​

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the Peel District School Board's Student Census?

The census findings will help the board and our schools to:

• better understand student populations and school communities
• identify and eliminate barriers to student success, inclusion and well-being
• establish effective programs and reallocate resources to where they are needed most

​What types of questions are included in the Student Census?

The Student Census consists of approximately 30 multiple choice questions about student identity, family characteristics, school experiences and student well-being.

Do I need to answer every question on the census?

The Student Census is voluntary. You may choose to skip questions if you do not wish to provide answers, or choose not to participate at all. However, it's important to note that the higher the completion rate, the richer and more reliable the information will be for school improvement and program planning.

I have multiple children in kindergarten to grade 3. Do I need to fill out a separate census for each student?

Yes, you will need to fill out a separate census for each child. Each questionnaire has a unique, specific code linked to each student's ID.

Does my child need to be present when I fill out the questionnaire?

The aim of the Student Census is to capture the voice of all students. You are encouraged to complete the census with your child to capture their thoughts and experiences.

How will my responses be kept confidential?

Your census questionnaire will include an insert with your child's name—this is the only page with your child's name or any other identifiable information. The instructions provided with the census will ask you to remove this insert before placing your completed census in an envelope and sealing it. These sealed envelopes will be shipped by each school to a secure, external company contracted by the Peel board to scan and process responses. This confidential database will be accessed by the Research Department only for analysis and research purposes. These steps comply with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA).

What is the difference between a confidential census and an anonymous census?

The Student Census is confidential, but it is not anonymous. Census questionnaires are labelled with a unique code linked to each student's ID number. This unique code allows the board's Research Department to analyze responses while also using other previously collected data (ex. address, languages spoken at home, grades, etc.), resulting in a more thorough understanding of Peel students. No personal identification—such as a student name or ID number—will appear on the questionnaire to ensure that the information provided by parents/guardians remains confidential.

How will census data be used?

Once responses are processed and analyzed, the Peel board's Research Department will produce a series of reports to help inform board and school decision-making for programs and instruction. Summarized data may also be shared with community partners and government agencies to help them improve their services to best meet the needs of their communities. Data reports or analysis will never single out a student. By law, the Peel board cannot reveal individualized information for any student/parent who completes the census. ​