Trustees

• Standing Committee
• Suspensions Appeals and Expulsion Hearings Committee

• Human Resources
• Program

Hello Ward 1 Community, 

I hope the school year has started smoothly for you and your family. As students and staff settle into new routines, this season reminds us of the importance of community, gratitude, and connection. I hope these first weeks have brought moments of joy and belonging across our Ward 1 schools.

I’m excited to share HWDSB’s new monthly newsletter, Be.Connected@HWDSB. Each edition includes important dates, reminders, and updates to help families and caregivers stay informed. Click to view September’s edition and October’s edition. Please watch for new issues each month, designed to make it easier for families to find what they need, when they need it.

Also, I’m happy to share that HWDSB’s Director of Education, Sheryl Robinson Petrazzini, has launched a monthly newsletter, From the Director’s Desk, which explores important topics that support the progress of HWDSB’s Multi-Year Strategic Plan and Board Improvement Plan. You can read the latest editions here: September and October.

As the weather begins to cool, families can find helpful information about weather-related procedures and community supports on both the HWDSB and City of Hamilton websites. These resources explain how we communicate closures, respond to changing conditions, and ensure student safety during seasonal weather changes.

As cold and flu season approaches, it’s important to take steps to help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses. Viruses like the flu, common cold, RSV, and COVID-19 often come with similar symptoms—and being prepared is key.  Starting October 27, eligible Ontarians can access free vaccines to help protect against:

• Flu & COVID-19: Available for everyone aged 6 months and older
• RSV: Available for infants (born after April 1, 2025), adults 75+, and some adults 60+ based on eligibility

Click here to find out more: Protect Yourself and Others | City of Hamilton

To stay connected year-round, follow HWDSB on Facebook and Instagram. If you aren’t already connected, visit our Parent Communication Tools page for ways to receive updates directly from your child’s school and the Board.

In alignment with our Multi-Year Strategic Plan, facilities teams continue to enhance learning environments across HWDSB. In Ward 1, projects completed this past summer, include a stage lift at Dalewood, corridor improvements at Kanétskare, and changeroom and dust collector upgrades at Westdale Secondary.

Our next Board Meeting takes place on Monday, October 27. Closer to the date, you can find virtual log in details by clicking here. Board Meetings are an important space for discussion, decision-making, and community voice, where trustees advocate for students and schools both locally and system wide. While there continues to be dialogue about the role of elected trustees, I am proud to serve the Ward 1 community. Thank you for trusting me to represent your voices and to make decisions that keep students, families, and staff at the centre. Trustees play an important role in guiding public education, uplifting community perspectives, and ensuring resources are used responsibly to support learning and well-being.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership and care for our students. I look forward to connecting with many of you in the months ahead.

Warm regards,

Elizabeth Wong
Trustee, Ward 1
Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board

• Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC)
• Standing Committee
• Supervised Alternative Learning Committee (SAL)
• Suspensions Appeals and Expulsion Hearings Committee

• Finance & Facilities
• Governance
• Policy

• City/School Board Liaison Committee

Hello Ward 3 Community,

I hope the school year has started smoothly for you and your family and that these first weeks have brought moments of joy and belonging. It has been exciting to support many initiatives for community-building events and projects at several Ward 3 schools and I am so thankful to parents and residents for their leadership and time.

As Chair of the Board, I am also proud of the ongoing work across our system to create equitable, accessible, welcoming spaces for all students, and learning environments that reflect our shared values of dignity, trust, compassion, and joy.

In alignment with our Multi-Year Strategic Plan, our Facilities teams continue to enhance learning environments across HWDSB. This upcoming summer will mark a busy period of construction in Ward 3, with a roof replacement project at Memorial and playground enhancements at Prince of Wales elementary schools.

Please see HWDSB’s new monthly newsletter, Be.Connected@HWDSB. Each edition includes important dates, reminders, and updates to help families and caregivers stay informed. Click to view September’s edition and October’s edition. Watch for new issues each month, designed to make it easier for families to find what they need, when they need it.

Also, I’m happy to share that HWDSB’s Director of Education, Sheryl Robinson Petrazzini, has launched a monthly newsletter, From the Director’s Desk, which explores important topics that support the progress of HWDSB’s Multi-Year Strategic Plan and Board Improvement Plan. You can read the latest editions here: September and October.

As the weather begins to cool, families can find helpful information about weather-related procedures and community supports on both the HWDSB and City of Hamilton websites. These resources explain how we communicate closures, respond to changing conditions, and ensure student safety during seasonal weather changes.

As cold and flu season approaches, it’s important to take steps to help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses. Viruses like the flu, common cold, RSV, and COVID-19 often come with similar symptoms—and being prepared is key.  Starting October 27, eligible Ontarians can access free vaccines to help protect against:

• Flu & COVID-19: Available for everyone aged 6 months and older
• RSV: Available for infants (born after April 1, 2025), adults 75+, and some adults 60+ based on eligibility

Click here to find out more: Protect Yourself and Others | City of Hamilton

To stay connected year-round, follow HWDSB on Facebook and Instagram. If you aren’t already connected, visit our Parent Communication Tools page for ways to receive updates directly from your child’s school and the Board.

Our next Board Meeting takes place on Monday, October 27. Closer to the date, you can find virtual log in details by clicking here. Board Meetings are an important space for discussion, decision-making, and community voice, where trustees advocate for students and schools both locally and system wide. While there continues to be dialogue in the public about the role of elected trustees, I am proud to serve the Ward 3 community. Thank you for trusting me to represent your voices and to make decisions that keep students, families, and staff at the centre. Trustees play an important role in local democracy by guiding public education, uplifting community perspectives, and ensuring resources are used responsibly to support learning and well-being.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership and care for our students. I look forward to connecting with many of you in the months ahead.

Warm regards,

Maria Felix Miller
Trustee, Ward 3 and Chair of the Board of Trustees
Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board

• Standing Committee
• Suspensions Appeals and Expulsion Hearings Committee
• Trustee Code of Conduct Review Committee – First Alternate

• Audit

Hello Ward 5 & 10 Community,

I hope the school year has started smoothly for you and your family. As students and staff settle into new routines, this season reminds us of the importance of community, gratitude, and connection. I hope these first weeks have brought moments of joy and belonging across our Ward 5 & 10 schools.

I’m excited to share HWDSB’s new monthly newsletter, Be.Connected@HWDSB. Each edition includes important dates, reminders, and updates to help families and caregivers stay informed. Click to view September’s edition and October’s edition. Please watch for new issues each month, designed to make it easier for families to find what they need, when they need it.

Also, I’m happy to share that HWDSB’s Director of Education, Sheryl Robinson Petrazzini, has launched a monthly newsletter, From the Director’s Desk, which explores important topics that support the progress of HWDSB’s Multi-Year Strategic Plan and Board Improvement Plan. You can read the latest editions here: September and October.

As the weather begins to cool, families can find helpful information about weather-related procedures and community supports on both the HWDSB and City of Hamilton websites. These resources explain how we communicate closures, respond to changing conditions, and ensure student safety during seasonal weather changes.

As cold and flu season approaches, it’s important to take steps to help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses. Viruses like the flu, common cold, RSV, and COVID-19 often come with similar symptoms—and being prepared is key.  Starting October 27, eligible Ontarians can access free vaccines to help protect against:

• Flu & COVID-19: Available for everyone aged 6 months and older
• RSV: Available for infants (born after April 1, 2025), adults 75+, and some adults 60+ based on eligibility

Click here to find out more: Protect Yourself and Others | City of Hamilton

To stay connected year-round, follow HWDSB on Facebook and Instagram. If you aren’t already connected, visit our Parent Communication Tools page for ways to receive updates directly from your child’s school and the Board.

In alignment with our Multi-Year Strategic Plan, facilities teams continue to enhance learning environments across HWDSB. I am pleased to announce the new installation of a new 8-room port-a-park and expansion of the parking lot were completed over the summer at Eastdale Elementary School!

Our next Board Meeting takes place on Monday, October 27. Closer to the date, you can find virtual log in details by clicking here. Board Meetings are an important space for discussion, decision-making, and community voice, where trustees advocate for students and schools both locally and system-wide. While there continues to be dialogue about the role of elected trustees, I am proud to serve the Wards 5 & 10 communities. Thank you for trusting me to represent your voices and to make decisions that keep students, families, and staff at the centre. Trustees play an important role in guiding public education, uplifting community perspectives, and ensuring resources are used responsibly to support learning and well-being.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership and care for our students. I look forward to connecting with many of you in the months ahead.

Warm regards,

Todd White
Trustee, Ward 5 & 10
Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board

• Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC)
• Standing Committee
• Suspensions Appeals and Expulsion Hearings Committee

• Audit *Committee Chair
• Human Resources *Committee Chair

• City/School Board Liaison Committee
• Hamilton-Wentworth Council of Home & School Associations

Hello Ward 7 Community,

I hope you have had a positive start to the school year! As students and staff settle into new routines, it’s a good moment to reflect on how much community and connections matter. I hope these first few weeks have brought a sense of joy and belonging across our Ward 7 schools.

Currently, there are significant changes being considered at the provincial level — including Bill 33 — that may impact the future of elected school boards and trustees.  It has been a privilege to serve as your Ward 7 Trustee for the past 11 years, and I thank you for trusting me to represent you. Trustees play a vital role in ensuring that decisions about education remain connected to the communities they serve. We bring local perspectives to the table, help guide responsible use of resources, and keep students, families, and staff at the centre of every decision.  If you have questions or feedback about the possible changes to school boards, please contact your MPP to ensure your voice is heard.

As we head into the last week of October, I’m excited to share HWDSB’s new monthly newsletter, Be.Connected@HWDSB with important dates, reminders, and updates to help families and caregivers stay informed. Click to view September’s edition and October’s edition.

I also encourage you to read Director of Education Sheryl Robinson Petrazzini’s monthly newsletter, From the Director’s Desk, which explores important topics that support the progress of HWDSB’s Multi-Year Strategic Plan and Board Improvement Plan. Click for the September and October editions.

To stay connected year-round, you can also follow HWDSB on Facebook, Instagram, and visit our Parent Communication Tools page to sign up for updates from your child’s school and the Board.

As colder weather arrives, please visit the HWDSB and City of Hamilton websites for information about weather-related procedures and community supports. These resources explain how we communicate closures, respond to changing conditions, and ensure student safety during weather changes.

With flu and respiratory virus season approaching, take steps to stay healthy and protected. Starting October 27, eligible Ontarians can access free vaccines to help protect against:

• Flu & COVID-19: Available for everyone aged 6 months and older
• RSV: Available for infants (born after April 1, 2025), adults 75+, and some adults 60+ based on eligibility

Click here to find out more: Protect Yourself and Others | City of Hamilton

Facilities teams were busy this summer improving our schools and learning environments. At Franklin Road, renovations to the music room and corridor ceilings were completed, and work continues upgrading the student washrooms. At G.L. Armstrong, a significant portion of the roof was replaced.

Our next Board Meeting takes place on Monday, October 27. Closer to the date, you can find virtual log-in details by clicking here. Board Meetings are where trustees bring community voices forward to make decisions and advocate for students and thriving education system.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership and care for our students. I look forward to connecting with many of you in the months ahead.

Warm regards,

Dawn Danko
Trustee, Ward 7
Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board

• Parent Involvement Committee (PIC)
• Standing Committee
• Supervised Alternative Learning Committee (SAL)
• Suspensions Appeals and Expulsion Hearings Committee

• Finance & Facilities
• Human Resources
• Program *Committee Chair

• Rural Schools

• Hamilton Foundation for Student Success (HFSS)
• Ontario Public School Boards’ Association (OPSBA), Alternate

Hello Ward 11 & 12 Community,

I hope the school year has started smoothly for you and your family. As students and staff settle into new routines, this season reminds us of the importance of community, gratitude, and connection. I hope these first weeks have brought moments of joy and belonging across our Ward 11 & 12 schools.

I’m excited to share HWDSB’s new monthly newsletter, Be.Connected@HWDSB. Each edition includes important dates, reminders, and updates to help families and caregivers stay informed. Click to view September’s edition and October’s edition. Please watch for new issues each month, designed to make it easier for families to find what they need, when they need it.

Also, I’m happy to share that HWDSB’s Director of Education, Sheryl Robinson Petrazzini, has launched a monthly newsletter, From the Director’s Desk, which explores important topics that support the progress of HWDSB’s Multi-Year Strategic Plan and Board Improvement Plan. You can read the latest editions here: September and October.

As the weather begins to cool, families can find helpful information about weather-related procedures and community supports on both the HWDSB and City of Hamilton websites. These resources explain how we communicate closures, respond to changing conditions, and ensure student safety during seasonal weather changes.

As cold and flu season approaches, it’s important to take steps to help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses. Viruses like the flu, common cold, RSV, and COVID-19 often come with similar symptoms—and being prepared is key.  Starting October 27, eligible Ontarians can access free vaccines to help protect against:

• Flu & COVID-19: Available for everyone aged 6 months and older
• RSV: Available for infants (born after April 1, 2025), adults 75+, and some adults 60+ based on eligibility

Click here to find out more: Protect Yourself and Others | City of Hamilton

To stay connected year-round, follow HWDSB on Facebook and Instagram. If you aren’t already connected, visit our Parent Communication Tools page for ways to receive updates directly from your child’s school and the Board.

In alignment with our Multi-Year Strategic Plan, facilities teams continue to enhance learning environments across HWDSB. Ancaster High’s paving project of sidewalks and the parking lot has come to an end this summer and we are extremely happy with the results!

Our next Board Meeting takes place on Monday, October 27. Closer to the date, you can find virtual log in details by clicking here. Board Meetings are an important space for discussion, decision-making, and community voice, where trustees advocate for students and schools both locally and system wide. While there continues to be dialogue about the role of elected trustees, I am proud to serve the Wards 11 & 12 communities. Thank you for trusting me to represent your voices and to make decisions that keep students, families, and staff at the centre. Trustees play an important role in guiding public education, uplifting community perspectives, and ensuring resources are used responsibly to support learning and well-being.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership and care for our students. I look forward to connecting with many of you in the months ahead.

Warm regards,

Amanda Fehrman
Trustee, Ward 11 & 12
Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board

• Standing Committee
• Suspensions Appeals and Expulsion Hearings Committee
• Trustee Code of Conduct Review Committee – First Alternate

• Policy

• French As a Second Language
• Rural Schools

Hello Families of Waterdown & Flamborough,

I hope you and your family have had a pleasant start to the school year! As students and staff settle into new routines, new classrooms, new friends, this time of year reminds us of the importance of curiosity, community, and connection. I hope these first few weeks have brought moments of joy and excitement to folks from across our Ward 15 schools.

During the continued dialogue about the future of elected trustees, I want to assure you how proud I am to serve the diverse needs of Waterdown, Flamborough, Carlisle, Freelton, Millgrove, Mountsberg and other tightly knit communities that reside in Ward 15. Thank you for trusting me to represent and fight for your voices, to make decisions that keep students, families, and staff at the center. Trustees play an important role in guiding public education, uplifting community perspectives, and ensuring resources are used responsibly to support learning and well-being. When my phone rings, I’m honoured to answer the call: your call.

In alignment with the Board of Trustees’ Multi-Year Strategic Plan, facilities teams continue to enhance learning environments across HWDSB. At Allan Greenleaf, a new chiller system is on the way to help keep things cool in the warmer months. Over at Mary Hopkins, the HVAC system upgrades were completed this past summer.

Though we acknowledge that retrofitting older infrastructure isn’t a perfect solution, our staff continues to work diligently to address issues as they arise within our financial means to keep students in classrooms. As the weather begins to cool, families can find helpful information about weather-related procedures and community supports on both the HWDSB and City of Hamilton websites. These resources explain how we communicate closures, respond to changing conditions, and ensure student safety during seasonal weather changes.

As cold and flu season approaches, it’s important to take steps to help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses. Viruses like the flu, common cold, RSV, and COVID-19 often come with similar symptoms—and being prepared is key.

Starting October 27, eligible Ontarians can access free vaccines to help protect against:

• Flu & COVID-19: Available for everyone aged 6 months and older
• RSV: Available for infants (born after April 1, 2025), adults 75+, and some adults 60+ based on eligibility

Click here to find out more: Protect Yourself and Others | City of Hamilton

I’m excited to share HWDSB’s new monthly newsletter, Be.Connected@HWDSB. Each edition includes important dates, reminders, and updates to help families and caregivers stay informed. Click here to view September’s edition and October’s edition. Please watch for new issues each month, designed to make it easier for families to find what they need, when they need it.

Also, I’m also happy to share that HWDSB’s Director of Education, Sheryl Robinson Petrazzini, has launched a monthly newsletter, From the Director’s Desk, which explores important topics that support the progress of HWDSB’s Multi-Year Strategic Plan and Board Improvement Plan. You can read the latest editions here: September and October.

To stay connected year-round, follow HWDSB on Facebook and Instagram. If you aren’t already connected, visit our Parent Communication Tools page for ways to receive updates directly from your child’s school and the Board.

Our next Board Meeting takes place on Monday, October 27. Closer to the date, you can find virtual log in detail by clicking here. Board Meetings are an important space for public discussion, decision-making, and community voice, where trustees advocate for students and schools both locally and system wide. If you ever want to have your voice heard at a meeting and can’t attend yourself, send me a note and I’ll gladly share your thoughts with the Board in your stead.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership and care for our students. I look forward to connecting with many of you in the months ahead.

Warm regards,

Graeme Noble
Trustee, Ward 15
Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board