August 25, 2023
Dear UTS Staff,
As we come to the end of August, many staff feel anxious about the start of the new school year. This feeling, also known as the "End of Summer Scaries," can be even more intense than the "Sunday Scaries."
I want to reassure you that I have experienced all of these anxieties, including the "New Principal Scaries," and I know we can overcome them together.
In my first three weeks as Principal, I have already seen that we can achieve our mission of being an outstanding educational institution while also having fun.
I can’t wait to see everyone next week!
Leanne
Welcome Back!
As noted in the Staff Calendar, we are welcoming teachers back on Wednesday, August 30 and Thursday, August 31 for Professional Development and Activities. A more detailed agenda will be shared on Monday next week.
Teacher Timetables
While most, if not all teachers should know their assigned classes and schedule, HERE is a folder with individual PDF files that show each teacher's timetable as well as on-call and lunch supervision assignments.
In addition, teacher Google Calendars will be synched soon so teachers will have their schedule for the year.
Reminder About Fobs
A note for both new and returning staff. Please connect with Facilities to update your fob so that you can access the Huron and Bloor doors.
Fob access for Washington and the bike room is coming soon.
HR Mandatory Refresher Training
All returning staff should keep an eye out in their inbox next week for two mandatory refresher training modules which will be sent through HRDownloads:
Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) Refresher Course (33 minutes)
Workplace Violence and Harassment Refresher Course (31 minutes)
All new staff will also receive an email from HRDownloads next week which will include comprehensive courses on AODA, workplace harassmement and violence, as well as health and safety and a number of policy sign offs.
Google Chat Access
During the summer the decision was made to remove student access to Google Chat.
It is important for all to be aware as we know some teachers and supervisors use this function to communicate with students and student groups around projects or other work.
We will provide more context and detail during PD.
Room Bookings
We would like to advise all staff that we are in the process of setting up new CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management Systems) software for January 2024. Staff will be reminded of the new changes and room booking procedures in December.
In the interim, Rschool is online until December 31.
Staff can register their Rschool account at this link;
To register, click "Sign In With Google" and follow the instructions.
Rooms not listed on Rschool can be booked through Facilities via email request.
Student Locker Assignments
Students will receive their locker assignments and schedules (via Google Calendar) on August 31/September 1.
