Who is Reidefine Consultancy?

Reidefine Consultancy is a group of dynamic consultants who were contracted by the York Region District School Board to liaise, engage, create and develop a framework to support the efforts of Dismantling Hate and Oppression within the school entities. Reidefine will take a hands-on, collaborative approach as we engage faculty, students, executives and community to inform the process.

What is a Letter of Information and Consent?

A letter of information and consent is a binding document that provides you with information on the action we are requesting from you. It gives you information on the task and has space for a signature which confirms that you have agreed to participate in our session(s). You can see our letter of information here: https://www.reidefineconsultancy.com/yrdsbletterofinformation

What are the four pillars highlighted in your Letter of Information?

The Four Pillars are the values and collaborative ways Reidefine Consultancy aims to work with staff, students, and community.

They are:

● RESPECT – We hold respect for one another and respect for ourselves. We respect each other’s strengths and weaknesses. We respect our collective ability to bring about positive change.

● LISTEN – With respect as our foundation, we learn to listen with our ears, our heads, our hearts, and all of our senses.

● UNDERSTAND – From listening comes understanding. To understand is to go beyond listening, to process what we have heard and reflect on the new knowledge we receive. If we truly understand who others are and who we are, we can work together as equals, valuing differences and building upon similarities and common goals.

● COMMUNICATE – When people truly understand each other, then they can communicate clearly. With communication, we can create action plans and implement them using practical projects that make a positive difference. When we communicate, we also continue to reaffirm the respect and trust we have for each other, create healthy relationships with others, and help each other achieve our goals.

We commit to uphold these four standards when collecting, analyzing and reporting data and information to inform a process that practices inclusivity and equity across the York Region District School Board.

What is a Fireside Chat?

Fireside Chats, also known as “all-hands” meetings, where the team can hear news, discuss challenges, stay informed, and offer ideas. They can be virtual or in-person. They are a time to discuss important topics and engage and build relationships with people who are connected to the bodies and communities the research is exploring. In this case, the York Region District School Board.

Why is the information being collected important?

The information collected will help to inform the creation of a Dismantling Hate and Oppression Framework. The framework will be a guide on how to effectively implement tools that will change the nature of the YRDSB to a more inclusive, diverse body and aims to cater to a variety of needs.

What are the benefits of being involved?

The benefits of you being involved is primarily, that your voice is heard and is taken into consideration and embedded into the action plan for the framework. Without those who directly live(d), work(ed), and involve(d) expertise, the plan doesn't reflect the voice of the YRDSB day to day community.

Will my name and information be exposed?

All personal information, including names, contact information, voiceovers and any other connecting data, will be removed and kept in a secure place. ID numbers will be assigned in replacement of personal names and information.

How many sessions will I need to participate in?

You are only required to participate in one session. Sessions will be completed in the forms of: interviews (1:1) and/or fireside chats. All sessions will be either in person, phone conversations and/or virtual conferencing (Zoom, WebEx, Teams etc.). Alternatively, you can decide to participate only in our online survey which will be hosted on our website at www.reidefineconsultancy.com/yrdsb . We encourage everyone to at least take part in the survey.

When will information be reported back to participants?

July/August 2023. Updates on our progress will be made on our ReiDefine Consultancy website.

What Covid-19 measure with ReiDefine taking to ensure safety?

ReiDefine Consultancy is required by Public Health to keep all contact information on file to share in any unlikely event of an outbreak. It will be used primarily for tracing purposes. ReiDefine Consultancy also commits to following Public Health Safety measures as they are updated and available.

If I have further questions and/or comments, how do I contact ReiDefine Consultancy?

For more information, please contact us through our email at: yrdsbagainsthateandoppression@reidefineconsultancy.com.

You can also visit our website at: www.reidefineconsultancy.com/yrdsb.