The Ontario School Board Association (OPSBA) has distributed a thoughtful resource guide for school boards and trustees to use during the federal election to ensure that candidates hear about the importance of public education. 
Fix Our Schools was thrilled to see the following specific topics addressed and we encourage all citizens to ask their local federal candidates some of the following questions to ensure they understand that publicly funded education is a key Canadian value!
Indigenous Education
OPSBA notes that “schools in Indigenous communities are seriously underfunded and are starved for the kinds of resources that are common in the provincial publicly funded school system. An effective school is housed in a building that is safe, sound and welcoming.”
Questions for Candidates related to Indigenous Education:
- How would you and your party work collaboratively with Indigenous peoples in Canada toward the full and effective implementation of the Calls to Action of the Final Report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission?
- How will you and your political party work to secure federal funding commitments that will ensure equitable funding and equity of opportunity for education in Indigenous communities?
- How will you and your political party work with Indigenous leaders, as well as provincial Ministries of Education, to ensure that Indigenous children have every opportunity to attain an education comparable to children in the rest of Canada?
Technology & E-Learning
OPSBA notes that “the use of technology for learning and teaching can be highly valuable for all students, especially in remote locations, provided they have access to modern, high-speed internet infrastructure. “
Questions for Candidates related to Technology & E-Learning:
- Will your government continue to increase broadband development and implementation to ensure there is equity of access for all school boards across the country?
- How will you invest in technology that enriches the classroom experience for students and teachers?
- Will you support federal funding that allows school boards to ensure that technology in schools is current and relevant for various student pathways?
Capital-Related Issues
OPSBA notes that “many schools have needs that are serious and urgent, impacting the ability to meet current program requirements, including funding to adapt or change classrooms that are no longer relevant or being used. In addition, many school boards are dealing with unique circumstances and, as a result, they are being challenged with capital and renewal costs for their aging schools.”
OPSBA also notes that “serious concerns have recently been expressed regarding capital projects being put on hold or facing delayed final approvals.” and emphasizes that, “where the evidence is clear, schools need to be built to accommodate future population and program growth as well as the elements of a school building beyond classrooms that foster student achievement and well-being.”
Finally, OPSBA highlights that “the federal government recently announced details for the Climate Action Incentive Fund (CAIF) and available funding for schools.”
Questions for Candidates for Capital-Related Issues :
- How can the federal government include dedicated funding that can be directed to school boards for their capital needs?
- How can the government promote similar funding sources/opportunities for school boards