Dear Ward 13 Community
I hope this message finds you and your family safe and well
As many of you are now aware, the Toronto District School Board has recently come under provincial supervision. This is a significant and deeply personal moment for all of us who care about public education. I want to speak to you directly, not just as your elected Trustee but as a fellow parent, neighbour, and someone who believes wholeheartedly in the power of our schools to shape lives and build futures.
The decision to place the TDSB under supervision follows an independent review commissioned by the Ministry of Education and conducted by PwC. The report acknowledged the complex financial challenges the TDSB has faced in recent years including declining enrolment, rising costs, and limited flexibility due to provincial legislation. While there was no evidence of financial mismanagement, the report raised concerns about the Board’s growing structural deficit and its reliance on one-time funding sources such as proceeds from property sales to balance the budget. Based on these findings, the Ministry determined that supervision was warranted under the Education Act.
You can read the full investigation report here: Ontario Ministry of Education – TDSB Investigation Report (June 2025)
I have mixed feelings about the supervision itself. On one hand I recognize that it may offer an opportunity to reset and refocus our attention and resources on what matters most, delivering high quality education aligned with the curriculum. On the other hand I am deeply concerned about whether your voice, our community’s voice, will continue to be heard at the school board level. Public input is the foundation of a strong and accountable education system and I remain committed to doing everything I can to ensure your perspectives are not lost during this transition.
Although the Board is now under provincial supervision, I still believe trustees have an important role to play as community representatives. I recognize that I could be wrong, and the reality of our role may continue to shift in ways I do not yet understand. That said, I remain hopeful that there will still be meaningful ways for me to support you. I will continue to listen to your concerns, share information to help you navigate the system, and speak up on your behalf through any channels that remain open.
At this time, formal decision-making authority, especially over governance, budgets, and policy, rests with the provincially appointed supervisor. Trustees are no longer permitted to vote on board matters or participate in formal decision-making processes, and we no longer receive remuneration (pay) for our work. There is still much I do not yet know, but I will keep you informed as I learn more. My powers may be limited and the road ahead may be uncertain, but my commitment to you is not.
I know how much our schools mean to you because they mean just as much to me. Every child deserves the chance to thrive, to be seen, and to succeed. That belief is what drives me every single day. While this change in governance may raise questions and concerns, I will continue to represent your voices to the best of my abilities and stand with you through whatever lies ahead. We may be entering an uncertain chapter but I promise you this, I will lean in with everything I have.
With gratitude and hope for the future, truly yours
James Li, Trustee, Ward 13
Toronto District School Board