GECDSB hears calls to protect equity, special education funding in budget consultations

Greater Essex County District School Board Building on Park Street in Windsor (AM800 file photo)

The Greater Essex County District School Board is hearing calls to safeguard equity and special education programs as it gathers public input on its 2026-27 budget.

The board held its second public consultation Tuesday, seeking feedback on spending priorities as it works to address a significant deficit within its Ministry of Education funding.

Gemma Grey-Hall, a member of the board’s Dismantling Anti-Black Racism Committee, urged trustees to avoid cutting supports for Black students, racialized learners and children with special needs.

“As you deliberate about what to reduce or eliminate, I urge this board not to cut programs that directly support Black students, racialized learners and children with special needs,” Grey-Hall said. “Doing so would only undermine years of hard-fought progress.”

Grey-Hall also warned of potential financial, legal and reputational risks if equity-related supports are reduced.

“What risks — financial, legal and reputational — is the board prepared to absorb by approving a budget that ignores the realities of a diverse community?” she said, adding cuts could lead to grievances, human rights complaints or litigation.

Kaitlyn Ellsworth, another member of the committee, said equity commitments require sustained funding.

“Equity without investment is performative,” Ellsworth said. “You cannot claim to prioritize student achievement and well-being … while failing to materially invest in the students who continue to experience some of the deepest inequities within this system.”

The board’s finance and facility services standing committee is scheduled to meet June 9, with a draft budget expected to go to trustees for approval June 16.