StrongerTogether Student Census

The purpose of the Student Census is to eliminate systemic racism and advance racial equity in school boards as authorized by the Anti-Racism Act in s.7(2). We are authorized to collect personal information from students by the Anti-Racism Act (ARA s.6(2)), Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA s.28(2)), and the Education Act (265(1)(d), 169.1(1)). Our process has been developed in accordance with the guidance and legislation provided by the Ministry of Education, the Anti-Racism Directorate, the Ontario Human Rights Commission, and the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. The Student Census is a confidential and voluntary survey. The Student Census includes questions about languages, Indigenous identity, ethnic/cultural background, racial identity, citizenship status, religious/spiritual affiliation, gender identity, and (dis)abilities. The results and analysis of the census will allow us to gain a deeper understanding of the diversity of students within our board and of the cultural, social, and demographic makeup of our students. The role of school boards is to support the census process for students and to make the best use of the information that is gathered. This is an opportunity for us to learn more about the students we support and help us to identify differences and gaps in our students’ experiences and outcomes, based on their diverse needs.