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ETFO's Submission to Pre-Budget Hearings
ETFO First Vice-President Susan Swackhammer presented the federation's submission to the legislature's pre-budget hearings on January 16, 2014. The brief identifies the contribution of ETFO members and other public sector employees to deficit reduction and encourages the government to support public sector services and public sector jobs as a way to promote economic recovery. It identifies a number of key education policies that require additional funding in order to ensure Ontario students continue to receive quality education. The federation reiterates the need to end standardized testing or move to a random sample testing model. This would contribute to more engaged classrooms and savings to the education sector. Finally, the submission speaks to the importance of addressing the growing income inequality among Ontarians and the need to move forward with tax reform to more equitably distribute economic prosperity. |
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Protest the Latest College of Teachers Fee Increase
Just before the holidays, the OCT approved a budget increase of almost $3 million for 2014. This resulted in an 8.7% fee increase also being approved. The OCT fee has increased a whopping 25% since 2012.
Soon you will pay the new OCT fee of $150 either directly to the College or via payroll deduction. Let's send a message to the College that enough is enough; that it is time for them to live within their means. Use the ETFO campaign tool to send a message to CEO Michael Salvatori and Council Chairperson Liz Papadopoulos.
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Report Concerns About Workplace Security
Site security concerns could include lack of access to the classroom key, a faulty door lock, a PA system that doesn't work, or an absence of information. Each of these factors could be a serious weakness in an emergency. Report security concerns to your principal. If you need help making that report or getting results, talk to your steward and get in touch with your ETFO local.
Click here to read more about emergency procedures.
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Primary ETFO Arts is a practical resource for primary teachers that uses 10 picture books to support the integration of dance, drama, music, and visual arts in the classroom. The 10 picture books are a springboard for arts experiences and learning, inviting young children into the story world where they are challenged to look, listen, connect, think, question, and respond.
Each section includes verbal and non-verbal classroom activities to stimulate imagination, communication, and critical thinking. Discovery questions, story starters, teaching tips and assessment prompts are also included. Copies can be ordered from shopETFO for $20.00 each plus shipping and HST.
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International Day of Pink
International Day of Pink is Wednesday, April 9, 2014. Day of Pink is the day to stop homophobic and transphobic bullying and discrimination in schools and communities. In previous years, ETFO members and their students have participated in this event. ETFO is proud to support this event in 2014. For further information go to the Day of Pink website or contact Adam Peer at the ETFO provincial office 416-962-3836/1-888-838-3836, extension 2239.
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WorldPride 2014 Toronto (WP14TO) is an international celebration incorporating activism, education, and the history and culture of global LGBTTIQQ2SA communities. WorldPride runs from June 20-29, 2014 and ETFO will be participating.
Please mark your calendars and watch future eNewsletters for details about how members can volunteer and take part in ETFO sponsored events. For more information visit the WorldPride 2014 website or contact Adam Peer at the ETFO provincial office 416-962-3836/1-888-838-3836, extension 2239.
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These awards support and recognizes the creative nutrition initiatives of kindergarten to grade 8 teachers in Ontario!
It is important to teach your students about healthy eating and encourage them to develop skills for eating well. The Teach Nutrition Awards want to acknowledge and support educators' efforts. Up to 100 awards of $100 each will be presented every year to selected kindergarten to grade 8 teachers in Ontario, in recognition of their innovative and original ideas for teaching nutrition. Click here for more information or to apply online.
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etfo Awards
Countdown to February 3 Deadline!
This is a final reminder of the February 3rd deadline for ETFO's provincial awards program. This group of awards recognizes activities and programs at the local level, distinguished academic achievements, long service, and outstanding contributions to education and this federation by its members and others. Click here for more information about these awards.
If you have any questions or require further information, please contact Lorna Larmour 416-962-3836/1 888-838-3836 extension 2212 or your local office.
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Get Involved
ETFO Standing Committees
Here's your chance to become involved in your union by applying to an ETFO Standing Committee. Becoming a member of a standing committee will provide you with the opportunity to share your expertise and become an empowering voice on federation issues related to provincial policies, positions, programs, and initiatives.
2014-2016 applications are currently being accepted. Click here for more information. Deadline for applications for the 2014-2016 term is March 1, 2014.
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Upcoming
Workshops and Events
Stay Calm and Carry On: Mental Health Matters (January 24-26), ... and still we rise (March 26-28) and other upcoming conferences.
See ETFO's calendar for upcoming events and the highlights section of etfo.ca to find out what's new at the federation.
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Reminder
Change of Address -- ETFO Provincial
Reminder that the address for ETFO's provincial office has changed. The new address is 136 Isabella Street, Toronto, ON, M4Y 1P6. All other information remains the same.
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