The Ford government is defending new legislation it says will strengthen oversight and improve accountability across Ontario’s education system – but Catholic teachers warn the bill undermines local decision-making and ignores student voices.
The Supporting Children and Students Act, introduced May 29, gives the education minister expanded powers to intervene in school board decisions based on the “public interest.” It also requires the return of School Resource Officer (SRO) programs in boards where they are offered by local police.
“Parents deserve confidence that school boards are making decisions in the best interests of their children,” said Education Minister Paul Calandra. “We are making it clear that school boards must put students first – not politics, not bureaucracy.”
The bill also aims to strengthen financial oversight, improve transparency at colleges and universities, and recognise student volunteers with a new minister’s certificate.
But René Jansen in de Wal, president of the Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association, says the bill strips power from elected trustees and imposes decisions without consultation. “This is another step away from local democracy,” he said. “It ignores the voices of students – especially those who felt harmed by the presence of police in schools.”
He also criticised the lack of new investments in classrooms, saying teachers are already stretched thin due to underfunding.
The union is calling for the government to consult with teachers, students, and community groups before passing the bill.
Debate at Queen’s Park is expected to continue in the weeks ahead.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)