All Halton schools are positive spaces. They are welcoming, respectful environments that recognize diversity in:
• gender expression
• gender identity
• sexual orientation
The term positive space refers to the support and opportunity for all students and staff of all sexual orientations, gender identity and gender expressions.
What is a GSA?
The term stands for Gay-Straight Alliance. GSAs are an extracurricular group open to all students regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.
In the Halton District School Board, every high school and many Elementary schools have GSA's. GSA's are open to any student who wishes to attend. According to Bill 13, the Accepting Schools Act (2012), students have the right to form student led groups that promote the awareness and understanding of, and respect for people of all sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions. These groups are supervised by teachers.
Inside and Out Conference
The Halton District School Board hosts an annual one day conference in May in partnership with the Canadian Centre for Gender and Sexual Diversity and the Positive Space Network of Halton. The goal of the conference is to provide a forum for students and staff, through various workshops, to discuss how they can make their schools more welcoming and inclusive.