| Seedling Stories | Hands in the Garden | This food and garden program allows students to get their hands dirty while gardening, growing food, and learning about the natural environment and sustainability. Students learn and explore plant life cycles, biodiversity, composting, garden creatures, measuring and mapping garden beds, people involved in the food system, harvesting and creating simple snacks, and writing poems and creating skits about the garden. Through this hands-on program, students apply concepts they have learned in class in practical and direct ways. With a variety of workshops to choose from, some may be delivered virtually, this program is suitable for early years and elementary students and is offered in both French and English. Many of the workshops offered by this program do not require schools to have a garden and are available throughout the school year. Serving: Kindergarten, Grades 1-8 |
| John Howard Society of Toronto | H.I.P.P (Helping Individuals Plan Positively) & CYP (Crossroads Youth Program) | HIPP is a youth centered program for those aged 16 years and older whom are at risk of becoming engaged in pro-criminal behaviours. This program focuses on helping these young people build the skills to meet educational, employment and personal goals. HIPP strives to find proactive solutions to solve the problems of neighbourhood youth violence. A variety of workshops and opportunities are provided on topics including, but not limited to: personal development and goal setting; employment skills; interpersonal communications skills; anger management; problem-solving; masculinity, respect and violence; conflict mediation skills; self-awareness training; mental health/wellness; cultural competency; legal information and housing assistance. Serving: Grades 10 - 12, referred students in LC2 |
| Just Aissi | Gumboots Workshops | Introduce students to a unique and engaging dance where the body becomes a musical instrument through the use of rubber boots. The gumboots dance originated in South Africa and was developed by miners using rhythm and dance in concert with percussive stomping to communicate and express ideas as well as themselves. Students learn the history and cultural development of the style, learn basic steps and choreography, and have the opportunity to collaborate in the creation of a routine. Workshops are offered in both French and English. Serving: Kindergarten - Grade 12 |
| Humber College Institute | Guelph-Humber Justice Studies Field Placements | This program provides field placement opportunities for students in Justice Studies post-secondary programs. Field placements within TDSB sites provide post-secondary students who are considering a career in their specialized area, an opportunity to gain direct experience in understanding the learning strategies working with youth in schools. Field placement students collaborate with TDSB staff to enhance their understanding of curriculum; to plan and implement activities for students; and to foster positive relationships with students, staff and parents. These placements satisfy post-secondary course requirements for field placement experience. |
| University of Guelph | Guelph-Humber Justice Studies Field Placements | This program provides field placement opportunities for students in Justice Studies post-secondary programs. Field placements within TDSB sites provide post-secondary students who are considering a career in their specialized area, an opportunity to gain direct experience in understanding the learning strategies working with youth in schools. Field placement students collaborate with TDSB staff to enhance their understanding of curriculum; to plan and implement activities for students; and to foster positive relationships with students, staff and parents. These placements satisfy post-secondary course requirements for field placement experience. |
| Jane/Finch Community and Family Centre | Green Change | This free program enhances ecological literacy through a park design project for elementary schools, in-person or virtually. Students learn design components of a public space as well as equitable, ecological and sustainable models to address community need. Students identify problems in their local park using a design-thinking process and facilitators guide students to take concrete steps to address the issues and work to a solution. Program entails exploring and documenting the space (photography and sketching), creating surveys for class participation, sketching a prototype of their impact project, and presentation of the impact project to the school community. To help schools build capacity following project completion, facilitators support teachers to expand or modify the program in the second year and have regular check-ins. Serving: Grades 3 - 6 |
| Tata Consultancy Services Canada Inc. | goIT virtual | goIT is an innovative, experiential and immersive program for students and staff to learn about TDSB’s Global Competencies and Tata’s Five Forces. Elementary and secondary teachers will create curricular based Global Competency learning experiences and collaborate with TCS employees to bring real world digital knowledge, expertise and practical 'real-work' experience into TDSB classrooms to help teachers and students make globally competency connections. Various initiatives, reflective of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, have participants investigate the world, recognize perspectives, communicate ideas and take action. Sessions are led by TCS Associates as Mentors, including student alumni of goIT who have graduated or are those in secondary grades coaching junior grades in their activities. Serving: Kindergarten, Grades 1-12, Staff |
| Hockey Diversity Alliance | GOHL: Grassroots Original Hockey League | The GOHL program removes barriers and creates opportunities for students in underserved communities to get involved in hockey and sport by providing access, professional coaches and ice-time. This program is for those students that might not have the opportunity to play hockey. Students will be gradually introduced to skating and hockey skills through HDA on-ice curriculum and on and off the ice workshops. Students gain confidence from trying and succeeding in the sport and also improve mental, physical health and wellness and work as a team-building skills. The program runs 15 weeks in each Year of the Term, with 1 hour sessions held once a week and is open to 30 students. Suitable: Grades 2-4 |
| Environics Analytics Group Ltd. | Geodemographic Data Workshop | In this workshop, secondary students learn practical applications in the field of geography through exposure to real-world case studies that mirror client projects. Students are presented with one of three possible cases where they will examine, identify and analyze the business problem using the maps and geodemographic data reports provided. Through a collaborative team effort, students work together to devise a solution that exercises their data literacy, geographic interpretation and presentation skills. At the end of the workshop, students present their proposed solution and have a client-ready presentation deck. |
| Plan International Canada Inc. | Gender Equality Workshops | Students develop their understanding of barriers young people around the world, especially girls, face in accessing their rights, and learn about programs and initiatives that break down these barriers. Issues are examined in non-binary, inclusive frameworks. Gender inequality unfortunately remains prevalent around the world- despite the many strides that have been made. The Speakers Bureau is a network of young people from around Canada who attend monthly workshops, to develop public speaking skills and gain a deeper understanding of how gender equality intersects with global issues. Serving: Grades 4-12 |
| David Powell | Gamelan Music | These hands-on workshops for select schools introduce students and teachers to rich percussion music traditions of Java, Indonesia. The word gamelan comes from the Javanese word ‘gamel’ which means hammer. Workshops bring together the intricate, interlocking parts played by the underlying gong patterns, the melodic matallophones, the decorating instruments, and driving/leading drums. David Powell guides teachers on pedagogy and teaching strategies to successfully incorporate these instruments in the musical learning.
These workshops are an enhancement to TDSB Community Music Program for those schools that wish to further enhance their learning beyond the three classroom visits.
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| CAMH | Game Changers for Mental Health | Research-based, youth co-developed presentations on mental health and self-care delivered by youth to help students learn about mental health and how they can look after themselves. Youth ambassadors with lived experience with mental health challenges share their personal mental health stories and provide tips on maintaining mental wellness and how to reach out for support when needed. Schools may also request CAMH staff to present around specific topics such as depression, addiction, drugs and alcohol and mental health 101. Additional resources are shared to provide strategies and tools to increase well-being in students.TDSB PSS staff are informed of presentations and can provide support as necessary. Suitable: Gr. 7-12 |
| Future Design School Inc. | Future Design Professional Learning | The program offers professional learning opportunities to TDSB educators and staff (teachers, administrators, board level staff, coaches, social workers, psychologists, etc.) providing them with mindset, tools and techniques for developing students' future ready skills and competencies. The program uses a blended learning model of both online and in ¬person delivery, or fully online through video conferencing. Sessions include: Introduction to Design Thinking; Hack your Curriculum; Assessment for Innovation; Planning Interdisciplinary Projects; Designing Inquiry and Assessment for Remote, Blended and Hybrid Learning. Programming can be customized to meet local and contextually specific needs. Suitable: Staff |
| GreenBMG Inc. | Fundamentals of Solar Energy | Delivered by a multidisciplinary team of engineers and scientists, this hands-on workshop explores solar technologies including solar thermal and solar photovoltaic (PV) basics. The discussion starts with how energy is created and then moves to renewable energy sources. Workshop provides information on the science of solar energy, complex methods of solar energy, different energy conversions, tools to measure output and the future of solar technology. Students actively observe and participate in small group experiments. The session culminates with a hands-on demonstration of an off-grid PV set-up. Fundamental concepts such as integrated science, environment, fight against climate change will be covered during the sessions. Speakers also provide information on green careers and industry knowledge. Suitable: Grades 4-12
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| Tim Francom | Fundamentals in Percussion | Professional percussionist provides mentorship, music industry knowledge and specialized percussion skills to students. Musician shares knowledge of percussion instruments, notation and performance practises aiding in skill development, proper technique, sound production and music literacy. Sessions can be offered as workshops, clinics and/or coaching for large and small group ensembles ie. band/orchestra percussion section and percussion ensembles.
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| Silvija Vukadinovic | From Yoga Mat to Peaceful Classroom | From Yoga Mat to Peaceful Classroom introduces yoga, breathing and mindfulness techniques. The program can be adapted for students, staff, parents, at multiple levels and all age groups. It can be delivered online, in a space that accommodates mats, as well as in a traditional classroom with students standing or sitting at their desks. Through mindful movement, relaxation exercises and meditation, participants develop social-emotional and life skills that enhance their health and well-being. Suitable: Kindergarten, Grades 1-12; Staff; Parens/Caregivers |
| Extend-A-Family | Friendship Circles | Friendship Circles build relationships between students with disabilities, who are in a regular class placement and their classmates through engaging activities that encourage social connections. Available in elementary and secondary schools. Groups of children are intentionally brought together to get to know each other and to build a welcoming and inclusive school community for all students. Circles provide an opportunity for the person with a disability to participate in conversations, games, parties and social encounters. Circles are led by an Extend-A-Family Coordinator who facilitates group sessions and encourages groups to plan time and activities together, and to explore the concept of friendship both within and outside of school. |
| Community Builders | Friends and Allies Youth Leadership | Sparking courage, building skills and fostering caring, Community Builders develops youth leadership through symposia and workshops on social inclusion, conflict resolution, and peer support listening with select elementary schools. Participants learn concepts of community circle, anti-oppression, ally-ship and conflict resolution, to promote a positive school environment and create a community response to anti-bullying and exclusion. They explore issues including racism, sexism and other oppressions. Following the symposia, leadership teams are supported as they prepare to deliver programs ranging from Friends and Allies Assemblies to action-research initiatives. Professional learning sessions, cross-generational dialogues and parent workshops are also provided. Serving: Grades 5 - 8; staff; parents/caregivers
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| Michel Nadeau | French Story Teller and Theatre Workshops /Ateliers de conte et de théâtre en français | In these workshops, students will engage with French activities and theatre as a means of practising and boosting confidence in French speaking and listening skills. While classes of Kindergarten and Grade 1 students are invited to listen to storytelling by facilitator, Michel Nadeau, classes of students in grades 2-6 can participate in a French theatre workshop that includes speaking aloud in French, repetition of alliteration to strengthen articulation, practising tone with French, emoting as they speak/sing in French, and games like mirroring a peer, sharing in the telling of a story, and more. Students can also listen to the facilitator share French stories. Suitable: K-6.
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| Francis Atta | Francis Inspires | In this motivational presentation, Ghanaian-born Francis Atta shares his lived experience of overcoming significant barriers and flipping his life around. Once homeless, failing in school and in trouble with the law, he went on to post-secondary studies and graduated with honours. Presentation also emphasizes the importance of education, power of sport and finding motivation to do more. Students gain skills to help them overcome challenges in life and strive for success. Serving: Grades 7-12 |
| Forests Ontario Forets de L'Ontario | Forestry in the Classroom | Presentations connect students with their environment and potential futures in forestry. Student enquiry is at the focus of the presentations that cover the following themes: tree identification and urban forests, tree biology, invasive species, forest management and forest careers. Facilitators bring the outdoors into the classroom through powerpoint presentations, samples and images to illustrate important concepts. Natural resource professionals lead career presentations to share education and diverse career pathways from seek forecasting and management to research on the long-term effects of climate change. Suitable: Grades 4-12
Presentation may be offered in French. |
| FOOT IQ Programme Educatif & Activities Sportives | Football en français | Through soccer as a learning tool, students practise French language skills. This workshop series provides an opportunity for students to not only gain confidence in speaking French but also enhance decision-making, team building, keeping a healthy, active lifestyle. French-speaking coaches share learning strategies on and off the field. Suitable: Grades 6-12; French Immersion; FLS
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| Elisabeth Pearson | Food, Nutrition and Mental Health | Students, staff or parent participants learn how to choose foods that optimize brain and gut health, which promotes better mental health, including a significantly lower risk of anxiety and depression. Participants learn how the extensive use of social media promotes poor body image, which leads to poor mental health and an unhealthy relationship with food. Participants learn how the widespread availability and advertising of ultra-processed foods impacts food choice and well-being. Serving: Grades 1 - 12 |
| Fithop Fitness & Entertainment | FIT HOP | Students' Physical Literacy is enhanced with these workshops that fuse music, spoken word poetry and movement to provide an interactive dance-based fitness program. Students are engaged in individual and group exercises that teach kinesthetic awareness (personal space), mindfulness through breathing and proper postural alignment in exercise. Program uses rhythm and rhyme, song and spoken word poetry to aid students in remembering the dance sequence. At the end of the workshop, students will have an opportunity to showcase their learning in a dance circle. Professional learning workshops are available. FIT HOP is an acronym for functional integrative training and health optimization program. |
| Envision Sports & Entertainment Inc. | Finding Tenths with Paralympic Medalist Marissa Papaconstantinou | This motivational assembly with Paralympic Medalist, Canadian record holder, and TDSB alumni, Marissa Papaconstantinou, highlights uncovering key habits, mindsets, and skills that push you to find and improve yourself. Marissa breaks down each phase of a sprint as it relates to key moments that have allowed her to succeed on the world stage and to help her find her 'tenth'. Themes include resiliency, embracing obstacles, finding confidence from within. The assembly ends with a question and answer period where the audience can engage with Marissa. A follow-up session, a couple months later, allows students to check-in with Marissa and share their progress since her presentation.
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| Brent Nicholls and Sarah Nicholls | Find Your Magic | With a focus on kindness and building inclusive school communities, this presentation goes beyond the message of bullying prevention and empowers students to believe in themselves no matter what they may be facing. Throughout the presentation Brent and Sarah share personal stories about being bullied and outline the steps they took to overcome it and gain self confidence. Their four "Secrets of Magic" are shared: Anything is Possible, Believe in Yourself, You're Not Alone and Find Your Magic. The magic used to illustrate these points is extremely engaging for the students. Audiences can’t help but feel a connection with the message and students are left feeling empowered when they realize the positive impact they can have on others. Suitable: Kindergarten; Grades 1-12 |
| Junior Achievement of Central Ontario | Financial Literacy, Work Readiness and Entrepreneurship Programs | Programming inspires youth to make informed, educated and knowledgeable, financial decisions; to be innovative in generating business ideas and starting their own companies; and, to discover career possibilities and pathways. Led by JACO trained volunteers from the business community, workshops include More than Money; Be Entrepreneurial Junior ; Dollars with Sense; Economics for Success, Personal Finance and several others. Serving: Grades 3 - 12 |
| Checks Over Strikes Inc. | Financial Literacy Matters | This financial literacy workshop breaks down the barriers to financial well-being especially for Black, Indigenous and racialized youth in under-resourced communities. Delivered by Black facilitators with first-hand impact of systemic and institutional barriers, Dean Chambers and Craig Brown. They share their lived experiences on how to break the cycle of poverty and begin the cycle of wealth building. Workshops touch on financial literacy applied in the real world, financial management, credit and budgeting, and how to become a young entrepreneur. Sessions involve case studies, role playing scenarios, discussions and workbooks to supplement the learning that get students excited about math in their everyday lives. Suitable: Grades 9-12 |
| Never Too Short Productions | Film In A Day | Full day hands-on workshop offers the opportunity for students to explore all aspects of filmmaking including script writing, exploration of equipment and techniques required to create a film. This comprehensive workshop emphasizes four key components to consider when making a film: storytelling, writing, presentation and use of equipment. The facilitator also discusses the editing process, and software that accompanies it. The goal of the workshop is not only for students to create a short film, but also to provide them with a solid understanding of the film industry's practices, standards and careers. Suitable: Grades 5-12 |
| Peach Berserk | Fabric Design and Silkscreen | This hands-on arts workshop introduces students to fabric design and screen printing by up-cycling students’ own clothes. Facilitators teach ways to design a print, fabric design process and the basics of photo emulsion screen printing as well as information on the design and fashion industry. Students create their own designs on paper, transfer their design onto a piece of pre-owned garment to create a small silkscreen product at the end of the workshop. Facilitator assists schools to setup a simple screen print studio for students to continue the learning. These highly engaging and interactive sessions are creatively available through video-conferencing as well as in-person. Serving: Grades 1-12 |
| Shelley Kavanagh | Expressive Arts | Art therapy sessions help students explore and name emotions to find acceptance thereby enhancing one’s sense of well-being. Participants learn strategies to better regulate their emotions, manage conflict internally and be able to share their experiences with others. Students receive carefully designed art prompts that can transform challenges and nurture in moving collectively into a world that is inextricably interconnected and regenerative. At the same time, facilitator helps to provide opportunities for participants to build skills that develop interpersonal effectiveness and tolerate distress through processes of containment, integration, self-soothing, building mastery and hope. These guided small group sessions especially help aid those that have experienced trauma or stress and provides a creative outline to express their emotions. Participants learn strategies to better regulate their emotions, manage conflict internally and be able to share their experiences with others. Suitable: Referred by PSS Gr. 9-12 |
| Alyssian Entertainment Corporation | Exploring Métis Culture | Si l'heur chi la chwiiziin Michif! It's time for a Michif kitchen party! Piihtikway - Come in! Niimiyitoohk - Let's dance together with Alyssa Katrine. Explore Métis culture in both French and English, with some basic Western Michif. Weaving storytelling, songs, live fiddle, dance and more. Students are connected to Métis identity, culture and history through interactive activities. Topics range from fur trade and voyageur history, songs and artefacts (sash, beadwork, cuisine); Red River rebellion and Louis Riel history; history of Métis in Ontario, host a Métis kitchen party: live music, Red River jigging, spoons and clogging; learn Voyageur Songs in English and French. Choice of performance or workshops. Serving: Kindergarten - Grade 12 |
| Making Art Making Change | Exploring Memory, Identity and Place | MAMC delivers culturally-relevant arts-based workshops dedicated to exploring each students’ authentic voice using mixed media as a means of creative exploration and communication. Through the exploration of the themes of Memory, Identity, and Place, MAMC Artists collaborate with teachers to identify a specific focus for the projects and deliver a workshop series of 4 sessions that develop these ideas. Experimentation with different materials and art media is integral to the creative process. Students are stimulated to explore their own vision and imagination to create and present artwork that may be combined into a collaborative installation. Serving: Kindergarten, Grades 1-12, Staff |
| Explorum Inc. | EXPLORation Workshops/Ateliers d'EXPLORation | Delivered by French-speaking facilitators, these sessions stimulate student’s interest in the sciences with educational experiments as well as enrich their French vocabulary. With a variety of STEAM workshops that range from the study of chromatography, tinkering with electrical circuits, take on building challenges, craft an articulated hand or exploring optical illusions, students engage with both natural and scientific phenomenon using critical thinking and inquiry-based learning objectives. Workshops are also available in English. Suitable: Grades 1-7 |
| Jessica Tudos | Every Student Thrives | A motivational and interactive presentation from Canadian Olympic gymnast, Jessica Tudos, who inspires students to appreciate the possibilities they have to lead healthy, creative and active lives. By sharing personal stories, life lessons, memorabilia, as well as answering probing questions, Jessica empowers students to tackle life’s challenges and opportunities with more understanding, resilience, and confidence. Modeling a life approach that embraces accepting who you are, staying the course despite the pressure to conform, and prioritizing your health and wellness, are at the heart of Jessica’s message to students. Suitable: Grades K-4
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| Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center | Equity & Diversity Workshops and Tour for Humanity | Canada, often described as a diverse cultural mosaic, is not free from hatred and intolerance. Through these sessions, racism, antisemitism, and prejudice are examined, as well as how these issues impact students and school communities. A variety of workshops are available for Grades 4 – 12, including: lessons & legacy of the Holocaust; roots of hate & intolerance; world heroes; genocide and the power of action; understanding digital citizenship and digital hate; media literacy, propaganda and WWII; and, student leadership development to promote respect and affect real, inclusive change through exploring their own diversity story. Serving: Grades 4 - 12 |
| Environfocus Inc. | EnvironFocus Knowledge Transfer | Industry professionals speak to students in Grades 4-12 on ways to successfully implement sustainability projects in their local community while meeting United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. With extensive business experience in Nigeria and North America, staff provides insight into sustainable actions and development; designing, developing and/or implementing sustainability projects; and meeting United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These sessions enhance the learning for those students who are currently working on a sustainability action project or are looking to hear from professionals in the industry. Sessions may also touch on careers in green/environment industries, advice on how to succeed in the field and women in science. Suitable: Grades 4-12
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| Engineers of Tomorrow | Engineer-in-Residence (EIR) | A real life engineer is matched with a classroom for the whole school year. The goal of the program is to bring the engineering experience into the classroom. Engineer facilitators share personal stories and experiences, facilitate hands-on STEM activities, share information about engineering professions and pathways to get there. Engineers and teachers work to customize and map the program which enhances, math, science and experiential learning activities/curriculum. Suitable: Kindergarten; grades 1-12
Requests for engineers to support SHSM and SPE training may be available. |
| Canadian Parents for French - Ontario | Engaging Parents & Supporting FSL | Programming supports are provided to students, parents, families and educators to enhance French as a second language (FSL) learning. Informative workshops, socio-cultural performances and events are available as scheduled. Programming is offered in French and English, with Bilingual facilitators. Serving: all grades, FSL/French Immersion |
| Ontario Schools Cricket Association | Energize, Excite, Empower: Play Cricket Pathway | These cricket sessions engage students in a modified version of the game for grades 3-12. Each student receives an opportunity to bat, bowl and field. Through modified rules, students enhance movement skills, hand-eye co-ordination and team play while participating in drills, activities and games. Professional learning sessions are available for staff. Facilitators have certification in community level cricket coaching. Suitable: Grades 3-12; staff |
| Sam Demma Enterprises Inc. | Empty Your Backpack | Motivational keynote assembly to increase student well-being, hope and kindness and equip students with tools to being the process of defining who they are and want to become. Everyone has a giant invisible backpack strapped to their shoulders. In these backpacks, students carry the thoughts and opinions that other people place on them that may negatively impact them. Message encourages students to openly talk about their feelings and emotions and equips them with wellness tools. Suitable: Grades 9-12 |
| Wen-Do Women's Self-Defence Corporation | Empowerment and Self-Defence | Workshop focuses on safety and empowerment, preparing students to defend themselves both mentally and physically, and giving them the confidence to deal with the range of types of aggression they are most likely to encounter in real life for girls or those who identify as girls. Through a feminist, anti-oppression lens, workshops cover the fundamentals of women's self-defence verbally and with the body, importance of using our voice, the element of surprise and awareness and avoidance. Some techniques may be alternated for those with physical limitations or disabilities. In addition, discussions occur about healthy relationships, healthy body image and strategies for safety. Suitable:Gr. 5-12 |
| Learning for a Sustainable Future | Empowering Our Children to Change the World | Sessions explore all types of sustainability issues and what young people can do about them to make real, positive change and make our world a greener, happier and healthier place! These special sessions are designed to 'jump-start' classroom "environmental action projects". Topics for these sessions include: Getting started with your climate change project. Electricity Conservation & YOU: Performing an energy audit; No Idling at School: Organizing a campaign to reduce emissions; Food for Thought: Growing local food to reduce food miles; Action Projects: How to get started with your climate change project. Serving: Grades 3-12 |
| Jakes House for Autistic Children | Employment Skills Readiness Program | At select school sites, this special education experiential learning program provides tools, job readiness skills and supports in achieving employment goals for referred students with intellectual/learning disabilities who require extra support as they transition from school to work. In-school weekly employment preparation workshops are provided on a variety of topics: work readiness plan, customer service, resume preparation, and tailored to individuals and their career goals. Referred students increase transferable and core work skills while better understanding their own goals and overcoming challenges as they move closer to being job ready and employment success. Customizable for students and their needs. Suitable: Grades 11-12; 18+
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| Project Work | Employment Readiness Support | At select school sites, this special education experiential learning program provides tools, job readiness skills and supports in achieving employment goals for referred students with intellectual/learning disabilities who require extra support as they transition from school to work. In-school weekly employment preparation workshops and job search meetings are provided. And, on the job site coaching support is given to assist referred students in the job-related tasks and duties of the placement. The goal of this specialized programming is for referred students to obtain and retain employment. Referred students increase transferable and core work skills while better understanding their own goals and overcoming challenges as they move closer to being job ready and employment success. |
| Toronto Public Library | Elementary Science Sessions | Workshops for elementary students by TPL staff explore STEM concepts through basic science experiments using common household ingredients or materials, or building challenges. Students receive an overview of library programs and services and are shown where they can access books and materials from the library focusing on science and technology. Sessions include: Basic Circuitry; Basic Block Coding; a 'Tower Building Challenge'; a 'Robot Petting Zoo'. |
| Harmony Movement | Educator's Equity Workshop | Professional learning workshops deepen understanding of equity and anti-racism principles and incorporate equitable and anti-racist approaches to enhance positive learning experiences of students. Participants build skills and application of culturally responsive relevant pedagogy and universal design for learning principles in teaching. Topics include: Understanding intersectionality, lived experience and challenging biases, having courageous conversations and responding to inequities using school-based scenarios, reviewing curriculum, lesson plans and assessments to better integrate student voice, reflecting on shifts, and growing your classroom anti-racism and equity practice. Sessions support School Improvement Planning. Suitable: Staff |
| Mohawk College | Education Assistant / Educational Support Field Placements | Field placements within TDSB sites provide post-secondary students in Educational Assistant / Educational Support programs who are considering a career in their specialized area, an opportunity to gain direct experience in understanding the learning strategies employed in classrooms when working with students with diverse learning needs; to develop practical knowledge and skills; to work with and support students with special education needs in their learning environments; to provide (supervised) support to students with diverse and special education needs in school settings. Field placement students collaborate with TDSB staff to enhance their understanding of curriculum; to plan and implement activities for students; and to foster positive relationships with students, staff and parents. These placements satisfy post-secondary course requirements for field placement experience. |
| Human Rights Legal Support Centre | Educating Youth About Workplace Sexual Harassment | Presentations educate students in Grades 9-12 about workplace sexual harassment; assertiveness strategies that they can use in response to sexual violence at work; and, their legal rights as employees in workplaces. Through role playing and activities, students learn consent law, power dynamics, establishing boundaries, effective tips & strategies. Topics include: A Matter of Consent: Understanding Consent and the Law (including in a digital world); Standing Up to Sexual Harassment: Strategies and Rights. |
| Orfe | Eco-Art Program | Workshops and mural projects deliver eco-art education through the learning of experiential, experimental, and hands-on techniques. Students learn the process of recycling materials to be repurposed and used to complete theme-based art projects. Tasked to create both 2D and 3D works of art, students will further enhance their problem-solving, experimenting, perseverance, and critical thinking skills, and also learn and improve their understanding of concepts like social and environmental responsibility, sustainability, as well as environmental awareness through their engagement in a creative approach to social change. Creating eco-friendly projects in the classroom by using recycled materials. Suitable: All students |
| The Earth Rangers Foundation | Earth Rangers Assembly | The Earth Rangers Assembly offers an engaging and interactive presentation bringing concepts of science and biodiversity from the real world into the classroom, in person and via video-conferencing. Using live Animal Ambassadors including reptiles, mammals and birds to connect with students, students develop empathy for wildlife and are encouraged to support the protection of animals and their habitats. Threatened Canadian species, the importance of protecting the environment and adopting more sustainable behaviours are highlighted. Earth Rangers provides information on how to make a difference through tangible activities and conservation projects for students to complete at home at www.earthrangers.org/bring-back-the-wild-curriculum-resources. Serving: Kindergarten, Grades 1-8
Notes with partner: the staff PD is an online course which is considered a learning resource. Central depts have reviewed and found to be beneficial but local school decision. If they are actually doing PD in classroom then we'll need to revise description. |
| Higher Love | E.Y.E. (Elevating Youth Everywhere) Yoga | In this 8 week program, Black female yoga instructor, Vonnette Forde, offers a practical program for students to learn mindfulness tools to help reduce anxiety and stress. Sessions may be offered in-person or virtually. Using meditation, yoga postures and movement, soft music, vision boarding and gratitude journaling, students develop skills that improve their physical and mental health. Sessions highlight the interconnection between the mind and the body, so students can build on their body awareness and positive mindset. Suitable: Grades 6-12; Staff; Parents/Caregivers |
| Y.S.Israel | E.G.O. Spoken Word | A spoken word workshop series exploring elements of written and performance poetry as a creative practice. Participants will learn different writing techniques for self-reflection; the art of storytelling; and performance-based poetry as tools for building self-confidence, self-efficacy, and interpersonal skills. This workshop series is perfect for educators looking to enhance their English / literature curriculum, as well as increase overall student engagement. For students in grades 6 - 8, emphasis will be placed on building self-identity and self-confidence through spoken word. While grades 9-12 will focus more on self-advocacy and social justice. Suitable: Grades 6-12 |
| Stefano Mancuso | Drumming Workshops | Professional ethnomusicologist provides enhanced world percussion workshops focusing on rhythm, song and movement from various countries. These workshops not only provides drumming technique, rhythms and repertoire but an appreciation in music in general. Students have a hands-on opportunity to explore self-expression and creativity through composition and performances. Students experience singing, drumming, and movement, as well as discover an array of languages (Portuguese, Spanish, Ga, and Malinke to name a few). In addition, geography and history will be discussed as it relates to the music explored. Serving: Grades 9-12
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| Hockey Hall Of Fame | Diversity in Hockey Program | Virtual presentations spotlight the stories of athletes, the history of sport and the present-day headlines for students to examine, understand and champion diversity. Presentation pays homage to athletes who confronted discrimination but through their perseverance and courage, ultimately enriched the landscape of hockey and championed inclusivity. Presentation highlights pioneers who paved the way for hockey players of different ethnicity (including Black, Indigenous, Asian), gender, sexual orientation and physical abilities. Session is augmented through photographs, videos, artifacts and first-person accounts. Suitable: Grades: 7-12 |
| Michael Bourada, Encore Entertainment | Disappearing Daily: The Virtual Anti-Bullying Magic Show | Michael weaves magic into a show dealing with bullying and strategies we can use to make it ‘disappear’. Topics in this presentation include how to identify a bully, recognizing different types of bullying, the emotional damage we can cause someone by bullying, and what we can all do to prevent it. This anti-bullying presentation reinforces W.I.T.S. strategies and how we can Walkaway, Ignore, Talk it out, Seek help. Michael helps students know how and when to use their W.I.T.S. Serving: Kindergarten, Grades 1-8 |
| CMV Social Media Inc. | Digital Intelligence | Presentations delivered virtually or in-person for students, teachers, or parents on how to utilize their social apps and platforms and build their online reputations via principles of digital citizenship. Students learn how to incorporate impeccable character, integrity, kindness and gratitude into their social apps and online experience. This presentation uses relevant, real-world examples, strategies and solutions to guide participants on safe and purposeful digital use. Tools and tips are shared on how to communicate effectively through social media platforms, and how to minimize online risks while creating a meaningful online presence for today and into the future. Serving: Grades 5 - 12 |
| Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC) | Digital DASH/Jump-Starting Digital Careers (JDC) | Students participate in exploratory learning activities to enhance digital competencies that will open pathways towards digital careers. Activities recreate authentic scenarios to engage students to practise their critical thinking in order to solve a problem while thinking of the consequences of the solution. A variety of workshops provide knowledge on the areas of information and communications technology (ICT), cyber arts, and business skills. Students also have an opportunity to meet industry experts, gain practical industry knowledge and learn about current and emerging STEM careers and pathways in ICT. Professional learning is available for staff. Suitable: Grades 6-12; staff |
| I Challenge Diabetes | Diabetes Education | A program that destigmatizes those living with diabetes and provides knowledge and supports to those students living with the disease for the entire school community. Presentation and workshops dispel myths while educating the audience on what it means to live with Type 1 Diabetes including what steps are taken to manage the disease, testing and taking insulin, self care, and use of technology to help those involved succeed. Workshops offer the basics on diabetes including how to use Glucagon to understanding Ministry's PPM 161. Parent workshops are available to provide strategies on how to support students living with diabetes to achieve school success. Serving: Grades 1 - 12 |
| Sir Frederick Banting Legacy Foundation | Diabetes and Sir Frederick Banting | Virtual presentation raises diabetes awareness, reduce risk of youth developing Type 2 diabetes, and discuss Banting and the discovery of Insulin - Canada's gift to the world. Facilitated by SFBLF staff, teachers can pick from four sessions: 1. Understanding Diabetes and Prevention Basics; 2. Living with Diabetes and the Impact (including coping at school); 3. Discovery of Insulin and the Lasting Impact; 4. About Banting and the History. Each hour presentation includes a multi-media tutorial, interactive questions and opportunity for question and answer. Follow-up team-based activities continue the learning after the presentation. Serving: Grades 5-12. |
| Future Design School Inc. | Design Thinking, Entrepreneurship and Leadership | The Future Design School programs offer a variety of experiential learning opportunities for students from K-12 that leverages their knowledge supporting them to apply it in meaningful and relevant real-world settings. These sessions are hands-on and practical, inspiring students to engage deeply through choice and voice. Programs are available in-person and online in the areas of Entrepreneurship, Design Thinking, App Design, STEM, Leadership, Career Exploration, Project Management, Environmental Science and Equity & Inclusion. SPE and SHSM certifications are available. |
| Alzheimer Society of Toronto | Dementia Specific Education | Alzheimer's Society offers dementia training to those who wish to receive foundational knowledge in working with older adults in their careers in various settings. Three programs are: U-First!®, Gentle Persuasive Approaches, and Dementia Foundations. Students will have a greater understanding and knowledge of dementia and be able to provide meaningful support to those living with dementia. Program ranges from half to full day. These programs are for adult students wishing to complete their Personal Support Worker (PSW) certification. Suitable: Learners 18+
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| More Than Words Books Inc. | David Bouchard Presentations | Sessions by renowned Metis author, David Bouchard, inspire, educate and animate the power of reading and stories. David facilitates Canada's Truth & Reconciliation, Calls to Action. Through First Nations stories and Native flutes, poetry and writing, this champion of reading and literacy; and advocate for youth teaches and inspires students, educators and parents. In April 2009, David was named as a Member of the Order of Canada. In Oshawa, in 2012, the David Bouchard Public School opened its doors. In 2017, David was honoured with an Honorary Doctoral of Law degree by Queen's University. |
| dancED Inc. | Dancing Toward Confidence, Creativity and Self-expression | These workshops provide students in Kindergarten to Grade 8 with an exciting platform to experience dance in an approachable way, regardless of ability or experience. Through creative exploration, movement fundamentals, exciting choreography and a live performance to conclude the program, dancED's team of highly trained professional dance artists empower students to unleash their creative potential. Through a unique and dynamic creative process, students will develop personal skills, build a sense of community and discover an appreciation for the performing arts. |
| Janice Pomer | Dance the Moving World | Explore dance and create choreography inspired by movement patterns in Nature. Elementary students deepen their movement skills as they interpret aspects of water, earth, plants, animals, the sky and outer space through collaborative explorations and group choreography. Secondary students are introduced to nature-inspired choreographic structures designed to challenge their technical and creative skills. Professional learning sessions provide elementary teachers with the tools to facilitate dynamic movement programs that connect their students with each other, their community, the environment and other areas of the curriculum. Serving: Kindergarten - Grade 12; Staff |
| Edz Gyamfi | DANCE EDZ-UCATION | These workshops instruct students on the significance of dance street styles - Dancehall, Hip Hop and Afrobeats and their respective history, culture, roots and evolution so students learn dance vocabulary and create their own works. Workshops are open to various dance levels and provides foundational work or more advanced choreography for performance development. Sessions focus on skills and drills, grooves, dance vocabulary, rhythm and tempo changes. In all sessions, students get immersed into the culture through the skills development and dance experience. Suitable: Grades 5-12 |
| Damon45 | Damon45 | Damon Edwards, bi-racial professional athlete, talks about equity, empathy and diversity and facilitates a discussion on what youth can do to navigate, initiate and take part in conversations regarding race. Students will receive practical tools on how to start the conversation, how to speak up and how to help others feel included. In the presentation, Damon shares his personal story as well as stories of other professional Black athletes who overcame hardships and racism and succeeded in making an impact on their sport. Goal of the presentation is to enhance students' understanding of the meaningful influence they can have in sports, school community and society. Serving: Grades 6-12 |
| University of Toronto | Dalla Lana School of Public Health: Pathways to Public Health | In collaboration with the Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement, this program supports Black-identifying students in grades 9-12 with their pursuit of careers and opportunities in public health and health systems. This 10-week program explores pathways into fields of health and health systems (i.e. Clinical Epidemiology, Health Economics, Social Epidemiology, Bioethics and Health Informatics etc.). Students develop life skills along with a deeper understanding of public health concepts and receive ongoing mentorship and support from Black professionals. Sessions also offer students a deeper understanding of health equity and social determinants of health and health policy. Further networking opportunities and engagement with faculty members may be available. |
| SMILE Canada - Support Services | Culturally Responsive Disability Support Workshop | Presentation and workshops raise awareness on the intersectional needs of racialized families with children and youth with disabilities for the school community. It provides an overview on the intersections of xenophobia, racism, Islamophobia, and ableism, while speaking about the importance of incorporating culturally responsive support within all models of service delivery. Sessions generate conversation, use case studies, share examples and experiences and increase participants' understanding of how they can contribute to the journey towards a more accessible and inclusive society. Topics such as language, assumption and bias, ableism, intersectionality are covered in this workshop. Suitable: All grades; staff; parents/caregivers |
| Luana Shirt | Cultural Teachings | Luana Shirt is a Plains Cree/Anishinaabe Indigenous Knowledge Educator and Artist. Through interactive teaching circles, she brings focus and better understanding of Anishinaabe cultural teachings that are centered around the Indigenous world views of traditional roles of women and men, rites of passage of girls and boys, 7 stages of life, 7 grandfathers story and teachings, understanding of water, traditional use of medicines and 13 moon grandmother teachings. Indigenous arts workshops include songs, games and interactive teaching circles. Professional learning available to teachers. |
| Dance 'N' Culture Inc. | Cultural Dance Workshops | Dance workshops either introduce or further explore a variety of cultural dances, history and culture. Dance styles offered include Bollywood, Kathak, Bharatanatyam, Chinese Folk, West African, Soca, Afrobeats and Colombian Folk. Workshop touches on brief history and present day context, geography, traditions, basic movements, songs, and dance expressions (hand gestures, foot patterns, facial expressions). Basic introduction introduces foundational movement and concepts while the workshop series allows students to create, learn choreography, and perform to the school community. Workshops may be used to celebrate a history/heritage month. Suitable: Kindergarten, Grades 1-12
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| Rumberos | Cuban-Brazilian Drumming and Dance | Master Rumbero Joaquín Núñez Hidalgo leads performances and workshops on Cuban/Brazilian drumming, music and dance. Students learn cultural history, relationship between music, dance, costume and other forms of Latin arts. Practical demonstration of how the music is executed using traditional instruments are first shown followed by an exploration of the traditional instruments by students. Facilitator brings all instruments for full classroom participation. Students enhance their performance and ensemble skills while gaining a rich knowledge of Cuban/Brazilian music and culture. Traditional dance steps and choreography are explored in the dance workshops.
These workshops are an enhancement to TDSB Global Music Program for those schools that wish to further enhance their learning beyond the 8 week classroom visits. Serving: Kindergarten, Grades 1-12, Staff
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| Central Toronto Youth Services | CTYS Connections | As an embedded program, these group-based mental health programs utilize evidence informed approaches such as Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), as well as movement and art based activities to increase resiliency and wellness. Groups offered include: 1) Connect to Chill (C2C)/Connections. This group aims to increase affect regulation skills, manage stress, low mood and anxiety and build supportive connections with peers, family and community. 2) Peaceful Alternatives to Tough Situations (PATTS) is an evidence based anger management program. Participants in this group develop nonviolent conflict resolution skills, increase affect regulation, and strengthen relationships to others. All programming is delivered with equity, diversity, accessibility and inclusion in mind as well as through a trauma informed lens. Serving: Grades 7 - 12 |
| Mario Rigby | Crossing Africa: Overcoming An Impossible Journey | Canadian adventure explorer, Mario Rigby, shares his story of how he trekked across 12,000 km across Africa by foot and kayak using his three pillars of success: vision, preparation, action. He conquered what was considered an impossible feat and his continued work as an Adventure Explorer, achieving his dream. Students hear advice on how to overcome challenges and fears to discover their own passion. The presentation highlights Mario's journey, interactions with various African ethnic groups, and the bio-diversity of the various environments in his trek. Serving: Kindergarten - Grades 12 |
| Vujade Entertainment Inc. | Creature Shop | This hands-on workshop teaches students motion picture special effect techniques to create their own animatronic creation. Students handle and explore the simple machines that give the illusion that puppets are alive including mechanical pulleys, push-pull rods, gears and gear chains. Students learn different kinds of special effects, comparing computer generated effects to floor effects. Students build their own animatronic creation. After the workshop, students keep their own creations. Sessions delivered in-person only. Suitable: Kindergarten - Grade 8 |
| Laura Beglin | Creativity, Confidence, Artistry Through Dance | In these dance workshops, students build leadership skills as they create their own choreography and creative composition. Each session typically concentrates on one dance style or tradition, providing instruction in technique and dance history. Styles available include jazz, ballet, hip hop, disco, modern, musical theatre, country line dance, Western-style folk dance, and creative movement. With elementary students the instructor focuses on body and spatial awareness, form and style, and physical conditioning. With secondary students the instructor places greater emphasis on proper dance technique and history. All workshops seek to provide new and diverse perspectives to teachers and students in the classroom. Serving: Kindergarten, Grades 1-12, Staff |
| Kaeja d'Dance | Creative Movement and Dance Film | Professional trained dancers provide dance and movement workshops that touch on fundamental concepts of dance – body, space, time, relationship, and energy – to get all students active and engaged in the creative process. Sessions are delivered in person or virtually. We offer workshops in Dance Improvisation (intuitive movement in response to text, images and soundscapes), Express Dance (creating dances using natural movement vocabulary), Kaeja Elevations (partner work that allows students to soar safely through the air), and Dance Film (choreographing, directing, and editing short dance pieces for the screen). Professional learning for teachers is also available. Serving: Kindergarten - Grade 12 |
| Jessica Dubeau | Creative Dance Solutions | Dance enrichment workshops provide choreography in historically black influenced dance genres such as: Hip Hop, Jazz, African, Caribbean (Soca, Dancehall), Contemporary, Musical Theatre, and Disco styles. In a safe, inclusive and encouraging environment, students learn the characteristics of each style through choreographic sequences and fundamental dance and sport movements built into exercises, routines, and rhythmic drills that provide athletic building components that are unique to dance. At the end of a workshop series, students will perform a choreographed routine that was created during the unit. Each type of sessions promotes cultural acceptance, Black awareness and enrichment as well as diversification and anti-racism through practiced mediums and techniques. Serving: Grades K - 12
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| Nia Centre for The Arts Incorporated | Creative Connect | Sessions available for Kindergarten - Grade 12. In elementary schools, workshops are designed to expand knowledge around artistic traditions from across the Afro Diaspora. Guided by professional artists, students will engage in a hands-on learning experience, creating and exploring traditional arts. In secondary schools, workshops support Black, African, Caribbean and Afro Diasporic students who have found their purpose in art by providing post-secondary and employment pathways, career exploration and mentorship opportunities. Established professional artists who work in the creative arts guide students to identify pathway connections, build career networks, and the skills needed to stay motivated to succeed. Professionals also provide career advice, support and mentorship opportunities. SHSM & SPE opportunities are available.
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| VIBE ARTS | Creative Classrooms | Children and youth from schools in neighbourhood improvement areas engage in high-quality, tailor-made, hands-on arts workshops conducted by professional artists. Students of all levels of ability create works of art through mediums such as dance, drama, dub poetry, environmental art, visual and integrated arts, murals, video and filmmaking, and photography, while also learning to reflect their cultural heritage and personal identity into their works. Suitable: select schools
Professional learning is also available, leading teachers through a series of hands-on experiences which include art appreciation, studio techniques, and lesson planning, as well as sharing and discussing effective strategies for integrating arts into core curriculum areas.
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| Canadian Contemporary School of Art Inc. | Creative Art Practice | Enhanced arts workshops for elementary and secondary students in a variety of art forms that encourage imagination, trusting one's intuition and creativity. Workshop offerings for elementary students include: textile printing, photography, puppetry, cartooning, fashion and wearable art, animation, and architecture. Workshop offerings for secondary students include: watercolor painting, acrylic painting, abstract painting and sculpting. Workshops provide opportunities for self-expression, creativity, problem solving, calculated risk-taking along with the enjoyment of seeing one's creative efforts lead to tangible results. Serving: Grades 1 - 12 |
| RPDY Foundation | Creative Art and Play Programs | In selected LC4 schools, students experiencing social and emotional difficulties are referred by Professional Support Services, to support them through the provision of these specialized opportunities for creative expression. These art and play therapy programs assist students with self-exploration and understanding. Using imagery, colour and shapes; thoughts and feelings can be expressed that may be otherwise difficult for children to articulate. Various art materials and activities are available, including: sand trays, clay projects, puppets, storytelling, music, dance and movement, drama, and various art materials. Serving: Select students, Kindergarten - Grade 8 |
| Trinity Theatre Toronto | Creating Communities We Want | Referred students become peer leaders in conflict mediation techniques through workshops that engage them in a variety of art and drama-based activities. Trained student peer leaders facilitate workshops, talking circles and presentations with other students in their school, improving both their communication and conflict resolution skills alongside the development of their leadership capabilities. Handling Conflict peer mediation training through the arts, sessions refine students' skills in understanding emotions like anger through active listening and empathy, as well as open and closed questioning. Sessions for staff include resource: Making Connections, a substance abuse toolkit for students. Serving: Grades 7 - 12. |
| Y2 Entrepreneurship | Creating a Sustainable Business Model | Facilitated by business and not-for-profit leaders, this workshop series helps students from Grades 9-12 develop an entrepreneurial mindset and to understand key components of a sustainable business model/solution. Sessions are delivered in-person or virtually. Themes include financial forecasting, key customer segments, unique value propositions, and key activities and resources required to offer their solution. Students also identify key revenue and operational cost drivers as they build a financial forecast for their business model. Engaging and interactive, program may be customized to meet the unique needs of different classes including creating solutions to bring to the market. Teacher resources are available post-workshop.
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| James Mandarino | Courage to Dream | Jay Mandarino shares his life story of overcoming obstacles, achieving success, and giving back to the community in this free inspirational assembly. Students hear a positive message to not let any obstacles stop them from achieving their dreams. Jay Mandarino talks about business and entrepreneurship, confidence and self-esteem and how to live with a learning disability such as dyslexia and ADHD and the life challenges these diagnoses often present. His message empowers students to strive for success in the face of adversity, through the real life examples of lived experience. Presentation is followed by a question and answer period. Serving: Grades 5 - 12 |
| Naseeha Youth Helpline | Countering Anti-Muslim Racism | Workshops counter anti-Muslim racism and Islamophobia to promote students' sense of well-being. Through activities, workshops and question & answer sessions, students build confidence and joy with their identities and culture. Three workshops are available: Did You Know? talks about the achievements of Muslims around the world; More Than Just Shawarma discusses identity in a safe and engaging space and Not Even Water? breaks down stereotypes, myths and bias while exploring identity and understanding. Planning with teachers to ensure workshops meet curriculum needs of staff and classrooms. Professional learning and parent/caregiver sessions also available. Suitable: Grades 6-12; staff; parents/caregivers |
| Kids Help Phone/Jeunesse J'Ecoute | Counsellor in the Classroom/Intervenant·e dans la classe | Presentation that helps to break down any preconceptions and stigma around Kids Help Phone while promoting discussion of mental health and well-being in students. The counsellor provides an overview of Kids Help Phone, services offered, discuss why it is hard to reach out for help, and provide some common questions and concerns that young people have when seeking help. The class has an opportunity to engage with the counsellor by asking any questions they discussed in the preparation activity. Teachers receive a resource package to support the learning as well as optional extension activities to expand their learning. Sessions may be offered in French. Suitable: Grades 4-12
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| Behaviour Matters Inc. | Cool Tools for Mental Health | Sessions help students develop social skills alongside other aspects of social-emotional development, such as emotional regulation, healthy self-esteem, leadership, confidence, positive body language, active listening, cooperation, problem-solving, positive coping/self-talk, assertive communication, and developing a growth mindset in an interactive and fun manner. Workshops include Connections (Social Skills & Relationships); Control (Emotional Awareness & Regulation); Cheerfulness (Self-Esteem & Perspectives); Stress and Moods (Mental Health); and, a Growth Mindset (Self-Confidence & Regulation). Workshops for parents and educators focus on Positive Parenting; Behaviour Management; Social-Emotional Development; and, Anxiety Management.
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| Real Talk Learning Experiences | Content is King | Having a sound understanding of how social media works, both on the front-end and the back-end, allows young people and parents/guardians to employ best practices and make good decisions about utilizing the medium. The Digital Age has affected the way many industries do business. The marketing industry has changed from outbound methods that cast a broad net to an undefined target audience, to inbound tactics to attract a desired customer to products and services. Content marketing by way of videos, written content and podcasts, in conjunction with social media marketing and search engine marketing has become a standard in contemporary marketing. Topics in these student and parent workshops include - Content is King, Media Literacy & Technology, Let's Take a Selfie: Social Media and You. Serving: Grades 7-12, Parents/Caregivers |
| Toronto Biennial of Art | Contemporary Indigenous Arts Programming | Available during the Biennial season, Sept 21 - Dec 01, 2024, these half-day sessions focus on amplifying Indigenous Allyship and Artists of Colour. The Toronto Biennial of Art (TBA) connects learners with locally and internationally-based artists' projects and provides an opportunity to learn through decolonizing practices that showcase multiple histories and the many forms of 'knowing.' These learning opportunities for students from pre-Kindergarten to grade 12 will deepen their social, geopolitical and peacemaking understandings in the contexts of the city of Tkaronto/Toronto and surrounding areas. TBA's Mobile Arts Curriculum learning tools, developed by Biennial artists and available for free year-round, centre decolonization through the arts and the multiple voices of Indigenous and counter-archival histories. Students will engage in practices, techniques and approaches in art-making. Staff professional development is also available.
Suitable for: K-12. |
| SAVIS of Halton | Consent, Bodily Integrity and Health Relationships | Presentations address consent in romantic, social, and sexual contexts for secondary students. Topics include how to navigate social relationships - what is consent, how to ask for consent, how to say no and how to accept hearing no; what makes a healthy relationship, what to look for in relationships and how to navigate different relationships as young people. Consent in relation to sexual violence is also outlined to address the unfortunate prevalence of sexual violence in our communities. Presentations are delivered with time for discussion and reflection by students throughout the session. Grades 9-12 |
| Taking IT Global Youth Association | Connected North | Educators, staff and students at the TDSB Urban Indigenous Education Centre are supported in the use of collaborative technology and virtual visits from Connected North lead staff, Waukomaun Pawis, or designate. Through collaborative project based learning, unique content and connections are developed for schools in the north and in the south to access cultural exchange opportunities and curriculum enhancement. Urban Indigenous students and staff connect through visiting partners and online video-conferencing with Indigenous school communities in remote locations, providing them access to expertise that might otherwise have been very difficult to acquire. Serving: Grades 1-12, Staff |
| X Movement Inc. | Connected Movement | Connected Movement provides full-day workshops and events that integrate physical, emotional and social literacy to the school community. These include: Australian cultural and sports explores cricket, aussie football and netball; ‘X-ME Experience’ incorporates fitness alongside breathing exercises; ‘X-Other’ forges friendships and healthy relationships; ‘X-World’ utilizes play to work collectively together; ‘Extravaganza’ utilizes creative moment, mindful movement and expressive movement to allow students to celebrate themselves. Suitable: all grades; staff; parents/caregivers
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| Joseph "Joze" Piranian | Confronting Adversity, One Word at a Time | As a lifelong stutterer, Joze shares his story of transformation in this inspirational keynote as a way for students to learn how to face their fears and embrace what makes them unique. Students learn resilience, courage, persistence, and coping skills and enhance their capacities for empathy, inclusion, self-expression, and self-acceptance. In sharing his story, Joze provides the tools to overcome life's obstacles alongside the wisdom that allows us to see them as opportunities for personal betterment; that our fears and insecurities cease to control us when we choose to act in spite of them. Keynote can be presented in English, French, Spanish, and Arabic. Serving: all grades, staff and parents |
| Talli Osborne | Confidence is Beautiful | Born without arms and missing bones in her legs, Talli Osborne imparts important lessons to students on how to persevere despite physical disabilities and differences in this motivational assembly. She shares stories of achieving success in the face of bullying and life's many adversities. She encourages us to be more empathetic and compassionate, rallying acceptance towards ourselves to consider the fortunes we do have, rather than the ones that we do not. Through her unique perspective, Talli Osborne gives reasons for students to accept who they are and share that same acceptance towards others. This presentation is followed by a Q & A. Serving: Kindergarten, Grades 1-12, Staff, Parents/Caregivers |
| Lumenus Community Services | Community-based Treatment and Support Services | Services offer a continuum of support to select students, their families and care providers. Supports include accessible services that can take place in the home, school, or community and for students whose school or home placement is at risk of breakdown due to mental health and other issues. Lumenus staff work one-one-one with referred students and/or with key adults in the students' lives, to support their optimal functioning based on goals from the students' treatment plans. Lumenus staff connect students and key adults to needed community resources. In particular, the program provides strategies to address difficulties in social, emotional, behavioural, communication, cognitive, learning and/or developmental domains of functioning. Services can include observation and assessment in the home; support and training for parents, teachers and other school staff as needed; and individual student program planning for the classroom and at home, service coordination, and transition support from treatment into classroom setting. Lumenus staff work in collaboration with TDSB Professional Support Services staff in order to facilitate a coordinated service for referred students (any grade).
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| George Brown College | Community Worker Field Placements | This program provides field placement opportunities for students in the second year of the Community Worker program. Field placements within TDSB sites provide post-secondary students who are considering a career in their specialized area, an opportunity to gain direct experience in understanding the learning strategies employed in the Board, schools, and classrooms. Field placement students collaborate with TDSB staff to enhance their understanding of curriculum; plan and implement activities and foster positive relationships with parents/caregivers, students, and staff These placements satisfy post-secondary course requirements for field placement experience. |
| Holland Bloorview Hospital | Communication and Writing Aids Service | The Communication and Writing Aids Service (CWAS) program includes an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) service and a Writing Aids (WA) service. AAC provides consultative support to children in the classroom and at home when their speech does not meet their face-to-face communication needs. WA provides technological support (laptop and specialized software) to children who use natural speech as their primary means of communication, but are unable, due to a physical disability, to write with pen and paper functionally. Students who use AAC may also need a WA. Holland Bloorview CWA staff collaborate with the TDSB School Support Team (SST), including the Speech Language Pathologist, Occupational and/or Physical Therapist, Principal, and teacher to determine an appropriate AAC and/or WA system and to facilitate the mutually agreed upon system into the classroom. |
| The Concerned Kids Charity of Toronto | Communicating Through Puppetry to Create Safe School Communities | The Concerned Kids educates children about important social issues like bullying, mental health, celebrating differences, self-esteem, cyber safety, cyberbullying, respect, and inclusion through the uniquely engaging art of puppetry. Our cast of diverse puppets educates students in Kindergarten-Grade 5 about making kinder choices using our TCK ‘heart’ values of humility, empathy, allyship, respect, and trust to create safer school communities for all. Each presentation is followed by a question and answer session to allow students to ask questions about the issues raised, and solidify the learning objectives of the performance. Suitable: Kindergarten Grades 6 |
| Common Compass Pro-Social Programs | Common Compass | Workshops and training promote belonging, inclusion, social-emotional well-being and positive mental health. They empower students to show empathy as they interact with their peers in their school and beyond. They seek to enhance students’ self identity and self esteem; strengthen connectedness and positive school climate; and, support assertive communication. It promotes social inclusion, and positive decision-making. Students learn strategies to manage their mental health and well-being, social emotional learning; understanding their emotions, developing coping skills, improving emotional expression and communication skills; and, developing leadership skills. Iidentity-affirming practices are utilized to support student needs. Professional Learning and Parent sessions available to provide further supports to the entire school community. Suitable: Kindergarten; Grades 1- 12; Professional Learning for staff; Parents/Caregivers
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