Ontario teachers unions are starting negotiations with the provincial government this week.
Today, it’s the turn of the Ontario English Catholic Teachers Association (OECTA) to begin their bargaining.
Back on June 30th, Premier Doug Ford stressed that kids should be back in the classroom in September with extracurricular activities and no labour disruptions.
Supplied photo of Michelle Pero
OECTA spokesperson Michelle Pero finds Ford’s comments revealing.
“I’ve seen first hand what students and education workers have gone through over the last two years, nobody wants to see disruptions. I find it interesting because (the comments) came very early in the process.”
Pero stated that working conditions for teachers are the same as the students learning conditions.
“Striving for excellence for our members is also striving for excellence within the schools for our students,” Pero mentioned. “We know that the kids should be in the classroom and learning with the proper supports around them that are properly funded.”
The current deal for all teachers unions and support staff is set to expire on August 31st.
