See email sent to families for the attached .pdf that shows the formatted letter on UGDSB letterhead. Content follows below.
October 29, 2024
UGDSB Parents and Families on Behaviour Expectations
Dear Parents and Families,
Re: Racism, Discrimination, and Inclusivity
At the Upper Grand District School Board (UGDSB), we are dedicated to creating a learning environment where every student is treated with dignity and respect, free from racism, discrimination, and any form of harmful behaviour. Our commitment to equity and inclusion is rooted in the principles of the Ontario Human Rights Code, which safeguards individuals from discrimination based on race, disability, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, and other protected grounds.
We are all responsible for ensuring that our schools remain spaces where all students can thrive. This message outlines our expectations regarding student behaviour and the consequences for engaging in discriminatory actions, particularly those related to race, disability, gender identity, and sexual orientation.
Expectations for Addressing Racism, Discrimination, and Harassment
1. Anti-Black Racism: Black students are often disproportionately impacted by racism in educational settings. Any language or behaviour that targets Black students, perpetuates harmful stereotypes, or seeks to demean or marginalize Black students will not be tolerated. Students engaging in Anti-Black racist behaviour will face serious repercussions, including restorative practices and disciplinary actions.
2. Anti-Semitism: UGDSB will not tolerate any form of Anti-Semitism. This includes hateful remarks, jokes, or stereotypes that target Jewish students based on their religion or culture. Incidents of Anti-Semitic behaviour will be addressed immediately, and students involved will be subject to appropriate consequences.
3. Islamophobia: Discriminatory comments or actions targeting Muslim students, including mocking religious practices or spreading hostility based on religion, will not be tolerated. Islamophobic behaviour will be dealt with seriously, ensuring the safety and well-being of our Muslim students.
4. Other Forms of Racism: Racism in any form—whether it targets Indigenous students, Asian students, or any other racial or ethnic group—will not be tolerated. All students deserve to feel safe and included, and those who engage in racist behaviour will face disciplinary actions, including possible suspension or expulsion.
Expectations for Supporting Students with Disabilities
We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for students with disabilities, ensuring that their dignity and rights are upheld. Discrimination, bullying, or harmful remarks targeting students with disabilities—whether physical, intellectual, or developmental—are unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
Students are expected to show respect and empathy towards their peers with disabilities. Any form of bullying, mocking, or exclusion based on disability will result in swift action. Consequences may include restorative interventions, educational programs, and, where necessary, disciplinary measures.
Expectations for Supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ Students
The UGDSB is committed to supporting students of all sexual orientations and gender identities, particularly those who identify as part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. We will not tolerate any form of Transphobia or Homophobia in our schools. Every student, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, deserves to feel safe, respected, and supported.
1.Transphobia: Discriminatory behaviour or comments directed at transgender or gender non-conforming students are strictly prohibited. This includes misgendering, making derogatory comments about a student's gender identity or expression, or engaging in harmful behaviour that undermines their dignity. Transphobic actions will result in immediate consequences, including educational interventions and disciplinary actions as necessary.
2. Homophobia: Any behaviour or language that targets students based on their sexual orientation, such as slurs, exclusion, or intimidation, is prohibited. Homophobic behaviour is harmful and unacceptable, and those who engage in it will face consequences ranging from restorative conversations to suspension or expulsion, depending on the severity.
Consequences for Engaging in Discriminatory Behaviour
UGDSB will not tolerate any form of racism, discrimination, or harassment, including AntiBlack racism, Anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, ableism, Transphobia, and Homophobia. Consequences for students who engage in these behaviours include:
- Restorative Justice: Students may be required to participate in restorative practices to understand the harm they have caused and to take steps to repair that harm.
- Disciplinary Actions: Depending on the severity of the incident, consequences may range from detention to suspension or expulsion. Severe or repeated offences will lead to more serious consequences.
- Educational Interventions: Students involved in discriminatory behaviour may be required to take part in educational programs that address issues of racism, discrimination, and inclusion, helping them understand the impact of their actions and fostering greater empathy.
A Collective Responsibility for a Safe and Inclusive Environment
We all have a role to play in maintaining a safe, welcoming, and inclusive school environment. Parents and caregivers, we ask for your partnership in reinforcing these expectations at home and having ongoing conversations with your children about respect, inclusion, and the importance of standing against all forms of hate and discrimination.
If your child experiences or witnesses any form of racism, discrimination, or harassment, please report the incident immediately so that we can take the necessary steps to ensure that our schools remain safe for everyone.
Thank you for your commitment to making our schools safe and supportive spaces for all students.
Sincerely,
Alicia Ralph