FCSS-FESC Statement on Appointment of TDSB Field Trip Reviewer

TORONTO, ON — Following an inappropriate, politically charged field trip that saw fifteen Toronto District School Board (TDSB) schools attend a geopolitical protest, the Ontario government has appointed a reviewer to investigate the incident. The field trip was originally well-intentioned, supporting the Grassy Narrows First Nations affected by mercury poisoning. However, students were later seen participating in a protest that was out of the scope of the field trip’s original description. 

Students should never be used as a vehicle for staff and administration to express their political activism. We expect the TDSB to strengthen its oversight and ensure that educational field trips are focused on educational objectives. We are supportive of the Ontario government’s appointment of a reviewer and its commitment to keeping school boards accountable.

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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: Hayden Lai, Chief Communications Officer

hayden.lai@fcss-fesc.ca  / +1 (289) 408-8600 ext. 104