Cathy Varrette, a parent of a special-needs child, regularly attends Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) committee meetings via livestream with a group of parents. However, the recent directive from the provincial education ministry mandated school boards under its control to cease streaming committee meetings, disrupting Varrette’s routine of participating remotely. Determined to maintain transparency and engagement, Varrette decided to personally film the OCDSB meeting but was initially prohibited from doing so due to a recording consent policy. After receiving consent from all parties during a break, she was allowed to resume filming. Despite this, the board maintains a ban on livestreaming by the public or media, raising concerns about transparency and accessibility.
Anthony Wong, a parent and committee member, emphasized the importance of providing access to meeting communications, especially for individuals with disabilities who may face challenges attending in-person sessions. Education Minister Paul Calandra defended the decision to halt livestreams, citing a focus on ensuring productive and student-centered meetings rather than platforms for political commentary. The Ministry assured that media recording of meetings will still be permitted, but the live broadcast aspect is restricted.
Critics, such as Chandra Pasma, MPP for Ottawa West-Nepean and the NDP’s education critic, expressed disappointment in the move, asserting that it limits parental insight into crucial education decisions. Pasma highlighted the significance of livestreaming for parents of children with special needs, for whom attending in person is often difficult. The decision to curtail livestreams has sparked debate surrounding transparency, public engagement, and accessibility within the OCDSB. Despite repeated requests, OCDSB supervisor Robert Plamondon declined to provide an interview on the matter.