Introduction
Welcome to the November 2025 edition of Inside Education. As we move further into the school year and the holidays begin to approach, this is a meaningful time to reflect on the progress being made across our board. We are proud of the continued effort and care shown each day, and we look ahead with appreciation for the work already accomplished and optimism for what is still to come.
Remembrance Day
Flags at all of our schools and workplaces were lowered to half mast to honour Indigenous Veteran's Day on November 8th and Remembrance Day on November 11th.
Many of our schools hosted ceremonies and took part in learning activities that highlighted the importance of remembering and thanking those who helped shape our nation and safeguarded the freedoms we enjoy.
Students and staff from Northwood Elementary School joined AM800 to share a moving Remembrance Day poem and reflect on what the day means to them, and how they honour it within their school community.
Grade 8 Classroom Visits
Two weeks ago, we had the opportunity to visit several Grade 8 classrooms at A.V. Graham, Forest Glade, Ford City and Queen Victoria Public Schools. I truly enjoyed speaking with our students as we participated in an activity called “High School Hopes and Fears.”
Students were invited to anonymously share their hopes and fears about entering high school, and together we discussed each submission and addressed common concerns. Interestingly, many students expressed similar thoughts, which led to meaningful conversations about shared experiences. I hope this activity helped them feel more confident and more connected to peers who may be feeling the same way as they prepare for this transition.
I look forward to continuing these visits across our system.
Jack Miner and D.M. Eagle Properties for Sale
The former Jack Miner Public school and former D.M. Eagle Public School properties have been listed for sale on our website.
Offers for both properties will be accepted until 2:00 P.M. on November 28th. Visit publicboard.ca/forsale for more information.
Hack the Holidays with John McGivney Children's Centre
The third annual Hack the Holidays event took place at Belle River District High School on November 10th and 11th. This outstanding initiative has quickly become one of the most meaningful events of the year for the Greater Essex County District School Board.
Students from Belle River, Leamington, Massey and Kennedy came together to make toys switch accessible for children with disabilities that prevent them from using standard remote controls or buttons. Participating students shared that they were not only excited to learn a new skill but also grateful for the opportunity to do something kind for others during the holiday season. As always, it was a heartwarming experience that will bring joy to many children and their families.
At John McGivney’s Hack the Holidays event on December 3rd, families will be able to select a free toy, made switch accessible by GECDSB students. Families can register until November 28th, 2025, and the registration link has been shared on our website and social media.
Special Olympics Qualifier at W.F. Herman
Students from W.F. Herman Academy, Leamington District Secondary School, Westview Freedom Academy and St. Anne Catholic High School were thrilled to take part in the Special Olympics Ontario Soccer Qualifiers on Tuesday, November 3rd, hosted at W.F. Herman Academy. It was a crisp and sunny day, perfect for some friendly competition and spirited play. The winning team will move on to represent our region at the Special Olympics Ontario School Championships in London from May 26 to 28.
Congratulations to all participating athletes for their teamwork, sportsmanship, and enthusiasm on the field!
Serenity Esipu selected for Government of Canada’s HSSIDIP program
Serenity Esipu, a Grade 12 student at Vincent Massey Secondary School, is a successful candidate for the Government of Canada’s High School Students with Intellectual Disabilities Integration Project.
This exciting national training program is open to students aged 16 to 21 who have an intellectual disability or autism, are currently attending a Canadian high school, and are eligible to work in Canada. Through her hard work and dedication, Serenity has demonstrated her ability to thrive independently in a workplace setting.
We, along with Serenity’s teachers and support staff at Massey, are incredibly proud of her accomplishments and wish her continued success as she begins this exciting new chapter.
Windsor International Film Festival Screening
With support from the Windsor International Film Festival and the Solcz Family Foundation, more than 500 students representing 13 of our high schools took part in a special screening of the documentary Folktales at the Chrysler Theatre on October 29.
The event offered students the chance to extend their learning beyond the school setting by exploring themes related to mental health and overall well-being.
Ministry of Education Updates
The Ontario government is requiring school boards to establish Student and Family Support Offices.
School Boards not currently under supervision will be expected to submit a report by March 31, 2026, outlining how they will establish an office by September 1, 2026. Each office will be led by a supervisory officer.
Important Dates for Students and Families
- Secondary parent-teacher interviews will take place tomorrow evening, November 19th, 2025.
- The Fall OSSLT opportunity period ends on December 2nd, 2025.