School boards across Ontario are being told they need to set up new Student and Family Support Offices, some sooner than others.
The Ford government said the offices will provide parents and guardians with an effective way to get help with their child's education and find solutions faster.
"The offices will act as an additional way to help families get answers on broader community concerns, as well as contentious or complex issues that need to be escalated after speaking with the school," said a release.
The offices will review concerns raised by families that need resolution following initial engagement with the child's teacher and principal. Inquiries will be acknowledged within two business days, and a response will be issued within five.
It said the move will make the education system more responsive and accessible for families, and ensure resources are used to help students, parents, and families be heard.
Student and Family Support Offices will open at five school boards in January 2026. The boards, the Thames Valley District School Board, the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board, the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board, the Toronto Catholic District School Board, and the Toronto District School Board, are all supervised by the province.
A supervisor was appointed to oversee administration at the Thames Valley District School Board last April after a recommendation from PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP's investigation into board finances. The board came under fire after board funds were used to book rooms at the former SkyDome hotel during a three-day retreat in Toronto.
Other school boards will be required to submit a report by the end of March 2026, outlining how they will establish the office by September 1, 2026.
Each office will be led by a supervisory officer.
