The Ontario government has introduced new legislation aimed at improving financial oversight and governance in school boards, colleges, and children’s aid societies. The Supporting Children and Students Act comes amid concerns over financial mismanagement in some school districts.
Key Measures in the Proposed Act
The bill includes several measures to increase transparency and accountability:
- Tighter financial controls: School boards must publicly post expenses of key officials online.
- Stronger oversight: The Education Minister will have expanded powers to intervene in cases of mismanagement.
- Merit-based admissions: Colleges and universities must clearly outline admission policies.
- Fee transparency: Postsecondary students will get clearer breakdowns of tuition costs.
Education Minister Paul Calandra said the changes ensure school boards prioritize students. “Parents deserve confidence that every dollar is spent on their children’s education, not bureaucracy,” he stated.
Focus on Student Safety and Success
The bill also introduces measures to support youth, including:
- A new volunteer recognition certificate for students who complete 50+ community service hours.
- Expanded School Resource Officer (SRO) programs in partnership with local police.
- Greater authority for the Ombudsman to investigate cases involving youth in care.
Criticism from Opposition and School Boards
The NDP and education advocates argue the bill ignores key classroom issues.
- NDP Education Critic Chandra Pasma said the government is “focused on policing schools instead of fixing crumbling classrooms or supporting special education.”
- The Ontario Public School Boards’ Association called for more funding, citing “structural deficits due to underfunding” as the real challenge.
Next Steps
The government will consult on parts of the bill, including rules for children’s aid societies. If passed, changes could take effect as early as the next school year.
