Strengthening Community
Connections in 2023
We believe it takes a village to raise a child and we need many communities across the region to help us ensure that every student reaches their full potential in the classroom and in life. This means building meaningful, mutually beneficial relationships with the diverse communities that we serve all across Waterloo Region.
This year, as one part of our commitment to Transform Education Through Engagement, we met with a range of community leaders and stakeholders. Many of these meetings are opportunities for WRDSB to gain feedback from those we serve, and the organizations we partner with in serving the needs of students.
In May, we came together with students, families, local community organizers, educators, local government leaders and representatives of the Ministry of Education for an event that showcased how we’re transforming education through support for student achievement and well-being. Attendees had the opportunity to participate in interactive demonstrations and presentations, engage with program leads and education experts, and learn about the WRDSB’s innovative curriculum. Staff passionately shared strategies and approaches, allowing partners in education to witness and experience the innovative ways in which the WRDSB leads education.
The Caribbean Canadian Association of Waterloo Region and the Congress of Black Women of Canada - Waterloo Region jointly hosted the Awards of Excellence 2023 in September. Several WRDSB staff members were in attendance alongside government officials and representatives from across the Waterloo Region to celebrate the scholarship award recipients who are leaders in their communities.
In November, students and staff took part in the Sikh Remembrance Day event at Mount Hope Cemetery in Kitchener to pay tribute to Sikh-Candian veterans and soldiers. Together with the community, we honoured the remarkable journey of Private Buckham Singh, who became one of only nine Sikh soldiers allowed to serve with the Canadian Forces in WWI.
For decades, the WRDSB has partnered with the United Way Waterloo Region Communities to host an annual staff giving campaign, knowing that together we can help to build a stronger Waterloo Region. Many of the organizations which receive funding from the United Way support WRDSB students and their families with everything from food insecurity to mental health and well-being. In November, staff gathered at the Education Centre to celebrate the beginning of another year of giving, together with leaders of unions and labour groups.
By working together with parents and caregivers, community leaders and partners in education, we will continue to help students thrive and build a healthy and inclusive Waterloo Region.