An Ontario school trustee targeted for dismissal by the provincial education minister has now stepped down. Mark Watson, alongside three other trustees from the Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board, embarked on a $45,000 trip to Italy to purchase art valued at $100,000 for the board.
This controversial trip is among several instances highlighted by Ontario Education Minister Paul Calandra as indications of financial mismanagement in certain school boards, signaling a need for governance reforms. While three trustees reimbursed their trip expenses, Calandra revealed that Watson declined to fully repay his share, leaving a remaining debt of over $12,000.
Calandra introduced a bill on Monday specifically aimed at terminating Watson’s position and prohibiting him from serving as a trustee at any Ontario school board until 2030. In response, Calandra expressed disappointment that legislative action was necessary to prompt Watson to take responsibility. He emphasized the bill’s role in upholding accountability and integrity in education.
Notably, Calandra emphasized that Watson still owes money to the school board and urged him to settle the outstanding amount promptly. He criticized the misuse of funds, stating that the money should be directed towards enhancing student success rather than funding extravagant European vacations for disconnected school board members.
Despite the lack of comment from Watson, the board confirmed his resignation on Friday.