Equity, Diversity and Inclusivity

The LDCSB is committed to improving the experiences and outcomes of all students, including Indigenous students, Black and other racialized groups of students, students with disabilities and/or special education needs, 2SLGBTQ+ students, students from low-income households, and students new to Canada. As a Catholic community, equity, diversity, justice and inclusion are values rooted in our faith.

In addition, the LDCSB believes that a culture of collaboration, trust and respect can strengthen our partnerships with students, staff, family, and community. We are committed to celebrating the diversity, dignity, success, and worth of all individuals, and seek to strengthen our recognition of all voices in our community.

As stewards of Catholic education, we believe in the sacredness of human life. We recognize that systemic racism impacts the daily lives of our students, staff and families in ways that are unjust and prevalent. While we have done some important equity work in the LDCSB, we recognize that we have a lot more work to do to eradicate racism and all forms of oppression.

Equity Action Plan

The Equity Action Plan provides a road map to identify and dismantle discriminatory practices, systemic barriers and biases faced by diverse groups in our schools, and to support the potential for every student and staff to succeed. We recognize the value of diversity as a strength and a key to the success of all collaborators. This framework aims to ensure equity as a necessary foundation for improving student achievement and promoting student and staff well-being. It is important to acknowledge that equity is always evolving and that language changes with it. Therefore, this is a living document that will be regularly reviewed and amended as needed within the three-year time frame (2024-27).

LDCSB 2024-27 Equity Action Plan

Ontario's Education Equity Action Plan

Resources

Ontario’s Education Equity Action Plan (2017)

Ontario Curriculum- Human Rights, Equity, and Inclusive Education

Ontario’s Equity and Inclusive Education Strategy (2009)

Student Voice Summary Report (2023)

Grand Erie District School Board Equity Action Plan

Windsor Essex-Catholic District School Board Equity Action Plan

Hamilton Wentworth District School Board Equity Action Plan

Keewatin-Patricia District School Board Equity Action Plan

Community Acknowledgements

Yvonne Asare-Bediako- Black Community Liaison Advisor at the City of London

Leroy Hibbert- Multicultural Outreach Program Coordinator at LUSO Community Services

Ahmer Khan- Muslim Community Liaison Advisor at the City of London

Lissette Ochoa- Coordinator of International Programs and Global Education at Brescia University College

Eric Robinson- Program Director at Jewish London

Jennifer Slay- Director of the Office of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Decolonization at King’s University College

Pastor Sandie Thomas- CEO and Founder of Where We Are Now Community Center

Terms and Definitions

Graduation Coach Program for Black Students

About the Graduation Coach Program for Black Students

The Graduation Coach Program for Black Students is a Ministry of Education initiative designed to provide intensive, culturally responsive support to Black students with the goal of improving their well-being and achievement. The program is entirely voluntary and open to African, Black and Caribbean students from grades 9 to 12 and families who wish to access these supports. The Graduation Coach Program for Black, African and Caribbean students is a targeted initiative that will aid in the support of self-identified Black students along with their families and community with the overall goal of seeing each self-identifying student achieve credits, graduate and successfully transition into post-secondary and/or the workforce.

Why do we need a Graduation Coach Program for Black Students?

As a school board, LDCSB is committed to supporting all students to achieve their full potential. However, we recognize that systemic racism and discrimination are deeply embedded in social, economic, educational and political structures and organizations. This creates systemic barriers that may lead to inequitable outcomes for equity-deserving groups, including members of the Black community. One of the key objectives of this program is to create identity-affirming spaces for Black students.

What is the Role of the Graduation Coach for Black Students

The Graduation Coach Program for Black students provides individualized supports for Black students and their families with the goal of seeing reach student feel safe, supported, accepted, and affirmed. The Graduation Coach acts as a mentor, advocate and adviser for Black students. Academically, the Graduation Coach will support with preparartion into secondary and post-secondary transitions, with course credits and community accumulation. The Graduation Coach is committed to collaborating with school administrators, educators, staff, families, post-secondary institutions, and community resources to support Black student achievement and well-being.

If interested in participating in the program, please print out and complete the permission form below. You can also complete the online participation form

Graduation Coach Program Permission Form