As parents and students pick up last minute items in preparation of the 2018-2019 school year, the Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) wants to remind UCDSB families that they don’t need to buy pencils, erasers or other such common classroom items.
All UCDSB schools provide students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 with the necessary regular classroom supplies, such as pencils/pens, erasers, glue, paper, etc.
This policy was adopted by the Board in March 2012 to help ease the financial burden on parents and ensure that all students have what they need to succeed. In addition to providing classroom supplies, each student is also given an agenda. “The beginning of the school year is an exciting time. It can also place an additional financial burden on families. To ensure that all students have the basic materials that they will require for learning and to help alleviate financial stress on families, the UCDSB is pleased to be able to provide basic learning materials for all our students,” said Superintendent Deanna Perry. “We prepare all students for a successful life, beginning with equitable access to learning materials during the school year.” The only items parents are asked to supply are backpacks and indoor shoes. Students in Grades 7 to 12 need to have gym shorts and t-shirts for physical education classes. A change of clothing is also suggested for students in Kindergarten. “A focus on resources is part of the Board of Trustees’ strategic plan. We believe that parents and students alike appreciate knowing that the school board addresses the cost of basic school supplies in our schools,” added Chair Jeff McMillan. If parents wish to purchase personal or enhanced supplies for specific programming, for example their own instrument or a high quality of wood for shop class, they can do so, but it is not necessary.
