SOS TDSB Supports Motion on No Politics in Schools

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SOS TDSB Supports Motion on No Politics in Schools

Toronto, ON – May 29, 2024 – SOS TDSB, a dedicated advocacy group committed to ensuring a non-partisan educational environment, applauds the motion to be presented on May 29, 2024, to the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) Governance and Policy Committee advocating for no politics in schools.

The motion stems from the rising concerns from parents and the public regarding political activities within schools, advocating for a clear separation between academic instruction and personal political views. It also reflects directives from the Minister of Education, Stephen Lecce, who has emphasized the importance of keeping divisive ideologies out of Ontario classrooms.

The motion, led by Trustee Weidong Pei, aims to establish and enforce guidelines that prevent the misuse of TDSB resources for political activism. Key components of the motion include:

1. Policy Review: The Director will present a report by September 30, 2024, detailing existing TDSB policies that maintain appropriate professional boundaries and outlining measures to enforce these policies.

2. Enhanced Guidelines: The motion calls for the development of new guidelines to prohibit political activism in teaching practices, including the use of educational platforms to promote political propaganda or hatred.

3. Transparency in Curriculum: The Director will create accessible public lists of curricula and educational resources used within the TDSB to ensure parents are informed about what is being taught to their children.

4. Alignment with Provincial Standards: The motion recommends adopting the Province of Ontario’s Days of Significance Calendar to prevent the politicization of school events and ensure consistency.

5. Professional Advisory: The Director will request the Ontario College of Teachers to issue a professional advisory, reminding educators of their duty to remain neutral and professional in their roles.

“SOS TDSB believes that our schools should be a safe and inclusive environment focused solely on academic achievement and personal development," said Michael Danishevsky, a representative from SOS TDSB. "We must maintain a clear distinction between education and personal political views to protect the integrity of our educational system and the well-being of our students.”

For more detailed information on the motion, please refer to the full document bit.ly/3X1tVfA

Media Contact: Michael Teper- rmichaelteper@gmail.com or 416.458.7734

About SOS TDSB:

SOS TDSB is an advocacy group dedicated to promoting transparency, accountability, and excellence in the Toronto District School Board. The group works to ensure that all students receive a high-quality education in a non-partisan and inclusive environment.