In Ontario eduction, we want to reward students who work hard in their spare time to develop other skills such as playing a musical instrument, joining the choir, or becoming good dancers. But we also want to ensure that all kids, regardless of their circumstances, get a chance to experience those enriching activities, too. Can that be done? Can we have both merit and equity in public education?

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The Ontario government has introduced Bill 98, the Better Schools and Student Outcomes Act, which gives the ministry more power over school boards. Mike Ramsay, school trustee for Waterloo Region District School Board and Cathy Abraham, president of Ontario Public School Boards' Association, join Steve Paikin to give their response to the bill.

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Ontario Minister of Education Stephen Lecce, joins Steve Paikin to discuss Bill 98, the Better Schools and Student Outcomes Act, and what it means for the education system.

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As high inflation sends record numbers of Ontarians to food banks, we look at the history of charitable organizations in Canada and their purpose today. How did places originally intended for temporary aid in the 1980s become permanent staples for those in need and increasingly the working poor? Experts examine where the responsibility for tackling food poverty should lie, when it comes to governments, charities, corporations, and citizens.

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The coronation of King Charles III creates a new historical point for the British monarchy. To discuss the significance of the weekend's ceremonial and traditional events, we welcome Jennifer Robson, author of a novel "Coronation Year," set against the backdrop of Queen Elizabeth's 1953 inauguration.

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It is a testament to what's possible in this country, and to the strength and brilliance of an individual, that someone could be born a refugee in a camp in Germany after the Second World War and yet one day, sit on the Supreme Court of Canada. That seemingly impossible journey is the subject of a new film, called "Without Precedent: The Supreme Life of Rosalie Abella." To discuss the film, we welcome now retired Supreme Court justice Rosalie Abella; and the documentary's producer, director, and writer Barry Avrich.

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Canadian musical icon and cultural ambassador Gordon Lightfoot died this week at age 84. Music journalis Alan Cross and Maripos Festival president Pam Carter discuss his life and legacy.

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Ottawa was the first municipality in Canada to declare an emergency due to homelessness, back in January 2020. Since then, it's only become worse. Kaite Burkholder Harris, executive director of the Alliance to End Homelessness Ottawa discusses her findings from a new report on what needs to be done to address the emergency.

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Recent data shows the average scores of Grade 12 students have risen significantly in the past 15 years. Universities in Ontario have seen an increase in applicants with averages over 90 per cent. Experts have speculated that such a spike could be resulting from educational changes like de-streaming and the growth of online learning, a shifting perceived value of post-secondary education, or a new generation of tech-savvy students. Are students just smarter, or working harder? Is grade inflation damaging? If grades no longer distinguish students, what will?

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The devastation of the opioid crisis has touched every part of this country, and so far, shows little sign of abating. Physician and Giller Prize-winning novelist, Vincent Lam, dissects the crisis at a personal and professional level in his new novel, "On the Ravine."

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