May 5th, 2025

This week is Education Week in Ontario. Recognized during the first week of May each year, Education Week gives us the opportunity to celebrate student achievement and teaching excellence in the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB).

Guided by our Strategic Plan and Board Improvement and Equity Plan (BIEP), this year for Education Week, the WRDSB is proud to highlight a few examples of how we are actively supporting students in exploring and finding success on their chosen pathways in school and after graduation.

Taking Learning Beyond the Classroom

Students from Cameron Heights Collegiate Institute in the Specialized High Skills Major (SHSM) program had the opportunity to venture offsite and tour a local manufacturing facility to engage in experiential learning.

Throughout the day, students took part in widget making with a robotic arm, running simulators, viewed a probing demonstration and had their resumes reviewed by industry professionals.

Students in the SHSM program from Grand River Collegiate Institute, Eastwood Collegiate Institute and Forest Heights Collegiate Institute recently collaborated during a Sector Partnership Experience workshop focused on the transportation industry at the WRDSB Education Centre. They designed and built working prototypes, created business cases, and pitched their solutions to a panel of judges.

SHSM is just one of the many opportunities the WRDSB offers that helps students explore careers and gain industry experience during their secondary education as they explore possible future pathways.

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Exploring Post-Secondary Education with Local Partners

In partnership with Wilfrid Laurier University’s Faculty of Music and the Penderecki String Quartet, students from Eastwood, Grand River, and Waterloo Collegiate Institutes attended a two-day workshop where they learned how to perform three musical pieces.

At Wilfrid Laurier University’s Lazaridis Hall, the WRDSB hosted the second annual Black Brilliance Conference for elementary students. Guided by the theme of flourishing, the breakout sessions ranged from music making with a visiting Professor from Ghana, storytelling, mathematics, wellness and more.

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Extracurriculars Spark a Passion for Learning

WRDSB graduate Charles has a passion for the environment, which led him to an unforgettable experience taking part in Envirothon. In a #StudentVoice story, he shares how the experience has further fueled his passion for environmental research as he continues his studies in Engineering Science at the University of Toronto.

“Competing in the regional and provincial rounds of Envirothon was an incredible experience—not only did we gain valuable hands-on learning, but we also had the chance to connect with like-minded individuals.”

Maya, a current WRDSB student, shared her thoughts about how student involvement in school activities isn’t just about joining clubs or attending events, it’s an opportunity to develop skills that will be used for life. She shared five points about the benefits available for students who get involved in extracurricular opportunities at school.

“Participation in extracurricular activities teaches valuable skills; forms friendships and meaningful connections; encourages personal growth; increases confidence; and much more – all of which can be applied and expanded on in other aspects of life.”

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A Thank You to WRDSB Education Workers

As we mark Education Week, we invite families and caregivers to join us as we express gratitude to WRDSB education workers. Each day, they make a difference in our student’s education and life.

We also want to thank families and community members for their support, trust and partnership. Together we are helping students build their futures and succeed in their chosen pathways.