the classroom. Why have I not grown in my school board or had opportunities available to me?”
THE JOB OF LEADERS
True leaders create more leaders, not follow- ers. ETFO recognizes both the invaluable contributions of DECEs to children’s holistic development and the importance of advanc- ing women in leadership. By developing pro- grams specifically designed to upliſt women, ETFO sets a strong precedent for leadership growth within education. Initiatives such as Leaders for Tomorrow, An Ounce of Preven- tion, Presenter’s Palette, and Visions, and Leads, alongside programs focused on union advocacy, communication and leadership, exemplify this commitment. True leadership means forging pathways where none exist, creating space for others to thrive, succeed and lead, liſting as we climb, ensuring no one is leſt behind. Like the roots of a tree, the early years
anchor everything that comes aſter. A strong and equitable education system cannot be built without prioritizing the early years, and the educators who shape them. Kindergar- ten and early childhood education are where
educators lay the groundwork for children’s lifelong learning, well-being and citizenship. Tere is enough compelling evidence that investment in high-quality early years educa- tion is essential, not only to expand access, but to ensure quality. Tat quality depends on a well-supported workforce. A balanced, evidence-informed early
years policy must centre children’s rights, play and the deep expertise of practitioners. Smaller class sizes, inclusive environments and access to mental health and special edu- cation supports empower educators to meet every child’s needs. DECEs must be support- ed through sustained professional learning, fair remuneration, and clear career pathways into mentorship and leadership. Getting it right from the start is easier
than fixing problems later. To build a sound and sustainable future, the government must invest in Ontario’s youngest learners, public schools and the early years workforce. A tru- ly sustainable education system depends on seeing and supporting both children and the educators who guide and nurture them. n
Samia Javed is a member of the Hamilton-Wentworth DECE Local.
ELEMENTARY TEACHERS’ FEDERATION OF ONTARIO 15
“
LIKE THE ROOTS OF A TREE, THE EARLY YEARS ANCHOR EVERYTHING THAT COMES AFTER. A STRONG AND EQUITABLE EDUCATION SYSTEM CANNOT BE BUILT WITHOUT PRIORITIZING THE EARLY YEARS, AND THE EDUCATORS WHO SHAPE THEM.”
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