The Ontario government says it is investing a record $30.3 billion in education funding this year as part of its plan to prepare students for future careers and strengthen accountability in the school system.
The funding will support two million students returning to class next week and includes a back-to-basics focus on practical skills in reading, writing and math. The province is also opening 41 new or expanded schools this fall to provide modern learning environments.
“Our goal is clear: To provide students with the opportunity to succeed and grow, and ensure teachers have the resources and environment they need to inspire learning and help students thrive,” Education Minister Paul Calandra said in a statement. “We will continue to invest in safe, modern schools while strengthening accountability and transparency across Ontario’s education system to ensure that every dollar invested is preparing students with practical skills for good-paying, stable careers.”
The government said 25 new schools and 16 school additions will open this fall, creating more than 17,700 student spaces and 1,650 licensed child care spaces. The projects represent an infrastructure investment of more than $889 million, part of a $23-billion, 10-year plan to build, renew and improve schools.
The province has also introduced the Supporting Children and Students Act, 2025, which, if passed, would give the government greater oversight of public school boards. Officials say the legislation is aimed at improving financial accountability and ensuring funding is directed toward student achievement, special education and mental health services.
Since 2018, Ontario has supported about 300 school-related projects, including child care centres, with more than 100 now under construction. The government said it has not hesitated to intervene when school boards fail to meet responsibilities, noting supervisors have been appointed at five boards over issues such as deficits, depleted reserves and mismanagement.
