UGDSB Student Census- UGDSB Counts
Dear Parent/Guardian,
This fall, the Upper Grand District School Board is launching the “UGDSB Counts Student Census.” The census is a confidential, voluntary survey for all students in the UGDSB.
The goal of the census is to better understand the cultural, social and demographic diversity of our students.
The UGDSB recognizes the disproportionate impact on students who are racialized and have identities connected to the margins. We will use the results of the survey to better understand these impacts, so we can make positive change.
What is UGDSB Counts?
It is a confidential and voluntary online survey. We will ask questions about:
- first languages
- Indigenous status
- ethnicity/cultural origins
- racial background
- religious/spiritual affiliation
- gender
- sexual orientation
- disabilities
- citizenship
- socio-economic status
Paper copies of the survey will be available upon request.
How is UGDSB Collecting this Data?
In Kindergarten to grade 8, parents/caregivers will complete the survey on behalf of, or with, their child. A survey link will be sent to parents’/legal guardians’ email addresses.
In grades 9-12, students will complete the survey. A survey link will be sent to each student’s UGDSB email address. Time will be provided in class for completion.
Why is UGDSB Collecting this Data?
The Ministry of Education requires school boards to collect identity-based student data. This is in order to “identify and monitor racial disparities in order to eliminate systemic racism and advance racial equity.”
The census data will be joined with information we already collect for research purposes (e.g., attendance, student achievement, credit accumulation, graduation rate, suspensions/expulsions/exclusions, special education services, and academic/extracurricular program participation).
Please Note:
- This data collection is authorised by section 7(2) of the Anti-Racism Act and sections 169.1(1), 265(1)(d) of the Education Act.
- The data collection is voluntary.
- No program, service or benefit may be withheld because a student does not participate, or refuses to participate.
If you have any questions or concerns please call Blayne Primeau (UGDSB Academic Achievement Data Analyst) at 519-822-4420 ext. 871 or email [email protected].
For more detailed information please visit www.ugdsb.ca/census.
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