It’s the hip place to be on Monday night – our final official meeting of the year… on the agenda (which we’re still building…): update on PRO Grants for 2009/2010, the HDSB Parent Engagement Report, Association updates… and well, whatever else..

Still time to let us know what YOU would like to discuss… just add a comment below.

Hey guys! Let’s get out and support our special athletes! The meet takes place at Nelson High School, New Street, Burlington. 9:30am til 2:30pm. They’d love your support and it’s a really fun day. Dress for the weather!

It must be spring! The HDSB School Effectiveness survey is ready for you to complete… and you have until Friday May 15, 2009. to do so.

Parents may complete the survey on-line from the HDSB website at www.hdsb.ca, from wherever Internet access is available. If you do not have access to the Internet or need assistance in order to complete the survey, please discuss alternatives with your child’s school Principal or Vice-Principal.

NOTE: To log-on, parents must have their child’s/children’s Ontario Education Number (OEN), a number found on report cards.
Further information is available through your child’s school or by contacting the Research Department, Halton District School Board at (905) 335-3663.

Just created a “Polls and Questions” tab – check it out (just click on the tab above)…..

Today was busy in Brantford… Town Hall meeting began at 9 – Yaw Obeng (HDSB) began by reviewing the member survey and leading discussion re: what works and what doesn’t. Surprising to learn OFHSA’s ability to issue tax receipts was not too important to members. Much discussion around training and how to mentor new volunteers. Great suggests for the OFHSA web site as well.

Of course, what makes Home and School different from most parent driven groups is our policies —> the afternoon was spent discussing proposed new policies and direction. Thinking we’ll review this tomorrow – time to unwind!

Just finished a day of meetings which saw the nominations and acceptance of the OFHSA Officers for the next year. Also, discussions around our support of the Canadian Federation.. (details later)
Heading to the first part of the Annual General Meeting and the Opening Dinner
Beside dealing with the business of OFHSA, this is always a GREAT time to network and get to know parents and stakeholders from around the province.

More soon…

maureen

Once again, I find myself feeling inspired. At our Board of Director meetings yesterday we sorted thru some housekeeping type business and also passed a motion for the BOD to follow up with EQAO about the inequality in the testing and how test results are used – specifically the grade 9 math test results. It is up to the school and/or board whether a student’s results can account for between 10 to 100% of their final mark.

SO, a student at one school could be writing a Provincial test worth 10% while the school across town has the student\’s marks being soley based on ONE test. Not such a equal ground for a Provincially Standard Test.

I\’ll keep you updated on this hot issue!

Maureen

Those eligible for the Support for Special Education Students Award include teachers, parents, educational assistants, and volunteers who contribute understanding, compassion and strength in the area of Special Education. An additional Outstanding Achievement Award has been designated to recognize a student with an exceptionality who has demonstrated achievement, through hard work and determination, to reach their potential and beyond.

Nomination forms are available on the Halton District School Board website at www.hdsb.ca (go to tab titled Boardroom & Trustees). Forms must be received by Friday, May 1st, 2009. Please include the name of the nominee, the school they attend or are affiliated with, and why they are deserving of this honorary award.

If you haven’t registered for conference YET.. there is still time!

Date: April 25/26 in Brantford.

Workshops this year include: Facebook 101, What to do with the $500 Parent Involvement Funds, Conflict Resolution..
The AGM is scheduled for Sunday and includes a slate of topics parents want OFHSA to embrace – including lobbying for Energy Drinks not be sold to youth AND not allowing hats to be worn in schools.

This is your opportunity as a member to have a voice – to directly effective OFHSA policy… You’ve paid the $15 membership fee – why not be heard?

For info click on: Home and School Conference

Awards recognize valuable contributions to special education
Nominations accepted until Friday, May 1st
______________________________________________________________________________

The Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) has established two awards to recognize the valuable service and contributions of individuals in the area of special education.

Those eligible for the Support for Special Education Students Award include teachers, parents, educational assistants, and volunteers who contribute understanding, compassion and strength in the area of Special Education. An additional Outstanding Achievement Award has been designated to recognize a student with an exceptionality who has demonstrated achievement, through hard work and determination, to reach their potential and beyond.

Nomination forms are available on the Halton District School Board website at www.hdsb.ca (go to tab titled Boardroom & Trustees). Forms must be received by Friday, May 1st, 2009. Please include the name of the nominee, the school they attend or are affiliated with, and why they are deserving of this honorary award.

Please forward all nominations by Friday May 1st, 2009 to:

Pamela Cooley
Student Services Department
New Street Education Centre
3250 New Street
Burlington, ON
L7N 1M8cooleyp@hdsb.ca