Week of February 19th, 2024

 Canadian Multicultural Inventors Museum

On Wednesday, February 21st, 2024, we had the CMIM at our school. The exhibit showcased and highlighted the contributions and achievements of innovators and inventors of African descent from the United Kingdom, Africa, Caribbean, North, South and Central America. At Davisville JPS & Spectrum Alternative, we are making a concerted effort to rethink and reframe our curriculum to ensure we bring in African and Black Canadian history into our curriculum. Our curriculum needs to be inclusive and representative of the diverse perspectives, voices and contributions of all, especially those who have historically been marginalized and disenfranchised.

The contribution of Black scientists, engineers, and mathematicians has led to game-changing and revolutionary discoveries and inventions. Black innovators and inventors have changed the world significantly throughout history. From space exploration and scientific discoveries, to tech innovations and more, there are many Black heroes in STEM whose work has shaped our lives. 

Guest Speaker, Karl Subban

On February 29th, we welcome guest speaker, Karl Subban, to our school. Karl will read his new book to students and share his experiences as a coach, hockey dad and educator. Karl will share his empowering stories of family, community, and resilience to encourage students to live out their dreams and reach their potential.  

Please note that all families are welcome to attend this event. If you are interested in attending, please ensure that you look the schedule below and coordinate your visit accordingly, so that it corresponds to the time when your child's grade will be in the gym for the presentation. 

9:15-10:00: Grades 1-3

10:05-10:30: Kindergarten Classes

10:35-11:20: Grades 4-8

Responding to Everyday Prejudice, Bias and Stereotypes at Davisville JPS & Spectrum Alternative

The TDSB serves the needs of a diverse student and staff population. This context is relevant in understanding the impact(s) of bias, hate, and/or racism. TDSB's foremost goal is to eradicate discrimination in all of its forms because of the impact it has on individuals (students and staff), the school climate, and the academic achievement and wellbeing of our students.

At Davisville JPS/Spectrum Alternative, we strive to ensure equitable and inclusive learning and working environments for all of our students, staff and families. This is an important element of our overall school vision and school goals. We recognize our duty to protect human rights and to proactively disrupt discrimination, racism, and bias in our school community.

We recognize that disrupting and dismantling hate, bias and racism is a concerted effort involving staff, students and families. Our goal is to work collectively together to create a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment for all in our school community. Students in our classes will be having important discussions on racism, hate and bias, and will learn ways to "call in" and "call out" bias, racism and discrimination. There is no place for this in any of our schools.

One guide that is particularly helpful is the Speak Up Guide: How to Respond to Everyday Prejudice, Bias and Stereotypes.  Please take a moment to review this information on ways we can take collective action to ensure an inclusive school environment for all. It would be helpful to have these discussions at home with your children and also equip them with strategies to speak up, challenge and take a stand against bias, racism, and discrimination.

Building Mathematical Minds

Inviting all K-Gr. 8 parents/caregivers to a session entitled, "Building Mathematical Minds." This parent/caregiver session will offer math strategies that you can use to support your child's learning at home. Please refer to the link below for further details on the time and date of this event, as well as details on how to register:

Building Mathematical Minds

Special Education and Inclusion: Parent/Guardian/Caregiver Session #2

Special Education and Inclusion is pleased to offer their second engagement session for parents/guardians/caregivers this year. Please see the below for details: Parent/Guardian/Caregiver Session #2 Morning Session - Tuesday, March 5th, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Webinar Link Parent/Guardian/Caregiver Session #2 Evening Session - Wednesday, March 6th, 2024 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Webinar Link If you require a language interpreter, please send in your request by February 20th to SpecialEd@tdsb.on.ca. City of Toronto Spring Recreation Programs The City offers thousands of low-cost & affordable recreation programs. From painting classes to karate to pickleball and cooking classes, there’s something for everyone. Find the spring programs online & get ready to register on March 5 & 6: http://toronto.ca/SpringRec. Level Up Middle School Engineering Science Fair The Science Fair provides students with the chance to collaborate with peers, receive feedback from industry professionals, and showcase their solutions to real-world challenges. Contact Kirusha Srimohanarajah, P.Eng Education Chair, PEO Kingsway Chapter at kirushasri@gmail.com for a comprehensive registration guide that includes everything teams need to get started, from registration procedures to preparing a compelling pitch.