Oakville Teacher Controversy: Ontario College of Teachers Asked to Review Professional Standards
The province’s education minister says he has asked the Ontario College of Teachers to review professional conduct provisions amid controversy surrounding an Oakville, Ont., teacher’s attire.
“And on that basis, I’ve asked the Ontario College of Teachers to review and to consider strengthening those provisions with respect to professional conduct which we think would be in the interest of all kids in Ontario.”
Images have gone viral online and in the media in recent days, appearing to show a teacher at Oakville Trafalgar High School wearing large prosthetic breasts in class.
Protests were held on Friday and over the weekend regarding the situation.
The Ontario College of Teachers website says it “licenses, governs and regulates Ontario’s teaching profession in the public interest.” It is responsible for licencing teachers, setting ethical standards, investigating concerns, among other responsibilities.
All publicly funded teachers in the province must be certified by the college.
Also last week, trustees with the Halton District School Board (HDSB) met and agreed to review the dress code.
The board has said that it is “committed to establishing and maintaining a safe, caring, inclusive, equitable and welcoming learning and working environment for all students and staff.”
“We strive to promote and support a positive learning environment in schools consistent with our values and to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all students, staff and the community, regardless of their race, age, ability, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion, cultural observance, socio-economic circumstances, or body type/size,” the HDSB said.
