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Deborah Williams

@deborahwilliamsto

TDSB Trustee, Ward 10 (University-Rosedale & Toronto Centre). I believe strong public education builds strong communities.

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28.11.2024
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Latest posts by Deborah Williams @deborahwilliamsto

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Ontario students need smaller classes, not another EQAO review - CCPA Instead of chasing explanations for low test scores the government should reduce and cap class sizes in Ontario

Ontario students need smaller classes, not another EQAO review. By @ricardotranjan.bsky.social @ccpa-on.bsky.social #onted www.policyalternatives.ca/news-researc...

06.03.2026 17:01 πŸ‘ 19 πŸ” 13 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
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Undermining public trust is a game plan for privatization, not better outcomes for students. The $6.35Billion funding gap won’t be fixed by cutting trustees. Democracy is not outdated! STOP - get stakeholders to the table, find real solutions for students and the public good. #onpoli #MakeTheCall

21.02.2026 14:48 πŸ‘ 2 πŸ” 0 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
From: Harbord CI Parent Council
Attn: Minister Calandra
Cc: Premier Ford, Leader of the Official Opposition Marit Stiles, MPP Pasma, MPP Fraser, MPP Bell, Trustee Williams
Dear Minister Calandra,
We, the Harbord Cl School Advisory Council, are writing to express our concern regarding the changes to public education being proposed by your government. We are deeply concerned at the erosion of our democratic rights and silencing of parent voices through the take-over of our school boards and threats to eliminate the role of trustee throughout the province.
As a School Council, our purpose is:
through the active participation of parents, to improve pupil achievement and to enhance the accountability of the education system to parents. (O. Reg. 612/00, s. 2(1). Education Act Ontario Regulation 612/00)
As Minister of Education, your purpose is:
to provide students with the opportunity to realize their potential and develop into highly skilled, knowledgeable, caring citizens who contribute to their society (2009, c25, s. 1.)
High-quality, fully funded and equitable public education with our democratically elected Trustees is what we demand because it is what our kids deserve. Specifically, we want in your response:
β€’ A clear explanation of the fiscal mismanagement you identified to place the TDSB
under supervision
β€’ A clear roadmap for the TDSB to be taken out of supervision, with Trustees returned to their elected positions, as soon as possible.

From: Harbord CI Parent Council Attn: Minister Calandra Cc: Premier Ford, Leader of the Official Opposition Marit Stiles, MPP Pasma, MPP Fraser, MPP Bell, Trustee Williams Dear Minister Calandra, We, the Harbord Cl School Advisory Council, are writing to express our concern regarding the changes to public education being proposed by your government. We are deeply concerned at the erosion of our democratic rights and silencing of parent voices through the take-over of our school boards and threats to eliminate the role of trustee throughout the province. As a School Council, our purpose is: through the active participation of parents, to improve pupil achievement and to enhance the accountability of the education system to parents. (O. Reg. 612/00, s. 2(1). Education Act Ontario Regulation 612/00) As Minister of Education, your purpose is: to provide students with the opportunity to realize their potential and develop into highly skilled, knowledgeable, caring citizens who contribute to their society (2009, c25, s. 1.) High-quality, fully funded and equitable public education with our democratically elected Trustees is what we demand because it is what our kids deserve. Specifically, we want in your response: β€’ A clear explanation of the fiscal mismanagement you identified to place the TDSB under supervision β€’ A clear roadmap for the TDSB to be taken out of supervision, with Trustees returned to their elected positions, as soon as possible.

Just sent a letter to Minister Calandra from our school parent council demanding a clear roadmap for when the TDSB will be taken out of supervision with Trustees returned to their role. Parents should express their concern before it's too late! #topoli #onpoli #onted

27.01.2026 15:35 πŸ‘ 15 πŸ” 10 πŸ’¬ 1 πŸ“Œ 2
A rectangular graphic with a dark blue background and a white centre panel. In the middle of the white panel, bold blue text reads β€œHindu Heritage Month.” Thin coloured lines, green, blue, orange, and purple, appear along the top and bottom edges of the white panel.

A rectangular graphic with a dark blue background and a white centre panel. In the middle of the white panel, bold blue text reads β€œHindu Heritage Month.” Thin coloured lines, green, blue, orange, and purple, appear along the top and bottom edges of the white panel.

We proudly recognize Hindu Heritage Month in November. This year’s theme is Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu (β€œMay All Be Happy”).

Learn more: bit.ly/4hA0KZ2

01.11.2025 13:03 πŸ‘ 1 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 1 πŸ“Œ 0
A rectangular graphic with a dark blue background and a white centre panel. In the middle of the white panel, bold blue text reads β€œIndigenous Education Month.” Thin coloured lines, green, blue, orange, and purple, appear along the top and bottom edges of the white panel.

A rectangular graphic with a dark blue background and a white centre panel. In the middle of the white panel, bold blue text reads β€œIndigenous Education Month.” Thin coloured lines, green, blue, orange, and purple, appear along the top and bottom edges of the white panel.

We proudly recognize Indigenous Education Month in November. This month is an important reminder to centre First Nations, MΓ©tis and Inuit perspectives, voices, histories, and contemporary realities in classrooms.

Learn more: bit.ly/4qAF4A2

01.11.2025 13:06 πŸ‘ 2 πŸ” 2 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
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PollinateTO Grants PollinateTO grant applications are now open. Register for an information session and submit an application online by October 21. Grants of up to $5,000 are available to support community-led projects ...

Turn your green ideas into action! You can now apply for up to $5,000 to create pollinator-friendly spaces in your school community.

Learn more: www.toronto.ca/services-pay...

11.09.2025 19:18 πŸ‘ 3 πŸ” 2 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
An image with a dark blue background and a white center strip. The text in the white strip reads, "Yom Kippur" in bold, dark blue letters. The edges of the white strip are bordered with thin lines of green, blue, orange, and purple colours.

An image with a dark blue background and a white center strip. The text in the white strip reads, "Yom Kippur" in bold, dark blue letters. The edges of the white strip are bordered with thin lines of green, blue, orange, and purple colours.

Wishing our Jewish community an easy fast as Yom Kippur begins this evening. G’mar Chatimah Tovah!

01.10.2025 20:29 πŸ‘ 2 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
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Somali Heritage Month – October 2025

We are proud to recognize Somali Heritage Month this October. This year’s theme, Iskaashato ma kufto, is a Somali proverb that emphasizes the importance of unity and mutual support.

Learn more: www.tdsb.on.ca/home/ctl/Det...

01.10.2025 13:41 πŸ‘ 2 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
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Latin-America History Month – October 2025

We are proud to recognize Latin-America History Month this October. This year’s theme, Our Journey Continues, Abriendo Caminos, highlights the resilience, strength, and cultural pride that continue to carry communities forward.

Learn more: www.tdsb.on.ca/home/ctl/Det...

01.10.2025 13:38 πŸ‘ 1 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
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Islamic Heritage Month – October 2025

We are proud to recognize Islamic Heritage Month this October. This year’s theme, Rooted in Δͺmān (faith), Rising in Amāl (hope), invites students, staff, and community members to reflect on the strength of faith and the power of purposeful action.

Learn more: www.tdsb.on.ca/home/ctl/Det...

01.10.2025 13:36 πŸ‘ 4 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
Children in a classroom sit around a table examining natural objects like rocks and shells. An educator guides them as they use magnifying glasses.

Children in a classroom sit around a table examining natural objects like rocks and shells. An educator guides them as they use magnifying glasses.

An educator stands and speaks into a microphone in a well-lit classroom or lecture hall, engaging with a student seated in the front row.

An educator stands and speaks into a microphone in a well-lit classroom or lecture hall, engaging with a student seated in the front row.

Three people are in a kitchen, with two wearing aprons and one wearing a black cap. They are gathered around a counter with cooking utensils, including a green cutting board with sliced vegetables, a bottle of olive oil, and pink oven mitts.

Three people are in a kitchen, with two wearing aprons and one wearing a black cap. They are gathered around a counter with cooking utensils, including a green cutting board with sliced vegetables, a bottle of olive oil, and pink oven mitts.

A group of children are hugging an educator in a gymnasium.

A group of children are hugging an educator in a gymnasium.

🍏 On this #WorldTeachersDay, let's celebrate the educators who inspire, motivate, and guide us toward a brighter future. Thank you for everything you do.

05.10.2025 15:23 πŸ‘ 2 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
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MusiCounts MusiCounts, Canada's music education charity, believes music can transform the lives of young people.

🎢 Music helps students build confidence, creativity, and connection. Schools can now apply for up to $20,000 in funding for instruments, equipment, and resources.

Apply here: musicounts.ca/en/programs/...

07.10.2025 19:34 πŸ‘ 2 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
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Ontarians reject Ford government overreach: majority support elected trustees A new province-wide poll commissioned by the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO) shows that twice as many Ontarians want to keep elected school board trustees (49 per cent) as want to el...

"Twice as many Ontarians want to keep elected school board trustees (49 per cent) as want to eliminate elected trustees (24 per cent). Support for elected trustees climbs to 59 per cent among parents with school-aged children."

www.etfo.ca/news-publica...

12.10.2025 02:02 πŸ‘ 8 πŸ” 3 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
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I’m a School Trustee, and Doug Ford Wants to Eliminate My Job | The Walrus What parents will lose: no one to answer their emails, fight for safe crosswalks, hold the system to account

Thanks to @thewalrus.ca for agreeing to publish my thoughts on the proposed elimination of school trustees in Ontario.

#OntEd

thewalrus.ca/im-a-school-...

08.10.2025 17:10 πŸ‘ 26 πŸ” 9 πŸ’¬ 2 πŸ“Œ 4
Promotional graphic for the Ontario Universities' Fair (OUF) listing participating universities.

Promotional graphic for the Ontario Universities' Fair (OUF) listing participating universities.

πŸ“Œ Students, mark your calendars! The Ontario Universities’ Fair is returning on September 27 & 28 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

Learn more: www.ouevents.ca

09.09.2025 20:07 πŸ‘ 3 πŸ” 2 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 1
Three students lying on the grass, reading a book outdoors together.

Three students lying on the grass, reading a book outdoors together.

πŸ“š Unlock the magic of reading early! From phonics to comprehension, we've created a roadmap to help every child develop a solid foundation in reading.

Explore our guide: www.tdsb.on.ca/earlyliteracy

08.07.2025 16:40 πŸ‘ 1 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
A group of four people, three sitting on the floor and one standing, are in a hallway. They are pointing at small model cars placed on the floor in front of them.

A group of four people, three sitting on the floor and one standing, are in a hallway. They are pointing at small model cars placed on the floor in front of them.

A group of five people standing indoors, each holding a uniquely decorated birdhouse. The background shows a classroom setting with shelves and a projection screen.

A group of five people standing indoors, each holding a uniquely decorated birdhouse. The background shows a classroom setting with shelves and a projection screen.

Three individuals wearing blue shirts and black aprons stand in a kitchen holding baked goods. A muffin tray is on the counter in front of them, and the background includes kitchen equipment, a fire extinguisher, and a wall clock.

Three individuals wearing blue shirts and black aprons stand in a kitchen holding baked goods. A muffin tray is on the counter in front of them, and the background includes kitchen equipment, a fire extinguisher, and a wall clock.

A group of students in a kitchen classroom are gathered around a stainless steel table, working on a cooking project. Various ingredients such as flour, oil, and spices are spread out on the table. One student is pouring flour into a measuring cup while another scoops an ingredient from a bowl. The students are wearing aprons.

A group of students in a kitchen classroom are gathered around a stainless steel table, working on a cooking project. Various ingredients such as flour, oil, and spices are spread out on the table. One student is pouring flour into a measuring cup while another scoops an ingredient from a bowl. The students are wearing aprons.

This summer, Western Technical-Commercial School is welcoming incoming Grade 9 students to a STEAM-focused program where they’re developing real-world skills, exploring career pathways in the #skilledtrades, and earning a high school credit before the school year begins!

15.07.2025 18:10 πŸ‘ 2 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
A large group of people are standing on outdoor steps, raising their hands and holding certificates. The background includes trees and tall buildings with wind turbines visible.

A large group of people are standing on outdoor steps, raising their hands and holding certificates. The background includes trees and tall buildings with wind turbines visible.

Join the TDSB! We're currently #hiring experienced candidates for the following roles:
- Business Partner, People and Culture
- Manager, Professional Teaching & Learning Library
- Manager, Psychological Services

Learn more and apply now: www.tdsb.on.ca/jobpostings/...

16.07.2025 14:31 πŸ‘ 1 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
A group of five children wearing backpacks are running across a grassy field. The children are captured from behind, with trees and sunlight in the background.

A group of five children wearing backpacks are running across a grassy field. The children are captured from behind, with trees and sunlight in the background.

A backpack filled with essentials can make all the difference. With your help, every student can start the year confident and prepared.

Donate today: www.tdsb.on.ca/backpacks

17.07.2025 19:50 πŸ‘ 3 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
A group of people, some wearing aprons, are gathered around a kitchen counter in a cooking class. A chef, also wearing an apron and a black hat, is demonstrating something with a bowl. Various ingredients and kitchen tools are spread out on the counter, including containers of flour and grated cheese, measuring cups, and a recipe sheet. The background shows shelves with plates and other kitchen equipment.

A group of people, some wearing aprons, are gathered around a kitchen counter in a cooking class. A chef, also wearing an apron and a black hat, is demonstrating something with a bowl. Various ingredients and kitchen tools are spread out on the counter, including containers of flour and grated cheese, measuring cups, and a recipe sheet. The background shows shelves with plates and other kitchen equipment.

This summer, incoming Grade 9 students are getting a head start on high school through a new reach-ahead program offered at Western Technical-Commercial School, David & Mary Thomson CI, Dr. Norman Bethune CI, and Westview Centennial SS.

Learn more: bit.ly/3TMpKRO

18.07.2025 20:04 πŸ‘ 4 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
Four students standing side by side, posing for a group photo in the boardroom. Two large screens in the background display the 'Toronto District School Board' logo. There are chairs and tables arranged around the room, and two flags are visible on either side of the screens.

Four students standing side by side, posing for a group photo in the boardroom. Two large screens in the background display the 'Toronto District School Board' logo. There are chairs and tables arranged around the room, and two flags are visible on either side of the screens.

Five people seated in a semi-circle in a boardroom with two large screens displaying the 'Toronto District School Board' logo. The same logo is projected onto the floor. Two flags, including the Canadian flag, are positioned behind them.

Five people seated in a semi-circle in a boardroom with two large screens displaying the 'Toronto District School Board' logo. The same logo is projected onto the floor. Two flags, including the Canadian flag, are positioned behind them.

Today, we recognized four remarkable students who each achieved a 100% average across their top six Grade 12 courses. We heard firsthand about their paths to success and what lies ahead on their journeys. Congratulations to Andrew, Sheena, Sowmya, and Safiya!

Learn more: bit.ly/4lK4rgb

22.07.2025 18:22 πŸ‘ 1 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
A student is holding a paintbrush and dipping it into an orange paint palette. The image shows a close-up of the paint palette with various colours, including pink, yellow, green, and red.

A student is holding a paintbrush and dipping it into an orange paint palette. The image shows a close-up of the paint palette with various colours, including pink, yellow, green, and red.

🌀️ Our Summer Well-Being Guide is available in more than 20 languages! Find free activities and accessible mental health and well-being support for all ages.

Get started here: tdsb.on.ca/summerguide

29.07.2025 17:24 πŸ‘ 3 πŸ” 2 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
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A full house of all these smiling and happy volunteers!!!

11.04.2025 23:00 πŸ‘ 2 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
Six individuals are standing in a classroom. Five of them are wearing matching dark gray t-shirts with "CP-17" printed on the front, while one person is wearing a gray hoodie.

Six individuals are standing in a classroom. Five of them are wearing matching dark gray t-shirts with "CP-17" printed on the front, while one person is wearing a gray hoodie.

Last month, William Lyon Mackenzie CI’s Cybersecurity team competed at the CyberPatriot National Finals in D.C. as the only Canadian team in the mix. They placed 2nd in the Cisco Challenge and finished 6th overall out of nearly 2,900 teams.

Learn more: bit.ly/4j11w16

11.04.2025 20:15 πŸ‘ 5 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
An illustration of a woman with long black hair flowing behind her, wrapped in a white shawl with black, yellow, and blue designs. The background is red and black with subtle floral patterns. The text reads: "NIMKII-KWE AKIING (Thunder Woman on the Land) Cultural Leadership Summer Camp."

An illustration of a woman with long black hair flowing behind her, wrapped in a white shawl with black, yellow, and blue designs. The background is red and black with subtle floral patterns. The text reads: "NIMKII-KWE AKIING (Thunder Woman on the Land) Cultural Leadership Summer Camp."

This summer, First Nations, MΓ©tis, and Inuit secondary students from across the TDSB will have the opportunity to learn from Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers.

Learn more: bit.ly/41RE1QQ

24.03.2025 19:13 πŸ‘ 2 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
Illustration of a classroom desk featuring a vase with yellow flowers, a stack of two books, a red apple on top of the books, and a pair of glasses on the desk. The background is a dark green chalkboard.

Illustration of a classroom desk featuring a vase with yellow flowers, a stack of two books, a red apple on top of the books, and a pair of glasses on the desk. The background is a dark green chalkboard.

Educators, are you ready to take the next step in your teaching journey? Our newest AQ courses will help you strengthen your leadership skills and foster meaningful mentorship relationships.

Learn more and register today: www.tdsb.on.ca/aq

21.02.2025 15:14 πŸ‘ 2 πŸ” 2 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
An open book with colourful educational symbols emerges from its pages, including a rocket, an atom, a paintbrush, a magnifying glass, a beaker with liquid, an apple, and paper clips. The background is deep purple with stars.

An open book with colourful educational symbols emerges from its pages, including a rocket, an atom, a paintbrush, a magnifying glass, a beaker with liquid, an apple, and paper clips. The background is deep purple with stars.

πŸ“£ We want to hear from you! The TDSB is hosting public consultations on the Learning Opportunities Index (LOI), which helps guide how school resources are allocated.

Join an upcoming session to learn more and share your input: www.tdsb.on.ca/policyconsul...

24.02.2025 14:56 πŸ‘ 1 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
An illustration of an open book with a pen on top of a desk. A lightbulb hovers above the book. Three books and a globe are visible at the back of the desk. The background is brown with diagonal stripes.

An illustration of an open book with a pen on top of a desk. A lightbulb hovers above the book. Three books and a globe are visible at the back of the desk. The background is brown with diagonal stripes.

πŸ€” Curious about the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test? Join EQAO’s live webinar on March 6 to learn about the assessment format, access helpful resources, and hear expert tips to help your teen prepare.

Register here: bit.ly/4bskOtd

04.03.2025 15:59 πŸ‘ 1 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
An illustration of three pencils, lined paper, a protractor, and a calculator set against a blue background.

An illustration of three pencils, lined paper, a protractor, and a calculator set against a blue background.

How do #EQAO math assessments measure your child’s skills? Join our free webinar, where EQAO staff will walk you through the questions, share key insights, and offer tips to support your child’s learning.

Register here: eqao.zoom.us/webinar/regi...

03.03.2025 21:33 πŸ‘ 1 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
A cheerful, illustrated snowman wearing a dark blue top hat, matching scarf, and mittens stands in a snowy winter landscape. Snow-covered evergreen trees and rolling hills are in the background, with snowflakes falling from a light blue sky filled with soft clouds.

A cheerful, illustrated snowman wearing a dark blue top hat, matching scarf, and mittens stands in a snowy winter landscape. Snow-covered evergreen trees and rolling hills are in the background, with snowflakes falling from a light blue sky filled with soft clouds.

All TDSB schools and sites are closed today due to the weather forecast. In addition, Friday, February 14, is PA Day for all students, and Monday, February 17, is Family Day. Enjoy your first #SnowDay of the year, and we'll see you on Tuesday!

13.02.2025 11:10 πŸ‘ 81 πŸ” 35 πŸ’¬ 5 πŸ“Œ 6