The 黑料福利社 District鈥檚听Board of Education is sharing a message of inclusivity to ensure that all students feel welcome and supported听at school, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Trustees recognize that students trying to听express or discover their sexual orientation听and gender identity may face a unique set of challenges that can affect a student鈥檚听well-being. The Board of Education fully supports the new curriculum including Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI) lesson plans and wants to ensure our classrooms are fostering healthy conversations about diversity.
鈥淭here are many students who are still afraid to share their experiences for听fear of harassment, which can negatively impact their overall health and well-being鈥�, noted Board Chair Edith Loring-Kuhanga. 鈥淲e must continue to create a culture where everyone is accepted, where students empower and support one another regardless of their differences or challenges.鈥�
In 2016, The Board of Education approved the District鈥檚 first gender identity and expression policy to create positive learning environments that make all students feel safe, respected and accepted.听 This led to the introduction of gender inclusive washrooms in every school across our District. 听Now, every school has identified a safe contact, also known as SOGI lead, who is a resource for schools to help build inclusive spaces.
The District is holding the first training session for school SOGI leads on December 7, 2017. In the spring, the District will also host an evening to educate parents and community partners on how we can support and build an inclusive learning community where all students have an opportunity to reach their fullest potential.