Parents at Bowmore Road Junior and Senior School in Toronto’s east end are demanding answers and the reinstatement of teachers following a series of recent staff departures. The situation has left approximately 300 students in Grades 7 and 8 impacted, according to concerned parents.
Turbulent Times at Bowmore Road School
The unrest began earlier this school year with the abrupt end to a shared teaching model that had been in place for over 20 years. This model involved teachers rotating through courses, but was replaced with a system requiring teachers to cover a wider range of subjects, reportedly disrupting extracurricular activities. Following an “unsatisfactory” meeting with parents on January 14 regarding safety, violence, and bullying, the principal and two teachers were terminated. Last Thursday, the vice-principal was also let go, and eight teachers were suspended.
Jenn Engels, a parent of a Grade 7 French Immersion student at the school, described the situation as “tumultuous” and “demoralizing,” emphasizing the school’s strong sense of community. “I have felt over and over they have tried to sneak something past us,” Engels stated.
TDSB Response and Parent Concerns
The Toronto District School Board (TDSB) released a statement acknowledging parents’ concerns and committing to addressing them, including providing additional support to the school. However, the board stated it is limited in what it can share regarding personnel matters due to privacy and legal considerations. Letters were sent to families indicating the absent teachers will be returning between February 4 and 10, with occasional teachers filling in, but the reasons for the absences were not specified.
The TDSB has engaged the Regional Internal Audit Team to review safety, rules, and procedures at Bowmore. Investments in school cameras and accessibility improvements are also planned, with a new principal expected to be in place by February 17.
Planned Demonstrations
Parents and teachers are organizing rallies to voice their concerns. The Elementary Teachers of Ontario is planning a rally outside the TDSB’s North York headquarters on Tuesday at 4:30 p.m., and Bowmore families and supporters will gather in front of the school on Wednesday.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific reasons were given for the staff changes?
The TDSB has not publicly provided specific reasons for the terminations or suspensions, citing privacy and legal considerations.
How many students are affected by the teacher absences?
Approximately 300 students in Grades 7 and 8 at Bowmore Road Junior and Senior School have been impacted by the absent teachers, according to parent Jenn Engels.
What actions are parents taking to address their concerns?
Parents are demanding the reinstatement of the teachers, seeking leadership changes at the superintendent level, and organizing rallies to raise awareness about the situation.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the TDSB will address the concerns of parents and staff, and what the long-term impact will be on the Bowmore Road school community.
