OAPCE | Ontario Association of Parents in Catholic Education

We have received numerous requests to make an “official position” statement on the equity and inclusivity policy by media and others.  As an organization recognized as the voice of parents and guardians of students in publicly funded English Catholic schools in Ontario, we know that there is a huge scale of opinion on this policy by parents across the province.  There is also a large scale of understanding and knowledge about the complete policy as well.  Let us simply say this:

We support the statements made by the Assembly of Catholic Bishops of Ontario on this topic and respect them as the official voice of our Catholic Faith and Church here in Ontario.

We support our partners in Catholic Education, as we work together to ensure our schools are environments of safety, respect and love for not just our students, but all the staff and visitors we welcome into our schools.

We strongly encourage parents to become familiar and knowledgeable about what the Equity and Inclusivity Policy looks like in their particular school board – ask questions, seek clarification if you are not sure.  Please do not accept the “coffee shop talk” as gospel on this topic, get the facts from credible sources actively involved in your school board.

We strongly encourage school board administrations and staff to continue inviting, involving and informing parents of details surrounding initiatives that support this policy in your schools and communities.  Parents are the first teachers of their children and look to the schools for support when a student experiences difficulties – whether with understanding curriculum being taught, homework completion, social situations and interactions, mental or physical health concerns or any number of issues. There cannot be just a sexual orientation centred focus – let us not be side tracked from the most important issue, the wellbeing of the student, period.

We at OAPCE intend to continue the positive collaborative work we do within our catholic education community and outwardly with the Ministry of Education and our community partners as we move ever forward creating the supports needed for our students and sharing this information with parents in an accurate and timely manner.