Ontario Education Minister to Decide on Trustee Cuts Early 2026

BREAKING: Ontario Education Minister Paul Calandra is set to announce a significant decision regarding the potential elimination of school trustees in early 2026. Speaking at an event in Ottawa on Friday, Calandra hinted at a major overhaul of school governance, indicating that he is inclined to largely remove the role of trustees from the education system.

This urgent development comes as Calandra revealed new funding plans, including $43 billion earmarked for education, aimed at constructing two new schools and expanding another. However, he emphasized that nothing has convinced him that the delivery of such a substantial budget should involve trustees.

Calandra initially proposed changes to school board governance shortly after his appointment earlier this year. Although he aimed to clarify his plans by the end of this year, he has now acknowledged a delay as he reviews Charter and constitutional issues pertaining to Catholic and French education rights.

In his remarks, Calandra stated that while trustees in Catholic boards will retain a role concerning denominational matters, the future of English public trustees remains uncertain. He asserted that he could eliminate their positions “in one fell swoop” with a simple decision.

Local officials have expressed strong opposition to the minister’s ideas. The implications of such a decision could drastically reshape the educational landscape in Ontario, affecting how schools are governed and funded.

Calandra confirmed that he has yet to present a definitive plan to his cabinet for approval. Importantly, he reassured stakeholders that he will not pursue the closure or amalgamation of school boards, nor will he merge the public and Catholic education systems or introduce charter schools.

The decision on school trustees is expected to have profound implications for parents, educators, and students throughout Ontario. As this situation develops, many are watching closely for the final announcement, which could redefine the role of governance in the province’s education system.

Stay tuned for updates as we monitor this evolving story.