Toronto Campaign

TORONTO DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD COMMUNICATION PLAN FOR ALTERNATIVES TO ANIMAL DISSECTION

Decision Sought: The Board is being asked to approve a recommendation ensuring that all secondary schools have current dissection software available and provide the links to current web sites regarding alternatives to dissection to students.

Context: A Direct Line message was published (Appendix 1) on 28 March 2005 referencing The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 11 and 12 Science, and the student expectations regarding dissection and the use of dissection instruments in two courses as well as the Secondary Science Safety Manual "Stay Safe" and the specific quote: Teachers should be aware that some students may dislike handling parts of animals, and others may object on cultural, religious or ethical grounds. No pressure should ever be exerted on students to take part in these activities. Models of skeletons or body organs can sometimes provide a useful alternative to using animal parts. Videos and interactive CDs can also be used. [Page 26]

Issue: Following the Board decision of 25 May 2005 (Appendix 2), for September 2005, a Communications Plan will include:

1. for all Grade 11 biology teachers: a written memorandum and meetings with Science curriculum leaders advising that alternatives to hands-on dissection, including computer or web simulations, must be communicated to each student in their course outline;
2. for all secondary principals: a Direct Line message will be published relaying the above message to them for information and to ensure they confirm that the course outlines have the written memorandum for students; and
3. for all secondary principals: a confirmation will be requested that current dissection software is available as well as links to current web sites regarding alternatives to dissection.