In this episode of Tune In YRDSB, we are talking with Work Experience Transition Coordinators, and hear specifically from Bryan Ashby about the Work Experience Program and its 40-year legacy of supporting students.
Together, they explore how the program connects students with in-school and community placements, builds transferable skills, and supports transitions after high school.
From life skills to independent living, this conversation highlights how the Work Experience Program helps students and families plan for meaningful futures.
Need to jump to a section? Please see the timestamps below,
00:37 - About the work experience team
15:28 - Interview with PEAK student, Michael
40:19 - Interview with local partnering business
In this episode of Tune In YRDSB, host Kate Diakiw sits down with Lynn Ziraldo, Chair of the Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) and parent advocate, and Wendy Howes, Coordinating Superintendent of Student Services and Well-Being.
Together, they reflect on the evolving role of SEAC over the past four decades, the importance of parent and community voices, and the collective work of supporting students with special education needs. From personal stories to systemic change, the conversation highlights both the progress made and the ongoing commitment to equity, inclusion, and student success.
If families have questions about special education at YRDSB they are encouraged to reach out to Student Services (special.ed@yrdsb.ca) or the SEAC Chair (lynnziraldo@gmail.com).
In this episode of Tune In YRDSB, Tali Amar, Coordinator of the Math Team, is joined by Shauda Rhoden, math and science teacher at Richmond Hill High School, and Carina Park, former Assistant Head of Math at Richmond Hill High School, now Curriculum Consultant of Mathematics & Transitions.
Together, they discuss how to build meaningful engagement in mathematics, both inside and outside the classroom. From challenging the perception of math as procedural and rigid to creating collaborative communities where students feel a sense of belonging, the conversation explores how math learning can open doors, foster problem-solving skills, and help students see themselves reflected in the subject.
In this Pride Month episode of Tune In YRDSB, Max, School Social Worker, and D'Andrew, Community and Partnership Developer, reflect on how YRDSB is celebrating and supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ students, staff, and families, not just in June, but year-round.
From meaningful flag-raising ceremonies to student-led events that centre visibility, this conversation highlights the ongoing commitment to representation, affirmation, and community.
Max and D'Andrew share personal reflections and powerful moments that show how visibility and joy can be transformative in educational spaces.
In celebration of South Asian Heritage Month, Tune In YRDSB welcomes six secondary students for an honest conversation about culture, identity, and belonging.
Together, they reflect on the pride, strength, and growth that comes from embracing their South Asian heritage, while also exploring the diverse experiences within the community.
Through personal stories, they highlight how culture can be both grounding and transformative, offering connection, peace, and a strong sense of self.
In this Jewish Heritage Month episode of Tune In YRDSB, host Jordan Rappaport is joined by Rebecca Zaiontz, and Aneta Fishman to reflect on Jewish identity, pride, and belonging.
The conversation begins with a meaningful look at the history of Jewish communities in Canada, Ontario, and York Region, setting the stage for a rich exploration of culture, resilience, and the diversity of Jewish experiences.
Join us as we listen, learn, and celebrate the strength and contributions of Jewish communities within and beyond our schools.
In this East Asian Heritage Month episode of Tune In YRDSB, Superintendent Elizabeth Lau is joined by four East Asian-identifying staff, Rebecca Tam Nesbitt, Hilda Cosmidis, Seiji Ishiguro, and Jae Yeon (Jasmin) Kwak, for a rich, reflective conversation about identity, representation, and belonging.
Together, they explore the impact of growing up and working in educational spaces. They share stories of struggle, pride, and growth while emphasizing the importance of diverse leadership and visibility in schools.
In line with this year’s theme, Unity and Diversity: The Impact of Asian Communities in Shaping Canadian Identity, the guests reflect on personal experiences and the broader implications for students, staff, and community.
In honour of Sikh Heritage Month, this episode of Tune In YRDSB explores the cultural and spiritual significance of the Patka and Dastar, two important articles of faith within the Sikh community. Host Harkiran Kaur, a teacher at Teston Village Public School, is joined by Rosey Kaur, founder of the Patka Box, and Amrit Dhaliwal, Vice Principal at Kleinburg Public School.
Rosey shares her personal journey and how it led to the creation of the Patka Box, a school-based resource designed to support Sikh students when their Patka or Dastar comes off, ensuring they feel affirmed in their identity. Together, the guests discuss how the resource helps foster safer and more inclusive school environments through education, awareness, and professional learning.
Later in the episode, students from Blue Willow Public School also lend their voices to the conversation, helping deepen our collective understanding of Sikh identity and belonging in schools.
In this episode of Tune In YRDSB, we celebrate Persian Heritage Month by highlighting the rich cultural contributions of Persian communities across York Region District School Board and beyond.
Host Sherry Morgan, Principal of Equity and Inclusive School and Community Services, is joined by members of two staff affinity groups: the Iranian Afghan Educators Affinity Group and the Persian Admin Leaders Ontario Principal's Council (OPC) Affinity Group.
Together, they explore the importance of visibility, celebration, and affirmation of Persian identities in schools. From classroom representation to vibrant cultural events like student performances, poetry, and music, this episode showcases the power of creating spaces where students see themselves reflected, and where everyone can learn from one another.
In honour of Women’s History Month, this episode of Tune In YRDSB celebrates the strength, resilience, and achievements of female athletes.
Host Meshell Lynch-James, principal of Tommy Douglas Secondary School, sits down with two outstanding student athletes from Emily Carr Secondary School, Julie, a national basketball team player, and Stefania, a multi-sport athlete who has competed at the provincial level in soccer and hockey.
Julie and Stefania share their journeys in sport, from discovering their passions to the challenges of balancing rigorous training schedules with academics. They open up about the sacrifices they’ve made, the inspirations that keep them going, and the misconceptions they’ve encountered as female athletes. The conversation also explores how women’s sports have evolved, the growing recognition of female athletes in the media, and their hopes for inspiring the next generation.
Tune in to hear firsthand accounts of dedication, perseverance, and breaking barriers in sport!
In this episode of Tune In YRDSB, we visit Central Park Public School to explore how STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) comes to life in their library learning commons.
Host Alison MacPherson speaks with teacher-librarian Naseem Cohen and students Zoey and Ava about the school's vibrant makerspace, where hands-on learning fosters creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration.
From interactive stations to student-driven innovation, discover how STEM learning is shaping young minds and preparing them for the future.
In this episode of Tune In YRDSB, we discuss the ongoing work to support Black students in our schools, with a focus on Black Student Associations and the role of Graduation Coaches.
Host Heather Henry is joined by Deon Teape, Dane Smith, and Samuel Kwendo, educators dedicated to equity and student success.
They explore the importance of creating spaces where Black students feel seen, heard, and valued, reflecting on the impact of mentorship, ally-ship, culturally relevant curriculum, and community engagement.
Tune in for an insightful conversation about the challenges, progress, and future steps in ensuring meaningful support for Black students in our education system.
In this special Tamil Heritage Month episode of Tune In YRDSB, host Jananthini Sivabasgaran, YRDSB science & french teacher welcomes three talented guests who are shaping the Tamil arts scene. Singer-songwriter and Bharatanatyam dancer Luksimi Sivaneswaralingam, Bharatanatyam choreographer Kashmia Balabaskaran, and music producer Yanchan Produced.
Together, they explore the deep cultural roots of Tamil music and dance, the role of the arts in preserving identity, and how tradition meets innovation in today’s world. From classical Bharatanatyam to hip-hop fusion, this episode highlights the power of Tamil artistic expression and its global influence.
Tune in to celebrate the richness of Tamil culture through music, dance, and storytelling.
In this episode of Tune In YRDSB, Heather Young, Principal in Curriculum and Instructional Services, explores the role of early literacy in student success.
Joined by Stephanie Gauthier, Primary Literacy Coordinator, and Ashley LeBlanc, Kindergarten Literacy and Early Years Coordinator, they discuss what literacy truly incorporates, from reading and writing to communication and creativity. They touch on Early Reading Screening for Senior Kindergarten through Grade 2, the Board’s Text Selection Tool, and how YRDSB's Comprehensive Literacy Framework supports students across grades and disciplines.
The conversation highlights the importance of honouring students' identities, home languages, and family partnerships, while offering insights into how families can nurture literacy skills from infancy through the school years.
In this episode of Tune In YRDSB, Jilian Stambolich Arts Consultant with Curriculum and Instructional Services, hosts a vibrant discussion on the role of arts education in fostering creativity, leadership, and collaboration.
Joined by Nadia, head of dramatic arts and music at Richmond Green Secondary School, and Arshida, a student and recent participant in the school’s musical theatre program, the conversation explores the impact of learning in, about, and through the arts.
Together, they delve into how flattening traditional classroom hierarchies and embracing a "learning through leading" model empowers students to take ownership of their creative journeys while building leadership skills.
Tune in to discover how the arts are shaping future-ready learners at YRDSB.
In this episode of Tune In YRDSB, host Zahra, a teacher with the York Region District School Board, leads a meaningful conversation on Muslim identity and the importance of supporting Muslim students through initiatives like Muslim Student Associations (MSAs).
Featuring a diverse panel of students, educators, and a guest from the Muslims in Canada Archives, the discussion explores the impact of Islamic Heritage Month and why these celebrations matter year-round.
Together, they share insights on fostering inclusive spaces that honour faith and identity, and the role MSAs play in building supportive communities within schools.
In today's episode of Tune In YRDSB, host D'Andrew, the 2SLGBTQIA+ Community Partnership Developer with Inclusive Schools and Community Services, is joined by educators and students to celebrate 2SLGBTQIA+ History Month.
The conversation highlights the importance of GSA clubs in creating inclusive and affirming spaces for queer students. More than just clubs, GSAs are symbols of resilience, empowerment, and the on-going work of creating inclusive schools for all.
Hear from students as they share their personal experiences, explore how these groups have evolved, and reflect on the lasting impact GSAs have on school communities.
In this episode of Tune In YRDSB, host Paula Vicente, assistant coordinator of Mental Health at YRDSB, is joined by Peter Reid, a social worker on the Central Mental Health Team, along with student leaders from the Youth Space Student Advisory.
The discussion centres around the complex relationship between social media and teen mental health, exploring both the benefits and risks associated with popular platforms like TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), Snapchat, Discord, and online gaming spaces.
The Youth Space initiative, which promotes awareness, connection, and student-led mental health advocacy, plays a pivotal role in supporting well-being and leadership across schools.
Tune in as the guests share their insights, student perspectives, and strategies for fostering positive online interactions and mental health support within the YRDSB community.
In this impactful episode, school social workers Tracy Thomas-Elleston and Melanie Beckford delve into the critical topic of supporting Black student mental health within the York Region District School Board.
Tracy and Melanie, both dedicated members of the community care team, share their unique backgrounds and experiences that shape their understanding of the needs of Black students and families.
As they explore the importance of cultural heritage, Tracy and Melanie discuss their personal journeys—one rooted in Jamaican heritage and the other in Barbadian roots—highlighting the historical context of immigration and its influence on the Black population in Canada, and the necessity of an education system that actively dismantles oppressive practices and promotes inclusivity.
Join us for an enlightening discussion on the vital steps needed to foster a supportive educational landscape for Black students and families, ensuring their voices are heard and their mental health is prioritized.
In today's Pride Month episode, we delve into the important role of Gender and Sexuality Alliances (GSA) in school settings. Together, all of guests share their experiences and the impact GSAs have on fostering inclusive and supportive environments for students within the 2SLGBTQI+.
This episode also features insightful contributions from students who are actively involved in their school's GSA, speaking to the significance of these alliances in their lives.
Tune in to hear inspiring stories of celebration, acceptance, and community as we honour Pride Month and the vital work of GSAs in our schools.
