School District 57 Board Chair Tim Bennett told MyPGNow.com the province’s new anti-racism action plan is a step in the right direction.
It was put in action to strengthen the K-12 curriculum, ensuring the culture, beliefs, and ancestry of all students and staff are accepted, celebrated, and understood.
“Our districts and districts across the province have anti-racism and anti-bullying policies in places but there is still work that needs to be done with the system and we’re excited that the minister is bringing together everyone to have these conversations and to bring more change.”
Bennett added an action plan is key since the district has a high rate of Indigenous students
“As a district, we have over 33% Indigenous students and we’re welcoming new families to Canada and our district on a regular basis and we need to make sure that we are constantly reviewing what our racism policies are.”
A community roundtable held its first meeting on Friday.
A new student advisory group will also be formed in the fall to hear directly from students on their experiences something Bennett believes could be beneficial.
“I think it’s important that we have students around the table. We are also so proud to hear when our District Student Advisory Council is able to participate in conversations and then we have to ensure that it’s not just consultation but authentic consultation.”