Empowering Diversity, Enriching Education
The Conseil des écoles catholiques du Centre-Est (CECCE) is Ontario’s largest French-language school board, serving over 27,000 students across 46 elementary schools, 14 secondary schools, and additional educational programs. While rooted in Catholic values, CECCE welcomes employees of all faiths, fostering a diverse, inclusive environment where everyone contributes equally and feels respected.
The Council actively champions diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) through strategic partnerships that support immigrant recruitment from abroad and in Canada. Collaborations with the Centre franco under the Enseigner en français en Ontario program, the Réseau de soutien à l’immigration francophone de l’Est de l’Ontario, and participation in the Destination Canada Mobility Forum enable CECCE to recruit French-speaking teachers internationally. Locally, partnerships with the Société Économique de l’Ontario, CESOC, CSC Vanier, YMCA and World Skills Employment Centre connect CECCE with French-speaking newcomers.
Campaigns like Suivez notre conseil highlight the Council’s commitment to diverse hiring practices. Job postings actively encourage applications from marginalized groups, including immigrants, and CECCE values foreign qualifications and recognizes prior experience when determining the appropriate salary grid level for new hires.
The organization provides comprehensive support for immigrant hires (both teaching and non-teaching staff) to ensure a smooth transition and meaningful integration. The Diversity Mentoring Program offers tailored training, discussion groups, and one-on-one coaching. Personalized onboarding includes access to an intranet portal, welcome kits, intercultural training and customized orientation sessions. Partnerships with organizations such as Centre franco further enhance the integration of internationally recruited educators.
CECCE maintains a respectful and inclusive workplace through policies such as the Declaration Against Discrimination and the Integrated Equity and Inclusive Education Strategy. Awareness campaigns, cultural celebrations, and leadership training on DEI reinforce these efforts, ensuring a positive and equitable work environment for all employees.
“Receiving this award for excellence in hiring immigrants confirms the Conseil des écoles catholiques du Centre-Est’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. It reflects our vision of an environment enriched by diverse perspectives, in keeping with our values of equity and openness. These talents enrich our schools, inspire our students and strengthen our organization.” Jean-Éric Lacroix, Executive Director, Human Resources.
With over 33% of staff born outside Canada, immigrant employees play a vital role in enriching CECCE’s cultural landscape and addressing staffing challenges in French-language education. Their contributions enhance the organization’s ability to serve its diverse student population and fulfill CECCE’s mission to provide equitable education for all.