Opposition Leaders Warn Against Southern Control of Near North School Board
The Ontario NDP, Liberal, and Green Party leaders have raised serious concerns following the provincial government’s direct intervention in the Near North School Board. This move has sparked fears regarding local accountability, education funding, and student outcomes.
Government Intervention at Near North School Board
On October 2, 2023, Education Minister Paul Calandra announced the government’s takeover of the Near North School Board. This decision came shortly after new legislation was passed, allowing the Minister to assume direct control of struggling school boards more easily.
- All trustees were dismissed.
- Calandra assumed the role of supervisor.
- Plans to appoint an interim director of education are underway.
Concerns from Opposition Leaders
NDP Leader Marit Stiles questioned the effectiveness of remote supervision from Toronto. She emphasized the need for local representation, stating that parents deserve answers from leaders within their community. Stiles stated, “Will the Minister of Education be answering their calls? Are we going to get answers?”
Criticism over the logistics of assuming control emerged, with Stiles arguing that government interventions undermine local democracy. She expressed concern over accountability when decisions are made far from the affected community.
Funding and Governance Issues
Both Liberal MPP John Fraser and Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner echoed Stiles’ concerns, highlighting issues with funding and class sizes. Fraser remarked that the Minister’s approach does not address the larger governance problems and neglected issues in education, such as safety and mental health support.
- Fraser criticized the Ministry for not addressing governance problems.
- Schreiner pointed to a $1,500 per student funding cut as a significant issue impacting boards.
- Both agreed that further government oversight will not resolve underlying complications.
Investigation Findings
A government review revealed inappropriate practices within the Near North School Board. The director of education, Craig Myles, was found to have been working from a remote location rather than the main office. Additionally, there were instances of personal expenditures using the board’s corporate credit card.
Myles’ salary increased significantly from $171,000 in 2020 to approximately $303,800 in 2024. This raises questions about the board’s spending practices amid educational funding challenges.
The opposition parties continue to assert that government intervention in the Near North School Board’s functionality only heightens existing issues rather than providing substantive solutions. The current crisis illustrates the broader concerns surrounding educational governance in Ontario.
