Frequently Asked Questions
Does DBEN include educators and students from Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB)?
While DBEN only operates within the Durham District School Board (DDSB), there are many events and initiatives that they host where members of the general public attend and get involved in. An example would be the Community Vendor Market or any of the education information events, etc.
Has DBEN created a Black Studies course?
Yes, DBEN has been instrumental in creating a Black Studies course that has been offered in DDSB secondary schools since 2008. DBEN works in partnership with DDSB’s Anti-Oppression Department to amplify Culturally Responsive and Relevant Curriculum practices. The Black Studies course has been updated and will be relaunched for the school year 2026/27
Are DBEN programming and scholarships open to those outside of DDSB?
At present our student conference programs and scholarship awards are only open to students who identify as Black, currently attending DDSB schools.
How do I enroll my child(ren) in your programs?
For our student programs, DBEN works with administrators and teachers within DDSB schools to connect students to our programming, whether it be our student conferences or awards etc. Throughout the year, programs that are open to the community will be shared with people on our email list and also advertised / shared on our social media pages and website.
How do I become part of DBEN’s Leadership Team?
The DBEN Leadership Team is established through an election process that is run every two years or yearly if needed. Leadership Team positions shall be held by DDSB educators, employees, student alumni and community members, who identify as part of the Black Diaspora in Durham Region.
How do I become an active DBEN member?
General members include interested employees employed by DDSB, high school and post-secondary students, community members and organizations/partners. In order to become a voting member, you need to have paid your yearly membership dues.
Is DBEN a conflict resolution resource or body for Black educators, staff and students?
We focus on developing and implementing programs to support DDSB students and parents/caregivers of the Black diaspora. In addition, we provide opportunities for professional growth for DBEN members who are part of the DDSB. DBEN is always available to help provide guidance and support within the means of their mission mandate. Sometimes the guidance is to direct you to another organization who is better equipped to deal with your query or situation. Below are a list of organizations that can also support you with this type of inquiry.
For resources around this topic please feel free to contact
https://studentandfamilyadvocate.com/
https://parentsofblackchildren.org/
I want to introduce my organization's co-op program to DDSB students. Could I reach out to DBEN?
Connecting with the Durham District School Board’s Teaching and Learning Department would be best, as they oversee the type of business and/or organizations that would be appropriate for co-op programming
I would like to get involved in supporting DBEN financially with one of it’s programs or provide financial assistance for a student scholarship
DBEN is grateful for all financial support and gifts in kind it receives whether it be from individuals who donate or from companies and organizations within the Community and surrounding areas.
If you would like to make a financial contribution to a specific event/initiative or scholarship, please contact our Secretary/Treasurer at nzinga@dben.org.