Struggling Democrats attempt to maintain control over school board officials amidst their silence at the local level
In a recent statement, Ontario NDP Shadow Minister of Education, Chandra Pasma, expressed concern over the Ford government's plan to eliminate school board trustees by the end of the year. Pasma believes that this move could result in parents turning to an out-of-touch minister at Queen's Park or inexperienced political insiders for decision-making in their children's education.
The education minister's comments suggest a readiness to move quickly on this matter, which raises questions about the potential for a diminished role for parent and community input in children's education. Pasma's statement expresses this concern, emphasising the importance of local representation for accountability and advocacy for students and parents.
The Ministry of Education's own documents report a growing gap between teacher retirements and student enrollment as the root cause of teacher shortages. Additionally, WSIB data shows that injury claims from educators are increasing year over year, mirroring the growth in rates of violence in our schools.
Pasma also points to the situation in Quebec and Nova Scotia as a warning sign, suggesting that the elimination of school board trustees could lead to similar issues in Ontario. She further warns of potential damage to schools, communities, and children's futures if the plan is carried out.
The Ford government has provided record funding for education, but schools are receiving less funding per student this year than in 2018-19 when adjusted for inflation, with a total shortfall of $6.3 billion. Moreover, 40% of school boards are running a deficit, and the number of boards in deficit is growing under the Conservatives.
In response to the proposed plan, Chandra Pasma has called on the Ford government to stop the reckless plan to eliminate school board trustees. On August 29, 2025, Andrea Horwath spoke in Burlington, ON, opposing the Ford government's minister's intention to close school boards.
The Minister has imposed a new requirement that all teachers in the province spend a day of Professional Development learning about School Resource Officer programs, regardless of whether such a program exists in their board. This move, according to Pasma, further centralises decision-making and undermines the autonomy of local school boards.
In light of these concerns, the future of school board trustees in Ontario remains uncertain, with Pasma's call for the Ford government to reconsider its plan garnering support from many parents, educators, and community members across the province.
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