By now, you’ve probably heard all about the TDSB’s projected $58 million deficit and planned cuts for next year. And Ontario government is using their self-made crisis of funding to launch a thinly-veiled threat to take over the TDSB by starting an investigation into its finances.
Despite government claims of “historic investments” in education, real per-student funding in Ontario has declined by over $1,500 since 2018 when adjusted for inflation. Altogether, that’s about $3 billion less investment in our schools this year.
32 School Boards across Ontario ran deficits this year. Only 15 Boards had “balanced” budgets, many of which (like the TDSB) only did so by cutting vital programs and staff last year. Ford and Calandra are squeezing Public Education in every corner of the Province.
We’re working with other Education Unions across the city to fight Provincial Austerity and the resulting TDSB Cuts. The Fund Our Schools campaign has lots of ways for you to plug in and join the fight. Here’s three easy ways to get involved:
1. Share Your Story
- Join teachers, education workers, and parents across the city and share your story about how Conservative cuts are impacting your work inside your schools and beyond. Click here to share your story now.
2. Rally for Education Funding
- The Ontario NDP, unions, and advocacy organizations are calling for a huge turnout at Queen’s Park on May 24 (12pm-1:30pm) for a rally demanding more education funding and no more cuts to public education. Let’s show a strong ETT presence. See you all there! Click here to RSVP now.
3. Join the MPP Phone Zap
- We’re planning to flood the phone lines of Conservative MPPs on May 27th 4-6:30pm. You can call from anywhere, and we’ll provide a script and all the info you need! Click here to register for the Phone Zap.
Everything can be found at www.FundOurSchools.ca. Nothing’s going to change if we don’t act now––let’s get moving!
