A longstanding language program at St. Charles Catholic School is facing significant changes as the Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB) announces the relocation of the International Languages Elementary Italian program. Starting in September 2026, the program will be removed from the regular school day and instead transition to a Saturday program, leading to concerns among families regarding access and the potential impact on their children’s education.
A letter to parents confirmed the shift, noting that the Saturday program will be managed by the TCDSB. While some parents express appreciation that the opportunity to learn Italian continues, there is notable unease regarding the logistics of weekend learning. “At this point, I do feel that it’s something based on this community,” one concerned parent stated. However, they also acknowledged the challenges that weekend programs may present for families with busy schedules.
The TCDSB has emphasized that this change is part of a broader strategy aimed at concentrating resources on core academic skills, while still providing opportunities for students to learn languages outside of the traditional classroom setting. This move comes alongside other adjustments, including modifications to bell times at certain schools to improve transportation efficiency and the phasing out of legacy literacy programs like Fifth Block in favor of a new early reading model.
The board's supervisor highlighted that these decisions are largely influenced by a need to address a projected deficit of approximately $39 million. Many families are anxious about how these changes will affect their children’s education and cultural identity. One parent articulated their concern, stating, “I think that’s really unfortunate because languages are so important to culture and to maintaining cultural identity.” They further elaborated on the time constraints parents face, making integration of language learning into daily life increasingly difficult.
Trustee Maria Rizzo voiced her strong opposition to the changes, expressing her frustration toward the Ford government and Education Minister Paul Calandra. “I’m disgusted; I’m totally disgusted. Shame on the Ford government, shame on (Education Minister) Paul Calandra,” she remarked, criticizing the lack of consultation with parents and the unilateral nature of the cuts made to the program.
Additionally, the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), representing workers within the education sector, warned that the cuts would result in the loss of 77 dedicated language instructors’ positions. The union decried the decision, stating that the elimination of these instructors will have lasting repercussions not just for the workers but also for the students and families who rely on the language program as a vital educational and cultural resource.
The TCDSB was taken over by the Ford government in June 2022, alongside three other provincial school boards, due to allegations of “mismanagement.” The education minister indicated that the board had tripled its in-year deficit compared to the previous year. In an official statement, the TCDSB acknowledged the board's financial challenges and underscored that the budget decisions will affect approximately one in four elementary schools, seeking to allocate resources more effectively towards in-class learning while ensuring adherence to ministry funding and educational standards.
Lastly, the board mentioned that further information regarding the Saturday language program will be made available on its website, encouraging families to share their thoughts as these changes are implemented. The community remains hopeful that the new format will not hinder students’ linguistic opportunities and cultural connections.
