RPTV Weekly News EP77 - Community Gathers for Discussion on Public-School Education Budget Concerns

RPTV Weekly News Show Episode 77 (April 4th to April 10th) - in this weekly news show hosted by RPTV reporters Gabriel Meissner, Fred Alvarado, and Kedar Ahmed, we present news that impacts on Toronto's Regent Park and the surrounding areas.

In this episode we present the following news:

0:00 intro
01:05 Eid Celebration Unites Regent Park in Diversity and Joy;

10:12 Neighbourhood Community Officers Reflect on Challenges and Initiatives in Regent Park;
20:15 RPCHC workers ratify new deal with significant improvements after successful strike;
23:04 Community Gathers for Discussion on Education Budget Concerns;
34:44 Toronto Launches Public Consultations for New 10-Year Action Plan to Combat Anti-Black Racism;
41:13 Ontario NDP Bill Progresses, Pushes for Recognition of Intimate Partner Violence Epidemic;
43:03 Events and Jobs in the community.

This week’s lead story:

TDSB is currently projecting a $27.6M shortfall to cover its operating costs for 2024.

By Fred Alvarado Fred is a community journalist with FOCUS MEDIA ARTS CENTRE

On Tuesday, April 9th, community members gathered on Zoom to hear from special guests regarding a pressing issue: the state of public-school education and budget shortfall amidst community concerns over cuts proposed by Ontario Premier Doug Ford. The education virtual townhall was hosted by Jessica Bell, MPP for University Rosedale.
 
Special guests including MPP Kristyn Wong-Tam, School Board Trustee Deborah Williams, Education Critic Chandra Pasma, and Elementary Teachers of Toronto President Helen Victoros convened to provide insights into the budget, answer questions from attendees, and explore collective actions to improve educational outcomes.

MPP Krystin Wong-Tam stated that “The Ontario government has put school boards across the province in a very challenging position, forcing them to continue to make cuts year in and year out. Currently, the TDSB is projecting a $27.6M shortfall – the TDSB simply does not get enough funding from the province to cover its operating costs. I want our kids to get an excellent public-school education. The path to great schools is smaller class sizes staffed with caring teachers and educational assistants, well-maintained energy efficient schools, and real investment in special education to ensure every child can succeed,” Wong-Tam said.

As discussions continue surrounding the future of education in Ontario, community members are encouraged to stay informed and engaged in efforts to advocate for necessary reforms and support the needs of students and educators alike. Stay tuned for further updates on how the community is mobilizing to address these critical issues and ensure quality education for all.