KnowYourVote Toronto

trustee-tcdsb

Robert Pella

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

As a Catholic, I believe every student deserves the support they need to succeed. I will advocate for fair funding, classroom resources, manageable class sizes, and strong support for teachers and EA's so no student is overlooked.

trustee-tcdsb

Jennifer Di Francesco

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

As a mother and longtime parent advocate, I have seen what happens when classrooms lack enough teachers, EAs and professional supports: students struggle, staff burn out and families feel unheard. As Trustee, I would challenge budgets and staffing decisions, demand transparent reporting and ensure resources reach the classrooms with the greatest needs. My priorities would be manageable class sizes and needs based staffing, especially for students requiring additional support.

trustee-tcdsb

Stephanie Loor Ruiz

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

I will continue to support smaller class sizes and strong staffing so every child has the academic opportunities they deserve. As trustee, I would work closely with school communities to ensure their concerns are heard and reflected in decisions affecting students, staff, and families. Prioritizing adequate staffing and manageable class sizes is essential to helping all learners succeed.

trustee-tcdsb

Rosanna Araujo

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

As Parent Council Chair, I've heard firsthand how staffing shortages and large class sizes affect students, educators, and families. As Trustee, I would advocate for adequate teacher and EA staffing, manageable class sizes, and equitable resource allocation, especially for students requiring additional support. I would prioritize listening to parents and educators, ensuring transparency in staffing decisions, and advocating for increased funding. Every student deserves the attention and support needed to thrive and succeed.

trustee-tcdsb

Teresa Colonna

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

As a trustee, I would advocate for staffing and class sizes that reflect students’ needs. Expecting a teacher to support 30 students, including children with varied IEPs and significant needs, without adequate help is unfair to everyone. My priorities would be more EA support, appropriate resources and thoughtful classroom planning. Inclusion must be supported so every child can participate meaningfully, teachers can teach effectively, and EAs have the support they need. I would listen to families and staff and press for funding where needed.

trustee-tcdsb

Paul Salvatori

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

As a School Board Trustee, but also as an educator, I take these concerns quite seriously. I believe students learn best when they regularly receive the attention they both deserve and are entitled to. That requires teachers and EAs alike not to be overburdened by having to oversee too many students. As Trustee, I would advocate for staffing levels and class sizes where students can receive one-to-one and/or small-group instruction. Staff and students alike should be able to learn and work without undue stress.

trustee-tcdsb

Anton Perera

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

Discuss with trustees from other wards how they manage staffing problems and class room sizes and come to a collective plan and bring this up with the provincial education minister advocating for more funding. Look into the possibility of bringing back teachers who have retired early or semi retired to volunteer or work on a part time basis until staffing shortages are resolved with permanent qualified teachers. Evaluate the director of education from time to time to check how efficient and effective he has been in managing operations

trustee-tcdsb

Nancy Crawford

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

Definitely, some classes are too large and Boards do not have enough Educational Support Workers to meet the needs of all students. As a Trustee I would advocate for increased staffing and, as these items are part of union/management negotiations, that they be resolved at the bargaining table as well.

trustee-tcdsb

Markus de Domenico

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

I have spoken out publicly that the government must reduce class sizes so that students and teachers can achieve excellence in learning the curriculum. The government must acknowledge that over subscribed classrooms do not fascilitate proper learning environments. In working with our Union partners, I will advocate for smaller class sizes

trustee-tcdsb

Sara Concordia

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

Teachers and EAs need the right support to meet the needs of every student. When classrooms are too large or do not have enough support, both students and staff are negatively affected. As trustee, I would listen to families and school staff, review staffing needs across Ward 2, and make sure resources are distributed fairly. A trustee cannot make these changes alone, but I would bring concerns forward, ask tough questions and hold the board accountable for putting students’ needs first.

trustee-tcdsb

Ida Li Preti

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

Students aren’t numbers on a spreadsheet. Staffing and class-size decisions should reflect what’s happening in classrooms and what families and educators say students need. I’ve prioritized special-education programs and worked to reduce psychoeducational-assessment wait times at the TCDSB. As trustee, I’ll continue pressing the Board to explain how staff are assigned, for the teachers and EAs students need, and advocate for provincial funding that supports inclusive schools, timely help and programs close to home.

trustee-tcdsb

Susel Munoz Plasencia

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

Students cannot receive the support they deserve when classrooms and support staff are stretched beyond capacity. I would make adequate staffing, manageable class sizes, and access to educational assistants a priority, particularly for students with special education needs. Trustees have a responsibility to listen to teachers, EAs, principals, parents, and students and bring those concerns to the Board.

trustee-tcdsb

Frank D'Amico

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

My role would be to make sure concerns about class sizes, teacher staffing and educational assistant support is appropriately addressed. I must emphasize that the trustees role is to listen to parents, understand needs, and advocate for appropriate resources, while understanding that trustees have no power to make individual staffing decisions.

trustee-tcdsb

Marissa Largo

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

As a Trustee, I would advocate for staffing and class-size decisions that put student learning, safety, and well-being first. Drawing on my as a former secondary teachers, I know what it is like to have growing classes and dwindling resources. I believe resources should be allocated equitably, recognizing that some schools require additional supports. My priorities would be adequate teacher and EA staffing and ensuring every student, especially those with diverse learning and support needs, has the opportunity to achieve student success.

trustee-tcdsb

Mary Cury Paul

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

As a trustee, I would review how staffing decisions are made and make sure the budget puts teachers and EAs where students need them most. Well-staffed classrooms let teachers use adaptive methods for every learning style. My priorities: protect teaching and EA positions, keep class sizes manageable, and direct support to students with the greatest needs. I would listen to families, teachers, and EAs, monitor outcomes, and bring their voices to the Board table.

trustee-tcdsb

David Le

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

I would advocate for our children's best interests and push back against the province's policy of cutting funds to our public school system. Underfunding classrooms, staffing cuts, and ballooning class sizes all harm our children's educational performance. Teachers' hands are already full and they are expected to do more with limited funds and resources. If elected, my two main priorities are to fight for class size caps and ensure the student-to-educator ratio allows each student to be seen and heard.

trustee-tcdsb

Jonathan Santos

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

Students learn best when educators have the support and resources to meet their needs. I would closely examine class sizes, staffing levels and the allocation of EAs across our schools, with particular attention to students with greater needs. I would use enrolment and student-needs data to guide decisions and advocate for responsible budgets that prioritize the classroom and the frontline supports students need to succeed.

trustee-tcdsb

Rosina Bonavota

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

My role in addressing concerns about staffing levels and class sizes would be to act as a strategic overseer, community advocate and responsible fiscal manager. Trustees set direction, advocate for resources, and ensure accountability, while daily operations and staffing are handled by the Director of Education and superintendent. My priorities are aligning resources with student needs, using data to identify staffing pressures, advocating for EA support, and holding administration accountable for outcomes.

trustee-tdsb

Matias de Dovitiis

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

We do not currently have the funding required to provide every student with an appropriate class size. I will continue to advocate for better funding from the Provincial Ontario government. We have seen a reduction per child of around $1400 per child, adjusted to inflation. We now see more split classes, with one teacher overseeing students in multiple grades, we see less access to individualized learning resources for students, particularly for special education and we see more students falling behind due to a lack of resources and staff.

trustee-tdsb

Marisa Sterling

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

I would advocate for the return of class size limits for Grades 4-8, a practice eliminated by the Ontario government last year. I would also advocate to halt the downloading of central TDSB staff work to local teachers, EAs and principals, allowing them to spend more time with students. I would prioritize increasing school level staffing and building existing staff capacity, using best practices and evidence-based approaches, to meet the needs of students. And I would support improved enrollment projections to bring more classroom stability.

trustee-tdsb

Karen Emerson

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

As a parent and advocate for education, I am extremely concerned that the Provincially-Appointed Supervisor has chosen to overturn decisions made about TDSB school class sizes set out by our democratically elected trustees in March 2025. These decisions about class sizes were evidence-informed and based on years of research and input from teachers and students. As a Trustee I will work with parents, teachers, and the community to ensure that decisions regarding students and teachers made by the Board are evidence informed.

trustee-tdsb

Azim Dewan

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

As a Trustee, I would advocate for smaller class sizes, to a maximum of 20 students per classroom. I believe smaller class sizes allow teachers to give more individual attention to students and create a better learning environment where every student has the opportunity to succeed.I would advocate for additional EA staffing where needed to ensure students receive proper guidance and support developing their skills. I would also work with parents,educators & school administrators to identify staffing needs and bring these concerns to the Board.

trustee-tdsb

Ahnaaf Hassan

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

Working with principals and teachers in model schools, I created a report advocating for smaller class sizes, presented to multiple superintendents. The recent cut of class caps introduces classes larger than they should be, forcing teachers to be overworked. My priorities as a Trustee would be advocating for more funding for resources to help students learn, and smaller class sizes for more 1-1 time with teachers, to give students the opportunity to better ask questions and receive personalized help.

trustee-tdsb

Md Sazibul Islam

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

As trustee, I would listen to families, educators and school staff, review local staffing data, and advocate for resources based on actual student needs. My priorities would include manageable class sizes, sufficient teachers and educational assistants, and timely support for students with special needs. I would push for transparent staffing decisions, responsible budgeting and stronger provincial funding so that every classroom has the support required for safe and effective learning.

trustee-tdsb

Jocelyne Poirier

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

Classrooms need appropriate staffing and resources to support effective teaching and learning. I would advocate for manageable class sizes, sufficient teachers and EAs, and safe working and learning conditions. Staffing decisions should reflect classroom complexity as well as enrolment. Drawing on my budgeting experience, I would question funding gaps, build an evidence-based case for provincial investment and press for transparent resource decisions. Families’ and educators’ experiences would help identify where action is needed.

trustee-tdsb

Glenn Kremp

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

This is a tough issue to tackle, some schools are at 110% capacity with no extra classrooms to thin out the class size School principals do a incredible job of trying to fit all the students enrolled into the school I would advocate the province for a higher budget to get more EA's or teachers into schools that are over capacity. Especially when the school-teacher allocation is given to principals in May and does not account for new students during the summer that have enrolled in the school, or even first day students that forgot to register

trustee-tdsb

Ravicha Ravinthiran

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

When classrooms are stretched, both students and educators feel the impact. I would listen to teachers, EAs and families to understand where the biggest gaps are and advocate for resources where they are needed most, especially for students who need additional support. I also believe staffing decisions should be transparent, with families understanding how and why resources are allocated. When funding or provincial decisions limit what the TDSB can do, trustees should be clear about those challenges and advocate for what our schools need.

trustee-tdsb

Curtis Jack

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

First and foremost, I would work to protect funding for special education needs and EA's to assist with chronic daily shortages, and potentially improve retention. I would work to cap outlier class sizes to ensure that intermediate and secondary classes don't balloon past reasonable sizes to fit the board-wide average. Finally, work toward minimizing fall re-organizing, by improving spring enrolment forecasting to reduce thrashing in class rooms and teacher assignment.

trustee-tdsb

Dameon Halstead

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

My priority would be ensuring every student has the teachers, EAs, resources, and support they need to succeed and reach their full potential. As a Trustee, I would listen to teachers, EAs, students, and families to understand where the greatest needs are and work with the Board to address them responsibly and in a timely manner. I would advocate for manageable class sizes, adequate EA support, and recognition of classroom complexity and individual needs. I would also advocate to the Province for the funding our schools need.

trustee-tdsb

Angus Grant

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

As trustee, I'll press the board and province for smaller classes, more teachers and EAs, and funding that puts students first. Students need time with teachers and support that prepares them for life beyond school. Teachers need manageable classes and time to teach every student well. I'll push for a review of central TDSB spending and explore revenue from surplus resources with no planned future use, reinvesting that money directly in schools. I'll keep families informed and advocate for properly staffed schools. Our kids deserve it.

trustee-tdsb

Abdul Azeem Mohammed

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

As a school-council member, I’ve listened directly to parents who worry when classrooms are stretched and students don’t receive the attention they need. One parent told me, “My child needs help, but the teacher simply doesn’t have enough time.” That stayed with me. As Trustee, I will be a strong voice for students, parents and educators & advocating for appropriate staffing, EA support, manageable class sizes and transparent decisions that put student needs first.

trustee-tdsb

Gary McBean

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

TDSB should make sure every school has enough teachers and educational assistants so students get the support they need. My role is to listen to families, understand where shortages are happening, and push the board to direct resources to the schools that need them most. My priorities would be reducing overcrowded classes, improving EA support for students with special needs, and making sure staffing decisions are fair and based on real community needs. I would also support clear reporting so parents can see how resources are being used.

trustee-tdsb

Darren Frake

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

Kids learn best when teachers have the time to help them one-on-one. Right now, crowded classrooms and a shortage of support staff hurt everyone. My priority will be pushing for more funding to hire and keep Educational Assistants (EAs), who give critical daily help to students with high needs. I will also fight to keep class sizes reasonable across all grades, making sure our tax dollars go straight into classroom support rather than administrative red tape.

trustee-tdsb

Anu Sriskandarajah

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

As your Trustee for the past eight years, I have consistently fought for optimal classroom conditions and front-line staffing. The last budget I fought to stop the removal of the TDSB's lower class size caps and strongly disagree with harmful cuts to Model Schools funding that directly impact class sizes. Moving forward, my priorities are securing increased educational-assistant (EA) allocations for special-needs students, defending responsible class-size caps, and ensuring stable, reliable resources for every school.

trustee-tdsb

Sherri Williams

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

As a mother of five who have all attended schools in this ward, I understand how important individual attention is to a child’s success. I would advocate for smaller classes, adequate teacher and EA staffing, and stronger special education support. My priorities would be listening to families and educators, transparent spending, and directing resources where students need them most.

trustee-tdsb

Aria Garcia

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

Public School Board Trustee should play the role of Principal who determine the Teacher and Education Assistant staffing levels of JK, SK, G1 to G8 for Junior and Grade 9 to G12 for Secondary and class sizes with at least 25 for all levels. My 1st priority would be to check all Elementary schools in addressing these concerns about lack of teachers and classrooms. Then, my 2nd priority would be the Secondary schools to check if their is a need to to add more classrooms and suggest to transfer them to other schools with less students.

trustee-tdsb

Marcia Wilson

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

Communities have a natural right to be concerned about these issues. Teachers and EA's are a network of people with specialized knowledge, if that resource is diminished then we are altogether, in Perverse Incentive territory,where,"when a reward or penalty is tied directly to a metric, people unwittingly change their behavior to maximize that specific target and this in turn destroys the ultimate purpose. As a Trustee,I would take the position that we should not pawn our human resources .My priority would be to get indifferent people on board

trustee-tdsb

Ketan Purohit

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

I recognize that class size and staffing levels can affect the classroom experience, but larger classes do not automatically mean poorer outcomes. As a Trustee, I would listen to teachers, EAs, parents and students to understand where support is most needed. With budget pressures facing school boards, I would focus on the productive use of resources, staff skills and time. I would also support effective learning methods outside the classroom that complement classroom teaching and provide additional support to students for academic success.

trustee-tdsb

Vimuththan Nantheeswarar

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

I would advocate for staffing and class-size decisions that reflect the actual needs of students, educators, and schools. I support a dynamic resource-allocation process that responds to changing student needs, school conditions, and community realities, rather than relying solely on static enrolment projections. My priority is ensuring every student has access to the support and opportunities they need to succeed. Investing proactively in adequate staffing is both an equity imperative and a fiscally responsible way to improve outcomes.

trustee-tdsb

Matthew Zaffino

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

Class sizes and staffing have a clear impact on student performance. Laws have changed allowing for larger class sizes and less EA support. I would work with other trustees and other school boards to advocate for the return of smaller class sizes. In addition, given my background as a CPA, I hope to find savings in other areas of board spending; the TDSB had $812M in 2025 expenses that were not salaries, wages or benefits. I would work to find savings in the $812M, and redirect a large portion of those savings to supporting better staffing.

trustee-tdsb

Timothy Ellis

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

Ultimately, the province controls the purse strings & has made the decision to chronically underfund education while suspending the statutory powers of Trustees. The province may be legally allowed to take away statutory powers, but nobody can take away the power of people to organize and effect change. I've led & won campaigns that have secured new funding and policy concessions from every level of government. I'll put my experience to work organizing and empowering Etobicoke families to demand - and win - proper resourcing of our schools.

trustee-tdsb

Ivan Voitsytskyi

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

I would listen to parents and teachers about crowded classrooms and missing support staff. My priority is that students get enough help in class, especially those who need extra support. A trustee does not hire teachers, but can ask the board to be clear about staffing and class sizes in each school. I would support using money first for classrooms, not extra office work.

trustee-tdsb

Alexis Dawson

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

I believe every child deserves equitable access to education, with the tools and supports they need to succeed. Our public education system is in crisis due to provincial underfunding. As a trustee, I will continue advocating for the teachers, EAs, resources, and smaller class sizes students need. I supported a TDSB motion capping class sizes in Grades 4–8, which the provincial government overturned. I will keep fighting for adequate funding and supports for every student.

trustee-tdsb

Andrew Waters

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

Teachers & EAs need the resources to support every student. As Trustee, I will advocate for fair funding from the Ministry & effective allocation by Board staff. My priorities are smaller class sizes, sufficient teachers & EAs, & stronger special education supports. I will push for resources that give educators the capacity to teach & students the opportunity to strive for excellence across the curriculum: from literacy, math, & science to the arts, technology, & physical education. Additional resourcing should limit screen time at school.

trustee-tdsb

Jennifer Webster

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

Enrolment is consistently changing within the board. Classes need size caps and more staff. The way that multiple governments have understaffed the TDSB for years needs to stop. There has to be a way to prioritize staff within the board, and that includes unionized staff. I would prioritize reinstating class size caps for all grades.

trustee-tdsb

Daniel Choi

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

I won’t promise smaller classes. Trustees don’t set class sizes and they don’t do the hiring. The province writes those rules and sends the money. Pretending otherwise just wastes your vote. Here’s what’s real. Twice a year I’ll ask in public for staffing and support numbers at every school here. Then I’ll publish what comes back, gaps included. I’ll take them school by school to the people who decide. Reading budgets and data is my day job. First full set published by June 2027.

trustee-tdsb

Ivanna Andrusyak

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

I believe the first step is to listen and learn. As a Trustee, I would take the time to better understand the challenges around class sizes and staffing by speaking directly with parents, teachers, educational assistants and students. I would then work with the Board to find practical solutions that put our children’s needs first. It takes a village, and our educators and families are an important part of that village.

trustee-tdsb

Anthony Delpero

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

If there is one change we could make that would have a significant impact on students’ learning potential and the overall well-being of teachers, it would be reducing class sizes. Pay increases, school renovations and other investments are important, but they cannot provide a child with the same day-to-day benefit as having more individual attention from their teacher. Smaller classes mean fewer distractions, more opportunities for students to ask questions, and a calmer learning environment. It is a no-brainer

trustee-tdsb

Andrew Massey

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

Fund the schools! Smaller classes and more staff. This is not a "two-sides" issue! My priorities are to increase frontline positions, have dedicated admins for each school, and to oppose all cuts. The recent ~900 staffing cuts and $6.4 million in dropped funding for special needs education must be reversed. Public education isn't a company, it's a service! Funding and staffing cuts make no sense and offer zero taxpayer value. Smaller class sizes and proper staffing means better outcomes and happier kids. Anything less is unacceptable.

trustee-tdsb

Jared Kolb

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

Teacher and EA staffing levels directly affect student success, inclusion, and classroom well-being. As Trustee, I would advocate for more frontline supports in schools, prioritize investments that put teachers and EAs where they are needed most, and push for transparent reporting on class sizes and staffing pressures. My focus would be ensuring every student receives the attention and support they need while making every education dollar count and protecting resources closest to the classroom.

trustee-tdsb

Theo Nazary

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

I'm running for TDSB Trustee in Ward 7 to address this exact issue: class sizes & staffing. Under Bill 101, class sizes have increased across the TDSB making it difficult for teachers to give students the attention they deserve and classes are becoming over-crowded. $6.5 billion in funding is being cut by a provincial government that isn't prioritizing our children's education or staffing issues. As your next TDSB Trustee, I will do everything in my power to ensure the provincial government is held accountable and reverses these policies.

trustee-tdsb

Andrene Gregory

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

As a TDSB Trustee, I understand that I don't have jurisdiction over hiring and firing, so I would prioritize students' and teachers' well-being because we cannot talk about accountability without talking about care. That is the essence of my platform and what raising the standard means: educational enrichment, quality of care, accountability and opportunity for everyone to thrive. This is not simply an issue about staffing; it is also a socio-economic issue that boils down to budget and which schools, jurisdictions and programs are prioritized.

trustee-tdsb

Maureen Larkin

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

Students learn best when they have the attention and support they need to succeed. That makes adequate staffing levels and manageable class sizes priorities for me. As Trustee, I will communicate with parents and caregivers, educators, and administrators to gain in-depth knowledge of each Ward 5 school’s staffing needs, then work with my fellow Trustees to identify where local needs fit into system-wide priorities, which includes paying meticulous attention to the TDSB's staffing allocation budget.

trustee-tdsb

Elina Feyginberg

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

I would ensure that classes are reasonable in size. This will allow for teachers and EAs to have the ability to spend sufficient time with each student. I would also advocate for additional resources to allow for teachers and EAs to be available for additional help for those students who may need it.

trustee-tdsb

Jennifer Volk

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

There has been chronic underfunding for schools, and in particular for supports like EAs for years. This is why advocating for more supports will be such a key role of the incoming Trustee. With Doug Ford’s proposed removal of TDSB Trustees’ ability to vote on the budget, my experience in fierce and creative advocacy will be key. While doing that I would also be open to looking at allocation models that are transparent and prioritize need. Protecting services and class sizes is a core function of a good Trustee in my opinion.

trustee-tdsb

Stacey Cline

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

The TDSB like all Boards are funded by the province, which provides funding for teachers based on system wide-averages for class size and funding for EAs based on the Special Education Grant. I voted to cap class sizes in grades 4-8, which brought the TDSB under the provincial average but unfortunately that decision was overturned by the Supervisor. As a teacher, I have consistently advocated for smaller class sizes and Education Assistants to support students in schools and I will continue to advocate for funding to do so.

trustee-tdsb

Sarah Smithies

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

Caps need to be restored for Grade 4-8 classrooms and educator to student ratios need to come down. Cuts need to be rolled back for Education Assistants, ECEs, and lunchroom supervisors. The elimination of lunch room supervisors, for instance, doesn’t eliminate the need, it just eliminates its funding. Sadly, in Calgary, the board of education now directly charges families $350/per student for lunch room supervision. Funding cuts lead to the privatization of parts of the education system and the downloading of those costs onto families.

trustee-tdsb

Saherla Osman

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

Students need adequate resources and support. As a Trustee, I would advocate for manageable class sizes, sufficient staffing, and equitable funding. My experience supporting children with disabilities and families navigating IEPs, accommodations, and transportation has shown me how gaps affect learning and well-being. I would push for transparent reporting on staffing, class sizes, unmet needs, and resource distribution, while advocating to the Province for sustainable funding and holding the Board accountable.

trustee-tdsb

Adam Golding

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

Class Sizes must go down -- this must be the primary metric by which new spending is evaluated: its affect on student-teacher ratio, or at least upon student-adult-ratio, in the case of hiring support staff rather than teachers. This bans at the same time hiring of new bureaucrats who do no real educational work directly with students, as they do not count towards the student-adult ratio. Reducing class sizes has been a cornerstone of my campaign platform both this time and last time. See my complete platform on Substack.

trustee-tdsb

Tasha Kheiriddin

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

Research shows that smaller classes produce better educational outcomes, particularly for younger students. I would advocate for a reinstatement of the cap on middle-school class size, as well as a smaller size for all classes. As a parent who has advocated for a child with exceptional needs, I also know the importance of EAs, and would like to see an increase in EA funding and numbers. Allocation should be based not just on class size, but classroom complexity, ie the number of students with exceptionalities or challenges in a class.

trustee-tdsb

Axel Arvizu

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

As a Trustee, I would listen to educators, EAs, students and families to understand where staffing gaps are affecting learning and safety. I would prioritize responsible budgeting that directs resources toward classrooms, supports students with additional needs, and helps maintain manageable class sizes. I would also advocate for transparent staffing data and accountability so the Board can identify shortages, respond to high-need schools and ensure students receive the support they need.

trustee-tdsb

Deborah Williams

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

As your Trustee, I will advocate for fair and transparent staffing decisions that prioritize student needs. Every school should have the teachers, EAs, and supports required for student success. I will work to ensure resources are allocated equitably, champion manageable smaller class sizes, and push for data-informed planning that reflects enrolment, student needs, and school community realities. I will advocate to close the $6.5-billion funding gap. Strong staffing levels are essential to safe, supportive, and effective learning environments.

trustee-tdsb

Gladstone Cherrington

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

Teachers, education workers, administrators and support staff play a vital role in student success. I will advocate for smaller class sizes, and increased funding and access to the resources needed to support students. There are school facilities that are in need of immediate repairs …I will advocate for funds to repair or update outdated facilities. The goal here is to facilitate student achievements, and improved pathways to their success.

trustee-tdsb

Shaffni Nalir

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

Cuts should not come at the expense of the support students receive every day.I am concerned about the loss of teachers and support staff and the removal of the Grade 4–8 class-size cap. As trustee, I would Push for smaller, manageable class sizes. Prioritize teachers, EAs and special-education supports. Listen to staff and families about what is happening inside classrooms. Advocate to the Province for the funding our schools need.

trustee-tdsb

Imran Khan

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

Lets start with Class Size. I say small is what I would vie for ! Teacher are not to be put under undue pressure that they have to ensure quality eduction for huge classes ! Creativity comes from being free of pressure and stress ! Let us give everyone space ! Let me fight for proper compensation , proper number of teachers and EA's and finally care for each and every learner !

trustee-tdsb

Farzana Rajwani

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

School Boards rely on provincial grants, including funds for classroom staffing and special education. Historical data shows school boards, especially special education, are underfunded, an issue highlighted annually during the budget process. I prioritize funding teachers and educational workers who directly impact students. That’s why I supported lowering class sizes and ensuring smaller special education classes, despite limited funding. Unfortunately, the Supervisor overturned these decisions.

trustee-tdsb

Dewitt Lee III

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

This is a direct result of budget cuts. I'm deeply concerned about teachers’ mental well-being as they work under increasingly difficult conditions. Students are also losing valuable teaching, mentoring & individual support that is all a part of the learning experience. As trustees, we can explore a volunteer brigade of unemployed teachers and community members, along with a student EA model, to provide additional classroom support for extra credit. We are also considering more school field trips to expand the classroom & split up the students

trustee-tdsb

Ibrahim Hatia

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

School space and staffing must keep pace with new housing in Don Valley East and West. Families already here and those moving into our neighbourhoods deserve a clear plan for their children's education. I will press for smaller classes, enough teachers and educational assistants, and support based on each child's needs. Growth must come with welcoming classrooms and adults with the time to give each child support. I will push TDSB and the province to plan ahead so parents can see their children grow in confidence and reach their full potential.

trustee-tdsb

Sonny Yeung

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

The TDSB has a $3.5 Billion Budget and about 580 schools. The Education funding formula been underfunded $900 Million a year from 2018-2026 that equals $7.5 Billion over 8 years and 3 months of the Doug Ford Conservatives. Recruitment peaked in 2015. I would be for smaller classes and greater staffing of teachers and educational - assistants. There will be a strike vote in November and given the Education Minister is a partisan Conservative, the negotiations may be in Public.

trustee-tdsb

Bill Wu

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

I would listen to school communities and use Board data and local experience to identify staffing and class size pressures. I would advocate for fair transparent resource allocation with priority for students who need additional support including educational assistants and special education services. Trustees should press the Province for adequate funding while monitoring whether resources reach classrooms. Parents and staff deserve clear explanations about decisions and meaningful opportunities to provide input.

trustee-tdsb

Carey De Pass

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

Rohit Gupta, the Doug Ford appointed, TDSB supervisor was a corporate management consultant. He struck down the 32 student cap in an effort to "streamline and standardize". I have experience teaching a grade 8 class of 40 plus students in an economically developing country. I was a math teacher. Class management, class learning, attention that the educator can give to the student, all suffer when classes go much above 25 students. Local, democratically elected trustees who are answerable to local voters would never let this happen!

trustee-tdsb

Christopher Mammoliti

Some school communities have raised concerns about teacher and educational-assistant (EA) staffing levels and class sizes. What role would you take as a School Board Trustee in addressing these concerns, and what would your priorities be?

Many community members I have spoken to in Ward 9 throughout this campaign want classroom sizes capped and are not happy with the increase, especially with all the development across Toronto. Addressing rising classroom sizes has many positive benefits, including safety and more time per student. If we are serious about high-quality education, resourcing must match that commitment. Student enrolment losses will hurt public education, and we have seen enrolment losses rise.

Candidate answers