“I remain deeply concerned, frustrated, and dissatisfied with the ongoing dysfunction at the Near North District School Board. As I have stated previously, both publicly and privately, the delays in completing the new K–12 school in Parry Sound—and the board’s persistent inability to communicate effectively with parents, students, and teachers—are unacceptable.
The uncertainty and mismanagement of this project have gone on far too long and should never have occurred. Recent statements and actions by the Board have only further undermined public confidence in its ability to manage the project and fulfill its responsibilities to the community.
I am once again calling for immediate and transparent action by the NNDSB, including:
- A clear timeline for how long students will be required to rely on online learning.
- A detailed construction schedule with clear milestones.
- A full accounting of the decisions and mismanagement that led to this situation.
I have asked the Minister of Education to launch a governance review of the school board. Parents and students deserve nothing less. The board has lost sight of its fundamental responsibility; ensuring a safe and supportive environment where every student can learn and thrive.
I will continue to advocate for parents and students by pressing for immediate interventions that resolve this crisis.” – MPP Graydon Smith, Parry Sound-Muskoka