The Ottawa Catholic District School Board (OCSB) is a publicly funded separate school board located in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Established through the amalgamation of the former Ottawa and Carleton Roman Catholic School Boards on January 1, 1998, the board was initially named the Ottawa-Carleton Catholic School Board before adopting its current name on March 27, 2007, to reflect the consolidation of the City of Ottawa and emphasize its Catholic identity.

Overview

The OCSB serves approximately 43,000 students across 84 schools, ranging from kindergarten to grade 12. Its schools are situated throughout the Ottawa region, with headquarters in the Nepean area of the city. The board provides a faith-based, publicly funded education that integrates Catholic values with academic excellence.

Educational Programs and Innovation

The Ottawa Catholic School Board is recognized for its commitment to innovation and technological advancement in education. It offers a broad spectrum of programs including English as a Second Language (ESL) courses at elementary, intermediate, and secondary levels to support international students and non-native English speakers.

The board's dedication to technological integration was notably recognized when one of its elementary schools won the Canadian National “Classroom of the Future” Challenge for innovative teaching practices and the use of modern technology in the classroom. The Canadian Education Association has also cited the OCSB as a model for digital transformation in education.

Schools and Services

The OCSB operates numerous elementary and secondary schools, including notable high schools such as All Saints Catholic High School, Holy Trinity Catholic High School, Immaculata High School, Mother Teresa High School, and St. Patrick’s High School, among others. Some adult education and intermediate schools also fall under its jurisdiction.

Commitment to Indigenous Education

The board actively promotes Indigenous education, reconciliation, and cultural awareness throughout its schools. It incorporates Indigenous language, culture, and teachings into daily learning experiences. For example, students create meaningful land acknowledgements to honor Indigenous history and foster respect within the community. The OCSB organizes various events and initiatives during Indigenous History Month and beyond to celebrate and educate about Indigenous heritage.

Historical Context

Founded in the mid-19th century (since 1856), the Ottawa Catholic School Board has evolved alongside the growth of the Ottawa area, adapting to changing demographics and educational needs while maintaining its Catholic mission.

This summary provides an outline of the Ottawa Catholic District School Board as a major Catholic school authority in Ontario, distinguished by its educational offerings, community engagement, and innovation in pedagogical practices[1][2][4][5].