With kids returning to class in a matter of days, four of Ontario's teachers' unions have filed appeals with the Ontario Labour Relations Board over health and safety concerns in schools.
The Association des enseignantes et des enseignants franco-ontariens (AEFO), the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO), the Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association (OECTA), and the Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation (OSSTF/FEESO) are each filing appeals arguing the Ministry of Education's plan for re-opening schools does not take every reasonable precaution to protect workers.
“Schools and classrooms are unique workplaces, with upwards of 30 people sharing small spaces,” said ETFO President Sam Hammond. “Smaller class sizes would help make schools safer. Should teachers and education workers not be able to expect at least the same standards and precautionary measures as have been put in place in stores, offices, and other spaces across the province?”
The unions are looking to the Ministry of Labour to issue orders to the Ministry of Education to set standards around physical distancing, cohorting, ventilation, and transportation.
“The anxiety Ontarians are feeling around reopening schools is directly related to the government’s lack of leadership and their haphazard, incomplete planning,” said OECTA President Liz Stuart. “The Premier and the Minister of Education say they will do everything possible to make sure schools are safe. All we are asking is that they make an honest, exhaustive effort to follow through on this promise.”
The unions have not heard back from the Ministry of Labour since August 28, 2020.