On June 27, 2025, the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) entered a period of provincial supervision. This change, directed by the Ontario Ministry of Education, temporarily alters the roles and responsibilities of elected trustees.
Whether you’re a parent, educator, or community member, it’s important to understand how school board supervision impacts trustee activities, communications, expenses, and community engagement. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Provincial Supervision?
Provincial supervision is a process initiated by the Ministry of Education to provide additional oversight and support to a school board during periods of significant governance or operational challenges. A Supervisor is appointed to assume the governance role temporarily, with the Board’s decision-making authority placed on hold during this time.
Trustee Roles and Limitations Under Supervision
Trustee Honorarium
• Suspended as of June 27, 2025
Trustee Expenses
• Only expenses incurred before June 27 at 11:00 AM are eligible
• Submit claims by July 27
• No access to discretionary budgets or Shared Services
Communications
• Trustees cannot use TDSB email for public communication
• No newsletters, updates, or media statements
• Media inquiries must be directed to the Ministry of Education
• Public emails should be forwarded to: Director’[email protected]
• Trustees are encouraged to set up auto-replies with this redirection
• Trustees lose access to TDSB office space
Constituent Contact
• Trustees may not engage in official roles with schools, principals, or councils
• They may continue as parents/caregivers if applicable
Board Participation
• Trustees may not represent the Board or attend events in their official capacity
• Updates pending regarding external boards, student discipline, and training
Staff Interaction
• Communication with staff is limited
• All Trustee questions must go to the Director of Education
Phone Access
• Calls to Trustees are redirected to the TDSB main line: (416) 397-3180
Next Steps
• More updates will be provided by the Supervisor or Ministry of Education
Why This Matters
School board supervision is a temporary measure that strengthens oversight and helps ensure effective governance. During this time:
• Trustees no longer carry out governance duties
• Community outreach in their official role is paused
• Governance authority is held by the appointed Supervisor
Who to Contact
Email: Director’[email protected]
Phone: (416) 397-3180
Media inquiries: [email protected]