Ambit to lead training for Greater Victoria School District

We’re excited to announce that Ambit will be leading training for all those connected with Greater Victoria School District (SD 61). This will focus on training administrators, teachers, and counsellors, and there will also be learning opportunities for parents and caregivers, SOGI and GSA leads, and any other school-affiliated groups that may benefit.

Here is the media release from their Board of Education:

Tuesday, November 14, 2017

A Message of Inclusivity: All students deserve to reach their full potential in our One Learning Community

VICTORIA, BC –  The Greater Victoria School District’s Board of Education is sharing a message of inclusivity to ensure that all students feel welcome and supported at school, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Trustees recognize that students trying to express or discover their sexual orientation and gender identity may face a unique set of challenges that can affect a student’s well-being. The Board of Education fully supports the new curriculum including Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI) lesson plans and wants to ensure our classrooms are fostering healthy conversations about diversity.

“There are many students who are still afraid to share their experiences for fear of harassment, which can negatively impact their overall health and well-being”, noted Board Chair Edith Loring-Kuhanga. “We must continue to create a culture where everyone is accepted, where students empower and support one another regardless of their differences or challenges.”

In 2016, The Board of Education approved the District’s first gender identity and expression policy to create positive learning environments that make all students feel safe, respected and accepted.  This led to the introduction of gender inclusive washrooms in every school across our District.  Now, every school has identified a safe contact, also known as SOGI lead, who is a resource for schools to help build inclusive spaces.

The District is holding the first training session for school SOGI leads on December 7, 2017. In the spring, the District will also host an evening to educate parents and community partners on how we can support and build an inclusive learning community where all students have an opportunity to reach their fullest potential.

Media Contact:

Edith Loring-Kuhanga
Board Chair
Greater Victoria School District #61
Mobile: 778.676.2571

If you are connected with schools in SD 61, connect with them to ensure they are lining up a training with Ambit (at no cost to them). If you are in SD 62 or 63, bring this to your school district as a way of pushing for change. Let’s do this!