Year-End Message From the CEO

Dear HWDSB Community, 

It is remarkable to recognize that we have reached the final day of the 2025-2026 school year. Each year seems to pass more quickly than the last, and this one has been truly exceptional. Across our school board, we have celebrated important milestones, witnessed outstanding student achievement, and advanced the priorities outlined in our Multi-Year Strategic Plan and Board Improvement Plan. 

Throughout my visits to schools and conversations with students, I have been continually inspired by the strength, diversity, and spirit of our community. I leave this year with a deep sense of pride in what we have accomplished together and confidence in the path ahead. 

As we enter the summer months, our students will follow many different paths. Some will continue their learning, pursue new opportunities through work or volunteering, or prepare for the next stage of their journey beyond K to 12 education. 

To those moving from elementary to secondary school, I look forward to seeing your continued growth and success in the coming year. You are becoming more confident, capable, and independent learners every day. Carry your curiosity, kindness, and determination with you as you take this exciting next step to secondary school. 

To the students who are completing their time with HWDSB, thank you. You have contributed meaningfully to your schools and communities, and you leave a legacy. I am confident that the knowledge, skills, and values you have gained and developed here will guide you well in the years ahead. Wherever your journey leads, I encourage you to move forward with confidence, purpose, and a commitment to the values that guide HWDSB: dignity, compassion, trust, and joy. 

To our HWDSB staff, thank you for your unwavering dedication, professionalism, and care. Each day, you make a difference in the lives of students and families whether your work is inside or outside the classroom. For many of you, this marks a well-earned opportunity to rest, recharge, and return renewed for the year ahead. For those whose work continues throughout the summer months, thank you for all that you do to maintain our schools and learning environments and to prepare our spaces for a strong start to the upcoming school year. Your contributions are essential and deeply appreciated. 

To our parents, caregivers, and families, thank you for your trust, your partnership, and your ongoing support. We are honoured that you choose HWDSB and entrust us with your children’s education. Together, we create the conditions for student success, and that shared commitment is both valued and essential. 

Thank you to every member of the HWDSB community for helping to create a place where everyone can learn, grow, and thrive. 

While we are ready to close this chapter and reflect on all that the 2025-2026 school year has brought, I look forward to kicking off another outstanding year at HWDSB on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.  

As you begin your summer, take a moment to watch our year-end video and celebrate the impact we’ve made together over the past year. It’s a powerful reflection of what we accomplish and how we live our values –dignity, compassion, trust and joy!  
At HWDSB, we are proud to serve and proud to partner with you on your child's educational journey.  

I wish you all a safe, restful, and enjoyable summer.  

Happy Summer!  

Sincerely,  

Sheryl Robinson Petrazzini 

HWDSB CEO