Policy 504 Equity and Inclusive Education

Policy Statement

The Upper Grand District School Board (UGDSB) is committed to the principles of equity through inclusive and culturally responsive programming, services, and operations in accordance with the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, the Ontario Human Rights Code, and the Education Act.

The UGDSB values all students, employees, and families, regardless of age, ancestry, colour, race, citizenship, ethnic origin, place of origin, creed, ability, family status, marital status, gender identity, gender expression, socio-economic status, employment, housing, sex, and sexual orientation^[1], and is committed to creating and maintaining a learning and working environment where everyone can participate fully, thrive, and reach their full potential, free from trauma, bias, stereotyping, oppression and systemic racism.

The UGDSB recognizes that many identities do not exist in a single form and are often intersecting with multiple identities. Intersectionality can create a compounding impact on oppression, discrimination and racism. The UGDSB is committed to identifying and disrupting systemic racism and oppression in all of its forms.

^[1] Adapted from Ontario Human Rights Code

Documents

• 504 Equity and Inclusive Education Policy Statement
• 504-A Equity and Inclusive Education Procedures Manual
  • 504-A Appendix A – Guidelines for Accommodating Gender Expansive and Transgender Students
  • 504-A Appendix B – Guidelines for Creed Accommodation

First adopted: October 2010
Revision history: February 2011, May 2016, November 2018 (504-B only), February 2022