Education Policies

Provincial legislation requires all schools to observe certain policies and practices to protect children and help them be successful in school.

Equity for all Students

Your school is committed to a school environment where all students are treated with respect, dignity and understanding. Equity policies ensure that there is no discrimination because of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, religion, gender, sexual orientation, handicap and family status. The policies also ensure that the above are not barriers to success in school. If you have a concern, it is very important that you speak to the teacher or the principal.

For more information about the rights of all members of the school community, see the Ontario Human Rights Commission and its publications.
http://www.ohrc.on.ca/english/publications/index.shtml

Grade Placement According to Age

When students register for school, their grade placement is determined by their age, not by the grade they completed in their country of origin. However, when preparing learning activities, the teacher will consider the student’s previous education.

Reporting Possible Harm to Children

When a school staff member observes signs that someone may be abusing, mistreating or neglecting a child or if a student reports that something bad is happening to him or her, the law requires the teacher to inform the organization in your community that is responsible for protecting children (called the Children’s Aid Society or Family and Children’s Services).

For more information see:
http://www.oacas.org/resources/whentoreport.htm

School Attendance is Obligatory

The law requires students who are between six and 18 years of age to attend school. If a student has been away from school for a long period of time, the school board will investigate the reasons for the absence and involve other authorities where necessary.

If your child is going to be out of school for a long time, tell the teacher ahead of time. Sometimes the teacher can suggest learning activities for your child while he or she is away from school.

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