William Mack, principal of North Toronto Collegiate Institute, sent home the following letter to parents. It is intact except for links and unrelated forthcoming events.
Student Demonstration
Today, many North Toronto students, as well as students across the province, participated in a demonstration to express their views about recent provincial changes to the Physical and Health Education Curriculum (HPEC). They also highlighted concerns regarding Indigenous Education, following the cancellation of provincial summer writing projects as well as issues concerning LGBTQ+ youth. While there are no changes to the Physical and Health Education Curriculum used in secondary schools, the Ministry of Education requires all school boards, including the TDSB, to use the re-issued 2010 HPEC for grades 1 through 8It is important to note that the Ontario government’s upcoming review of the HPEC will include consultations. Details are not yet available, but once finalized, these will be widely shared. At TDSB, Aboriginal perspectives are infused in the curriculum for all students. Direct wrap-around supports are provided to enhance the overall achievement of First Nation, Métis and Inuit students throughout the TDSB.
The demonstration began at 1:00 pm and continued until 3:00 pm. To be clear, this was not a school or TDSB event. Staff did not actively participate in the students’ demonstration. The majority of students were in the building and in classrooms throughout the afternoon, and learning did continue for those students. One of the very top priorities at our school is safety. To that end, organizing students co-operated with staff to ensure the well-being of all those participating. School administration and other staff were present to ensure that students were safe throughout the demonstration.
This was a peaceful event. As a school, we encourage students to be well-informed about issues in our society, to think critically, and to express themselves respectfully and responsibly in articulating views they may have. Our students did just that and we are confident that in the days and weeks ahead they will continue to conduct themselves in this way. I would like to thank our vice-principals who supervised this afternoon’s gathering as well as the many staff who supported us in supervising the school throughout the afternoon.
At its core, today’s demonstration proved to be an excellent way for students to get involved with civic engagement at a young age, exercise their autonomy and learn about the power of a young voice. As always, we remain proud of our students for their spirit and passion.
Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact me at the school.
William Mack
Principal
North Toronto Collegiate Institute
