About the HRCO
The Human Rights Commissioner's Office (HRCO) is York Region District School Board's (YRDSB or the Board) arms-length office for addressing matters specific to the Human Rights Code and Board Policy and Procedure #240.0, Human Rights: Code-Related Harassment and Discrimination.
The two primary goals of the HRCO are:
To address complaints confidentially, fairly and in a timely manner; and
To support prevention of discrimination and harassment through education and training for building respectful working and learning environments.
The arms-length nature of the HRCO is key to ensuring that members of the YRDSB community are assured of a fair process that addresses issues without influence from any other department or unit at the Board. The HRCO operates independently with three (3)
governing principles:
HRCO Mandate and Responsibilities
The mandate of the HRCO is to lead the YRDSB community in fostering inclusive and respectful learning and working environments for its students, staff, trustees and other Board community members. Responsibilities within this mandate include the following:
- Addressing human rights complaints
- Overseeing accessibility compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)
- Providing guidance, leadership and education on human rights and accessibility
- Assisting with early resolution and dispute resolution
- Advising and consulting the Board on its strategic goals in all areas toward fostering a culture free of harassment and discrimination
- Developing and implementing relevant policies, procedures and reports