Letter Regarding Teacher Allegations

Note: the below letter contains sensitive subject matter

Dear Oak Bay High and Mount Doug Secondary Families,

The Greater Victoria School District has been made aware of concerning allegations of inappropriate conduct regarding a teacher who has taught at Oak Bay High School and Mount Doug Secondary School. In response, the District immediately commenced an investigation and reported the matter to local police who also opened an independent investigation. The District also notified the Ministry of Education and Child Care and the Teacher’s Regulation Branch.

The teacher has signed an undertaking not to practice to the police and Teacher’s Regulation Branch. The teacher is prohibited from visiting school/Board of Education properties or interacting with students and remains on unpaid leave.

Students known to have been involved have been contacted by the District and/or police services and advised of support services. The District will continue to fully cooperate with police as investigations continue.

As student safety and wellbeing is our highest priority, students are always encouraged to report unsafe or uncomfortable behaviour to a parent/caregiver, staff member, or other trusted adult. We acknowledge and commend the courage of any person who comes forward to speak about their personal experiences. Students seeking support are urged to do so through the police, school counsellors or administration, and/or through the District’s Indigenous Education Department, who are all available to provide invaluable safety and wellbeing services to our learning community.

Further comment or details about the allegations will not be provided while the investigation is ongoing.

Sincerely,

Deb Whitten
Superintendent
Greater Victoria School District No. 61