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Professional Activity (PA) Days

The HDSB, along with all school boards in Ontario, have several Professional Activity (PA) Days throughout the school year. The purpose of these days is to enhance student success. Staff focus on professional development activities, participate in training or planning sessions. There are no classes for students on these days. ​ ​

​PA Day Topics and Activities ​

2026-2027 School Year

Throughout the year, the HDSB remains focused on fulfilling the Ontario Ministry of Education’s priorities, including consistent classroom delivery and new curriculum updates, Special Education and Individual Education Plans (IEPs), keeping schools safe and cyber safety and artificial intelligence. Details about the specific focus of each individual PA Day will be shared below at least two weeks in advance.

Format: Full day, in-person

Description: Staff will take part in learning focused on supporting students with special education needs. This will include reviewing key components of Individual Education Plans (IEPs), including student strengths and needs, accommodations, modifications, learning expectations, teaching strategies and ways to monitor student progress.

Educators will also strengthen their understanding of how to develop clear and measurable learning goals, use appropriate instructional and assessment strategies and effectively implement and update IEPs in classroom practice. Learning will also focus on communication and consultation with families about special education programs and services, as well as educators’ roles in the Identification, Placement and Review Committee (IPRC) process.

Additionally, staff will explore required learning in the Ontario curriculum related to artificial intelligence, digital literacy and cyber security. This will include professional learning on cyber safety, online privacy and technology-related risks to help support student safety and responsible use of digital tools.

Learning/Delivery Model: Whole group presentations and small group learning and reflection.

Facilitators: School administrators and school-based staff supported with materials and guidance from central departments including Special Education Services and Information Services.

Topic: Consistent Classroom Delivery and New Curriculum Updates, Special Education and Individual Education Plans, Keeping Schools Safe

Format: 

  • Full day, in-person

Description: 

School staff will participate in learning focused on student and school safety, support for students, curriculum and assessment and school improvement. Topics will include safety in schools, bullying and violence prevention, student support and reporting responsibilities, Special Education planning and effective assessment and evaluation practices. 

Staff will also learn about new Ontario curriculum expectations, including Kindergarten STEM and updated History curriculum, as well as changes to secondary school evaluation requirements, including final evaluations, attendance and participation. 

School teams will use this learning to support consistent, safe and effective practices for students across Kindergarten to Grade 12. 

Learning/Delivery Method: 

  • Whole group presentations and small group learning and reflection

Facilitators: 

  • School administrators and school-based staff supported with materials and guidance from central departments including Student Mental Health and Well-Being, Safe Schools and Special Education