Parent Engagement Committees:
PIC and SEAC
Parent Involvement Committee
The Parent Involvement Committee (PIC) brings together elementary and secondary parent representatives from across Durham Region, working in partnership with Durham District School Board (DDSB) staff. Together, the PIC engages parents and guardians through district-wide events and provides the school board with valuable input to support children’s learning both at home and at school. Additionally, the PIC shares resources and guidance with School Community Councils (SCCs) and collaborates with various DDSB departments to deliver sessions and resources that enhance parent, guardian, and caregiver involvement—ultimately fostering student engagement and success.
As part of its mandate, the PIC hosts Regional SCC meetings as an opportunity to network and exchange ideas during an evening dedicated to information sharing and collaboration. The Committee also helps administer the Parent Reaching Out (PRO) Grants program, which funds initiatives aimed at addressing barriers that may hinder families from fully engaging in their children’s education.
To further its mission of family engagement, the PIC organizes virtual Speaker Series events annually, inspired by family feedback, and offered as “School Watch Party” events, encouraging families to gather at local schools to watch and discuss the topics together. In addition, PIC produces three e-newsletters for families each year. In 2024, speakers included DDSB’s Positive School Climates team “Parenting in the Age of Social Media”, Ian Brown “The Lighter Side of Mental Health”, and Dr. Robyne Hanley Dafoe “Everyday Resiliency & Hope”.
Finally, the Committee plays a key role in supporting the annual Volunteer of Distinction Recognition event. This celebration honours one volunteer from each school—nominated by their Principal and SCC—for their outstanding commitment and contributions to their school communities. Through this event, the PIC acknowledges the vital role that volunteers play in fostering vibrant and engaged school environments.
Special Education Advisory Committee
Under Ontario’s Education Act, every student is entitled to a program which meets their needs. In Durham, our Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) serves as a connection point for our families of exceptional students and helps the Board protect the rights of students with special learning needs. SEAC provides information, advice and assistance to parents/guardians whose exceptional children may require additional support. SEAC advises and makes recommendations to the Board concerning the establishment and development of special education programs and services.
Our exceptional students are those whose behavioural, communicational, intellectual, physical, or multiple exceptionalities are such that the student needs a specialized placement or support as identified by the Identification, Placement, and Review Committee (I.P.R.C.) The mission of the Durham District School Board’s (DDSB) Special Education program is to provide a range of programs, placements, and services for students with special needs in a supportive environment which enables them to develop to their full potential. Our on-going commitment is to provide the structures and support each student needs to foster their growth and development in programs which promote integration and independence as defined for each student based on their strengths and needs.
SEAC meetings are a forum for SEAC members to provide advice and discussion of Board programs and support services for exceptional pupils. Meetings are made accessible to families and community by YouTube livestream; a public gallery is an option for pre-registered guests. Please see our website for more information and links to livestream meetings.