HON. ELIZABETH WITMER
Embrace change … make it work                                             CONTACT LIZ
WITMER SPEAKS TO SCHOOL BOARD GOVERNANCE

| HOME | NEXT |

September 13, 2002
Thank you for your memorandum of July 11, 2002 about municipal councils governing education in Ontario. I appreciate the opportunity to respond.
I note your interesting proposal; however, it has complex legal implications, specifically with respect to educational rights guaranteed under the Canadian Constitution. The Government of Ontario respects the constitutional entitlements of Catholics, Protestants, and Francophones in the area of education. These entitlements are supported by the existing governance structure.
Over the last five years, Ontario has reformed many aspects of the education system, including reducing the number of school boards. During the research phase of the reform process, many alternative governance models were studied, but the present system was considered best for Ontario. Our government is always open to thoughtful suggestions, and your proposal will be given serious consideration.
Thank you again for writing to me.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth Witmer, MPP
Deputy Premier and Minister of Education