We Support Safe Schools and SOGI-Inclusive Education

With the rise of the anti-SOGI (Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity) protests happening around the province today, we want to emphasize that within SD47 we embrace the authenticity of all students and staff, including those who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+, and we maintain a zero-tolerance policy for any actions that promote hatred towards them. We wish to reiterate our unwavering commitment to upholding human rights, addressing any anti-SOGI activities, and fostering safe and inclusive learning environments within our schools.

Here are some ways we are combatting discrimination and supporting safe schools where all students can thrive, be represented, and succeed:

• All schools are required to have codes of conduct/anti-bullying policies that address the protected grounds of discrimination under the BC Human Rights Code. This includes sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. Communication of these codes to all students, staff, and families is required each year. Codes of conduct are displayed in prominent locations. 
• All districts use Safe, Caring, and Orderly Schools strategy and processes to support safe schools. 
• School District 47 uses Administrative Procedure 176 (Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity) to help guide the work of SOGI-inclusive education and to define appropriate actions to prevent discrimination and harassment. 
• Alongside all 60 school districts in BC, we participate in the BC SOGI Educator Network and use SOGI 123 resources to promote a more inclusive and equitable learning environment. 
• Classroom and school activities are designed to provide age-appropriate learning opportunities to help students understand the impacts of discrimination and improve awareness and understanding of the diverse people around them. 
• SOGI School Leads and District SOGI Leads are available to help with questions, support, resources, and professional learning.