January 30, 2026

Message from Our Trustee

February 2026

There’s a lot happening as we move into the second half of the school year, and I want to share some updates and opportunities.

• Programs and Opportunities

Well done to all secondary school students who have completed their exams and are starting a new semester with new courses and teachers. 

We encourage students to connect with their guidance counselors and to learn about the many secondary programs and courses available - programs that let students explore their interests, gain transferable skills and get hands-on experience that will benefit them in the future. Opportunities include earning college credits, workplace certifications, lifeguarding certifications and real on-the-job experience - all while earning high school credits. 

Our elementary and secondary schools also offer a variety of clubs where students can meet peers with similar interests, take on leadership roles and try new things. Getting involved is a great way to build connections and skills.  

We also regularly host events to help students and families learn about different pathways and programs and to bring communities together. Check your school newsletters and the Board calendar so you don’t miss these opportunities.

• Black History Month

Throughout the Board and community, events are being held to celebrate Black History Month. We look forward to honoring the contributions of Black Canadians and creating opportunities for community to come together. 

• Kindergarten Registration is Open

Is your child turning 4 or 5 in 2026? Or do you know someone who is? Kindergarten helps children develop the academic and social skills they need to thrive in Grade 1 and beyond. Our skilled and caring teams of certified teachers and early childhood educators work together to support every child in a welcoming, inclusive environment. Start your journey at www.yrdsb.ca/kindergarten. 

• Preparing Students for the Future

As a school board, we know that it is important that we continue to evolve to meet the needs of a rapidly changing society. That includes preparing students to use artificial intelligence (AI) effectively, appropriately and safely. We are developing guidelines for educators, students and families to support responsible AI use. While AI can support student learning, it does not replace student work. We teach and encourage critical thinking and honesty when using these tools. More will be shared in the near future. 

• Student Trustee Elections 

We are also in the middle of the student trustee elections for next school year. This is an excellent opportunity for students in Grades 5-12 to participate in the democratic process. Student trustees represent student voice at the board table, influencing discussions about policy, budget and more. The final vote takes place later in the month and students will receive an email to their GAPPs with information on candidates and how to vote. 

• York Region Presidents’ Council

Student Trustees work closely with the York Region Presidents’ Council. The council includes leadership from all secondary school student councils. All secondary school students are welcome to attend their meetings and receive invitations in their GAPPS email. It’s a great opportunity for students to get involved and have their voices heard. 

• Wishing You Success

We wish all students and families the very best as we begin this second half of the school year and look forward to spring break ahead. 

I encourage you to reach out to me if you have any questions.

Jenny Chen, Trustee, Markham Wards 1 and 8

School Council News

We are excited to host a Career Talk - an inspiring event created for Thornlea students to explore a variety of career and post-secondary pathways. Taking place at the school library during lunch time (11:25am-12:25pm), this event features engaging presentations from members of our parent and guardian community. 
We are currently looking for parents and guardians to volunteer as guest speakers and share their unique career journeys with our students. Speakers from a wide range of industries are welcome, including (but not limited to):

• Health Care (e.g., nurses, dentists, mental health professionals, lab technicians)
• Business (e.g., entrepreneurs, marketing professionals, finance, management)
• Engineering (e.g., civil, mechanical, electrical, software engineers)
• Skilled Trades (e.g. electricians, plumbers, mechanics, welders, carpenters)
• Information Technology (e.g., software developers, cybersecurity, data analysts)
• Media and Communications (e.g., journalism, public relations, digital content creation)
• Professional Services (e.g., lawyer, accountant, human resources, consultant, financial planner, funeral director)
• and many other fields

Each presentation will be approximately 20 to 30 minutes in length, including time for a Q&A session with students. If you are interested in inspiring the next generation and offering insight into your profession, we would love to hear from you! Please email us no later than Friday, February 6 at  thornlea.ss@sc.yrdsb.ca to express your interest.

We understand that lunchtime may be a busy period, and we will do our very best to accommodate speakers’ schedules. Organizers will provide additional details regarding logistics once speakers are confirmed. As part of YRDSB policy, school administration will also contact speakers regarding a simple vetting process.

Thank you for helping us connect students with real-world career experiences!

Let's Stay Connected!

Let’s stay connected—sign up for our Email List to be the first to hear about our initiatives. If you have questions or would like to volunteer, we would love to hear from you. Together, we can make this a fantastic year for our students!

Thornlea School Council – 2025-2026

Executive Members: Aroon B. and Pengli C. (Co-chairs), Diana L. (Communication), Jane P. and Trisha T. (Secretaries), Khurram S. (Fundraising), and Susan S. (Treasurer)
Members at Large: Ali S.*, Eileen M., Erika G.*, Grace Y., Jenn I.*, Kenneth N., Reshmeen S., Sharon A. (* Fundraising Committee)
Contact Us: thornlea.ss@sc.yrdsb.ca

Schedule for Monday, February 2

On February 2, Semester 1 Exam Review will take place in the morning. Students will be able to view their final exams/culminating activities.

The first day of semester two will take place in the afternoon. 

Attendance will be taken during morning and afternoon classes.  

Please see the modified schedule below for timing:
 

Understanding and Navigating the Education System - Families of YRDSB Black Students Monthly Virtual Information Session

Families, parents, and caregivers, please join us for our monthly virtual meeting on Monday, February 9, from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm, where families with Black children come together to learn about resources and upcoming programs for Black students in both elementary and secondary schools. Please see our flyer for more information and the registration link.

For further information, please email the Centre for Black Student Excellence (CBSE) at blackstudentexcellence@yrdsb.ca.