Guidance

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Guidance is an area where students can receive assistance with educational planning, career goals, personal counselling, or referrals to outside agencies.  Guidance counsellors are teachers with additional expertise in the area of Guidance and Career Education and are trained to help students make informed decisions about their future.

Follow us on Facebook (USSGuidance) and Instagram (ussguidance)!

Contact Us - Counsellors, Appointments, Transcripts
Please contact our Guidance Secretary, Mrs. Vallier, with general inquiries: laura.vallier@ddsb.ca , (905)852-3391 x261020
Who is my Guidance Counsellor?
Where to book a Guidance Appointment?
Click the following link for instructions: How to book a Guidance Appointment
Student are also welcome to email their guidance counsellor or message them in their Google Classroom with questions they may have about timetables, volunteer hours, resources....
Any student who is in crisis is welcomed in the Guidance office. Just ask your teacher to let us know that you are on your way!
Parents who wish to schedule an appointment can do so with their child or by calling Mrs. Vallier.
 
 Transcript Request Form

Current and former USS students can obtain a transcript request form by using the link below.

Transcript Request Form

Courses & Programs - Course Selection, Course Catalogue, myBlueprint, Specialty Programs
It's an exciting part of every school year to select which courses you'd like to take for the following year. Here is lots of information to help you along with this process. At any point in the process, students can book themselves an appointment to speak with their counsellor about their plans.
General Information 
Grade 8 Parent/Guardian Information
Course Catalogue 
Course Catalogue 
myBlueprint 
myBlueprint website 
Specialty Programs 
Academy for student athlete development 
Designed to support high school aged student athletes as they strive for success at regional, provincial, national & international levels of competition, the Academy for Student Athlete Development (ASAD) provides one of the most unique and inclusive models to support student athletes on able-bodied, parasport, and Special Olympic performance pathways. For more information, check out the Durham District School Board's page on ASAD. 
Co-operative Education 
A Co-operative Education program allows students to gain secondary school credits while completing a work placement in the community. This program helps students prepare for apprenticeships, college, university or the workplace. For more information, check out USS's Co-operative Education page. 
 Specialist High Skills Majors (SHSM)
Specialist High Skills Majors (SHSMs) let students focus on a career path that matches their skills and interests while still meeting the requirements of the Ontario Secondary School Diploma. Students receive the SHSM seal on their diploma when they:

  • complete a specific bundle of 8-10 courses in the student's selected field

  • earn valuable industry certifications including first aid and CPR qualifications

  • gain important skills on the job through cooperative education placements.

At USS, we have four SHSMs to choose from. Ask in person in guidance for more information about these amazing opportunities. You will be automatically enrolled in the SHSM once you take the respective Grade 11 course.
 Summer School
Summer school registration can be completed in myBlueprint.  Registration instructions can be found using the attached document.
 
 

Transitions - New Students & Registrations, Grade 8 Info, Grade 9 Info, Graduation Info, Post-Secondary Planning
 New Students/Registration
 Registration information
 Grade 8's

Grade 8 Transitions Timeline 2024-25 (USS Class of 2029!)

December 2024 - Grade 8's from our 'Family of Schools' visit Uxbridge SS

February 6th, 2025 (6-7:30pm) - Grade 8 Parent/Guardian Information Night (Course Selection), USS Cafeteria/LLC  

Click here to view the presentation from February 6th. 

February 2025 - Course Selection in MyBlueprint - OPENS February 11th and DUE February 25th (OR earlier, if your Gr. 8 teacher has given you a deadline that differs from ours!)

May 2025 - Grade 8 Spirit Day (at USS) - for all students REGISTERED to attend USS in September 2025

September 2025 - Grade 9 Day (First Day of School!)
Grade 9's
 Graduation
Grade 12's .... Join the USS Grade 12's Google Classroom for up-to-date notifications of events, dates, deadlines, etc. Contact Mrs. Ridgway for the link code!
THE USS GRADUATING CLASS OF 2025 IMPORTANT INFORMATION
The link above contains important information about:

  • Guidance Appointments

  • Post-Secondary, Graduation

  • myBlueprint Course Selection for 2024/25 (OR what to do if you're not returning)

  • OSAP, and

  • other Post-Secondary Funding
 
 
Post Secondary Planning 

Post Secondary Planning Information 
Post Secondary Information Night Presentation - September 26th, 2024
 

Help & Support - Mental Wellness, Tutoring, Community Service, Volunteer Hours, Job Opportunities
 
 Mental Wellness
Welcome. Thank you for stopping by.
When it comes to Mental Health and Well-Being, start with the basics .... diet, exercise, sleep, communication, involvement, asking for help, and time for yourself are all important for your mental health. If you are struggling with these basics or you feel that it's not enough and you need more support please check out the interactive board below, the list of links, and of course please reach out to a member of our Guidance Staff to explore resources and counselling options.
Here is a list of fabulous resources that are all direct links:
Durham Region Mental Health Resources
Cam's Kids
mindyourmind - exists in the space where mental health, wellness, engagement and technology meet
The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
kidshelphone.ca, 1-800-668-6868
Durham 24/7 Distress Helpline 1-800-452-0688

https://www.ourvoicematters.net/

 https://jack.org/Home

 https://www.headspace.com/

 
 Tutoring

*Note - It is the responsibility of the student/family to assess the suitability of all tutors posted on this site.* 

 

NEED A TUTOR?
Here is a list of community/student tutors working for a fee: USS Community Tutors
Student tutors working for community service hours are also available.  Speak to Guidance for more information.
Interested in being a community tutor? Complete this Google Form.
Interested in being a student tutor? Complete this application form, get it signed by a parent/guardian, and submit it to Guidance.

The USS Science Department is now hosting an extra help session/room once a week on Tuesday afternoons from 2:00pm - 3:00pm. Click HERE to access the Science Google Site to learn more.

Online support for Math and Science:
www.khanacademy.org - This is a fantastic site with many, many videos explaining specific math/science concepts. It's free, but you are invited to make a donation.
Mathify... homework help for grades 7-10 math.

 

DURHAM BLACK EDUCATORS’ NETWORK

ELEVATE AND EXPAND: COACHING FOR EXCELLENCE

With our continuous focus on optimizing educational experiences and strengthening our commitment to enhancing academic equitable outcomes, in partnership with DDSB’s Student Achievement and Curriculum Department and Minds-On, Durham Black Educators’ Network (DBEN) has created Elevate and Expand: Coaching for Excellence. In it’s 3rd year, this virtual tutoring support program is for Durham District School Board students in Grades 6 – 12who identify as a part of Durham’s Black diaspora.

 

Virtual 1:1 support will be offered through Google Meet. Students will be matched with tutors based on academic strengths and needs, and our tutors’ teaching qualifications. Students will be provided 1 hour of complimentary tutoring per week.

 

Elementary students’ sessions will run throughout each term and Secondary students’ sessions will be based on semesters.

 

Families are kindly asked to complete the Elevate & Expand: Coaching for Excellence Registration Form below, including the media release by 4pm on November 16th .

 

2022-2023 Elevate & Expand: Coaching for Excellence Registration Form

 

Sessions will begin during the week of November 28th 2022

For more information, please send your inquiries to our Program Coordinator at elevate@minds-on.com.

STRESSED FOR THE TEST?
Tests and Exams can be stressful! We have created a presentation that outlines some of the fears that come with tests/exams and how to deal with them by preparing and implementing some useful strategies.
Exams Can Be Stressful: How to Deal with It!
 Community Service Hours and Information
Please see below for all of the details and links you need for your Community Service Hours Graduation Requirement
*Once you have complete your hours, please bring your printed form(s) to
Mrs. Vallier, our guidance secretary, so that they can be approved and inputted.
Community Involvement Graduation Requirement

Students can start accumulating their community involvement hours in the summer before entering Grade 9.

Students may wish to consider virtual volunteering, such as connecting with seniors, organizing virtual fundraising events and facilitating discussions with newcomer youth. Outdoor volunteer opportunities could include, for example, picking up litter. Volunteer opportunities, such as connecting young people to be technology mentors to seniors, can be found through agencies such as Spark Ontario.

In addition, the Ministry is providing increased flexibility in how all secondary students can earn hours. At the principal’s discretion, students may count the following towards their community involvement hours:

  • Community involvement during school time, for example, walking a younger child to and from school or helping younger siblings with school work

  • Duties normally performed at home, for example, helping an elderly relative with errands or providing after school care for a sibling

These hours spent in the community are meant to encourage students to:

  • Develop an awareness and understanding of civic responsibility

  • Understand the role they play and contributions they can make to support and strengthen the community

  • Learn more about themselves and possible career opportunities

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT ACTIVITY RECORD

Make sure you keep your Community Involvement Activity Record forms up-to-date with the proper information and signatures. You must submit your completed records to your school for data entry.

REQUIREMENTS

These community activities must:

  • Be completed outside scheduled class time

  • Not be a part of a credit course

  • Be unpaid

  • Total a minimum of 40 hours

  • Be complete by the end of grade 12

ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES

The Ministry and DDSB have developed a list of activities students may (eligible) or may not (ineligible) choose. Click here for a comprehensive list of eligible activities and suggestions

OPPORTUNITIES

If you're unsure what you want to do for your community hours, check out Volunteer Durham and Youth Opportunities Ontario.
 Volunteer and Job Opportunities
 

 Volunteer Opportunities

*Note - It is the responsibility of the student/family to assess the suitability of all opportunities posted on this site.*

The Whole Enchilada - Trail Race

June 21st, 2025 - Uxbridge Trails

Needing volunteers to help marshal the trails, etc.

Each volunteer will also get a FREE t-shirt and a bagged lunch provided. 

More information on how you can sign up to volunteer can be found here:

POP-UP SALE - Closet Angels - Volunteers needed!

Dates/Times: Friday, May 30th from 10am* - 6pm, and Saturday, May 31st from 9am - 3pm

*Note: Students cannot volunteer during scheduled class time. You may start your hours as soon as you can get there after school. 

Location: Sacred Heart Church Hall
70 Toronto Street N - Uxbridge
All proceeds are going to Julliette's Place Women's Shelter in Scarborough
Donated clothing - all high-end name brands!
Required duties: help with sales and restocking
Looking for 5 volunteers each day
If interested please call Theresa at 416-738-1243
or E-mail deja_vu103@hotmail.com

Run for the Diamond (5km/10km) - Uxbridge Hospital Auxiliary

Looking for TRAIL MARSHALS for the event. 
Elgin Park - Sunday, June 22nd, 2025 - 6:30am to 10am
Contact: Michelle Baker, UHA RFD Coordinator
416-409-4485
kukla1@hotmail.com

St. Joseph's Catholic School - Year End Carnival!

Thursday, June 12th - 5-9pm

Help with set up and take down, and working at different stations such as - temporary tattoos, face painting, henna art, slime, photo booth etc.

Contact Julie at 289-314-6451 

Uxbridge Library - Reading Buddies

Looking for reading buddies for Tuesdays and Thursdays after school for the months of April and May (see poster below for more details). Contact andrea.stewart@uxlib.com if you're interested!

Uxbridge & District Curling Club 

The Uxbridge Curling Club is hoping to compile a list of students who need volunteer hours and would like to help out in the kitchen for future bonspiels. 

If you'd like to be on their contact list, please email the club at info@uxbridgecurlingclub.com 

Uxbridge Hospital Auxiliary has been affording students the opportunity to complete their required volunteer hours for several years. Greet. direct and answer patient and visitor enquiries at the main entrance to the hospital. Training will be provided.

3 pm 6 pm Monday to Thursday.

Contact Bev Latva, Director of Volunteers at uchauxiliary@oakvalleyhealth.ca or (905)852-9777 ext 5237

*See Brochure below for additional volunteer opportunities, including helping out at "Chances Are" in the evenings, or on Saturdays!

ReachView Village

ReachView Village is looking for volunteers to help with their senior residents. Scheduling is ongoing but volunteers will need to have a police check completed.  Contact Carlisle Britton at carlisle.britton@reveraliving.com (905) 852-9747.

Butternut Manor Volunteer Opportunity

Butternut Manor Volunteer InfoDurham Youth Health VolunteerImage preview

TAB Volunteer Hours 

 
Job Postings

*Note - It is the responsibility of the student/family to assess the suitability of all jobs posted on this site.*

Job Title: General Labourer
Job Location: Seaway Water Supply – Claremont Yard or Sunderland yard
Job Type: Summer April 1- August 31
Job Description: We are seeking a hardworking and reliable General Laborer to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for performing various physical tasks to support daily operations. Duties may include loading and unloading materials, operating basic tools and equipment, cleaning shop and yard, painting equipment, washing trucks, cutting and assisting drivers as needed.
Responsibilities:
  • Perform general physical tasks such as lifting, carrying, and moving materials
  • Assist with construction, yard and shop duties as needed
  • Operate hand and power tools safely and efficiently
  • Maintain a clean and organized work environment
  • Follow all safety guidelines and company procedures
  • Assist owner with basic mechanical repair (oil change), yard or shop duties, or maintenance as needed
  • Responsible for keeping trucks, equipment yard and shop clean and organized.
Requirements:
  • Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting up to 50 lbs
  • Willingness to work in various weather conditions and environments
  • Basic knowledge of hand and power tools required
  • Strong work ethic and ability to follow instruction
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Must have a driver's license and be able to pick up parts and deliveries as needed.
Apply today. Send your resume to dennissws@bellnet.ca
 
 
Is your organization looking for volunteers?  Post your opportunity here ...
LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS?

If you are part of a non-profit organization/individual and would like to post a community service / volunteer opportunity, please email Karen Gillespie (Guidance) at karen.gillespie@ddsb.ca.

Be sure to include your email address, phone number and CLEARLY state the details about your opportunity (including times, dates and locations).