Near North students back in class

Near North District School Board
News Release

**********************

Today is the first day of school for more than 11,000 students in the Near North District School Board. The Board’s 41 elementary and secondary schools have re-opened to welcome students to a wide variety of programs and services.

There are many great things on the horizon for the Near North District School Board as we begin on another journey with our students. We will continue our focus on four areas that were identified as priorities in the Near North District School Board’s Strategic Plan: Excellence in Creating a Culture of Caring, Excellence in Teaching and Learning, Excellence in Information and Educational Technology and Excellence in Human and Physical Resources. Together as a caring educational community, we will continue to make a difference in the lives and achievements of our students.

At the elementary level, we will build upon our gains in literacy, numeracy and focus on subject-based achievement through creative and vibrant programming. Our youngest learners will benefit from a new Full Day Learning program at four schools across the district: E.W. Norman Public School, Marshall Park Public School, M.T. Davidson Public School and Victory Public School. Participation in Kindergarten transition programs, such as Welcome to Kindergarten and Let the Learning Begin will be continuing. Our three French programs: Early Immersion, Extended French and Core French continue to grow.

Specialist High Skills Majors in our Board has expanded to thirteen programs for the 2010-2011 school year. This program offers students an opportunity to complete a bundle of classroom courses, workplace experiences and sector certifications to receive a special designation on their diploma. Expanded ‘E-Learning’ and ‘Distance Learning’ opportunities will continue for students.

Interactive learning opportunities continue to expand in Near North schools by using SMART Boards, document cameras, mobile technology and interactive hand held response units in the classroom. A major initiative this year involves the implementation and expansion of environmental education through leadership, curriculum, staff, student and community engagement.

The Near North District School Board is committed to supporting the needs of each and every student as we work together to help our students reach their fullest potential. The trustees and staff of the Board welcome everyone back to school and look forward to another highly successful year.

**********************