Dawn Danko – 2025-2026 Fall School Update
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
Updated on Tuesday, October 21, 2025.