One of the major benefits ETFO provides for the designated early childhood educators (DECEs)* it represents is legal protection when work-related problems occur. These educators work closely with young children and, like teachers, are vulnerable to complaints lodged by the public.
There was an emergency evacuation at an Ontario school last October. Over a period of three days, staff had reported headaches and difficulty breathing. By the time the school was evacuated, some staff required medical help.
One of the biggest challenges ETFO provincial and local offices face is convincing members with disabilities to come forward and request the accommodations they need. Sadly, the prevailing culture in schools and in our broader society does not always foster this kind of disclosure.
ETFO’s 11th annual …and still we rise conference once again demonstrated the federation’s leadership in educating members about issues facing women and children worldwide.
This month work will begin on a project that has been in development for several years. Demolition crews will begin tearing down an old building to make way for a new home for ETFO.
It’s not often that I’m able to deliver good news in this column. But this is one such occasion. I’m happy to be able to tell you that we have made progress on the issue of EQAO-related initiatives.
Re: Disabled or Enabled? Turning challenges into an asset (December 2010)
The concept of a Girls’ Leadership Conference sprang from a successfulthree-day Girls’ Leadership Retreat with 80 Grade 7 girls. These same girls and eight teachers who attended the retreat were also invited toattend the conference.
OTF engages in many activities to promote education throughout the province.