A message from Curtis Ennis, Director of Education for the HDSB | Winter Break 2022

Hello,

As the Winter Break approaches, I would like to take this opportunity to wish our Halton community a safe and joyful holiday season.

With 2022 coming to a close, I want to thank families for your continued dedication, perseverance and understanding in supporting your children, our students, on their educational journey.

To our staff, thank you for your tireless efforts and commitment to providing inclusive, responsive and safe learning environments for all students. Thank you for all you do to support and strengthen public education.

To our students, I am so very proud of your focus, hard work and commitment in doing your best to achieve success inside and outside of the classroom. While I know you have faced challenges along the way, I want you to know that I see you and I appreciate your desire for excellence. I believe in you.

This year, we, as a Board, have engaged in projects and initiatives to support student success and well-being, as we continue to fulfill the commitments of our 2020-2024 Multi-Year Plan. We continue to strive to promote a positive learning environment in schools consistent with our values and to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all students, staff and the community. I am so proud to be part of the Halton District School Board and to see how our schools have been implementing this important work in everything we do.

This year has not been without its challenges. Everyone’s mental health fluctuates and I want to remind students, staff and families that help and resources are available to support our mental health when we are well coping with occasional stresses, feeling distressed or experiencing a crisis.

The HDSB Mental Health and Well-Being resources on the HDSB website are designed to provide students and families with information about mental health, how to promote and maintain wellness, and where to turn to for help if you are concerned about your own mental health or that of a friend or family member.

During this Winter Break, I encourage you all to spend time with loved ones, relax and reflect on the many successes you have achieved. We look forward to welcoming students and staff back in 2023.

Thank you, and be well.

NOTE: The recording background was created by students at Central Public School.