Your Member News
April 6, 2022
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Mobilize for Climate Justice
We are more aware than ever of the impact climate change will have on the quality of life of future generations. Climate change isn’t just an environmental concern; it is an ethical, economic, and political issue that affects some communities more than others.
ETFO is committed to climate justice, and in the provincial election we can raise this issue. This new fact sheet outlines climate change's realities and what you can do to work toward equity to address climate change in your classroom/school and through civic engagement.
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Our Schools and Our Fight
There are less than two months until the June 2 election. It might feel like a ways off, but we need to get active now to stop Doug Ford and his privatization, big business agenda.
Your help to spread the word and talk with friends and family is crucial to our mobilization efforts.

Sign up to say yes, you are ready to mobilize to defeat Doug Ford.
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Building and Enriching Partnerships in Kindergarten
We are thrilled to release this new ETFO resource!
Developed to empower and support teachers, designated early childhood educators (DECEs), and education leaders committed to building positive Kindergarten partnerships, this resource features the voices and first-hand knowledge of elementary teachers and DECEs. Readers are provided with strategies, tools and ideas to create an effective team in Kindergarten.
The resource will support the ongoing professional learning of members through its use of partnership stories, stories from the field, research connections and reflection questions. Purchase your copy today through ShopETFO.
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International Day of Pink
This year, April 13 marks the International Day of Pink and we are taking a public stance to say NO to 2SLGBTQ+ bullying in all its forms. Our 2022 theme focuses on the experiences and realities of members of the queer community with intersectional identities.
While the International Day of Pink only happens once a year, it is important to support 2SLGBTQ+ students all year long. Please find resources at the links below to support this essential work. ETFO 2SLGBTQ+ Resources
For more information on the International Day of Pink, visit dayofpink.org.
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May 1 Day of Action
The Ontario Federation of Labour is organizing a province-wide action in communities across the province. After two years of a devastating pandemic and four years of conservative policies, Ontario workers need more than a recovery. We need a just recovery.
We simply can’t afford another four years of the Ford government. We urgently need a new direction to support public services, families and public schools in Ontario. Will you join?
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Professional Learning Events
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The provincial office is preparing to welcome members back to in-person programs on Tuesday, April 18!
For support or information about event registration, please email events@etfo.org.
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Leadership Forum for Black Women Members
May 24 and 25
We are excited to invite 40 Black women members looking to increase their participation and activism in ETFO to participate in the second year of this two-day leadership program.
All Black women members who are interested in developing union leadership and activism from an anti-oppressive and feminist lens are encouraged to apply. Learn more here.
Register by April 11 at 5:00 p.m.
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An Ounce of Prevention Conference
May 27 and 28
This Professional Relations Services conference focuses on the old proverb, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." By offering workshops, a keynote speaker, and a plenary members are educated about their professional rights and responsibilities. Read more.
If you are interested in learning how to navigate some of the common pitfalls of working in the sector, this might be for you!
Register by April 8.
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Women in Action Level III
May 19 and 20 and
Two days in October 2022
This women's program extends from Women in Action levels I & II. It will focus on profiling diverse women's leadership in the union, building a robust collective anti-oppressive/intersectional feminist framework, learning about collective bargaining, public speaking, building allyship and much more!
Register by April 19 at 5:00 p.m.
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Next Steps Leadership Program
May 24, from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. and also on
May 25, from 9:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
This one-day training opportunity provides a space for networking, professional growth, and discussion around navigating employment within the educational sector. The program is for members who self-identify as women and from other designated groups.
Register by April 19 at 5:00 p.m.
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COVID-19 FAQ Update
In this month’s COVID-19 FAQ, you will find information about: health and safety protocols; quarantine requirements related to travel; mask mandates; and the Workplace Safety & Insurance Board.
Read the newest FAQ here.
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Starling Minds – Mental Health Resource
We are excited to announce a support resource available to all ETFO members and their families through a partnership with Starling Minds and OTIP.
The program offers self-guided, unlimited, and personalized digital support and training to help you build the knowledge, tools, and skills you need to manage stress, anxiety, and burnout better.
Along with the self-guided program, you can join live mental fitness training, conducted in weekly 30-minute drop-in sessions hosted by Dr. Andrew Miki, a renowned CBT psychologist, to help you prioritize your mental health.
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Are You Thinking of Taking a Leave?
There are several 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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Speak Up Against Casual Hate
Looking for tips and tools to address the microaggressions and everyday forms of hate you witness, check out this short guide featuring resources from the folks at Conscious Style Guide. Speaking up can start with you!
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Earth Steward Teaching Awards
Learning for a Sustainable Future is offering up to $2,000 in prizes to recognize a teacher for their outstanding contributions to sustainability education.
Do you know someone who builds students’ sustainability knowledge, skills, values and perspectives? Do they motivate their students to take action and help them become responsible local and global citizens?
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How to choose the right vehicle
When it comes to finding the right car for you, there are pros and cons to both new and used vehicles — but ultimately, your decision will likely come down to budget and your driving habits.
So how do you choose the right vehicle for yourself? Consider these factors before deciding. Read more.
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Arianna Lambert talks about Climate Change and has resources to share with educators.
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Get social and follow your union online! |
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The Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario
represents more than 83,000 teachers and education workers.
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