Universal public education is a cornerstone of our democratic society. A strong public education system plays a key role in ensuring that the next generation has the skills and competencies needed to contribute to a fair and prosperous society.
Public education
Research on publicly funded education
Defining success: Views from the next generation
Vincent Atallah, PFE board member and chair of the NextGen Committee, talks about what he learned at our annual conference from a panel of young people discussing what “success” means to them.
Annie Kidder’s blog: What is “non-core” funding?
The Ministry recently asked whether there are“parts of the funding formula that are not core to the delivery of education in Ontario.” Annie Kidder asks what should the core business of education be?
Provincial funding announcements may affect programs for students at risk
On December 14th, the Ministry of Education sent memos to school boards across the province outlining a number of areas where funding is going to be reduced or discontinued. Find out which programs are affected.
People for Education’s response to the provincial consultation on education funding
In November 2018, the Ministry of Education asked for input on education funding for the 2019/20 school year, to help the province "find efficiencies and improve accountability". This is People for Education's response.
Annie Kidder’s blog: The future of public education is the future of Canada
It’s in the public education system itself where hope lies. It is only through systemic change that we can ensure that young people are gaining the skills they will need for the future.
Public education: the future starts here
An article by Andreas Schleicher, Director for Education and Skills at the OECD, about educating students for their future, is a good starting point for our ongoing dialogue about the future of public education.
Standardized testing
When test scores are used as a proxy for overall system success, it can lead governments to target funding and policy in ways that may ignore competencies that are vital for students’ long-term success.
Is teaching the most important job in the world?
Teachers teach the next generation of society. While there are many important professions, none of them affect all of society’s children – and thus all of society – in the way teaching does.
Province to conduct broad consultation on education
The province of Ontario will be engaging in consultations about a range of educational issues – from math and science curriculum to cell phone use in schools.
B.C. curriculum re-design supports students in learning vital competencies
Desert Sands Community School in Ashcroft, BC is supporting the new basics and developing competencies in their students through student-driven interdisciplinary learning.
How publicly funded education works in Ontario
Learn more about the structure of Ontario's education system, how education funding works, and the roles and responsibilities of the people within the system.
Public education in the news
Toronto Star: Ontario education consultations draw 72,000 submissions
In the fall of 2018, Ontario's Ministry of Education engaged in consultations on a range of education issues. The Ministry received over 72,000 submissions via online surveys, letters from individuals and organizations, and telephone town-halls.
Toronto Star: Ontario education cuts to hit vulnerable youth the most, students say
A range of education stakeholders respond to the funding changes announced by the Ministry of Education on December 14, 2018.
The St. Thomas Times-Journal: Will rural push to break away from Thames Valley District school board gain traction?
Elgin County is exploring the possibility of forming its own county school board.