Welcome to THE UHS HOWL Weekly Bulletin January 30, 2026

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The Month Ahead

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.

Ron Lynn, Trustee, Markham Wards 2 and 6

MESSAGE FROM GUIDANCE DEPARTMENT

Semester 2 Course Change Requests:

 Students requesting to make changes for semester 2 must contact their alpha Guidance counsellor (in-person or via email), prior to the start of Semester 2 (no later than Friday, January 30).  Changes to semester 2 timetables during the first week of semester 2 will only be processed for students who were unsuccessful in a semester 1 course.

Final semester 2 timetables will be available to students via Teach Assist on Sunday, February 1, 2026.

Please note, students who have already been added to a wait list will only be contacted if space is available in the course and they are next on the list.

Course Selection Information:

 Beginning Monday, February 2 to Friday, February 27, the Guidance office will be open to walk-ins only to support all students with course selection.  A Guidance pop-up station will also be available in the cafeteria during the lunch periods (periods 3 and 4). Course selection submissions will be completed through myPathway Planner and will open for submissions on Thursday, February 12 at 9am and will close on Friday, February 20, 4pm.

This is NOT a first come, first served. Course requests will only be processed once course selection closes. Information regarding the course selection process will be shared with students during the grade assemblies taking place on at the start of semester 2.   

Students are encouraged to speak with departments if they require more information about courses. A schedule for meeting department representatives will be shared with students during the grade assemblies.  

Please note, graduating students are required to submit the ‘Not Returning’ and Exit Survey in myPathway Planner.  This is now open for Grade 12 graduating students.