Edmonton

Alberta school boards reject sex orientation protection policy

The Alberta School Boards Association has rejected a policy proposal that called for protecting gay students and staff from discrimination.
The Alberta School Boards Association rejected a policy proposal at its annual convention put forward by Edmonton Public Schools to protect gay students and staff from discrimination. (CBC)

The Alberta School Boards Association has rejected a policy proposal that called for protecting gay students and staff from discrimination.

The proposal came from Edmonton Public Schools, which approved such a policy last year.

Edmonton board chairwoman Sarah Hoffman says they are disappointed the provincial association did not follow suit.

But she says the board was proud to bring the issue up for discussion at the provincial level.

The Edmonton board's policy calls for ensuring the safety and well-being of sexual minority students, staff and families.

Last year, an Edmonton board member said generic anti-bullying policies aren't as effective in protecting gay students.