Community Report Card 2026
It has once again been an incredible year of accomplishment, leadership and success for KPR students and
staff. We congratulate our students on another year of dedicated learning and memories that will last a lifetime. As always, we are grateful and appreciative of staff and community partners who make KPR schools come alive every day – and we are proud to highlight moments of inspiration and success in our journey of the past year.
These stories detail some of the incredible accomplishments and dedication of KPR students and staff that define us as an educational community. Together, we continue to welcome each day with joy and purpose.
Our Community Report Card is a snapshot in time highlighting the incredible work of our students and staff and demonstrates how, together, we will continue to achieve great things.
Thank you for being part of our journey. Together, WeAreKPR!
Please take a few minutes to read all the stories in this year's report.
Rita Russo
Chief Executive Officer
Paul Brown
Chairperson of the Board
Putting Students First Through Inclusive Practices at Charles Bowman PS
Putting students first is a simple, yet powerful framework reflected in the daily work of Laura Dow, Educational Assistant at Charles Bowman PS. Recognized for her ability to make genuine connections with students and to inspire the best in everyone she works with, Laura is a KPR staff member who truly embodies what it means to cultivate student success, well-being and inclusion.
Earlier this spring, Laura facilitated a collaboration with KPR’s Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) to promote inclusivity and a greater awareness of the types of communication tools that support non-verbal students at school. As part of this initiative, core boards were installed in the schoolyard, and SLPs visited classrooms to help neurotypical students learn what core boards are, how they support communication, and why they would be seeing them around the school.
Laura’s words and actions reflect the shared values and sense of purpose that bring the KPR community together. Her dedication to helping students feel seen, heard, and valued leaves a lasting impact on both her school and those around her and is an inspiration to others. Thank you Laura for supporting student growth, inclusion and overall well-being! #WeAreKPR
Read this full story and more in the 2026 Community Report Card.
Student Achievement, Well-being and Success for All
Student achievement, well-being, and success for all are at the core of the Kawartha Pine Ridge (KPR) District School Board’s values. Progressing in each of these areas requires thoughtful planning, evidence-based action, and alignment throughout the system. As the 2025-2026 school year wraps up, planning for next school year is well underway.
The Ministry of Education’s Student Achievement Plan requirements along with KPR’s Strategic Priorities and Board Action Plan create a clear path forward for school and department leaders. In addition to the focus on core academic skills, preparation of students for future success, and student engagement and well-being, KPR’s Student Achievement Plan also includes foundational actions in the areas of Indigenous education, culturally relevant and responsive pedagogy, and special education.
Math Coaches co-teach lessons with the classroom teacher, and they meet regularly to review assessment data, reflect on effective strategies for math programming, and co-plan the direction of the mathematics learning journey for students. This learning is also shared with other school staff, including the Special Education team and school administration, to support coordinated planning and shared learning.
Read this full story and more in the 2026 Community Report Card.
Sparking Literacy Learning this Summer
In a fun, camp-like atmosphere over 200 KPR students are participating in the SPARK Elementary Summer Learning Program this summer, with a focus on targeted early literacy intervention supports, to inspire progress in reading, writing and literacy understanding!
The program runs for half-days in 10 KPR schools from June 30 to July 17, with a focus on Kindergarten to Grade 2 students. Literacy instruction occurs from 9:00 – 11:30 a.m. in small, differentiated groups, with a short break for nutrition and movement. From 11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., students engage in fun activities, such as arts and crafts and outdoor games. At the end of the program, families receive an overview of their child's key learning, growth, and next steps, along with suggestions to continue learning over the summer.
School staff have observed that students who participate in SPARK return to school in the fall with increased confidence, improved decoding and comprehension skills, and a greater willingness to take positive risks in their learning. They are often more engaged during literacy activities and demonstrate improvement not only in skill development but also in their overall attitude toward reading.
Read this full story and more in the 2026 Community Report Card.
Indigenous Skilled Trades Fair
In partnership with Hiawatha First Nation, Ontario Power Generation, and Kagita Mikam, the KPR Indigenous Education Department, and KPR Pathways team, hosted a Skilled Trades Fair at the Hiawatha First Nation Gathering Place on May 22.
Indigenous students in Grades 9 through 12 had the opportunity to engage directly with community partners and industry professionals, including participating in hands-on building experiences. As part of the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP), students explored a wide range of career pathways and opportunities in the skilled trades for Indigenous youth.
This event was a strong example of collaboration, experiential learning, and meaningful relationship building and was a wonderful opportunity for students.
Focus on Youth for Future Success
KPR is improving graduation rates and helping students prepare for future success through programs such as the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP), Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM), Focus on Youth (FOY), and Dual Credit programs.
Focus on Youth provides learning, leadership and employment opportunities for youth who may be facing personal challenges and barriers to employment. Through this program, youth have the opportunity to be mentored and gain practical work experience, while supporting their community.
Students work in paid placements, earn summer school co-op credits, participate in certifications and training, and receive life skills support.
Read this full story and more in the 2026 Community Report Card.
Buckhorn and Baltimore Students Saving the Salmon
Students at Buckhorn Public School (PS) and Baltimore PS were enthusiastic participants in the Bring Back the Atlantic Salmon program through the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH) this spring.
For the past nine years, Buckhorn PS has participated in the Atlantic Salmon Classroom Hatchery program. OFAH supplies the equipment and salmon eggs for the program and offers students lessons on the salmon life cycle, habitat restoration, and environmental consciousness, including practical steps students and community members are taking to bring back this species.
Each year, Buckhorn PS has released 90-100 Atlantic Salmon fry into a tributary that flows into Lake Ontario.
BHS Drama Students Earn Provincial Recognition
Drama students at Bowmanville High School (BHS) had an eventful year, experiencing success at both the local and provincial level! This past April, the hard work and commitment of over 30 students culminated in four incredible performances of William Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream.
This captivating theatrical performance was filled with magic, mischief, and heart – bringing talented students together and earning a well-deserved standing ovation!
BHS’ competition troupe also represented the school and Board at Canada’s largest youth theatre festival, the National Theatre School Dramafest. The multi-tiered festival system involves local district and regional showcases, culminating in the highly anticipated Provincial Showcase that was held at York University in May this year, where top student productions from across the region gathered to perform.
Read this full story and more in the 2026 Community Report Card.
RCAF Squadron Visit Inspires Students
Members of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) visited North Shore Public School with their CH146 Griffon helicopter in mid-May. Students greeted the 424 Transport and Rescue Squadron with great excitement!
RCAF members provided a static display of the helicopter and shared a presentation with the students. Everyone had a chance to ask questions, explore the helicopter up close, and have their pictures taken.
As they left the school, the squadron demonstrated a search and rescue evacuation. Students and staff alike were inspired by the incredible skill and professionalism of the special RCAF visitors.
Read this full story and more in the 2026 Community Report Card.
Wellness Focus Continues in Clarington Schools
The second annual Wellness Fair hosted by Clarke High School in early May was a huge success! Child and Youth Worker Amanda Langille organized the event with Public Health Nurse Taylor Gilbank and a group of student leaders.
Based on feedback from students, the event included agencies directly involved in supporting youth health and well-being. Students used special passports to visit tables of interest and to learn more about the services and supports available.
There were also student-run nutrition and art stations, and an activity focused on the qualities of positive relationships – and how to identify red and green flags.
Read this full story and more in the 2026 Community Report Card.
Creative Connections Bringing Smiles to Students
Students in Mrs. Conyers’ SK/Grade 1 class at Merwin Greer Public School saw their imagination come to life through a fun and memorable collaboration with a Grade 11 Ceramics class at Cobourg Collegiate Institute (CCI)! This joint project began with each student in Mrs. Conyers’ class creating a drawing of their own unique creature, accompanied by a short story or creature biography. From there, an idea emerged to collaborate with the Grade 11 Ceramics Class at CCI to bring the creatures to life through a 3D ceramic model!
To support their drawings, the SK/Grade 1 students studied sculptures and discussed design elements that would be important to consider. The CCI students were given the drawings and engaged in a creative process to create colourful, tactile sculptures made especially for the children. When the artwork was complete, CCI students visited Merwin Greer PS to meet the young people whose creativity inspired the sculptures. During the visit, students had the opportunity to connect and learn from one another. As a surprise, SK/Grade 1 students read their short stories – a special way to wrap up the project and bring everyone together to admire and celebrate the unique creations.
Read this full story and more in the 2026 Community Report Card.
Queen Mary PS Rocks the Stage
This April, Queen Mary Public School “turned up the volume” with its production of Rock of Ages: Youth Edition! A family-friendly adaptation of the hit Broadway musical Rock of Ages, this high-energy student production was packed with iconic 1980s classic rock anthems that had everyone singing along!
Over 80 students from Kindergarten to Grade 8 came together both on stage and behind the scenes to share their talents, creativity, and passion with the community.
Not only did the production foster meaningful connections among students and staff across all grade levels – but thanks to the incredible support of families, staff and community members, it also raised over $4,700 for the school’s nutrition program, giving back to students in a truly meaningful way.
Read this full story and more in the 2026 Community Report Card.
Building on a Tradition of Giving at Ganaraska Trail PS
Ganaraska Trail Public School has proudly supported the Cops for Cancer fundraiser for 19 years, and this year was no exception!
As part of their school-wide fundraising campaign, Ganaraska Trail PS promoted engagement and motivated supporters to donate through fun incentives – including staff lunch days, Jewel Jars, a Dance-a-thon, head shaving, ponytail cuts and pie-throwing! Among those who participated in the pie throwing were teachers, the principal, the Port Hope Chief of Police, and Port Hope Police officers, all bravely taking pies to the face.
“Through the dedication and generosity of our staff, students, and families, we have raised more than $70,000 throughout the years to support cancer research and programs for those affected by this devastating disease,” said Nicole and Emma.
Read this full story and more in the 2026 Community Report Card.
Students Lead the Way with Well-being at Healthy School Summits
In KPR schools, Belonging Matters – we recognize and value students as unique thinkers with diverse identities and lived experiences whose positive mental health and well-being are prioritized. We also know that students want opportunities to be leaders in this important work (#HearNowON2024).
This school year, KPR worked with community partners to continue and expand opportunities that build capacity for student-led mental health promotion in schools, through TAMI (Talking About Mental Illness) Durham and Together for Healthy Schools initiatives.
In the fall, 27 intermediate and secondary schools across KPR participated in Healthy School Summits, where students learned about mental health promotion at school, and staff learned about supporting this important work. Action planning began and over 130 students returned to their schools to lead this work in ways that responded to their school’s unique strengths and challenges.
Getting Ready for Kindergarten Webinar
KPR continues to support families as they prepare for their child’s transition to school through the Getting Ready for Kindergarten virtual information series.
On May 20, 2026, KPR hosted the webinar Getting Ready for Kindergarten: Special Education and Inclusive Classrooms. This session was designed to support families and caregivers of children with special education needs. The webinar provided an overview of the Kindergarten environment at KPR, support for diverse learning needs, and how families and schools work together to help every child feel safe, supported, and successful.
Participant feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with 89% of respondents indicating the session helped them feel more prepared for Kindergarten. Families said they valued the clear guidance, engaging presenters, and practical information about available supports, including strategies to build children’s independence. A recording of this webinar, along with the full virtual series, is available on the KPR website.
Read this full story and more in the 2026 Community Report Card.
Thank you KPR Volunteers!
In honour of National Volunteer Week, April 19-25, KPR recognized volunteers who bring KPR’s mission, vision and values to life by enhancing educational experiences and inspiring students to excel in learning, succeed in life, and enrich communities.
KPR schools are fortunate to benefit from the time and expertise of over 2,000 volunteers supporting extra-curricular activities, Student Nutrition Programs (SNP), school and classroom activities, and School Councils.
We are incredibly grateful for everything KPR volunteers do in support of students!
Read this full story and more in the 2026 Community Report Card.
Celebrating Culture and Connection at Roseneath Centennial PS Pow Wow
The annual Pow Wow at Roseneath Centennial Public School (CPS) in June was a day grounded in culture, celebration and learning. This sacred gathering was supported and led by members from Alderville First Nation, including Council Members Kassie McKeown and Jason Marsden, Elder Melody Crowe and Superintendent James Brake.
Students from Alderville First Nation along with First Nation students from other regions shared their culture with the school community, dressing in vibrant regalia and participating in dances and drumming. Students without regalia were invited at different times to dance in inter-tribal dances to learn and participate. Grade 8 students were also invited to participate in an honour dance to celebrate their entrance into high school.
The year’s Pow Wow offered a memorable experience for all. Filled with learning, celebration, and ceremony, this day brought the community together in a meaningful and joyful way!
Read this full story and more in the 2026 Community Report Card.
Standing Up Against Bullying!
KPR is committed to fostering safe, welcoming and inclusive school environments that support student learning, achievement and well-being. A key part of this commitment is the prevention of all forms of bullying.
Schools across KPR participate in anti-bullying activities throughout the year. One example of this work is the Anti-Bullying/Friendship poster contest organized by Charles Bowman Public School (PS). Students in Junior Kindergarten - Grade 6 designed a collection of colourful posters featuring positive messages and bright, welcoming imagery as part of a school-wide contest, with winners selected by the school’s Anti-Bullying Student Team.
Throughout the year, KPR educators guide students in ongoing learning and meaningful conversations about bullying – including the different forms of bullying and their effects, and how to respond if they or someone they know is being bullied. These discussions, along with school-wide initiatives like Pink Shirt Day and poster contests emphasize our shared responsibility to prevent harm, show kindness, and build respectful, caring relationships within our school communities.
Read this full story and more in the 2026 Community Report Card.
KPR Chess Champions
In April, North Shore Public School (PS) in Keene hosted KPR’s second annual Chess Tournament - the biggest that KPR has ever hosted! Thanks to the inspired leadership of North Shore Teacher Alexander Renaud who organized the event, 145 students from 17 schools all over KPR gathered to find out who had the best winning strategy. It was amazing to welcome so many parents, Trustees and staff from across the board to this fantastic event. Great thanks to the Keene Lions Club volunteers who also were instrumental in making this tournament such a success for students.
The North Shore Chess Tournament, organized by Mr. Renaud, is something my students enjoy thoroughly. After playing last year, I had students ask me this September if we were going to be going to the chess tournament again. For many students, making the chess team is the highlight of their school year. I hope this event continues for many years to come.
I believe that all children need to feel a sense of belonging. The chance to train, try out, and make a team for an activity is an empowering experience for any child. As soon as a child gets to put on their school’s jersey, they know they are a part of something bigger. The North Shore Chess Tournament, organized by Mr. Renaud, allowed over 100 students to come together and compete. I already cannot wait to sign-up my students next year.
Read this full story and more in the 2026 Community Report Card.
Skilled Trades Winners
Two talented students from Campbellford District High School won the Construction Skilled Trades Competition held in February at Loyalist College in Belleville!
Congratulations to Noah Marsh and Carter McCredie, who showcased their incredible craftsmanship by building a beautifully constructed bench and two wooden planters.
Their hard work, teamwork, and attention to detail earned them first place — an outstanding achievement!
Read this full story and more in the 2026 Community Report Card.
Thomas A. Stewart SS
Special Olympics Bocce Qualifying Championship
In February, Thomas A. Stewart Secondary School (TASSS) hosted a regional Special Olympics Bocce Qualifying Championship. Through partnership with Special Olympics Ontario, local police, medical and student volunteers, and championed by organizing teacher Cindy Wilson and the school’s LLS staff team, this meaningful event included 22 teams and over 100 athletes from local schools. Hosted by TASSS for the fourth time, this incredible competition brings communities together to honour inclusion, recognize diverse abilities and strengths, and celebrate Special Olympic athletes!
Read this full story and more in the 2026 Community Report Card.
East Northumberland SS
Successful Track Season at ENSS
The ENSS track and field team had an amazing season, securing their 41st Bay of Quinte Championship. There were many outstanding performances, with 70 athletes advancing to the COSSA Championships in Peterborough and 37 qualifying for East Regionals, where several placed in the top three. Congratulations on a successful season!
Read this full story and more in the 2026 Community Report Card.
Norwood District HS
Norwood DHS Hosts OFSAA
In June, Norwood District High School was honoured to host the 2026 OFSAA Provincial Girls Soccer Championship.
This amazing event brought 20 teams of student athletes, families, staff, and volunteers together from across the province to build new friendships and make lasting memories through competition and fun.
Congratulations to everyone, and our thanks and appreciation to the many staff and volunteers who work so tirelessly to make wonderful opportunities like this possible.
Read this full story and more in the 2026 Community Report Card.