Halton District School Board reacts to MPPs' accusations regarding Oakville teacher controversy
The Halton District School Board has issued a response to a joint statement by three Halton MPPs, which accused the board of abdicating its responsibilities in dealing with an Oakville teacher controversy.
Oakville MPP Stephen Crawford, Oakville North-Burlington MPP Effie Triantafilopoulos and Burlington MPP Natalie Pierre said the board had a responsibility to provide a safe place to learn and had failed to put the interests and safety of students first.
Their Feb. 28 statement came in the wake of escalating threats of violence against an Oakville high school for the overtly sexual attire worn by a teacher and the HDSB's stance that the teacher is protected by human rights legislation.
Our highest priority is the safety of our students. If we felt students were in harm's way - we would not allow our schools to open. But classes are being attended, students are working respectfully with their teachers, and we have not seen any changes in attendance - all classes are well-attended. Despite reports online, they continue to attend class, learn and work together toward their goals for the semester," reads the HDSB statement.
The HDSB has high standards and high expectations of the educators who work in all our schools," the statement continued.
The statement also addressed the recent introduction by the board of a draft professionalism policy requested in January by trustees and presented at the March 1 board meeting. The board is currently consulting with parents, students and employees on the draft policy through a survey. Trustees will review feedback and vote on the policy at the March 22 board meeting.
The professionalism policy, of which a draft has been prepared, will consolidate and affirm existing expectations regarding staff professionalism in school settings - and at school-based activities."
We take immense pride in the inclusiveness, compassion and respect for equity and inclusion that our students and their families have demonstrated during this time. We will continue to prioritize students by setting an example of a board that is inclusive, accepting, and rooted in the belief of upholding human rights for everyone that is a part of this community," said the statement.