Ontario’s Anti-bullying Legislation:  A New Policy Direction

November 30, 2011: In its introduction of the Accepting Schools Act, the government of the province of Ontario — where Roots of Empathy was born 15 years ago — has offered a comprehensive approach to the pervasive challenge of bullying.

Sweeping in its engagement of all players and provision of consequences, the Act goes beyond previous guidelines, necessitating responsiveness from Ontario school boards and equipping administrations with a crucial anti-bullying toolkit, providing both the legal framework and practical measures to end bullying.

“This legislation builds on the underlay of evidence-based bullying prevention programs such as Roots of Empathy and gives direction and definition for administrators, teachers, social workers, guidance councillors, parent and students. Not only will students be supported by informed and empowered adults they will be part of the solution,” says Mary Gordon, Founder/President of Roots of Empathy.