The Ontario government, led by Premier Doug Ford, has made a significant move by directing school boards across the province to allow students to watch Team Canada’s Olympic hockey matches during school hours. This decision, announced on social media, aims to encourage students to unite and support Canadian athletes during the Olympic Games. The policy will enable students to engage in the excitement of the competitions, starting with the upcoming gold medal match between the Canadian women's hockey team and the USA.

Education Minister Paul Calandra swiftly acted on Premier Ford’s directive, ensuring that schools would facilitate viewing the games, particularly highlighting the women’s gold medal match scheduled for Thursday and the men’s semi-final against Finland on Friday. This initiative reflects the government’s effort to boost school spirit and create an inclusive atmosphere for all students by promoting national pride and celebration through sports.

The decision to allow live sports viewing in schools is not only a response to the ongoing Olympic events but also underscores the importance of sports in educational environments, encouraging camaraderie among students. It represents a broader strategy by the Ontario government to engage youth in both recreational and national pride events, potentially making the school environment more dynamic during the Olympic season.