Be.Connected@HWDSB: June Edition

A MESSAGE FROM THE CEO 

As the 2025–2026 school year comes to a close this week, HWDSB is celebrating a remarkable year of growth, resilience, and community impact. Across our school board, students have demonstrated excellence in academics, the arts, athletics, and everyday acts of kindness, reflecting HWDSB's culture of belonging and excellence. 

This year we saw many meaningful examples of progress in student achievement, with an intentional focus on literacy, numeracy, inclusive learning, and future readiness. HWDSB staff strengthened schools’ learning (space) environments to ensure that students feel a true sense of belonging, supported by well-being initiatives, inclusive practices, and expanded opportunities for student voice. 

As we reflect on this school year, we celebrate the collective efforts of students, staff, families, and community partners who continue to bring HWDSB’s Values of Compassion, Dignity, Trust and Joy to life. Together, we are building a school system where every student can achieve, belong, and thrive. 

As we say goodbye to the 2025–2026 school year, we do so with a deep sense of pride and gratitude for all that has been accomplished across HWDSB. This year has been filled with meaningful learning, personal growth, and countless moments that have strengthened our school communities.  

We thank our students, staff, families, and partners for their continued dedication and support in helping every learner succeed, feel a true sense of belonging, and be prepared for their next steps.  

As summer begins, I encourage you to read this school year's last edition of Be.Connected@HWDSB. It is filled with important HWDSB and community information.  

I wish everyone a safe, restful, and rejuvenating break. We look forward to welcoming you back on Tuesday, September 8.  

Yours in service of public education,  

Sheryl Robinson Petrazzini 

CEO, HWDSB  

NATIONAL INDIGENOUS PEOPLE’S DAY – JUNE 21ST  

On June 21, HWDSB joined communities across the country in honouring and celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day—an important opportunity to recognize the enduring cultures, histories, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples, past, present, and future. Throughout June, National Indigenous History Month invites us to reflect, learn, and deepen our understanding of the strength, resilience, and self-determination of Indigenous Nations and communities. 

Our Multi-Year Strategic Plan affirms our commitment to Indigenous Educational Wellness and Reconciliation. This commitment extends far beyond a single day or month—it lives in how we learn, lead, and walk alongside Indigenous students, families, and communities every day, grounded in relationship and responsibility. 

June 21 also marks the Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year, holding deep cultural, spiritual, and social significance for many Indigenous Peoples—a time connected to renewal, balance, community, and celebration. 

As we reflect, we must also recognize that reconciliation is ongoing and requires sustained action. It calls on all of us to honour the truths of the past, strengthen relationships in the present, and take meaningful steps toward a more just and equitable future. Together, we remain committed to listening, learning, and acting in ways that support strong relationships with Indigenous communities and the success, well-being, and belonging of every student.

SPRING TRUSTEE NEWSLETTERS ARE IN! 

Our Spring Trustee Newsletters have arrived and are now available for the community to explore. Packed with updates, highlights, and insights from across the HWDSB wards, the newsletters offer a snapshot of the important work and achievements taking place in our schools.  

Be sure to read your trustee’s message to stay informed and connected! Trustees | Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board 

SUMMER SCHOOL REGISTRATION – SECONDARY AND ADULT PROGRAMS 
Registration for Secondary and Adult programs are open until June 26th at 11:00am. Students have the opportunity to get ahead, up a credit or improve an existing one. A variety of options are available to support learners in reaching their academic goals. Check out our secondary programs here!