The Ontario government has made a decision to limit public access to school board committee meetings, raising concerns among educators and parents.
Reports from CityNews reveal that the Ministry of Education has instructed school boards, including the Toronto District School Board (TDSB), to halt the live streaming of their monthly committee meetings.
David Lepofsky, chair of the TDSB’s special education advisory committee, expressed frustration over the lack of explanation for this sudden restriction. He emphasized that the move could create challenges for families, especially those with vulnerable members who are unable to physically attend meetings.
Lepofsky voiced his concerns, stating, “This decision will only add to the difficulties faced by parents advocating for improvements in an education system that often marginalizes students with disabilities.”
Although a spokesperson for Education Minister Paul Calandra did not provide specific reasons for the directive, they assured that all committee meetings remain open to the public. Members and delegates are still able to participate remotely, with the option to attend in person.
The spokesperson emphasized that meeting minutes, agendas, and decisions are made available to the public to uphold transparency and ensure accessibility for families and the wider community.
Critics are questioning the government’s motives, viewing this move as part of a pattern of silencing parental voices. This follows previous actions by the Ford government, including the removal of trustee powers at multiple Ontario school boards.
Ontario NDP leader Marit Stiles expressed dismay, stating, “It’s alarming to witness these measures that appear to diminish parent involvement and transparency within the education system.”