Company Name: Toronto Montessori School (TMS) Policy Title: Human Rights Policy Policy Owner: Vince Haines, CAO
Approver: Andrew Cross, Head of School Version: 1 Last Review: September 30th 2021
Human Rights Policy Policy Statement TMS is committed to creating and maintaining a working environment that is free from discrimination. TMS recognizes that its employees have the right to work in an environment, which supports the dignity and self-esteem of each individual. All employees have a responsibility to respect the dignity and human rights of their co-workers and the community they serve.
Purpose This policy is guided by the principles set out in the Code, as well as the Ministry of Education’s Equity and Inclusive Education in Ontario Schools guidelines. The purpose of this policy is to support student achievement by embedding the principles of equity and inclusive education into all aspects of the learning environment, and to prevent discrimination and harassment through greater awareness of and responsiveness to their deleterious effects. We will work cooperatively, and in a spirit of respect, with all partners in fulfilling our duty to accommodate. We are committed to ensuring that education on human rights issues is provided for all staff and students. Application This policy applies to all TMS students, employees, and other users such as members of consultative committees, parents, volunteers, permit holders, contractors, and employees of organizations not related to TMS but who nevertheless work on or are invited onto School premises. This policy also covers discrimination and harassment by such persons which occur outside the study/workplace, and which are proven to have repercussions that adversely affect the School’s learning/working environment. Grounds of Discrimination Under this policy, TMS upholds and supports the right to equal treatment without discrimination based on the following prohibited grounds: race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, record of offences, marital status, family status, or disability. Duties and Responsibilities TMS has a duty to maintain an environment respectful of human rights and free of discrimination and harassment for all persons served by it. It must be ever vigilant of anything that might interfere with this duty. In fostering this environment, TMS expects that everyone will: ● ● ● ●
be aware of and sensitive to issues of discrimination and harassment; support individuals who are, or have been, targets of discrimination and harassment; prevent discrimination and harassment; take reasonable steps to remove any discriminatory barriers in employment policies and practices and in accessing programs, resources, and facilities; 79
