An examination by the Ontario government into the Near North District School Board highlighted issues such as dysfunction and strained relationships that caused delays in the opening of a new school in Parry Sound. The Education Minister has directed the board, located in North Bay, to undertake 15 specific actions promptly to restore effective governance and rebuild trust.
Minister Paul Calandra stated that the report confirms long-standing dysfunction within the Near North District School Board, leading to a loss of public confidence. He emphasized the urgency for the board to address these shortcomings promptly, prioritizing the well-being of students. Calandra warned of further action if necessary to ensure accountability and stability.
The review was initiated following public outcry from parents and students in Parry Sound when it was revealed that a new $58 million JK-12 school would not be ready for the start of the school year. Consequently, students in the Parry Sound area have resorted to attending classes in their former schools, including a partially demolished old high school.
The report revealed that this was not the first investigation into the Near North board’s operations, with three previous Ontario Ombudsman inquiries since 2019 and the appointment of two special ministry advisors in 2019 to address similar concerns regarding governance, human resources, and financial accountability.
The review timeline indicated that plans for a new school in Parry Sound were proposed in 2014, architects were hired in 2021, and the initial opening date was set for September 2023. However, by March 2023, 50 high school staff expressed concerns about the handling of the new school by the Near North board. Subsequently, in May 2023, the board announced a delayed opening for September 2025, with minimal communication on the matter until August 2025, when the school’s unpreparedness was disclosed.
The report attributed the delays in the school’s opening to board dysfunction, lack of leadership, and construction setbacks, including a shortage of skilled workers. It detailed a board environment characterized by division, personal agendas, and irreparable fractures in relationships between the education director and trustees.
The Education Minister has mandated the Near North School Board to fulfill 15 directives within a specified timeframe, including engaging external experts, developing a professional growth strategy, live streaming and archiving board meetings, organizing regular Parry Sound Building Committee sessions, and formulating a community involvement strategy to regain public trust.
The CBC reached out to the Near North District School Board for comment but has not received a response.