Education Minister Stephen Lecce wants an “immediate review” of the Peel public school board and will appoint two troubleshooters to probe ongoing complaints of racism and trustee dysfunction.“Schools must be safe, inclusive, and welcoming places for students, staff, and the entire community,” Lecce said Thursday in a written statement. “Allegations related to equity in the Peel District School Board have raised concerns, specifically related to anti-Black racism and lack of adherence to governance, leadership, and human resources practices.“These concerns have been raised by families, students, the (board’s) director of education, the board of trustees, and members of the broader community.“Discrimination and prejudice against students is unacceptable. That is why I am confirming our government will be taking action.”The Peel board has struggled recently with equity issues and allegations of anti-Black racism, as well as deep divisions among its 12 elected officials. Last month, a trustee belatedly apologized after referring to McCrimmon Middle School in Brampton as “McCriminal.” The Star also revealed that Poleen Grewal, who is in charge of anti-discrimination initiatives, had launched a human rights complaint against the board, alleging racism harassment. The Peel board said in a statement that it requested “assistance and intervention” from the education ministry on Oct. 17.“Given the many circumstances taking place, we ask that your office offer our board some assistance and intervention in what has become an increasingly difficult board to manage,” board chair Stan Cameron said in a brief letter to deputy education minister Nancy Naylor.Lecce wants the reviewers to start work immediately, “and, upon completion, provide a final report to me with recommendations on how the board could ensure effective board governance that promotes equity, increases accountability ...
|
