Peel District. Brampton Room. Wednesday, March 28, :00p.m. AGENDA. Instructional Programs/Curriculum Committee. School Board

Transcription

1 Peel District School Board ~ AGENDA Instructional Programs/Curriculum Committee Wednesday, March 28, :00p.m. Brampton Room

2

3 PEEL DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD Instructional Programs/Curriculum Committee Agenda March 28, :00 p.m. March 28, 2018 Open Session 1. Call to Order Approval of Agenda 2. Declaration of Conflict of Interest 3. Minutes 3.1 Minutes of the Instructional Programs/Curriculum Committee Meeting held on Chair's Request for Written Questions from Committee Members 5. Notices of Motion and Petitions 6. Special Section for Receipt 6.1 Celebrating Faith and Culture Backgrounder- April, Celebrating Faith and Culture Backgrounder- May, Delegations 8. Old Business 9. New Business 9.1 Terms of Reference 10. Reports from Officials and Staff 10.1 Football North at Clarkson Program Update 10.2 Urban Priority High Schools 10.3 Indigenous Education Strategic Action Plan

4 11. Communications - For Action or Receipt 12. Special Section for Receipt 13. Reports from Representatives on Councils/Associations 14. Questions asked of and by Committee Members 15. Public Question Period 16. Further Business 17. Adjournment

5 February 21, 2018 Instructional Programs/Curriculum Committee:lf PEEL DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD Minutes of a meeting of the Instructional Programs I Curriculum Committee of the Peel District School Board, held in the Brampton Room, the H. J. A. Brown Education Centre, 5650 Hurontario Street, Mississauga, Ontario on Wednesday, February 21, 2018 at 18:00 hours. Members present: Carrie Andrews. Chair Robert Crocker Sue Lawton Kathy McDonald Janet McDougald Trustee also present: David Green Members absent: (apologies received) Harkirat Singh Rick Williams Also present: Shamim Ali. Peel Elementary Occasional Teachers' Local Administration: Adrian Graham, Superintendent, Curriculum and Instruction Support Services (Executive Member) Anthony Edwards, Superintendent of Education. Alternative Programs Poteen Grewal, Associate Director of Instructional and Equity Support Services Lorelei Fernandes, Board Reporter 1. Approval of Agenda There was no quorum until 18:25 hours. Chair Andrews thanked everyone for their patience. IP-08, moved by Robert Crocker, that the agenda be approved. 2. Conflict of Interest There were no declarations of conflict of interest..... carried

6 February 21, 2018 Instructional Programs/Curriculum Committee:lf 2 3. Minutes of the Instructional Programs I Curriculum Committee Meeting, December 13, 2017 IP-09, moved by Janet McDougald, that the Minutes of the Instructional Programs I Curriculum Committee Meeting, held December 13, 2017, be approved carried 4. Celebrating Faith and Culture Charts- February and March 2018 IP-10, moved by Sue Lawton, that the Celebrating Faith and Culture Charts for February and March 2018, be received carried 5. Terms of Reference Superintendent, Curriculum and Instruction Support Services, Adrian Graham, advised that as part of the Board's regular review of the Peel DSB By-laws, the Terms of Reference are reviewed by Committees of the Board and changes may be proposed. A trustee inquired as to whether a statement referring to equity, inclusion, and success for all students can be added to the Terms of Reference. The suggestion was taken under advisement, and the Terms of Reference will be brought back to the next Committee meeting for discussion. IP-11, moved by Janet McDougald, that the Terms of Reference, be brought back to the next Instructional Program/Curriculum Committee meeting carried 6. Peel District School Board's Role in Supporting Students/Families Living In Poverty: Part 2 - Poverty Indicators Associate Director of Instructional and Equity Support Services, Poteen Grewal, recalled that the first part of the report was presented in fall 2017, at the Regular Meeting of the Board, outlining various Initiatives to support students and families living in poverty. She stated that Part 2 of the three-part report will be presented today, and Part 3 will require an action plan. She noted the value and importance of the report and invited Paul Favaro, Chief of Research and Evaluation, Research and Accountability, to present the findings. An infographic on Poverty Indicators was circulated. Using a PowerPoint slide presentation, Paul Favaro stated that the report is aligned with the Poverty Reduction Strategy of Ontario and Region of Peel, and follows as the next step of Peel DSB's role in supporting students and families living in poverty. He advised that the report includes a series of eight indicators to provide a picture of the impact of poverty in Peel DSB and to help track and assess progress made. With the help of a chart, he explained how Canadian Census data is used to capture the multi-dimensional nature of poverty using ten Social Risk Index (SRI) deciles and SRI gradients, which provide a measure of the socio-economic gap between students.

7 February 21, 2018 Instructional Programs/Curriculum Committee:lf 3 6. Peel District School Board's Role in Supporting Students/Families Living in Poverty: Part 2 - Poverty Indicators (Continued) Paul Favaro reviewed the eight poverty indicators listed in the report. He highlighted the three indicator measures for Students Living in Poverty, and noted the large disparity in average household incomes of Peel DSB students. The slides mapping poverty indicated that poverty exists across the Region of Peel and that areas of poverty are often hidden in areas of affluence. The School Readiness indicator considered Early Development Instrument (EDI) data which measures developmental expectations of physical health and well-being, emotional maturity, social competence, language, and cognitive development. With regard to Students Meeting Academic Standards, progress was measured using EOAO scores. Graphs on EOAO results disaggregated by subject and grade showed that the SRI gradient between decile 1 and 10 was far greater in mathematics than in reading and writing. High School Graduation Rates had a 10% difference showing that equity and outcomes differ between decile 1 and 10, and that students in higher income group fare better. Demographic indicators showed that: students in decile 1 to 5 are less likely to enroll in French Immersion; students from one parent families are three times more likely to Jive in a low income household; there are fewer gifted students and more students with identified special education exceptionalities with behaviour, language impairment and mild intellectual disability in decile 1 than in decile 1 0; students with autism, learning disabilities, developmental disability and hearing, speech and visual impairment were not impacted by poverty. With regard to persistent absenteeism, there was a 6.5% difference with highest rate of absenteeism in decile 1. Summarizing the results in the report, Paul Favaro highlighted that poverty is a major risk factor and that being able to identify, measure and understand poverty is crucial in supporting growth and development of students. Trustees speaking expressed appreciation for the report and spoke about the magnitude of poverty in Peel. Questions of clarification from trustees were responded to regarding: help for students living in poverty to access tutoring in mathematics; reviewing SRI data with respect to Regional Learning Choices Programs and offering these programs in low income areas; possibility of a student survey to collect data on ethnicity and race; whether OCT qualified teachers are trained in dealing with students living in poverty, and professional development for teachers in this regard; whether there is a procedure for schools to address poverty related concerns; ensuring high expectations while delivering curriculum to students of low income families. Regarding Board Chair McDougald's query about average family income in Greater Toronto Area, Paul Favaro indicated that $41,000 is the Low Income Measure (LIM) and poverty entry point for a family of four. Board Chair McDougald spoke about economic status of a household in relation to the educational level of the adults and the importance of parent involvement to improve student success. She stated that education leads to financial improvement, and suggested that the information in this report be shared with social services, Region of Peel, and the community. There was discussion on the benefits of education on individuals and society as a whole. Further questions and comments from trustees included: that the maps in the report reflect poverty areas by postal code and not by students; that educators and principals can inspire students by making them feel welcome and valued; importance of having a culture of believing in the potential of students; late busing results in absenteeism which affects student learning. Trustees thanked Paul Favaro for the informative report. IP-12, moved by Sue Lawton, that the report re Peel DSBs Role in Supporting Students/Families Living in Poverty: Part 2- Poverty Indicators, be received.... carried

8 February 21, 2018 Instructional Programs/Curriculum Committee:lf 4 7. Peel Alternative School Amalgamation- Update Superintendent of Education, Alternative Programs, Anthony Edwards, advised that a plan was put in place since September 2017, to amalgamate Peel Alternative School (PAS) West and South. He invited KarenThomas-Bianchette, Vice-Principal of PAS South to present a review of the amalgamation. Using PowerPoint slides, KarenThomas-Bianchette, provided background information of the plan to enhance the variety of opportunities offered to at-risk and in-risk students from PAS West and South locations into one PAS site, mirroring the model currently in place at PAS North in Brampton. She reviewed the benefits of the amalgamation to students and staff, which included: increased program options and opportunity to provide engaging multi-credit programs; more extra-curricular programs; access to dedicated classroom spaces; increased collaboration among staff; enriched extra-curricular and experiential learning opportunities for students; reduced fragmentation of teaching assignments over numerous programs; access to staff facilities which helps collaboration. Karen Thomas-Bianchette reviewed a chart on student enrolment at PAS sites for December 2016 and 2017, and commented that the enrolment is expected to grow. She provided information on busing arrangements for students and confirmed that busing is available for students at PAS North. KarenThomas-Bianchette spoke positively about the benefits of the classrooms that have been refreshed. She stated that the amalgamation was carried out in order to address the decline in student enrolment in Mississauga and so far it has been a positive and successful experience. She encouraged everyone to visit the PAS South site. IP-13, moved by Kathy McDonald, that the update report re Peel Alternative School Amalgamation, be received carried 8. We Rise Together- Thirteen Schools Pilot Using a PowerPoint slide presentation, Hiren Mistry, Instructional Coordinator of Equity and Inclusive Education, spoke about the six-part professional learning series for Equity Lead teachers and the overall goal of We Rise Together (WRT) 13 pilot project in 13 schools, to deepen educator understanding of the roots of anti-black racism and its impact on schooling. Referring to the Plan for Student Success, Melissa Wilson, Instructional Coordinator of Indigenous Education, stated that one of the focus areas for equity and inclusion Is to support black male youth. She shared information on experiences of black youth rooted in systemic biases, historical context of black male students reported in the Stephen Lewis 1992 Report, and reports by Ontario Alliance of Black School Educators and F.A.C.E.S. of Peel Collaborative. Reasons for the WRT Action Plan included, to integrate experiences of black Canadians into school curriculum, deliver bias awareness and anti-black racism professional development, engage with the black community, and to inspire black student leadership and engagement.

9 5 February 21, 2018 Instructional Programs/Curriculum Committee:lf 8. We Rise Together Thirteen Schools Pilot (Continued) Hiren Mistry explained that the 13 WRT schools were chosen through consultation with Peel DSB's Research team, senior leadership team and Carl James, and that the schools represent a range of Social Risk Index neighbourhoods from low to high. Professional learning is conducted for six full days for teachers, principals, and superintendents of education. Selection of teachers to be trained is based on criteria demonstrating personal commitment to anti black racism and to equity and inclusion. Melissa Wilson reviewed slides explaining the purpose of the training sessions, which comprises: introduction and culturally responsive pedagogy; Canadian history with an Afro-centric lens; race, racism and intersectionality, anti racism and future planning for collaborative inquiries for ; celebrating the learning and collaboration with anti racism scholars. Trustees speaking thanked staff for the report, and discussion ensued with regard to implementing WRT work. A trustee indicated that he will have a discussion with Associate Director Grewal in regard to a policy and accountability for carrying out WRT work. Another trustee spoke about lack of black history in Canadian history books in the past, and inquired whether curriculum materials will be available in schools that will address the issues. Superintendent Graham, advised that a writing team is developing resources which will be available for next year. Responses to questions of clarification and comments from trustees included that, training will be conducted in other schools and families of schools, principals are included in the training, and participation is required in all the sessions. A trustee suggested developing a resource for teachers on how to undertake WRT work. IP-14, moved by David Green, that the meeting extend beyond 20:30 hours to complete the agenda carried (2/3rds' majority) In response to a trustee's comment, Associate Director Grewal agreed that feedback from the focus group indicates that students want to hear from role models and narratives of black male educators, as well as black student mentorship and leadership opportunities. Board Chair McDougald thanked staff for the report and Communications department for updating the website, which has information on the progress made. She asked trustees to direct people to the website, where updated information is posted. Poleen Grewal will the website link to trustees. I P-15, moved by David Green, that the report re We Rise Together Thirteen Schools Pilot, be received..... carried

10 6 February 21, 2018 Instructional Programs/Curriculum Committee: If 9. Question Period There were no questions. 10. Public Question Period There were no public questions. 11. Adjournment IP 16, moved by Robert Crocker, that the meeting adjourn (20:45 hours). carried... Chair... Secretary

11

12

13 7 PEEL DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD 6.1 Instructional Programs/Curriculum Committee March 28, 2018 Celebrating Faith and Culture Backgrounder- April Recommendation It is recommended that this report be received. Background The Peel District School Board is a mosaic of many cultures and faiths from all over the world. Recognizing that faith is a part of the lives of many of our students, the Board committed to provide resources to help schools increase their connections to communities and better acknowledge faith and culture events of students and staff. The Celebrating Faith and Culture Backgrounder, April 2018 continues the monthly publication highlighting faith and culture days to celebrate and remember. Prepared by: Ashley Bigda, Community Relations Officer Submitted by: Carla Pereira, Director of Communications and Community Relations Support SeiVices Adrian Graham, Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction Support Services

14 8 Celebrating Faith and Culture Backgrounder April 2018 The Peel District School Board is a mosaic of many cultures and faiths from all over the world. To commemorate this diversity, the board recognises special faith and culture days of our communities. April 2018 has several special faith and culture days to celebrate and remember: April- Mmaal and Sucker Moon in Aboriginal Spirituality Mmaal is celebrated by Nisga'a people of the Nass Valley in northwest British Columbia. It is the season when rivers again become accessible after winter. The Nisga'a people can launch their canoes and resume travel on the Nass River. The fourth moon of Creation is called the Sucker Moon by the Ojibwe people. It is believed that Sucker goes to the Spirit World to receive cleansing and teachings for this world during this period. Aprill or 8 {J) -Easter or Pascha in Christianity and Canada Easter, also known as Pasch a, commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Christians attend special church services to celebrate the resurrection. In Eastern Christianity, the oldest and most important festival of the Christian year, it initiates the fifty-day period culminating in Pentecost. In Eastern Orthodox churches, the church year begins with Pasch a. The holiday's name is derived from Pesach, the Hebrew name of Passover. While its origins are religious, many Easter customs are less serious and have more to do with celebrating the beginning of spring: Some of the traditional celebrations include: painting eggs in bright colours and pretty designs arranging/participating in Easter egg hunts giving and receiving chocolate Easter bunnies Aprill (J)- Palm Sunday in Christianity Palm Sunday is the first day of Holy Week leading up to Easter for Eastern Orthodox churches who follow the Julian calendar. It celebrates the story of Jesus ~ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, where people spread palm branches and clothing before him. During Palm Sunday services, many churches distribute cut palm leaves, sometimes woven into the shape of a cross.

15 9 Sunset of March 31 to April 6 - Pesach (Passover) in Judaism Pesach, or Passover, commemorates the liberation of the Jews from Egypt and slavery. It is celebrated for eight days. Pesach begins at dusk (before sundown) on April loth. The first and last two days of the festival are full holidays - work is not done by followers. A highlight is the Seder (meaning "order") meal held in each family's home on the first evening of Pesach, when the story of their deliverance is recounted as narrated in the Haggadah (the Telling, the Story). Matzah (unleavened bread) is eaten throughout the festival, as are other foods that contain no leaven and are symbolic to the struggle. There is a great spring cleaning in the home before the festival to ensure that no trace of leaven is left in the home during Pesach. April 2 or 9 (J)- Easter Monday in Christianity and canada Easter Monday is the day following Easter and is celebrated as a holiday by followers of Christianity. Adherents celebrate it with many traditions depending on their country of origin. Egg rolling competitions and dousing each other with water are a few of the traditional celebrations. April 2-6 (J) - Holy Week begins in Christianity Holy Week Is the period from Holy Monday to Easter Sunday. In Eastern Orthodox Christianity It is also known as Great Week. It is the last week of Lent. Each of the days of Holy Week has its own traditions of services. April 4 or 7 - Avalokltesvara Bodhisattva's Birthday in Buddhism This day is celebrated by followers of Mahayana Buddhism as the birthday of the enlightened one who is most compassionate like Buddha and Is known as Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva. The celebrations include visiting the temples and offering prayers. April 5 (J)- Holy Thursday (Maundy Thursday) in Christianity Holy Thursday (Maundy Thursday) is remembered as the time Jesus ate a final meal together with his followers. On the evening of Maundy Thursday, Christians remember Judas' betrayal of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane. The end of Lent is observed differently by the various Christian denominations. Followers of the faith mark this period with prayer, fasting and abstinence.

16 10 April 6 {J) -Good Friday {Holy Friday) in Christianity and Canada Good Friday commemorates the execution of Jesus by cruciflxion.lt is a day of mourning for followers of the faith. During special Good Friday services, Christians meditate on Jesus' suffering and death on the cross, and what this means for their faith. AprilS- Farvardegan in Zoroastrianism Zoroastrians following Fasli calendar celebrate this ten day Farvardegan or Farvardingan festival honouring the dead. Followers of the faith believe that guardian angels of humans and spirits of departed souls (fravashis) return to earth during this period and accept the hospitality of relatives. April 9 to 27 - the month of Jaltil in Bahti'r rn the Baha'i calendar, there are 19 months of 19 days each. Each month represents an attribute of God. April 8 is the Feast Day for the beginning Jalal, the second month of the Baha'i calendar, signifying "glory." The Baha'i day starts and ends at sunset. The first day of each month is known as a Feast Day. Eve of April 11 or 12 to April12 or 13 -lsra and Mi'raj in Islam Mi'raj ai-nabiy commemorates the journey of the prophet Mohammed from Mecca to Jerusalem and his ascension to the heavens on the night of 27th of Rajab (seventh month of the Hljra calendar). This festival is also known as lailatui-miraj, lsra Mlraj, lsra, Me'raj and Laylat ai-mi'raj. On his return Mohammed imparted this knowledge to mankind. It was in this Ascent that five daily prayers (salat) were made obligatory for Muslims. The holyday will be observed from the eve of 22"d or 23rd. Sunset of April11 to 12-Yom HaShoah in Judaism This Holocaust remembrance day is a Jewish holiday. "Shoah" is the Hebrew word for destruction and is another name for the Holocaust. The anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising of 1943 is the date chosen to commemorate the six million Jews who died during World War II. In Israel, a morning siren sounds stopping all activity, and people stand in honour of those who died. Jews around the world hold memorials and vigils, often lighting six candles in honour of the six million Holocaust victims. Many hold name-reading ceremonies to memorialize those who perished.

17 11 April13 or 30 - Theravada New Year in Buddhism In Theravada countries, Thailand, Burma, Sri Lanka, Cambodia and laos, the New Year is celebrated for three days from the first full moon day in April. In Mahayana countries the New Year starts on the first full moon day in January. However, the Buddhist New Year depends on the country of origin or ethnic background of the people. For example, Chinese, Koreans and Vietnamese celebrate late January or early February according to the lunar calendar, whilst the Tibetans usually celebrate about one month later while the Burmese, Cambodian, Sri Lankan and Thai Buddhists celebrate their New Year on this day. April13 or 14- Vafsakhl or Baisakhl in Sikhism and Hinduism Celebrated throughout India, Vaisakhi has special importance for Sikhs. On this day in 1699, Sikhs believe that Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru, created the Order of the Khalsa and gave the five articles (kes, kara, kirpan, kangha, kachha) of the faith for amritdhari or initiated Sikhs. This is the holiest day of the year for followers of Sikhism. Sikhs celebrate this day by visiting gurudwaras and distributing kada prasad. Processions led by the Panj Piaras or the five religious men, are taken out. Kirtans and recital of passages from the Granth Sahib are also organized in gurudwaras. On this day, the farmers also commence cutting their harvest. The day is celebrated with Bhangra and Gidda dances in Punjab. Vaisakhi, the first day of the Hindu solar year, is celebrated differently in the many regions of India. The farming communities in the northern states of India celebrate it as an agricultural and harvest festival. For people in Himachal Pradesh, it is a religious celebration and for many others - Bengal and southern states it is the New Year's Day with its distinct customs and traditions. April13 or 14-Saka and New Year's Day in Buddhism and Hinduism The Saka calendar's New Year's Day is a religious and cultural celebration for Sri Lankan, Indian, Burmese, Kampuchean, laotian and Thai Buddhists. The Saka calendar is a lunar calendar based on the Hindu astronomy of the holy Vedas. This New Year's Day is celebrated also by Hindus in many Southeast Asia countries, such as India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Thailand, laos, Myanmar and Cambodia over two days. The exact date of celebration is determined by astrologers. New Year's Day observations, traditions and customs vary based on adherent's country however

18 12 common to all are feasts, gift giving, religious ceremonies and spending time with family and friends. April18 - Akshaya-trltlya in Jalnlsm Akshaya-tritya (Immortal Third) celebrates the day when lord Rishabha broke his first year-long fast by drinking sugar cane juice. Jains who fast on alternate days for six months, or a year, break their fast by sipping fresh sugar cane juice. People who perform the austerity of Varsitap {fasting for a year on alternate days or longer period at a time) complete the austerity on this day by taking sugar cane juice. This day is considered to be very auspicious for going on a pilgrimage to Shatrunjay (located in Gujarat, India). Sunset of April 20 to May 2 - Rldvan in Baha'i The festival of Rid van, considered the 11 most great festival" in Baha 1 i, is a 12-day celebration that starts at sunset April20 and runs until sunset May 2. The most important date on the Baha 1 i calendar, Ridvan (pronounced "Riz-wan") commemorates the public declaration of the prophethood of Baha'u'llah, the acknowledged founder of the Baha 1 i faith. The first (April 21), ninth (April 29) and 12th (May 2) days of Ridvan are all major Baha 1 i holy days. Baha 1 IS suspend work on the ninth day (April 29). April 24 - Zarathosht-no-Diso in Zoroastrianism en April each year, Zoroastrians following the Qadimi calendar, commemorate the anniversary of the death of Prophet Zarathustra (Zoroaster), the founder of their faith. Scholars say he lived between 1500 and 1000 BCE in northeast Iran. April 28 to May 16 the month of JamcU in Bahi 1 r In the Bahati calendar, there are 19 months of 19 days each. Each month represents an attribute of God. April 28 is the Feast Day for the beginning of the third month of Jamal, which signifies beauty. The Baha'i day starts and ends at sunset. The first day of each month is known as a Feast Day.

19 13 April 30 to May 4 Ghambar Maldyozarem in Zoroastrianism Followers of Zoroastrianism celebrate six seasonal festivals, known as the Ghambars. These are associated with agricultural seasons. Ghambar Maidyozarem, the mid-spring feast, celebrates the creation of the sky and the harvesting of the winter crop. Ideas for celebrating special faith and cultural days In your school If you have a colleague who celebrates one of these days, don't forget to offer them best wishes I If you have students in your school who are followers of any of the listed religions: -Make sure the dates are included on your school calendar - Have your principal announce the day over the PA system - Hold an assembly to talk with students about the importance of these days - Include a mention of these days in your school newsletter - Include information on your school website - Display student artwork announcing these days or depicting their ideas about these days - Invite a member of a local faith group to come in and discuss the significance of this day with students - Have class discussions about these days - Ask some of your students who celebrate certain holidays to write a short essay on how they celebrate this day at home. Have them read it to the class to share this celebration with the other students. - Have parents offer a cultural session Questions? If you would like any more information on how to celebrate these days, please call Ashley Blgda, Community Relations Officer at , ext or her Ashley.Bidga@peelsb.com

20 14 Celebrating Faith and Culture April 2018 DATE April April 1 or 8 (J) April1 (J) Sunset of March 31 to AprilS April 2 or 10 (J) April2 to 6 (J) Apri14or7 AprilS (J) April14 (J) AprilS April9 to 27 Eve of Aprilll or 12 to April12 or 13 April11 to 12 Apr\113 or 30 April13 or 14 April 13 or 14 April18 Sunset of April20 to May 2 April24 April 28 to May 16 April 30 to May 4 CELEBRATION Mmaal and Sucker Moon Easter or Pascha Palm Sunday Pesach (Passover) Easter Monday Holy Week begins Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva's Birthday Holy Thursday (Maundy Thursday) Good Friday (Holy Friday) Farvardegan Month of Jalal lsra and Mi'raj 1 Yom HaShoah I Theravada New Year 1 Valsakhl or Balsakhl Saka and New Year's Day Akshaya-tritiya Rldvan Zarathosht-no-Diso Month of Jamal Ghambar Maidyozarem I FAITH AND CULTURE i I Aboriginal Spirituality Christianity and Canada Christianity Judaism Christianity and Canada Christianity Buddhism Christianity Christianity and Canada Zoroastrianism Baha'i Islam -----, I -- Judaism 1 Buddhism I Sikhism and Hinduism Buddhism and Hinduism Jain ism Baha'i Zoroastrianism Baha'i Zoroastrianism - I I I

21

22

23 15 PEELD~TRICTSCHOOLBOARD 6.2 Instructional Programs/Curriculum Committee March 28, 2018 Celebrating Faith and Culture Backgrounder- May Recommendation It is recommended that this report be received. Background The Peel District School Board is a mosaic of many cultures and faiths from all over the world. Recognizing that faith is a part of the lives of many of our students, the Board committed to provide resources to help schools increase their connections to communities and better acknowledge faith and culture events of students and staff. The Celebrating Faith and Culture Backgrounder, May 2018 continues the monthly publication highlighting faith and culture days to celebrate and remember. Prepared by: Ashley Bigda, Community Relations Officer Submitted by: Carla Pereira, Director of Communications and Community Relations Support Services Adrian Graham, Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction Support Services

24 16 Celebrating Faith and Culture Backgrounder May2018 The Peel District School Board is a mosaic of many cultures and faiths from all over the world. To commemorate this diversity, the board recognises special faith and culture days of our communities. May 2018 has several special faith and culture days to celebrate and remember: May- Yansa'altt & Flower Moon in Aborlslnal Spirituality Yansa'altt is celebrated by Nisga'a people ofthe Nass Valley in northwest British Columbia. It is the season when the woods are filled with fragrance of berry blossoms that yield the fruit in the summer. The fifth moon of Creation is called the Flower Moon by the Ojibwe people. During this time, all plants display their Spirit sides for the World to see. During this period of new life, all are encouraged to discover their spiritual essences. May 1-Beltane in Wlcca Celebrated by Wiccans, Beltane is one of the four major sabbats (seasonal days of celebration). Beltane is a word that refers to the 'fire ofthe Celtic God of light.' This sabbat is the last ofthe spring fertility festivals, when nature is blooming and full of life. Beltane has also been known as May Day, as it is traditionally celebrated on May 1 with May pole dances. Another custom is to make a small bel-fire (a bonfire, or light a few candles} and either leap over the flames or walk between two bonfires for fertility and prosperity. May 1-Nlsfu Sha'ban in Islam Nisfu Sha'ban is observed on the fifteenth day of the eight month, Shaban in the Islamic calendar. The adherents observe prayers through a night long vigil, read the Quran and ask for forgiveness on this holyday. May 2-12th Day of Rldvan in Baha'r The 12th Day of Ridvan concludes this important Baha'r festival. The festival of Ridvan, considered the "most great festival", is a 12-day celebration that starts at sunset Aprill9 and

25 17 runs until sunset May 1. The most important holyday on the Baha'i calendar, Ridvan (pronounced "Riz-wan") commemorates the public declaration of the prophethood of Baha'u'llah, the acknowledged founder of the Baha'i faith. The first, ninth and 12th days of Rldvan are all major Baha'i holy days. These days are marked by communal prayers and celebrations and are days when work is suspended by adherents. May 10 or 17 (J)- Ascension in Christianity Forty days after Easter, Christians celebrate Jesus' ascension from Earth into heaven. The day is observed with worship, including prayers and music. In the Eastern Orthodox Church, Ascension, also known as analepsis, Is one of 12 great feasts and will be observed on May 17th May 16 or 17 - Ramadan in Islam Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic Calendar, is considered one of the holiest months of the year by followers of Islam. It is during Ramadan that Muslims observe the Fast for the entire month. Muslims fast (abstaining from both food and drink) during the daylight hours and in the evening eat small meals and visit the mosque and family. It is a time of worship and contemplation. Also a time to strengthen family, community ties and supporting the needy. May 17 to June 4- the month of 'Azamat in Baha'f In the Baha'f calendar, there are 19 months of 19 days each. Each month represents an attribute of God. May 16is the Feast Day for the beginning of 'Azamat, the fourth month of the Baha'i calendar, signifying ''grandeur." The Baha'i day starts and ends at sunset. The first day of each month is known as a Feast Day. Eve of May 19 to May 20 - Shavuot in Judaism Shavuot, also known as Pentecost, marks the conclusion of the period of seven weeks that follows Pesach (Passover). Shavuot commemorates the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. The observance of Shavuot begins at sunset on June 11 and is celebrated for one or two days based on the adherents' beliefs. Specific scriptures are read in the synagogue to commemorate Shavuot.

26 18 May 20 or 27 (J)- Pentecost in Christianity In western Christian churches, Pentecost commemorates the coming of the Holy Spirit upon Jesus' disciples following his ascension. It is often referred to as ''The Birthday of the Church." As the name suggests, it falls on the 50 1 h day after Easter.lt is a traditional day for baptism and confirmation of new Christians. May 21- VIctoria Day in Canada Canadians celebrate Queen Victoria's birthday on the Monday proceeding May 24 which is the actual birthday of the Sovereign. The holiday was declared by the legislature of the Province of Canada in May 22 or 29- Sakyamunl Buddha's Birthday in Buddhism On this day, Buddhists celebrate the birth of the founder of their religion. Siddhartha Gautama was born in the sixth century BCE, a prince of a north kingdom in ancient India. According to Buddhist scriptures, he was so concerned about the inequities of human life that when he was 29, he gave up his royal position, left home and strove to live a virtuous life. At age 35, he attained enlightenment and became Sakyamuni Buddha. He died at the age of about 80, and left a number of his students who continued to study and spread Buddhism all over the world. Buddhists celebrate this day by visiting temples to make offerings of prayers, incense, fruits, flowers and donations. May 22 to 25 -Aboriginal Week in Aboriginal Spirituality The second last week in May Is when the Aboriginal communities across Canada celebrate their culture, heritage and spirituality. During this period many Pow-Wows and gatherings are held. Eve of May 23 to May 24- Declaration of the Bcib in Bahct'r Siyyid Ali Muhammad declared himself to be the Bcjb, or "Gate of God," at two hours and eleven minutes after sunset on the evening of May 23, 1844 in the Persian city of Shiraz. Members of the Baha'i faith believe that the Bab was the herald and forerunner of Baha'u'llah, the messenger of God for this age. The date of his declaration marks the beginning of the Baha'i faith and calendar. Every year on this date, BaM'fs around the world gather to commemorate this event. They abstain from work on this day.

27 19 May 24- Zarathosht-no-Diso in Zoroastrianism On May 24, Zoroastrians following the Shenshahi calendar, commemorate the anniversary of the death of Prophet Zarathustra (Zoroaster), the founder of their faith. Scholars say he lived between 1500 and 1000 bee in northeast Iran. Eve of May 28 to May 29- Ascension of Bah.t'u'lhih in Baha'r This date commemorates the death in 1892 of Bah~'u'llah, the founder of the Baha'r faith. This anniversary is a day of rest and is often observed by prayers and readings. Baha'rs suspend work on this day. May 29- Wesak Day/Buddha Day in Buddhism For followers of Buddhism, mainly in Sri Lanka, Wesak is the major festival of the year, celebrating the birth, enlightenment and death of the Buddha on the day of the first full moon in May (except in a leap year when the festival is held In June). Adherents visit temples and pay homage to the Buddha with candles, flowers and incense. Chanting and prayers are important part of the day. ldeos for celebrating spedol faith ond cultural doys In your school If you have a colleague who celebrates one of these days, don't forget to offer them best wishes I If you have students in your school who are followers of any of the listed religions: - Make sure the dates are included on your school calendar - Have your principal announce the day over the PA system - Hold an assembly to talk with students about the importance of these days - Include a mention of these days In your school newsletter - Include information on your school website - Display student artwork announcing these days or depicting their Ideas about these days - Invite a member of a local faith group to come in and discuss the significance of this day with students -Have class discussions about these days -Ask some of your students who celebrate certain holidays to write a short essay on how they celebrate this day at home. Have them read it to the class to share this celebration with the other students. -Have parents offer a cultural session

28 20 Questions? If you would like any more information on how to celebrate these days, please call Ashley Bigda, Community Relations Officer at , ext or her

29 21 Celebrating Faith and Culture May2018 DATE CELEBRATION FAITH AND CULTURE May Yansa attt and Flower Moon Aboriginal Spirituality Mayl Beltane Wicca Mayl Nisfu Sha'ban Islam May2 12th Day of Rldvan Bahci r May 10 or 17 (J) Ascension Christianity May 16 or 17 Ramadan Islam May 17 to June 4 the month of Azamat Baha r Eve of May 19 to 20 Shavuot Judaism May 20 or 27 (J) Pentecost Christianity May21 VIctoria Day Canada May 22 or 29 Sakyamunl Buddha's Birthday Buddhism May 22to 25 Aboriginal Week Aboriginal Spirituality Eve of May 23 to 24 Declaration of the Bab Baha r May24 Zarathosht-no-Diso Zoroastrianism Eve of May 28 to May 29 Ascension of Baha'u'llah Baha r May29 Wesak Day/Buddha Day Buddhism

30 22

31

32

33 23 PEEL DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD 9.1 Instructional ProgramslCurrlculum Committee March 28, 2018 Terms of Reference Recommendation: It is recommended that the Tenns of Reference for the Instructional Programs I Curriculum Committee, be received. Background: As part of the Board's regular review of the Peel DSB By-laws, all committees of the Board are asked to review and propose changes, if required, to their Terms of Reference. Board approval is required for any proposed amendments to the Tenns of Reference. The current Terms of Reference for the Instructional Programs/Curriculum Committee are attached. Prepared by: Board Reporters Submitted by: Adrian Graham, Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction

34 24 PEEL DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD TERMS OF REFERENCE INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAMS/CURRICULUM COMMITTEE 1. To receive and study all product and process reports on educational programs. 2. To assess and evaluate existing programs. 3. To consider recommendations for deletions. revisions or extensions of existing programs. 4. To consider recommendations for new programs. 5. To consider staffing to meet program needs. 6. To study trends in education. 7. a) To consider professional development with respect to academic programs. b) To consider staff development programs with respect to Board employees. 8. To provide representatives for various committees and councils studying programs. 9. To review and make recommendations related to Board policies that have a direct bearing on the educational programs. 10. To encourage broader public awareness of the curriculum and programs provided and available in the Peel District School Board schools, and periodically plan educational forums for a variety of audiences. 11. To prepare comprehensive objectives which may be applied to planned program budgeting and evaluation systems. 12. To encourage the development of school programs that provide opportunities for curricular and co-curricular choice for students. 13. To consider and receive reports related to experiential learning centres.

35 25 APPENDIX E (2) Page2 INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAMS/CURRICULUM COMMITTEE Tenns of Reference 14. To monitor program issues relating to the Human Rights Policy. 15. To make recommendations and/or reports to the full Board of Trustees, as appropriate. NOTE: Items may be placed on the agenda for purposes of initial examination and discussion before reports are finalized.

36 26

37

38

39 27 PEEL DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD 10.1 Instructional Programs/Curriculum Committee March 28, 2018 Football North at Clarkson Program Update Recommendation It is recommended that this report be received. Background In February 2016, the Peel District School Board entered into a partnership agreement with Football North Canada to offer a first-of-its-kind football preparation (prep) program, offered in a Canadian public school. The program is geared towards elite-level student athletes who train year-round in football. To date, over 90 students have participated in the program from across Canada; 79 students from outside of the Peel District School Board. Beginning in September 2018, the program will expand to field a junior team, along with a varsity team. This program has been highly successful resulting in numerous scholarship opportunities for student-athletes to American and Canadian post-secondary institutions. For an overview of the Football North at Clarkson Prep program, please view the video available at the attached link Prepared by: Mary Zammit, Principal, Clarkson Secondary School Submitted by: Adrian Graham, Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction

40 28 Clarkson Secondary School 2524 Bromsgrove Road Mississauga, ON LSJ 1L8 Phone: Fax: Football North Students (2016 and 2017 School Years) Brant Haldimand Norfolk District School Board of Niagara Dufferin Catholic District School Board Durham District School Board Education Other Country Education Other Province Halton Catholic District School Board Halton District School Board Hamilton Wentworth District School Board Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board Ottawa Catholic School Board Peel District School Board Private School Simcoe County Thames Valley District School Board Toronto Catholic District School Board Toronto District School Board Waterloo District School Board York Region District School Board TOTAL 81 March 5, 2018

41

42

43 29 PEEL DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD 10.2 Instructional Programs/Curriculum Committee March 28, 2018 Urban Priority High Schools Recommendation It is recommended that this report be received. Background The Ministry of Education's Urban Priority High Schools (UPHS) initiative supports programs and opportunities for students in seven high needs secondary schools in the Peel District School Board. These schools and neighbourhoods are generally characterized by a high social risk index. Our UPHS schools include Lincoln M. Alexander Secondary School, Bramalea Secondary School, Chinguacousy Secondary School, Judith Nyman Secondary School, North and South Peel Alternative sites and Central Peel Secondary School. Using data such as attachment surveys, attendance, suspensions, guidance department, social work and psychologist referrals and grade 8 to 9 transition meeting information, the school is able to identify their most in-risk students. Schools then create programs, interventions and opportunities for target groups of students that assist them in overcoming the personal and academic challenges that hinder their participation in school and achievement. The school programs fall into five areas: family and community engagement, nonacademic supports for student social and emotional well-being, initiatives to promote social engagement and leadership for disengaged students, supports for academic engagement and achievement and violence prevention and personal safety. Examples of programs in these five areas include nutrition and health and wellness initiatives, extracurricular activities, summer programs, family and community outreach opportunities, lunch time and after school academic support. Prepared by: Pat Noble, Superintendent of Education Submitted by: Adrian Graham, Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction

44 30

45

46

47 31 Peel District School Board Instructional Programs/Curriculum Committee 10.3 March 28, 2018 Indigenous Education Strategic Action Plan Recommendation: It is recommended that the report be received. Background: Beginning in the school year, the Curriculum & Instructional Support Services Department invited fifteen schools - one per superintendency - to receive a package of professional development activities, and to participate in a learning circle to discuss the overall implementation of Indigenous Education in their schools. These fifteen schools teamed how to integrate Indigenous perspectives into the various grades and subject areas, in order to become lead schools that are moving towards an indepth implementation of Indigenous education. Each year. thirteen more schools will be invited to participate. In the school year, the Curriculum & Instructional Support Services Department added thirteen more schools - again one per superintendency. The goal was to create a structure within each family of schools to support Indigenous education from Kindergarten through Grade 12. The Indigenous Education Strategic Action Plan has evolved into a year 1 and a year 2 structure. Year 1 members receive a series of professional development opportunities (see attached) and year 2 members build school-wide collaborative inquiries in order to embed the cross-curricular learning into their schools. All of the above work is supported by the Central Board Office. As well, these schools work towards developing practises to honour Canada's Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action #62 and #63, which includes making age-appropriate curriculum and learning resources on residential schools, treaties and Aboriginal people's historical and contemporary contributions to Canada, to address teacher-training needs, and to identify the best teaching practices to support the above work. The overall goal is to create more intercultural understanding, empathy, and mutual respect.' In addition to the rich professional development that these schools receive, 12 teacher leaders from the original15 schools have acquired such a deep knowledge about Indigenous Education that they have become facilitators of Indigenous Education for Peel District School Board (PDSB). These 12 individuals support the work of the Coordinating Principal of Indigenous Education & Equity and the Coordinator of Indigenous Education by facilitating school based professional development requests. Finally the current 28 schools across PDSB provide added support for Indigenous Education within their local family of schools. Prepared by: Harjit Aujla, Coordinating Principal - Indigenous Education & Equity Submitted by: Adrian Graham, Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction Support Services 1 Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, Final Report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, Volume One: Summary (Toronto: James Lorimer & Company Ltd., 2015),

48 32 Package of Professional Development Activities: Training I Workshop Title: Cultural Competency Training, Cycle 1 and 2 Description: This workshop is conducted by the Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres. This workshop highlights the historical relationship between Indigenous people in Canada and settlers, and why this history matters in contemporary Canada. The KAIROS Blanket Exercise The Blanket Exercise workshop helps us to have urgently needed conversations about bow to live together on this land, which strengthens a national movement for reconciliation. The simulation demonstrates how settler colonialism bas removed Indigenous people from the land now known as Canada. Movie Nights There will be two movie nights. The documentaries we will watch include The Pass System (20 15), and Two Soft Things Two Hard Things (20 16). Each night will conclude with time to discuss how these documentaries can be embedded into classrooms. Book Clubs The two books to be read and discussed are Indigenous Writes by Pamela Palmater (2016) and Indigenous Nationhood: Empowering Grassroots Citizens by Pamela Palmater (20 15). Participants will be asked to read selections of each book, and discussions will take place in-person and/or via online forums. Presentation by Kim Wheatley This workshop will focus on traditional Indigenous knowledge, and contemporary issues. Traditional Storytelling by Monique Diabo This workshop explores the origins of traditional storytelling, and participants will learn creation stories and trickster stories by watching Monique demonstrate traditional storytelling methods. Presentation by Johnny Issaluk This 2-bour workshop will highlight the livelihoods of people living in Nunavut. Presentations by the Metis Nation of Ontario Aboriginal History Month Presentation by Dr. Niigaan Sinclair The two workshops presented by members of MNO include: 1. "Metis Way of Life": A Personal Presentation by a Metis individual on their way of life and what it means to them to be Metis. 2. "Famous Metis Figures Past and Present'': Presentation introduces some notable Metis historical & contemporary people. Dr. Niigaan Sinclair is a professor and Native Studies Department Head at the University of Manitoba. He presentation "What Does Reconciliation Look Like?" encompasses his research, activism, and his life experience as an Anishinaabe man.