Ontario’s education minister, Paul Calandra, has issued a clear directive to parents, urging them not to remove their children from school for sports tournaments during the upcoming academic year. This comes amid a broader push for education reform, which includes potential changes to how students use social media. The minister emphasized that education remains the top priority for students, even for those engaged in high-level athletic programs.
The new attendance policy set to take effect in the next school year will see attendance and participation contribute either 10 or 15 percent toward a student’s final grade, depending on their grade level. For students in Grades 9 and 10, this portion will be 15 percent, while Grades 11 and 12 will see it reduced to 10 percent. Under these guidelines, students who accumulate more than two unexcused absences will not be eligible to receive the full percentage contribution from attendance and participation. Excused absences typically cover situations such as illness or religious holidays, and parents can still request excusals for specific events, such as weekend hockey tournaments starting on Fridays. However, Calandra made it clear that such exceptions should not become routine.
The minister cited concerns about declining attendance rates in Ontario high schools, stating that they rank among the lowest in the country. He expressed the need for immediate action to address this issue, emphasizing that consistent school attendance is crucial for student success. During a recent public appearance, Calandra reiterated his stance, advising parents to prioritize their child’s education over extracurricular activities. He also mentioned that the ministry would monitor the impact of these policies over the next year and consider further adjustments if necessary.
Calandra acknowledged the challenges faced by high-level athletes, particularly those involved in competitive sports. He noted that accommodations would be made for those in intensive training programs. Nevertheless, he urged sports organizations to recognize the importance of education and ensure that athletic commitments do not overshadow academic responsibilities. His comments were directed not only at parents but also at sports groups, including the Ontario Hockey League, which had previously raised concerns about the implications of the new attendance rules on student-athletes.
The education minister’s remarks come as part of a larger initiative aimed at improving educational outcomes across the province. While the focus on attendance is central to this effort, other aspects of the proposed reforms include discussions around potential restrictions on social media usage by students. These measures are intended to create a more focused learning environment and reduce distractions that could affect student performance and engagement.
Reactions to Calandra’s statements have been mixed. Some educators and school administrators support the move, believing that stricter attendance requirements will encourage better habits among students. Others, however, worry that the policy might place undue pressure on families, especially those whose children participate in demanding athletic schedules. Parents of student-athletes have expressed concern about balancing academic and sporting commitments, though many acknowledge the need for improved attendance rates.
Looking ahead, the Ministry of Education plans to evaluate the effectiveness of the new attendance policy after its implementation. If initial results indicate that the policy is not achieving its goals, further modifications may be considered. Meanwhile, ongoing dialogue between the government, educators, and sports organizations will be essential to finding a balance between academic priorities and the needs of student-athletes. As the new school year approaches, all stakeholders are being asked to remain flexible and open to collaboration in ensuring that students receive both quality education and opportunities to excel in their chosen fields.
3 reports
The Globe and MailIndependent🔒CenterFactual 95Objective 853 days agoOntario's Ministry of Education has introduced new attendance policies that will impact high school grading starting in September 2025. Under the policy, attendance and participation will account for 15% of final marks for Grades 9 and 10, and 10% for Grades 11 and 12. Students who miss school without parental permission will face grade penalties, but those with legitimate reasons such as sports events, extracurricular activities, or family trips will not be penalized if parents notify the school. Education Minister Paul Calandra emphasized that the policy targets chronic absenteeism, which remains a significant issue in Ontario, with only a minority of students meeting the 90% attendance benchmark. He stressed that the policy does not restrict parental decision-making but aims to improve classroom continuity and ensure student engagement.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the policy as a balanced measure aimed at improving attendance without unfairly punishing students for legitimate absences. While the policy addresses a politically charged issue (attendance rates), the framing appears neutral, quoting the minister directly without overtly favor
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 85): Very factual, accurately reflecting the minister's clarification that students can miss class for sports with parental permission. Objectivity is strong, presenting both sides of the policy debate without bias. The article clearly states the policy details and addresses parent concerns without emoti
Global NewsIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 703 days agoOntario's Education Minister Paul Calandra initially advised parents to prioritize school attendance over extracurricular activities like sports, emphasizing the importance of education. However, his office later clarified that students could still miss class for sports, music, or other educational activities under the new absenteeism policy. The policy introduces attendance and participation as a portion of final grades—15% for Grades 9 and 10, and 10% for Grades 11 and 12. Critics, including opposition MPs, argued that Calandra's initial remarks showed a lack of understanding of education and that the policy did not sufficiently accommodate students engaged in non-school-related activities.
Bias read (Center): The article presents both the minister's initial stance and the subsequent clarification, along with criticism from opposition figures. It does not exhibit strong bias toward one side, offering multiple perspectives without overtly favoring any particular viewpoint.
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 70): Factual accuracy is good, aligning with the cross-source consensus that students can miss class for sports with parental approval. However, the article presents the minister's initial statements as 'clarifying' which may imply a shift in position, potentially misleading readers. Objectivity is somew
Global NewsIndependentCenterFactual 80Objective 655 days ago Ontario education minister urges parents not to pull kids from school for sportsOntario Education Minister Paul Calandra announced new attendance policies starting in the upcoming school year, which will count attendance and participation as 10 to 15 percent of final grades, depending on the grade level. He urged parents not to excuse students from school for extracurricular activities like sports tournaments, citing concerns over low attendance rates in Ontario high schools. While excused absences for illness or religious holidays are permitted, Calandra emphasized that parents should prioritize education over sports commitments. He noted exceptions for high-level athletes but stressed that education remains the main focus. The policy aims to improve student engagement and attendance.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the policy as a necessary measure to address declining attendance rates without overtly criticizing or praising the decision. It includes quotes from the minister and mentions potential accommodations for high-level athletes, suggesting a balanced approach. There is no clear sl抗
Why these scores (Factual 80 · Objective 65): Factual content is accurate but presented with a clear bias towards the minister's urging parents not to remove children from school. The article emphasizes the negative impact of absenteeism and suggests that excused absences for sports are not ideal, which may influence reader perception. Objectiv
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