Ontario Government Accelerates Education Bill Amid Criticism

The Ontario government is fast-tracking legislation that grants the education minister increased powers over school boards, a move critics label as a diversion from pressing issues within the education system. Education Minister Paul Calandra announced the expedited process for Bill 33 during a press conference at Queen’s Park on Tuesday, asserting that the ministry requires expanded authority to intervene in school boards deemed dysfunctional.

Calandra emphasized that numerous examples exist of boards that need oversight. He stated, “If you’re not running your board appropriately, we’re going to step in and we’re going to put you right on track.” The legislation, introduced in May, partly responds to public outrage over a controversial trip to Italy by four trustees from the Brantford Catholic board, which cost nearly $200,000.

The proposed law aims to enhance transparency, grant the minister greater control over school governance, and reintroduce school resource police officers into classrooms. It also mandates that Calandra approve any changes to school names. Currently, the province oversees five school boards due to financial mismanagement, and Calandra noted that while he does not plan to take additional control immediately, he is monitoring the situation closely.

Critics have raised concerns about the focus on this bill instead of addressing core funding issues within schools. David Mastin, president of the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario, labeled the legislation a “distraction from the conditions that exist in our schools today.” He urged the government to prioritize proper funding instead of pursuing what he views as unnecessary power expansions.

Opposition voices, including Chandra Pasma, the NDP education critic, accused the government of rushing the process to limit public input. She stated, “The government knows that nobody wants this bill — that’s why they shut down the opportunity for the public to come and share their voices.” Critics argue that the government is attempting to push the legislation through with minimal debate.

In the current fiscal year, Ontario has committed $30.3 billion to fund school boards, marking a 3.2 percent increase over the previous year. However, many boards and unions contend that this funding does not adequately cover their operational costs.

Bill 33 also impacts the post-secondary education sector by imposing requirements for transparency regarding student fees and ensuring that admissions processes are merit-based. The Council of Ontario Universities has expressed deep concerns, stating that these changes conflict with existing regulations and add to administrative burdens without addressing fundamental issues related to student access.

Furthermore, Mike Schreiner, leader of the Ontario Greens, highlighted that constituents in his Guelph riding are worried about the implications of potential reductions in student fees. He noted that these fees are crucial for various student services, including food banks, mental health initiatives, and campus events.

As part of the broader educational reforms, Calandra has proposed changes to school board governance, including the potential elimination of elected trustees in public boards. He indicated that while Catholic and French boards would still retain some elected representatives due to constitutional commitments, plans for wider governance reform are underway.

Calandra remains vigilant regarding the state of various school boards, including the Near North board, which has faced scrutiny over dysfunctional leadership. He has mandated that the board improve communication with families, especially regarding the delayed opening of a new school in Parry Sound. “I’m expecting a report back from the ministry with respect to have they fulfilled any of those recommendations,” he said, expressing doubt about the board’s compliance given reports of ongoing resistance.

As this legislation progresses, it remains to be seen how these changes will impact Ontario’s education landscape and whether they will address the broader issues plaguing the system.