Graham Shantz

The committee discussed the development of a new strategic plan, which included community engagement through surveys and focus groups, with a final plan expected soon. Updates were provided regarding the annual budget and staffing processes, as well as Ministry of Education curriculum changes for Kindergarten and History. The committee reviewed the status of Parent Reaching Out grants, which support school-level initiatives in curriculum, mental health, and technology. Furthermore, a collaborative parenting study with the University of Guelph was introduced to enhance family connections, and school councils were encouraged to share fundraising ideas.

The board meeting addressed the development and approval of the 2026-2030 Strategic Plan, including stakeholder engagement and future operating environment factors. Key discussions involved an amendment to the start time for the June 23, 2026 meeting, the appointment of the Director of Education as the Freedom of Information head, and an update on Student Achievement Plan indicators covering credit accumulation, job skills programs, graduation rates, course enrollment, and student preparedness. Additionally, the board reviewed new provincial mandates concerning trustee expense restrictions and examined year-to-date expense statements, alongside reports on staff adjustments.

The board meeting focused on providing updates regarding a serious incident at FE Madill Secondary School. Discussions centered on operational resilience, ensuring safety in the learning environment, and supporting the emotional well-being of the school community. Leadership commended the efforts of first responders, internal departments, and staff involved in emergency response and the safe return of students to in-person instruction. The board cautioned against online speculation regarding the event, emphasized the ongoing support from mental health teams, and noted that a police investigation remains active.

The committee discussed a presentation regarding the organizational structure and engagement strategies of the Parent Involvement Committee for a provincial meeting. Additionally, the committee received an introduction to the process for developing the 2026-2030 Strategic Plan, which includes collecting feedback from students, staff, parents, and community partners via an online survey. The meeting also included a standing session to share various fundraising ideas for school councils and established a plan to distribute key takeaways to members following the meeting.

The board agenda included discussions on the approval of a finance software agreement with Sparkrock Edsembli Inc. and the approval of board policies regarding delegation of authority and the roles of the Board Chair and Vice-Chair. Information reports were presented regarding year-to-date expense statements, staff adjustments including retirements and new hires, and the identification of delegates for the Ontario Public School Boards' Association. The meeting also addressed correspondence from various municipal partners regarding provincial consultation on school board governance.