Your Member News
February 23, 2022
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ETFO President Karen Brown said, "The problems that have come along with pandemic learning are not something that can be solved without making critical changes to the way our province treats students, families and workers."
The February 17 announcement by the Education Minister also included the requirement for school boards to keep online learning available for another school year.
Our union firmly believes that in-person instruction is the best and offers the most equitable experience for students. To ensure that all students have a safe and effective learning environment, ongoing systemic changes are required. ETFO will continue to act, lobby and mobilize for students and our public education system.
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RSI DAY
Have a sore back when you're writing reports? Do your knees hurt when you crouch by a desk? Or are your shoulders tired of writing on the whiteboard?
Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) are more than just a pain in the neck. These injuries can cause missed work and lasting health problems.
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Charter Win and Remedy
While ETFO welcomes Justice Lederer's decision on the Liberal’s imposition of Bill 115 back in 2012, President Karen Brown also said, "We recognize it does not replace the loss of ETFO members’ bargaining rights, nor the sick leave, gratuities, and salary ETFO members lost”.
If you were an ETFO member employed by a school board between September 1, 2012, and August 31, 2014, this also includes those who are no longer employed by a school board, you may be eligible for a financial remedy award. Read more here.
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ETFO in the News
Here are some of this month’s highlights of the media coverage that the union has received:
To view ETFO’s media releases and statements, including ones issued jointly with other unions and/or organizations, visit etfo.ca.
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RED FOR ED
As educators, ETFO members are working through one of the most challenging times in our history!
ETFO, along with other frontline education workers, have been fighting hard to ensure safe working and learning conditions during this pandemic and to demand fairness and justice for all workers.
Show your solidarity with others when you wear RED FOR ED each and every Friday!
Take pictures of yourself and colleagues wearing red and share them on social media using the hashtag #RedforEd.
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Elementary: A new ETFO podcast
You can now subscribe to our first-ever podcast. ETFO has launched a podcast series called Elementary.
This podcast will take on some of the big issues in education, outline opportunities available to ETFO members and bring together educators, activists, teachers, and students to share ideas and information about education. Episode one features an interview with President Karen Brown and an interview on how to use ETFO's Anti-Oppressive Framework.
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AQ Spring Registration
ETFO AQ courses provide educators with classroom resources and instructional strategies, tools and transition ideas. Register early to secure your spot - visit etfo-aq.ca.
Registration is now open and closes March 29 at 5:00 p.m. EDT while courses begin on April 4.
Check with your board to inquire about what subsidies might be available to you for general Additional Qualification courses, such as Mathematics, Environmental Education, Teaching Students with Communication Needs (Autism Spectrum Disorder), or courses related to First Nations, Métis and Inuit knowledge to support teachers as they integrate Indigenous knowledge across various curricula.
If you have forgotten your username or password, please call us at 1-877-325-7778.
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Professional Learning Events
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The provincial office is preparing to welcome members back to in-person programs!
To ensure physical distancing and update safety protocols in the 136 Isabella building, all conferences, programs and meetings scheduled to be held at the provincial office will remain virtual until Tuesday, April 18. For further information, please contact [email protected].
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Women’s Collective Bargaining Issues - Level II
May 16 and 17
Are you interested in learning more about the collective bargaining process and how you can get involved?
This participant-based conference will expand upon the skills and knowledge from Level I.
Read our flyer for more information.
Deadline to register is March 11.
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Bargaining for Equity and Social Justice Workshop
ETFO Provincial Office
April 26
(9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. EDT)
ETFO has always been committed to social justice unionism. The collective bargaining process is an opportunity for members to challenge the status quo and continue our advancement of equity. This program explores some bargaining tools, tips and strategies that can be used to make schools equitable for both members and students. Learn more.
Register by March 9 at 5:00 p.m. EST.
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Campaign Training for Members of Designated Groups
April 8 and April 9
(9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. EDT)
ETFO is pleased to offer a training program for members of designated groups who are committed to seeking election to the provincial ETFO Executive.
Register by March 1 at 5:00 p.m. EST.
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Arts Conference
April 8 (evening) and April 9
The theme is Addressing Anti-Asian Racism Through the Arts. Join us as we welcome keynote speaker Kelly Yang, New York Times bestselling author of the award-winning middle school novel, Front Desk series. Workshops will also be offered on meeting the curriculum expectations of visual arts, dance, drama, music and improv. There is a $25 registration fee.
Registration closes on March 2.
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Women In Politics: Creating Change and Making Space
**DEADLINE EXTENDED**
March 23 (evening) and March 24 (9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. EDT)
ETFO is looking for a diverse group of self-identified women members who are interested in learning more about political campaigns, electoral politics and how to hone their voice to advocate and create political change. Join us to be inspired by current and former women politicians, trustees, and candidates.
Register by March 4, at noon EST.
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Solidarity Corner
Extend your solidarity and help keep the labour movement in Ontario strong! For regular updates on strikes, pickets and labour disputes, visit the Ontario Federation of Labour action page at ofl.ca/solidarity.
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Call for Summer Academy Course Leaders
We are currently seeking course leaders for the in-person ETFO Summer Academy.
Each course runs for three consecutive days between 9:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. EDT. Over 40 courses are offered in various locations across the province between July 5 and August 18. Check out this flyer to learn more.
Interested applicants should apply by 9:00 a.m. EDT on March 28.
Full application details can be found here.
Summer Academy registration will take place in late May. For general inquiries and questions, please email [email protected].
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Join a Committee
Get involved at the committee level of your Federation and provide your perspective and expertise in the development of provincial policies, positions, programs, and initiatives.
The deadline for expressions of interest to submit a Standing Committee Application is March 1! Apply today.
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Thinking of Taking a Leave?
There are a number of factors to consider in advance of taking a leave of absence – maintaining long-term disability (LTD) insurance coverage is one of them.
Participation in the ETFO LTD Plan is mandatory. ETFO members who have LTD coverage must continue to pay their LTD premiums while on most leaves of absence. Contact your local ETFO office for advice before your leave to ensure your LTD coverage is not in jeopardy.
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Leasing vs. Buying a Car: What’s Best for Me?
Both leasing and buying have their benefits and drawbacks, so the right choice depends on your budget, driving needs and lifestyle. We've outlined some of the key factors to consider when deciding between leasing versus buying your next vehicle to help you determine which option is best for you. 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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