OAPCE Joins the Provincial Task Force

 

The Ontario Association of Parents in Catholic Education (OAPCE) is proud to announce our participation in the Ministry of Education’s Task Force to implement the revised Provincial Code of Conduct (PPM 128) for the 2024-25 school year. This initiative aims to refocus education on the basics, improve classroom environments, and enhance communication with parents, students, and educators.

What Is the Task Force About?

The Task Force brings together education partners, parents, students, and health experts to ensure the smooth implementation of policy changes that will positively impact Ontario’s schools. These updates focus on creating safer, distraction-free classrooms while supporting healthy behaviours among students.

Key Highlights of the New Policies

Starting in the 2024-25 school year, Ontario families can expect:

  1. Improved Communication and Clarity

    • Annual parent notifications about cellphone use restrictions and consequences.

    • Report cards including comments on students’ distraction levels.

    • Provincially standardized signage for behavioural expectations.

  2. Enhanced Classroom Focus

    • Uniform cellphone policies requiring devices to be silenced and out of sight during class unless explicitly allowed by the teacher.

    • Social media site bans on school networks and devices.

    • Mandatory training for educators on classroom management.

  3. Health and Safety Initiatives

    • New bans on sharing videos/photos of individuals without explicit consent.

    • Immediate surrender of vape, tobacco, and nicotine products by students, with parental notification.

    • Increased education on vaping and substance use through the Health and Physical Education curriculum.

  4. Funding and Resources

    • $17.5 million for programs to support healthy behaviours and reduce classroom distractions.

    • Investments in digital literacy, safety infrastructure, and grassroots campaigns to deter vaping and cellphone distractions.

OAPCE’s Role

As the voice of Catholic parents across Ontario, OAPCE will play a vital role in shaping how these policies are implemented locally. Our participation ensures that parents’ perspectives and priorities are included in discussions, helping to create a positive impact for students and families.

Why This Matters

The updated Provincial Code of Conduct reflects the Ministry’s commitment to fostering safe, respectful, and effective learning environments. By reducing distractions and promoting healthy behaviours, these changes aim to support student achievement and well-being, empowering students to reach their full potential.

OAPCE is honored to be part of this important initiative and looks forward to working with the Ministry and other stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of these policies.

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