December 18th, 2020

Dear WRDSB community,

As we near the last few days of 2020, let’s reflect on the year we shared together. It was a year unlike any other in public education, or indeed our lifetimes. In the face of an unprecedented global pandemic, the closure of schools, and social uprising in response to anti-Black racism, our system and community continued to work together to support our students and their learning.

Our staff, from across every facet of our system, truly demonstrated their dedication and commitment to student learning. From organizing emergency distance learning in the wake of school closures, to reorganizing our system to deliver two modes of learning simultaneously, to preparing for a variety of scenarios as we head into the new year – I am so proud of the efforts of all those in the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB).

WRDSB staff are not alone in supporting our students, though, and this year this is truer than ever before. Families play a crucial role in continuing student learning and maintaining the safety of our schools in the time of COVID-19. From the emergency closure, to the ongoing health and safety measures, WRDSB families are critical to supporting our system. I want all of our students’ families to know how much we appreciate their support – we couldn’t do it without you.

For the past few weeks, we have been recognizing WRDSB 2020 Champions. With this in mind, I want to invite all in the WRDSB community to continue to be Champions of health and safety as we head into the winter break. Typically, this time of year is one of large family gatherings, sharing in cheer and celebration, but this year we must not partake in these events. We need to continue to follow the advice of Public Health

As we prepare to embark upon 2021, it is my hope that we will be able to continue to demonstrate the commitment and passion which allowed us to navigate the unknown and unimaginable in 2020. More than ever before, we know the importance of putting our students first – each and every one – so we can ensure they are best positioned to meet with success. In these challenging times, our present and future is made brighter by our incredible students, staff and community partners – all working together in support of our shared goal to support our students on their chosen pathways.

I want to wish each of you a wonderful, restful holiday season. I hope you have a chance to relax, visit virtually with family and friends, and recharge as we look towards returning to school and work with our students, friends and colleagues in 2021.

On behalf of the Senior Team, we wish you a very happy holiday and a wonderful New Year.

Sincerely,

John Bryant
Director of Education