AMDSB Releases Results from Parent/Caregiver Climate Survey
Between November and December 2023, the AMDSB conducted a climate survey for all Avon Maitland District School Board (AMDSB) parents/caregivers of AMDSB students. The purpose was to better understand their experiences and their perceptions of the experiences of students.
Climate surveys are a requirement of the Ministry of Education (PPM 144, section 11) and must be administered to students, staff, and parents/caregivers once every 2 years. These surveys provide data to help guide evidence- informed decision-making in important areas such as: bullying prevention, intervention strategies and school improvement planning for student achievement and well-being.
As Dr. Lisa Walsh explains: “We know that when students feel safe and welcomed at school that they are more likely to achieve at higher levels and have a stronger sense of well-being. We also know that when principles of equity and inclusive education are embedded in the learning environment, it helps to support a positive school climate and a culture of mutual respect.”
Survey participants were also asked demographic questions about themselves and their child/children (Indigenous identity, race, religion, and sexual orientation). Collecting this information aligns with the Ontario Anti-Racism Act, 2017 which includes regulations mandating “data collection for the purpose of identifying, monitoring, and addressing systemic racism and advancing racial equity in public policies, services and functions.” School districts follow the Data Standards for the Identification and Monitoring of System Racism which provide a framework to collect identity-based data for the purpose of identifying and eliminating system barriers and bias through changes to policy, procedure, programs, and practices that affect students, staff and the communities we serve. This work is also governed by the Education Act and the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.
An Executive Summary has been developed (see attached) and the full report can be found on the AMDSB website.
For more information, please contact:
Chera Longston, Communications Manager
519-527-0111 ext. 132 (office) or 519-301-6363 (cell)
[email protected]