Supporting our students

Supporting diversity, equity and inclusion


The SCDSB is committed to an equitable education system that upholds and reflects the principles of fair and inclusive education which permeates policies, programs, practices and operations. The board recognizes that equity of opportunity and equity of access to the full range of programs, the delivery of services and resources are critical to the achievement of successful educational and social outcomes for those served by our school system as well as for those who serve our system. 

Learn more about diversity, equity and inclusion in the SCDSB.
Indigenous education
The SCDSB’s Indigenous Education department supports the achievement and well-being of self-identified First Nation, Métis and Inuit students. The department provides direct support to students while also providing opportunities for all SCDSB students and staff to develop a greater understanding of the history, culture and contributions of Indigenous peoples in our communities and across Canada.
Self-identification of First Nation, Métis and Inuit students
First Nation, Métis and Inuit students are invited to participate in the SCDSB’s voluntary, confidential self-identification process. The SCDSB collects First Nation, Métis and Inuit self-identification data to support student success, reduce gaps in student achievement and support a sense of belonging. Information that is collected is used to inform program planning and services that are relevant for First Nation, Métis and Inuit learners. Disclosing First Nation, Métis and Inuit ancestry is completely voluntary and confidential. No proof of ancestry is required. Students and families are asked to contact their school office if they wish their child to self-identify.

Learn more about Indigenous education in the SCDSB.
Special education

Students learn in many different ways. Students may need different supports and programs beyond the accommodations regularly provided in the classroom to reach their full potential.

These may include any or all of the following:

  • additional support provided by specialized and qualified staff and may include a special education resource teacher (SERT) and/or an educational assistant, as required 
  • an Individual Education Plan (IEP)
  • assistive technology 
  • a special education class placement

Learn more about special education in the SCDSB.

Graduation coaches

The SCDSB has graduation coaches for Black, Indigenous, and LGBTQ students. Graduation coaches engage in high school graduation assistance activities and work with students, school faculty and staff and parents/guardians. Graduation coaches provide assistance to secondary school students, individually and in groups, regarding high school graduation and completion. They support students in a variety of areas, including:

  • analyzing data to identify students or subgroups with potential high school graduation issues
  • planning, implementing, and tracking individual high school graduation plans
  • identifying and resolving barriers to graduation
  • facilitating career choices and planning.

Supporting mental health and well-being


The SCDSB recognizes the importance of positive mental health as it is linked to overall well-being, achievement and positive outcomes for youth. We are committed to improving the quality of mental health supports available to our students. We provide training for school staff to help them recognize signs that a student may need additional support. We also rely on the help of community agencies.  

The SCDSB focuses on mental health and well-being promotion, prevention and early intervention for all students, prioritizing it as a key condition for learning and flourishing. This is incorporated through curriculum and teaching practices that focus on social-emotional skill building and resilience, and school and classroom environments that are welcoming, inclusive and understanding.  

Students requiring additional support due to emerging mental health concerns are able to access group and individual interventions provided by child and youth workers in some elementary schools and by social workers in elementary and secondary schools.  

 

Community supports
  • 24 hour mental health crisis line 1-888-893-8333 or 705-728-5044
  • Canadian Mental Health Association 1-800-461-4319
  • Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868
  • Kinark Child and Family Services 1-888-454-6275
  • Mobile Crisis Line  1-888-893-8333 or 1-855-310-COPE (2673)
  • New Path Youth and Family Services 705-725-7656
  • Access the 211 directory by phone (dial 2-1-1) or at www.211ontario.ca for information on community resources related to a specific concern.

Learn more about mental health and well-being in the SCDSB.