Welcome Back!

Thumbs upBackpacks, books and smiling faces dotted the landscape in Niagara today as students at the District School Board of Niagara welcomed the start of another exciting school year.

Our teachers, principals and support staff have also been eagerly anticipating this day, and have worked hard to fill classrooms with many engaging and educational activities.

The DSBN is committed to student success, and this year we are introducing a variety of new programs and supports to meet the needs of all learners.

For example:

• Parents and caregivers interested in giving younger children a head start in their learning are invited to visit one of the DSBN’s four new Parenting and Family Literacy Centres. These new centres give parents and children an opportunity to learn and play in a safe and stimulating environment. They’re free to attend and snacks will be provided. Our PFLCs are located at Lincoln Centennial Public School in St. Catharines, Plymouth Public School in Welland, Kate S. Durdan Public School in Niagara Falls and Rose Seaton Public School in Fort Erie North. Contact the schools for more details!

• DSBN is extending full-day kindergarten programs to nine more schools for a total of 17 full-day kindergarten programs

• For our secondary students, the DSBN is expanding our popular Specialist High Skills Majors programs. This year, we are adding ten more programs in three new sectors; Energy, Arts and Culture and Horticulture. That brings the total offering to 29 programs in nine different sectors. For more information, click here. 

Of course, learning doesn’t just take place inside the walls of our classrooms during school hours. DSBN Director of Education Warren Hoshizaki says parent involvement is key to student success. “It’s important to take some time each day to read with your children and talk to them about their day and find out more about their interests, strengths and viewpoints.” Click here to listen to Director Hoshizaki’s message for parents on 610 CKTB.

In the 2009/2010 school year, the DSBN will serve more than 40,000 students in its 98 elementary and 22 secondary schools.

Have a wonderful, safe and successful school year!