The Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB) is moving forward with plans to develop an anti-black racism/anti-racism strategy that would remove systemic barriers to improve learning for all.
School board trustees voted unanimously Tuesday night on the motion moved by Trustee Corrine Rahman and seconded by Trustee Jake Skinner. The plan to combat racism within the board was put forward following two Black Lives Matter rallies held in London earlier this month. Rally attendees called for an end to systemic racism and police violence.
"We the Board of Trustees have heard from the community through the June 6, 2020, rally in Victoria Park, demonstrations in other TVDSB communities and protests at the Board office that real action is needed on anti-black racism, racism in schools, equitable hiring practices and reflective curriculum," the board said in its motion.
In order to develop a new anti-black racism/anti-racism strategy, the board will launch extensive consultation. The strategy will include clear objectives, tied to actions and "measurable outcomes and timelines." An equity and inclusivity advisory committee made up of students, community members, trustees, administration and parents/guardians will also be established. This committee will consult on policies, programs and initiatives such as culturally relevant resources, dress codes, disciplinary policies and procedures. The board said it will be a priority to ensure the committees reflect the demographics of the schools’ student body.
The board will also examine the possibility of collecting student data on grade, race, language, disability, sex, gender, and socioeconomic status. This information could put a 'critical lens' on suspension, expulsion and graduation rates, representation in academic, applied and locally developed credit courses, and student absenteeism.
"This data could be used to assess, evaluate and report on progress towards improving outcomes for all students," according to the board.
Under the action plan, equity training including anti-racism and anti-oppression training would be given to trustees, administrators, teachers, staff, and students.
In addressing a demand from the London Black Lives Matter group, the board has agreed to review the role of police officers at its schools and will launch an extensive consultation with students, staff, community members, trustees and parents/guardians. Results of those discussions with recommendations should be completed by December.
Members of Black Lives Matter have said that having police resource officers in a school setting can be a 'trigger' for those in the black community.
The board will also be sending a letter to the Ministry of Education calling for revisions of the curriculum to better incorporate Black history and Indigenous histories.
A second motion from Trustee Carol Antone that calls for more Indigenous representation also got the backing of the board on Tuesday.
Under the motion, the board will establish an Indigenous-led task force during the upcoming school year to work on designating an ombudsman for Indigenous families. This individual would hear complaints and implement and mentor staff on restorative practices. In addition to that, the board agreed to seek Indigenous input surrounding principal placement within schools that have an Indigenous population.
