Beyond the Bell

In this episode, host Chantelle Quesnelle sits down with Tanya Bedard, SMCDSB’s Information and Privacy Officer, to talk about how data is being used to support wellbeing across our schools. They explore how school climate surveys, research partnerships, and tools like engage w/ SMCDSB are helping staff and families stay connected and involved. You’ll also hear how teams across the board are using...

When it comes to substance use, many parents and caregivers aren't sure how to support the young people in their lives. Host Chantelle Quesnelle and guest Sarah Cairns, a public health nurse with the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit, discuss why connection is key, how to recognize signs of concern, and how to approach conversations with care and curiosity. If you're looking for more information...

Ever said, “I’m just not a math person”? You’re not alone. But what if we told you that mindset matters more than natural ability? In this episode of Beyond the Bell, Chantelle sits down with Assistant Superintendent & Math Lead Siobhain Millen to tackle one of the biggest myths about math. Discover how a growth mindset can reshape the way we (and our kids!) approach math, why struggle is an e...

In the most recent Community Connect episode, we explore the Spark'd Program at CFS Counseling + Well-Being, with Noor Sidiqui, Newcomer Outreach Coordinator. Spark'd provides free support for newcomers in Simcoe County, offering group programs, conversation circles, social events, and one-on-one guidance to help individuals build connections and improve their English. Tune in to hear how Spark'd...

How do schools respond to potential threats? This episode breaks down the multistep process used to assess risk, provide support, and ensure student safety. Hear from Lisa Hickling-Miller, School Counselor and Threat Assessment & Prevention Trainer at Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board, about the importance of early intervention and collaboration.

As part of Beyond the Bell’s special Community Connect series, today’s episode highlights PFLAG and The Gilbert Centre with special guests, Ellis Greenberg and Daniela C. Advocates for queer and trans communities in the Simcoe Muskoka area, they share personal stories and insights on the importance of community support for queer and trans youth. They also discuss how families can create safer, mor...

In this episode of Beyond the Bell, we speak with Tarra Madigan, a member of the Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board’s Catholic Parent Involvement Committee (CPIC), about the many ways parents can get involved in their children’s school community. From attending events to simple gestures of support, Tarra shares how parents can make a difference—whether or not they’re on the council. Tun...

In the first episode of our Beyond the Bell mini-series, Community Connect, Chantelle sits down with Natasha Shakespeare, founder of Parents Against Racism Simcoe County (PARSC). They discuss mental health challenges faced by Black youth, the value of culturally affirming care, and the innovative Harambe Programme, which provides mental health and tutoring support. Gain practical insights on build...

Chantelle welcomes Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board elementary guidance teachers, Nicole Nicoletta, and Sara Vause. Listen as they delve into the challenges and strategies for successfully transitioning students from elementary to secondary school. This episode covers the importance of self-advocacy, effective communication, and the resources available to support students and parents...

In this episode of “Beyond The Bell”, we welcome Shania, a grade 12 student at Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board. Our conversation looks at the critical role of student voice in shaping educational policies and school environments. This episode is a must-listen for parents, students, and educators eager to understand and amplify the impact of student voices in creating dynamic and incl...

Discover how small changes in transportation habits can create healthier and more sustainable lifestyles by tuning in to the insightful conversation between Chantelle and Sherry Diaz, a public health nurse, on "Beyond The Bell." Learn about the benefits of active transportation for physical health, mental well-being, and community safety, and be inspired to make a positive difference in your daily...

Ontario has updated its language curriculum. In our latest episode, Chantelle and guest, Elementary Program Coordinator, Jonathan Rajalingam unpack the changes and how they impact report cards. They also offer insight into how parents and caregivers can foster literacy skills at home. Don't miss this important conversation!

In our latest Beyond the Bell episode, Chantelle is joined by Murray Watson, Adult Faith Formation Animator at the Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board, to explore how Catholic education goes beyond academics to shape empowered and insightful individuals. Murray offers perspectives on nurturing unique gifts for a positive impact. Join the conversation for the message of hope in this insig...

Join us as Chantelle delves into the critical issue of youth vaping. Joined by guest Kevin Kuiack, Assistant Superintendent of Safe and Accepting Schools, we explore the alarming rise of vaping among youth in the Simcoe Muskoka region. Hear from student leaders who provide local statistics and facts about vaping, shedding light on the challenges schools face in addressing this complex issue. The d...

In this podcast episode, our guest is Brad Shoreman, the Principal of Adult Continuing and Community Education at the Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board. Join us as Brad and Chantelle explore how Continuing Education programs empower students to discover unique pathways to success. From Aquatics Leadership to Personal Support Worker Training, and beyond, there are so many opportunities...

In this podcast, Chantelle is joined by Michael Timpano - Secondary ICT Consultant at Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board. Listen as they go beyond the bell and into the world of technology in education. They discuss the challenges and opportunities it brings, from AI-generated assignments to innovative learning methods. Discover how tech is transforming not only classrooms but our futur...

Join us as we dive into the intricate world of classroom assignments. With 42 elementary schools in our vibrant school board, discover the art of balancing student needs, staff dynamics, and school goals. Our guest, Deanna Neville-Virardi, takes us beyond the bell as we unravel the hidden factors, decision-making insights, and challenges of embracing change. Calling all parents and caregivers – th...

In this episode of the Beyond the Bell podcast, host Chantelle Quesnelle explores the topic of emergency preparedness in schools. Joined by George Luck, a principal with over 27 years of experience, they discuss various types of emergencies schools prepare for, the difference between procedures and practices, and the importance of drills and preparedness in reducing anxiety and ensuring safety. Fr...

This episode explores how Individual Education Plans (IEPs) can provide the necessary tools and accommodations to help students with special needs succeed and achieve their full potential. Chantelle goes beyond the bell and into understanding IEPs with her guest, Cheryl Luymes, Special Eduation Coordinator at the SMCDSB.

with Wade Tower, Secondary Program Coordinator.

For a large part of his career Michael Van Geene has been a Board-certified, Applied Behaviour Analyst. Using the principles of learning, Michael addresses the behavioural needs of students in the classroom. In this episode of Beyond the Bell, he brings his expertise to the conversation about school team meetings. Listen as Michael and Chantelle give you an inside look into what it means to get "T...

Our guest today, Mary Day-Mauro, a curriculum consultant at Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board, brings us beyond the bell and into the classrooms of our youngest learners!

Welcome to Beyond the Bell Podcast (formerly OnPoint Parenting) where you will get an inside look into school life. You’ll hear about topics that you might already be familiar with, but we’ll go a little deeper and give you a glimpse into the behind the scenes action in the world of education.

On this episode, Chantelle has a conversation with Amanda Lamb from Pine River Institute in follow up to parent webinars that were presented this spring. Together, they go deeper into the topic of screen time and parenting. You will also hear from our student voice correspondents, Emma and Isabella, as they talk with Chantelle about social media and cell phone use from the perspectives of secondar...

Listening to this mini episode provides an opportunity to acknowledge the everyday mental health practices you and your family are already doing. These small actions have a great impact. We invite you to listen to this mini episode with your child or teen as a way to continue the conversation about mental health.