Edmonton Public Schools Model for the Collection of Race-Based Data
Abstract
Systemic and overt racism exist within education systems. If we are serious about addressing the problem of systemic racism and its effects within Edmonton Public Schools and on our students then we must first collect data that shows the race of the students we serve and the outcomes that these students experience. Currently, the lack of race-based data is making it difficult to measure educational inequalities and to identify inequities that exist because of racism and discrimination. This report describes recommendations to the Board of Trustees of Edmonton Public Schools to implement race-based data collection in their school board.
Notes
Community organizations: Edmonton Public Schools
Key recommendations:
Given that collecting race based data is one necessary step in working to dismantle systemic racism and racial discrimination, the Edmonton Public School Board formally requests that Administration develop a model for the collection of race-based data in our Division, in consultation with communities in Edmonton impacted by racism.
Location:
- Edmonton
Open access: Yes
Future research / gaps identified:
- Develop a comprehensive model, working with communities affected by racism, for the collection of race-based data and bring it back to the Board for approval.
- Send a letter to the Minister of Education asking for the implementation of the collection of race-based data by schools provincially.
Integration timeline: not defined
Key findings:
- Race-based data collection can improve policy and planning and lead to greater equity for BIPOC students.
- If approved, Edmonton Public Schools could be the first school jurisdiction in Alberta to collect race-based data.
- The practice has been in place in Ontario for many years beginning in 2006, after two years of consultation, when the Toronto District School Board began collecting race-based data.
Key populations: For BIPOC students in Edmonton Public Schools.
