At the Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB), we believe our Catholic schools should be the heart of the community, where every student feels they belong and can succeed. It’s important for us to regularly assess how well we’re achieving this vision.
In 2021, following the Ontario Anti-Racism Act (2017), we conducted our first student census. Since then, we’ve been analyzing the data to understand how students are experiencing our schools. This work helps us focus on student success and creating a welcoming environment for everyone.
This October, we shared the results from the 2021 Student Census and Student Outcomes. These reports combine census data with key student information, such as well-being, EQAO scores, graduation rates, IEP support, and suspension rates. The census aims to combat systemic racism and promote racial equity in our schools.
You can access the student census outcome data here.
We’ll conduct another Student Census in 2024-2025, and the data will be used to update our findings and support the Ministry of Education’s new Student Achievement Plan (SAP). This plan focuses on improving academic skills, preparing students for the future, and fostering student well-being. All future reports on student outcomes and census data will align with this SAP framework.
As we move forward, WCDSB will consult with partners throughout the 2024-2025 school year to gather input on how we can continue to enhance student success. In 2026, we’ll welcome the community to a large town hall, followed by several smaller gatherings across the region and in the townships where WCDSB schools are located. These meetings are an opportunity for parents, caretakers, and community members to share their thoughts and ideas, helping to shape the future of our schools and support our students’ success. More details will be shared in the coming months.
Community engagement is essential to our mission. Your input helps shape the future of our schools and the success of our students. By working together, we can create learning environments where all students feel supported, safe, and able to thrive. Every voice matters, and we value the role you play in helping our students reach their full potential.
