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File with the Ontario Human Rights Commission · Verified 2026-04-14
- Guide
- How to Appeal a School Exclusion in Ontario
- Purpose
- School exclusions of children with disabilities may violate Ontario human rights law. Here is how to respond.
- Last updated
Step-by-Step Guide
- Get the exclusion in writing
If the exclusion was communicated verbally, send an email to the principal asking them to confirm the exclusion in writing and state the reason. Schools must provide written notice.
- Request a formal review
Contact the principal in writing within 5 school days of the exclusion. Request a formal review meeting and state that you believe the exclusion may be unlawful.
- Escalate to the superintendent
If the principal does not respond within 5 school days or denies your review request, write directly to the superintendent. Include all prior correspondence.
- File with the Ontario Human Rights Commission
Exclusions based on disability-related behaviour may constitute discrimination under the Ontario Human Rights Code. Applications can be filed at hrto.ca. There is no filing fee.
- Seek legal aid
Community legal aid clinics across Ontario provide free advice on education rights cases. Contact Legal Aid Ontario at legalaid.on.ca or 1-800-668-8258.
Frequently Asked Questions
A suspension is a formal disciplinary action with a defined timeline, governed by the Education Act. An exclusion is an informal refusal to allow a child to attend school - often communicated verbally - and is not backed by legal authority. Informal exclusions are generally unlawful.
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