November 27, 2023 – Board Priorities Day
Topic: Introduction to Gr. 7 and 8 Mental Health Literacy Modules
Entity Hosting: RRDSB
Presenters: RRDSB Mental Health Leader, Tracey Idle
Description: As per PPM 169, school boards across Ontario will implement Ministry-approved, teacher-led and culturally responsive mental health literacy learning modules for students in Grades 7 and 8 that respect the individual and diverse needs of students and ensure consistency in mental health literacy learning. School Mental Health Ontario has developed the mental health literacy modules, and RRDSB Mental Health Leader, Tracey Idle, will provide an overview of these resources will take place via Teams for all Grade 7 and 8 teachers across the Rainy River District School Board.
Topic: Exploring Anti-racist and Decolonial Approaches to Leadership in Schools, Communities, and School Districts (AM)
Entity Hosting: RRDSB
Presenters: Dr. Vidya Shah (York University)
Description: Dr. Vidya Shah will provide a keynote address on equity and racial justice in education. Her keynote will explore anti-racist and decolonial approaches to leadership in schools, communities, and school districts. Dr. Shah also explores educational barriers to the success and well-being of Black, Indigenous, and racialized students. She is committed to bridging the gaps between communities, classrooms, school districts and the academy, to re/imagine emancipatory possibilities for schooling.
Topic: Violence Prevention and Intervention (PM)
Entity Hosting: RRDSB
Presenters: Crisis & Trauma Resource Institute
Description: The Crisis & Trauma Resource Institute (CTRI) will be providing a professional development session focusing on Trauma Informed Schools - Building Safety of Learning. This session will provide practical strategies for implementing five key principles of trauma-informed schools: promoting awareness, shifting attitudes, providing choice, fostering safety, and highlighting strengths. Participants will learn about the impact of trauma on individuals and schools, learn how to build a safe place for students, and identify ways to respond with compassion to students in crisis. Other topics to be covered include how trauma impacts learning, promoting awareness among students and staff, shifting attitudes around students and behaviours, and ways to foster safety in schools.
View the agenda