Nearly four out of five school support staff in Canada have experienced at least one act or threat of physical violence in a single school year, according to a new report that paints a disturbing picture of escalating violence and harassment within the country’s education system.
The findings, based on a survey of 4,000 respondents primarily affiliated with the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) in Ontario, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan, reveal that over 80 percent of support staff report experiencing approximately 30 acts of harassment annually. The report, released this week, suggests that violence and harassment are no longer isolated incidents, but have turn into “structural,” according to researcher Hanya Ismail.
“We knew that violence and harassment existed in Canadian schools,” Ismail stated. “What we didn’t know was the extent and severity of the phenomenon. At this level, it’s no longer a series of isolated incidents. It’s become structural, almost the new normal.”
The data also indicates a significant impact on mental health, with nearly 80 percent of respondents reporting that the violence and harassment they experience affects their well-being. One in four reported symptoms consistent with post-traumatic stress disorder – a rate comparable to that of first responders, who often have access to legal presumptions and structured psychological resources.
The report details troubling incidents, including an education assistant who was repeatedly struck and bitten over several hours, and another employee subjected to blackmail through false accusations of inappropriate conduct. Aggression from parents was also cited as a contributing factor.
A significant portion of these incidents travel unreported, with staff citing discouragement, lack of time, and fear of repercussions as primary reasons for remaining silent. Less than one in five respondents believe that school safety protocols are consistently and rigorously applied.
Researchers are calling for schools to be officially designated as hazardous workplaces, a move they believe would necessitate inspections, clear protocols, and improved access to psychological support. “Treating violence and harassment as genuine occupational risks” is essential, Ismail argued.
The financial costs associated with replacing staff following serious incidents are estimated at $60 million annually. More than half of the respondents indicated they are considering leaving their positions if conditions do not improve. “The situation is serious,” Ismail emphasized. “If nothing changes, we risk exacerbating the staffing shortages. We’re no longer talking just about impressions, but about solid data demonstrating a structural phenomenon.”
The Canadian education sector is overwhelmingly female-dominated, prompting questions about whether there is a reluctance to designate schools as dangerous workplaces due to this demographic reality.
According to the Canadian government’s website, individuals experiencing harassment can contact the 3018 national helpline for support and to report incidents. The website also directs individuals to contact school administration to report harassment.