Safety ‘top priority’ for SD23 as students protest following alleged sexual assault

The superintendent of schools for SD23 says the division supports students desire to bring awareness to a culture of consent.

It comes as planned protests have sprung up at high schools across the district in response to an alleged sexual assault students contend is not being dealt with appropriately by the division.

There has been widespread social media video of student protests at Mount Boucherie Secondary School and Kelowna Secondary School, in which they are seen chanting and carrying placards.

In a statement to media, Kevin Kaardal said when a school is made aware of an allegation, it follows detailed protocols it developed with the RCMP and Elizabeth Fry Society. He said a “vast majority” of the incidents take place outside of the school or at private homes.

“In every case, we take action, develop safety plans, and follow any conditions imposed by the legal system. Staff focus on ensuring a safe school environment for all students, provide services, including counselling and connections to outside agencies,” Kaardal said in the statement.

He maintains the district is concerned for the safety of the students at school and online, many of whom have fallen victim to threats, racist and hateful comments, and false information about the concerns being raised by the students, who, he said, have “the good intention of supporting a culture of consent.”

“The district is working with parents and Safer Schools B.C. to try to stop the negative impacts of this activity. The district has contacted the RCMP and the social media platforms to ask that they help stop these hate-filled posts,” he added.

He said staff will continue to work with the students to create more safe and caring school environments.

SD23 will not comment on specific actions or claims to protect the privacy of everyone involved.