Communication needed to protect school children
Schools have a duty of care to protect children and prevent harm, acting swiftly when a child is at risk. Parents should advocate for transparency and strong child protection policies in their children’s schools. Awareness and communication regarding these protocols are crucial for ensuring that schools prioritize student safety above all else. Here are four key questions to discuss with your school’s administration.
DEFINITION AND COMMUNICATION
Does the school have a clear definition of child protection? Are the policies and procedures well understood by school leaders, staff, students, parents, and volunteers? Is this information publicly available and regularly reviewed?
DESIGNATED CHILD PROTECTION OFFICER
Is there a designated Child Protection Officer in the school whom students and parents can easily identify? Are students, staff, and volunteers aware of how to report any discomfort or concerns regarding mistreatment or abuse?
CURRICULUM INCLUSION
Does the curriculum include education on child protection and online safety? And most importantly, is this content reviewed annually by all staff and students?
SAFETY MEASURES FOR ACTIVITIES
What safety measures are in place for school trips, homestay accommodations, or student exchange programs? Are background checks conducted for all volunteers, coaches, parents, and adults involved in these activities?
At your next home and school meeting, invite your school’s administration, counselor, or child protection officer to address these critical questions. Add the following items to your next home and school meeting agenda.
UPCOMING DATES
Nominations for the Federation’s Extra Mile Award are accepted until January 17, 2025, for teachers or staff members who have gone the extra mile for students. The list of past recipients can be found at https://peihsf.ca/awards/.
Home and School Presidents and Co-Chairs should submit their annual reports for the 2024-2025 school year by February 28. These reports will be included in the Federation’s Annual Book of Reports. To get started, review last year’s reports on the federation’s website at https://peihsf.ca/agm/ for tips.
School staff appreciation week, scheduled for Feb. 10-14, allows parents and students to recognize the hard work of school staff, including teachers and custodians. Schools are encouraged to form committees to plan appreciation activities.
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The Prince Edward Island Home and School Federation will hold its 72nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) on April 12, 2025. Member Associations are invited to register parents and educators to attend the AGM. Each association may designate up to five attendees as voting delegates. Registration details will be provided in February.
This is a reminder to watch for children walking to and being bussed to school. Stop when you see the crossing guard’s sign or the red school bus lights flashing.
As we enter this new year, let’s prioritize our children’s safety and actively participate in local home and school organizations. Together, we build better schools.
For more information, go to https://peihsf.ca, email peihsf@gov.pe.ca, or call 902-620-3186. David Schult, president of the PEI Home and School Federation, lives in Charlottetown with his wife and two children attending UPEI and Colonel Gray Senior High School.