NNDSB Archives - Muskoka411

Students Explore Military Careers With 33rd Battalion

News Room — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 01:36:17 +0000

Near North District School Board (NNDSB) students, their families and teachers explored military careers as they learned about a new paid co-operative (co-op) education program. The co-op open house was hosted by the Canadian Armed Forces and the Algonquin Regiment, held recently at the Martin Leo Troy Armoury in North Bay.

Students attended a presentation, participated in a question-and-answer session and toured the armoury to discover military trades. At trade-specific stations, students were introduced to roles such a vehicle technician, weapons tech, human resources and financial services.

Students who participate in the co-op will enrol as a Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) primary reserve non-commissioned member. Once they pass basic military qualification, further training includes military driver qualification, winter warfare/survival training, combat logistics and trade qualification training. Upon completion, participants can choose to continue serving and begin occupation specialty training over the summer.

The co-op will be full-time for the second semester of the 2025-2026 school year.

NNDSB’s Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) Recruiter Roy Desjardins, said, “This initiative provided an exceptional opportunity for students exploring careers in the military. The service personnel were professional, welcoming, and highly engaged, sharing valuable insights into their career paths. The event offered a meaningful learning experience for our students, and plans are already underway to build on this success in the years ahead.”

Sgt Jean Knight, Unit Recruiting NCO, 33 Service Battalion, said students “participated in the virtual range simulator, competed to see who could do the most pushups and sit-ups, put on military kit and see what is used in a field setting. The engagement of the students was off the charts!”

By participating in the co-op, students can earn academic credits while they obtain military training – discipline, leadership and technical skills. They will be paid, receive medical and dental coverage and have guaranteed summer employment.

Sgt. Knight said there was a lot of positivity, excitement, and motivation to learn more about the program. “With many applications coming through, we are excited to continue to build on this success and provide opportunities for more young adults to join the CAF reserves through the co-op program.”

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Sundridge Centennial Public School’s Trunk Or Treat Returns

News Room — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 21:48:32 +0000

By popular demand, Sundridge Centennial Public School’s (SCPS) Halloween Trunk or Treat event is returning this year.

SCPS will once again open its doors and its parking lot on Halloween night to provide and warm space for trick or treaters and a gathering place for residents of the town and the surrounding rural community.

SCPS Principal Jill Cooper said, “Many of our rural community members do not get to experience trick-or-treaters. They want to show support and enjoy seeing the young community members dressed up, excitedly enjoying the evening.” She added that, “Trunk or Treat provides an opportunity to connect all community members, making a safe and enjoyable evening for all.”

Rural community members are invited to fill the trunks of their cars with Halloween candy they would ordinarily not have the opportunity to give out and congregate in town at the more centrally-located school. Visitors can warm up, use the restroom, enjoy hot chocolate, and trick-or-treat all at one convenient location.

“The school should act as the critical part of the community. When identifying needs that best support our community and our students, we should act to create a reasonable solution,” Cooper said. “Last year, we identified the need for a warming station and washroom in this area of town to benefit those out for the evening.”

“Last year we had 10 businesses, and five families join us at the school to hand out treats to local kids. Children and their families happily came to the school to trick or treat and enjoy some hot chocolate along with a quick washroom break before heading back out into the cold and wet weather,” Cooper said. “This year, we are expecting to see 14 community providers, and even more of our rural community members return to enhance the experience.”

Cooper also said that if the weather gets too scary this year, the entire event can be moved into the school gym and hallways.

Community members who are interested in participating in the SCPS Trunk or Treat are asked to follow the school’s food allergy policies and not bring treats with any nuts/peanut butter in them.

Reach out to notify the school of your participation at 705-472-5101 ext. 8023 or jill.cooper@nearnorthschools.ca by Oct 28.

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Parry Sound High School Students Return To Class Monday

News Room — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 01:00:13 +0000

It was announced at last night’s (Sept. 9) meeting of the Near North District School Board (NNDSB) that the Town of Parry Sound has granted occupancy of Parry Sound High School to NNDSB.

Since then, the administration has been working with its partners to implement a plan for getting staff and students into classrooms.

NNDSB is pleased to share that the school will be ready to welcome students back to in- person learning on Monday, Sept. 15.

The transportation consortium has up-to-date busing information for all PSHS students on their BusPlanner Web Parent Portal. Details on how to access the portal can be found here. Please note that limited student parking is available in the student lot on Joseph Street.

Thank you for your patience as NNDSB worked through a number of challenges to ensure students can return safely to school. The administration and staff are very excited to welcome everyone back to the PSHS building on Monday.

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NNDSB Updates Contingency Plan, Moves PSHS To Remote Learning

News Room — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 19:27:24 +0000

After thoughtful consideration, Near North District School Board (NNDSB) has decided to move Parry Sound High School (PSHS) to remote learning. Though the list of unresolved items at PSHS is small, administration made the decision in order to give staff, students and families time to prepare for a remote start to the school year.

This move to remote learning affects secondary students (Grades 9-12) at PSHS only. Students in Grades JK-6 will attend school at McDougall Public School, and students in Grades 7-8 who would have attended the new JK-12 school will attend school at Nobel Public School.

NNDSB will post an updated contingency plan and revise the JK-12 Parry Sound school page on Aug. 27 to reflect this information.

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NNDSB Releases PS JK-12 School Contingency Plan

News Room — Sat, 16 Aug 2025 02:47:08 +0000

Near North District School Board (NNDSB) has prepared and published a comprehensive contingency plan as it continues to respond to the delay in the completion of the JK-12 school in Parry Sound. The plan for parents, caregivers and students is now posted.

The board acknowledges that this delay and the resulting confusion have affected students and their families. The plan ensures student safety and well-being and the continuation of learning, which are of paramount importance.

Since the news of the delay was confirmed, NNDSB staff have been working diligently behind the scenes to create a contingency plan that meets the needs of not only its students and staff, but also the board’s partner organizations. A contingency plan of this magnitude involves a variety of the board’s departments, as well as outside organizations, which have many roles in ensuring safe learning environments for students and staff.

Because of its nature, the contingency plan is fluid, and at times, changes may need to be made. Changes may be communicated via the board, the school, and/or the webpage.

The plan and FAQs can be found on the board’s website, on this page.

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Update On Parry Sound JK-12 School Construction

News Room — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 02:23:26 +0000

Near North District School Board (NNDSB) is providing an update regarding the construction of the new JK-12 school in Parry Sound.

It has now been confirmed that the new facility will not be completed in time for the first day of school in September 2025. While this is not the outcome we expected, NNDSB is implementing short-term solutions to ensure a smooth and safe start to the school year for all students.

JK-Grade 6 students who were set to attend McDougall Public School for September will attend that school location as originally planned. Students in Grades 9-12 will begin the school year at the current Parry Sound High School building. All Grades 7-8 students will attend the Nobel Public School site.

Once the new school building is complete, students and staff will transition to their new home.

Further updates for the public will be shared through the board’s website and social media channels. Families directly impacted by this delay will receive more detailed information via email.

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TOROS Tickets On Sale For Seussical The Musical

News Room — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 01:19:34 +0000

Near North District School Board’s (NNDSB) Theatre Outreach On Stage (TOROS) is proud to announce that tickets are now on sale for its annual summer musical production Seussical.

Grab your seat so you can experience a cast of 65 community students who are bringing this whimsical and vibrant musical to life on stage this summer. The production will take you on a journey through Whoville, reintroducing you to the familiar characters and stories from the world of Dr. Seuss. You will leave wondering about the All the Thinks You Can Think, smiling from ear to ear and humming that Anything’s Possible. You won’t want to miss this incredibly talented cast in this Amazing performance.

Seussical the Musical is the culmination of an NNDSB summer school program where students earn high school credits while learning about all aspects of theatre production.

Shows run at 7 p.m. on August 6, 7, 8, and 9. Tickets are $25 general admission and are available for purchase online on the NNDSB website.

Tickets can also be purchased in person at Creative Learning Toys, located at 181 Main St. West, North Bay. A limited quantity will be available at the door.

For more information regarding the show and ticket details, contact michelina.beam@nearnorthschools.ca

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Near North Math Team Members Honoured

News Room — Sat, 21 Jun 2025 01:52:09 +0000

Two educators from the Near North District School Board have been recognized for their outstanding contributions to math education. Gail Dégagné and Laurie Clayton won the Ontario Mathematics Coordinators Association (OMCA) Award for Excellence and Innovation in Mathematics Education.

Collectively, Dégagné and Clayton have contributed immensely to the development of central key resources, which play an instrumental role in unifying how teachers approach mathematics planning and teaching across the board.

NNDSB Assistant Superintendent Kim Pauli says she is very proud of Dégagné and Clayton for their outstanding contributions to math education across the province.

“The resources, professional learning opportunities, and experiences they have provided both in and out of the classroom have had a huge impact on student achievement and mindset in mathematics,” says Pauli.

Pauli goes on to say that in her role as special education math lead, “Gail has been a huge advocate for students with barriers to learning math. She has supported educators to find ways all students can learn grade-level material in a way that is accessible and meaningful.”

Dégagné says the math team has re-examined special education processes, particularly as they relate to mathematics.

“This collaborative effort led to the development of a more robust, tiered mathematics strategy designed to better meet student needs, boost engagement, and ultimately foster student success,” says Dégagné. She adds that staff worked to understand learners, ensuring that every intervention and support was both relevant and responsive.

Learning strategies included small group interventions both inside and outside the classroom, grounded in sound pedagogy and effective resources.

“Receiving this award is not just a personal honour, it’s a celebration of the collective effort, passion, and commitment of everyone who joined in this mission to create positive change for our students,” says Dégagné. She adds this recognition is the perfect way to close this chapter as she heads into retirement next year.

Pauli says that Clayton, in her role as central math facilitator, “has been instrumental in developing tools and assessments to ensure students are on track with their learning outcomes. Working alongside teacher colleagues, Laurie has shared ‘best practices’ and high impact teaching strategies to support a more responsive and deliberate approach to math instruction.”

Clayton says in working with the NNDSB math team for two years, she knows educators are “committed to meeting the diverse learning needs of their students, and they’re looking for practical, sustainable strategies to do so.”

The team has implemented strategies to support educators. The addition of resources like Knowledgehook and MathUp has “created a common language for instruction, enabled focused professional development, and encouraged collegial dialogue,” she says.

Clayton notes that she’s witnessed a noticeable increase in student engagement, a reduction in behavioural challenges during math lessons and improved student achievement. Equally important, teachers are feeling more confident in their ability to use the tools and strategies to move each learner forward.

“This work matters because every student deserves to feel successful in math,” says Clayton.

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Sunset Park’s Mighty Gardeners Project Grows Well-Being Through Community, Creativity, And Care

News Room — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 17:17:30 +0000

At Sunset Park Public School, a small classroom initiative has grown into a vibrant, school-wide movement that connects student well-being, environmental stewardship, and community partnership in powerful, lasting ways. This inspiring transformation is embodied in the school’s Mighty Gardeners project, which highlights how creativity and community can nurture both young minds and the environment.

Last year, educators Jessica Blais and Deanna Riching launched a classroom project focused on community partnerships. During this project, Warren Lindsay from C.G.B. North Bay visited and offered a tree donation. In a light-hearted moment, Blais and Riching jokingly suggested a full garden makeover, and to everyone’s surprise, the idea blossomed. That spontaneous moment sparked what would become a school-wide transformation.

The vision expanded further in the fall as Sunset Park engaged in the work of The Third Path, a student well-being framework developed by Dr. David Tranter. Tranter’s eight conditions of well-being, safety, regulation, belonging, positivity, engagement, identity, mastery, and meaning became the foundation for a new school-wide initiative. Blais and Riching created The Mighty Gardeners to bring those eight conditions to life. In this program, each condition is transformed into a “superpower,” embodied by a unique superhero character. These playful, empowering characters help students connect deeply with important concepts like safety, belonging, regulation, and more.

To make these ideas accessible to children of all ages, Blais and Riching use creative storytelling and visual imagery. Each condition has been translated into simple, relatable language and brought to life in ways that engage and inspire students. This imaginative approach has created a common language of well-being throughout the school, sparking joy, excitement, and a strong sense of connection among students and staff alike.

At the heart of the project is the school-wide Peace Snake, a vibrant pathway of student-painted rocks winding through two large garden spaces. Students from Kindergarten through Grade 6 were placed in one of eight cross-grade “superpower” teams. Together, they have painted their rocks in colours representing their team’s well-being theme, cleared and prepared the garden beds, and helped plant all of the new plants and flowers.

The flowers and plants all came from Laporte’s Nursery, Sunset Park’s official nursery partner. Their support and generous donations, which included several beautiful flower baskets, have brought colour, beauty, and life to every corner of the garden.

The project’s success would not have been possible without the dedication and support of community members. Shawn Blais, owner and operator of Blais & Sons Electric, has spent countless hours helping construct the Peace Snake and assisting with planting throughout the garden. His hands-on commitment and generous support have been vital to bringing this vision to life.

The Mighty Gardeners initiative has also been entered into the national Communities in Bloom competition and will serve as an official site for the City of North Bay’s Centennial celebrations.

This initiative is already opening doors to rich cross-curricular learning in science, literacy, art, environmental studies, and social-emotional development. As a living classroom, the garden will provide meaningful, hands-on experiences that foster connection, responsibility, and creativity in students for years to come.

An official opening ceremony will take place on Monday, June 23 at 3:30 p.m. at Sunset Park Public School. The school looks forward to welcoming Mayor Peter Chirico, community partners who made the project possible, and all members of the public who would like to come celebrate and explore this inspiring new space.

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NNDSB Accepts The Resignations Of Trustees Fuscaldo And Phillips

News Room — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 01:19:45 +0000

At the regular meeting of Near North District School Board last night, Zone 3 Trustee Jeanie Fuscaldo announced her resignation, effective June 11.

At May’s meeting of the Board of Trustees, Zone 1 Trustee Chantal Phillips announced her resignation, effective at the end of June.

Chair St. Pierre thanked Trustees Fuscaldo and Phillips for their contributions to public education.

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