Hamilton School Board: Examining Student Discipline Trends
Recent data reveals a complex picture of student discipline within the Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board (HWDSB) and the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board (HWCDSB). While overall suspension rates are decreasing, the number of expulsions has seen some fluctuations. This article delves into the latest statistics, the reasons behind these trends, and the support systems available to students facing disciplinary action.
Expulsion Numbers: A Year-Over-Year Comparison
In the 2024-25 school year, a total of 59 students were expelled – 44 from the public board (HWDSB) and 15 from the Catholic board (HWCDSB). The HWDSB saw an increase in expulsions, with 44 students expelled compared to 38 the previous year and 28 in 2022-23. However, the HWCDSB experienced a slight decrease, with 15 expulsions, down from 17 the year before.
Of those expelled by the HWDSB, 10 students had identified special education needs, including giftedness. This highlights a critical need for proactive measures and enhanced student engagement strategies, as noted in a February 19th program committee report.
Reasons for Expulsion in Ontario
According to the Ontario Ministry of Education, students can be expelled for serious infractions, including:
- Possessing or using a weapon
- Physical and sexual assault
- Robbery
- Severe bullying
These incidents can occur at school, during school-related activities like field trips, or even in circumstances impacting the school climate, such as cyberbullying. Learn more about student discipline in Ontario.
Disciplinary Processes: What Happens Next?
The disciplinary process varies depending on the student’s grade level. Students in grades 4-12 face immediate suspension pending a hearing committee review. Younger students’ cases are decided by the school principal. Expulsion, unlike suspension, results in removal from a school – or all schools within the board – for an indefinite period.
Support for Expelled Students
The boards are committed to ensuring expelled students continue their education. They are offered opportunities to access alternative learning environments and non-academic supports, such as counselling, to promote positive behaviour. Students may be able to rejoin another school after a period of time or participate in the HWDSB’s Phoenix Alternative Education program, which provides personalized learning and support.
Gerry Smith, a public board superintendent, emphasized the focus on the future: “We’re working with young people who may have made a poor choice, but we’re really focused on the future and getting them in positions for them to be successful.”
Suspension Rates: A Positive Trend?
Overall, suspensions have decreased. In 2024-25, there were 3,339 suspensions among 2,437 students, down from 3,775 the previous year and 4,240 in 2022-23. At the HWCDSB, suspensions also decreased to 1,603, compared to 1,723 in 2023-24.
The boards are actively addressing areas where trends are concerning, such as the increasing number of suspensions involving students with special needs, aiming to understand and address the underlying causes.
Looking Ahead
The Hamilton school boards are committed to fostering safe and inclusive learning environments. By analyzing data, implementing preventative measures, and providing comprehensive support, they aim to reduce disciplinary incidents and ensure all students have the opportunity to succeed.
Kate McCullough is a reporter for the Hamilton Spectator, covering education.
