Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion 

(Pages 47 and 48 in the Ontario Social Studies and History and Geography Curriculum – 2018) 

The Ontario Equity and Inclusive Education Strategy focuses on respecting diversity, promoting inclusive education, and identifying and eliminating discriminatory biases, systemic barriers, and power dynamics that limit the ability of all students to learn, grow, and contribute to society.

In an environment based on the principles of inclusive education, all students, parents, caregivers, and other members of the school community – regardless of ancestry, culture, ethnicity, sex, physical or intellectual ability, race, religion, creed, gender identity/expression, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, or other factors – are welcomed, included, treated fairly, and respected.

  • In an inclusive education system, all students see themselves reflected in the curriculum, their physical surroundings, and the broader environment, so that they can feel engaged in and empowered by their learning experiences.
  • It encourages staff and students alike to value and show respect for diversity in the school and the broader society.
  • Teachers can give students a variety of opportunities to learn about diversity and diverse perspectives, for example:
    • the contributions of women,
    • the perspectives of various ethnocultural, religious, and racial communities, and
    • the beliefs and practices of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities

There are numerous opportunities to break through stereotypes and to learn about various religious, social, and ethnocultural groups, including First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people, and their distinct traditions. By teachers carefully choosing support materials that reflect the makeup of a class, students will see that they are respected and will, in turn, come to respect the differences that exist in their classroom and in the larger community.

Days of Significance

As they occur, we highlight the various Days of Significance celebrated in Canada and around the world. Our students enjoy learning about the multitude of traditions, customs, and days of significance that are observed in our global village.

 

 

Holiday Fun Day

In December, our Grade 1 to 6 students participated in a Holiday Fun Day that was organized by staff and hosted by Mrs. Hanley’s Grade 2 class. During the event, the Grade 2 students taught their peers about Chinese New Year, Diwali, Christmas, Kwanzaa, and Hannukah. Students were then guided through games and activities related to each celebration.

 

 

 

 

For more information on Ontario’s Education Equity Action Plan (2017):

http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/about/education_equity_plan_en.pdf

 

Eddie is an Eagle from Wellesley and Freddie is a Falcon from Floradale.

Although these two individuals may look different, may be from different rural towns, and may eat different foods … they both come from the same family – the bird family.