At the HDSB, we are guided by a number of policies, procedures and legislation, including the Ontario Human Rights Code (OHRC), to ensure that all learning and working environments are free from discrimination and harassment of all kinds.
All of our schools are committed to upholding the OHRC. Students have the right to learn in a safe and caring space that is free of bias and discrimination and students have a right to respectfully express their individuality with respect to
protected grounds as outlined by the Ontario Human Rights Commission.
We know that discriminatory and harmful language and behaviour causes pain and trauma to individuals to whom it is directed and to those who witness and/or share the same identity. In all of our schools across the HDSB, we seek to affirm the identities of all students and build a community free from discrimination in all its forms.
All of our schools follow the HDSB
Student Code of Conduct and the
Discriminatory and Harmful Language Protocol to provide clear expectations for how we respond when harm is caused.
The HDSB is guided by a
Multi-Year Strategic Plan with five areas of focus including ‘Equity & Inclusion’. In it, we state that we will “champion supportive and inclusive practices to ensure equitable access to positive opportunities and outcomes for all.” We stand by that objective and assure our Halton community that we have, and will continue to, identify and eliminate racism and discrimination in our schools.
We want to thank you for your partnership in helping to make HDSB schools a safe and inclusive space for all students. The safety and well-being of our students and staff will continue to be our number one priority as we work to provide welcoming spaces for everyone.
Sincerely,
Amy Collard
Chair
Curtis Ennis
Director of Education
Community Resources and Support
Students who wish to talk about how they are feeling or who are in need of support are encouraged to speak, at any time, with a trusted adult including a Teacher, Educational Assistant, Social Worker or School Administration. Further resources are provided below.
