teachers
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Ontario’s $750 Classroom Supply Credit for Elementary Homeroom Teachers: Helpful, But Still Not Enough for Many Classrooms
The Government of Ontario recently announced a $750 classroom supply credit for elementary homeroom teachers, intended to help educators cover the cost of materials they often purchase out of their own pockets. The announcement recognizes a reality many parents may not see: teachers frequently spend their own money to make sure students have the supplies…
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Ontario Places York Catholic District School Board Under Supervision: What Parents Need to Know (2026 Update)
Published: March 5, 2026 Today, the Ontario Ministry of Education announced that the York Catholic District School Board (YCDSB) will be placed under provincial supervision. In a letter addressed to parents, guardians, and caregivers, Ontario’s Minister of Education explained that the decision was made after reviewing the board’s financial situation and governance challenges over the…
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The Big Shift in Ontario Education: What New Student & Family Support Offices Mean for Parents, Trustees, and YCDSB
Ontario is introducing Student and Family Support Offices in every school board under Bill 33. This detailed parent-focused guide explains what these offices are, how they may help, cost concerns, transparency issues, trustee accountability, and how they may impact the York Catholic District School Board (YCDSB). Includes lessons from other provinces and discussion prompts. 1.…
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Parent-Teacher Conference Guide for YCDSB Parents in Markham: Questions That Matter Most
As a parent with a child in the York Catholic District School Board (YCDSB), I’ve learned that those short 10-minute parent-teacher conferences can reveal more than a report card ever could. In most Markham Catholic schools, these brief meetings are a window into how our children learn, how they connect with others, and how we can best support them…
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Yesterday I Received a Flyer About Bill 33 — Here’s Why Every Ontario Parent Should Pay Attention
Yesterday, when I picked up my child from school, a teacher handed me a flyer about Bill 33, officially called the Supporting Children and Students Act (2025). I tucked it into my bag, thinking it was another school notice about upcoming events. Later that evening, I finally read it — and I’m glad I did. What I…
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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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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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Honored to Receive the Markham–Unionville Achievement Award from MP Paul Chiang
I’m incredibly honored to receive the Markham–Unionville Achievement Award from MP Paul Chiang, recognizing my contributions to education advocacy, community service, and civic engagement. This award means a lot to me—not just as a personal achievement, but as a reflection of the work we can accomplish when we come together to make a difference. From the beginning, I’ve always…
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How to Join a Catholic School Council: A Guide for YCDSB Parents
📌 Joining your school’s Catholic School Council (CSC) is one of the best ways to get involved in your child’s education and contribute to the school community. As a YCDSB parent, you have the opportunity to participate in school decisions, fundraising, and initiatives that benefit students. This guide explains how you can join and make a difference! 📌…
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IEP Request Letter Template for YCDSB Parents
📌 Use this template to formally request an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) for your child at a YCDSB school. Personalize it with your child’s details before sending it to the school principal. [Your Name] [Your Address] [City, Postal Code] [Your Email] [Your Phone Number] [Date] To: [Principal’s Name] [School Name] [School Address] [City, Postal Code] Subject: Request for an…
Yan Zhou on Catholic Education & Advocacy 