Standardizing some provincial processes can help ensure consistency across Ontario's education system. When inappropriate activity occurs in school boards, we need to have the appropriate processes in place to address it, and make sure these actions don't happen again.
That said, the fundamental reason for many of the challenges in classrooms right now is underfunding. We're always willing to engage in conversations about accountability. It would be helpful if these conversations included a discussion about the funding necessary to support students in Ontario in 2025-26.
Let us be clear: the real issue here is that the system is under financial strain. In fact, recent reports and investigations into school boards have mentioned structural deficits due to underfunding.
We should not forget the essential value school boards bring: the ability to respond meaningfully to the unique needs and realities of their local communities. Trustees are elected local leaders who are directly accountable to voters. Their lived experience and deep community knowledge give them unique and vital perspectives, knowledge, and local relationships. Decisions on important issues, such as school naming and School Resource Officers, should be made collaboratively with those in communities, not from Queen's Park.
For the last several years, school board trustees have worked hard to pass budgets knowing they do not have the funding they need for areas like Special Education and student transportation. Despite the challenges we face, school boards and trustees remain focused on what matters most: supporting students.
We look forward to providing further commentary as the bill moves forward through the legislative process.
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