Calandra's Memo: Grad Ceremonies to Stay Neutral

0:00It's March 24, I'm Cory with the story, and this is Canada News today. Local news powered by AI. Ontario's Education Minister Paul Kalandra has sent a memo to school boards and educators directing them to keep graduation ceremonies strictly focused on celebrating student achievements. He made it clear that these events should avoid any political opinions or divisive topics to protect student well-being. The memo stresses that school boards must hold staff to the same standards as students and failure to comply could lead to action under the education. Act. Kalandra promised to use every available tool to prioritize kids above all else. This guidance comes after last year, when an Ottawa High School valedictorian was asked not to attend her own graduation for including pro-Palestinian. Comments in her speech. That incident highlighted tensions around free expression at these events. It also follows a new provincial law that boosts the minister's authority over school boards.

1:00Right now, A boards remain under direct provincial supervision. With graduation season approaching, officials are watching closely to ensure these ceremonies stay neutral and centered on the graduate's big moment.