In a historic appointment, Trustee Neethan Shan has been acclaimed as the new Chair of the Toronto District School Board (TDSB), marking the first time a person of South Asian descent holds the role. Trustee Zakir Patel has also been elected as the first Muslim Vice Chair. Both leaders were chosen at the TDSB’s Organizational Board Meeting held Nov. 13.
Shan was born in Jaffna, Sri Lanka and arrived in Canada at age 16 as a refugee and became the first Tamil Canadian to sit on Toronto’s City Council.
In 2017, Shan visited Sri Lanka with then Toronto mayor John Tory.
Chair Neethan Shan’s vision for student success
Representing Ward 17 (Scarborough Centre), Shan has served the TDSB since 2016, with a record of advocating for equity and youth empowerment. He has held key roles, including Acting Chair since July 2024, and co-chair of the Equity Policy Community Advisory Committee. As Chair, Shan aims to strengthen student achievement, create inclusive environments, and encourage community engagement.
“I want to thank the Board of Trustees for electing me as Chair of the Toronto District School Board,” said Shan. “I am eager to continue collaborating with my colleagues, the community, and all levels of government in support of the 2024-2028 Multi-Year Strategic Plan. Together, we have an incredible opportunity to guide education in this city, ensuring academic excellence for all students and creating a culture of student and staff well-being.”
Vice Chair Zakir Patel prioritizes equity and safety
Trustee Zakir Patel, representing Ward 19 (Scarborough–Guildwood), was elected as the TDSB’s first Muslim Vice Chair. First elected in 2018, Patel has chaired the Finance, Budget, and Enrolment Committee and served on the Negotiations Steering Committee. He has committed to advocating for school safety and health, as well as equitable opportunities for all students. “I look forward to representing students, staff, and families as we work to build safe and empowering learning environments across Toronto,” Patel said.
Quick Facts
- The TDSB is the largest school board in Canada, with 22 elected Trustees who represent diverse communities across Toronto.
- Trustees are responsible for advocating on behalf of their wards, addressing public concerns, and shaping policies.
