Your Member News
November 23, 2022
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Solidarity Works!
Over the last two weeks, the union extended its solidarity with CUPE education workers to stand up against the government’s use of legislation, the Keeping Students in School Act, Bill 28, that would abruptly end CUPE contract negotiations. This legislation was an unprecedented attack and an overreach on union bargaining rights and Charter rights, which had not been seen in Ontario’s history.
Together with unions and workers across Ontario, we fought back and won!
On November 14, the Ford government repealed its original oppressive bill. The collective power and political action of unions, workers, and families made this possible—our labour movement is more united than ever.
ETFO will continue to act vigorously to protect our public education system and ensure students receive the quality education and services they deserve.
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How Cold is Too Cold?
Regulations of the Occupational Health and Safety Act state that an enclosed workplace shall be at a temperature of “not less than 18°C”. Your school should have a plan in place to act if the heating/ventilation system fails.
If the temperature is below 18°C, the principal must make provisions for a safe workplace by providing a safe heat source or relocating the class to another room with adequate heat. Contact your local and/or the provincial office for assistance if necessary.
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Transgender Day of Remembrance
Each year, ETFO recognizes the International Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR). It is a day to remember transgender people, gender non-conforming individuals, and those perceived to be transgender who have been murdered because of hate.
Visit this link for our 2022 tip sheet to mark this important day.
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Safer Work Action
Did you know that in the past two years, seven in ten workers have experienced violence and harassment at work? And one in three of these incidents resulted from a third party, including students, clients, patients, customers, and contractors or subcontractors.
The stats are alarming, and it’s time to address this chronic issue.
As part of the 16 Days of Activism on Gender-Based Violence, organized annually from November 25 to December 6, the Canadian Labour Congress has launched an online action to lobby for the adoption of international standards to address gender-based violence and harassment at work.
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Better Pay, Quality, and Access
Last year the federal government announced it would spend $30 billion over five years to reduce child care fees and increase the number of licensed programs. This was a positive step, but the demand for affordable licensed child care far outweighs what is available.
On November 30, participate in the National Day of Action for Child Care to demand Child Care Now: Better Pay, Better Quality, Better Access. Wear polka dots and use #dotsforspots to show support!
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Professional Learning Events
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Anti-Oppression Framework Training
January 16 and 17, 2023
This is the inaugural Anti-Oppression Framework training program. Starting next school year, this program will be a prerequisite for members attending Union School, CB Academy, and Parliamentarian Training.
Attendees will participate in a variety of workshops, scenarios, and discussions led by staff from every service area that will provide tools and strategies for actively engaging in dismantling systemic inequities.
Registration closes December 7.
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January 19 and 20
This conference will support the leadership development of women members as they build their knowledge and advocacy for addressing workplace violence to ensure workplaces are safer and healthier.
Registration closes December 7 at 5 p.m. EST.
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January 10 and 11
ETFO invites women members to attend a two-day professional learning event addressing lateral violence in the workplace and community.
Registration closes December 9.
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February 6 and 7
This conference supports women's leadership development to gain insights, skills and confidence in dealing with health and safety issues in the context of sex and gender. Women keen on learning more about occupational health and safety advocacy should participate.
Registration opens December 2 and closes December 16 at 5 p.m. EST.
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January 25 and 26
Join us for an opportunity to develop your skills in planning and presenting curriculum sessions.
Members who are interested in leadership opportunities within ETFO will find this workshop beneficial.
To view the conference information and the application, click here.
Registration closes December 5 at 9 a.m. EST.
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Join the Humanity Fund Board
The Board is looking for a member to serve as a member director. All active members are eligible.
The Humanity Fund was created in 2002 to provide members with a way to work together to support children and their teachers in Canada and abroad. The Humanity Fund Board is responsible for approving donations to charities that apply for funding. The board typically meets twice a year; the term is for two years, renewable for a further two years.
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ETFO Awards
The Awards Program recognizes distinguished academic achievements and outstanding contributions to education and the Federation by members and others.
ETFO distributes more than $120,000 annually through the program. Members can nominate themselves, their colleagues and/or community members, as applicable. Learn more at etfo.ca/awards and apply before February 1.
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Access free online mental health resources
As a part of the Ontario Education Community, you can access FeelingBetterNow, an e-mental health platform for assessment and treatment. This platform uses evidence-based e-mental health technologies to help you improve your mental health, allowing you to identify mental health issues early and take immediate action confidentially.
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Starling Minds – Mental Health Resource
This support resource is available to all members and their families through a partnership with OTIP.
The program offers self-guided, unlimited, and personalized digital support to help you build the knowledge, tools, and skills to manage stress, anxiety, and burnout better.
Members can also join live mental fitness training conducted in weekly 30-minute drop-in sessions hosted by Dr. Andrew Miki, a renowned CBT psychologist.
Access these resources in three easy steps:
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Register at member.starlingminds.com
- Enter your access code: ETFOMEMBER
- Enter your email address and create a password
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Nominate an Educator
Help celebrate those who go above and beyond to create safe spaces for their students, continue to work hard to make learning fun and inspire the next generation to be bold innovators and creators.
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In The Fall Months, Iyanuoluwa Akinrinola reflects on all the feelings that this time of year may evoke and shares mental health resources.
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Math may be digits and numbers, but it’s not universal. Diane Kim offers strategies to support students in becoming more Fluent in Math.
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Sharon Either has been thinking about the importance of representation in learning and why Centering Joy is vital when sharing and embedding identity in the classroom.
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The Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario
represents 83,000 teachers and education workers.
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