Consultation - Memorials and Grief Support In Schools
The Public Schools Branch is conducting a consultation to review a policy and procedure entitled "Memorials and Grief Support in Schools." Draft versions of the proposed documents have been made available for your review using the links below. To answer common questions on the documents, there is a Q&A section available on this webpage. Your insights are critical in shaping policies that meet the needs of our schools, and feedback is appreciated using the survey link available on this webpage. The consultation period will remain open until January 31, 2025.
Important Note on Sensitive Content
As part of this consultation, you will be asked to review the proposed Memorials and Grief Support in Schools policy and procedure and provide feedback through a survey. These materials address sensitive and deeply personal topics, including loss, remembrance, and guidance for responding to tragedies such as death by suicide. We recognize that engaging with this content may be challenging and encourage you to approach the materials and survey at your own pace, prioritizing your well-being throughout the process.
Introduction
The Public Schools Branch (PSB) recognizes the profound impact that the loss of a current student or staff member can have on our school communities. To support grieving individuals and foster a sense of compassion and understanding, we are committed to ensuring that memorial activities are conducted with sensitivity, equity, and respect.
A draft policy and procedure have been developed to provide clear guidelines for memorial activities and grief support within schools. It aims to balance the needs of those affected by loss with the PSB’s responsibility to maintain schools as welcoming, supportive environments dedicated to learning and well-being.
Your feedback will help ensure the policy and procedure are compassionate, equitable and supportive of the needs within our school communities. This survey will gather your input on how we can best support schools in planning and managing memorial activities.
Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts. Together, we can develop a framework that compassionately honours those we have lost while supporting the well-being of our students and staff.
Policy and Procedure
Download the Draft Memorials and Grief Support in Schools Policy and Procedure (PDF)
Questions and Answers
What is the purpose of the Memorials and Grief Support in Schools policy and procedure?
The procedure will provide guidance on planning memorial activities in schools after the death of a current student or staff member. It ensures such activities are respectful, equitable, and support the grieving process for the school community.
Why is guidance from NASP (National Association of School Psychologists) being used to guide this policy and procedure?
NASP guidance is used because it provides evidence-based, internationally recognized best practices for supporting student mental health. While based in the United States, NASP’s research-driven strategies are widely applicable and align with our commitment to student well-being. The organization represents more than 25,000 school psychologists, graduate students, and related professionals throughout the United States, Canada and an additional 24 countries worldwide and is the world's largest organization of school psychologists.
Why is equity emphasized in the policy and procedure?
Equity ensures all deaths are treated with the same level of respect, regardless of the individual’s popularity or role. For example, a memorial for a less-known student or staff member should receive the same thoughtful consideration as for a widely recognized student or staff.
What types of memorials are covered by this procedure?
Memorials can include temporary activities like remembrance journals, donations to charities, or community projects. Permanent memorials like photo walls, plaques, or benches are discouraged due to the potential for constant reminders of loss and potential upkeep issues.
Can school-based permanent memorials ever be approved?
Permanent memorials are generally discouraged. However, alternatives like scholarships, community events or donations in the individual’s name may be considered appropriate.
Why are school-based permanent memorials discouraged?
Permanent memorials may become a source of distress for some students and staff or fall into disrepair. For example, if a commemorative bench becomes weathered or damaged, it may inadvertently cause further grief.
What is a spontaneous memorial?
A spontaneous memorial is a temporary tribute created by students or staff after a death. It may include flowers, photos, and personal notes, often left near a locker or another meaningful space.
How long will a spontaneous memorial remain in place?
Spontaneous memorials typically remain for one to two weeks or until the funeral/celebration of life has concluded. Families and students will be informed in advance about the timeframe.
What happens to items from a spontaneous memorial after it is removed?
Items such as cards, notes, or photos may be offered to the family if they wish. For example, a memory book with collected notes could be created and gifted to the family.
Can a school hold a memorial service?
Memorial services or funerals should not be held on school grounds. However, schools may close for students and staff to attend a service off-site when it occurs during a school day.
How are memorials addressed at graduation ceremonies?
At graduation, a deceased student in their grade 12 year may be honoured with the family’s permission. For instance, a posthumous diploma for the student can be awarded and noted in the program.
How is communication with the grieving family handled?
It is recommended that one designated person serves as the primary contact with the family to maintain consistency and sensitivity. This ensures that all decisions, like sharing information with the school community, are made with the family’s consent.
Can students share their memories?
Yes, schools may set up a remembrance journal or letter-writing area where students can write or draw their thoughts.
What about existing memorials that don’t align with this procedure?
Schools will assess existing memorials and consult with families and community members before making any changes. For example, a tribute might be moved to a virtual memorial or a scholarship fund in the individual’s name could be created.
Where can I learn more or provide feedback?
You can review the full procedure or share feedback through the Public Schools Branch’s consultation survey.