SmartFind Express TDSB: Your Staff Absence & Dispatch Portal
Quick Summary
- Phone registration is mandatory first
- Manage assignments and unavailability
- Contact support for login issues
The SmartFind Express (SFE) digital portal is an essential online account management system for Toronto District School Board (TDSB) staff. This platform automates the process of managing staff absences and dispatching substitute teachers and support personnel. It streamlines operations, allowing educators and support staff to efficiently handle their schedules and job assignments within the TDSB ecosystem. Designed to connect staff with available positions, SFE acts as a central hub for all absence reporting, job searching, and profile adjustments. Whether you are an occasional teacher looking for an assignment or a support staff member managing your availability, understanding this online system is key to a smooth and productive experience with the TDSB.
- 📋 Activating Your SmartFind Express Staff Account
- 📍 Entering Your SmartFind Express Digital Workspace
- ⭐ Managing Your Absence and Assignment Schedule
- ⚠️ Navigating Access Difficulties in SmartFind Express
- 🔒 Maintaining Account Safety within SmartFind Express
- 🎧 Official Help Desk Contacts
- ❓ Common Queries on SmartFind Express Usage
Activating Your SmartFind Express Staff Account
- You must complete initial registration by phone before you can log in to the web browser interface. This step activates your profile within the system.
- You will need your Person ID number (Access ID) without any leading zeros to register and log in.
- During phone registration, you will create a new personal identification number (PIN) which will serve as your password for online access. This PIN must be between 6 and 9 digits long and cannot contain alphanumeric characters.
Entering Your SmartFind Express Digital Workspace
- Launch a web browser, such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, or Microsoft Edge. Ensure your browser is up-to-date for optimal performance and security.
- Navigate to the official SmartFind Express login page at https://secure.tdsb.on.ca/sfe.
- Enter your User ID Number in the designated field. This is your Person ID number, excluding any preceding zeros.
- Input your Password. This is the personal identification number (PIN) you established during your initial phone registration process.
- Click the Submit button to access your SmartFind Express digital workspace. You may also see an option for TDSB-Single Sign ON for alternative access.
Managing Your Absence and Assignment Schedule
- Profile Management: View and update your personal information, including your address and callback number. Always save any changes you make.
- Schedule Configuration: Adjust your working schedule by removing or adding available days. You can also indicate specific times or days when you prefer not to receive calls for assignments.
- Unavailability Entry: Mark specific dates or periods when you are unable to work. This helps the automated dispatch system avoid calling you during those times. Remember to remove these settings once you become available again.
- Job Searching and Acceptance: Browse available assignments by clicking Available Jobs and selecting your desired dates. You can view job details and accept suitable positions directly through the portal. Make sure to record your job number upon acceptance.
- Assignment Review: Keep track of your past and upcoming job assignments within your account.
Navigating Access Difficulties in SmartFind Express
⚠️ Forgotten Password
Cause: You cannot recall your previously set personal identification number (PIN).
Solution: If you have forgotten your password, click the Forgot Password? link on the login page. Follow the prompts to reset your access credentials. If issues persist, contact the TDSB Dispatch Help Desk.
⚠️ Account Locked Out
Cause: Multiple failed login attempts or an inactive account.
Solution: Wait a short period, then try logging in again carefully. If you are still locked out, or suspect your account is inactive, reach out to the TDSB Dispatch Help Desk for assistance.
⚠️ Browser Compatibility Issues
Cause: Using an outdated web browser.
Solution: SmartFind Express requires modern browsers. Upgrade your browser to the latest version of Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, or Microsoft Edge to ensure proper functionality and security.
⚠️ No Jobs Visible Online
Cause: Job postings might be limited, or the system experiences high demand.
Solution: The best times to search for available jobs are typically after 10:00 p.m. and before 6:00 a.m., or between 12:00 noon and 6:00 p.m. If jobs are specifically requested for you, they may appear after 12:00 noon. Some jobs are primarily dispatched via automated calls.
Maintaining Account Safety within SmartFind Express
- 🔒 Always use a strong, unique password for your SmartFind Express account, adhering to the system's length and character requirements.
- 🔒 Never share your login credentials with anyone. Your User ID and password are for your personal access only.
- 🔒 Log out of your account after each session, especially when using a shared or public computer, to prevent unauthorized access to your information.
- 🔒 Be mindful of the TDSB's policies on acceptable use of IT resources, including the Acceptable Use of Information Technology Resources (P088), Board Code of Conduct (PR585), and Code of On-Line Conduct (PR571). Your usage must comply with these guidelines.
🎧 Official Support & Help Center
For assistance with SmartFind Express, contact the TDSB Dispatch Help Desk. Teaching Staff: 416-338-4747, option 2 Support Staff: 416-338-4747, option 3 The SFE System Phone Number is 416-338-4500 or toll-free at 1-844-294-7614. Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday, 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
Common Queries on SmartFind Express Usage
Q: Is there a mobile application for SmartFind Express?
Yes, SmartFind Express offers a mobile app to connect substitutes with available jobs. However, some users have reported issues with job notifications, so it's advisable to also check the web portal regularly.
Q: How do I change the areas or schools I prefer to work in (my preferred quadrants)?
To change your preferred quadrants or classifications, you need to email [email protected] or fax revisions to (416) 393-8003. Your information will be verified by Employee Services before changes are applied.
Q: What happens if I accept a job and later another one comes up? Will the system automatically stop calling me?
Once you successfully accept a job through SmartFind Express, the system automatically registers you as unavailable for other positions for that time period. This means you will generally not receive further calls for conflicting assignments.
Q: How are job assignments submitted to payroll after I complete them?
According to user experiences, once you complete a job accepted through SmartFind Express, everything typically gets submitted automatically to payroll. You should still keep a record of your job numbers for your own tracking.
Wrap Up
SmartFind Express serves as a critical digital tool for TDSB staff, facilitating efficient management of work schedules and absence reporting. By understanding its functions and adhering to security best practices, users can optimize their experience with the system. Regular engagement with the portal ensures you stay informed about available assignments and manage your professional commitments effectively within the Toronto District School Board.