Education Minister Paul Calandra has issued a warning to an Ontario school board, stating that he will intervene if the board does not reinstate prom plans for three high schools that had previously canceled them. The Durham District School Board made the decision to cancel the traditional proms citing increasing liabilities and risks associated with organizing such events.
Students at the affected schools expressed frustration and disappointment over the cancellation, feeling deprived of the opportunity to partake in a significant milestone celebrated by many of their peers. Minister Calandra emphasized the importance of prom not just as a party but as a meaningful celebration of academic accomplishments and a pivotal rite of passage that can be conducted safely.
Calandra urged school boards to prioritize the well-being of students and educators in their decision-making processes, emphasizing the need to let students enjoy their youth. He emphasized the significance of putting students first and hinted at potential legislative changes that would grant him more authority to intervene in school board matters, including decisions related to proms.
The bill currently under consideration in the legislature aims to empower the minister with greater oversight capabilities, potentially allowing him to take action to ensure that students’ interests are upheld. The Durham District School Board has not yet responded to requests for comment on the matter.
Earlier, the principals of Brooklin, Brock, and Uxbridge high schools, all part of the Durham board, communicated their decision to cancel proms in a letter to parents, assuring that alternative year-end activities focusing on inclusivity, safety, dignity, and camaraderie would be organized in place of the traditional prom events.
