Grand Erie is inviting applications from the community for a new Equity Advisory Group to help the board reduce barriers and support inclusivity.
Equity Advisory Group (EAG) will advise the board on matters of equity, diversity and inclusivity, and will have a lasting impact on schools, students and communities by supporting the development of an Equity Action Plan to serve as the foundation for building a culture of belonging.
“We have a mission to partner across our district with all stakeholders to build a culture of learning, well-being and belonging to inspire every learner,” said Susan Gibson, Chair of the Grand Erie District School Board. “We are committed to identifying and addressing systemic racism and oppression in schools and classrooms to support the well-being of students and staff.”
The EAG will meet on a schedule determined by the group and will be responsible for providing feedback on specific areas of Board policies and practices consistent with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Education Act, to the Safe and Inclusive Schools Committee of Grand Erie.
“Our Safe and Inclusive Schools team is reaching out to specific communities, people with lived experience and knowledge of issues of equity, racism, systemic oppression. This is an opportunity to have a meaningful impact on reducing barriers in Grand Erie,” said JoAnna Roberto, Director of Education at Grand Erie.
The group will provide advice and recommendations using anti-oppressive, anti-colonial and anti-racist lenses to ensure that decisions, policies and practices do not create barriers to Indigenous, Black, South Asian, racialized, Two Spirit, LGBTQ+ and other historically marginalized students and families.
Grand Erie is seeking applications from community members in human rights and equity deserving organizations, alliances and networks, parents or community leaders that serve or represent Indigenous, Black, South Asian, racialized, Two Spirit, LGBTQ+ communities, ethno-cultural communities, and people with disabilities. Organizations can appoint a representative to join the committee.
