The Legislative Assembly of Ontario remains on summer recess and resumes on October 28, 2019.
PPM 128 – The Provincial Code of Conduct and School Board Codes of Conduct
The Minister of Education announced changes regarding PPM 128 via the news release, Ontario Takes Action to Focus on Learning. The PPM is being changed to reflect the restrictions on cell phones and other personal mobile devices in classrooms. Most of the changes can be found in the revised PPM’s Introduction (page 1) and the Standards of Behaviour (page 5 and 6). Exemptions are: for educational purposes, as directed by an educator; for health and medical purposes; and to support special education needs.
School boards should review the revised PPM to ensure their board’s policy aligns with the revised language and requirements on or before November 4, 2019. School boards should pass a resolution to amend their policy and post the updated policy on their website.
Q&A for Cell Phone and Other Personal Mobile Devices in Schools
Bill 65, The Safer School Zones Act, 2017 – Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) Regulations
The Ministry of Transportation posted information on the Ontario Regulatory Registry website outlining regulations stemming from Bill 65. The government is proposing to develop a regulatory framework that allows municipalities to introduce automated speed enforcement (photo radar) in school zones and community safety zones. OPSBA first commented on this in May 2017 indicating our support for increased safety measures for our students, parents, school staff and community members. We continue to encourage municipalities and school boards to discuss neighbourhood issues together.
Regulatory Registry
OPSBA Submission re: Bill 65, Safer School Zones Act
Ontario Ombudsman
As of May 1, 2019, the Ontario Ombudsman can take complaints about child protection services and French language services. The Ombudsman has created dedicated units of specialized staff to answer questions, address concerns, conduct investigations, and review complaints. Recently, the Ombudsman’s office has launched its search for a French Language Services Commissioner who, “will be committed to ensuring French language rights are respected in Ontario under the French Language Services Act.”
Other information
- September 5, 2019 News Release, Historic Investment in Ontario’s Francophone Students
- September 3, 2019, Statement from the Minister of Education: Ontario’s First Day of School
- August 30, 2019 News Release, Ontario Addresses School Bus Driver Shortage