WELLINGTON COUNTY – The Wellington Catholic District School Board (WCDSB) is launching the first phase of a renewal of its Equity Action Plan.
The renewal, aimed at ensuring the board is “more equitable, diverse and inclusive,” requires input from students, staff and parents, officials stated in an Oct. 23 press release.
“We know that our board and our schools have a very important role to play in leading change,” stated director of education Mike Glazier.
“We have made this a key priority in our school board this year and it will help form our path forward for future years.”
Glazier explained the engagement of students, staff and the community will help “develop and support effective anti-racism, equity, diversity, and inclusion initiatives.”
The board has launched an online Thoughtexchange that will run until Nov. 6. It can be found at www.wellingtoncdsb.ca.
The first phase of the Equity Action Plan includes:
- student, staff and parent consultation through the Thoughtexchange;
- facilitated focus groups;
- staff engagement in a broadened equity committee to develop the three-year Equity Action Plan;
- review of school board workplace data and development of detailed hiring and training plans;
- consulting diverse communities in Guelph-Wellington to better understand their concerns and seek their advice on possible solutions;
- expanded equity, diversity, and inclusion training and learning opportunities for staff, students, trustees, and senior leadership; and
- review of promising practices from other school boards with the support of a third party.
“These are the first steps in a comprehensive, longer-term plan and accompanying actions that respect and affirm the diversity and interdependence of individuals in our schools and community,” states the press release.
“The board is committed to creating and maintaining a safe, inclusive, and equitable learning environment for all students and staff.”
