THUNDER BAY CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD

CATHOLIC EDUCATION CENTRE 459 VICTORIA AVENUE WEST THUNDER BAY, ON P7C 0A4 PHONE (807) 625-1555 FAX (807) 623-0431

PINO TASSONE
Director of Education & Secretary

November 11, 2017

The Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board acknowledges the online petition: Change current school
policy regarding head lice in the classroom!! via the website, change.org.

The author, illustrates her concerns and her frustrations regarding Policy 1014 Head Lice Pediculosis as
found on our www.tbcschools.ca website.

Through collaboration with the Thunder Bay District Health Unit, our Board continues to follow our current
policy and procedure protocol when combating head lice, and the stigma it produces.

Through further inquiry into the school associated with this petition, the Principal handled the sensitive
situation appropriately and diligently with care and consideration.

The Policy 1014, which was revised in 2014, Head Lice Pediculosis states: If in the opinion of the principal, in
consultation with the school Superintendent, a parent has not taken effective treatment steps to remove the
pediculosis, a student may be excluded from attendance at school as stated in the Education Act, S. 265
(1)(m).

In reference to this particular situation, proper policy and procedures were followed, with the parent removing
her child from school on her own accord.

The Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board is an inclusive environment. All staff members depict the
attributes that define our Board as a caring Catholic community. Issues and procedures related to head lice
are to be dealt with in a sensitive and respectful manner. At all times, our students are treated with respect,
dignity and where necessary, privacy in matters related to health. A student however, will be sent home if
proper treatment has not been administered to eliminate head lice.

The policy will be revisited next year, and we recognize the community and their concerns during this time.

Yours Sincerely,
A. Korolenko, Communications Officer
Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board