Safe Schools Recommendation 10.3 in 2023

Abstract

Recommendation 10.3 of the Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board (HWDSB)’s Safe Schools Action Plan 2021–2023 aimed to establish a community-led, independent oversight table with broad representation. The aim of this project was to identify key considerations and approaches for developing an oversight structure that would address this recommendation. A review of the academic and grey literature was conducted to identify existing community-based oversight models within and beyond the education sector. Concurrently, interviews and focus groups were held with 19 students, parents and caregivers, representatives from community organizations, school staff, and community advocates to explore stakeholder perspectives on how an oversight structure could be implemented. We applied thematic analysis to identify three domains: form before function, design considerations, and operational considerations. Findings highlight the importance of community-driven oversight and a “whole city” approach to creating safer, more inclusive learning environments.