It is February already! Since September, it has felt as if the school is taking huge strides that go from one Friday to the next.
In the midst of this hectic pace, I am delighted to share the Welcome to ETFO booklet for members in their first 5 years
it is very easy to follow even in your busy work day or after work with a cuppa.
Layout of the Booklet
I especially connected with the layout of the booklet because right on the first page is the link events.etfo.org Here, you can access information about programs and conferences that support members’ understanding of ETFO, to support your involvement and leadership growth.
Then, some key programs and upcoming dates are listed.
The next page has some key messages that guide the work of our union. I am sharing below a small section of each of the following.
- ETFO Equity Statement: It is the goal of the ETFO to work with others to create schools, communities, and a society free from all forms of individual and systemic discrimination.
- ETFO Human Rights Statement: Harassment and discrimination on the basis of a prohibited ground are violations of the Ontario Human Rights Code and are illegal. The Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario will not tolerate any form of harassment or discrimination, as defined by the Ontario Human Rights Code, at provincial or local Federation sponsored activities.
- ETFO’s Equity Initiatives: ETFO is a union committed to social justice, equity, and inclusion.
- Definition of an Anti-Oppressive Framework: An anti-oppressive framework is the method and process in which we understand how systems of oppression such as colonialism, racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, classism, and ableism can result in individual discriminatory actions and structural/ systemic inequalities for certain groups in society.
- ETFO Land Acknowledgment
Letter from Your President highlights that ETFO is the largest union representing teachers with 84,000 members. In the inspiring and warm message this reminder stands out: “Your current central collective agreement expires on August 31, 2026. Preparation for the next round of bargaining is well underway. ETFO has established class size as a significant bargaining issue. Look for our Smaller Classes, Big Difference campaign advertising in your community and help spread the word to ensure the public is informed and engaged in our fight for students.”
The table of contents lists the different sections that are hyperlinked for easy access.
I highly recommend staring here because “How your union works for you” is a very important section that you need to remember and also share with colleagues even if they are not in the first 5 years of educational work within ETFO.
The booklet reminds you that, “You will need your ETFO ID number to register. If you do not know your number, please contact Member Records at memberrecords@etfo.org or 416-962-3836/1-888-838-3836 extension 3806.”
Did You Know?
As per the provincial guidelines of ETFO, “the costs for member release time, travel, meals, and accommodation are covered for these conferences.” Do check out the programs and conferences that support your goals and sign up!
I am sure you will find lots of connections with the material shared in the Welcome to ETFO booklet.
Please ask at least two people if they have read it and please share widely.
Although this booklet is addressing members in your first years, there may be many who have worked longer and have not had the opportunity to access all the resources and information. It is never too late.
With You, In Solidarity.
Rashmee Karnad-Jani
