Policy 503 Safe Schools
Policy Statement
It is the policy of the Upper Grand District School Board (UGDSB) to support and maintain a positive school climate for all students, which is defined as a safe, accepting, and inclusive learning environment that allows every student to reach their full potential.
The UGDSB will work with its community partners in a whole-school approach to promote positive student behaviours, focusing on early and ongoing interventions and supports, and progressive discipline practices, while ensuring each person’s right to equal treatment without discrimination on grounds protected by the Ontario Human Rights Code. Principles of equity, inclusion and mutual respect will be embedded in the learning environment and inform curriculum, school climate, teaching practices, policies and procedures.
All consequences assigned as a result of inappropriate or unacceptable behaviour will include the opportunity for students to continue their education, and access learning opportunities that will reinforce positive behaviours. The goal of any response will be to correct a student’s behaviour through education and restorative practices, rather than punish the student.
The board acknowledges that safe schools practices may disproportionately affect students from equity-deserving groups, including Black, Indigenous, racialized, 2SLGBTQIA+, and students with disabilities. To address this, the board will:
Develop strategies to identify and address disparities; and
Ensure equitable and transparent appeals processes for all students and families.
First adopted: June 2010
Revision history: June 2013, July 2016 (503-A), November 2018 (503-A), November 2020, February 2021, April 2022 (503 and 503-A), April 2025