Public Opinion Encouraged on Proposed Conduct Guidelines

By Pam Jones, Editor.

We all have an opinion on the conduct of the youth in our area, now we have an opportunity to express those opinions.

The Foothills School Division have released draft copies of Policy 18 – Welcoming, Safe, Caring, Inclusive and Respectful Learning Environments and Administrative Procedure 350 – Student Code of Conduct.

First reading was given to Policy 18 and AP 350 at the February 10, 2016 Board Meeting and now in accordance with the Division’s normal practice, the public are invited to give their input using an online questionnaire.

There are four questions involved:

Policy 18 – Welcoming, Safe, Caring, Inclusive and Respectful Learning Environments

Thinking about Policy 18 and its goal of supporting the safety and wellbeing of all students, do you have any questions?

Thinking about Policy 18 and its goal of supporting the safety and wellbeing of all students, what suggestions do you have?

Administrative Procedure 350 – Student Code of Conduct

Thinking about AP 350 and its goal of ensuring a safe and caring learning environment for all by addressing issues such as bullying, harassment and discrimination, what questions do you have?

Thinking about AP 350 and its goal of ensuring a safe and caring learning environment for all by addressing issues such as bullying, harassment and discrimination, what suggestions do you have?

Whilst this is very definitely a school issue and all parents/guardians with school-aged children should be responding it is also incumbent upon all taxpayers to have a say in the future of Education in general.

Even a response of “none” to all of the questions will give our School Division a clear indication of the public’s views on these issues. Therefore everyone is encouraged to complete the form and submit it.

The questionnaire and background information can be accessed by clicking this link: http://www.fsd38.ab.ca/draft-policyadministrative-procedure-safe-inclusive-respectful-learning-environments-in-fsd/

The future of education in Alberta and the conduct of children who will eventually be the leaders in this Province has to be based on sound school policies.

I have noticed recently that a lot of people have voiced their opinions on various Facebook pages – I implore all of you to reflect on these concerns and if you feel they are not covered in these two directives then let your School Division know.

Change will not happen simply by berating our children on Facebook.

We’ve been given an opportunity to take a proactive approach to making a real difference for our children and community, let’s work together to make it happen.