Update on the Ombudsperson’s Investigation on School Exclusions

Jay Chalke, BC Ombudsperson

Earlier this year the Ombudsperson began a systemic investigation into the exclusion of students from K-12 public schools. Our office has received complaints from across the province about students being asked or required not to attend school in person for a variety of reasons, including the students’ best interests, the safety of the classroom and the unavailability of in-school supports. Often, these are informal practices of exclusion that result in students being out of school with little or no instruction from their school or district. We are concerned about the outcomes for these students.

Our investigation is intended to answer critical questions. Are K-12 students being excluded from schools, and if so, what is the extent of these practices across the province? Why are students excluded from school?

It is essential for us to hear all the different perspectives on this issue. We are gathering information from the Ministry of Education and Child Care and all 60 school districts.

We are also hearing from students and families who have lived experience and community organizations that have been involved in inclusive education. In January 2025, we launched a questionnaire for students and their families to share their experiences. We have received a tremendous response to this questionnaire, and we are learning a lot from families who are sharing their experiences with us. We also know that responding to the questionnaire can be difficult and stressful. We are grateful for everyone’s courage, patience and generosity – thank you! Our questionnaire is still open and we are keen to hear from as many families as possible. Please visit our website at bcombudsperson.ca/school-exclusion to complete it.

We will be launching a confidential online questionnaire in May for teachers, educational assistants and other educational professionals. We are also planning to visit schools in the fall where we hope to connect in person with students and staff.

We will join everyone at the Inclusion BC conference Everyone Belongs! on June 19-21. We look forward to seeing you there!

About Ombudsperson BC

We investigate whether provincial and local public organizations in BC are treating people fairly and following the rules. If not, we work to find solutions. Our services are independent, confidential, and free for everyone. For more information about our work, who we oversee, and how to make a complaint about unfair public services, visit bcombudsperson.ca.