An inclusive education system in Ontario ensures that all students, parents/guardians, and other members of the school community are welcomed and respected. Students should be supported and inspired to succeed in a culture of high expectations for learning. To achieve an equitable and inclusive school climate, our school board continuously strives to ensure that all members of the school community feel safe, comfortable, and accepted. We want all staff and students to value diversity and to demonstrate respect for others and a commitment to establishing a just, caring society. Together, we can create safe, inclusive and caring environments in all of our schools.

Bill 13 - Accepting Schools Act

Bullying can have a big impact on students – when they are young and later in life, as adults. Recognizing this, the government introduced Bill 13, which has been passed into law. The Bill requires that school boards support all students, by helping to prevent and address bullying, discrimination and harassment in our schools.

View the Ontario Ministry of Education's document: Information for Parents about the Accepting Schools Act (Bill 13) to understand more about this important bill >>

View our Accepting Schools Act - Legislative Requirements from Bill 13: Accepting Schools Act & Implementation Timelines Summary – for Parents >>

Equity and Inclusive Education Strategy

Ontario is taking important steps forward to reduce discrimination and embrace diversity in our schools to improve overall student achievement and reduce achievement gaps. The Ministry of Education’s Keeping Our Kids Safe at School Act (Bill 157) came into effect on February 1, 2010. It is the latest step in our strategy to help make Ontario’s schools safer.

The new legislation requires that all school staff report serious incidents (that could lead to suspension or expulsion) to their principal, and that principals notify parents/guardians of victims when a student has been harmed. In addition, all staff who work directly with students, for example teachers or educational assistants, must respond not only to serious incidents but also to inappropriate or disrespectful behaviour among students. This could include racist or sexist comments, graffiti or vandalism, behaviours and activities that are unacceptable in Ontario schools. Students need a safe and positive learning and teaching environment to succeed at school. But it isn’t just the school’s responsibility to make that happen. All of us have a part to play in making and keeping schools safe. 

  View the Ontario Ministry of Education's Equity and Inclusive Education Strategy >>  

Bullying is typically a form of repeated, persistent, and aggressive behaviour directed at an individual or individuals that is intended to cause (or should be known to cause) fear and distress and/or harm to another person’s body, feelings, self-esteem, or reputation. Bullying occurs in a context where there is a real or perceived power imbalance.Whether it happens in person or online, students who engage in bullying, including cyberbullying, can get suspended from school. These rules apply to both elementary and secondary students. Find out what you can do or where you can go for help if you suspect a case of bullying. 

  View our comprehensive list of weblinks for Bullying and Internet Safety >>  

Suspensions and Expulsions

A positive school climate and a safe learning and teaching environment are essential if students are to succeed in school. Progressive discipline promotes positive student behaviour. It also enables the principal to choose the consequences that are appropriate to the student’s needs and behaviour. However, there may be cases in which students are suspended or expelled from school. Students who have been suspended or expelled by the Ottawa Catholic School Board are able to take advantage of specialized programs to assist in re-integrating back into our school systems.

  View comprehensive information regarding Suspensions and Expulsions >>