Below is a statement from the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO) following today’s provincial budget announcement:

“ETFO continues to sound the alarm on the provincial government’s ongoing refusal to address the chronic underfunding of Ontario’s public education system. Following another provincial budget announcement that failed to allocate any new funding for education, these persistent cuts are forcing school boards to reduce services, stripping students of the essential supports they need to succeed. 

This budget ignores rising costs school boards are facing due to inflation. It exacerbates issues caused by large class sizes, further abandons students with disabilities, dismisses violence in schools, and fails to adequately address the teacher recruitment and retention crisis across the province. This isn’t just inaction; it is negligence. 

The Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO) is celebrating Education Week, May 5 to 9, by recognizing the dedication and professionalism of Ontario’s public elementary educators who continue to deliver high-quality learning experiences in the face of growing challenges.

“Every day, ETFO members bring compassion, creativity, and a deep commitment to supporting student learning and well-being,” says ETFO President Karen Brown. “From teachers and occasional teachers to designated early childhood educators and education and professional support personnel, their contributions are the foundation of a strong public education system. But to maintain that strength, meaningful and adequate investment is essential.”

TORONTO, ON – The following is a statement from the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO) on tariffs imposed by the U.S. government on Canadian products:

“The imposition of American tariffs is having far-reaching consequences for working families, students, and ETFO members. These measures, which violate the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement, are beginning to impact key sectors of the Canadian economy, deepening the affordability crisis, creating financial uncertainty, and exacerbating food insecurity. As a result, many families are experiencing rising financial instability due to job losses and growing economic challenges.

The following is a statement from the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO) on the Ontario Human Rights Commission’s (OHRC) report Dreams Delayed: Addressing Systemic Anti-Black Racism and Discrimination in Ontario’s Public Education System:

“ETFO welcomes the OHRC’s efforts over the last few years to address systemic anti-Black racism in education, including its release of Dreams Delayed: Addressing Systemic Anti-Black Racism and Discrimination in Ontario’s Public Education System. All stakeholders, including unions, are complicit in the way anti-Black racism has been embedded into the fabric of the education system. 

TORONTO, ON – The following is a statement from the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO) on today’s Cabinet announcement:

“ETFO welcomes Paul Calandra as Ontario’s new Minister of Education. We are ready to work together to restore and strengthen Ontario’s public education system after years of damaging budget cuts and policies that have failed to prioritize students and education workers.

Toronto, ON – As Black History Month begins, the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO) celebrates the many achievements and lasting contributions of Black Canadians. Black history is woven into the fabric of Canadian history—past, present, and future. The accomplishments, strength, and excellence of Black individuals and communities deserve recognition this month, as well as celebration, respect, and reflection every day of the year.