ALCDSB Unveils Comprehensive 2025-2026 Equity Plan

The Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board (ALCDSB) has announced the launch of its 2025-2026 Equity Plan, reflecting a commitment to enhancing equity and inclusion within its educational communities. This updated plan builds on the initial framework introduced in 2020, drawing on insights and data gathered over the past few years.

In a statement, Carey Smith-Dewey, Superintendent of Education, emphasized the Board’s recognition of the ongoing need for improvement. “We acknowledge that we have work to do to ensure equitable access for all in our Catholic learning communities, and this goes beyond words and performative actions,” Smith-Dewey remarked.

Key Commitments of the Equity Plan

The 2025-2026 Equity Plan outlines five fundamental commitments aimed at fostering an inclusive environment for students, staff, families, and community partners. These commitments include:

1. **Embracing Pastoral Practices**: The Board pledges to implement practices that foster an inclusive Christian community experience for all members of ALCDSB.

2. **Data-Driven Review**: A commitment to continually review data will guide the Board in identifying areas needing change, ensuring that practices evolve based on community needs.

3. **Creating Psychological Safety**: The plan emphasizes the importance of psychological safety in discussions, encouraging open dialogue, honest feedback, and collective progress.

4. **Engagement with Lived Experiences**: ALCDSB aims to engage respectfully with individuals whose experiences have often been excluded, ensuring their voices contribute to the conversation.

5. **Aligning Resources**: The Board plans to realign resources to support equity priorities, creating equitable opportunities across its network.

The development of this plan involved significant contributions from the ALCDSB Equity Steering Community and various partners committed to promoting inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility.

As the ALCDSB moves forward, the focus will remain on ensuring that the goals of the Equity Plan are not only articulated but effectively implemented. The Board’s dedication to fostering a truly inclusive environment underscores its resolve to make meaningful changes in its educational practices.

For more detailed information, the full ALCDSB Equity Plan is available online at [ALCDSB Equity Plan](https://www.alcdsb.on.ca/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=1165052&type=d&pREC_ID=1394976).