Ontario Education Overhaul: Mayor May Control School Boards

UPDATE: Ontario’s Education Minister, Paul Calandra, has just announced a significant shift in the province’s education governance, suggesting the potential elimination of elected school trustees. During an interview on CBC Radio’s “Metro Morning” today, Calandra emphasized the need for a more centralized and efficient educational system, stating, “For the last 50 years, governments have continuously downloaded responsibility for education to school boards and trustees.”

This announcement comes amid ongoing discussions about improving parental involvement and educational outcomes in Ontario’s schools. Calandra confirmed that while school boards and parent councils will remain, the role of trustees is under serious review: “I’m not considering at this point … the elimination of school boards at all. But the trustees’ position is what I’m 100 percent looking at — the elimination of the trustee position.”

The proposal has stirred debate across the province, especially as Calandra ruled out reducing the current 72 school boards to just four centralized boards. Other provinces, like Nova Scotia, have already moved away from elected trustees, replacing them with appointed regional executives. However, public outcry has prompted Nova Scotia to reconsider reinstating elected positions.

In contrast, New York City has operated under a mayoral control model since 2002, where the mayor appoints a board of education. Critics argue this has not necessarily improved student performance or parental engagement.

Experts like Katina Pollock, an education professor at Western University, warn that removing elected trustees could diminish family involvement in decision-making. “There are fewer avenues for families to be involved in public education without trustees,” she noted. This sentiment echoes concerns raised by Alan Campbell, president of the Canadian School Boards’ Association, who stated that local representation is vital for school communities.

Calandra acknowledged these concerns, asserting that if trustees are eliminated, he will enhance mechanisms for parental input. “This is all about making it better for students, parents, and teachers,” he stated. However, educators like Avis Glaze suggest a hybrid model, combining appointed experts with elected representatives, to maintain democratic engagement while ensuring quality governance.

As the situation develops, parents and educators are urged to stay informed about potential changes that could shape Ontario’s education system. The government’s commitment to improving student outcomes hinges on how these proposals will unfold in the coming weeks.

WHAT TO WATCH FOR: Further announcements from Calandra regarding the timeline for these changes and potential public consultations will be crucial in determining the future of school governance in Ontario. Share your thoughts and stay tuned for updates on this evolving story!