Highlights from the Board Room – May 26, 2026

Presentations

Director’s Recognition Award

Extraordinary contributions to Trillium Lakelands District School Board (TLDSB) by staff, students, school volunteers, or community members are recognized at each Public Meeting of the Board by the director of education, Wes Hahn. The following individual was nominated for their outstanding commitment and dedication to TLDSB.

Oshkaabewis Dave Rice of Wasauksing First Nation has walked alongside students, families, educators, and leaders with humility, wisdom, and compassion. Whether through land-based learning, parent/guardian evenings, pow wows, drumming, dancing, or the simple but powerful act of listening deeply, he creates spaces where people feel seen, valued, and connected.

Dave’s presence is a light within our schools and communities. He grounds us in Indigenous ways of knowing and being, reminding us of the importance of relationships, reciprocity, and walking together in a good way. His work as an Authentic Voice and on the Indigenous Education Advisory Committee reflect his deep commitment to supporting the well-being, belonging, and success of students. His leadership with the recent land walk for the upcoming Outdoor Education and Indigenous Centre brought people together with one mind and one heart, creating a shared path forward rooted in respect, understanding, and hope.

The impact Dave has made on the lives of others is immeasurable. He offers teachings, guidance, and understanding in moments that are both joyful and difficult. His calm and caring presence reminds us all of the strength found in kindness, compassion, and community. Through every conversation, ceremony, drumbeat, and act of mentorship, he helps others deepen their understanding, strengthen their identity, and grow in respect for each other. Though his humility might keep him from recognizing the magnitude of his influence, his contributions will continue to ripple across generations.

Administrative updates

Director’s update

Wes Hahn began his update by recognizing a change to school boards through Bill 101, the title of director of education has transitioned to chief executive officer (CEO). In addition, Hahn noted that he will also hold the role of chief education officer (CEdO).

Hahn commented on the recent celebration event that took place on May 20, recognizing individuals who have reached their 25+ years of service and retirement.

He also spoke about the annual meeting between Chief Franks from Wahata First Nation and TLDSB, where they had the opportunity to discuss Indigenous students in TLDSB and how to best support these students.

At Director’s Student Voice Summits that took place over two dates in April and May, Grade 7 to 10 student representatives from all TLDSB schools brought forward areas of concern such as technology, racism, and discrimination. Hahn expressed to the trustees that these issues are at the forefront of focus for the system and senior leadership team, and that the information gleaned from these sessions in previous years has contributed to helping the Board adapt areas the system needed to address.

During the director’s update, student trustees Alex Goltz and Taliah McNelly shared their role in collecting important information about life and learning in TLDSB from students at this year’s Director’s Student Voice Summits. In addition to creating community and connection, Goltz and McNelly acknowledged how important these summits are for students to be a voice in the system.

2026 Board meeting schedule

Board meetings are open to the public to attend at the host location in-person. For viewing, the meetings are live-streamed and the link is made available on the tldsb.ca website on the day of the meeting.