Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) is launching the 2026 Student Census on March 25-April 24, 2026 to help us better understand the demographics of WRDSB schools and improve data-informed decision-making to support the educational needs of WRDSB students.
What is a Student Census?
The Student Census is a confidential and voluntary survey for all parents, families and caregivers of students in Kindergarten to Grade 3 and for all students in Grades 4-12. This work is regulated for all school boards in Ontario under the Provincial Anti-Racism Act, which authorizes all Ontario school boards to collect identity-based student information. The WRDSB’s process has been developed in accordance with the guidance and legislation provided by the Ministry of Education, the Anti-Racism Directorate, the Ontario Human Rights Commission, and the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.
The Student Census will include questions about students’ cultural, social, and sociodemographic identity. It specifically asks about First Nations, Métis (Michif) and Inuit identity, ethnic/cultural background, racial identity, first language, nationality, gender identity, sexual orientation, creed/religious affiliation, health/disability status, socioeconomic circumstances, age, grade, as well as their experiences of belonging and engagement in school.
WRDSB previously completed a Student Census in Spring 2021. The new Student Census will build on the learning from our first survey and provide us with an enhanced understanding of our student needs. It will also allow us to strengthen our capacity to ensure schools promote student achievement, well-being and belonging for all learners.
2026 Student Census Preview
Student Participation
WRDSB is committed to transparency, accountability and ensuring students, parents, families and caregivers are informed about the process and intended use of the information gathered through the Student Census.
All students are invited to participate in the Student Census. Students and parents/caregivers will receive an email invitation to complete the online survey; print copies will be available upon request. Parents, families and caregivers of students in Kindergarten to Grade 3 will participate in the survey on their child’s behalf. Class time will be provided for students in Grades 4-12 to participate.
Every question on the Student Census is optional. Every student and parents, families and caregivers can choose which (if any) questions they wish to answer. Parents, families and caregivers of students under 18 years of age can request that their child not participate in the Student Census by using the Student Opt-Out Process.
Next Steps
We know you may have questions about this process and we are committed to keeping you informed. More information will be shared with parents, families and caregivers in the coming weeks as we prepare to launch the Student Census on March 25, 2026.
Should you have any questions, please reach out to your school Administrator.
2021 Student Census
In the Spring of 2021, WRDSB launched its first-ever Student Census. Parents and caregivers of students in Kindergarten to Grade 3, and students in Grades 4 to 12, were invited to complete the WRDSB’s Student Census survey.
With data representing over 30,000 WRDSB students, the WRDSB Student Census results will be used to help us better support students. With this information, the WRDSB will be able to identify differences and gaps in students’ experiences and outcomes based on their diverse needs.
Find the full report and supporting materials below.
