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Education Week is being marked across Ontario from May 4 to 8, with the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario recognizing the work of educators while calling for stronger support for the public education system.
ETFO says its members, including teachers, early childhood educators, and education support staff, continue to deliver high quality learning experiences despite increasing pressures in classrooms.
The union says those pressures include large class sizes, reduced access to special education supports, rising incidents of violence in schools, and ongoing challenges in recruiting and retaining educators.
ETFO President David Mastin says while Education Week highlights the dedication of education workers, it also underscores the need for sustained investment.
He says Ontario’s public education system has earned international recognition, but maintaining that standard requires stronger support from the provincial government.
ETFO represents approximately 84,000 members across the province and says educators are increasingly being asked to meet complex student needs with fewer resources, including gaps in mental health and community supports.
The union is promoting its “Eight Building Blocks for Better Schools” as a roadmap for improving equity, safety, and student well being.
ETFO says each of the priorities outlines achievable steps to strengthen public education, but progress depends on government commitment and funding.
Officials say Education Week is both a celebration of educators and a reminder that maintaining a strong public education system is a shared responsibility.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
