Waterloo Region District School Board implements work-life balance protocol

The Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) has implemented a ‘Disconnecting from Work Protocol’ to support the mental health and well-being of its staff. This initiative aligns with Ontario’s Working for Workers Act, passed in December 2021, which aims to encourage better work-life balance for employees across the province.

The protocol establishes guidelines regarding employee availability, specifically concerning responses to emails and messages. While the board acknowledges that communication is important, it encourages connecting with staff during regular working hours, Monday through Friday. Although staff may receive after-hours messages, they are encouraged to respond during their normal working hours to maintain time with families and personal relationships.

Exceptions to this protocol include previously agreed-upon meetings or scheduled parent and caregiver meetings. The board noted that immediate responses may not always be possible during the day as staff are often teaching or supervising students.