Parents and children gathered outside Toronto schools on Thursday, May 21, 2026, to protest a legal challenge they fear will lead to the closure of schools and the repurposing of educational lands for residential development. The demonstration, which included a rally at Dewson Street Public School, highlighted growing community anxiety over the future of local green spaces and public infrastructure.
The Roots of the Dispute
The tension stems from a City of Toronto decision from last year that permitted housing developments of up to 14 storeys along major avenues, including on sites currently occupied by schools. Although the city eventually exempted school lands from this policy, the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) and the Toronto Catholic District School Board are challenging that decision at the Ontario Land Tribunal.
TDSB spokesperson Ryan Bird stated that the board’s appeal is intended to “safeguard the value of (TDSB’s) investments for the future benefit of students.” The boards argue that the city’s decision arbitrarily devalues school properties and could negatively impact future funding, as revenues from the sale of surplus properties are typically reserved for school renewals and capital improvements.
Concerns Over Community Impact
For parents like Maria Judas, the issue extends beyond balance sheets to the preservation of community hubs. “What we have is about community spaces, green spaces, parks, playgrounds, and school lands. School lands should be off the table,” Judas said. Other community members, such as Andrew Waters, expressed concerns about the long-term impact on local families, questioning where students would attend school and where residents would access green space if school sites were repurposed.
Emma Testani, a spokesperson for Ontario Education Minister Paul Calandra, confirmed that the provincial government supports the boards’ decision to appeal. Testani noted that while provincially appointed supervisors are currently examining underused schools, there are many procedural steps required before any site could be declared surplus.
Looking Ahead
The legal process is set to move forward on May 25, when a pre-hearing is scheduled at the Ontario Land Tribunal to establish the parameters for the appeal. While the school boards maintain that no operating schools are currently being considered for sale, the outcome of this tribunal process could influence how school properties are managed and valued within the city’s broader development framework for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are parents protesting at schools like Dewson Street Public School?
Parents are protesting against a legal challenge brought by school boards to the Ontario Land Tribunal, which they fear will eventually lead to the sale of school lands for housing developments.
What is the position of the school boards regarding the city’s development policy?
The TDSB and Toronto Catholic District School Board argue that the city’s decision to exempt school lands from development potential devalues their property assets, which they rely on to fund school facility renewals and capital improvements.
What happens next in the legal process?
A pre-hearing to establish the parameters for the boards’ appeal at the Ontario Land Tribunal is scheduled for May 25.
How should a growing city balance the need for new housing with the protection of existing public green spaces?
