January 28, 2022
Words of Wisdom
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
Have a quote you would like to submit for next week’s Staff Update? Click here to share the words of wisdom that inspired you most recently.
COVID-19 Case Count
UTS reported 2 confirmed COVID-19 cases among in-person staff and students during the week of January 24-29. These numbers are updated every Thursday, and can be found in the document below.
Weekly Schedule
Please find the supervision schedule for the week of January 31-February 4, 2022 below, including lunch supervision. 
Students Learning Online and In-Person
This spreadsheet will be updated at the start of each spiral for teachers to reference and determine which students will be learning in person and online. If a student is forced to isolate or remain home due to COVID-19 in the household, the list will also be updated.
UTS Code of Conduct Update
Please see the new updates to the UTS Code of Conduct.
The change to the Code of Conduct emphasizes the School's support of intellectual diversity through healthy debate that allows differing and at times opposing perspectives to be expressed in a respectful manner, and be heard in a peaceful and safe environment.
Communications Policies & Procedures Updates
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Incorporating Indigenous Perspectives in Classroom Learning
On Thursday, February 3 from 11:50 a.m.-12:20 p.m. please join us in this online ColLAB as we continue the conversation about Incorporating Indigenous Perspectives in Classroom Learning and hear from Chris Walasek how he is:
incorporating land acknowledgements and next steps (i.e. towards dismantling colonialism).
working with Cat to incorporate talking circles (a sacred ceremony) as one way of learning in his classroom.
Fitted N95 Masks Now Available
Fitted N95 masks are now available for pick-up at the main desk. If you have been fitted for an N95 mask, please go to the main desk and provide them with the model number that you were fitted for. The main desk will provide you with a fitted mask for each day that you are there in person. The model number that you were fitted for should be on the card that was provided to you by the nurse.
Reusing Medical/KN95/N95 Masks
Here are the instructions on how to safely re-use medical/KN95/N95 masks. When in doubt, please change your mask.
COVID-19 Isolation Protocols
Please see the Infographic for COVID protocols that provides step by step guidelines for what to do in case someone is symptomatic or has tested positive for COVID-19. This tool is based on the guidance from the Ministry of Education.
Updated Mandatory COVID-19 Vaccination Policy
UTS has updated their mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy to include booster shots (third doses). All UTS staff will be expected to provide proof of receiving their third dose of COVID-19 vaccination by March 31st 2022. UTS will be extending this policy to all students when they are eligible for their 3rd doses. This decision was made in light of the constantly evolving COVID-19 situation and the guidance from the Public Health Agency of Canada, the Government of Ontario and Toronto Public Health.
Mental Health Minute
Maintaining good mental health and wellness is an important aspect of managing stress, emotions, and our relationships. As we continue to navigate this global health crisis, it is important that we take care of our own mental health as adults, parents, and caregivers. The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) is offering a series of free online tutorials to gain a better understanding of mental health topics and dispel some of the stigma that surrounds it. Check out the offerings here.
Parent Update
Click below to check out this week’s Parent Update. New in this update, you will find information on the parents’ survey for in-person or online learning for spiral 2, an additional reminder to parents about drop-off and pick-ups at Humbert, the latest on UTS' June academic calendar and more.
Silver Lining
Every week, we will feature a submission by a staff member that highlights the lighter side of life. If you would like to submit a Silver Lining, please email communications@utschool.ca.
This week’s submission comes from Kara Lysne-Paris. The upside to our ‘snow days’ this week was the chance for everyone to enjoy the snowfall—after they had shovelled out. Here is Django’s first deep snow experience. More on BlogTO.
Submit Silver Linings here or in the Staff Updates Google Doc!
For more dogs discovering the joy of Monday’s snowfall, see Blog TO’s page.
https://www.blogto.com/city/2022/01/toronto-pets-confusing-snow-reactions-are-hilarious/
