Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging at the WCDSB
Equity work is thriving across the Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB), with a particular focus on elevating student voice. When students feel that their voice matters, we see increased engagement, which leads to a host of positive outcomes:
- Stronger positive relationships.
- Increased trust and respect between students and school staff.
- Improved self-esteem and self-efficacy.
- A greater sense of belonging.
- Enhanced academic performance.
In May 2024, we proudly held our first annual Student Equity Engagement Council (SEEC) Conference. Student leaders from all secondary schools came together on the final day of Catholic Education Week. This inspiring event brought students from diverse backgrounds together to identify the needs within their schools, brainstorm solutions, and hear from speakers who underscored the power of student voice. Teachers, guidance counsellors, chaplains, and senior staff stepped back to let the students take the lead, creating an atmosphere of collaboration and empowerment.
Beyond the SEEC conference, we saw students across the board taking initiative by leading Black History Month programming, organizing Pride Season ceremonies, participating in student panels at conferences, and organizing volunteer opportunities for their peers. These experiences reflect the essence of high-impact equity practices and demonstrate the powerful role of student leadership in fostering justice, equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging.