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With the issue of gender identity in schools making headlines across the Canadian media landscape, the Ontario Association of Parents In Catholic Education (OAPCE), is heartened to see political leaders championing the cause of safeguarding parental voice and authority. Ontario Premier Doug Ford, in particular, has joined the debate, echoing the sentiments of New Brunswick and Saskatchewan Premiers Blaine Higgs and Scott Moe, all of whom support parental rights when it comes to being informed about their child’s decision to change their identifying pronoun. Parents are the primary caregivers in their children’s lives and schools are entrusted with their care, they do not replace parents or assume their role. RELATED ARTICLE: Politicians Affirm Parental Rights on Pronouns Read Article These statements align with the views of Ontario Education Minister Stephen Lecce, who remarked on the importance of parental engagement in a child’s life. Lecce emphasized, “I think we understand though that parents must be fully involved and fully aware of what’s happening in the life of their children. I mean, often there are health implications, and I think we have to respect the rights of parents and recognize that these can be life-changing decisions, and I think parents want to be involved so that they can support their kids. And I think that’s a really important principle that we must uphold.” Joe Perri, Co-Executive Director of the Ontario Association of Parents In Catholic Education (OAPCE), stands in agreement with these statements, he highlighted OAPCE’s mission, which is to foster a partnership between parents and schools, empowering parents to actively participate in their children’s education and ensuring they have a meaningful voice in the decision-making processes. According to Perri, “Any changes or decisions regarding their child’s gender identity or any other non-curricular items are a family matter.” RELATED ARTICLE: THE POWER OF PARENT LEADERSHIP  Read More Gender identity and other related topics have ignited intense debates among various stakeholder groups. Discussions range from gender pronouns to whether Catholic schools should raise the Pride flag in June, sparking what can be described as an ongoing cultural battle. To provide context and insight into Canadian perspectives, the Angus Reid Institute conducted a poll, shedding light on public sentiment regarding parental involvement in decisions related to their child’s gender identity. The study revealed that only 14 percent of respondents believe parents should neither be informed nor have consent. In contrast, 43 percent advocate for parents being informed and granting consent, while 35 percent support parents being informed if their child chooses a different identification. In the midst of these debates, the voice of the Archdiocese of Toronto, in partnership with several Catholic school boards, has been notable. Neil MacCarthy, the director of public relations and communications for the Archdiocese, emphasized the crucial partnership between parish, home, and school in the formation of young people. Recognizing that parents are the primary educators of their children, the Archdiocese underscores the importance of infusing Catholic teaching in all aspects of education. Joe Perri, on behalf of OAPCE, made a firm commitment to advocate for parental rights and accountability in Catholic schools. He stated, “We will always be a voice of parents in Catholic schools, as we are mandated in the Education Act to engage, advocate and enhance the gift of Catholic education.” One parent, M. Pierucci, expressed her support for the stance taken by OAPCE and political leaders, saying, “As a parent, I believe it’s the parents right to be informed when it comes to my child’s education, especially sensitive topics such as gender ideology. The best people to provide the support and nurturing our children need are their parents.” In conclusion, the interviews and articles with OAPCE and the insights from political leaders and educators underscore the significance of parental rights and involvement in Canadian education, particularly in matters related to gender identity. It reflects an ongoing dialogue about the balance between parental authority, school policies, and the well-being of students, with a focus on upholding the values and teachings that are integral to Catholic education in Ontario.

As another school year begins, the Ontario Association of Parents in Catholic Education (OAPCE) would like to extend a warm welcome to all parents, guardians, and students. We hope that you have had a restful and rejuvenating summer break and are ready to embark on a successful year of learning and growth. As the voice of parents and guardians of children enrolled in the publicly funded English Catholic System of Education in Ontario, OAPCE is here to support and advocate for you. We believe that parents play a crucial role in the education of their children, and we encourage you to get involved and be a part of your child’s educational journey. “As we begin a new school year, let us hold onto hope and prioritize the health and well-being of our children. Together, with faith as our guide, we can navigate any challenges that come our way and ensure a bright future for our children.” A. Crudo-Perri and J. Perri, Co-Executive Directors, OAPCE. One of the ways you can get involved is by becoming an OAPCE representative. As per Section 612 of the Education Act, every local parent school council whose board pays membership is required to have an OAPCE representative who acts as a link between the school council and the provincial association. This position provides an opportunity for you to engage with other parents, share your views and concerns, and play a part in shaping the future of Catholic education in Ontario. Consider becoming a representative and making a difference in your child’s school community. As we start a new academic year, here are some helpful tips for parents: Establish open lines of communication with your child’s teacher. Regularly check in on their progress and discuss any concerns or questions you may have. Create a designated study space at home where your child can focus and concentrate on their schoolwork. Minimize distractions and provide a quiet and organized environment. Encourage healthy habits, such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and a consistent sleep schedule. These habits can greatly impact your child’s ability to stay focused and engaged in their learning. Stay informed about your child’s curriculum and assignments. Attend school events, parent-teacher meetings, and stay updated on any communication from the school. Being actively involved in your child’s education shows them that you value and support their learning journey. Foster a love for learning and encourage your child to explore their interests. Provide opportunities for them to engage in extracurricular activities and discover new passions. Moreover, here are some tips you can share with your children to help them make the most of the school year: Set goals for the year and break them down into smaller achievable tasks. By setting goals, your child can stay motivated and focused on their objectives. Develop good study habits, such as creating a study schedule, taking breaks, and reviewing material regularly. Be organized by keeping track of assignments, due dates, and important school events. Use a planner or digital tools to stay on top of your responsibilities. Seek help when needed. Encourage your child to reach out to their teachers or classmates if they are struggling with a particular subject or concept. Remind them that asking for help is a sign of strength and a way to grow. T. ake care of their well-being by practicing self-care activities such as exercise, spending time with family and friends, and engaging in hobbies they enjoy. As we embark on a new school year, let us remember the importance of working together as a community to support our children’s education. OAPCE is here to serve as your voice and advocate for the continuation and preservation of publicly funded Catholic education in Ontario. In 2024 we will be celebrating our 85th Anniversary and we invite you to join us in our mission to Engage, Advocate, and Enhance the Catholic education system. Whether it’s becoming an OAPCE representative, attending our annual conference, or simply staying informed and involved in your child’s education, your contribution matters. Together, let’s make this school year a memorable and successful one for our children. Welcome back, and may God bless you and your families. Stay tuned for many new initiatives coming from OAPCE including a fresh new logo, website and many other new ideas from us! Here’s to the 2023/24 school year! Sincerely, The Ontario Association of Parents in Catholic Education (OAPCE)