Ontario English Catholic Teachers Demand Safe Schools

By Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative

The Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association (OECTA) has launched Safe Schools Now, a new campaign calling on the Ford government to invest in and implement safety measures recommended by the Ontario Science Table.

“Despite having more than 18 months to develop a plan to address COVID-19 in our schools and make the investments necessary for a safe learning environment, the Ford government has refused to act, threatening in-person learning,” says OECTA President Barb Dobrowolski.  They are also calling for the implementation of recommendations from the Ontario Science Table and SickKids hospital.

The Financial $12 billion in cuts forecast over the next decade according to the Financial Accountability Office (FAO).

The group is asking for the following recommendations:

• a mandatory vaccination program in schools;
• mandatory masking for all teachers, education workers, students, and visitors in schools;
• smaller class sizes to allow for proper physical distancing;
• improved ventilation, with public air quality measurements and transparency, so we know if safety standards in schools are being met;
• COVID-19 outbreak management, including robust testing and tracing;
• investments to address student learning loss and mental health concerns; and
• improved vaccination education, outreach, and accessibility.

“Catholic teachers are inviting all educators, parents, and Ontarians to join us in calling on this government to act and invest in a safe and sustainable school year,” Dobrowolski said.

To learn more about the campaign visit the Safe Schools website.