High school students in many communities across the province including Gananoque, are planning coordinated walkouts to protest changes to Ontario’s student aid program.
Organizers say students will quietly leave class to raise awareness about reductions to the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) introduced by the Doug Ford government.
Ashwen Foster, a Grade 12 student says the protest is intended to be peaceful and respectful while sending a clear message.
Foster says uncertainty about funding is already affecting students planning their futures.
She says the impact could extend beyond current students and affect the province as a whole.
Foster adds the situation has increased anxiety for students concerned about how post-secondary affordability will shape their lives.
Organizers say students are encouraged to participate peacefully. Students are scheduled to gather at Town Hall Park in Gananoque at noon on Friday.
