March 10th, 2026

Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) is excited to launch the 2026 Student Census on March 25, 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

Parents, families and caregivers of students in Kindergarten to Grade 3 will be invited to complete the WRDSB Student Census with their child on their behalf. Students in Grades 4-12 will be provided classroom time to complete the survey.

Any student may choose not to participate, to stop participating, or to skip a question at any time. Additionally, parents, families and caregivers of students under 18 years of age can ask that their child be exempt from participating in the Student Census.

Information about the 2026 Student Census, including a copy of the survey, WRDSB’s commitment to privacy and confidentiality, as well as Frequently Asked Questions, are available on the WRDSB Student Census website.

Student Census Opt-Out Process

Parents, families and caregivers who would like their child to be exempted from participating in the WRDSB Student Census may request an exemption by March 23, 2026.

There are two ways for parents, families and caregivers to request an exemption for their child:

  • Online: You may ask for an exemption electronically by completing the online form
  • Contact your child’s school: You may ask for an exemption by contacting your child’s teacher or school administrator (by phone or by email).

No action is required for parents, families and caregivers of students in Kindergarten to Grade 3 as you will receive the survey directly to voluntarily complete on your child’s behalf.

If a parent, family member or caregiver does not submit a request to opt-out, students still may choose not to participate in the Student Census at any time.

If you have any questions about the WRDSB Student Census, contact your child’s educator or school administrator. Visit the WRDSB Student Census website to learn more.