Why the Windsor-Essex public school board is conducting a student census

The Greater Essex County District School Board (GECDSB) is conducting a month-long student census.

Josh Canty is the school board's superintendent of education, student success, alternative education and equity.

He saidthese kinds of surveys are mandatory, but will help to give the board a better idea of who comprises their student population.

"We are excited to understand who they are and know them better."

Participation

Recently, the nearbyLambtonKent District Schoolboard(LKDSB) released data from its own census, which was conducted in 2022.

Butit became hard to draw many conclusions from the data due to a low participation rate among the student body.

The elementary portion of this census was conducted with parents/guardians standing in for younger pupils.

Similarly, Canty saidparents/guardians can complete the census on their children's behalf, but are being encouraged to also answer the questions with students.

"Parents from JK to Grade8 can do the census for their children at home, or with their children at home."

Consultation

Canty is hoping for a high participation in the census amongGECDSBstudents. The board consulted with numerous stakeholders in creating the survey.

"Groups that we reached out to for consultation before posting the census included parent councils, student councils, our union groups, our 2SLGBTQIA+ community, the principal council, the dismantling anti-Black racism committee, the Indigenous education advisory committee, the special education advisory committee, the newcomer's centre, our Mennonite community, among others."

In addition, Canty said, secondary students have the optionto opt out of sensitive questions. Provisions will also be provided in cases where English is not a first language, or for families who have limited access to technology.