TORONTO, ON – In November 2022, the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO) and other unions won a major victory at the Ontario Court of Justice when Justice Markus Koehnen ruled that Bill 124, which capped wage increases for public sector employees at one per cent annually for three years, infringed upon union members’ right to freedom of association under the Charter. Instead of accepting the court’s decision, the Ford government pressed forward with an appeal that is being heard this week.

TORONTO, ON – The following is a statement from the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO) on Bill 98, The Better Schools and Student Outcomes Act:

“Earlier today, despite strong opposition from education stakeholders, the Ontario government pushed through legislation that sets public education back decades, undermines student outcomes, diminishes accountability and transparency, and lays the groundwork for further privatization of public education.

Chronic underfunding of public education responsible for rise in violence

TORONTO, ON – An alarming number (77 per cent) of members of the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO) say they have personally experienced violence or witnessed violence against another staff member, according to a survey conducted for the Federation in February and March 2023.

“Learning is being disrupted and violence is being normalized in schools because the Ford government refuses to adequately invest in public education. The system is suffering from chronic underfunding, under-resourcing, and understaffing, creating environments where student needs are going unmet,” says ETFO President Karen Brown. “The province must provide adequate funding so learning and working environments are physically and psychologically safe for students, teachers, and education workers.”

TORONTO, ON – Education Week, which takes place annually during the first week of May, is an opportunity to recognize the magic that happens in public schools across Ontario each day. It’s also a reminder that public education is worth protecting given its invaluable role in giving every child an equitable chance for success.

“The magic of teaching is challenging to describe, yet it is unmistakably special when witnessed in person, in schools each and every day,” says Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO) President Karen Brown. “Physical classrooms are environments where children are supported to thrive—where they can explore, take risks, and receive one-on-one attention and care from educators. The commitment and professionalism of educators are what continue to sustain our public schools.”