Interpretive Historic Site and Educational Resource and the 10th anniversary of the final report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.

In 2024-25, a Secondary School Program Review examined secondary programs and schools within the context of Grand Erie’s Long-Term Accommodation Plan. Consultation with students and staff coupled with a review of Grand Erie data and provincial research, identified several areas for program changes.

We are always looking for innovative opportunities to provide the best experience for students. New this year, we are excited to launch two pilot initiatives to provide Grade 9 students at Brantford Collegiate Institute with free Brantford Transit bus passes and Grade 9 students at North Park Collegiate with free memberships to the Wayne Gretzky Centre.

This summer, we launched a new camp for young women eager to dive into all things technology. InnovateHER marked a week of empowerment, creativity and mentorship as young women uncovered technological solutions to real-world problems hosted at the Innovation Hub @ Grand Erie. Stay tuned for more opportunities and events.

Through literacy, we hope to ease the nerves and spark excitement for new Kindergarten students. Families registering their children for Kindergarten in 2026 can look forward to receiving welcome package including a copy of "What Did You Do At School Today?" by C.C. Lacavera, a Welcome to Kindergarten Activity Book and Amir’s/Amira’s First Day of Kindergarten provided by the Ministry of Education.

We have captured a complete list of accomplishments in the September edition of the Director’s Report.

The Ontario government is launching its annual Level Up! career fair to showcase the skilled trades. Students in Grades 7 to 12, their parents/caregivers and jobseekers will be able to explore these careers through exhibits, demonstrations and conversations with tradespeople and employers.

As we continue to build a culture of learning, well-being and belonging, I want to highlight School Mental Health Ontario for the resource library they continue to build for students and parents and caregivers. Together, we can support the mental health of every student.

Thank you for choosing Grand Erie and for partnering with us in your child’s learning journey.

Dr. JoAnna Roberto, PhD
Director of Education and Secretary of the Board
Grand Erie District School Board

 

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