The Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO) is preparing for job action. The union represents 83,000 educators across the province. The work-to-rule strike action will move forward on Tuesday if a contract deal is not reached with the province.
Erin Blair, president of ETFO Upper Canada Local, says it’s mainly administrative duties that are being curtailed. He noted students and parents won’t see an impact on Tuesday.
The Upper Canada Local represents 1,150 educators, including teachers with the Upper Canada District School Board.
Blair explained the job action is in response to a variety of concerns, including the current structure of the kindergarten program, which he says the government has indicated it plans to change. Blair noted cuts to special education is another factor.
He says the mental health supports are just not there. Blair explained ETFO members feel it’s necessary to stand up to education cuts.
This is phase one of the job action, which could escalate if a deal is not reached.