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...
Jun 25, 2025•38 min
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....
Jun 18, 2025•40 min
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 communitie...
Jun 11, 2025•1 hr 35 min
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 visibi...
Jun 04, 2025•1 hr 1 min
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...
Apr 30, 2025•33 min
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 visi...
Apr 24, 2025•43 min
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...
Mar 26, 2025•29 min
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 youn...
Mar 18, 2025•34 min
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 commu...
Feb 24, 2025•1 hr 14 min
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 inno...
Jan 31, 2025•39 min
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 T...
Jan 27, 2025•39 min
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...
Jan 16, 2025•32 min
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 ...
Nov 29, 2024•59 min
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 shar...
Nov 21, 2024•27 min
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. Th...
Nov 12, 2024•20 min
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 jou...
Oct 10, 2024•39 min
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 ...
Jun 21, 2024•55 min
Welcome to another episode of Experience YRDSB! Hosted by Karen O'Meara, Community Connected Experiential Learning Consultant, this episode dives deep into the dynamic world of business, innovation, and entrepreneurship within the YRDSB secondary schools. Karen is joined by Claire Hainstock, Head of Business at Bur Oak Secondary School, who brings a wealth of knowledge from his extensive career in international banking and trade. Together, they explore the various courses and programs available ...
Jun 12, 2024•29 min
Listen to this special episode of the podcast as we invite you into circle to join self-identified Indigenous students as they make moccasins and share in learning and conversation with Knowledge Keeper Angela Duckworth and members of the school board's First Nation, Metis and Inuit Education team. Learn more about the significance of moccasins, what it means to these graduating students to make a pair of moccasins to travel into the next phase of their lives.
Jun 10, 2024•51 min
Join us for another special episode as we celebrate South Asian Heritage Month! Hosted by Kyle Gulab, a special education consultant, this episode delves into the significance of May as a month of celebration and recognition for South Asian communities in York Region. Our guests, including Educators Radhika Bhatt, Annu Minhas, Zahra Murad, and Speech Pathologist, Kavita Masih as they share their personal insights on what it means to be South Asian, highlighting both the diversity and commonaliti...
May 30, 2024•50 min
In today's episode, we delve into the exciting and fulfilling world of hospitality and tourism. Hosted by Kristy MacDonald, Consultant in Curriculum and Instructional services, supporting technological education, including the hospitality sector. Our technological education teachers, bring real-world industry experience to her classrooms, offering students authentic learning experiences. According to the Workforce Planning Board of York Region, in 2022, the accommodation and food services sector...
May 24, 2024•46 min
Join us on this special episode of Tune in YRDSB with host Jordan Rappapport, Equity & Inclusive Education Consultant, alongside Hayden Bendavid, Equity & Inclusive Education Consultant, Rebecca Zaiontz, Teacher at Johnny Lombardi PS and Leonora Buskin, Community Partnership Developer, as they talk about the importance of pride in identity, how folks identify as being Jewish and so much more. Don't miss this important conversation!
May 15, 2024•1 hr 15 min
In recognition of Children's Mental Health Awareness Week, today's episode is hosted by Paula Vicente and Sarah Hayden, alongside the Youth Space Student Advisory Champions, as they delve into the crucial topic of social anxiety and supporting healthy relationships. Youth Space, short for Students Promoting Awareness, Connection, and Empowerment for Mental Health, Wellbeing, and Leadership, brings together students from various schools to foster a safe and inclusive space for mental health initi...
May 06, 2024•34 min
Celebrate Asian Heritage Month with us on this special episode of Tune in YRDSB! Join hosts Alison Cheng and Pauline Guo, community partnership developers, as they honour the rich cultures and contributions of Asian communities worldwide. In this episode, we're joined by an incredible lineup of guests: Alice Wan-ling Chu, Bronson Chu, Jae Yeon Kwak (also known as Jasmin), and Seiji Ishiguro. Together, they represent diverse backgrounds and perspectives, enriching our exploration of East Asian di...
May 02, 2024•53 min
Welcome back to Tune In YRDSB! In this episode, Karen O'Meara, the Community Connected Experiential Learning Consultant continues our Experience YRDSB series, delving into the world of Media Arts and Digital Design. Join Karen as she sits down with Ilana Bern, the head of arts, music, and drama at Thornlea Secondary School, to uncover the innovative programs shaping the creative minds of tomorrow. Ilana shares her inspiring journey from traditional painting to the cutting-edge realm of digital d...
Apr 11, 2024•19 min
In this special episode, we're diving into Sikh Heritage Month. Facilitated by Harpinder Kaur, a community partnership developer, and joined by colleagues from YRDSB who share both their Sikh identity and their passion for education. Together, they're members of the Sikh Educators Voice Alliance, also known as SEVA. Joined by Harpinder, is Kirandeep Mann, French teacher at Blue Willow Public School; Simranjit Goraya, grades five and six teacher at Red Maple Public School; and Amrit Dhaliwal, ser...
Apr 05, 2024•49 min
Join us on this special episode of Tune in YRDSB as we celebrate International Women's Day by spotlighting the voices and experiences of remarkable women within the education sector. Hosted by Jessica Dusome, Lead Caretaker at Rouge Park Public School, this episode delves into the journeys, insights, and inspirations of women shaping the landscape of education. In recognition of International Women's Day, we feature an inspiring panel of female staff members from various roles across the organiz...
Mar 28, 2024•43 min
In this captivating episode of Shine, we are joined by the remarkable Heather Greenwood Davis, the trailblazing freelance travel writer who holds the distinction of being the first and only black woman to have a travel column in both Canadian national newspapers. Heather's illustrious career includes contributions to prestigious publications like National Geographic and The Globe and Mail, as well as appearances on television stations across North America. We delve into Heather's inspiring journ...
Mar 21, 2024•28 min
Welcome to a new sub-series of Tune In YRDSB! In this episode we are introducing, Experience YRDSB, where we're delving into the exciting world of secondary school options. This episode is hosted by Reshma Badiani, coordinator in Curriculum and Instructional Services with the Pathways Team. With course selection season in full swing, students are faced with the task of choosing a path that's right for them. Our secondary schools offer a plethora of fantastic courses and programs designed to help...
Mar 07, 2024•32 min
The York Region District School Board recently commemorated Tamil Heritage Month. In this special episode, Initha Subramaniam, Vice Principal at Legacy Public School, led the discussion, shedding light on the origins of Educators for Tamil Student Success (ETSS). Formed in 2009 amidst the aftermath of the Sri Lankan conflict, ETSS emerged as a beacon of support for Tamil students grappling with the traumas of war. ETSS has grown into a dynamic community of advocates within the YRDSB. Over the ye...
Feb 01, 2024•56 min
