From the Director’s Desk: April Edition

Dear Families, Caregiver, and Communities,  

As we enter April, I want to offer an opportunity to reflect ahead of Mental Health Week, which takes place from May 4 to 10. This period encourages us to pause and consider the importance of mental health and well-being across our schools and communities. 

At our most recent Board meeting, I spoke about the fact that we now have just three months left in the school year. This is an important time for students and families—a final stretch where learning comes together and progress feels more visible. Students are working toward personal milestones, academic achievements, and finishing the year strong—and these weeks truly matter. We know this period can feel busy and, at times, challenging, which is why caring for mental health remains so important. Supporting wellbeing helps students stay focused, motivated, and proud of what they are accomplishing as they move toward the end of the school year. 

As part of our Multi-Year Strategic Plan, HWDSB is committed to building a sustainable public education system in Hamilton. This commitment guides how we support students, build inclusive school environments, and work in partnership with families, caregivers, and community organizations to strengthen mental health and well-being for all. 

HWDSB recognises that learning and well-being are deeply connected. When students feel safe, supported, and valued, they are better able to learn, grow, and thrive. Mental health support is enhanced by solid partnerships between schools, families, caregivers, and community organizations. 

Throughout April and as we approach Mental Health Week, we invite families and community members to take time for connection, to check in with one another, and to seek support when needed. Together, we can continue building inclusive school communities that support both learning and well-being.  

I also want to share an important reminder for students and families: mental health supports are available to HWDSB students 24 hours a day, seven days a week. These supports are here for you, whenever you need them. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, and students are encouraged to connect with trusted adults and access available resources. To learn more about these resources, I encourage you to click here and visit HWDSB Mental Health and Well-Being.  

In addition to HWDSB supports, students and families will find useful mental health information and supports created by School Mental Health Ontario. Please visit: By your side – Parents and caregivers – School Mental Health Ontario 

Thank you for being an important part of the HWDSB community and for your ongoing support of student success and strong mental health. 

Sincerely,  

Sheryl  

Sheryl Robinson Petrazzini, Director of Education – HWDSB

April Days of Significance 

Sikhi Heritage Month (1)
Genocide Awareness Month (1)
Pesach / Passover (Judaism) (1)
Hanuman Jayanti (Sanatan Hindu Dharma) (1)
World Autism Day/April is World Autism Month (2)
Theravada New Year (Buddhism) (2)
Maundy Thursday – Lent ends (Christianity) (2)
Good Friday (Christianity and Canadian Holiday) (No School) (3)
Easter Sunday (Christianity and Canadian Holiday) (5)
Palm Sunday (Orthodox) (5)
International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (6)
Easter Monday (Christianity and Canadian Holiday) (No School) (6)
International Day of Pink (8)
Holy Friday (Orthodox Christianity) (10)
Pascha – Orthodox Easter (Orthodox Christianity) (12)
Bright Monday (Orthodox Christianity) (13)
Yom HaShoah/Holocaust Remembrance Day (Judaism) (14)
Vaisakhi / Khalsa Day (Sikhi) (14)
World Art Day (15)
National Volunteer Week (19)
First Day of Ridván (Baháʼí Faith) (21)
Earth Day (22)
Yom Ha’Atzmaut (Israeli Independence Day) (Judaism) (22)
Administrative Professionals Day (22)
Professional School Bus Driver Appreciation Day (28)
National Day of Mourning (28)
Ninth Day of Ridván (Baháʼí Faith) (29)
Maidyozarem Ghambar (F) (Zoroastrainism) (30)