politics
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The Big Shift in Ontario Education: What New Student & Family Support Offices Mean for Parents, Trustees, and YCDSB
Ontario is introducing Student and Family Support Offices in every school board under Bill 33. This detailed parent-focused guide explains what these offices are, how they may help, cost concerns, transparency issues, trustee accountability, and how they may impact the York Catholic District School Board (YCDSB). Includes lessons from other provinces and discussion prompts. 1.…
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The Hidden Risks of Removing Ontario’s School Board Trustees
A Big Change on the Horizon The Ford government has floated the idea of getting rid of elected school board trustees. Education Minister Paul Calandra says this could fix mismanagement issues in some boards. But the idea raises big questions: who will speak for parents and local communities if trustees disappear? Why Trustees Matter Trustees are the…
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YCDSB’s Multi-Year Financial Recovery Plan: What Parents Need to Know
The York Catholic District School Board (YCDSB) has recently approved a Multi-Year Financial Recovery Plan (MYFRP) to address a $10.5 million deficit for the 2024-25 school year. This plan aims to balance the budget by 2026-27, ensuring the long-term financial stability of the board. However, several cost-cutting measures—including the discontinuation of literacy intervention programs—have raised concerns among parents and educators. In this…
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What Parents Should Know About School Board Funding
Introduction School board funding is one of the most critical factors in determining the quality of education, access to resources, and student support services. However, many parents are unaware of how funding is allocated, what expenses it covers, and where financial limitations exist. Understanding how school boards receive and distribute funding helps parents advocate for better resources, support…
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How School Budgets Impact Student Learning
Introduction School budgets play a crucial role in shaping student experiences, access to resources, and overall academic success. From teacher staffing levels to classroom supplies, technology, and extracurricular activities, every aspect of education is influenced by funding decisions. In this post, we will explore: ✔ How school funding is allocated ✔ The connection between budgets and student resources…
Yan Zhou on Catholic Education & Advocacy 