How is the school board organized and run?

In Ontario, the Ministry of Education is responsible for publicly funded elementary and secondary education.

Publicly-funded schools in Ontario are managed by district school boards. Local representatives, called trustees, are elected to the boards during municipal elections. Trustees represent the interests of parents and the general public.

A guide called "Who does what in Ontario's public education system?" explains that school boards are responsible for:

  • Deciding how to spend the funds they receive from the province for things like hiring teachers and other staff, building and maintaining schools and purchasing school supplies.
  • Deciding where new schools should be built and when and if schools should close.
  • Providing programs in schools such as special education, programs for newcomers and French Immersion.
  • Developing local education policy (for example, safe schools, homework).
  • Setting an annual balanced budget for the school board.
  • Tips for parents.
  • Ensuring schools follow the rules set out in the Education Act.
  • Establishing a school council at each school and a Parent Involvement Committee for the board.

You can find out who your trustee is by asking at the school office or contacting your local school board.

Many community agencies can help you find information about school for your children. To find help, go to Services Near Me and search for "settlement services" in your area.

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Last updated: October 28, 2015 4001209