4.18 Conclusion

Legal issues are playing an increasing role in schools. Many of the issues and conflicts that have been endemic to schooling are now being addressed in part through court action. It is important that teachers be aware of the impact of law on schools, and of the implications of such major documents as the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. At the same time, teachers should not see themselves as lawyers or be so struck by legal issues as to forget that their first obligation is an educational one. Teachers and schools can benefit from a careful consideration of legal issues, both old ones and those newly emerging, but it is best if this consideration takes place within a framework of educational purposes and values.