Listen Live
HomeNews“Much remains to be done”: UCDSB on Pride Month

“Much remains to be done”: UCDSB on Pride Month

This Pride Month, Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) Chair John McAllister says he wants LGBTQ+ students and staff to feel safe, welcome and respected at school.

“We know that students only succeed when they feel safe and respected,” McAllister says. 

“This school board takes a strong stance on equity and inclusivity, and works diligently to ensure that the physical and emotional well-being of all students and staff are protected and respected. We prepare all students for a successful life and by all, we truly mean all.”

McAllister says he’s encouraging educators at schools throughout the board to teach students to respect and celebrate the queer community and learn about its history.

- Advertisement -

Dan McRae, the board’s Principal of Equity and Inclusion, says he’s noticed “monumental growth” in the way LGBTQ+ kids and staff are treated by their peers over the past few years.

“Part of my job is to go to schools across our district and speak with classes about equity and inclusivity, but to also listen to their concerns and ideas,” McRae says. 

“The dignity and respect of all people are at the heart of this work. In speaking with thousands of students this school year, we have certainly come a long way as a system, but much remains to be done.”

April Scott-Clarke, the board’s Manager of Communications, says some of the initiatives being worked on to help improve its inclusivity include a survey of the student body, adding an “equity and inclusion sub-committee” to the board’s student senate, and inviting more diverse guest speakers to present at UCDSB schools.

“If a student or family has ideas or concerns,” she says, “they are encouraged to reach out to their school principal, trustee, or student senate.”

- Advertisment -
- Advertisment -
- Advertisement -

Continue Reading