Close review of the Standards of Practice for the Teaching Profession by the HWFAC has revealed that the Ontario College of Teachers is very supportive of the concept of respecting and supporting varying cultures within the public school. It is for this reason that HWFAC is now producing the Declaration of Spiritual Values which will be much more effective in communicating our concerns specifically within Ontario. The Declaration of Family Rights will remain in place for families outside of Ontario.

Two of many examples of excellent support within the Standards of Practice for the Teaching Profession are Section 3(a) which states:

"Teachers will: accommodate the differences in students and respect their diversity."

And Section 3(b) which states: "Teachers will ...help students to connect learning to their own life experiences and spiritual and cultural understandings."

In the event that conflict arises, there is a 4-step approach to resolving the issue. However, rather than suggesting legal intervention, the 4th step is that a grievance may be filed with the Ontario College of Teachers. A grievance can have serious implications for the teacher who in some cases could be stripped of their teaching certificate. While this type of grievance would only be used in extreme situations, it is a very real option which Boards and teachers would prefer to avoid. Beneficial to the family is the fact that the grievance does not carry with it the expense of legal intervention for the concerned family.

Presently, the Declaration is being reviewed by many pastors of various denominations for their input. Following that it is scheduled that the Declaration and covering letter will be available for families in early April. We would encourage you to arrange a time when HWFAC could attend your church and train families in the effective use of the Declaration of Spiritual Values.

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