Bill 33 has raised significant concerns among educators, parents, and students alike due to its potential detrimental impact on student well-being and school equity. This legislation, as it stands, incorporates harsh measures and policing practices that do not contribute to a safe and nurturing educational environment.

School should be a place where students feel safe, supported, and encouraged to grow intellectually and emotionally. Bill 33, however, leans heavily on disciplinary actions that can stigmatize students, rather than fostering an inclusive atmosphere. Research has shown that harsh disciplinary measures can have long term negative effects on students, leading to decreased academic performance and increased dropout rates, which contradicts the purpose of educational institutions.

The increased presence of policing practices in schools has not only transformed these educational settings into restrictive environments but has also contributed to the school to prison pipeline. Such practices disproportionately affect students of color (specifically indigenous students), LGBTQ+ students, and those with disabilities. By prioritizing these actions over supportive measures, we risk reinforcing systemic inequalities within both education facility’s AND the education system as a whole.

We are calling for the repeal of Bill 33. Policies must be enacted that prioritize the safety, mental health, and inclusion of students.

Sign this petition to urge the government to take immediate action. We can create educational environments where every student feels valued and safe, ensuring our schools hold the principles of equity and inclusion that they are meant to have.