The Grand Erie District School Board has announced its decision to seek leave to appeal the Divisional Court’s findings concerning Trustee Carol Ann Sloat, whose behaviour the Board determined breached its Code of Conduct. The decision comes after multiple attempts to address what the Board describes as “toxic, bullying, and inappropriate conduct” that has necessitated over 10 staff safety plans to mitigate the unsafe working environment she has created.
Board Chair Susan Gibson explained, “This is not a choice we wanted to make, but there is truly no other viable recourse. The Board respectfully disagrees with the Divisional Court’s findings. Trustee Sloat’s behaviours have created a toxic environment for staff, and it is our legal and moral obligation to protect them.”
The Board has cited numerous incidents of inappropriate conduct by Trustee Sloat, ranging from taking confidential documents home and storming out of in-camera meetings to defaming staff and Trustees on social media and intimidating frontline employees. These behaviours, the Board states, are not “minor” infractions as claimed by Trustee Sloat, who has repeatedly painted herself as a whistleblower and victim in the matter.
Trustee Sloat’s actions have allegedly led to an unsafe workplace for more than ten staff members who have had to request safety plans. The Board contends that these behaviours are not only unacceptable but also fundamentally conflict with the role of a Trustee, which is to govern responsibly and model appropriate conduct.
While the Board has made significant strides in its mission to improve student success—including increasing graduation rates, launching innovative initiatives, and restoring fiscal health—Chair Gibson emphasized that these achievements were made despite the ongoing distractions caused by Trustee Sloat’s conduct.
The Grand Erie District School Board will continue to pursue clarity on these legal and governance issues to uphold its commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for staff and students.