DSBN

Starting Kindergarten is a big step for both children and families!

You may be wondering:

What does a Kindergarten day look like?
Will my child learn through play?
How do educators support different needs?

In DSBN Kindergarten, children learn, explore, build relationships, and grow through caring, play-based learning experiences designed to support the whole child.

Swipe through to learn more about what a day in Kindergarten can include.

Learn more about DSBN Kindergarten here: dsbn.org/kindergarten

On Tuesday, more than 1,200 student athletes from 89 DSBN schools came together at Eastdale Secondary School for the 21st annual DSBN Special Olympics! 🏅

Throughout the day, students showcased teamwork, determination, and school spirit as they participated in events, earned ribbons, and celebrated each other’s accomplishments.

This incredible day was made possible through the support of staff, volunteers, families, community partners and student leaders from across the DSBN. From preparing ribbons and leading ceremonies to organizing activities throughout the day, students helped create a welcoming and memorable experience for everyone involved.

A special thank you to Niagara Transit for supplying shuttle buses to support transportation throughout the event.

The DSBN Special Olympics continues to be a powerful reminder of what’s possible when students are supported, celebrated and empowered to say YES to new opportunities, challenges and experiences.

LemonAID Day is almost here 🍋

On June 13, families, friends, schools, and businesses across Niagara will be setting up lemonade stands to rase funds for a great cause in support of FACS Niagara Foundation.

Every dollar raised helps children and youth connected to Family & Children’s Services Niagara attend summer camp, make memories, build confidence, and enjoy the experiences every kid deserves.

There are still a limited number of LemonAID stands available, and registration is free. Participants receive everything they need to get started, including lemonade, cups, T-shirts, hats, and more.

Want to join in? Register your stand today: https://facsniagarafoundation.org/mldregistration2026/

Can’t host on June 13? You can still participate any day in June.

Let’s come together to make this summer a little sweeter for local kids. 💛

DSBN’s Annual Special Olympics event returns on June 9 at Eastdale Secondary School, celebrating 21 years of friendship, inclusion and belonging.

This long-standing tradition brings together student athletes from across DSBN for a day of competition, teamwork and school spirit.

From track and field events to moments of personal bests, the day celebrates the dedication, determination and athleticism of every participant.

🚍 COMPLIMENTARY SHUTTLE 🚍

We are pleased to share that Niagara Regional Transit will be providing a complimentary shuttle service to and from the event for volunteers, families, and spectators.

Due to limited parking available at Eastdale Secondary School, we strongly encourage attendees to take advantage of this free service.

📍 Route: Continuous loop between 404/405 Memorial Park Drive (Welland, ON L3B 1A7) and Eastdale Secondary School
➡️ Hours of Operation: 9:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

This event shines a light on the incredible students who take part each year, recognizing them as athletes and celebrating the joy, pride and community that sport creates.

Good luck to all our athletes!

For more information please visit: www.dsbn.org/programs-services/special-education/events

Reminder to all Elementary families that Friday June 5 is a PD Day for all DSBN Elementary Schools.

For School Calendars, please visit www.dsbn.org/calendars

The Grad 2026 Art Showcase is a student-curated exhibition celebrating the work of graduating visual arts students from DSBN secondary schools.

Curated by the graduates themselves, the collection highlights their unique perspectives and voices while recognizing the role of arts education in building confidence, identity, and connection.

This showcase is both a celebration and an acknowledgement of the hard work students have invested over the years. We are proud of what they have created and grateful for the ideas, talent, and insight they have brought to our school communities.

As they prepare for their next chapter, we wish them continued success and inspiration in all that lies ahead!

Community members are welcome to visit in person until June 11 or explore student artwork online until June 17.

Swipe through to see a preview of some of the incredible artwork featured in the exhibition, including some of our award winners!

➡️In-Person Exhibit open until June 11
DSBN Education Centre, 191 Carlton Street, St. Catharines

➡️Virtual Gallery open until June 17
View the full virtual gallery at www.dsbn.org/grad-art-show

Congratulations to Gabrielle Cudmore from Greater Fort Erie Secondary School on winning a gold medal at the Skills Canada National Competition.

Gabrielle earned top honours in the Job Skill Demonstration category, showcasing her culinary skills through a creative and engaging presentation on Welsh cakes and her family heritage.

After her earlier win at Skills Ontario, Gabrielle shared, “Three years of hard work got me here. Three years of not giving up despite the results.” She also credits her GFESS culinary teacher for supporting and encouraging her along the way.

Way to go, Gabrielle!

Are you or your child interested in learning more about Skills Challenges or Specialist High Skills Major programming at DSBN? Visit dsbn.org/programs-services/tech-ed/shsm/specialst-high-skills-major to learn more.

National Indigenous History Month is a time to learn about Indigenous cultures, histories, perspectives and present-day realities. It is also a time to recognize and appreciate the contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples in our communities and across Canada.

This week, we recognize and celebrate our School Crossing Guards, whose daily commitment helps keep DSBN students safe on their way to and from school. Whether it is a busy morning or a snowy afternoon, crossing guards are a steady, caring presence in our communities.

Thank you for helping our students arrive safely and ready to learn!

The DSBN raises the Pride Progress Flag to affirm our commitment to safe, caring, respectful, and inclusive school communities.

Representation and visibility help 2SLGBTQ+ students, staff, and families feel seen, valued, and supported.

Pride Month is a time to celebrate the diversity and contributions of 2SLGBTQ+ individuals and communities.