ADDENDUMTHE REGULAR MEETING OF THE

TORONTO CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARDPUBLIC SESSION

 Michael Del Grande, Chair                               Nancy Crawford, Vice-Chair

 

 

Thursday, March 26, 20157:00 P.M.

Pages

9. Presentations

9.c Monthly Report from Student Trustee(s) 1

Page 1 of 3

15. Matters Recommended by Statutory Committees of the Board

15.a SEAC

15.a.1 Minutes of the Special Meeting of SEAC heldMarch 11, 2015

2 - 4

1. SEAC recommends to the board that no furtherreductions be made to Special Education and thatnot only should current funding be sustained butan increase be considered to meet the augmentedneeds of students in the TCDSB with SpecialEducation requirements.

2 a)      SEAC recommends to the Board that theMinistry be asked why they are forcing fundingcuts on Special Education when they are still goingthrough the ministry review. 

b)  SEAC recommends to the Board that theMinistry be asked why the funds are being re-distributed

3. that SEAC recommends that the Board providethe Committee with results of the survey andcopies of presentations from the delegations.

15.a.2 Draft Minutes of the Regular Meeting held March25, 2015

5 - 9

17. Reports For Information

17.c Special Education Grant Composition 10 - 11

18. Communications

18.b From Antonella Totino, regarding budget cuts to the ISPprogram

12 - 13

18.c From Mario Bernardo to TCDSB Full Board on behalf ofthe Unionized Workgroups

14 - 21

Page 2 of 3

18.d Pauline Low, regarding budget cuts to LD Students 22 - 24

18.e Gina Vincent, representing Guidance Counsellorsregarding budget cuts

25 - 27

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TCDSB Student Trustee Monthly Report: March 2015

1. OSTA-AECO

Attended the Ontario Student Trustees Association’s Board Council Conference in

Ottawa from February 27th to March 1st. Here, we networked with fellow student

trustees from across the province, shared best practices, and shared ideas for events

and initiatives to implement for the remainder of the year. We participated in

workshops regarding international education and opportunities for schooling abroad.

Additionally, we finalized ideas and agendas for the board-wide mass under the

initiative of the Catholic Board Council of Ontario.

2. Voices That Challenge Catholic Student Leadership Conference

Held annually at St. Michael’s College, we hosted over 400 students from every

secondary school in the board, with keynote speakers, engaging workshops, and a talent

show featuring Mary Ward’s dance crew. Our keynote speakers for the event were Free

the Children’s Spencer West and local charity organizer and speaker Paul Burke, who

spoke about the Catholic virtues of charity and equality, sharing with us his experiences

working with the homeless and refugees in both Toronto and Europe. The conference

was a huge success and many thanks are due to all board staff who gave us their

support.

3. Catholic Education Reception at Queens Park

On Tuesday, March 10th, we attended a reception at Queens Park alongside Trustee

Andrachuk, wherein we met with provincial MPs and other educational officials to

celebrate the success of Catholic education in Ontario.

4. Student Trustee Elections

With the successful passing of the recent motion wherein a 2-year trustee term will be

implemented in the years to come, we went forth with our elections for this year.

Currently, we are expecting over 10 candidates from both grade 10 and 11 students

across the board, and we will be beginning campaigning starting Tuesday March 31st,

with the final speeches and voting procedures taking place on April 21st. We look

forward to finding suiting successors for the following year(s).

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1

MINUTES OF THE

SPECIAL MEETING OF THE

SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE

HELD WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2015

PUBLIC SESSION

PRESENT:

M. Taylor, Chair

R. Del Grosso

D. Imbrogno

J. MacKenzie

S. Mastronardi

M. Pugh - Teleconference

G. Romanino

M. Taylor

G. Webster

Gary Poole

Paul DeCock

Anne Marie Cassin

John Wilhelm

P. Stachiw

S. Menary

A. Coke

Linda Maselli-Jackman

Don Reid

Odilia Pariselli

Rachelina Macchia

Lalita Fernandes, Recording Secretary

G.Mak

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MOVED by John Mackenzie and Giselle Romanino, that the agenda, as amended,

be approved.

CARRIED

Julie Mazzuca-Peter, representing the Association of Professional Student Services

Personnel (APSSP), addressed the Committee regarding budget cuts to Special

Education.

MOVED by Glen Webster, seconded by Sandra Mastronardi, that the presentation

by Julie Mazzuca-Peter, representing the Association of Professional Student

Services Personnel (APSSP) regarding the Budget Deficit Reduction Report be

received.

CARRIED

MOVED by Dario Imbrogno, seconded by John Mackenzie, that based on careful

consideration and needs analysis, SEAC recommends to the board that no further

reductions be made to Special Education and that not only should current funding

be sustained but an increase be considered to meet the augmented needs of students

in the TCDSB with Special Education requirements.

CARRIED.

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MOVED by Rosanna Del Grosso, seconded by Dario Imbrogno, that item 10b) be

adopted as follows:

10b) Special Education Budget

1. SEAC recommends to the Board that the Ministry be asked

why they are forcing funding cuts on Special Education when

they are still going through the ministry review.

2. SEAC recommends to the Board that the Ministry be asked

why the funds are being re-distributed.

CARRIED.

MOVED by Sandra Mastronardi, seconded by Giselle Romanino that SEAC

recommends that the Board provide the Committee with results of the survey and

copies of presentations from the delegations.

CARRIED.

MOVED by John Mackenzie, seconded by Giselle Romanino, that the meeting

adjourn.

CARRIED.

________________ ____________

S E C R E T A R Y C H A I R

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1

MINUTES OF THE

SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE

HELD WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

PUBLIC SESSION

PRESENT: Marilyn Taylor, Chair

Rosanna Del Grosso

Dario Imbrogno

Sandra Mastronardi

Ashleigh Molloy

Mary Pugh

Giselle Romanino

Raul Vomisescu

Glenn Webster

Trustee G. Tanuan, Vice-Chair

Trustee A. Andrachuk

Trustee M. Del Grande

Trustee N. Crawford

Trustee A. Kennedy

A. Gauthier

G. Poole

F. Piddisi

C. Fernandes

Paul DeCock

Maria Kokai

A. Coke

P. Stachiew

L. Maselli-Jackman

J. Wilhelm

S. Menary

D. Reid

O. Pariselli

R. Macchia

A.M. Cassin

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2

Lalita Fernandes, Recording Secretary

G.Mak

MOVED by Trustee Andrachuk, Seconded by Trustee Tanuan, that the agenda, as

amended, be approved.

CARRIED

MOVED by Marilyn Taylor, seconded by Trustee Tanuan, that the minutes of the

Regular Meeting held February 18, 2015 and the Special Meeting held March 11,

2015, be approved.

CARRIED

Betty Sedej addressed the Committee regarding budget cuts.

MOVED by Rosanna Del Grosso, seconded by Sandra Mastronardi that the

presentation by Betty Sedej, regarding budget cuts be received.

CARRIED

Geoff Feldman addressed the Committee regarding budget cuts.

MOVED by Trustee Andrachuk, seconded by Rosanna Del Grosso that the

presentation by Geoff Feldman, regarding budget cuts be received and referred to

staff to check with legal counsel if the legislation would permit a representative

from SEAC to be a member of CPIC.

CARRIED

Luisa Scala addressed the Committee regarding Secondary Gifted Programs

MOVED by Ann Andrachuk, seconded by Mary Pugh that the presentation by

Luisa Scala, regarding Secondary Gifted Programs be received.

CARRIED

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Gillian Vivona, representing TSU, addressed the Committee regarding budget cuts

to Special Education

MOVED by Trustee Andrachuk, seconded by Glenn Webster that the presentation

by Gillian Vivona, regarding budget cuts to Special Education.

CARRIED

Susan Menary and the Autism Team, made a presentation to Committee regarding

the Autism Awareness Event on April 1, 2015

MOVED by Trustee Tanuan, seconded by Rosanna Del Grosso, that the

presentation by Susan Menary and the Autism Team regarding the Autism

Awareness Event on April 1st be received.

CARRIED

MOVED by Sandra Mastronardi and seconded by Trustee Tanuan, that the

following items be received:

9a) Transfer Payment Agreement - 2015 SEAC Conference

and

9e) SEAC Conference - All Stream Conference Centre.

CARRIED.

Marilyn Taylor, Glenn Webster, Ashleigh Malloy, Sandra Mastronardi and Frank

Piddisi have registered to attend the SEAC Conference.

MOVED by Sandra Mastronardi and seconded by Trustee Tanuan, that the

following items be received:

9b) Special Education Companion 2002 (except gifted)

CARRIED.

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4

MOVED by Trustee Andrachuk and seconded by Trustee Tanuan, that the

following monthly report from Superintendent of Special Services for March, 2015

be received:

• World Down Syndrome Day!

• Celebrated March 21, 2015 with the TCSDB joining the world in

bringing awareness to the gifts of our students with Down Syndrome

and the many staff, families and friends who love and support them.

• Links and celebration ideas were presented.

• Psychology Department

• “Fun Friends” • Offered 2 one-day training sessions (March 9, 10) to Early

Learning Teachers and ECEs in the “Fun FRIENDS” classroom based resiliency program that they will deliver in

their JK/SK classes.

• This is a play-based prevention program that supports the

development of self-regulation and coping skills, pro-social

behavior and responsibility for self and others.

• Autism Services Department

• In recognition of Autism Awareness Day, which is on April 2nd, a

number of events have been planned. These include:

• A board wide dance in recognition of Autism Awareness took

place on March 11th. Schools enthusiastically participated and

helped to raise awareness of Autism in our schools

• On April 1st, an evening in honour of Autism Awareness will

take place. The theme of the evening is Nurturing Gifts. The

keynote speaker is Jeannine Dupuy from Famous People

Players. There will also be opportunities for students with

Autism in TCDSB to showcase their gifts and talents.

• On April 1st, flags in honour of Autism Awareness will be

raised at the CEC and at our TCDSB schools. Flags have been

provided with support from Autism Ontario. A proclamation in

recognition of Autism Awareness will also be issued by the

Director and Chair of the Board.

• On April 9th an Autism Information session will take place at St.

Aidan Catholic School from 7 – 9 PM. A number of agencies

providing Autism services as well as representatives from different

government ministries will be in attendance.

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5

Gifted Programs

• Journey Conference coming up on April 21st and 22

nd for our

elementary students.

• This year it is returning to OISE/UT. Keynote TBD.

Special Education Grant Summary Explanation

• See separate handout

CARRIED.

MOVED by Rosanna Del Grosso and seconded by Trustee Andrachuk, that the

following items be received:

9c) Gifted Program - St. Francis of Assisi

and

9d) An invitation The 5th

Annual Autism Awareness Evening

CARRIED.

Trustee Kennedy declared an interest in item 12a) Revised Structural Budget

Deficit Reduction Opportunities as her family members are employees of the

board. Trustee Kennedy indicated that she would neither vote nor participate in the

discussion of the item.

MOVED by Rosanna Del Grosso and seconded by Trustee Tanuan, that the

following item, be received:

12a) Revised Structural Budget Deficit Reduction Opportunities.

CARRIED.

MOVED by Glenn Webster, seconded by Trustee Andrachuk, that the meeting

adjourn.

CARRIED.

________________ ____________

S E C R E T A R Y C H A I R

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JK & SK Gr 1-3 Gr 4-8 Secondary TotalSpecial Education GrantsTCDSB Average Daily Enrolment 11,434.76 18,031.80 30,774.01 28,683.70 88,924.27

Special Education Per Pupil Amount (SEPPA)SEPPA Per Pupil Amounts 933.42$ 933.42$ 716.98$ 473.65$

Total Special Education Per Pupil Amounts (SEPPA) 10,673,434 16,831,243 22,064,350 13,586,035 63,155,061

Special Education Equipment Amount (SEA)SEA Per Pupil Amount 36.10$ 36.10$ 36.10$ 36.10$ SEA Per Pupil Total 412,806 650,966 1,110,973 1,035,510 3,210,255 SEA Claim based Amount 474,789 SEA Board Amount 10,000

3,695,044

High Needs Amount (HNA) HNA Per Pupil Amount 604.59$ 604.59$ 604.59$ 604.59$ HNA Grant 6,913,342 10,901,846 18,605,659 17,341,878 53,762,724

(1,728,335) (2,725,461) (4,651,415) (4,335,470) (13,440,681)

High Needs Grant before Measures of Variability 5,185,006 8,176,384 13,954,244 13,006,409 40,322,043

HNA Measure of Variability Calculation - Table Amount (New in 2014-15) 11,504,382 HNA Collaboration & Integration (New in 2014-15) 450,000 Sub-total HNA Measures of Variability and Collaboration & Integration 11,954,382 Total High Needs Amount (HNA excluding Special Incidence Portion) 52,276,425

(1,486,299) X 4yrs = (5,945,196)

Special Incidence Portion (SIP) Applications based on student needs 2,473,498 Section 23 Funding 2,688,004

2014-15 REVISED ESTIMATES SPECIAL EDUCATION GRANT

Total SEA Funding for Special Needs Equipment

25% of HNA moved to Measures of Variability Calculation 4 Year Phase-in beginning in 2014-15 (1st Year)

HNA amount redistributed to other school boards (13.440M - 11.954M) =

Page 10 of 27

Behaviour Expertise GrantBehaviour Expertise Board Amount 84,213 Behaviour Expertise Per Pupil Amount 2.82$ 2.82$ 2.82$ 2.82$ Behaviour Expertise Amount 32,246 50,850 86,783 80,888 250,766 Total Behaviour Expertise Grant 334,979 Total Special Education Grant before transfer from Foundation and Q&E Grants 124,623,011

Transfer from Foundation and Qualifications & Experience (Q&E) Grants

5,464,694

Total Special Education Grant 130,087,706

NEW HIGH NEEDS AMOUNT (MINISTRY TECHNICAL PAPER 2014-15)

● introduce a High Needs Base Amount for Collaboration and Integration beginning in 2014–15, which will provide all school boards with a minimum level of base high needs funding.

The 2014–15 school year is the beginning of a four-year transition to a new funding model for the HNA Allocation. The new model better reflects the variation among boards with respect to students with special education needs and boards' abilities to meet those needs, thus making the HNA Allocation more fair and equitable. The transition to the new model will:

● eliminate the historical HNA per-pupil amounts over a four-year period, and the transitional HNA Stabilization in 2014–15, while repurposing the funding;

● use the repurposing/redistribution of funds to gradually increase the proportion of funding that is distributed through both the Special Education Statistical Prediction Model (SESPM), and the HNA Measures of Variability Amount (MOV), which were introduced in 2010–11 and 2009–10, respectively; and

Transfer from Foundation and Q&E for Full-time enrolment in ISP classes (integration reduces this transfer)

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Hello, Ms. Fernandes

It has been recommended to me to send in a delegation for trustees to refer to during the Board's Thursday consultation meeting regarding proposed

cuts to programs, specifically for me, ISP programs. The recommendation to write to you comes from Jo-Ann Davis, trustee. Please see below.

My son is currently enrolled in an ISP at St. Francis of Assisi School. I transferred him from another school so that he would specifically receive

intensive support for his educational needs. He has made significant gains this year and is settling in appropriately, given the change of schools.

I am horrified that so little consideration has been given to the specific

needs of children within these programs. My son was within the mainstream classroom and he did not thrive, mainly attributed to the lack of intensive

support as well as insufficient training and support for the classroom teacher. Additionally, the pace of the curriculum far outpaced my son's

learning style. I therefore, strongly believe that by removing or REDUCING this intensive

support, that my child is being discriminated against as his learning needs will not be met. The motto, No Child Will Be Left Behind needs to include ALL CHILDREN, not soley children who are "able" to be independently successful. By decreasing this program, MY CHILD WILL BE LEFT BEHIND, whereas other children's needs will continue to be supported and met. Where is the

fairness and logic in such considerations???? I oppose this proposed deficit. Please be our support and advocate for all of our children.

I will continue to advocate for my child!!!!!

Regards, Antonella Totino > From: jo-ann.davis@tcdsb.org > To: atotino@bell.net > Subject: RE: Hello, Ms. Davis > Date: Tue, 24 Mar 2015 01:29:57 +0000 > > Dear Ms Totino >

Page 12 of 27

> Many thanks for writing - I can assure you that I have been asking MANY questions about the proposed cuts to our ISP Special Eduction programs, as well as other programming like 5th block and Msgr Fraser and have been identifying alternate sources of cuts which do not impact our students in the classroom (e.g. 5% from all central departments - which staff have taken on board and added to their latest list of recommended cuts - over $2million in savings). I have also asked staff for information regarding their proposed ISP delivery model - apparently this model was rolled-out at Dufferin-Peel and I've asked for someone to attend this Thursday's board that can speak to trustees on its roll-out and effectiveness. > > There have been many delegations to trustees for the last several weeks and most have been from parents with children in our ISP program. Given that decisions made begin at this Thursday's board, I would recommend that you submit a written delegation before then which will be distributed to all trustees. The Recording Secretary's e-mail address is lalita.fernandes@tcdsb.org. > > Regards, > Jo-Ann > > Jo-Ann Davis, Trustee > www.jo-anndavis.ca > Twitter: @Jo_AnnDavis

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TCDSB Board Meeting ● Thursday, March 26, 2015 ● 7:00 p.m.

Presentation to the TCDSB Board of Trustees

Thursday, March 26, 2015

Addressing the TCDSB In-Year and Accumulated Deficit

And Proposals for Deficit Reduction

Mario Bernardo Julian Farinha Julie Mazzuca-Peter President, TECT-OECTA President, CUPE 1280 President, APSSP-Toronto Lina Naccarato Felix Salazar Pina Servello President, CUPE 1328 President, OECTA-TOTL President, CUPE 3155 Dave Szollosy President, OECTA - TSU

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TCDSB Board Meeting ● Thursday, March 26, 2015 ● 7:00 p.m.

Presentation to the TCDSB Board of Trustees Thursday, March 26, 2015

Addressing the TCDSB In-Year and Accumulated Deficit and Proposals for Deficit Reduction

Mario Bernardo Julian Farinha Julie Mazzuca-Peter President, OECTA -TECT President, CUPE 1280 President, APSSP-Toronto Lina Naccarato Felix Salazar Pina Servello President, CUPE 1328 President, OECTA-TOTL President, CUPE 3155 Dave Szollosy President, OECTA - TSU

As the elected presidents representing over 10, 0000 unionized employees of this Board, it is with great sadness and regret that we are unable to speak directly to the democratically elected representatives of our Catholic community. As you are well aware, a majority of Trustees voted to take away our right to delegate any further on the budget process. By denying us the right to communicate and interact directly with the Board of Trustees at this pivotal public meeting, we have effectively been silenced. From the onset, we have repeatedly signalled that we want to be meaningful partners in this process. We want the Board’s budget balanced. However, in balancing the budget, we believe our input will provide choices that will lessen the negative impact on the well-being and learning outcomes of our students. We believe you will make the best decisions when you are offered the greatest number of choices and options. That is why we have repeatedly requested opportunities for authentic and meaningful input so that we can fulfil our goal of being constructive partners in this process. The GSNs will be announced five days earlier than was expected, and only hours before you deliberate, on March 26. Through TECT’s offer of a collective agreement variance, surplus notices do not have to be issued until April 15th

. We respectfully ask that you utilize this additional time to consult and seek further input from all stakeholders. On November 26, 2014, the Director and the Chair pledged to make this the most comprehensive consultation ever undertaken by our Board. By utilizing this additional time, you will clearly signal your commitment to fulfill this pledge. Our students deserve no less. When senior management first brought forward its report entitled, Structural Budget Deficit Reduction Opportunities, on February 27, 2015, it identified a need to find reductions of $42.55 million. In that same report, exactly $42.55 million were proposed in cuts. In the absence of alternatives being presented, prioritizing is impossible. Through consultation and dialogue and

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TCDSB Board Meeting ● Thursday, March 26, 2015 ● 7:00 p.m.

through the work of senior management, we have collectively brought to light more constructive opportunities for savings for your consideration. We believe that this would afford you the opportunity, as Trustees, to better fulfill your mandate of setting the priorities of the Board. We strongly encourage the Trustees of the TCDSB to clearly establish a prioritization for all proposed cuts; first to those areas that are non-personnel and non-salary items so that cuts in direct service to our students are options of last resort on the list of budget reductions. It is our understanding that the Ministry of Education has provided the TCDSB latitude to address its structural deficit and accumulated debt over three years. We encourage the Trustees to accept this offer and avoid dealing with the deficit in one year. We believe expenditure reductions should be spread out in a manner that will minimize cuts that will negatively affect student learning and compromise student safety. We hope that through continued consultation with senior management, and the finance team, we can continue to offer concrete options for you to consider. We are aware that some of our suggestions may not be accepted but we offer them in good faith.

Senior management indicated that they would act on the following suggestion (in italics) made through an earlier delegation: [The Board] should approach their third party providers, and, given the financial situation, ask for temporary and/or long term adjustments to costs. We believe that these providers would work with the Board to maintain relationships. Reviewing the Board reports, it is unclear as to whether this recommendation has been acted upon. The Trustees should follow-up with staff to ensure that this recommendation was given serious consideration.

We continue to assert that the Board must look at the over expenditures in transportation. The most recent proposal from the Board does not seem to reduce the transportation budget in any significant way. Further to this budget line, statements were made by Senior management, that the lower price of oil does not really impact this budget line given the Board’s reliance on diesel fuel; however, diesel fuel has seen a reduction in price of approximately 20% from September 2014 to January 2015. Perhaps a 20% reduction in fuel costs should be factored into next year’s budget.

It also does not appear that there have been any significant reductions in the areas of technology. TSU has made repeated recommendations to senior staff that there could be significant savings accrued if we were to abandon the seriously problematic Web Marks program for completing report cards and adopt one of the available licensed programs, compatible with Trillium, that come with complete IT support.

There are opportunities to reduce costs in regard to the grievance arbitration process by working closely with the various union groups to find settlement processes that allow for resolution at the lowest level possible. We believe the savings could be substantive. For example, if each grievance currently at arbitration stage with TSU were to take only one day, that alone would cost the Board $300,000, not including staff time and resources or any compensation ordered. Yet we know from experience that, in most instances, the parties arrive at the mediation centre and resolve the grievance without the participation of the

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TCDSB Board Meeting ● Thursday, March 26, 2015 ● 7:00 p.m.

arbitrator at all. Unfortunately, at that point the Board has already incurred the costs for the mediation centre and the arbitrator.

We believe that given the potential budget shortfalls faced by this Board, the Ministry may be open to the suggestion of reducing Professional Development funding in areas that Senior Management will contend are non-discretionary. There is a significant current allocation of almost $2.7 million for Professional Development under the heading of Student Success such as:

o Literacy o Numeracy o Pathways o Catholic Community Culture and Caring o Student Success Teams

Renting empty school spaces to outside agencies (uncosted)

The Board is proceeding with an expensive and politically charged expropriation of properties in order to build a new site for St. Joseph Morrow Park. This is being undertaken when the TDSB is closing schools that would meet the needs of moving a single gender secondary school (which is not geographically based). We suggest halting the expropriations and negotiate a lease with the TDSB for the school re-location.

We recommend cancelling the planned expansion of the International Baccalaureate program to McGuigan, as well as winding down the programs where it is currently operating.

We recommend amalgamating the North and East field centres and seeking tenants for the available space.

We would recommend the postponement of the creation of the Ombudsman position.

We agree with the 5% reduction in non-classroom expenditures, but would like to see the breakdown applied more explicitly in order to ascertain is some areas included under this umbrella could be reduced further.

We are confident that the Board of Trustees and Senior Management will be as diligent as we have attempted to be in our efforts to identify potential savings, from all areas of the budget, to lessen the impact of these proposed cuts and to protect essential programmes for our children.

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TCDSB Board Meeting ● Thursday, March 26, 2015 ● 7:00 p.m.

CHRONOLOGY OF EVENTS November 7, 2014 – March 26, 2015

We would ask that you review the attached chronology of events outlining the consultation process that has taken place. BOARD ANNOUNCES SHORTFALL – Early November 2014 In early November 2014, the leadership of the various TCDSB unionized workgroups were first informed by the Director that, instead of an in-year surplus, the Board had actually realized an in-year deficit of $9.6 million for the 2013-2014 fiscal year. BOARD PROMISES COMPREHENSIVE CONSULTATION – November 26, 2014 Less than three weeks later, on November 26, 2014, in an Open Letter to the TCDSB Community signed by Director of Education, Angela Gauthier, and then Chair of the Board, Trustee Davis, indicated that “Collaboration and consultation will continue to be our focus to ensure all TCDSB stakeholders are part of our future budget preparations.” The letter promised that, “Consultation plans for the 2015-2016 (sic) will be the most comprehensive ever undertaken, to guarantee all of our TCDSB stakeholders can be part of the solution as we move forward.” FIRST CONFIRMATION OF $42.55 MILLION SHORTFALL AFTER THREE MONTHS – February 27, 2015 Despite the pledge made by the Director and the Chair of the Board, it was almost three full months later, on Friday, February 27, 2015 that the leadership of the TCDSB unionized workgroups were able to view for the first time, a documented accounting identifying that a total of $42.55 million in expenditure reductions would be required to balance the Board’s in-year budget for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2016. BOARD UNVEILS $42.55 MILLION IN CUTS WITHOUT CONSULTATION OR INPUT – February 27, 2015 That information was provided in senior management’s report to the TCDSB Budget Committee, entitled, Structural Budget Deficit Reduction Opportunities. The report also outlined for the first time, and without input from any of the TCDSB unionized workgroups $29.872 million dollars in specific expenditure reductions to be considered by the Board of Trustees to balance the budget. NO SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS MADE TO NON-CLASSROOM SPENDING AREAS The report also recommended that additional expenditure reductions of $12.678 million be made in:

I. In-School Administration; II. Board Administration and Governance; III. School Operations and Maintenance; IV. Transportation; and V. Education Assistants.

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TCDSB Board Meeting ● Thursday, March 26, 2015 ● 7:00 p.m.

No specific recommendations regarding cuts in these areas were made. Together, this would total the exact $42.55 million in expenditure reductions to balance the in-year budget for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2016. UNION GROUPS HAVE FIRST OPPORTUNITY TO RESPOND TO BOARD RECOMMENDATIONS – March 3, 2015 On Tuesday, March 3, 2015, with only two business days to prepare, and no advance opportunities to meet and discuss the report with senior management or the finance department, the leaders of the various TCDSB unionized workgroups were provided with their first opportunity to present their views to the Board of Trustees. UNION GROUPS RAISE CONCERNS ABOUT LACK OF CONSULTATION AND INPUT – March 3, 2015 Each union leader, without exception, commented on the complete lack of input and consultation in the development of the Board recommendations. Efforts were made to share, with the Trustees, the impact of the proposed cuts on the services to our students and the effect they would have on their well-being and their learning. UNION GROUPS REQUEST INTENSIVE AND AUTHENTIC CONSULTATION – March 3, 2015 Further, as major stakeholders, all of the union leaders asked for intensive and authentic consultation to allow us to share our views on the impact of proposed cuts and our views on other possible areas that might be targeted for cuts which might be less harmful and less impactful on student well being and student learning outcomes. UNION GROUPS SUGGEST A ROADMAP TO FIND LESS IMPACTFUL SAVINGS – March 3, 2015 Some of the union leaders even provided a preliminary roadmap to identify further savings in their first presentation to the Board. FIRST CONSULTATION WITH THE UNION GROUPS – March 5, 2015 On Wednesday, March 4, 2015, one day after the presentations to the Board, the union leadership was invited to a three hour consultation period with senior management, the finance department and trustees. This was the very first consult with the union leadership and the consult was to take place on Thursday, March 5, 2015 - two days after our initial request and only one day after we received our invitation. Despite the short time lines, the union leadership acknowledged and thanked the Board for the opportunity and we were assured that this would be the beginning of the formal consultation process.

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TCDSB Board Meeting ● Thursday, March 26, 2015 ● 7:00 p.m.

UNION GROUPS MAKE SECOND SET OF PRESENTATIONS TO BOARD – March 9, 2015 On Monday, March 9, 2015, two business days after the first consultation session, several TCDSB workgroup leaders once again presented to the Board. Once again, the opportunity was utilized to share possible impacts of the proposed staffing cuts on our students. TECT OFFERS VARIANCE TO ALLOW BOARD MORE TIME TO CONSULT BEFORE MAKING FINAL BUDGET DECISIONS – March 9, 2015 The TECT collective agreement stipulates that teachers who are declared surplus from their assignments are required to be given notice by March 31st. Arguments had been made by both senior management and trustees that the March 31st deadline date necessitated that cuts be made prior to that date, in order to meet Collective Agreement timelines. The President of TECT clearly signalled that he would be prepared to seek a variance (through Provincial OECTA) to the TECT collective agreement to allow the Board more time to consult and deliberate prior to making any cuts to the budget. Given that the Grants for Student Needs were to be announced by March 31st and given that other boards, including the TDSB were not making immediate cuts in anticipation of any announced reductions in the GSNs, a recommendation was made to delay any cuts until there was a clear identification of the actual board deficit. UNION LEADERSHIP NOT CONSULTED AND PREVENTED FROM PRESENTING REGARDING SECOND SET OF BOARD PROPOSED CUTS – March 12, 2015 Senior management had indicated that specific recommendations regarding the $12.678 earmarked for non-classroom cuts would be discussed at the Corporate Affairs Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday, March 12, 2015. Senior management did not post the report with the specific recommendations until after 5:00 pm of the same day. Given the posting occurred less than two hours before the meeting, none of the union leadership was in a position to respond or present to the Board on these proposals. UNION LEADERSHIP PREVENTED FROM DEPUTING TO BOARD ON A GO-FORWARD BASIS AFTER ONLY ONE CONSULTATION MEETING – March 12, 2015 Later in the same evening, after only one meaningful consultation session with the union leadership, and prior to the union leadership having any opportunity to respond to the Board’s proposals, a majority of the voting members of the Board of Trustees voted to limit future delegations. Specifically, Trustees voted to limit future delegations to ten and any individual or groups that had previously presented were effectively barred from presenting again on the Budget issue. BOARD HOLDS SECOND CONSULTATION MEETING WITH UNION LEADERSHIP EVEN THOUGH NONE OF THE LEADERSHIP IS ABLE TO PRESENT AT FUTURE BOARD MEETINGS.

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TCDSB Board Meeting ● Thursday, March 26, 2015 ● 7:00 p.m.

At our second consultation meeting on Friday, March 13, the union leadership expressed its disappointment to the Director and the Chair of the Board of Trustees at having been muzzled from speaking on the budget and proposed cuts after only one consultation meeting. In total, only eight calendar days/ five business days had passed between the first consultation meeting and the Board decision that effectively silenced the union leadership from speaking to budget issues and budget cuts. The purpose of the consultation meetings was always to explore and share information that would ultimately better inform our ability to offer constructive and meaningful recommendations for the Board’s consideration. MARCH 26 Having reviewed the chronology we would also ask you whether you feel we have been acting as partners in good faith. We believe that we have. Throughout this process we have had a singular goal in providing you with options and choices that will allow you to make the ultimate decisions about where the best place to make expenditure reductions rests. Whenever we were given the opportunity to input this process, we believe we have offered viable recommendations. The GSNs will be announced five days earlier than was originally expected and through the offer of TECT’s variance – an additional 15 calendar days are available to make final decisions. The Board has the opportunity to fulfill the pledge that was originally made by the Director and the Chair of the Board in their letter of November 26, 2014 to truly make this the most comprehensive consultation ever undertaken. More importantly, it will allow you to fully utilize all the workgroup leadership partners to ensure that your decisions will be least impactful on the quality programs and services we provide and least impactful on student well-being and learning outcomes. We are prepared to continue the hard work that needs to be done, in partnership, as major stakeholders in our Board.

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Fernandes, Lalita (Corporate Services)

From: Pauline Low <p.rodrigo.low@gmail.com>Sent: Thursday, March 26, 2015 2:18 AMTo: Fernandes, Lalita (Corporate Services)Subject: Delegation speech on behalf of Arrowsmith

Good Evening I am here to represent my family as well as the rest of the Arrowsmith community who I now invite to stand if they are allowing me to speak on their behalf. I am very upset about the changes being made to the Arrowsmith program. I understand the Arrowsmith program is being Grandfathered. There are rumors that instructional hours are being slashed, and some sites will be closed, and I want these concerns clarified and discussed. I am asking for the the case to be reopened, to explore options that would make the Arrowsmith program operate at its full potential. I'd like written communication from the board, and a meeting between the board & Arrowsmith parents and staff to explain, discuss, and revise the already approved changes. I think we should talk about how the Arrowsmith program was poorly promoted and setup to fail, how successful it really is for the LD students who participate, and opportunities to attract enrollment & subsidy/sponsorship so that we don't have to grandfather it or reduce the number of instuctional hours & sites. I don't understand why a gifted school was opened for gifted kids to thrive while the Arrowsmith program was cut and the chance for LD kids to thrive was taken away. We all know that gifted kids have the potential for a successful future, but we can't say the same for LD kids, especially not without the Arrowsmith program. As stated on your website, 'Our top priority is to ensure the deficit reduction plan does not adversely impact student achievement' but this is not the case for LD students. I want to know why the board has deemed that the 'evidence on the Arrowsmith Program does not outweigh the programs presently provided to the balance of the students in the system'. What is the evidence of LD kids without Arrowsmith versus LD kids with Arrowsmith in terms of highschool grades, highschool graduation, post secondary education, and careers. There is an opportunity here for the TCDSB to save a great program and receive public praise for it, especially at a time when society is focusing on mental health. Arrowsmith has been featured in books, newspaper articles, and conferences for its groundbreaking techniques and advances because it works. Arrowsmith can integrate LD kids back into the system so that the system won't have to always support them. In 2009, the Arrowsmith program was grandfathered and legal action was taken. I want our current case reopened and reinstated like it was in 2011, so that we can reconsider budget allocation (including suggestions already presented by other Arrowsmith parents, like the Mader family). Also, I want to explore strategies to promote this program, exceed

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classroom space, start a waiting list, and have the TCDSB finally receive favourable recognition for adopting such a successful and cutting-edge approach to overcoming LDs. Thank you for allowing me to speak. Please seriously consider my ideas, and decide in all of our best interests. - Pauline Rodrigo-Low - ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Pauline Low <p.rodrigo.low@gmail.com> Date: Tue, Mar 24, 2015 at 4:53 PM Subject: Arrowsmith concerns To: angela.kennedy@tcdsb.org, anthony.azzopardi@tcdsb.org, rosanna.delgrosso@tcdsb.org, dariojen@hotmail.com

Dear Ms. Kennedy I am writing to urge you to keep the Arrowsmith Program intact for current and future students with learning disabilities. I am an Arrowsmith parent, who has witnessed first-hand the tremendous improvements this groundbreaking program has accomplished. Finding out about the Arrowsmith program online was not an easy task. No one within the school board -Psychologists, Assessment & Programming Coordinators, Therapists, Social Workers- had ever mentioned Arrowsmith to me when Juliana's learning difficulties were being evaluated. But it was a huge relief and a blessing when I finally did find the Arrowsmith program at Holy Spirit. Through Arrowsmith's exercises and exceptional teacher, Mrs. Quinn, Juliana has flourished and filled learning gaps in ways that she did not when she was in a regular LD class at St.Rene Goupil. As a result, she is much happier, her confidence has increased, and she doesn't display the frustration with learning that she once did. Most people don't understand that learning disabilities can't be solved with just one-on-one attention & extra time. I know this because my daughter started out in a regular classroom, was moved to an LD class, and still failed to thrive. Arrowsmith is truly one of the TCDSB's 'hidden gems'. The TCDSB should be praised & recognized for implementing this cutting-edge approach to learning disabilities, especially at a time when society is focusing on mental health. If I had known about Arrowsmith, I would have enrolled Juliana at the time of her LD diagnosis. The fact that the TCDSB offers Arrowsmith for free to students overcomes the financial barrier that most families face. If it was publicized and marketed better, I'm sure all spaces would be full with a competitive waiting list of families trying to get their kids enrolled.

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Other Arrowsmith parents have made educated and valuable suggestions of how the budgets can be adjusted so that the Arrowsmith programs do not suffer. I think the next step should really be to implement those suggestions, and make Arrowsmith known within the school board, community, and general population (as books, newspapers, & conferences have highlighted Arrowsmith in the past). Take that 'hidden gem' & put it on display. That way, Arrowsmith within the TCDSB would draw favourable attention, and the program will be sustainable. Finally, the TCDSB would receive the praise that it deserves for keeping up with LD advances, as well as their contribution to physical and mental health by offering the Arrowsmith program. Please reconsider your budget allocation, and allow the Arrowsmith program and especially its students, the opportunity to thrive into fully integrated and valuable contributors of society. Sincerely, Pauline Low

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To: Trustees of the Toronto Catholic District School Board, Angela Gauthier, and Gary Poole

From: Elementary Guidance Teacher/Counsellors, Toronto Catholic District School Board

On behalf of the Elementary Guidance Teacher-Counsellors, this correspondence is issued in an attempt

to convey the importance and relevance of the above noted position within the Toronto Catholic District

School Board. Notwithstanding that the Board’s fiscal position is a matter that requires full attention and

redress, the measures the trustees and senior staff intend to undertake must ensure that the proposed

budget cuts do not directly impact Student Achievement and Well-Being. We submit that the underlying

goal of every stakeholder in this matter is to bear in mind that the removal of this essential role, such as

Elementary Guidance Teacher-Counsellors, will have a negative effect on the care and support of our

students, families and teachers. The following information is provided with the expectation that those

responsible to make any final decision reconsider any suggested proposals with full disclosure.

First and foremost, the role of the Guidance Teacher-Counsellor, in consultation with administration and

school staff, facilitates the development of student skills related to lifelong learning, self-care,

interpersonal relationships, as well as pathways and career planning. Another important aspect to

consider is that Guidance Teachers are the first point of contact in addressing student concerns. We are

directly involved in addressing a variety of student needs and offer individual or small group counselling

when students are faced with mental health and family issues which impact their learning and overall

school experience. Supporting families by communicating regularly with parents is an integral part of

the Guidance Teacher-Counsellor role.

On June 11, 2013, TCDSB approved its first student Mental Health and Well-Being policy. It provides

Mental Health Response Guidelines and Suicide Intervention Guidelines within the Board. While the

implementation of this policy is in its initial stages, it is worthy to note that Guidance Teacher-

Counsellors play a fundamental role in ensuring that students receive appropriate care and support.

Guidance Teacher-Counsellors are referenced in these guidelines as identified school mental health

response staff. As such, removal of the Guidance Teacher-Counsellor role would negatively impact

and/or contravene the Board’s Mental Health and Suicide Intervention Guidelines.

Guidance Teacher-Counsellors have been involved with the implementation of various initiatives

throughout the school system to ensure that students succeed both academically and emotionally.

Programs include: Roots of Empathy, Fun Friends Program, ASIST Risk Assessment, Shadow Box Training,

RCMC, V-TRA, Kids Have Stress Too, (issued through Psychology Foundation of Canada), Skills for Life

and Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teens. These programs have been successful in supporting student

achievement and overall well-being, positively impacting the school community as a whole.

In terms of the Student Success Initiatives and Guidance & Career Education, Guidance Teacher-

Counsellors play a vital role in implementing creative and innovative programs such as After8 Parent and

Student Information Guides, Skills Canada in-school and experiential learning, From 8 to Great transition

initiative, Cardboard Boat Races (experiential and technological learning), myBlueprint (supporting

intermediate students in the transition to high school, completion of the IPP). Guidance Teacher-

Counsellors assist students and parents with course selection, provide answers to questions and/or

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concerns about high school, help to alleviate anxiety that accompanies transitions and ensure informed

decision-making.

Reference should be made to the 2013 document, Creating Pathways to Success; an Education and

Career-Life Planning for Ontario Schools, which is mandated by the Ontario Ministry of Education. It is a

career development policy for Ontario schools, which involves the implementation of a comprehensive

Kindergarten to Grade 12 education and career/life planning program designed to help students achieve

their personal goals and become successful in their future endeavour ( pg 18). Guidance Teacher-

Counsellors are instrumental in the implementation of the Individual Pathway Plan (IPP) and All About

Me portfolio. The IPP becomes the primary planning tool for students as they move toward Secondary

education. Guidance Teachers assist students to reflect and record their learning and interests online

using the myBlueprint education planner, and help them make a plan for their future (pg 18). This

mandated policy highlights the importance of the role of a Guidance Teacher-Counsellor in meeting the

Ministry’s program requirements for Guidance and Career Education.

In summary, the role of an Elementary Guidance Teacher-Counsellor is both unique and comprehensive.

We provide individual counselling to address mental health needs which support personal development,

and implement school programs that promote and enhance Student Achievement and Well-Being. The

effectiveness of an Elementary Guidance Teacher-Counsellor may be difficult to measure but should not

be easily discarded. As a result, your review and consideration of the aforementioned position prior to

making any decision would be greatly appreciated.

We wish you all the best in your undertaking to reach a fiscally sound budget.

Respectfully,

TCSDB Elementary Guidance Teachers-Counsellors

Frank Amato Lisa Butera-Fracassi

Liliana Cimicata Joseph Comella

Liliana Compagnone Carl Chyz

Louisa De Ciantis Cheshue di Benedetto

Julie Fantinato Gabriella Figliano

Carrie Mack Maria Meffe

Frank Minchella Lucia Pietroniro

Jennifer Rivers Gina Vincent

Encl.

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The following attachments are some additional information for your review.

http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/document/policy/cps/creatingpathwayssuccess.pdf

www.thestar.com/yourtoronto/.../more-guidance-counsellors-needed-in- ontario-elementary-schools-

report-says.html

http://www.peopleforeducation.ca/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/guidance-2015-WEB.pdf

https://www.tcdsb.org/ProgramsServices/SchoolProgramsK12/GuidanceCoopEd/Pages/Guidance-Wishes.aspx

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