Student Sexual Assault Protocol – APC043
Reviewed/Revised: January 2026
PURPOSE
To give background and guidance around best practices in situations of student sexual assault within the definitions provided, that, “happen during the regular school day while on or off school property and during school sponsored events or outside the school negative impact on school climate ” (APC013: School Board – Police Protocol).To provide information about reporting prevention and access to support in the context of the definitions of sexual abuse consistent with the requirement of Bill 123. Erin’s Law (Child Sexual Abuse Prevention and Reporting) 2024 – Legislative Assembly of Ontario.
Sexual assault can happen between people in dating relationships, within a family by people in authority, between friends and acquaintances and by strangers (infographic: Sexual violence – Canada.ca). It is addressed within Canada’s Criminal code and sexual abuse falls within the mandate of child protection in accordance with the Child, Youth and Family Services Act, 2017, S.O. 2017, c. 14, Sched. 1 | ontario.ca
There is a connection between sexual assault, sexual exploitation and human trafficking (Human Trafficking-APH036). “Recruiting anyone under the age of 18 years old for the purpose of sexual exploitation is considered trafficking even if no coercion or deception was involved. Those under age 18 have special legal status and cannot consent to engage in sex work” (APC013 Appendix A School Board – Police Protocol). Information about reporting supports and services as it pertains to Human Trafficking is found in Human Trafficking – APH036.
The Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB) does not tolerate any act(s) of sexual assault, sexual abuse or sexual exploitation. Individuals (students) found in violation of the law or definitions of sexual assault within this Administrative Procedure will be held accountable for their actions. Further, the WCDSB will respond to support victims/survivors and will protect others within their schools. Recommended intervention may include treatment for students who have been sexually assaulted will also be part of the response.
