Director's Update to Families - Summer Break Edition

Dear DDSB Families,

Congratulations to students and their families as we recognize the achievement of another year of learning! Many graduation and completion ceremonies have taken place this June, celebrating significant milestones for students who have completed another leg of their education journey. While big milestones and accomplishments are of course worth celebrating, we also want to commend all our students for showing up consistently and doing their best. The past 194 school days have been full of challenges, growth, and some fun for each of us – staff, students, and families alike – and I hope that when you reflect on the 2024-25 school year, you are proud of all the positive steps you have taken toward achieving your personal goals.

As summer break begins and student routines shift, it’s important to recognize that this transition can bring both excitement and challenges for young people. If you notice changes in your child’s behavior or they express concern, consider the supportive strategies and resources provided on our website.

Looking ahead to the fall, if you are interested in getting involved in the DDSB community and supporting your local School Community Council (SCC), consider joining our Parent Involvement Committee (PIC) for the 2025-26 school year!

If your family has a little one starting Kindergarten in the fall and you missed any of the Great Beginnings webinars, you can check them out anytime on our website. Also, students who are starting high school in September may be interested in the DDSB 2025 Getting Ready for High School program starting in August. The registration deadline is August 8^th at noon. Please visit our website for more information.

I want to extend a sincere thank you to our students, families, and volunteers for their efforts to make a positive impact on our school communities – whether it was sharing the gift of a smile or a helping hand in gestures large and small – your thoughtfulness, support, noticing, gratitude, affirming, and kindness made a difference.

Whatever your family is celebrating this summer, on behalf of all DDSB staff, we wish you a happy and healthy break ahead.

Take good care,

Camille Williams-Taylor

Director of Education

Durham District School Board