Be.Connected@HWDSB: May Edition
A MESSAGE FROM THE CEO
As we enter the final stretch of the school year, May invites us to pause and reflect on the learning, growth, and connections that have taken shape across our system. This is a time when we begin to truly observe that learning comes to life in visible and meaningful ways—through student artwork displayed in our schools and community spaces, performances that highlight creativity and confidence, and classroom learning that is applied in real-world and hands-on experiences.
Across HWDSB, students are finding their voice through leadership opportunities, collaborative projects, and community engagement, while staff continue to create inclusive environments where every student feels a strong sense of belonging.
We are also seeing the impact of this work in the many ways students are building independence, resilience, and pride in their accomplishments—whether through athletics, experiential learning opportunities like OYAP and pathways programs, or initiatives that center well-being and connection. Events like system-wide showcases, inclusive gatherings such as Access Athletics, and student-led activities across our schools are powerful reminders of what is possible when students feel supported to fully participate and succeed.
With June on the horizon, we look forward to celebrating the many milestones that mark this time of year—from graduations and completion ceremonies to the everyday achievements that reflect persistence, growth, and personal success. Together with families and our broader community, we remain focused on ensuring every student is supported to finish the year with confidence, pride, and a strong sense of belonging, ready to take their next steps.
Sheryl Robinson Petrazzini
Chief Executive Officer
EDUCATION WEEK
As we look back on a meaningful and energizing Education Week across HWDSB, we are proud to reflect on the many ways our students, staff and families came together to celebrate learning, growth, and future readiness.
It provided an opportunity to reflect on how the connection between home and school helps prepare HWDSB students to learn, grow, and succeed in a dynamic and ever-changing world.
I also want to recognize and sincerely thank our dedicated staff for the leadership they demonstrated each day. Through their commitment, care, and collaboration, they built strong, supportive environments where relationships flourished, and high expectations were upheld.
By fostering trust, belonging, and a shared sense of purpose, they created communities where students and colleagues alike felt supported, valued, and inspired to grow, contribute, and succeed.
MAY EDITION: FROM THE DIRECTOR’S DESK
We encourage you to read the latest edition of From the Director’s Desk, in this edition, we reflect on the significance of Education Week, as a time to recognize the critical work taking place each day across HWDSB schools, learning spaces, and workplaces in support of student success and future readiness – while highlighting the important connection between home and school, and how these relationships help prepare students to learn, grow, and succeed in a dynamic and ever-changing world.
You can find the message here: https://www.hwdsb.on.ca/news/directors-desk-may-edition
SUMMER SCHOOL
When summer arrives, so do exciting learning opportunities! Continuing Education at HWDSB offers fun and flexible summer programs for students of all ages.
Elementary Programs
Registration is open until June 8 at 11:00 a.m.
Students can try a new language (JK-Grade 8) or build their literacy and numeracy skills while participating in fun activities (Grades 6 & 7); multilingual learners can continue to improve their English (Grade 6+). Take a look at all our elementary programs here!
Grade 8 Programs
Registration is also open until June 8 at 11:00 a.m.
Grade 8 students can earn high school credits before starting high school. There are also fun programs that help students stay engaged and confident. Explore all Grade 8 programs here!
Secondary and Adult Programs
Registration is open until June 26 at 11:00 a.m.
Students can get ahead, make up a credit, or improve a credit they already have. There are lots of options to help reach learning goals. Check out our secondary programs here!
Help us spread the word!
Many HWDSB Summer School programs are open to students from outside our school board too.
Don’t miss out—explore HWDSB Summer School programs and find the perfect fit for your summer!
UPCOMING: NATIONAL ACCESSABILITY WEEK
National AccessAbility Week provides an important opportunity to reflect on how we create spaces where everyone can learn, contribute, and belong. It is a time to recognize the valuable contributions and leadership of persons with disabilities, while also celebrating the individuals, organizations, and communities working to remove barriers and build a more inclusive Canada.
In HWDSB, this connects directly to our shared values of Compassion, Dignity, Trust, and Joy—because accessibility is about more than accommodations; it is about creating learning and working environments where every student is respected, welcomed, and able to participate fully. It is also about taking meaningful action, big and small, to ensure our spaces continue to evolve in ways that reflect the strengths, identities, and experiences of all learners.
As we recognize this week from May 31 to June 6, we are reminded that barriers can take many forms—physical, informational, technological, organizational, or attitudinal—and that addressing them is a shared responsibility. When we work together to remove these barriers, we create stronger, more inclusive communities where every student, staff member, and family can fully engage, feel a sense of belonging, and contribute their unique voice and perspective.
ACCESS ATHLETICS
Athletics and Special Education, Inclusion and Equity are proud to host the third annual Access Athletics event for elementary and secondary students in SEIE programs on May 26 and May 28, 2026, at Nora Frances Henderson Secondary School. Taking place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on both days, this event brings students together in a welcoming and supportive environment designed to celebrate movement, participation, and connection.
Through a variety of modified games and activities, students are provided with meaningful opportunities to engage, build confidence, and experience the joy of being active alongside their peers. Events like Access Athletics reflect HWDSB’s commitment to creating inclusive spaces where every student feels a sense of belonging and is supported to participate fully, highlighting the importance of equity, well-being, and community in every aspect of student experience.
June marks Bike Month in Hamilton—a city-wide celebration that brings communities together to promote cycling as a fun, active, and sustainable way to get around. Throughout the month, residents of all ages and abilities are invited to participate in a wide range of rides, events, and activities that encourage connection, exploration, and healthy living.
For students, families, and staff across HWDSB, Bike Month also serves as a meaningful opportunity to support well-being, build confidence, and explore active transportation in our community. Initiatives such as Bike to School Week and community rides help foster safe, inclusive spaces where learners can develop independence while engaging with their peers and neighbourhoods. Through these shared experiences, Bike Month reinforces the importance of sustainability, belonging, and community connection—encouraging small, everyday choices that contribute to a healthier environment and a more vibrant city for all. For more information about cycling events and guided bike tours – click here!
HWDSB STUDENT ART EXHIBIT: HIDDEN GEMS & SONDER
We are pleased to invite you to the opening night of our Secondary Student Art Exhibit, Hidden Gems & Sonder taking place on Thursday, June 4 at 6:30 p.m. at the Art Gallery of Hamilton in the Jean and Ross Fischer Gallery.
The evening will showcase the creativity and talent of our students, with featured student performances beginning at 7:30 p.m. The wonderful student creations will be on display from June 4 to July 5, offering our community an opportunity to experience and celebrate the artistic voices and perspectives of our HWDSB learners.
This exhibit is a powerful reflection of HWDSB’s commitment to the priorities outlined in our Multi‑Year Strategic Plan and our shared mission to ensure every student experiences a sense of belonging and engages in dynamic learning.
Through authentic creative expression, students are able to explore identity, share their unique perspectives, and connect with others—bringing to life our values of Joy, Trust, Compassion, and Dignity.
Opportunities such as this not only highlight student achievement, but also demonstrate how the arts foster well-being, confidence, and engagement, while preparing learners for their futures as thoughtful, creative, and contributing members of our community.
To discover the stories behind each piece, click here!
