Distribution of circus tickets by area schools raises eyebrows at the school board

The Trillium Lakelands District School Board (TLDSB) has sent area schools a gentle remainder about its policies when it comes to the distribution of for-profit materials in area schools. The move was prompted by concerned parents who complained when their children brought home free circus tickets that they could use, provided they were accompanied by a paying adult.

At the heart of their concern is an intrinsic disagreement with the way animals are used at circuses as well as the use of students to distribute for-profit material.

As per Board policy, students can only be sent home with communication from the Board, their school, and the ministries of Health or Education. In terms of not-for-profit community organizations, whether they can promote their services or programs is left up to the school’s principal to decide.

Our Advertising Policy does not permit promotion of events or services from for-profit organizations through our schools.TLDSB spokesperson Catherine Shedden

“We have reminded Huntsville area schools of our policy and they will ensure this does not happen in the future,” she added in a written statement.

“Not-for-profit organizations can make their information available through the school office. Most schools have a brochure rack where information can be picked up. This is always at the principal’s discretion,” explained Shedden. The schools also have an e-flyer system that not-for-profit organizations can use.

“We also have an e-flyer system called Peachjar which is a unique way for the school, the Board,
and not-for-profits to upload their flyers. It is then sent directly to the (email) inbox of any parent who has registered with Peachjar. If the event does not have a cost or does not lead to a cost, the use of Peachjar is free. There is a fee per school if the event or information flyer does have a fee,” Shedden explained.

You can find more information about Peachjar here. You can also find the board’s advertising policies here.

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