Education Act: Cyberbullying

In light of a recent report from the OECD, "The Protection of Children Online," it is reassuring to know that the recently introduced Bill 18: Education Act addresses the issue of cyberbullying. As stated in the recently released Education Act brochure, there will be a greater focus on "caring, respectful and safe schools" and the proposals in the Act will better equip school boards and staff to respond to situations that impact students and their school environment.

Specifically, the issue is addressed on pages 40 and 41 of the Education Act under Student Discipline. In essence, a principal may suspend or expel a student if, in their opinion, "the student's conduct, whether or not the conduct occurs within the school building or during the school day, is injurious to the physical or mental well-being of others in the school."

To discuss this issue further or find out more about other provisions of the Act, you can engage with Alberta Education directly. CAPSC is also tentatively planning a meeting around the issue of cyberbullying/bullying at a meeting this fall.