Parents Demand Accountability as School Construction Delays Continue

Frustration and distrust permeated a town hall meeting at Parry Sound High School as parents confronted leaders of the Near North District School Board and Ontario’s education minister regarding the ongoing delays in the construction of a new school. The new facility, intended to serve students from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12, was projected to open by September 2, 2025, but has faced significant setbacks, leaving students to rely on online classes for two weeks before returning to partially demolished older facilities.

The Ontario government intervened in December 2025, taking control of the Near North District School Board following a review that revealed governance failures. Ontario Education Minister Paul Calandra, who is temporarily overseeing the board, addressed parents’ concerns alongside Graydon Smith, the local Member of Provincial Parliament, and newly appointed Director of Education Jay MacJanet.

During the meeting, parents expressed their dissatisfaction with the delay of the $58 million project. Calandra acknowledged the community’s anger and emphasized the importance of restoring trust. “They have a right to be angry. They have a right to be frustrated,” he stated, referring to the community’s repeated disappointments over the years.

Commitment to Timely Construction

Calandra confirmed that the original contractor had been dismissed due to issues such as incorrectly installed exterior brickwork, which must be removed and replaced. He reported that a new general contractor is expected to be appointed by early next month, aiming for the building to be ready by late May or early June. This timeline is crucial to facilitate a smooth transition for students before the new school year begins in September.

Despite these assurances, parents remain skeptical. Many raised questions regarding the adequacy of the new school’s capacity to accommodate future enrollment projections for 2026, 2027, and 2028. Calandra stated that updated enrollment numbers would be released during the budgeting process, anticipated after April.

Concerns about the school’s layout were also prominent. Parents like Nicole Chaput voiced frustration over the plans, asserting that the current floor designs do not ensure sufficient separation between younger and older students. Chaput highlighted the stress her family has endured over nearly a decade of uncertainty regarding school closures and the new facility’s opening.

Challenges of Governance and Trust

Calandra, who is retaining supervision of the board due to its history of dysfunction, pointed to the passage of Bill 33 in late 2025 as a necessary step to enhance provincial oversight of educational institutions. The bill empowers the minister of education to appoint a supervisor for school boards that are struggling with governance issues.

Despite the challenges, Calandra reiterated the government’s commitment to rectifying the situation. “My main takeaway is you’ve made promises, now deliver for us,” he said, reflecting the sentiments of many frustrated parents who have attended numerous meetings without receiving clear answers.

The town hall also addressed broader concerns about safety, class sizes, and contingency plans for student placement, particularly if enrollment exceeds the school’s capacity. As the meeting concluded, parents like Chaput expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of concrete answers regarding these critical issues.

As the Near North District School Board prepares to move forward, Jay MacJanet emphasized the need to shift focus from past grievances to future solutions. “I’ve been brought in to lead this board to bring trust and hope back,” he stated, acknowledging the hurt and trauma experienced by the community.

The situation at Parry Sound High School underscores the challenges faced by educational institutions and the vital need for effective governance and communication. With the construction of the new school still pending, parents continue to advocate for their children’s educational future, demanding accountability and timely action from local leaders.