Theodore Case Update
Dear parents and caregivers;
On February 25, 2021, the Supreme Court of Canada dismissed Good Spirit (Public) School Division's application for leave to appeal the Theodore case to the Supreme Court of Canada.
This means that the unanimous decision of the Saskatchewan Court of Appeal that overturned the April 2017 trial decision stands. Good Spirit has exhausted their legal options, and the decision of the Appeal Court remains the law in Saskatchewan—which can be considered a victory for both religious and parental rights and freedoms.
Background information on the Theodore case can be found at www.opencatholiceducation.ca.
I am sure you are as happy and relieved by this decision as I am. Even though the Government of Saskatchewan assured us they would do whatever is necessary to protect your choice for your child's education, this decision definitively confirms what we have said and believed all along: as parents, you know what is best for your children and you should be able to choose Catholic, faith-based education if that is what you want—no matter your reason, faith background or tradition.
I speak for our entire Board of Education when I say thank you for entrusting us with your child's education. Despite some uncertainty for some of you, you made a choice. We are both humbled and encouraged that so many of you continue to want Catholic education for your family.
I also thank all of the donors who generously gave to fund the appeal. Because of you, all eight Catholic boards in the province were able to keep education funds in the classroom and not divert them to cover costly courtroom expenses.
A significant amount of time and money has been spent on this court case, and we are pleased that we can all refocus our energy and resources on our students and families to build upon the exemplary model of education we have in this province.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to ask me or one of my fellow trustees.
Blessings to you all!
Sincerely,
Diane Boyko, Board of Education Chair
Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools
