Read highlights from the December 17, 2024 Board Meeting.
Catch up on the key highlights from the Regular Board Meeting of December 17, 2024.
Watch the full meeting on YouTube:
PRESENTATIONS
Education Services – English Language Learners
Ryan Larson, English Language Tutor presented a report on the remarkable growth and success of the KCDSB English Language Learners (ELL) program. Since fall 2022, the program has expanded from 10 to 56 students, a 550% increase, representing 18 countries and over 20 home languages. This growing diversity reflects a shifting demographic in Kenora and underscores the Board's commitment to supporting new Canadians and their families.
Ryan detailed his multifaceted role, which includes welcoming students and families, assessing English and math skills, providing one-on-one and group teaching, developing resources, collaborating with staff, and bridging communication gaps between schools and families. His efforts aim to create a smooth transition for students, foster a sense of belonging, and support academic and social success.
He shared stories of student achievements, from overcoming language barriers to excelling in academics and extracurricular activities. Notable successes included a Grade 10 student who progressed from struggling to complete assignments to confidently writing essays and a high school basketball player who joined the team with tailored language support.
The program’s focus on bridging cultural and linguistic gaps, combined with proactive strategies and collaboration, highlights KCDSB's dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive school environment for its growing multicultural community.
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Student Trustee Report
The Student Trustees reported on the high spirits and excitement at St. Thomas Aquinas High School as the holiday break approaches. Students and staff are engaged in academics, sports, arts, and community initiatives, making December a vibrant and meaningful month.
Students and teachers are preparing for culminating activities and final exams, with the mobile device ban continuing to foster a more supportive and engaged school environment. Sports teams have represented the school admirably in games and tournaments, overcoming weather-related rescheduling thanks to the dedication of coaches and volunteers.
Faith-based activities, including Advent and Christmas prayer services, have uplifted the school community, culminating in a celebration of Jesus’ birth and the season of giving. The arts have also flourished, highlighted by the Christmas concert on December 12 and the monthly jam night. Students are eagerly preparing for the school play Little Women, which promises to be another exciting opportunity to showcase their talents.
Leadership students have spread holiday cheer through visits to Pinecrest and festive projects with elementary students, including a "Christmas Lane" for younger students. The upcoming talent show on December 20 is eagerly anticipated as a celebration of student creativity.
FNMI initiatives provided valuable learning experiences, including the Winter Celebration at Strecker's Farm, where students explored traditional Indigenous practices. The Kenora Chiefs Advisory job fair introduced Grade 7 students to various career paths, while the new Leadership in Training program is developing leadership skills through the Seven Sacred Grandfather Teachings.
POLICY
Policy #5 - Trustee Code of Conduct
Trustees received a comprehensive review and report on the following procedures, which were thoroughly discussed at the December Policy Governance Committee Meeting and approved at the December 17 Board Meeting:
Policy #5 – Trustee Code of Conduct
PERSONNEL
Appointment of the Director of Education Selection Committee
The Board of Trustees approved the formation of the Director of Education Selection Committee, comprised of no fewer than four trustees. The following Trustees were appointed to the committee:
• Teresa Gallik
• Paul Landry
• Jeffrey White
• Marie Lundin
• Lorne Temple
• Derek Favreau
This committee will lead the process of selecting the next Director of Education, ensuring it is conducted with diligence and collaboration.
FINANCE
2023 – 2024 Internal Audit Committee Report
Alison Smith, Superintendent of Business, Facilities, and Planning Services, presented the Annual Audit Committee Report for the fiscal year ending August 31, 2024. This report, prepared in accordance with Ontario Regulation 361/10, has been forwarded to the Ministry of Education.
The report highlights the internal audit activities conducted during the 2023–2024 fiscal year:
• Completed: Supply Staffing Audit
• In Progress: Recruiting, Hiring, and Retaining Talent Audit
This audit process supports the Board’s commitment to accountability and effective management practices.
2023 – 2024 Audited Financial Statements
Jennifer Pyzer-Whetter of BDO Canada LLP provided a report on the Board’s 2023 – 2024 Audited Financial Statements. For the year ending August 31, 2024, the Board has an annual deficit of $837,038 and an accumulated surplus of $2,428,557.
The Board is not within the 1 % compliance with Ministry of Education legislation and will be implementing a deficit recovery plan.
2024 – 2025 Revised Estimates
Superintendent Alison Smith, presented the 2024–2025 Revised Estimates based on the October 31, 2024, enrolment report. The Board had projected an enrolment of 1,265 students; however, the actual enrolment as of October 31 was 1,252 students, reflecting a decrease of 13 students.
The annual deficit is projected to be $351,593, which falls within the 1% compliance threshold from the Ministry of Education.
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