| 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 |
| Debbie Deer Productions | Virtual Technology and Production Workshop | Virtual Technology and production workshop immerses secondary students in using virtual reality, augmented reality and mixed reality (collectively known as XR) and the careers that lies in it. Black-identifying industry professionals lead sessions about virtual film production, augmented and mixed reality technology and how it is used to tell their own stories through film production. Facilitators share exciting new careers in film and VR industry. Students have opportunity to learn software such as AR and apply it themselves by making their own augmented reality filter and experience a VR demo with headset. Suitable: Grades 9-12
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| Anthony Lue | Turning Tragedy into Triumph: The Story of a Para-athlete | Virtually, Anthony Lue, a para-athlete in cycling, speaks to students about resilience, maintaining a positive attitude and overcoming obstacles in the face of stark adversity. In 2009, an accident at a scrap metal yard left him paralyzed from the waist down. But though his body was broken, his incredible spirit remained intact and the will to live. Anthony shares the importance of overcoming challenges, goal setting through sports, teamwork, and seeing life in a new way despite a disability and striving to achieve mammoth goals in life. Virtual sessions only. Serving Grades 4 - 12. |
| York University | Wabaan _ Indigenous Initial Teacher Education | Wabaan is an Anishinabe (Ojibwa) word meaning it is tomorrow. It signifies commitment to a holistic program of teaching and learning that acknowledges the impacts of colonialism, and draws on the wisdom of ancestral teachings and contemporary leaders to put Indigenous futures into Indigenous hands. Rooted in Indigenous Thought, Wabaan will provide traditional and contemporary teachings from Indigenous Elders, educators, and community leaders virtually or in person. Responding to the urgent and long-standing need for a teacher education program that centers Indigenous worldviews, knowledges and pedagogies, York will work with TDSB Urban Indigenous Education Centre, teachers and students to support the development of a program that will educate a new generation of teachers prepared to address the needs of First Nation, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) students, families and communities. |
| Lifted By Purpose Inc. | Mental Health First Aid | While adults who work with youth often know a lot about physical illness, most staff and parents/guardians have less knowledge about mental health or substance use problems. This lack of understanding often leads to fear and negative attitudes toward youth living with these problems. It prevents caring adults from seeking help for themselves, and from providing appropriate support to the young people around them who may be struggling with their well-being. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is the help provided to a youth who may be experiencing a decline in their mental health or who might be in a crisis. These sessions are designed for caring adults who have frequent contact with young people. They enhance the work of TDSB Professional Support Services, as they engage with teachers, Administrators, other schools staff, or parents/guardians. Lifted Purpose is an accredited delivery agent of the Mental Health Commission of Canada programming. |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| Elizabeth Hysen | Sensory Art | Workshop series uses ASL and vibrotactile devices to devise a sound sculpture that is accessible for students who are deaf. Facilitators are comprised of one deaf music ASL interpreter, one hard-of-hearing media artist and one CODA musician. Workshops explore ASL music interpretation through modified instruments to create accessible art practices that can be expanded on depending on the needs of the participants. Students also hear from professional artists who share how ASL interpretation is a viable career choice in the Arts. Students will have a chance to play on modified instruments and prototypes. Workshop series culminates in a musical work by students to create an accessible sound installation. Suitable: Grades 9-12 |
| The Fringe of Toronto Theatre Festival | Pathways to Fringe Theatre | Workshop series, delivered in-person or by video-conferencing, takes students on a "Producing 101" pathway towards creating and premiering their own Fringe show. As an incubator of the most diverse and exciting artists and productions in the country, Fringe Festival staff and acclaimed independent artists/producers work with students to bring and develop their vision to the stage. This 5-part workshop series focuses on the following processes: creation, direction, technical elements, execution and putting on the show. |
| 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 |
| Raging Asian Women Taiko Drummers | Taiko Drumming Performances and Workshops | Workshops and Performances are presented by a professional ensemble of East and Southeast Asian women, non-binary, and genderqueer people. School communities will experience both traditional and contemporary Taiko drumming pieces; learn the historical and creative contexts behind them; and, enhance their understanding of Japanese culture and Asian history. Sessions deepen school communities' understanding of Asian Heritage through Taiko drumming. Through each undeniably strong, yet nimble percussive sound that is generated from the orchestra of drums played in rhythm, students of all ages will witness both the strength of force that sound is capable of, and likewise find that same potential within themselves to be heard. Suitable: All students; staff; parents/caregivers |
| 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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| York University | Making Science Fun! | Workshops are designed to excite students about STEM and ignite a genuine passion for learning. Students work in teams through guided projects and experiments to gain an understanding of STEM concepts. A variety of elementary and secondary school workshops are offered: Bacteria Biology, CSI: Classroom Scene Investigation, Careers in Interdisciplinary Medicine, and more! Customized workshops are also available. Instructors share related scientific research taking place at the university and discuss real-world applications of topics, making the learning relevant to students. Suitable: Grades 3-12 |
| Canadian Mental Health Association CMHA | The Opening Doors Project | Workshops are interactive and experiential and provide an understanding of mental health, managing stress, racism and anti-discrimination, intersectional identities in the Canadian context, and the newcomer experience. Through group activities and storytelling, students discuss self-care tools for coping with stress, the stigma and challenges for those living with mental illness and learn to develop strategies for challenging discrimination in their lives. Topics include: Building Bridges: Anti-Racism 101, Understanding Migration, Mental Health and Wellness 101, Stress and Self-Care in Context, Starting From the 'I': Reflecting On Our Identities; and Know Your Rights 101. The Opening Doors Project’s Syrian and Newcomer Youth Mentorship Initiative, provides additional youth mentorship and case management support to newcomer students, primarily Arabic-speaking and Somali students. Serving: Grades 7-12; students 18+
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| 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 |
| Noam Markus | Storytelling Through Mime and Physical Theatre | Workshops develop group trust, listening and performance skills in the areas of mime and physical theatre for all students. Sessions use a variety of physical skills and movement as the primary method of storytelling. Students build coordination, body movement, observation, focus, listening and presentation skills. Sessions for younger students utilize simple mime skills, basic improvisation skills and general body coordination. More advanced sessions use more complex techniques such as Graphic Mime, Character Mask, Commedia dell'Arte, Theatrical Clown work and hand shadow puppets. Workshop series enable students to develop storylines and presentation skills for a performance to the class/school. Serving: Grades 1-12
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| North Toronto Soccer Club Nitros/Kicks | Nitros in Schools Soccer | Workshops enhance soccer training for elementary students. Qualified, licensed coaches provide instruction and guidance to develop students' physical literacy and soccer skills through fun games, educational activities and drills. Workshops also provide professional learning opportunities for TDSB elementary school staff to build confidence in sports instruction. Further details about the program can be found at www.ntsoccer.com/Community/NTSCSchoolProgram. Serving: Kindergarten, Grades 1-8, Staff |
| Dance to Live | Hispanic Dance & Culture / Danza y Cultura Hispana | Workshops enhance the learning of Spanish language and culture by providing opportunities for engagement in Latin and Spanish dance and music. In-person or virtual sessions offer students a chance to learn and practice Spanish language, communication skills, cultural exploration as well as physical movement and literacy. Dance forms introduced include Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, Cha Cha, Cumbia and Flamenco. Elementary students are introduced to Latin rhythms, clapping and dance movements culminating in a short dance choreography. Secondary students enhance their listening and communication skills with peers while learning more complicated dance steps and routines facilitated either in Spanish, English, or French. Fitness dance programs are available. |
| 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'. |
| Fashion Takes Action | My Clothes My World | Workshops for Grades 4 - 12, in English and French, virtually or in-person, and SHSM students, explore the social and environmental impacts of the global fashion industry with students, while empowering the to build a more resilient and sustainable future. Sessions include: 1. Greenwashing & Transparency: students will become equipped with the tools to identify greenwashing and learn about the certifications that support sustainable fashion; 2. 7Rs of Fashion: students learn about the circular economy, and how they can be part of the solution by using the 7Rs of Circular Fashion; 3. Human Rights & Labour: students explore the human rights issues throughout the global supply chain; 4. Life Cycle of a T-shirt: students explore the environmental footprint of making a t-shirt, from raw materials to end of life.
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| Parks and Recreation Ontario | HIGH FIVE - Principles of Healthy Child Development | Workshops impart principles of healthy child development to students, teachers and parents. This workshop is designed specifically for front line leaders working with children ages 4-12. Facilitators cover key topics including: children's mental health, physical literacy, conflict resolution and bullying prevention. Participants learn how to incorporate physical literacy best practices into the classroom, program planning, communication, teamwork and problem solving skills. The HIGH FIVE® program is a recognized national quality standard in children's programs. Serving: Grades 9-12, Staff, Parents/Caregivers
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| Veritus Pictures Inc. | Youth Filmmakers Academy | Workshops in-person or through video-conferencing provide authentic expression of student voice through filmmaking. This team-based approach provides students with skills, technique and tips on a variety of filmmaking elements including camera work, audio recording, video production, and editing. For schools looking for a more in depth exploration of filmmaking, James Buffin offers a five day program to take students from concept to completion for documentary or dramatic projects. Suitable: Kindergarten, Grades 1-12 |
| Chess Institute of Canada | Bringing Chess to Life | Workshops introduce the game of chess - and a variety of chess-related activities and challenges - to the whole class. Students demonstrate remarkably high levels of engagement and focus, communication of complex logic, and performance of sophisticated calculations in the chess context. Curriculum-specific math skills are enhanced through these joyful experiences with logic and design, which provide a basis for later confidence in pursuing STEM careers. Chess workshops also include discussion of the inner game, opening opportunities for self-reflection and providing tools and perspectives to help students become more successful at taking on challenges, dealing with setbacks and losses, solving problems, and building healthy relationships. |
| Wordswell Association for Community Learning | Illumine Media Project | Workshops offer an opportunity for student inquiry into the processes and messages embedded in a variety of media. Through facilitated discussions, students analyze the implications of the time in history we’re living in within the broader context of a conversation about their own identity and sense of purpose. Media content created by youth for youth in Toronto neighbourhoods explore themes that include hope, individual and collective growth, community progress, co-operation and competition, service to our communities and choosing our life’s path. Students delve further in the production process and have the opportunity to complete their own digital stories when engaged in a workshop series. Students participate in critical discussions relating to commonly held assumptions about youth and community both through lived experience and representations in narrative media. Suitable for grades 6-12. |
| Stratford Festival | Learning Through Theatre | Workshops offer enrichment to the Stratford Festival's season plays with a focus on contemporary engagement with Shakespeare, Musical Theatre and contemporary plays. They may focus on a genre or a specific play with an emphasis on key issues/questions explored and what they mean to students. They may include an introduction to fight choreography as well as an invitation for students to learn and develop particular dance choreography or vocal arrangements. All workshops are delivered by professional teaching artists through communal active exercises and hands-on exploration. Professional development workshops for staff and specialized customized workshops are also available. Serving: Grades 3-12, Staff
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| Cristina Delago | The Art of Mosaic | Workshops offer mosaic making technique, process and mosaic art; longer sessions enable students to create a mosaic art mural using recycled materials. An introduction of mosaic art history and a slide demonstration of mosaic murals in our city, will inspire students to be able to make their own. Demonstrations of various techniques, design concepts and materials will be presented. Students learn by discovery, self-expression and small group activity. Activities include sketching life size and perspective, composition with shapes, sizes, colour and texture, creating movement and contrast with materials used. Suitable: 4-12
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| Rebecca Baird | Traditional Indigenous Art Practices | Workshops provide a hands-on experience that result in a tangible, memorable takeaway using a variety of Indigenous materials and art forms. Sample works include individual artwork using porcupine quills on birch bark, two-row wampum bracelets created using traditional Indigenous materials, beaded rosettes, individual cloth banners containing Indigenous teachings, or creation of a lasting on-site mural depicting Indigenous visual storytelling. Facilitator, Rebecca Baird, engages students in meaningful dialogue, citing the visual and material symbolism involved, including traditional Indigenous environmental teachings and relationships of cross-generational connections between the individual and community. Such teachings create a rewarding learning experience of Indigenous cultural values that reaches out and impacts meaningfully upon the community at large. Suitable: Grades 5-12
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| YMCA of Greater Toronto | Newcomer Youth Leadership Development | Workshops provide newcomer students with information and tools to help students build essential leadership skills and ways to have a sense of belonging in the community. Topics focus on leadership skills, communication, community engagement, post-secondary schools/careers and youth issues. Developed in consultation with newcomer youth, these sessions are interactive and relevant for youth in a newcomer friendly approach. Workshops ensure students with varying levels of English comprehension can actively participate work on their communication skills. Suitable: Grades 8-12 |
| Angela Aula | Inuit Culture and Art | Workshops share art, music, traditions of Inuit culture from Inuit artist, Angela Aula. Students learn traditions, ways of life and experiences while making connections to the land and Indigenous perspective. Topics covered include Inuit history, language teaching, art, and murals. Suitable: Kindergarten; Grades 1-12 |
| Bust a Move Dance | Inclusive Dance | Workshops use dance for students with disabilities to build on body awareness, self-regulation and creativity. Students learn and practise techniques to help with movement, coordination and focus. Movement exercises are adapted to be inclusive including exceptional individuals (special needs) and needs of the students of all abilities and strengths. Workshop series provides an opportunity for students to learn a dance choreography and routine. Suitable: Students with disabilities in Kindergarten, Grades 1-12 |
| Liwi68 Inc. | Art with Mark Stoddart: Visual Communication | Workshops use the creative process to explore the multiplicities and complexities of student identities, experiences and cultures. As a Black visual communicator, graphic designer and painter, Mark is committed to educating, empowering and uniting through art. Students enhance their understanding of the deconstruction of symbols within media arts and developing advanced skills in storytelling. Students create their own artwork while thinking about themselves and their intersectional identities. Culminating projects may be murals, apparel, graphic design and/or products. Suitable: Grades 1-12; staff; parents/caregivers
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| H.U.S.T.L.E Inc. | The Great Canadian Hustle | Workshops use the medicine wheel to guide Indigenous youth in creating a healthy lifestyle in select schools. Facilitated by an Indigenous facilitator, students increase their physical and mental wellness and develop good life skills. Sessions and topics include physical activity, training on gym equipment, healthy eating and goal-setting using Indigenous traditions and knowledge. Each session includes a physical movement/exercise with or without equipment, yoga/meditation and sharing circle/affirmations. Suitable: grades 6-12 |
| Project: Humanity Inc. | PH Verbatim Theatre | Workshops use Verbatim Theatre to help students explore their own voices, insights and stories. Verbatim Theatre-making techniques use improvisation, interviews, debates, and role-playing to generate material to be sculpted into a play. Professional theatre artist facilitators engage students in questions of social justice including examining privilege, colonialism, and systemic marginalization. Facilitators also introduce performance techniques that help students honour and animate perspectives of others through exploration of voice, physicality, movement, rhythm, character emotion and spatial storytelling. At the end of this workshop, students gain meaningful insights about ethical storytelling and realize their own ‘real-life’ narratives. Serving: Grades 7-12 |
| Imagine Yoga and Wellness Inc. | Accessible & Adaptable Yoga | Workshops, in person or virtual delivery, use yoga and mindfulness activities for students to build on body awareness, self-regulation and mobility, especially for diverse learners with exceptionalities. Students learn and practise techniques to help with movement, breathing, well-being and connection between the mind and body. Activities and exercises are adapted to be inclusive including exceptional individuals (special needs) and are based on the needs of the students (no matter shape, size, ability and strength) ensuring practise is safe for every participant. Program is suitable for Intensive Support Programs (ISPs). |
