FROM THE GENERAL SECRETARY


WE’LL CONTINUE THE FIGHT FOR OUR MEMBERS AND FOR THE VALUES WE HOLD DEAR


E


very day, educators across this province go above and beyond to support their students, their com- munities, and one another. I am


continually inspired by the dedication and resolve of our members. Our goal at provin- cial office is to ensure that members have the resources, opportunities, and supports they need to thrive in their profession and to con- tinue delivering the high-quality public edu- cation that Ontario students deserve. Te past few years have been marked


by significant challenges, from the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic to the persistent underfunding of public education and the erosion of workers’ rights. Despite these obstacles, ETFO has continued to work at all levels to support members and to ad- vocate for public schools. Our work spans a wide range of initiatives, from collective bargaining and professional development to advocacy for social justice, environmental sustainability and investment in the services and supports students need. As a result of significant underfunding,


special education has suffered under the Ford Conservative government. In March, ETFO released a conclusive report on the state of special education in Ontario. Te re- port exposes the consequences of years of ne- glect and outlines 27 recommendations for the Ontario government to finally address these long-standing issues. Tese include in- creasing special education funding to match student needs and reviewing the current funding formula, reducing class sizes, hiring additional support staff, and ensuring timely access to psychological assessments. As we head into April and the celebra-


tion of Earth Day, I want to share that ETFO has taken a proactive role in addressing cli- mate change and climate justice. As an orga- nization, we understand that climate justice is not just an environmental issue — it is a social justice issue that intersects with equi- ty, health, and the future of our planet. Edu- cators play a critical role not only in making our schools more sustainable but in shaping the next generation of environmentally con- scious citizens and change makers. Trough workshops, resources, lesson plans, a spe- cial yearly issue of Voice and public cam-


6 ETFO VOICE | SPRING 2025


paigns, we are empowering members to bring climate education into their class- rooms and their communities. Check out etfo.ca/socialjusticeunion/climate-change to see everything that ETFO has available to support you. Te results of the 2025 Ontario provincial


election, which saw Doug Ford’s Conserva- tive Party secure another majority govern- ment, have underscored the importance of our work. Ford’s track record on public education, workers’ rights, and environmen- tal protections has been marked by cuts and privatization. His government’s policies have exacerbated inequities, undermined public services and prioritized corporate interests over the needs of Ontarians. In the face of another four years under


this government, ETFO remains more com- mitted than ever to fighting for our members and for the values we hold dear. Toxic politics in the United States have had a ripple effect


across the globe, including here in Ontario. Our commitment to equity and inclusion continues to be a cornerstone of our work. ETFO has long been a leader in advocating for anti-racism, 2SLGBTQ+ rights and gen- der equity. Together, we are working to cre- ate safer, more inclusive spaces for members and students alike. We recognize that equity is not a destination but an ongoing journey, and we are committed to doing the work necessary to ensure that every member and every student feels safe, valued and support- ed. Together, we have the power to create a brighter future for our schools, our students and our communities. ETFO will continue to build on the prog-


ress we have made while addressing the challenges that lie ahead. Our strength lies in our solidarity and we will work tirelessly to ensure that the voices of educators are heard loud and clear.


– Sharon O’Halloran


PHOTO BY CHRISTINE COUSINS


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