FAQ

 Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the purpose of the Student Identity survey at Superior-Greenstone District School Board?

    The Superior-Greenstone District School Board is collecting student identity information. A census pilot will be conducted at Geraldton Composite High School. This information is needed to understand students and student needs better, and is necessary to:

    • Get an accurate picture of the composition of the student population;
    • To identify and address barriers to equity of access and student achievement; and
    • To enhance decision-making about programs and supports necessary for student well-being and success.

    This Project is funded by the Ministry of Education.

  • Do other school boards in Ontario collect student identity data?

    Yes, for example, Toronto District School Board, Near North District School Board and Durham District School Board do collect student identity data.

    Student identity data will help the Superior-Greenstone District School Board know our students better. The survey will include questions about student identities such as racial/ethnic background, religious belief, disability, etc. The combined data can be used to shed light on gaps that need to be addressed for student access, achievement and well-being.

    This data is particularly useful to identify systemic barriers that impede students from achieving their individual potential. These types of barriers can exist in policies, procedures and practices and have an adverse effect on students or cause inequity. Research shows that students from historically disadvantaged groups or marginalized groups frequently face systemic barriers. We want to identify and address any systemic barriers because at Superior-Greenstone District School Board the success of every student matters.

  • When will the pilot be conducted?

    The pilot is being conducted at Geraldton Composite High School during November 2020. We aim to conduct a full census of students attending all the schools at this Board in 2021.

  • How much time does it take to complete the student identity survey form?

    It takes 10-15 minutes to complete the survey.

  • Do parents/guardians have to consent for students to complete the survey?

    The survey is voluntary. Parents or guardians and students can choose to opt out.

    We encourage parents/guardians to discuss the survey with their child(ren). Parents/guardians of students in K-6 can complete the survey on behalf of their child. Students in grades 7 -12 can complete the survey themselves, while in class or synchronously.

  • Do I need to answer every question on the survey?

    The Student Identity Survey is voluntary. The parent/guardian or student who is participating may choose to skip a question if they do not wish to provide the answer to a question. However, it is important to note that the higher the completion rate, the more accurate and reliable the information will be for decision-making.

  • How can I find out more about the census pilot at the Geraldton Composite High School?

    For more information you can view the video on this webpage.

    You can also reach out to any of the contacts listed on the webpage if you have a specific question.

  • What if I can't access the survey form online?

    For this pilot, the survey is available online to the students in Geraldton Composite High School. If a student/parent/guardian prefers a paper package one can be provided by the school - contact the school office to request it. For accessibility reasons, alternate formats like paper copies or large print will be available upon request through Principal’s Office at the school.

    Students in grades 9 -12 who are unable to complete the survey online in school with the existing support or accommodation have the option of completing it with their parents/guardians.

  • How will responses be kept confidential?

    The Student Identity Survey is data confidential and is kept separately. This information will be held in strictest confidentiality and kept securely. Access is restricted to authorized personnel. A confidential database will hold the responses. Personal information is collected under the authority of the Education Act, RSO 1990, c. E-2, and will be used in compliance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, RSO 1990, c. M-56.

  • How will census data be used?

    The information collected will be used for the educational and research purposes stated above only. Student data will be collected from all the schools at this Board; individual responses will be combined for reporting purposes. To protect student identities, reports are prepared in aggregate or combined form.

Should you have any additional questions, please call one of the individuals listed here.

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