This is not the welcome back to which we are accustomed.
We are returning to school amidst a global pandemic, without the necessary funding from the Ontario government to achieve smaller class sizes needed to keep our schools safe.
With the collective strength of our 11,000 members, I want to assure you, as ETT President, we will be doing everything to safeguard our members’ health and safety and that of the students in their care, as we demand improved COVID-19 funding from the Ford government.
As you return to the classroom, please be aware that the ETT Office is now reopen and the ETT Executive is working to support you over the days and weeks ahead as we navigate these unprecedented times.
You can find your Executive Officer by school via the ETT website. Your Executive Officer can assist you if you have questions or require support as we return to school.
As we approach the beginning of the school year, your Principal will be reaching out to your School Staffing Committee to discuss potential changes to your School Staffing Model.
To assist Principals, and to ensure a minimally disruptive reorganization, the TDSB will be reaching out to every elementary teacher shortly with a survey regarding your grade, subject, and geographic preferences.
The reality is that there will be changes to the staff assignments that were determined in the Spring. ETT is working with the Board to ensure that this is done in a consultative manner.
ETT Members are strongly encouraged to participate in this survey, so that the TDSB is aware of your preferences if changes become necessary.
ETT Members are reminded that September 3 is an in-school PA Day for all teachers, unless you are unable to attend for medical reasons, in which case you may participate remotely. Please contact your Executive Officer should you require support in this regard.
Finally, I would like to draw your attention to the Steward mailing that has been sent to your school/worksite.
Your Steward is receiving important information for your reference and to support our actions over the next few weeks. For your convenience, we will be posting the package on the ETT website later this week.
All Stewards will be convening a meeting with members at their school/worksite to review these materials, and a video will be posted shortly to assist in holding this meeting.
In solidarity,
Jennifer Brown
ETT President
