An investigation by the Ontario government into the Near North District School Board has revealed dysfunction and strained relationships that caused delays in opening a new school in Parry Sound. Education Minister Paul Calandra has mandated the board, located in North Bay, to undertake 15 actions promptly to improve governance and rebuild trust.
Minister Calandra stated that the report confirms significant dysfunction within the Near North District School Board, leading to a loss of public confidence. He emphasized the urgency for the board to address these issues promptly and prioritize students. Failure to do so may result in further actions to ensure accountability and stability.
The review was initiated following public outcry from parents and students in Parry Sound when it was announced shortly before the school year’s commencement that a new $58 million JK-12 school would not be ready. Consequently, students in the Parry Sound area have been attending classes in their former schools, including an old high school that was partially demolished.
The review highlighted previous investigations into the Near North board, including multiple inquiries by the Ontario Ombudsman since 2019 and the appointment of two ministry advisors in 2019 to address governance, human resources, and financial concerns.
According to the report, the proposal for a new school in Parry Sound was made in 2014, architects were hired in 2021, and the initial opening date was set for September 2023. However, by March 2023, 50 high school staff expressed concerns about the project’s management by the Near North board.
Subsequently, in May 2023, the board announced that the new school’s opening would be in September 2025. The lack of consistent and transparent communication from the board worsened the situation, leading to further delays.
The review attributed the delays in the school’s opening to dysfunction within the board, a lack of leadership, and construction site setbacks, including a shortage of skilled workers. It detailed the board’s internal conflicts, personal agendas, and strained relationships between the education director and trustees.
Given the board’s dysfunctional state and community distrust, the education minister has issued 15 directives that the Near North School Board must fulfill within a specified timeframe. These actions include engaging external experts, implementing a professional development plan, recording and sharing board meetings online, conducting regular meetings of the Parry Sound Building Committee, and developing a community engagement strategy to restore public confidence.
Despite attempts to contact the Near North District School Board for a response, they have not provided feedback.