Ontario’s controversial Bill 33, the Supporting Children and Students Act, became law on Thursday, raising new concerns from school board trustees who say it threatens local democracy in education.
Marianne Larsen, a trustee with the Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB), says the recent dissolution of the board and the passing of Bill 33 have only strengthened her commitment to protecting public education.
“We may have lost this battle, but we need to win the war to save elected school boards,” she said.
Larsen argues the bill gives too much power to the provincial government. She says taking authority away from local boards is risky because students do best when families and communities are involved. She also notes that elected school boards have been part of Ontario since 1816, making them one of Canada’s oldest democratic institutions.
Critics say Bill 33 centralizes control under the Ministry of Education and reduces transparency. The Ford government disagrees, saying the bill is needed to keep boards focused on their main responsibilities. The education minister said the changes are meant to “put school boards back on track.”
Some trustees across the province warn the bill could lead to more closed-door meetings and less access for families. The bill increases the minister’s powers, makes it easier to order investigations, sets new rules for board expenses, and requires boards to work with local police on school resource officer programs.
Despite the changes, trustees like Larsen say they will continue speaking up for local decision-making, accountability, and strong community involvement in schools.
