Brantford Collegiate Institute and Vocational
Grand Erie Families,
The first few weeks of a new school year bring excitement, curiosity and optimism; not only for students, but for employees and parents/caregivers.
The first day of school was extra special this year as we opened a brand-new school, Blanche E. Williams Public School, to more than 650 students and employees. In partnership with the City of Brantford and Brantford Public Library, the state-of-the-art facility will serve as a community hub for years to come.
In June, we launched a new strategic plan to guide us for the next four years. We Lead Forward will serve as a roadmap that builds on our strengths and guides how we move forward together. Together, we have achieved many successes and improvements for all learners, and we look forward to building on this foundation.
Beginning in the 2026-27 school year, the Ontario Ministry of Education has introduced several changes to assessment, evaluation, attendance and graduation requirements for all Ontario secondary students.
We’re here to support every learner’s journey, beginning with attendance. The Grand Erie Attendance Strategy will increase parent and caregiver awareness and engagement in supporting and promoting attendance, as well as support robust, inclusive and collaborative strategies to address complex barriers to student attendance.
The Innovation Hub @ North Park is hosting a free STEAM Sparks family night in partnership with McMaster University on October 22, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Families with students in Grades 4 to 8 are invited to discover real-world science and technology connections. RSVP Now.
This school year, we are continuing to update and provide resources to help families support learning at home. Specifically, the math newsletters will focus on exploring mathematics in authentic, everyday contexts to help build meaningful connections between learning at school and experiences at home.
Grade 3, 6, and 9 EQAO and Grade 10 OSSLT assessment results were released last week and show year-over-year gains to close the learning gap with provincial results.
Starting school for the first time is one of the most significant milestones for children and their families. This year, we are pleased to feature the following picture book, "What Will You Be When You Grow Up?" by author C.C. Lacavera.
On September 30, we recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day. Across Grand Erie, Orange Shirt Day will be observed in meaningful ways, guided by the Indigenous Education team and through the collective efforts of schools and workplaces.
September 30, this year, is also Rowan’s Law. The day provides an opportunity to raise awareness about concussions and concussion safety.
This week is the official kick-off for Terry Fox school runs. Last year, Grand Erie schools raised more than $82,000 in support of cancer research and the Terry Fox Foundation.
We are currently seeking engaged, knowledgeable community members to serve as representatives on the Special Education Advisory Committee. Applications will be accepted until October 15.
Back for the 2026-27 school year, Grade 9 and 10 students at Brantford Collegiate Institute can receive a free Brantford Transit bus pass, and Grade 9 and 10 students at North Park Collegiate can receive a free membership to the Wayne Gretzky Centre.
The Ontario government is launching its annual Level Up! career fair to showcase the skilled trades. Students in Grades 7 to 12, their parents/caregivers and jobseekers will be able to explore these careers through exhibits, demonstrations and conversations with tradespeople and employers.
Some additional good news to start the new school year. The Norfolk General Hospital and the Norfolk Hospital Nursing Home welcomed five new interns to Project SEARCH this fall, and Grade 9 students at Brantford Collegiate Institute are finding their voice thanks to a new YMCA program.
As we continue to build a culture of learning, well-being, and belonging, I want to highlight School Mental Health Ontario for the resource library they continue to build for students, parents, and caregivers. Together, we can support every student's mental health.
The Student and Family Support Office is here to help parents and caregivers navigate questions or concerns about their child’s education beyond the school level.
Thank you for choosing Grand Erie and for partnering with us in your child’s learning journey.
Dr. JoAnna Roberto
Chief Executive Officer/Chief Education Officer
