Ontario Government Appoints Aaron Shull to Review BHNCDSB’s Spending Policies

TORONTO — The Ontario government has launched a review of the Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board’s (BHNCDSB) financial policies and practices, following public outcry over a controversial trip by trustees. Education Minister Jill Dunlop announced the appointment of Aaron Shull to lead the review, focusing on the board’s expenses, conflict of interest policies, and overall financial accountability.

The review stems from an incident in July 2024, when four of the board’s six trustees traveled to South Tyrol, Italy, to purchase religious artwork for two new schools. A subsequent Ministry of Education investigation revealed changes to the board’s policies on discretionary spending prior to the trip, raising concerns about transparency and accountability.

“Trustees are expected to be responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars and to spend education funding to support student achievement and better equip teachers in the classrooms, not on lavish trips and costly artwork,” said Minister Dunlop. “The BHNCDSB’s misuse of public dollars is appalling, and they have failed students, parents, and their community with a serious lack of fiscal responsibility and judgment.”

Scope of the Review

Mr. Shull, a seasoned legal professional and governance expert, will submit a final report to the ministry by March 2025. His review will examine:

• Trustee expenses, including travel, procurement, fundraising, and financial accountability, with a focus on the Italy trip and related purchases.
• Executive compensation, ensuring it complies with the Broader Public Sector Executive Compensation Act.
• Other relevant governance issues, including key staffing changes.

The Ministry of Education has also committed to reviewing discretionary expenses across all Ontario school boards and incorporating them into bi-annual financial disclosures to enhance accountability and transparency.

About Aaron Shull

Aaron Shull, the Managing Director and General Counsel at the Centre for International Governance Innovation, brings a wealth of experience in public policy, governance, and procedural fairness. He has practiced law in various capacities, taught at the University of Ottawa and Carleton University, and delivered keynote lectures globally.

“We look forward to seeing the outcomes of Mr. Shull’s review and his recommendations to strengthen the governance of the BHNCDSB,” Minister Dunlop said. “This review is an important step in maintaining confidence in Ontario’s publicly funded education system and preventing future breaches of fiscal responsibility.”

The findings from this review will play a pivotal role in ensuring Ontario’s school boards adhere to policies that prioritize student achievement and public trust.

SOURCE Province of Ontario