How TDSB is addressing the rise in violence in and around Toronto schools.
The concerning rise of violence across the city and particularly, incidents in and around public schools, have prompted renewed discussions to address school safety.
At a December 5th Planning and Priorities Committee Special Meeting, TDSB trustees listened to over 25 deputations from students, parents, adult allies, teachers and community organizations citing their experiences and concerns regarding student safety and the role of police services. Delegations were followed by a presentation on SafeTO: Toronto's Ten-Year Community Safety and Well-Being Plan.
The meeting continued on December 7th with a TDSB staff report on A Collaborative Approach to School and Community Safety: Report 1, and two motions carried related to advocacy for reinstatement of Priority School Initiative (PSI) funding, and the establishment of local neighbourhood safety tables.
I am supportive of this approach which focuses on increased resources with participation from all levels of government, community collaboration and culturally-responsive partnerships to support student learning and well-being. I also urged the board to consider the ways in which racism and discrimination factor into school climate, safety and trust, and to expedite and expand partnerships to better serve high priority populations with intersectional identities and needs.
While many media outlets reported on a possible return of the School Resource Officer (SRO) program, there was no recommendation or motion to reconsider the policing practice proven harmful to Black, Indigenous and other marginalized student populations, ended by TDSB in 2017.
You can learn more about how TDSB is addressing school safety here.
Bill 33 removes decision-making power from locally-elected trustees and centralizes control of school boards, making this a critical moment for public education.
On Sunday, November 9th, Elementary Teachers Toronto President Helen Victoros, Eric McCall from Another Story Bookshop and I will discuss what’s at stake - from democratic representation to creating safe inclusive schools.
Exciting news! The TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon and Canadian Marathon Championships are passing through Parkdale—High Park on Sunday, October 19, 2025. This is a unique opportunity to see world-class athletes up close and to support community champions. Let’s raise spirits and funds!
The land we call Parkdale—High Park is the traditional territory of many first nations including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee and the Wendat peoples and is now home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.
Tuesday, September 30, 2025 marks the 5th Annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, as well as Orange Shirt Day.
Across our public schools, educators and students are learning about the experiences of First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples and how to honour the children of the residential school system and their families. As family and community members, we can learn alongside them by participating in these free local events in High Park and Roncesvalles Village.
I highly recommend the screening of Night Raiders which I’ve had the honour of viewing together with trustee colleagues and school leaders. The Toronto Public Library also offers several opportunities to continue learning free of cost throughout the year, including a Reading for Reconciliation Book List. Learn more about TPL Indigenous Initiatives.