Dear TLDSB parents/guardians,
From May 6 to 10, Trillium Lakelands District School Board (TLDSB) will be highlighting the importance of supporting education and mental health as pillars of strong and vibrant communities in recognition of both Mental Health and Education Week in Ontario.
Mental Health Week
The theme for Mental Health Week this year is ‘A Call to be Kind’ – compassion isn’t just about being kind to others, it’s about extending that same kindness to ourselves. Kindness, consideration, and compassion are all traits we strive to foster and promote in our school communities. Research shows that kindness to both ourselves and to others helps reduce stress, increase a sense of belonging, and improve mood and overall mental well-being. You can see some of the ways in which TLDSB supports and promotes mental well-being in schools by visiting the Board’s Mental Health and Well-Being page.
Understanding mental health is an important first step in the journey to positive well-being. To support our families, all parents/guardians have been invited to the following upcoming events in May, including:
- Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe’s presentation on building resilience in children
- Supporting Children’s Wellness sessions for parents/guardians
TLDSB recently launched a Mental Health Services Newsletter, which provides information and strategies to support wellness. Additionally, the G7 Student Senate developed a mental health promotional campaign for students. Check it out by following the G7 on Instagram @g7studentsenate or visit TLDSB’s YouTube channel to see the video.
Education Week
Back to Basics in Education is this year’s Education Week theme, set by the Ministry of Education. TLDSB’s positive Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) scores from the 2022-2023 school year demonstrated that TLDSB’s recent focus on instructional leadership, professional development, and targeted math and literacy strategies is positively affecting student success and increasing achievement across the Board.
As part of TLDSB’s Strategic Plan commitments, we want to ensure that students have the opportunity to share information about their feelings related to their school experience and environment. Grade 4 to 12 students will participate in a School Climate Survey in class during the week of May 6 to 10. Results from the survey will assist our educators and our mental health teams to further improve supports for student achievement and well-being.
On behalf of trustees and the senior team, thank you to staff, parents/guardians, and community partners for your unwavering support for TLDSB students. I am wishing everyone all the best for the final two months of the school year.
Sincerely,
Wes Hahn
Director of Education
Trillium Lakelands District School Board
