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The Division understands that discrimination can have a profound impact on students and staff. In contrast, individuals that see themselves reflected broadly in the school environment have a greater sense of belonging and are more likely to succeed academically and in their careers. Belonging can also help students grow into responsible citizens ready to participate in a diverse democratic society characterized by many different perspectives and beliefs.

The Division continues to work to identify barriers that may be preventing students from reaching their full potential. Additionally, through inclusive teaching practices that focus on the priorities of our Strategic Plan, the Division strives to foster supportive environments that enable all staff and students to succeed.

Additionally, the Division has identified the following DEI priorities based on dialogue with equity-seeking groups of students and staff:

1) Curriculum is Delivered Through the Lens of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

• Students have equitable access to curriculum.
  
• Teachers implement inclusive, culturally responsive pedagogical practices. 

2) Raise Student Voice 

• Students are given agency of their voice and it is honoured through age-appropriate opportunities for self-expression during curricular and extra-curricular activities.   
  

3) Family and Community Engagement 

• The Division raises awareness of, collaborates and supports the diversity in our community. 
  

4) Ongoing Professional Learning 

• Staff are provided with professional development opportunities around Diversity, Equity and Inclusion concepts. 
  

5) Human Resources and School Administrators Grow a Diverse Workforce

• ​​Efforts continue to ensure that staff represent the students they teach. 

SJASD work on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) is led by our Administrator of Equity and Diversity, as well as our DEI Advisory Committee, which is composed of students and staff from equity-seeking groups.​

Additional Resources​

Initiatives, related policies, and legislative considerations
SJASD's DEI work is reflected in the following provincial requirement and SJASD policy. It's also grounded in the following provincial and federal legislation that ensures the services we provide protect the human rights of our entire school community:

• Safe and Caring Schools. This 2015 provincial initiative sets out diversity, equity and inclusion in Manitoba schools.
• Respect for Human Diversity Policy. This 2014 policy asserts SJASD's commitment to supporting human diversity as per provincial requirements.
• The Manitoba Human Rights Code
• Canadian Human Rights Act
  

Human sexuality education & support for 2SLGBTQIA+ students
In response to questions and misunderstandings about sexual orientation and gender identity in schools, SJASD has developed a question-and-answer document to provide clarity to caregivers on what is taught, and how 2SLGBTQIA+ students are supported in our schools.

Human sexuality education in SJASD schools follows strict requirements as set out in Manitoba's Physical Education and Health Education curriculum. SJASD wants caregivers to understand that our support for 2SLGBTQIA+ students is separate, grounded in legislation, and prioritizes the wellbeing of our students. We recommend caregivers review the following document:

• Questions and Answers for Caregivers on Human Sexuality Education & Supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ Students

Note: For additional questions, including what is specifically being taught in your child's classroom, please follow up with your child's teacher and/or school administrator.

 

Diversity Educational Assistant Scholarship Program

SJASD is currently accepting applications for the Diversity Educational Assistant Scholarship Program for 2024–25. The scholarship encourages graduating SJASD students from Indigenous or racialized backgrounds to pursue careers as Educational Assistants. The award covers the cost of obtaining an Educational Assistant Certificate through SJASD's related Continuing Education program. Successful applicants will undertake practicum placements within SJASD.

Number of Awards: Two—one scholarship will be awarded to a graduating Indigenous student and the second to a racialized student.

Eligibility:

• Grade 12 student graduating in 2024.
• Must be Indigenous or a Racialized Person.

Application Period: April 22 to June 14, 2024.

Details: See poster for details.​​

Apply Online

​Contact Us

If you have questions about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, or want to know more about DEI work in SJASD, please contact the Administrator of Diversity and Equity, Manuel Gomes at 204-837-5886 ext. 2145 or manuel.gomes@sjasd.ca.