Ajax families in the Durham Catholic school community have until October 16, 2026, to provide feedback on the board’s next strategic plan, while applications for its Regional Arts and Media Program are open until November 26.
According to the Durham Catholic District School Board’s October newsletter, the new Multi-Year Strategic Plan will establish priorities and direction for the coming years. Students, families, staff, parishes, committees and community partners are invited to contribute through a survey.
Information about the planning process, timelines and opportunities to participate is available at dcdsb.ca/StrategicPlanning.
Arts applications and student recognition
Current Grade 6 and Grade 8 students can apply to the Regional Arts and Media Program for entry in September 2027. The board says applicants do not need previous experience.
Program options include dance, instrumental music, performing arts combining drama and vocal music, and visual arts. Media arts is available only for Grade 9 entry.
An information night is scheduled for October 27, 2026, at 7 p.m., with an opportunity to learn about the program and tour its facilities. Application details are available at amp.dcdsb.ca.
The board and its Anti-Black Racism and Black Excellence Advisory Committee will also host the Black Student Excellence Awards on November 5, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. at All Saints Catholic Secondary School, 3001 Country Lane in Whitby.
The awards recognize Grade 11 and 12 students who identify as Black and/or of African descent and have shown leadership or a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. Families wishing to attend are asked to complete the event registration form.
School travel safety and family resources
The newsletter also outlines an October roadway safety initiative involving Durham Regional Police, the Ministry of Transportation and the Child Passenger Safety Association of Canada.
Project B.A.S.S., short for Before & After School Safety, will operate around the 208 primary schools within Durham police boundaries. Its focus is proper seatbelt use and appropriate child safety seats for children travelling to and from school, as required under Ontario law.
For mental health support, the board directs families to parent, guardian and student resources from School Mental Health Ontario, as well as its own collection at dcdsb.ca/MentalHealth.
A new adult education option is also being launched through the Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre and Glen Hill Terrace. Their Living Classroom will allow learners to complete personal support worker education within the long-term care community.
The board says participants will gain practical experience in dementia care, infection prevention, communication, mobility support and palliative care, alongside mentorship from long-term care professionals.
