Parents, teachers protest bill that could bring back police officers in schools

A group of concerned parents and teachers braved the rain outside the Ontario legislature to voice their opposition to Bill 33, the Supporting Children and Students Act, 2025. This bill would mandate the implementation of School Resource Officer programs (SRO) in public schools across the province, starting next school year. The legislation, which also grants the education ministry increased authority to place school boards under supervision, recently passed its second reading.

The Toronto District School Board (TDSB) terminated its SRO program in 2017 due to reports of students feeling uncomfortable and intimidated by the presence of uniformed police officers in schools. When contacted for a statement regarding the bill, the TDSB declined to comment. Similarly, the Ontario education ministry did not respond to inquiries from CBC News.

Speaking at the protest, Robyn Maynard, a parent and assistant professor at the University of Toronto, expressed concerns about the negative impact of police presence in schools. Maynard cited studies showing that School Resource Officer programs disproportionately target Black and Indigenous students, leading to their criminalization for minor infractions. Since the removal of SROs from Toronto schools, Maynard noted a decrease in arrests, particularly among young Black individuals.

Maynard emphasized the importance of safeguarding the well-being of all students, especially those from marginalized communities, by keeping police out of educational environments. She argued that the proposed legislation would jeopardize the progress made in protecting vulnerable students from unnecessary police intervention.

Sabreina Dahab, a trustee for the Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board, echoed Maynard’s sentiments, denouncing the bill as a means of exerting control and militarizing schools rather than ensuring safety. Dahab advocated for an education system rooted in care, equity, and dignity, free from armed police presence.

In response to the opposition, Toronto police clarified that there are currently no active School Resource Officer programs in the city. However, they emphasized that any reintroduction of such programs would necessitate a comprehensive review to assess the needs and resources involved.

Supporters of the legislation, including Clayton Campbell, president of the Toronto Police Association, argued that School Resource Officer programs enhance safety and foster positive community engagement. Campbell highlighted the multifaceted roles played by officers in schools, from anti-bullying initiatives to tutoring and community outreach.

Contrary to proponents’ claims, Alex Da Costa, a professor at the University of Alberta, cautioned against the potential negative consequences of policing in schools. Drawing on research that questions the efficacy of SRO programs, Da Costa warned that increased police presence could lead to harsher disciplinary measures and push students further away from the educational system.

As the debate over Bill 33 continues, stakeholders on both sides offer contrasting perspectives on the role of police in schools. While some advocate for enhanced safety measures, others emphasize the need for a supportive and inclusive educational environment that prioritizes the well-being of all students.