FROM THE GENERAL SECRETARY
BUILDING ON OUR STRENGTH: A NEW SCHOOL YEAR OF ADVOCACY AND SOLIDARITY
T
he start of the school year is a moment to reflect on our core values as an organization. ETFO is unwavering in our commit-
ment to equity, to providing safe and inclu- sive learning environments for all students and to advocating fiercely for the supports, resources and working conditions that make Ontario public schools exceptional. To lay the groundwork for bargaining in 2026, ETFO has launched a powerful, province-wide campaign centred on the fundamental issue of class size. We know unequivocally that smaller classes are a cornerstone of equitable education. Tey allow for individualized attention, stronger student-educator relationships and inclu- sive practices that benefit every child. Tey are critical to ensuring that educators have the working conditions to allow them to do their very best for every student. To ignore class size is to ignore the glaring inequities within our public education system. Our smaller classes, BIG DIFFERENCE
campaign explicitly highlights how over- crowded classrooms exacerbate existing is- sues, undermining students and educators. We are fighting for a system in which every student,
regardless of their background,
identity, or learning needs, has an equal op- portunity to succeed. Tis means advocat- ing for the resources that allow for targeted interventions, culturally responsive pedago- gy and the time to build the profound con- nections that foster a true sense of belong- ing and well-being. Our campaign is designed to make an
impact in every corner of the province. You will see our message on television screens, hear it on radio stations and encounter it on digital platforms and social media. Out-of- home advertising, from billboards to transit shelters, will ensure this critical conversation reaches parents and community members wherever they are. Tis approach is not just about raising
awareness; it’s about mobilizing a broad co- alition of support to demand what is right for our students and for the dedicated profes- sionals who teach them every day. Tis is a collective effort, and every member has a role to play in sharing this message.
6 ETFO VOICE | FALL 2025 How can you help? Make sure that you
sign up to the campaign at BuildingBetter-
Schools.ca. Keep on top of bargaining news by subscribing to the bargaining e-newsletter through
etfocb.ca. Spread the word about what we’re fighting for, and why. Our parallel commitment is to you, our
members. As you head into the new school year, I encourage you to explore the many programs, resources and supports that are available to you through both your local and the provincial office. ETFO provincial runs dozens of programs every year that are open to our members and accessible at
etfo.ca. From workshops on anti-oppressive peda- gogy, social justice and leadership training to health and safety, Indigenous education and collective bargaining, ETFO offers a com- prehensive range of programs designed to support your professional growth, enhance your well-being and empower your advo- cacy. We also offer curriculum and profes- sional resources along with direct support to
members through our Professional Relations Services department. I invite you to get involved in your union.
Consider putting your name forward for a role as a school steward or on your local committees, where you can directly support colleagues and shape the direction of our collective work. You can also participate in provincial committees, professional learning opportunities or attend member mobiliza- tion events to connect with a powerful net- work of educators. Te new school year is a fresh start filled
with possibility. Let’s work together to sup- port our students and one another. Tere are so many opportunities to get involved and lean into your union. Together, through our advocacy in bargaining and our dedication in classrooms, we will continue to build a more just and equitable education system for all. Wishing you the best in the new school
year. – Sharon O’Halloran
PHOTO BY CHRISTINE COUSINS
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