yanz1982
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Too Hot to Learn? How Schools and Parents Can Work Together During Heat Waves
By Yan Zhou | Parent & Catholic School Council Member As summer temperatures rise, many classrooms across the Greater Toronto Area are feeling the heat — literally. In some schools, especially older buildings without full air conditioning, classrooms (especially on upper floors) can become uncomfortably warm during heat waves. As a parent and school council…
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My Experience as a Parent Observing Spirit of Math: A Gifted Child’s Journey in Math Enrichment
Introduction As a parent of a gifted child in York Region, I’m always searching for programs that can truly challenge and support his learning. When my son was about to enter Grade 1, we decided to enroll him in Spirit of Math, one of Canada’s most recognized after-school math enrichment programs for high-performing students. What made the experience…
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Raising Twice-Exceptional (2e) Children: A Parent’s Comprehensive Guide to Nurturing Strengths and Supporting Struggles
Raising a twice-exceptional (2e) child — someone who is gifted and also has learning differences — is a complex, often misunderstood parenting journey. These children are intellectually advanced but may also struggle with ADHD, autism, anxiety, dyslexia, or other diagnoses. While their potential is immense, it often comes wrapped in layers of social, emotional, and…
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Split-Grade Classrooms in Ontario: Navigating the Pros, Cons, and Realities
Introduction As a parent actively involved in our school’s Catholic School Council (CSC) and a prospective YCDSB trustee candidate for 2026, I’ve encountered numerous discussions and concerns surrounding split-grade classrooms. These conversations often revolve around questions like: These are valid concerns, and it’s essential to delve into the intricacies of split-grade classrooms to provide clarity…
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What Catholic School Councils (CSCs) Can and Cannot Do With YCDSB: A Parent’s Guide
What Catholic School Councils (CSCs) Can and Cannot Do With YCDSB: A Parent’s Guide Serving on a Catholic School Council (CSC) is a powerful way for parents to be involved in their children’s education. But for many first-time members (and even experienced ones), the rules and boundaries of what CSCs can and cannot do aren’t…
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How Are Catholic School Council (CSC) Minutes Shared with Parents?
How Are Catholic School Council (CSC) Minutes Shared with Parents? If you’re a parent or guardian with a child in a Catholic elementary or secondary school, you may be wondering how to stay informed about what’s being discussed at Catholic School Council (CSC) meetings. One of the most important tools for transparency is the CSC…
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How Do School Councils Promote Fundraising Events?
How Do School Councils Promote Fundraising Events? CSCs can promote fundraising events in several school-approved, parent-friendly ways, but always with school principal approval. Here’s what the process usually looks like: ✅ 1. School Newsletter / Principal’s Weekly Email • This is the most common and reliable method. • Fundraising details (date, purpose, how to participate)…
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What Does Scribing Look Like in an IEP? A Parent’s Guide
What Does Scribing Look Like in an IEP? A Parent’s Guide As parents, we want our children to succeed in school — and that means making sure the right supports are in place. One commonly misunderstood IEP accommodation is “Scribing.” If a teacher or school asks you for input on your child’s IEP and mentions…
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Can outside professionals work in schools?
Can Outside Professionals Work in Schools? A Parent’s Perspective As a parent navigating the school system, especially when your child has special learning or developmental needs, you might wonder: “Can I bring my child’s private therapist, SLP, OT, BCBA, or psychologist into the school or classroom to help?” I’ve asked that question myself. And after…
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Sample Donation Request Letter for Catholic Elementary School Councils (CSC)
Sample Donation Request Letter for Catholic Elementary School Councils (CSC) Engaging Local Businesses to Support Student Success As members of a Catholic Elementary School Council (CSC), one of our key responsibilities is to support school initiatives through community engagement and fundraising. While CSCs are limited to two major fundraising events per year under Policy 606,…
Yan Zhou on Catholic Education & Advocacy 