Ontario's Education Minister has announced an urgent review of the York Region District School Board.
Two reviewers will be brought in to address growing concerns about how the board is being run and equity issues including allegations of systemic racism.
In a written statement, Education Minister Mitzie Hunter says, "In November, I met with the board chair and director of education to discuss these concerns. During that meeting, I was not provided with the reassurance that the board had an adequate plan in place to deal with these issues, so I asked the board to submit a report outlining their plan of action by January 13. Unfortunately, their proposal also fails to address these issues."
A report with recommendations is due in April.
There have been several allegations from parents of discrimination by staff. Charline Grant filed a human rights complaint, alleging her son was singled out by a coach for leaving practice early for a religious feast. She says her son has repeatedly been subject to discrimination.
Grant was also on the receiving end of a racial slur by a board trustee.
News of the review, has Grant hopeful that changes will be made. "To this moment, I still can't hold back the tears from rolling down my face, " she says. "It's been a long time."
Grant hopes the review will lead to a policy that clearly outlines racism and imposes stiff consequences.