As an organization rooted in abolitionist and equitable values, we were compelled to investigate the impact of policing within educational institutions in the Greater Sudbury area, given the limited data on this issue and its consequences. In August 2021, we launched the Sudbury Policing Free Schools initiative with the goals of:

1. Ensuring all key stakeholders (community members, teachers, staff, and students) are informed about the Sudbury School Resource Officer (SRO) program and police involvement in schools.

2. Centering the experiences of racialized and/or marginalized students regarding school policing programs.

3. Assessing the emotional, psychological, and academic impacts of SRO programs in Greater Sudbury.

4. Advocating for equitable schools without police involvement.

Our research engaged:

• 84 participants

• 42% identified as 2SLGBTQIA+

• 27% identified as BIPOC

• 15.5% reported living in poverty

The purpose of this research report is to present our findings on policing within educational institutions in the Greater Sudbury Area, highlight the disproportionate targeting of racialized youth, and examine the negative impacts on schools and families. The report draws on insights from advocacy groups, parents, guardians, caregivers, students, and teachers organizing for equitable, police-free schools, and concludes with actionable recommendations to address systemic racism and carceral practices in education.

This report was made publicly available in September 2023.

Suggested citation: Black Lives Matter Sudbury. “Policing Free Schools: A community-based exploration of SRO programs within the Greater Sudbury Area” Retrieved (date) from: (link).