Catholic school divisions in Saskatchewan are pleased with the outcome in the Theodore case. (file photo/CKOM News Staff)

By Josh Ryan

Expected relief

Catholic School Boards pleased with Theodore case outcome

Feb 27, 2021 | 10:00 AM

Catholic School Division Boards in Saskatchewan is pleased that the longstanding Theodore case seems to have come to an end.

Thursday, the Supreme Court of Canada said it won’t hear the appeal of Good Spirit School Division (GSSD) that sought to overturn a funding decision for a school in Theodore, Saskatchewan. Glen Gantefoer, of the Light of Christ Catholic School Division, said it was good news for Catholic schools, following a 16-year legal battle.

“A lot of time, money, and effort was spent over this case and we’re quite pleased that it appears it’s finally over with,” he said. “I hope there’s an end to this and that now we can take some steps to unify the membership within the Saskatchewan School Board Association.”

The decision that went in favour of Catholic schools occurred last May. Gantefoer said this is important for parents, as plenty choose to send their kids to Catholic schools even if they aren’t Catholic. Now, that decision would not be disrupted by the risk of funding being rescinded by the province.

“We would have to say no to those parents and that wouldn’t be a good thing, it would take away parental choice,” Gantefoer said.

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Tom Fortosky, executive director of the Saskatchewan Catholic School Boards Association, said in a statement that while they were confident in the government’s assurance they would protect school choice for parents, the decision confirms what they have believed.

“Parents know what is best for their children and they should be able to choose Catholic, faith-based education if that is what they want — no matter their reasons, faith backgrounds, or traditions,” he said.

Fortosky added they are excited to now use their resources and time in other areas.

Colleen MacPherson, chair of Public Schools of Saskatchewan, said in a media release at the time the case wasn’t about whether separate schools have the right to exist in Saskatchewan, but rather whether they should be receiving public funding while admitting students of a minority faith.

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josh.ryan@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @JoshRyanSports