Equity and Inclusive Education
Supporting equity and inclusive education helps the education community identify and remove discriminatory biases and systemic barriers in order to support student achievement and well-being. Research confirms that students who feel welcome and accepted in their schools are more likely to succeed academically. In fact, everyone in our publicly funded education system – regardless of background or personal circumstances – should feel engaged and included.
Diversity: Diversity is the presence of a wide range of human qualities and attributes within a group, organization, or society. The dimensions of diversity include, but are not limited to, ancestry, culture, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, language, physical and intellectual ability, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, and socio-economic status.
Equity: Equity is a condition or state of fair, exclusive, and respectful treatment of all people. Equity does not mean treating people the same without regard for individual differences.
Inclusive Education: Inclusive Education is based on the principles of acceptance and inclusion of all students. Students see themselves reflected in their curriculum, their physical surroundings, and the broader environment, in which diversity is honoured and all individuals are respected.
Equity Framework: Promoting and Supporting Student Well-Being (PDF)
This plan sets out goals and action items for creating safe and inclusive spaces for everyone.
Equity Calendar (PDF)
The calendar serves as a resource for students, staff and school communities.
This guideline outlines best practices related to supporting inclusive, safe and caring spaces for diverse gender identities.
Policies and Guidelines
- Ontario’s Education Equity Action Plan 2017 (PDF)
- PPM 119 Developing and Implementing Equity and Inclusive Education Policies in Ontario Schools April 2013 (PDF)
- Administration Guideline: Equity and Inclusive Education (November 2019) (PDF)
- Administrative Guideline: Religious Accommodation (September 2010) (PDF)
- Achieving Excellence: A Renewed Vision to Education in Ontario (PDF)
