An update on Bill 13
TDSB Message Regarding Bill 13
Bill 13 – Accepting Schools Act
On June 5, 2012, the
Accepting Schools Act passed third and final reading in the Ontario Legislature. The Act requires all school boards to take preventative measures against bullying, issue tougher consequences for bullying, and support students who want to promote understanding and respect for all.
The recent passing of this legislation will strengthen the policies and procedures that are in place in our Board to support schools and classrooms across the system. Boards are expected to make changes to some of their policies and procedures for September 1, 2012 working toward full implementation by February 1, 2013.
As of
September 1, 2013 the duties that our Principals have are as follows:
To investigate any incident reported under section s. 300.2.
To notify parents/guardians of students who engaged in behavior for which the student could be suspended or expelled and which resulted in harm to another student.
To invite all parents of students involved in an incident that resulted in harm to discuss the supports that will be provided to their children.
To provide supports for students who want to establish and lead activities or organizations that promote a safe and inclusive learning environment.
Require all organizations that use school property to follow standards consistent with the
Provincial Code of Conduct
As of
February 1, 2013 more significant changes to our policies and procedures will be required.
Over the coming months there will be opportunities for staff training and notification to students and parents.
New definition of bullying
Changes to section 310(1) of the Education Act which now include certain circumstances related to bullying and to activities that are motivated by bias, prejudice or hate.
Amending board multi‐year plans to include goals for positive school climate and bullying prevention
Bill 13 has a number of legislative requirements that cannot be completed until the Ministry of
Education provides policy direction through updating Policy/Program Memoranda 144 and 145.
When this update is received the Board will put the following in place:
Principal's duty to communicate with teachers who reported an incident for which suspension and expulsion must be considered.
Reporting by professionals such as psychologists and social workers.
Conducting school climate surveys of students, staff and parents every 2 years.
Support for students, awareness raising for parents.
Professional Learning programs for all staff.
All of us have a part to play in making and keeping schools safe. By working together, we can provide learning environments that are caring, safe, accepting, respectful and inclusive, where students can acquire the knowledge, skills and values they need to become responsible members of their communities.
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hope that helps,
hmisabpk
