The recreational use of cannabis became legal in Canada on October 17, 2018. The Toronto District School Board has provided resources, including lesson plans that align with Ontario’s Health and Physical Education Curriculum, to schools to support staff and students. These lesson plans aim to provide accurate information, teach healthy living concepts and promote substance misuse prevention strategies among youth. The TDSB continues to work with Toronto Public Health and the Ministry of Education regarding the further development of curriculum and professional learning.

Despite the changes to cannabis-related laws, the recreational use of cannabis is not permitted on TDSB property. Similar to alcohol, impairment is also not permitted or tolerated on school property. As with any prescribed medication, cannabis-based medications are permitted in accordance with TDSB Operational Procedure 536 (Medication).

For more information, here are some resources you may find helpful:

Government of Ontario — Cannabis Legalization

Government of Canada — Your Cannabis Questions, Answered

Toronto Public Health — Teens, Alcohol & Cannabis: Stay a Step Ahead

Ontario Physical and Health Education Association — Cannabis Resources

School Mental Health Assist/Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) — Cannabis: What Parents/Guardians and Caregivers Need to Know

Drug Free Kids Canada — Cannabis Talk Kit: Know How To Talk With Your Teen

Ontario Ministry of Transportation — Zero Tolerance for Young and Novice Drivers

Canadian Paediatric Society – Marijuana-what-parents-need-to-know