CONTENT WARNING: This article discusses sensitive topics related to suicide and reports of mistreatment.
A group of approximately twenty former students of Robert Land Academy gathered at Queen’s Park in Toronto to advocate for improved oversight of private schools in Ontario, prompted by allegations of abuse at the now-closed military-style institution.
The call for action follows an investigation by CBC News into historical claims of physical and emotional abuse, including instances of sexual exploitation, at the Wellandport school. Investigations revealed that some instructors at Robert Land Academy had criminal records during their employment in the 1990s and early 2000s.
Chandra Pasma, a member of the provincial parliament and the NDP’s education critic, emphasized the need to prevent institutional abuse masquerading as education, stressing the urgency of immediate measures to address the issue.
Chandra Pasma is working on a private member’s bill to enhance regulations for private schools. Watch the video for more details.
Advocacy for Enhanced Oversight of Private Schools in Ontario
Former students argue that their firsthand experiences underscore the necessity for increased government involvement in overseeing private school operations in Ontario.
Unlike public schools, private school staff are not mandated to undergo comprehensive vulnerable-sector background checks that could reveal prior criminal charges.
Robert Land Academy ceased operations in June and declared bankruptcy, while around 120 former students have initiated legal actions to address the alleged abuse they claim to have endured primarily during the 1980s, 1990s, early 2000s, and even into the 2010s.
It is important to note that these allegations have not been legally tested.
Jarett Holmes, who attended Robert Land Academy with his brother Evan in 1999 at the age of 14, recounted being isolated from his sibling, subjected to physical punishment, forced labor, and prohibited from contacting his parents to report the mistreatment.
In his statement, Jarett emphasized the need for stringent regulations for individuals working with children, especially vulnerable youth, stressing that political affiliations should not overshadow child safety concerns.
Efforts to engage with Education Minister Paul Calandra by former students have reportedly gone unanswered.
In response to inquiries, the minister’s press secretary, Emma Testani, highlighted the provincial
