Fairview—Clayton Park residents,
Time flies like an arrow – fruit flies like a banana…
Here we are once again at the end of another summer, with back to school just around the corner. As your MLA and the Shadow Critic for Education, I am committed to advocating for the best possible education for our children. I want to address some of the pressing challenges we face.
Fairview—Clayton Park has experienced rapid population growth in recent years, with continued growth on the horizon, straining our school’s resources and infrastructure. Despite the surge in enrollment of 629 students over the last seven years, the government has yet to commit to a plan to address the resulting challenges and accommodate the increased number of students.
One of the critical issues we face in Fairview Clayton Park is overcrowded classrooms. While portable classrooms have been added to alleviate the strain, it’s essential to acknowledge that these temporary solutions cannot overshadow the larger concern of lack of planning around the increased population growth in our community. I will continue pressuring the education minister for real solutions and a commitment to a new school in Fairview Clayton Park.
The beginning of the school year also reminds us of the financial burdens that many families face in providing the necessary school supplies for their children.
I am excited to partner with the Fairview Food Pantry to collect school supply donations to ensure all students start the year on equal footing.
You can drop off your donation to my office at 3845 Joseph Howe Drive, directly to the 3 Fairview Food Pantry or to MLA Rafah DiCostanzo or MLA Ali Duali’s offices until September 7th. Once all donations are collected, the Schools Plus team will distribute the supplies to families in need.
Wishing you all a productive and inspiring school year ahead.
Patricia
MLA for Fairview—Clayton Park