6013 – Education on Substance Use and Addictive Behaviours

Legal References
Education Act
Policy/Program Memorandum 169 – Student Mental Health
Related References
Board Policy 6000 – Safe Schools
Mental Health and Addictions Strategic Plan
Effective Date
January 22, 2018
Revisions
February 10, 2020, November 10, 2025
Reviewed
.

1. Purpose

1.1 The Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) believes that education is a critical strategy that can help prevent students from developing problematic addictions to substances and behaviours.

1.2 Recognizing that, despite education, students may find themselves struggling with addictions to substances and behaviours, the WRDSB collaborates with community service providers to ensure students have access to a mental health system of care.

2. Application

2.1 The WRDSB teaches elementary and secondary students about substance use and addictive behaviours in accordance with The Ontario Curriculum, Health and Physical Education.

2.2 In partnership with Region of Waterloo Public Health, educators receive professional development about substance use, addiction and wellness.

2.3 In alignment with the Mental Health and Addictions Strategic Plan, educators receive professional development to implement Tier 1 supports and to refer students to Tier 2 supports, such as Social Workers and Psychology staff members in schools. With increased awareness, educators may refer students, families and caregivers to Tier 3 supports, which involve appropriate and identity-affirming community resources and supports.

2.4 The WRDSB collaborates with a number of community partner agencies and service providers to deliver education programs and services in alignment with the Mental Health and Addictions Strategic Plan.

2.5 The WRDSB will regularly and publicly communicate the goals and key actions of the Mental Health and Addictions Strategic Plan.

6013 – Education on Substance Use and Addictive Behaviours