The TDSB Budget Committee planning to impose a 66% fee increase for seniors and a 44% increase for full fee payers (an equivalent $154 increase for the most expensive course) by Fall 2025, despite reporting strong registration numbers and considerable waitlists.

• January 2025 - TDSB General Interest and Senior’s Daytime Programming Report, includes fee increase chart 
• Friends of Learn4Life Advocacy Report

I am just one among many who have found joy, enrichment, and a sense of community in the Learn4Life programs offered by the Toronto District School Board (TDSB). Since discovering these programs in 2023, I've been privileged to sit in classes alongside people from a staggering array of backgrounds – from millennials to individuals in their 70s, across different cultures. These programs aren't just about learning; they're about fostering community. 

Sadly, the Learn4Life program is under threat. In 2024, the TDSB attempted to close the program outright but through the outpouring of support, the decision was delayed and able to continue for the 2024-2025 year. Despite the TDSB reporting strong registration numbers and considerable waitlists in 2025, plans are underway to impose a 66% fee increase for seniors and a 44% increase for full fee payers (an equivalent $154 increase for the most expensive course). These abrupt increases pose a significant barrier to entry for many who currently benefit from these classes, particularly those on tighter budgets. 

To maintain the spirit of inclusivity and accessibility that these programs boast, we're calling on the TDSB to reconsider these planned fee increases. We ask for transparency on costs that supposedly justify such steep hikes and seek thoughtful, affordable alternatives. By doing so, the board can ensure these beloved programs remain accessible to the diverse, vibrant group of learners they currently serve.

We urge you to sign this petition so that we can stand against pricing out the very individuals that make Learn4Life programs so rich and rewarding.

In support of Friends of Learn4Life, grassroots advocacy group.

References: 

1. Friends of Learn 4 Life Advocacy Report
2. January 2024 - TDSB General Interest and Senior’s Daytime Programming Report, includes fee increase chart 
3. January 2025 - Auditor General Report (Recommendation 9) 
4. Policy P019 - Continuing Education 
5. TDSB to implement ‘massive’ 45% fee increase for adult education courses
6. City of Toronto programs - Most courses are offered outside of the downtown core

History of Previous Attempts of Closing Learn4Life Program

1. 2024 Petition - Halt the Closure of Learn4Life Program
2. CBC | TDSB considering cuts to programming amid $20M deficit and many trustees are concerned
3. 2019 Petition - Urge TDSB Trustees to Retain the Learn 4 Life Programs