i-3 Policy Generating Process

The District School Board of Niagara (DSBN) Board of Trustees are required under the Education Act to develop and maintain policies to:

• Promote student achievement and well-being
• Promote positive school climate that is inclusive and accepting of all pupils, including pupils of any race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital status, family status or disability
• Promote the prevention of bullying
• Deliver effective and appropriate education programs to its pupils.

Recommendations for development of Policy may be initiated by a variety of sources: Trustees, students, staff, members of System Leadership, Ministry of Education or parents/guardians and community.

Recommendations for Policy development will normally be channeled through the Policy Committee for consideration by the Board of Trustees. Where this is not possible or practical, due to short timelines or other constraints, the recommendation may be routed directly to the Board of Trustees.

The development or approval of some specific Policy matters (e.g., Finance, Board Governance) may be directed to other DSBN Committees.

The Policy Committee may also review any existing Policy and recommend to the Board of Trustees reconsideration, revision, modification, revocation or any other course of action.

When creating or reviewing Policy, the DSBN is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful learning and working environment, in alignment with the principles of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, the Ontario Human Rights Code, and the Education Act.