Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility

Introduction

Chaoyin Bilingual School is committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable, and accessible learning environment for all students, staff, families, and community members. We believe that diversity enriches our educational experiences and strengthens our community. This policy aligns with our commitment to the principles of Adaptability, Collaboration, Diversity, Inclusion, Self-Determination, and Universal Design, as guided by the Accessible B.C. Act and our own values in diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Our Commitment

Chaoyin Bilingual School pledges to:

  • Remove Barriers: Identify and eliminate physical, systemic, and attitudinal barriers that may prevent individuals from fully participating in the school community.
  • Promote Equity: Ensure that all members of our community, regardless of background, identity, or ability, have equitable opportunities to thrive academically, socially, and personally.
  • Encourage Inclusion: Build a school culture where diversity is celebrated, all voices are valued, and individuals are supported in a safe and respectful environment.

Guiding Principles

Chaoyin Bilingual School’s commitment to equity, inclusion, and accessibility is based on:

  1. Adaptability: Embracing flexibility in our policies, programs, and practices to meet the diverse needs of our students and staff.
  2. Collaboration: Working closely with students, families, staff, and community members to foster understanding, awareness, and shared responsibility for a more inclusive environment.
  3. Diversity: Valuing the unique perspectives and experiences that individuals bring, recognizing diversity as an asset that strengthens our school community.
  4. Inclusion: Ensuring that all individuals feel welcomed, respected, and included in all aspects of school life.
  5. Self-Determination: Supporting students and staff in making choices and taking ownership of their learning and professional growth.
  6. Universal Design: Integrating accessibility features into our physical and digital environments to support the success of all individuals.

Equity and Inclusion in Practice

Chaoyin Bilingual School is dedicated to implementing practices that foster equity and inclusion across all areas:

  • Curriculum and Instruction: Incorporating a balanced and inclusive curriculum that reflects diverse perspectives, including the integration of Canada’s First Peoples Principles of Learning. We provide individualized support to help each student achieve their potential.
  • Language Support: Recognizing the unique needs of our predominantly Mandarin-speaking student body, we provide support in English language learning to enhance self-confidence and social participation for all students.
  • Community Engagement: Encouraging engagement from families, many of whom speak Mandarin as their first language, to support a bridge between home and school, ensuring a community that values bilingualism and multicultural perspectives.
  • Professional Development: Training our teachers and staff in inclusive practices, including International Baccalaureate (IB) training and accessibility training to best support our diverse community.

Accessibility Measures

In alignment with our Three-Year Accessibility Plan (2024-2027), we prioritize:

  1. Information, Communication, and Attitudinal Accessibility: Streamlining communications across all levels of support, fostering awareness through community events, and expanding inclusive meal options for individuals with dietary needs.
  2. Physical and Architectural Accessibility: Addressing and improving campus access through accessible washroom facilities, safer pathways, dedicated spaces for private meetings, and clear protocols for drop-off and pickup to ensure safety and accessibility.
  3. Technology Accessibility: Providing assistive technology resources and training to staff and students, with ongoing support to ensure effective and inclusive use of technology.

Feedback and Accountability

Chaoyin Bilingual School values ongoing dialogue with our community. To ensure that our Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility policy remains responsive and effective, we invite feedback from students, families, staff, and community members. We will:

  • Post information on our website to highlight progress in our equity and accessibility goals.
  • Provide accessible formats of this policy and related documents upon request.
  • Welcome all questions, comments, or feedback via email at info#(#change to @)chaoyin.ca.