Canada's Charter of Rights and Freedoms and the interpretation of its provisions by the courts is forcing educators to increase attention paid to student rights, resulting in a more democratic educational system and a better learning environment. Yet many questions still face both educators and parents, as addressed by Watkinson, including the ability of teachers and principals to search students and their lockers; whether teachers can regulate the contents of student newspapers; whether school boards are responsible for sexual harassment within schools; what constitutes corporal punishment and whether it can be used; and what accommodation schools must make for students facing learning difficulties.

Ailsa Watkinson's profile page

Ailsa M. Watkinson has worked as a teacher-librarian, and served in various capacities with the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission for over twelve years. She holds a professional teaching certificate and earned a doctorate in educational administration specializing in human rights law and education. She is currently an Assistant Professor at the University of Regina, Faculty of Social Work (Saskatoon Campus) and is the mother of three children. In addition, she is a frequent media commentator on educational and other social issues.