Celebrating Inclusion and Well-Being

Equity, diversity and inclusion were a primary focus throughout the 2020-2021 school year, as work to identify and eliminate systemic barriers for Indigenous, Black, racialized, and vulnerable populations. We engaged in professional learning, active listening, and took deliberate action to make authentic changes that will positively impact our school communities. 

Some highlights include the raising of the Rainbow flag in recognition of Pride month across the Durham Catholic District School Board; and the creation of a Multi-disciplinary Working Group to ensure educators have the necessary faith-based resources and training to provide ongoing support of our 2SLGBTQ+ students.

The board also developed and implemented an Anti-Black Racism Strategy to address anti-Black racism and systemic discrimination and established a Board level Anti-Black Racism and Black Excellence Advisory Committee with representation from parents, guardians, staff, students, and community members.

The mental health of students, staff, and families continues to be a top priority for the board. Several workshops were offered by experts during the school year and over the summer for families. The board implemented the DCDSB Social Work Access Line for Durham Catholic students and families to call if they required non-emergency mental health support. Families can leave a voicemail message with their contact information and one of our mental health professionals will call back and provide support.

Achievements

Superintendent of Education, Mrs. Susie Lee-Fernandes shares highlights and achievements focused on Celebrating Inclusion and Well-Being from the 2020-2021 school year.