GEDSB launches PROSE to foster collaborative learning environments with police

by Submission To The Haldimand Press

December 5, 2024

HALDIMAND—The Grand Erie District School Board (GEDSB) is excited to release the Police Resource Outreach Supporting Education (PROSE) modules aligned with Ontario curriculum expectations. PROSE was developed in collaboration with GEDSB staff, the Brantford Police Service, and the Ontario Provincial Police in Brant, Norfolk, and Haldimand counties.

“The safety of our youth is a shared responsibility. When law enforcement and schools work together, we create a stronger, safer community for everyone. Haldimand County OPP anticipates bridging the gap between the schools to foster stronger relationships and collaboration,” said Patti Cote, Media Relations and Community Safety Officer, Haldimand County OPP.

The curriculum initiative was followed by the launch of an extensive review and consultation process. The updated program is guided by recommendations prioritizing inclusivity, transparency, and the unique needs of Grand Erie’s diverse school communities.

GEDSB partnered with police services to co-produce teaching materials to enhance student learning and engagement. The police service partners possess a deeper understanding of some of the topics outlined in the curriculum and the students will benefit from this learning experience. The police presence in the classrooms during these presentations will meet our objective to build positive relationships with students.

“This partnership … is a valuable extension of our commitment to fostering positive learning environments. The PROSE program will provide a consistent approach across all school locations and four police detachments, where every school community member feels safe, welcomed, and included,” said Susan Gibson, Chair of GEDSB.

Key features of PROSE include:

  • Strengthened partnerships: clear communication and collaboration between families, Grand Erie schools, and police.
  • Equity-focused training: enhanced cultural competence and bias awareness training for PROSE officers and staff.
  • Student-led engagement: opportunities for students to co-design programs and initiatives that build trust and respect.
  • Grade-relevant content: educators and police will jointly develop and deliver presentations and programs that align with Ontario curriculum expectations.

The program’s guiding principles emphasize transparency, restorative practices, and a shared commitment to student success and wellbeing. PROSE programs will be aligned with the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum expectations.

This year, work focused on creating modules for two compulsory secondary school courses: Grade 9 Physical Education and Grade 10 Career Studies. This way, all students will have the opportunity to experience this co-delivered learning in their first two years of high school. Writing teams comprised of educators and police officers, working collaboratively, have been focused on the first modules.

The first module, Online Safety and Social Media, is ready to launch. This interactive, research-based, trauma-informed practice addresses the curriculum expectations related to internet safety, online behaviour, and consequences. View the grade-relevant content on granderie.ca for a sample of the presentation delivered in high schools.

Additionally, there is a unit on Human Trafficking, with a focus on recognizing the signs that someone may be in danger of being trafficked, how to help, and who to go to if you are concerned about someone. 

“Through student, staff, and community voice, the PROSE program is an evidence-based initiative to strengthen the relationship between Grand Erie students and local police services. We’re creating a culture of wellbeing and belonging, focusing on revised curriculum connections, and based on educators and police services to come together to redesign relevant and current curriculum connections to support students,” said JoAnna Roberto, Director of Education at GEDSB.

Roberto continued, “This collaboration with police service partners possesses a deeper understanding of some of the topics outlined in the curriculum. The students will benefit from this learning experience, ensuring a consistent and inclusive approach across the Grand Erie District School Board…. Together, we can make a difference in our students’ lives and learning.”