The transcript for this witness testimony is currently in production by our volunteers. It will be available soon here on this page and as a downloadable PDF.

Summary

Dave Annis provides detailed testimony about gender identity policies in Ontario’s Thames Valley District School Board that permit schools to support student gender transitions without parental knowledge or consent. He explains that since 2021, administrators are required to present mandatory training to staff about affirming students’ chosen pronouns, allowing access to opposite-sex washrooms and sports teams, and maintaining confidentiality from parents if students request it. The policies treat intentional or unintentional failure to affirm a student’s gender identity as discrimination under the Ontario Human Rights Code. Staff who don’t comply risk disciplinary action, reports to the Ontario College of Teachers, and potential termination. He describes how the board’s equity and inclusion policies prioritize identity affirmation over merit in hiring practices, requiring 50% of interview candidates to be from self-identified marginalized groups. Resources and curriculum must pass through approval processes ensuring they affirm various identities. While acknowledging these situations aren’t common, he emphasizes parents’ right to know these policies exist. He recommends parents consider withdrawing children from public schools, supporting political parties that protect parental rights, and clearly communicating concerns to education officials. He notes that Catholic schools currently have fewer such policies, though this varies, and suggests homeschooling as the most protective option for concerned parents.

Credentials

Dave Annis is a retired educator with 30 years of experience in Ontario’s public school system, having served as both a teacher and vice principal. He brings valuable insights from his extensive career in education, particularly regarding policy changes affecting students and families. Throughout his career with the Thames Valley District School Board, he witnessed significant shifts in educational policies and practices, particularly in recent years. His extensive experience spans kindergarten through grade 8 education, giving him a comprehensive understanding of elementary education dynamics.\n\nDave Annis provides detailed testimony about gender identity policies in Ontario’s Thames Valley District School Board that permit schools to support student gender transitions without parental knowledge or consent. He explains that since 2021, administrators are required to present mandatory training to staff about affirming students’ chosen pronouns, allowing access to opposite-sex washrooms and sports teams, and maintaining confidentiality from parents if students request it. The policies treat intentional or unintentional failure to affirm a student’s gender identity as discrimination under the Ontario Human Rights Code. He recommends parents consider withdrawing children from public schools, supporting political parties that protect parental rights, and clearly communicating concerns to education officials.