N.B. premier calls for calm amid review of policy on sexual orientation in schools

FREDERICTON - New Brunswick’s premier called for calm on Saturday as the province undertakes a contentious review of a policy on sexual orientation in schools. We must treat each other with respect while we have these discussions.”At issue is a review of Policy 713, which the province’s Education Department introduced in 2020. It lays out standards for schools to ensure safe, welcoming and inclusive environments for LGBTQ students. The province is not removing the policy, but instead reviewing three sections “causing confusion and misunderstanding,” Higgs said. The review of the province’s school sexual orientation policy and ensuing debate echoes similar processes playing out in other areas related to the rights of gay, lesbian and transgender students.