Ontario has approved Bill 33, a sweeping education law that gives the education minister more authority, adds tighter oversight of school boards, increases school–police cooperation, and brings in new rules for board finances and school naming. CP24
Ontario’s government moved a major step forward this week as Bill 33, a wide-ranging education bill, passed its third reading in the legislature. The bill, called the Supporting Children and Students Act, now heads for royal assent. Once that happens, the changes will officially become law.
The plan has faced strong public criticism. Many parents, teachers, trustees, and community groups argue the bill shifts too much power to the education minister and reduces local decision-making. They say the bill weakens school boards and makes the system less democratic.
The government has pushed back on those claims. Officials say Bill 33 simply ensures school boards focus on their duties and avoid getting sidetracked from their core responsibilities.
Expanded Powers for the Education Minister
One of the biggest changes lies in the minister’s ability to launch investigations. Until now, the Education Act allowed investigations only in certain situations. Bill 33 expands that significantly. The minister can now order an investigation any time he believes a “matter of public interest” is at stake.
That includes concerns about how a board, a trustee, or a director of education performs their duties. If the minister believes someone has taken or may take actions affecting the public interest, he can issue formal directions.
If the board does not follow those directions, the minister can step in and take control of the board.
New Rules for School Finances
The bill also gives the education minister more influence over school board spending. He can now set rules and guidelines for how school boards manage expenses. Boards must also publish expense information for key officials on their websites. Supporters say the change will add transparency. Critics fear it opens the door to political interference.
Police Presence in Schools
Bill 33 adds a new requirement for school boards to work directly with local police services. Boards must give officers access to school buildings and allow police to take part in school programs. This can include school resource officer programs.
These programs remain controversial. Opponents say some students feel unsafe around police due to past negative experiences. Supporters argue that police can help build stronger relationships and improve safety. Protests at Queen’s Park have highlighted the deep division on this issue.
School Naming Rules
Under the new bill, boards must get approval from the education minister before naming a new school or renaming an existing one. Boards previously handled this process on their own. Critics warn this gives the government too much control over local decisions.
Changes for Colleges and Universities
Bill 33 also includes new rules for post-secondary schools. Colleges and publicly funded universities must assess applicants based on merit and publish their admission criteria clearly. The provincial cabinet will gain the power to regulate some student fees charged by these schools.
Children’s Aid Updates
The bill introduces several changes to the Child, Youth and Family Services Act. The government says these updates will make children’s aid societies more accountable, especially in areas like oversight, governance, and transparency.
