Ontario Minister Signals Major Changes to School Trustees Coming

UPDATE: Ontario Education Minister Paul Calandra has just announced that significant changes to the role of school trustees are imminent, with a final decision expected early in 2026. Speaking at a school in Ottawa today, Calandra indicated a strong inclination to largely eliminate the trustee role within the province’s school system.

This announcement comes as Calandra unveiled funding for two new schools and an expansion of another, emphasizing that there is currently no basis to support the delivery of the Ontario Ministry of Education’s $43 billion budget through trustees.

Calandra first hinted at potential changes shortly after his appointment earlier this year, initially promising to provide a detailed plan by the end of 2025. However, he has since stated that further examination of Charter and constitutional issues—particularly concerning Catholic and French education rights—has delayed his timeline.

In his remarks, Calandra acknowledged that while trustees in Catholic and French boards will maintain a role regarding denominational issues, there are no such guarantees for English public trustees. He noted that he could eliminate this group “in one fell swoop” with a simple stroke of a pen.

Calandra has clarified that he has yet to present a formal plan to cabinet for approval. Importantly, he confirmed that there will be no closures or amalgamations of school boards, nor will public and Catholic school systems merge or charter schools be introduced.

As the situation develops, the implications for Ontario’s educational landscape could be profound. Stakeholders across the province are urged to stay informed as the final decision approaches.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published on December 5, 2025.