TORONTO, Dec. 17, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- “These programs respond to priorities that have been identified by teachers, parents, and students across the province,” says Liz Stuart, President of OECTA. “Mental health supports, Indigenous education initiatives, and anti-poverty programs are integral to the publicly funded education system’s commitment to equity and inclusion, and we know that many of these programs were working well. There is no doubt that these cuts will negatively affect students and classrooms, especially given the government’s decision to implement them midway through the school year.”
The move sends a worrying signal about the government’s approach to education. The government has just completed a consultation on education programs and funding, but the cuts were quietly announced before it was even closed. “It is unfortunate that the government did not take the time to properly consult with teachers and others in the education community, who could have told them the impact these cuts are bound to have on student well-being and achievement,” says Stuart. “Publicly funded education is one of the best investments we can make. Our Association strongly urges the government to reconsider this decision, and to work with teachers to ensure that schools have the resources they need.”
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OECTA represents the almost 45,000 professionals who teach all grades in publicly funded English Catholic schools in Ontario.