I am a Grade 9 student who attends Hebbville Academy on the South Shore of Nova Scotia, and I am unable to attend school dances due to my sensory sensitivity. I have been diagnosed with a Functional Neurological Disorder, which is a manifestation of Neurological Lyme. I have not been able to attend school dances due to the decibels that the music is played at. After attending dances in the past, I have had momentary hearing loss, and pain in my ears that can last for days. The last dance I attended, I only stayed for 45 minutes due to the loud music. This causes much pain and stress, to the point where I cannot attend dances at all anymore. 

According to www.noisehelp.com “the generally accepted standard to minimize hearing risk is based on an exposure to 85 dBA for a maximum limit of eight hours per day.” “A “3-dB exchange rate” formula is applied, which means that for every 3 dB above 85 dBA, the maximum exposure time is cut in half. Noise levels above 140 dB are not safe for any period of time, however brief. For children, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends no exposure above 120 dB. 

As anyone knows, school dances are part of the school culture, where ALL students should be able to attend, feel accepted, safe and also “recognize (affirm and validate) social emotional needs.” I have told others,”if I was in a wheelchair, they would build me a ramp” and that “ I am being excluded for my sensitivity.” I know I am not the only one who has sensory issues and cannot take part in certain activities, such as school dances. 

In writing this petition, I am “promoting student voice and choice by actively taking part in decisions with respect to their own learning and act as leaders within the school community”. 

I am asking the following, on behalf of myself and others: 

1. That the DJ services reduce the decibels at school dances to a reasonable volume, which will not harm the hearing of attending students, and are cognizant of sensory sensitivity. 

2. That the SSRCE provide an inclusive environment for ALL students that attend school dances, which may include a quiet area, and/or headphones for those who wish to use them.