The Ontario government has announced $24 million in investments for youth and community programs in an effort to reduce the risk of violence in schools and promote safety for students and educators.
The province said the new investments come in the wake of a rise in violent incidents at several schools across Ontario, which have occurred over the last year.
“Our schools must be safe for students,” said Minister of Education Stephen Lecce in a news release. “Students should never be afraid or nervous about going to school, and parents must be able to trust their children are protected.”
Part of the investment includes $1.5 million to provide students with educational resources on digital literacy to increase student awareness of online misinformation, critical thinking skills and awareness of online hate and threats.
Another $1 million will be used to partner with community organizations to combat racism and dismantle systemic barriers through youth hotlines, counselling services, youth support networks, lesson plans, and classroom materials.
In addition, Ontario is investing $12 million to support the salaries and benefits costs for psychologists, social workers and child/youth workers to enhance additional direct services for students. The province will spend another $4 million to support salaries and benefits for educational assistants working with students who may require additional support.
A program called “Focus on Youth” will also receive over $2.8 million to create and provide employment opportunities for Ontario high school students. The investment marks a 37 per cent increase in base funding already provided to the program.
