Trustee Shelley Laskin Weekly Updates

Friday, 11 April 2025

Week of April 7, 2025

Talking about Race and Racism With Children



Talking about race and racism can feel uncomfortable for many adults, and the idea of having these conversations with children might seem overwhelming. But if we are truly committed to creating a fairer and more equitable world where everyone’s rights are respected, we can’t shy away from these important discussions.

Ongoing acts of anti-Black racism and the increase in other forms of hate—such as anti-Asian racism, anti-Indigenous racism, and antisemitism—remind us of the urgency to engage with children in meaningful, age-appropriate dialogue. Although these issues are not new and have deep historical roots, it’s vital that we help children recognize their own biases, understand the many forms of discrimination, and learn how to speak out against injustice.

These conversations shouldn’t only happen in response to major events—they need to be part of the ongoing learning that happens both at school and at home.

To assist families in having these important discussions, the TDSB has created developed TDSB Resource for Families (First Edition)

Invitation to Toronto's Inaugural Women's Professional Soccer Game

The Davisville Community has been invited to attend Toronto's INAUGURAL Women's Professional Soccer Game at 4pm on Saturday, April 19th, at a discounted price (10% off). Use the code: DAVISVILLE when ordering your tickets (see link below). This is a great opportunity to gather with other Davisville families and witness this historic event together. See the link below for instructions on how to order and more.

Here is additional information on the event:
AFC Toronto is a new force in Canadian women's soccer, marking a historic moment for the sport. On April 19th, the club will play its inaugural match at BMO Field, becoming the first professional women’s soccer team in Toronto to compete at this level in Canada. This is not just a game – it’s a milestone for gender equity, as it opens doors for young girls across the country to dream big and see professional women athletes as role models. For the first time, young women in Canada can watch their heroes play on home turf at the highest level, inspiring a new generation of players and fans alike. Join us on this exciting journey as we build the future of women’s soccer in Canada. Be part of the movement – because this is just the beginning!

April Learning Sessions for Staff and Families

Learning and engagement sessions continue to be made available for both staff and families, providing valuable opportunities to explore inclusive and anti-ableist practices and implement concrete strategies in the classroom and at home. These sessions are designed to support student achievement and well-being. Please click this link to access the sessions being offered.

Black Girls’ Book Club - Middle School Edition

The Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement is offering a Middle School edition of the Black Girls’ Book Club (BGBC). This year, participants will be reading Sparkle by Lakita Wilson, a powerful story that explores themes of self-discovery, resilience, and Black girlhood. The BGBC provides a space for students to build community, engage with literature written by Black women, and express their voices through discussion and creative reflection.

Date: April 15 - May 27, 2025
Registration link
Program flyer
Audience: TDSB Students (Gr. 6 - 8)


123’s of Numeracy

Join the Centre of Excellence in collaboration with the Numeracy Department for an engaging virtual session designed specifically for Black parents and caregivers of Black students in Grades K-8. This session will help demystify math by breaking down key concepts from the Ontario Mathematics Curriculum and providing practical strategies to support Black students in a culturally relevant way.

Date: April 16, 2025
Registration link
Event flyer
Audience: TDSB Caregivers and Community

Equity, Anti-Racism, Anti-Oppression

Community Consultations

The TDSB aims to be responsive to the voices of communities by developing tailored action plans, each based on the pillars of the Anti Hate and Anti Racism Strategy. This Spring, TDSB students, families and community members who self-identify as part of the Asian diaspora are invited to attend a community consultation to support a multi-dimensional strategy that affirms diverse and intersectional Asian identities and addresses anti-Asian racism within the TDSB. Learn more.

Dates: April 15 - May 20, 2025
Time: 5:30 PM
Audience: TDSB Students, Caregivers and Community







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