FCSS-FESC Statement Regarding Ontario Student Transportation Eligibility Changes

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TORONTO, ON – On February 2, 2024, the Ontario Ministry of Education announced changes to transportation funding eligibility, establishing a minimum distance between a student’s home and their school to be eligible for funding. For some school boards, the minimum distance eligibility for students JK - 3 and grades 9 - 12 has doubled. Prior to this announcement, school boards were provided funding upfront and were given the flexibility to decide on their own policies.

Walking 800 metres along a safe route may feel plausible in the spring/fall months but becomes significantly more challenging in the winter or inclement weather conditions. 

“This change will inevitably encourage more parents to drive to school, increasing congestion and the likelihood of pedestrian/cyclist injuries in school drop-off zones,” said FCSS-FESC Executive Director Daniel Zhang. 

We urge the government to consider reversing this change and directly confront the root issue by increasing funding to address the current shortage of school bus drivers.

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Founded in 2012, the Federation of Canadian Secondary Students / Fédération des élèves du secondaire au Canada (FCSS-FESC) is an entirely non-partisan youth-led charity that strives to advocate for students in secondary schools and CÉGEPs across Canada.

Media Contact:
Frank Li, Chief Communications Officer
frank.li@fcss-fesc.ca / +1 (289) 408-8600 ext. 104