Ontario Education Minister Proposes School Board Governance Changes

The Ontario government is considering significant changes to the governance model of school boards across the province, prompting concerns about the potential erosion of elected trustees’ authority. In a statement to CTV News, Education Minister Paul Calandra indicated that the existing governance framework is outdated and requires modernization. The proposed changes aim to redefine the role of school board trustees, but critics fear this could centralize power in the hands of provincial authorities, undermining local accountability.

Calandra’s press secretary emphasized that the government does not intend to eliminate school boards entirely. Yet, advocacy groups and educational stakeholders express apprehension about diminishing the influence of elected trustees. Kate Dudley Logue, vice-president of community outreach for the Ontario Autism Coalition, noted, “School board trustees, yes, they are elected by us, and they are there to help families advocate.” She highlighted that trustees have increasingly vocalized concerns over the underfunding of schools, suggesting that the government may be uncomfortable with these rising voices.

The province has already taken control of four school boards, including the Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB). In April 2023, the provincial government intervened following concerns about financial management, particularly after reports emerged regarding a costly executive retreat at a Toronto Blue Jays game. Although trustees claimed they were unaware of the retreat’s expenses and did not attend, the province asserted that mismanagement warranted its intervention.

Critics of the proposed governance changes argue that reducing the role of elected trustees would empower administrators who have faced scrutiny for their spending practices. Gabe Pattuzi, chair of the London District Catholic School Board (LDCSB), expressed his concerns, stating, “This model of governance has been central to the strength and success of the LDCSB. To remove elected trustees is to silence the voices of parents and diminish their say in their children’s education.”

Additionally, the Ontario government is advancing Bill 33, which, if passed, would grant the education minister expanded powers, including the authority to implement school resource officer programs in districts where they are available. This move could further enhance provincial oversight over local education systems.

As discussions around the governance changes unfold, Calandra has committed to revealing the proposed governance model by the end of 2023. The outcome of this initiative could have lasting ramifications for the structure of school boards in Ontario and their relationship with both the provincial government and local communities.