On January 16, 2025, Julie Boncompain and Heather McGhee Peggs from the CSIA Ombuds Office spoke to members about the new CSIA Code of Conduct and complaints process. We were thrilled to see so many members online and interested in resolving complaints and concerns earlier and more effectively. Click below if you’ve missed the presentation.
In the session, we highlighted the important role that everyone in the CSIA community has in ensuring positive, safe, and respectful ski instruction. If you haven’t already reviewed it, we encourage you to find the new CSIA Code of Conduct online and have a look. The policy highlights CSIA’s principles for conduct (respect, responsible teaching, integrity in relationships, and honoring the sport of alpine skiing) and outlines unacceptable behaviours (for CSIA members, and really, in any context!).
What we hope was the biggest take-away from our session is knowing what to do if someone shares a concern about a CSIA member with you:
- Listen and ask questions to understand what the concern is, what the person is looking for, and “How do you think that I can help?”
- Provide guidance on CSIA policies/processes and how to make a formal complaint. They are all online!
- Escalate or consult with the Ombuds Office. It is okay to loop in your supervisor/manager or reach out to the Ombuds Office or have a confidential conversation about “What should I do?” or options for resolving concerns informally. Refer to your reporting responsibilities in the Code of Conduct as well (p.19) for concerns about minors or vulnerable adults.
We at the CSIA Ombuds Office wish all members a snowy 2025 ski season and look forward to speaking with you.