Our Vision

To empower students to take ownership of their school as a community and encourage a safe and caring environment.

In a nutshell...

The ESP program recognizes that students themselves know best what safety issues are present in their schools. With the assistance of their staff advisors and divisional police officers, students are empowered to plan, organize and execute year-long safety initiatives in their school and local community.

Thousands of Toronto's high school students have already taken leadership roles and made a difference in their school communities by participating in ESP, Canada's largest student-driven high school safety program.

Background

The program was initiated by the Toronto Police Service in 33 Division in 1997. The strong partnership between the Toronto Police Service, the Toronto District School Board, the Toronto Catholic District School Board, le Conseil scolaire de district du Centre-Sud-Ouest and le conseil scolaire de district catholique Centre-Sud with the support of the City of Toronto and non-profit agencies such as ProAction Cops & Kids has enabled the program to expand. In October 2002 there was a city-wide launch of the ESP program. At that time, approximately 30 schools from across Toronto were actively involved with ESP. Since then, the program has grown considerably and there are now over 200 schools in Toronto that are registered in the program. ESP is a priority for the Toronto Police Service and all four Toronto school boards.

Action Plan

The ESP Program operates with the following framework, thus allowing each school to tailor their activities according to the priorities evidenced through the school survey.

Students Gain:

• Confidence, leadership, communication, event-planning and problem-solving skills.
• Increased knowledge and understanding of crime and safety issues and the role of police.
• A network of contacts and friendships with police officers, school staff, other students and community members.
• Credit for volunteer hours.
• A variety of experiences that will assist with future employment opportunities, and diversify their resumes.

 School Benefits:

• Empowers students to take the lead and become actively engaged in making their school and community safer.
• Addresses crime and victimization concerns in the school and community.
• Involves the entire student body and increases school spirit and morale.
• Fosters positive relations between youth and police, staff and community members.
• Has the power to change the culture of your school.

Partners

ESP Pamphlet

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ESP Program Starter-Kit (English)

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ESP Program Starter-Kit (French)

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