News & Announcements
Daily School Absence Report
The UGDSB is reporting daily on school absence rates, allowing us to monitor absenteeism rates and transparently share this information with the public. To view the dashboard, click here.
All UGDSB schools to remain in remote learning following Spring Break
On Monday April 12, 2021, the provincial government announced that all Ontario schools would participate in remote learning following the April Break.
All UGDSB schools directed to shift to remote learning effective Wed. April 7
The UGDSB has been notified by Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health that Public Health’s Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Nicola Mercer, will issue an Order, directing all schools within the WDG region to shift to remote learning effective Wednesday April 7, 2021.
#UGUmbrella – This April we are looking at Intrinsic Motivation
April’s Umbrella Project theme is “Intrinsic Motivation.” For those who are unsure exactly what that means, intrinsic motivation is the act of doing something without an external reward.
Information about elementary graduation celebrations
Due to on-going COVID-19 restrictions around large gatherings and physical distancing, UGDSB elementary schools will not be able to hold traditional in-person graduation ceremonies this spring. This includes both indoor and outdoor ceremonies.
Recommended reading in Indigenous education and knowledge
This year, Upper Grand DSB board and school staff groups have continued organizing and participating in book studies, focusing on furthering learning in anti-racism and anti-oppression. Here are some ideas for recommended reading in Indigenous education and knowledge.
Policy feedback opportunity: Indigenous Education
The following new draft policy has been released for public consultation, and feedback from the public is welcome on the draft documents: Policy 519 – Indigenous Education (First Nations, Métis, Inuit).
Asymptomatic COVID-19 testing available to our school on March 25, 27, 28
Asymptomatic COVID-19 testing is available for all students and their family members and staff from our school on March 25, 27 and 28, 2021.
Child Abuse Prevention Program- Grades 1-3
Dear Families, Please see the attached letter, for grades 1-3 students. This letter was also sent home as a hard copy. Child Abuse Prevention Program Thanks, Mr. CreightonWorld Down Syndrome Day- Wear Fun Socks!
Hello James McQueen Community, In order to recognize and celebrate the contributions of people with Down Syndrome, and advocate for the rights of people with Down Syndrome, we will be holding a "fun sock" day on Friday, March 19th. Wear fun socks, miss-matched, or any combination you can think of! Mr. Creighton ...Wear Green Day – March 17
Hello James McQueen Community, If you would like to participate, we are having a green day on Wednesday, March 17th. Students could wear a piece(s) of green clothing to have some fun. Thanks, Mr. CreightonFinal review of elementary waitlist on April 1, 2021
March 12, 2021 The Upper Grand District School Board will conduct one final review of the waitlist for families wishing to switch between the Elementary Remote School and in-person learning on April 1, 2021. After April 1, students will be required to remain in their current ...One year of COVID, taking time to reflect and heal
The Canadian Mental Health Association of Waterloo-Wellington has prepared resources for educational staff, students and families, which focus on acknowledging the losses experienced due to the COVID-19 pandemic, while making space for gratitude and hope.
UGDSB hosting final PIC parent engagement event, focusing on Special Education
April 8, 2021 – Navigating Special Education. This event features five breakout session topics, with participants given the option to select two sessions to attend.
Addressing anti-Asian racism, resources to support educators
This month, the Upper Grand District School Board’s Equity Team shared with staff a resource on addressing anti-Asian racism. We all have a role to play in learning, unlearning and working to dismantle racism and oppression in our communities.
UGDSB reflects on Black Heritage, Black Brilliance and Black Futures Month
This month, the Upper Grand District School Board recognized and celebrated Black Heritage, Black Brilliance and Black Futures Month.
#UGUmbrella – This March we focus on Mindfulness
This month for the Umbrella Project we are focusing on mindfulness. Mindfulness is being aware of what’s happening right now without wishing it was different.
Black Heritage Month spotlight: Alfred M. Lafferty
Throughout Black Heritage, Black Brilliance and Black Futures Month, many schools have been celebrating the lives and accomplishments of Black individuals in Canada and beyond.
COVID-19 School Self-Screening Changes
The Ministry of Education has revised the self-screening requirements for all students in Ontario, effective immediately. Please review the following information for important updates.
Preliminary information about COVID-19 testing in schools
The Ministry of Education has instructed school boards to implement a targeted COVID-19 testing program in schools. The testing will be voluntary and consent will be required. Testing will be for asymptomatic students and staff only. The UGDSB is currently in the process of developing a targeted testing plan.
Ministry of Education postpones March Break, new date April 12-16, 2021
On Feb. 11, 2021, Minister of Education Stephen Lecce announced that the Ministry has postponed March Break in Ontario schools until April 12-16, 2021.