EDUCATION WEEK
Celebrating educators, demanding action for Ontario's students

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."

Today's classrooms are under increasing strain. Chronic underfunding, growing class sizes, reduced access to special education supports, rising incidents of violence in schools, and the impact of inflation on families are making it harder for students to succeed. Educators are being stretched thin, often having to do more with less, while supporting students with complex needs and limited access to mental health and community services.

Adds Brown. "Education Week is a time to celebrate the incredible work happening in classrooms, but it's also a time to face the facts: our public schools urgently need investment. We need real commitment from Education Minister Paul Calandra and the Ford government one that prioritizes smaller class sizes, better supports for students with disabilities, and ensures schools are safe and supportive for all."

Ontario's public education system is recognized globally, and it's our shared responsibility to ensure it continues to thrive. ETFO has identified Eight Building Blocks for Better Schools key priorities that reflect the Federation's commitment to equity, safety, and student success. These include smaller class sizes, safer and healthier schools, enhanced supports for students with special needs, meaningful assessment, enriched programming, inclusive classrooms, a strong voice for educators, and a unified public school system. Each element represents a step toward building a stronger, more equitable public education system for all.

To learn more and to see how much the Ford government has cut from individual schools this year visit BuildingBetterSchools.ca. ETFO represents approximately 83,000 members, including public elementary teachers, occasional teachers, designated early childhood educators, education support personnel, and professional support personnel.