KAWARTHA LAKES-A school climate survey done by the Trillium Lakelands District School Board in 2017 has found some students don’t feel safe at school and report to have been moderately to severely bullied.
Only 56% of the Elementary students and 60% of the Secondary students reported they felt safe at school. This was determined by asking students a combination of yes/no and
multiple choice questions according to the board. For example, if students feel safe at school, on the way to school, or on the way back from school. They were also
asked if, in the past month, students have been in or seen a fight, stayed
home or gave money to a student, had something stolen or heard a student
making threats. They did not report individual incidents, just if they’ve seen it. Some parents felt that behaviour issues could be dealt with in a more timely manner by the school.
The Ministry of Education requires that a climate survey is conducted in school boards every two years. Targeted stakeholders for this year’s TLDSB survey included students from grades 4 to 8 and community members (parents, guardians, etc.).
Data was collected through an online survey advertised to parents through the board’s social media channels and website, and school-to-home communication including newsletters, calls, and mailing lists as well as at parent nights. The survey ran from November 20th to December 1st, 2017.
The board says 75% of those who were eligible responded to the survey. With 4,241 elementary students (76%), 3,307 secondary students (69%), and 1,315 parents responding(double the number, compared to the survey two years ago).
There is good news though. The school board says a high degree of students feel a sense of belonging, that they have positive relationships, and that there are high academic expectations for students.
One quarter of the students identified as having anxiety (elementary and secondary students) and/or suffering from depression (secondary students).
“We Asked, You Said, Now What?” is being implemented in several schools by administrators as a response to the survey. “Students are being asked to lead the response to the survey results through student forums, discussions, and other ways to gain ideas and suggestions.” said the board. “Other initiatives include the development of a Well-Being Profile, expanding the bullying and reporting tool, encouraging the use of the Mind-Up curriculum, and mental health first aid training for students.”
photo credit: flickingerbrad student_ipad_school – 126 via photopin (license)
