Some good news! Our collective voices are making a difference. The Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) released a revised proposal last week that addresses some concerns, but several critical issues remain unresolved.

What's changed

• New K-3 and 4-8 grade configurations have been removed
• Number of Specialized Program Classes (SPCs) being cut reduced from 39 to 26
• Extended timeline due to public pressure:
  Additional survey opportunity
  Delegation night added - April 22, new topics only
  Vote postponed to May 13

What still needs to be addressed

• Alternative schools still being phased out
• 26 SPCs still slated for elimination
• Approximately 1,500 students still facing forced school changes (the OCDSB's uncertainty about this number is concerning)
• New "grandparenting exception process" has been suggested, but:
  Only addresses sibling situations and multiple transitions
  No guarantees for approval
  The application process may be a barrier for marginalized groups
  No phased implementation or generalized grandparenting offered

Our Call to Action - UPDATED

In light of these developments, we are shifting the focus of our petition. Rather than simply asking trustees to vote "no" on the proposal, we are now calling for a proper Pupil Accommodation Review (PAR) for Elementary Program Review-related changes.

The image for this update provides an overview of what is required in a PAR process and how the OCDSB is currently failing to meet these standards. There is also an infographic to help you understand the EPR changes and explain the issues to others. Trustees should not be asked to approve a plan with such lasting consequences when so much critical information remains missing or unclear.

Let's keep the pressure on. Our children's education is too important to rush through flawed proposals.