Voluntary Self-Identification
Wellington Catholic has developed a Voluntary Indigenous Self-Identification policy to assist in identifying and supporting First Nation, Métis, and Inuit students’ success. Data is kept strictly confidential.
The data collected through the self-identification process becomes the foundation of our efforts to further support the success of our Indigenous students. This allows us to advocate for funding that will provide the means to develop and implement supports for all students to experience achievement in both elementary and secondary school.
The board's actions are based on the government of Ontario's First Nation, Métis, and Inuit Education Policy Framework. You can find out more about the province's strategy at www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/aboriginal.
Download the Self Identification form Voluntary Confidential Self-Identification for Students.pdf. If you are a new family to the school, the Indigenous Self-identification form will be included in your child’s registration package.
Why is it important for parents/guardians to participate in the Voluntary Self-Identification?
Our Wellington Catholic DSB schools continually strive to meet your child’s education needs. Completing and returning the Self-Identification form will provide us with the tools required to learn more about student achievement for all students in our system. Our primary goal is to ensure that your child’s learning and developmental needs are met through appropriate supportive programming in the schools. Participating in student self-identification is voluntary.
Who is being asked to Voluntarily Self-Identify?
All new and existing elementary and secondary students are given a Self- Identification at registration or at the beginning of the school year. The information is provided on a voluntary basis.
What box do I select if my child is both Métis and First Nation?
The parent or guardian has the choice to select which ancestral background.
Is it mandatory for parents/guardians to self-identify their child?
No. It is voluntary for parents/guardians to participate in this process. Parents/guardians have the option to not participate if they choose. The student information given is collected as a whole and kept confidential. Verification of ancestral background is not required.
How will my child benefit from answering the Voluntary Self-Identification question?
Understanding how our students are progressing provides valuable information to assess which educational methods and programs are working and what additional supports are still required.
What specific information will be tracked?
Information on ancestry such as First Nation, Métis and Inuit will be collected as a whole. In order to measure the success of all students, establishing baseline student data is required. Particular attention will be given to monitoring grade promotion/retention, academic performance, and graduation rates.
How is the information collected and maintained?
All student information collected is kept confidential. These forms are securely stored to respect privacy and will be treated in the same manner as Ontario Student Record Guidelines, according to the Education Act and Municipal Freedom of Information and Privacy Act.
For further information or questions, please contact the school Principal or our Program Department at (519) 821-4600 Ext. 244