October 7, 2025 - Important Update on the Elementary Program Review

Dear Parents,

I am writing to provide an important update on Elementary Program Review (EPR). This review was approved by trustees in May and was scheduled for full implementation for the 2026–27 school year.

After extensive consultation with parents, educators, and students, I have concluded that the changes planned to elementary education would have been highly disruptive for students and families. The EPR changes would possibly have required thousands of students to change schools due to programming changes, placing stress on families and forcing many to navigate a complicated exemption process just to remain in their current school community. The OCDSB was also not in a position to implement such sweeping changes fairly or effectively.

For these reasons, the EPR’s trustee-approved changes to the elementary program will not proceed, replaced with an approach that doesn’t disrupt students and is reflective of community feedback.

My top priority as Board Supervisor is student success and well-being. I believe the best path forward is to strengthen every school, ensuring that programs and specialized supports are available where students live.

Instead of the disruptive EPR program changes, we will move forward with a new approach, shaped by what we heard from parents and educators during consultations. The OCDSB will gradually reduce the number of program streams where it is practical to do so and where students are not compelled to change schools. This new approach will include two elementary program streams, French Immersion and English with Core French, offered as early as grade 1.

This model will allow us to streamline our offerings, reduce unnecessary student travel, and ensure that strong programming is available in local schools. This will take time to implement across the District. Our goal is to make these improvements carefully and thoughtfully, with minimal disruption and maximum support for students and families. We are committed to ensuring all schools are strong on the fundamentals, and that every child has a safe, supportive, and high-quality learning environment. Further details on how we will strengthen all schools will be shared in the months ahead.

I, along with Board staff, work for students and families. We are committed to listening, learning, and delivering the best possible education in the province.

Sincerely,

Robert Plamondon
Supervisor, OCDSB