The OPSBA Executive Council and Board of Directors held meetings on Thursday through Saturday, April 22—24, 2010. Member Board representatives had the opportunity to receive updates, consider and make decisions on a range of current education issues.

The Ontario legislature recently proclaimed 2010 as the Year of the Métis.

The proclamation recognizes the unique history and ways of life of the Métis people, and their contributions to Ontario - past, present and future. The Métis in Ontario were a vital part of the economy of early Ontario. The Métis, their families and the communities they built were instrumental in the fur trade, as well as other parts of the economy, such as forestry and fishing.

John Beaucage, who is the former Grand Council Chief of the Anishinabek Nation, has been appointed to help Ontario address the needs of aboriginal children and youth. Mr. Beaucage will work closely with Minister of Children and Youth Services Laurel Broten to provide advice on aboriginal child welfare issues and will also help in discussions between the provincial government and First Nation leaders.

Each year, Ontarians mark the first full week of May as Children's Mental Health Week. This important week is about:

• increasing awareness of the signs of child and youth mental health problems
• decreasing stigma, and
• understanding that help is available and it works!

One in five children have mental health issues. Not only do they have to cope with the issue itself, they often have to cope as well with the stigma and lack of understanding that our society attaches to mental health issues.

In partnership with the University of Guelph, the Ontario Association of School Business Officials (OASBO) has announced its certificate programs for summer 2010 and registration is now open. The summer courses include:

On April 27, the Legislature passed the Full-Day Learning Statute Law Amendment Act, 2010. It is now awaiting Royal Assent by the Lieutenant Governor. OPSBA will continue to monitor the regulations that flow from this Act.

Cross County Showcase, the Ontario School Bus Association's 2010 Canadian Pupil Transportation Conference (CPTC) will be held from May 16 to 19 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Ottawa. The program will provide many innovative ideas, cost saving measures and alternatives for managing pupil transportation. Don't miss this opportunity to hear world renowned keynote speakers Brian Williams / Rex Murphy and to participate in 25+ workshops. Why reinvent the wheel? Find out how others in the pupil transportation industry are dealing with current and ongoing challenges.

Ontario Passes Full-Day Learning Act, April 27

Ontario Students Celebrate Earth Day, April 22

More Support For Kids With Special Needs, April 7

Ontario Health & Safety Conference & Trade Show, May 4—5

OPSBA Career Board

OASBO Job Postings, update as of Apr 29