The Ministry of Education (name varies by province) is the provincial government department responsible for K-12 public education. The ministry establishes curriculum standards, sets graduation requirements, funds school boards, certifies teachers, and oversees education policy. While municipalities don't directly control schools, education significantly affects communities through school facility locations, enrollment patterns, and the property taxes that partially fund education. Municipal planners consider school capacity when reviewing residential developments. Some provinces collect education property taxes through municipal tax bills, though school boards operate independently from municipal councils. Ministry policies on school closures or boundaries can significantly impact neighbourhoods.