Take Your MPP to School Week

This week is Take Your MPP to School Week, coordinated by the Ontario Public School Boards’ Association (OPSBA) from May 19 to 22. For the first time, OPC is supporting and promoting this initiative, which invites local MPPs to visit public schools and learn more about the programs, students and staff in their communities. If your school is participating, we encourage you to tag OPSBA and OPC on social media and use #MPPSchoolWeek so we can share your stories as well.

Preparing for 2027 Negotiations

Although formal negotiations are not expected to begin for at least another year, preparations are already underway. Under the current timeline, notice to bargain may be given as early as June 1, 2027 and we are beginning to gather Member input, identify key issues and conduct research to support our bargaining priorities.

We have created a dedicated email address: negotiations2027@principals.ca. We invite Members to share concerns, experiences and ideas for the upcoming negotiations. This email account is intended only for bargaining-related input. Please do not send questions, as timely responses cannot be guaranteed. Early preparation and meaningful Member input will help strengthen our approach to the upcoming negotiations.

International STEM Leadership Opportunity 2026

We are seeking expressions of interest from school leaders in high-performing STEM schools or with strong STEM programs for an international leadership seminar hosted by Shanghai Normal University from October 24 to 26.

The seminar includes professional learning, networking and school visits with education leaders worldwide. One Canadian school leader will be selected through the OPC, with flights, accommodations and ground expenses covered by Shanghai Normal University.

The OPC assumes no responsibility for risks, liability or logistics related to this opportunity. Please confirm participation aligns with board policies before expressing interest.

Express interest to rdavis@principals.ca by May 22 at 1:00 p.m. ET. A draw will be held if there are multiple submissions.

Award for Student Leadership Plaques

A reminder to Members that the small plaques for the Principal’s Award for Student Leadership will not be sent out to schools this spring. Schools wishing to have a plaque prepared for a recipient can do so by downloading the digital certificate. This can be printed with the student’s name for presentation.

Quote to Ponder

“The ability to learn is the most important quality a leader can have.” – Sheryl Sandberg

Media

Queen's Park Update

At Queen’s Park last week, education discussions during Question Period focused on special education supports, educational assistant shortages and education funding following the release of the Ontario Auditor General’s report on special education. Discussions also included ministry oversight and the government’s role in improving outcomes for students with special education needs.