Former P.E.I. chief justice David Jenkins has begun a third-party review into the Public Schools Branch's practices and policies following the Matthew Craswell sexual interference case. Craswell, a former substitute teacher, pleaded guilty to sexual interference involving a student, and it emerged that earlier allegations at different schools were not reported to police or Child Protection Services, and he was allowed to continue teaching. Jenkins aims to recommend ways to make P.E.I. schools safer, acknowledging the case has shaken public trust in the education system.
Craswell case shakes trust in schools, former P.E.I. chief justice says as his review begins
Prince Edward IslandP.E.I. Public Schools BranchDavid JenkinsHal PerryMatthew Alan CraswellRobin CroucherSexual assaultLegalSocietyStudents
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TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️Former P.E.I. chief justice David Jenkins has begun a third-party review into the Public Schools Branch's practices and policies following the Matthew Craswell sexual interference case. Craswell, a former substitute teacher, pleaded guilty to sexual interference involving a student, and it emerged that earlier allegations at different schools were not reported to police or Child Protection Services, and he was allowed to continue teaching. Jenkins aims to recommend ways to make P.E.I. schools safer, acknowledging the case has shaken public trust in the education system.
Trending- 1 2023: Allegation of similar behaviour against Craswell at West Kent Elementary School
- 2 Recently (prior to May 2025): Matthew Craswell pleads guilty to sexual interference involving a female student at Glen Stewart Primary School
- 3 May (2025): Education Minister Robin Croucher appoints David Jenkins to head the review
- 4 June 2: David Jenkins begins the review
- Shaken public trust in the education system
- Potential for recommendations to improve child safety in schools
- Increased scrutiny on education authorities' legal framework and accountability structures
- Possible changes in reporting procedures for misconduct
What: A third-party review of the Public Schools Branch's practices and policies in Prince Edward Island, prompted by the Matthew Craswell sexual interference case.
When: Review began June 2. Craswell pleaded guilty recently. Allegations from 2023. Article published June 5, 2025.
Where: Prince Edward Island, Canada (specifically Glen Stewart Primary School in Stratford, West Kent Elementary School in Charlottetown).
Why: To investigate how the Public Schools Branch handled allegations against Matthew Craswell, particularly the failure to report to police or Child Protection Services, and to recommend improvements for child safety in schools.
How: David Jenkins, appointed by Education Minister Robin Croucher, will conduct the review, with powers to compel documents and witnesses.