Message from Our Trustee

Photo of Ed Law

February 2026

There’s a lot happening as we move into the second half of the school year, and I want to share some updates and opportunities.

Programs and Opportunities

Well done to all secondary school students who have completed their exams and are starting a new semester with new courses and teachers.

We encourage students to connect with their guidance counselors and to learn about the many secondary programs and courses available - programs that let students explore their interests, gain transferable skills and get hands-on experience that will benefit them in the future. Opportunities include earning college credits, workplace certifications, lifeguarding certifications and real on-the-job experience - all while earning high school credits.

Our elementary and secondary schools also offer a variety of clubs where students can meet peers with similar interests, take on leadership roles and try new things. Getting involved is a great way to build connections and skills.

We also regularly host events to help students and families learn about different pathways and programs and to bring communities together. Check your school newsletters and the Board calendar so you don’t miss these opportunities.

Black History Month

Throughout the Board and community, events are being held to celebrate Black History Month. We look forward to honoring the contributions of Black Canadians and creating opportunities for community to come together.

Kindergarten Registration is Open

Is your child turning 4 or 5 in 2026? Or do you know someone who is? Kindergarten helps children develop the academic and social skills they need to thrive in Grade 1 and beyond. Our skilled and caring teams of certified teachers and early childhood educators work together to support every child in a welcoming, inclusive environment. Start your journey at www.yrdsb.ca/kindergarten.

Preparing Students for the Future

As a school board, we know that it is important that we continue to evolve to meet the needs of a rapidly changing society. That includes preparing students to use artificial intelligence (AI) effectively, appropriately and safely. We are developing guidelines for educators, students and families to support responsible AI use. While AI can support student learning, it does not replace student work. We teach and encourage critical thinking and honesty when using these tools. More will be shared in the near future.

Student Trustee Elections

We are also in the middle of the student trustee elections for next school year. This is an excellent opportunity for students in Grades 5-12 to participate in the democratic process. Student trustees represent student voice at the board table, influencing discussions about policy, budget and more. The final vote takes place later in the month and students will receive an email to their GAPPs with information on candidates and how to vote.

York Region Presidents’ Council

Student Trustees work closely with the York Region Presidents’ Council. The council includes leadership from all secondary school student councils. All secondary school students are welcome to attend their meetings and receive invitations in their GAPPS email. It’s a great opportunity for students to get involved and have their voices heard.

Wishing You Success

We wish all students and families the very best as we begin this second half of the school year and look forward to spring break ahead.

I encourage you to reach out to me if you have any questions.

Ed Law

Trustee, Markham Wards 3 and 4

Welcome to the start of the second half of the school year.

Congratulations to secondary school students who have completed exams and culminating activities and are ready to start a new semester, and to elementary school students for all their hard work in the first term. I want to remind families that when report cards are available, you can now access your child’s report card through the Family Dashboard.

For students looking at course selection for next year, the Experience YRDSB pages on our website will let you explore the areas that interest you and learn more about the courses, programs and opportunities available in your secondary school.

At the end of January, we recognized Lunar New Year, commemorating the first day of the Lunar calendar. Throughout the month, we also recognized Tamil Heritage Month. In February, we recognize Black History Month, I encourage you to check the Board calendar for upcoming events to celebrate Black excellence and recognize the contributions made by Black Canadians. You can also find information about other upcoming significant dates and events for families.

The Student Trustee election process is underway for the 2025-2026 school year. Student Trustees play an essential role in our system, representing student voices at the Board table when we are making important decisions, and we greatly appreciate their contributions to our discussions. I would like to congratulate all of the students who put their names forward for the position and encourage all students in Grades 5-12 to take the time to vote.

I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank current Student Trustees Hayden Lai and Mitusaan Kugathasan and Indigenous Student Trustee Natalie Pitawanakwat for their hard work, leadership and commitment to student voice.

As a Board of Trustees, we have several important roles that affect the daily life in our schools and Board.

One of those responsibilities is to set the policies that govern the operation of schools in YRDSB. Policies cover important topics, such as assessment and evaluation, field trips, homework, dress code, caring and safe schools, health supports, student leadership and more.

We regularly review Board policies to ensure they are updated and reflect the current context, priorities and needs of our community and system. An important part of this process is inviting feedback from the community, including families. You can find a list of all policies and those currently out for comment on our Board website and I encourage you to take a look.

Trustees are also responsible for setting the Board budget. As we prepare to plan for the 2025-2026 school year budget, we will be once again reaching out to families and inviting you to share your input and feedback. Please take the time to review this information when you receive it; your voice is an important part of the process.

We are also working through the District Action Plan to reflect and align with the new Multi-Year Strategic Plan. This plan outlines how we will achieve the priorities set out in the Strategic Plan and focus on serving all students.

I wish everyone all the best as we go into the second half of the school year.

Ed Law

Trustee, Markham Wards 3 and 4