New Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Education Policy Approved by Upper Canada District School Board

Brockville – Executive Superintendent of Human Resources and School Operations Chris Boulay and Josh Harrison, System Principal of Safe Schools, presented a draft policy developed by the UCDSB in line with Erin’s Law at the September 10th board meeting.

Erin’s Law (Bill 123) was passed by the Ontario Legislature in December 2024 (Royal Assent: December 19, 2024) and officially came into force on September 1, 2024. It amends the Education Act, adding a new section (170.0.1) that mandates child sexual abuse prevention and reporting, as well as training, in schools.

The policy directs the implementation of age-appropriate, evidence-informed education on child sexual abuse prevention for all students from Kindergarten to Grade 12.

The policy was passed unanimously, making the UCDSB a leader in the province in advancing this initiative. The next steps are to provide training and resources to staff and to raise awareness among parents, guardians, and students about the available resources.

This policy aims to:

• Increase awareness among students about personal safety, body autonomy, and how to identify and report unsafe situations.
• Support staff in identifying signs of abuse and responding appropriately.
• Engage families and caregivers as partners in student protection.
• Create a school culture that prioritizes trust, safety, and respect.

The UCDSB will implement a comprehensive and developmentally appropriate child sexual abuse prevention education program that:

• It is trauma-informed and culturally responsive.
• Teaches students how to recognize unsafe situations, set personal boundaries, and seek help from trusted adults.
• Includes annual instruction on personal safety and abuse prevention strategies for all students.
• Reinforces that abuse is never the child’s fault.
• It is inclusive of all genders, abilities, and family contexts.
• Provides support for students who disclose abuse or show signs of distress.

All staff will be supported through training, professional learning, and clear protocols related to their legal obligation to report suspected child abuse under the Child, Youth and Family Services Act (CYFSA).