Purpose
The Board of Education (the “Board”) of the Chilliwack School District (the “District”) wants all schools to be safe, caring, and inclusive. Everyone deserves respect and the chance to learn, grow, and take part in school life.
Under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedom, the B.C. Human Rights Code and the District’s collective agreements, the Board expects all members of the school community to act respectfully. Together, we work to keep schools welcoming and safe for everyone.
The Board promotes clear expectations that reflect the highest standards of respectful and responsible citizenship. These expectations help build a culture of safety for everyone in all schools and at all school-authorized events and activities.
Safety and inclusion are shared responsibilities. The Board encourages the District, schools, students, families, community groups, social agencies, and the RCMP to work together to support safe, caring, and inclusive schools.
Guidelines
The Board expects all members of the school community to:
• Follow all applicable federal and provincial laws.
• Follow all District Policies and Administrative Procedures.
• Proactively support inclusive, respectful learning and work spaces.
• Treat everyone with dignity and respect.
• Avoid all forms of violence.
• Take care of school and District property.
• Help those in need.
• Follow reasonable directions from people in authority.
The Board expects everyone to avoid any behavior that discriminates against others, as described in the B.C. Human Rights Code. Discrimination includes unfair actions or treatment based on the following grounds:
• Age
• Family Status
• Marital Status
• Mental and/or Physical Disability
• Race, colour, place of origin, or ancestry
• Indigenous identity
• Sex
• Gender Identity or expression
• Sexual Orientation
• Religion
• Criminal Conviction
• Political Belief
• Source of Income
The Board is committed to human rights and to stopping discrimination. The District must make sure that all students and staff members are treated with dignity and respect.
The District also recognizes that some people face extra barriers. Homophobic and/or transphobic behaviour – including harassment, intimidation, or bullying – is not allowed. This includes harmful actions or a failure to act.
Staff must respond to all incidents and support anyone who is targeted or affected.
Creating safe, caring, and inclusive schools for everyone – regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression – is addressed in Administrative Procedure 356: Safe and Caring Schools: Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity or Expression.