Former Saskatoon Christian School Director Convicted of Assaulting Students with Paddle

A former director of a private Christian school in Saskatoon has been found guilty of assaulting multiple students with a wooden paddle during his tenure more than a decade ago.

Joshua Olubobokun, who served as director of Christian Centre Academy (now Legacy Christian Academy) from 2003 to 2007, was convicted on nine counts of assault with a weapon. The ruling was delivered by Judge Lisa Watson, who stated that the Crown had proven beyond a reasonable doubt that Olubobokun physically assaulted students under his authority.

Testimonies from former students described a disturbing pattern of discipline. Pupils were routinely accused of misconduct, summoned to the director’s office, instructed to bend over a desk or chair, and struck repeatedly with a wooden paddle. Some victims reported visible bruises, and in one instance, the paddle allegedly broke during an assault.

Reacting to the verdict, former student Caitlin Erickson, who had long campaigned for justice, described the moment as deeply emotional and affirming.

“It’s very validating and healing for everybody,” she said. “To have the justice system say this wasn’t OK – that means a lot. It’s been a very long journey for us to finally have our day in court and see justice served.”

Olubobokun’s conviction marks a significant moment in a broader investigation into allegations of abuse at the school, which has faced intense scrutiny and criticism in recent years.

Legal proceedings regarding other staff members and systemic practices at the institution are reportedly ongoing.