Your Member News
November 9, 2022
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Collective Action Reverses Bill
It’s up to all of us to stand up against a government that uses legislation as a blunt instrument to legislate away our constitutional rights.
It’s up to all of us to rise against oppressive and draconian measures intended to attack democracy by trampling on Charter rights.
And it’s up to all of us to welcome and inspire others to join our fight.
This is what we did this past week when our union stood shoulder to shoulder, united with private and public sector unions. Together we forced the Ford government to rescind Bill 28, the legislation that would force CUPE education workers back to work and interfere in their bargaining process.
At the November 7 joint labour media conference Karen Brown, ETFO President, said, “Let there be no doubt that we will not stand by and watch the government strip away our constitutionally-protected rights because they want to avoid the inconvenience of negotiations. Never—not today, not in this province.”
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CUPE Solidarity – Stay Tuned!
This week, the CUPE bargaining team returned to negotiations as Ford confirmed that on Monday, November 14, the Ontario government would rescind the back-to-work legislation and remove it from the legislative record.
What a significant victory for all workers in the province and across Canada.
Please remember that your solidarity and support for CUPE education workers are still needed as bargaining continues. To stay up to date on CUPE negotiations, visit the Ontario School Board Council of Unions (OSBCU) site at osbcu.ca.
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In the News
It’s been a busy couple of weeks thanks to the heavy-handed actions of the Ford government. Here are a few ETFO provincial media stories from the past month:
To view all of our media releases and statements, visit etfo.ca.
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Looking for a Resource
ETFO has tons of great resources, learning tools and even videos to assist members in deepening both professional and personal learning. You must log in to the Members’ Secure site to access these great resources.
You must create your password and provide your ETFO ID number to log in. If you require support, please email webadmin@etfo.org.
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You Have Rights - Know Them
Earlier this week, the Provincial Health and Safety conference took place in Toronto. Members reviewed issues and strategies to address workplace violence, COVID, and other general health and safety concerns through workshops, presentations, group discussions, and sharing. Every member needs to know that you have the right to refuse unsafe work.
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Copyright Matters
A new Reference Guide for Teachers provides practical information on your rights and responsibilities regarding the use of copyright-protected materials in schools.
The latest, or fifth, edition includes new details on copyright and online learning. Download your copy at copyrightmatters.ca.
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Professional Learning Events
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Visions Program: For Women in their First Five Years
This exciting three-session program highlights union involvement and focuses on participants developing an anti-oppressive and feminist framework.
Members will build their knowledge of ETFO, the broader labour movement, and opportunities for leadership and activism.
- December 8 and 9, 2022;
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January 16 and 17; and
- March 23 and 24, 2023
Registration is extended to November 11. There is a $75 registration fee.
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Presenter’s Palette
This two-day workshop will take place on January 25 and 26, 2023, at the ETFO provincial office in Toronto.
During this program, members are provided with an opportunity to develop skills in planning and presenting curriculum sessions to colleagues.
Those members who are interested in leadership opportunities within ETFO will find this workshop beneficial.
Registration closes December 5 at 9:00 a.m. EST.
To view conference information and application details, visit the Members’ Secure site here.
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AQ Course Spotlight Winter 2022
ETFO AQ is proud to highlight First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples: Understanding Traditional Teachings, Histories, Current Issues and Cultures, Part 1. We are one of only five AQ providers to offer this course, with Part 2 and Specialist courses coming soon.
Check with your board to learn what subsidies might be available to you for the First Nations, Metis and Inuit studies AQ courses. This funding provides support to help you learn qualifications to teach First Nations, Métis and Inuit studies, as well as the knowledge, to teach Indigenous focussed content across various curricula.
Winter registration is now open. Register early at etfo-aq.ca, as courses fill up quickly. If you have forgotten your username or password, please call 1-877-325-7778.
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Women of Courage Training
The Women of Courage Project is a free, eight-week online workshop offering courses for racialized and immigrant women on storytelling, anti-racism and self-care. The workshop is held on Tuesday and Thursday from November 15 to January 19 from 6:00- 8:00 p.m. EST.
Participants have access to one-on-one appointments for digital skills, writing coaches and mental health support. Learn more.
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Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter
Seasoned Canadian drivers know the toll a long winter can take on a vehicle. Between the snow, ice, salt and slush on the roads and the wet, cold climate, it’s a tough season for vehicle owners. While harsh winters are an unavoidable reality of life in Canada, there are steps you can take to prevent damage to your vehicle and to keep you safe on the road.
Here’s a list of seven things you can do to get your vehicle winter ready. Read more.
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The Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario
represents more than 83,000 teachers and education workers.
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