Former Flame helping to keep CBE respectful

The Calgary Board of Education is getting a lesson in respect from former Calgary Flame Sheldon Kennedy.

The CBE has acquired the Respect in Workplace program from Respect Group Inc., the abuse, bullying and harassment prevention organization founded by Kennedy and Wayne McNeil.

“This online tool is an excellent way for us to build on CBE policies and practices that are already in place to support a positive workplace,” said Naomi Johnson, CBE chief superintendent. “It increases awareness and understanding of workplace harassment and appropriate behaviour, while supporting our existing regulations.”

The program explores appropriate behaviour in the workplace, employee rights, workplace bullying, discrimination and harassment, as well as general responsibilities of employees and managers.

“By supporting these programs, the Calgary Board of Education has added another set of useful learning tools to help identify and address inappropriate behaviour,” said Sheldon Kennedy. “We are pleased to see the CBE taking this positive step to empower employees through proactive education.”

Respect Group programs are already being utilized by several Alberta school districts, including Foothills School Division and Rocky View Schools. Respect Group offerings also align with expectations around harassment and bullying that appear in the province’s new Education Act.