Member Information on the List

Please take note of the following Articles under the Collective Agreement regarding Personal Information:

6.03  The Membership List shall provide the following information for each Occasional Teacher: full name, telephone number and address, subjects/divisions/grades that the Occasional Teacher is qualified to teach.
and
6.05   An Occasional Teacher shall notify the Human Resource Services Department, in writing, of any changes of name, address and/or telephone number required by the Board to contact the Occasional Teacher.  The Board shall provide a copy to the Local.

Not providing current residential/ contact information is grounds for dismissal.

We continue to receive mail from Canada Post informing us that members have moved after we have mailed information or cannot call members as telephone numbers are no longer in service.  Please ensure your personal information  is up to date by checking the Employee Portal under "Your Personal Information".

If your information has changed, it is important that you ensure that your address is correct with the following agencies as well:

• College of Teachers
• Your Apply to Education Account (if applicable)
• ETFO Provincial under Member Information at Being a Member at www.etfo.ca

This will be the last BLOG for 2013 however look for an on-line edition of the "Supply Line" newsletter to be posted during the holidays. Your Local OT Office will close Friday, December 20th and reopen the first day of school in January.  We will monitor email communications but in case of an emergency, please call the Provincial ETFO office at 1-888-838-3836.

On behalf of your President, the Local Executive and the staff at the ETFO - Thames Valley Occasional Teachers' Local, we would like to wish you a Happy and Safe Holiday in whichever way you will be spending it and we look forward to a busy and fulfilling 2014!

  

Together Fairness Works

Around the world, unions are under attack. The Stephen Harper Conservatives and Ontario's Tim Hudak Conservatives speak freely about introducing "Right to Work" legislation.  
As Dr. Martin Luther King said, "We must guard against being fooled by false slogans such as 'right to work'.  It is a law to rob us of our civil rights and job rights... Its purpose is to destroy labor unions and the freedom of collective bargaining by which unions have improved wages and working conditions of everyone... Wherever these laws have been passed, wages are lower, job opportunities are fewer and there are no civil rights."

Much of the public does not recognize the contributions unions have made to our Canadian society.  Even our members may not realize that many of the policies that make our country great, were first won by unions and then extended to everyone: pensions, health and safety in the workplace, minimum wages, public health care etc.

The Canadian Labour Congress wants to engage members in this story and to take these conversations to the public. Check out their website, share the links and start the conversation.  What we want is fair and just for all.

www.canadianlabour.ca/action-centre/together-fairness-works

Privacy and December 20th

Adopted from article by Scott, Graham F. "Student Privacy and You".  Professionally Speaking March 2008

The Education Act, the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA) and the Personal Health Information Protection Act, all mandate that unless explicit consent is given personal information must not be disclosed.  Personal information includes names, addresses, ethnic background, employment or criminal history, financial dealings and health records.

Under the Education Act, school boards may collect a lot of personal information about students when they register.  A prime example of this is the Ontario Student Record (OSR) which includes the name, student number, address, phone number, gender, birthdate, any enrolment and transfer dates, names of parents and guardians or both, emergency contact numbers, previous report cards and an official student transcript for each student.  By law, information from the OSR must be kept strictly confidential by school boards and can only be used by Teachers "for improvement of instruction".  Parents can sue a Teacher for breaching their child's privacy.  MFIPPA allows for fines of up to $5,000, regardless of whether or not the act was intentional.

Teachers take notes about students in class, receive permission slips with parents' names and phone numbers and often have access to e-mail addresses.  Yearbooks and school newsletters often contain names and photos of students.  All of this is technically personal information that cannot be collected, posted or shared without permission from parents/guardians.  Again, information can only be shared "for improvement of instruction" and must never be the source of gossip.

Store all personal information securely.  Lock up hard copies and keep electronic documents on a password-protected computer.  A tidy desk may help prevent sensitive information being misplaced or stolen.  Collect only as much personal information as you need to do your job and when you no longer need the personal information, be sure to shred paper documents or securely erase electronic ones.

With regards to the December 20th PD day, unlike Permanent Teachers who lost 2 days of work, Occasional Teachers in a Long Term Assignment are expected to be at school or register for one of the PD opportunities on the Employee Portal and you will be paid according to your FTE.

Welcoming & Supporting Classrooms

Building Communication and Trust
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual,  and Transgender Families (LGBT) families are the fastest growing type of family structure in Canada.  Research states students perform better academically and socially when they see themselves reflected in the school environment and curriculum.  As educators we have the responsibility to build effective communication and trust with all of our students and their parents.

Environment : It is important for students to see themselves reflected in their school environment. 
1. Display positive space posters that indicate a respectful and harassment free school.
2. Display posters or art work that reflect all types of families.

Communication: Foster positive communication and trust with LGBT families.
1. Ask open ended questions to find out about families.
2. Encourage families to be a part of school councils and school activities.

Language: With all verbal and written forms of communication use inclusive language to not assume that students have heterosexual families.
1.  Use the terms partner, families, or guardians to include LGBT families and sentences such as:
"Tell me about your family."
"What are the names your child uses to refer to family members?"
"Do you have any resources and materials you are willing to share?"
"Thank you for dropping by, I enjoyed meeting your mom and her partner."
"I look forward to meeting with you and your family tomorrow."
"Don't forget to get your guardian to sign the trip form."

Curriculum Links: Make connections to the curriculum so all students feel validated and engaged.
1. Use LGBT books, media, pictures as part of your everyday curriculum.
2. Include the terms gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender when describing various families.
3. Use teachable  moments to address homophobia or transphobia.

Resources: 
ETFO - LGBT Resources

• Take Action Kit
• Positive Space brochure
• Imagine a world that is Free from Fear
• Social Justice Begins with Me

Websites

• www.welcomingschools.org
• www.pflag.ca
• www.mygsa.ca
• www.pridetoronto.com
• www.lgbtparentingconnection.ca
• www.519.org

Celebrations & Traditions
All families should be honoured and recognized in our classroom.

Family Day (February)
1.  Celebrate all types of families.
2.  Give students an opportunity to talk about their families.
3.  Invite LGBT families to share their traditions.

Mothers' and Fathers' Day
1. Have a class discussion about important women/men who care for you.
2. Alternative names could include 'Love Day' or "GAMES Day' (Grandmothers, aunts, moms, even sisters).
3. If there are two moms or two dads, let the student make the choice of making one or two cards.

Reprinted from ETFO pamphlet: Welcoming and Supporting LGBT Families

Fall General Meeting and Mortgage Shredding Celebration- Proud Moment for ETFO - Thames Valley Occasional Teachers' Local

Over 125 attendees were present at the 2013 Fall General Meeting and Mortgage Shredding event held at the BestWestern Lamplighter Inn last Wednesday evening.  We were very pleased to host so many of our members that evening.  The ballroom was decorated particularly festive with the onset of the Holiday Season.  Guests arrived to the upbeat music provided by the band: "Tribute".
As usual, the dinner was delicious and guests and members alike enjoyed the warm and celebratory setting to meet and talk with their peers and Local Executive.  A highlight of the evening was the actual shredding of the mortgage.  Our President Terry Card ran the mortgage document through a shredder in front of all those in attendance.  We should all be very proud of this accomplishment, not many Locals can say they own the building they work out of.  Congratulations to each and everyone of us!

Thank you to everyone who brought along clothes and toys for donation to Merrymount Children's Centre. Sue Barnes; Program Manager at Merrymount was clearly very grateful on behalf of the children who were going to benefit from these gifts.

We have a Vacancy on the Executive for the position of Executive at Large.  This is a wonderful opportunity for interested members to be a part of the decision making and experience first hand, the "ins and outs" of this very professional group.  If you or anyone you know is interested in joining the Executive, a Nomination Form can be found and downloaded on our website for submission by December 1st, 2013 at 4:00 PM. Alternatively, forms are available at the office at 521 Nottinghill Road, Suite 8, in London, N6K 4L4.
Please call before stopping by to ensure someone is in the office.

Update on Local's LTO Group Interview Grievance

The Arbitrator had set aside October 11 and November 1 for our case but to get any further dates would take us well into 2014.  After spending the better part of both days arguing the case, we needed to come to a resolution so that members could finally get access to posted long-term assignments.

In the end the Board agreed that:

All of the unsuccessful candidates in the top 500 on the seniority list but no more than 80 people shall be individually interviewed by a panel of Principals before December 16th.  None of the information from the group interviews will be considered in this process and the Board will act in good faith. Candidates who are successful in this individual interview will be placed on the LTO List according to their seniority.

The Board and the Union haggled about the number but given that: i) there are still a few hundred people on the LTO List, ii) on average only 50 LTOs are posted between January and the end of the school year and iii) the large part seniority plays in hiring LTOs under Regulation 274, the lawyers and the Union felt this was the best resolution we could achieve within the time constraint.

Be assured that the Union will do all it can to ensure a more equitable process for the next round of LTO List interviews in the Spring.

ETFO Awards and Scholarships

The ETFO awards program recognizes distinguished academic achievements, and outstanding contributions to education and the federation by its members and others.  Over one hundred thousand dollars is distributed annually to member and community groups through the Awards Program.  Occasional Teachers are eligible.

February 1 is the deadline to apply for the following:

Anti-Bias Award;  Arts and Culture Award: Children's Literature Award; Curriculum Development Award; Health and Safety Activist Award; Honorary Life Membership; Humanitarian Award for an ETFO Member and for a non-ETFO Member; Member Service and Engagement Award; New Member Award; Outstanding Role Model for Women Award; Rainbow Visions Award; Women Acting in Social Activism on behalf of Women and Children Award; Women who develop Special Projects in Science and Technology Award; Writer's Awards.

For Further information and application forms: visit the ETFO website:  www.etfo.ca> About ETFO>Awardsand Scholarships
 


  
    

It's Time to Celebrate our Accomplishments

The day of our Fall General Meeting has arrived and the weather seems to be cooperating - so far - to allow for safe travel!

We are very excited to welcome over 130 guests later this afternoon at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn and enjoy some socializing, delicious food and celebrate our Mortgage Shredding!  It is quite the accomplishment, one that we should all be very proud to have achieved.

Members who have never been to one of our meetings have asked what to expect and what to wear.  Our response has always been; this is a professional meeting and although we are celebrating a unified accomplishment, dress should be business casual.  Sweat pants, yoga pants are not appropriate attire for such meetings.  "Dress for the job you want!"

Others have asked about the articles of clothing or toys to bring for Merrymount Children's Centre. New items are preferred as these will be given to vulnerable children in crisis.  Worn clothing and toys that are no longer in use at our homes are not to be donated for this purpose.

We look forward to seeing you all there!
 
 

Bill 122, the School Boards Collective Bargaining Act, 2013

 On October 22, the Minister of Education introduced provincial bargaining legislation in the Ontario Legislature.  The legislation, called the School Boards Collective Bargaining Act, 2013, is also referred to as Bill 122 and we encourage members to check www.etfotvot.com under "Member Services" and "Notices" for more information on how this may affect future rounds of collective bargaining.

LTO's: CARE DAYS (Article 9.04) and ACT OF NATURE DAYS (Article 9.05)
Long-term Occasional Teachers who are absent from work in order to provide health- related care to a family member or because of inclement weather, will no longer have those absences deducted from their sick bank.  LTOs who use a Care Day or Act of Nature Day as outlined in the collective or employee agreement will be paid as if they are at work to a combined maximum of five days.
The Board is very emphatic that Care Days (Article 9.04) can be used only for the health-related care of a child, parent or spouse.  Care Days cannot be used to look after a child who is not ill or attending a health-related appointment.
Acts of Nature Days (Article 9.05) are provided to assist those who are unable to report to work as a result of existing poor weather or road conditions.  LTOs are expected to attempt to get to work if weather or road conditions allow for safe travel.  N.B. weather conditions at the time of your departure for work should be the determining factor - not conditions that may occur later in the day.

Lastly, don't forget time is running out to register for our Fall General  Meeting and Mortgage Shredding Party!  All members are invited to attend this celebratory event which is taking place at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn in London, on November 13, 2013, from 4:30 - 7:30 PM.  Donations of toys or clothing for Merrymount Children's Centre would be gratefully accepted.
Further details and registration at www.etfotvot.com.

LTO Grievance; LTO pay for holidays; LTOs and unpaid days

LTO Grievance update -
We've been receiving numerous calls regarding where things stand on the Local's grievance regarding the LTO Interview process.  The Board and the Union have met with an arbitrator on October 11th to see if a resolution could be reached. Since that was not possible, we will meet again at the end of this week and our legal counsel will begin presenting our case.
This is a very long process and may take months to resolve. Be assured we are working diligently on your behalf and we are hopeful for an amenable solution for all concerned.  Any new developments will be posted immediately to our TWITTER@etfotvot account and our website which is mobile ready and works on iPads and other computing tablets as well as all smartphones.
Pay for Thanksgiving -
Both permanent Teachers and LTOs are exempt for pay for statutory holidays under the Employment Standards Act.  A LTO receives the same pay as a permanent Teacher with the same years of experience and qualifications would receive, except instead of waiting 12 months to be receive the annual salary, the LTO has their pay divided into 194 teaching days.
Unpaid Days and LTOs -
While December 20th will be an unpaid day for permanent Teachers, LTOs will not lose a days pay but are expected to attend school and will be paid for that day though at this time, I do not know how that day will be filled.
Last but not least - 
Continue to be involved.  Keep informed.  Stay in touch via the Local's website:  www.etfotvot.com.  Attend the upcoming Fall General Meeting on November 13, 2013 at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn and mingle with your peers.  Reports will be presented by Executive Members giving you the opportunity to get answers to questions you may have. Registration for this event must be completed on the Local's website once you have created an account as the sight has a secured area for our members.
As always we ask that you contact the office should you have any questions or require any information.



 
  

Do's and Don'ts

From CYBERTIPS for Teachers by: CTF (Canadian Teachers' Federation)

The use of technology has increased dramatically in recent years, but the standards of professionalism have not changed.  Remember, nothing is truly private when you communicate digitally.  When you use school board equipment and networks, your employer has access to all your messages and any sites you have browsed.

Know Your Rights and Responsibilities

Activities that can result in disciplinary action against a teacher:

• Engaging in personal email exchange with students.
• Engaging in inappropriate conversations about fellow colleagues through email or social networking sites.
• Criticizing principals, teachers, superintendents, school trustees or school boards - personally or professionally - online.
• Sharing confidential school board information through the board email system or a social networking site.
• Visiting inappropriate websites.
• Sending or forwarding offensive jokes and pictures via email.
• Downloading audio, video or text-based materials in violation of copyright laws.
• Using the employer's equipment to engage in activities related to a second occupation.
• Constant text messaging and/or emailing during school time.
• Web browsing to sites not related to the curriculum.
• Posting pictures of yourself, especially if they are suggestive or inappropriate.
• Posting comments about students, parents, colleagues or administration.

TVOT Website: Don't forget to create your account so you can access our TVOT Local Website.  Accounts are being activated on a daily basis as they are being created.  Go to www.etfotvot.com to get started.  Registration is open for our celebratory Fall General Meeting and Mortgage Shredding Event at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn on November 13, 2013.  It is accessible via the website under Member Services, and Events.  As always, don't hesitate to contact the office should you have any questions or require any assistance in creating your account.

It's Gonna Be A PARTY!!!!

We are very excited for our Fall General Meeting and Banquet this year as we have a huge reason to celebrate.  Along with the accomplishments of our members and their continued professionalism and dedication in providing seamless replacement of permanent Teachers in the elementary schools of the Thames Valley District School Board, your President Terry Card and Executive are very pleased to announce our Mortgage burning event.  Due to sound financial and business decisions, Suite 8 at 521 Nottinghill Road in London is an asset of your Local.
Don't forget to register for this exciting event on our Local's website: www.etfotvot.com.  You will have to first, create an account on the website in order to do so.  As always, if you have any questions on creating your account, don't hesitate to contact the office at 519-641-3936.
We ask those who attend to please consider bringing along a children's item to donate that evening to the Merrymount Family Support and Crisis Centre, which cares for children up to 13 years of age and needs:

• Warm pyjamas, socks
• Underwear, all sizes
• Shoes
• Pants, shirts and sweatshirts
• New books
• Gift cards
• Movie passes
• New toys for birthdays, holidays
• Non perishable food items
• Art and craft supplies
• Toothbrushes and toothpaste

October Newsletter
The on-line Newsletter for October has been delayed by 10 days because we have had the opportunity to provide a printed copy to you which is currently being prepared for mailing to the membership.

Fall General Meeting & Mortgage Shredding Party

Save the Date:  Wednesday, November 13, 2013,  Best Western Lamplighter Inn in London, from 4:30 - 7:30 PM.

All members invited to attend.  The evening will provide, entertainment, free dinner and door prizes for our members.  Further details and registration at www.etfotvot.com.  Don't forget to create your account on our new TVOT Local Website first.

We are pleased with the response we are receiving from our new members and still have some spots left for our meeting where we can discuss and hear your views as to what challenges you are facing so we can advocate on your behalf with the Board, the provincial federation and your colleagues.  If you would like to be part of this project, please email us at mail@etfotvot.com indicating how many years you have been teaching.  We will close registration at the end of this week and advise all participants of the date early next week. The meeting will be scheduled after school at the ETFO Thames Valley Occasional Teacher Office at 521 Nottinghill Road in South London.

The Elementary Teachers' Federation of Ontario has set up a new Occasional Teachers Website.  You will be able to access the website through our Local website under Member Services and then Provincial Links.  Alternatively, you can go to: http://www.etfo-ots.ca.


 

Teachers' New Copyright Guidelines

Important news for all Educators
Copyright in schools has changed!  Teachers and students now have new rights and obligations under copyright law.  Know that if you infringe copyright, you, your school, and your school board can be held responsible by the copyright owner for damages.

The guidelines below describe the activities that are permitted under fair dealing in non-profit K-12 schools and provide reasonable safeguards for the owners of copyright-protected works in accordance with the Canadian Copyright Act and decisions of the Supreme Court.

FAIR DEALING GUIDELINES

1. Teachers, instructors, professors, and staff members in non-profit educational institutions may communicate and reproduce, in paper or electronic form, short excerpts from a copyright-protected work for the purposes of research, private study, criticism, review, news reporting, education, satire and parody.

2. Copying or communicating short excerpts from a copyright-protected work under these Fair Dealing Guidelines for the purpose of news reporting, criticism, or review should mention the source and, if given in the source, the name of the author or creator of the work.

3.  A single copy of a short excerpt from a copyright-protected work may be provided or communicated to each student enrolled in a class or course:
 a.  as a class handout;
 b.  as a posting to a learning or course-management system that is password protected or otherwise          restricted to students of a school or post-secondary educational institution;
 c.  as part of a course pack.

4. A short excerpt means:
  a.  up to 10- per cent of a copyright-protected work (including a literary work, musical score, sound      recording, and an audiovisual work);
  b.  one chapter from a book;
  c.  a single article from a periodical;
  d.  an entire artistic work (including a painting, print, photograph, diagram, drawing, map, chart, and plan)    from a copyright-protected work containing other artistic works;
  e.  an entire newspaper article or page;
  f.   an entire single poem or musical score from a copyright-protected work containing other poems or musical scores;
  g.  an entire entry from an encyclopedia, annotated bibliography, dictionary, or similar reference work.

5. Copying or communicating multiple short excerpts from the same copyright-protected work with the intention of copying or communicating substantially the entire work is prohibited.

6. Copying or communicating that exceeds the limits in these Fair Dealing Guidelines may be referred to a supervisor or other person designated by the educational institution for evaluation.  An evaluation of whether the proposed copying or communication is permitted under fair dealing will be made based on all relevant circumstances.

7. Any fee charged by the educational institution for communicating or copying a short excerpt from a copyright-protected work must be intended to cover only the costs of the institution,  including overhead costs.

A copyright presentation especially developed for Teachers can be seen at  www.cmec.ca/copyrightinfo

 Welcome to Our New Website www.etfotvot.com
By now, most of you should have received your September 2013 issue of The Supply Line along with your pocket calendar.  We are very pleased to have been able to get these invaluable communication and professional development tools out to you.  It is very important that you read and might we suggest, hold on to this issue of The Supply Line so you can refer back to it for pertinent details.
On page 2 of the newsletter, is an announcement regarding our New TVOT Local Website.  This website will present both public web pages and a new secure members' site. To access the private, secure portion of the site, members will first have to apply using a personal email address (not a TVDSB First Class email). The site will also permit members to register for events on the secure members' only portion.
To apply, click on "Member Services" and then on "Create a New Account".  Follow the prompts.  When you have saved your information.  We will receive the request at the office and activate your account given all required information is submitted.  You will then be able to register for events, i.e. the Fall General Meeting on November 13, 2013 etc.  The site is Smartphone friendly as well.
If anyone is having difficulties logging in to the new website, do not hesitate to call the office at 519-641-3936 and assistance will be provided.

Week Two Already...

Provincial Occasional Teacher Conference -
First Vice-President Nancy Springer and President Terry Card had the honour of representing the interest of our members in Thunder Bay from Sept 8-10th.  Though many other issues were discussed and positions developed, the major concern of all OT Locals in Ontario remains the implementation of the hiring process imposed by Regulation 274. In the Memorandum of Settlement signed by ETFO in June, there is agreement that the Union and government will set up a committee to examine issues around the regulation and those in attendance at the conference worked hard to ensure that relevant feedback and data would be in the hands of our representatives at that table.

Labour Management -

Members may not be aware that the Local meets with Human Resources at the Board on a monthly basis to discuss matters which require more than a phone call or quick visit to resolve. As stated in Article 1.02 of our Collective Agreement: "It is the desire of the Parties to maintain a harmonious relationship between the Board and each Occasional Teacher covered under the Agreement." We welcome the opportunity to bring forward the issues and concerns of our members so please do not hesitate to contact the Local for assistance.

Pocket Calendars -

We are again pleased to offer each member a pocket calendar with information relevant to TVOT needs.  These are currently at our printer, Zippy Print and will be mailed out with the Fall newsletter towards the end of the month when the Board provides us with our membership data. NB: September 2013 was included in last year's edition to bridge the gap.

ETFO Kindergarten Specialist AQ Course -

ETFO is very excited this fall to be offering the Kindergarten Specialist Additional Qualification Course in Thames Valley - a blended model of face to face learning time with instructor Rose Walton plus online learning time done independently by each course participant.

Location: TVDSB Ed Centre, 1250 Dundas Street, London

When: 5:30 - 9:30 PM Wednesdays Sept 25, Oct 2, Oct 9, Oct 16, Oct 23, Oct 30, Nov 6, Nov 13, Nov 29, Nov 27 and 8:30 - 5:00 PM Saturdays Sept 28, Oct 26, Nov 9

Registration: www.etfo-aq.ca by Wednesday, September 18, 2013

Fee: $650

Voluntary Unpaid Leave of Absence Program (VLAP) for LTOs -

• LTOs may apply to the Board for up to 5 unpaid leave of absence days for personal reasons in 2013-2014.  Participation in VLAP is voluntary. LTOs may choose to take 1 unpaid day or up to 5 unpaid days (either individually or consecutively).
• VLAP days may not occur during the first week of school, during student assessment periods and parent reporting days.
• If LTOs apply for VLAP in writing before Sept 15th, the Board can spread the loss of pay over the the entire school year.  Otherwise the lost pay will be deducted on the applicable pay. There is no deadline to apply but the Board has requested one week's advance notice.  VLAP forms are available from the Principal.
• LTOs taking a VLAP day are required to provide appropriate work for each of their classes and other regular teaching and assessment responsibilities including responsibility for report cards.
• For pension purposes, Boards will report VLAP days as approved leaves, eligible to be purchased by LTOs.  After the leave(s), you are advised to contact OTPP directly to arrange to purchase credit for the leave: 1-800-668-+0105/416-226-2700 or got to iAccess on the OTPP website. Otherwise LTOs will lose service credit for that day. 

Welcome Back to Reg. 274

Even in September, it seems no Occasional Teacher conversation is exempt from discussions regarding Regulation 274 and the confusion it has caused among the membership, the Principals, and Boards of Education across Ontario. It certainly was paramount when Occasional Teacher presidents met at the provincial OT Conference in June, and it will be at the forefront when we meet again Sunday to Wednesday of next week.  President Sam Hammond has given his word that the province will assist Locals in dealing with this "chaos" and as stipulated by the ETFO Memorandum of Understanding, a committee with the government and ETFO representation is to be struck to work this out.
The government's intention  was to make hiring accountable and transparent which is laudable for we have all witnessed arbitrary hiring practices. However, this is an unwieldy process for Boards the size of Thames Valley and all parties acknowledge that there have been oversights and errors. The Union need first-hand anecdotes to take to our monthly Labour Management meetings so that we can identify and resolve as many of these difficulties as possible. Also know that the Union has filed a grievance regarding the group interview process and our first hearing is scheduled for October 11, 2013.

We hope the following will provide some clarification but do not hesitate to contact us with your questions:

Subsets of the Membership per Regulation 274

OT Roster (seniority list)

- All members on the OT List are ranked according to accumulated teaching days with the Board as an elementary Occasional Teacher only.

t

LTO List

- Those who successfully interviewed for a posted LTO position in 2012-2013, 2011-2012 or who were successful in the group interviews; and had worked as an elementary OT for the Board for 10 months as of March 1, 2013 and had taught a minimum of 20 days are included.

t

LTO List for permanent hire

- Includes those from the LTO List who had successfully completed a long-term assignment of 4 months or longer (no evaluation requirement since that process is still being developed) and who are not part-time permanent Teachers (the opportunity to increase their FTE is governed by the TVTL permanent Teacher Collective Agreement).

• The original OT Roster (seniority list) was revised after consideration of additional information provided by the membership last spring. The revised OT Roster was posted at the end of July, but does not take into account days worked from March 1, 2013 to the end of the school year.  The Union will be advocating that this adjustment take place as soon as possible.
• The LTO List that was also posted at the end of July is different from the LTO List for permanent positions because of the factors listed in the above chart.

End of Year Blog

We can all agree this has been a year as no other and it continues to be a very fluid time in our profession.

It is very important that we continue to keep calm heads and maintain communication with those who can provide support. Let's not forget, we are professionals and our role to educate and provide a safe and positive environment for the students we are entrusted to teach cannot be forgotten.  Take pride in knowing you can and do make a difference.

Many of you have learned to monitor and keep on top of ever changing procedures and have realized that educating yourselves and a little advance preparation are keys to success.  Your Union will continue to represent each one of you and we will continue to provide information to you in as timely a manner as possible. Our Newsletters, Pocket-Calendars, Blogs, and Twitter modes of communication are a constant source of information and we strongly encourage you to fully read the contents. As well, we encourage you to register for updates on our revamped website to be unveiled this fall.  This information along with notices on First Class provided by Thames Valley District School Board are YOUR information resources.  This is your career, don't skim over items that provide important information especially if action is to be taken by yourselves with due dates.

Information for EI Applications:

• For EI purposes only, the Board reports a Full Day of work as 7 hours
• Your Local has no number, it is ETFO Thames Valley OT Local      

The ETFO OT Office is not funded during the summer, (July and August) and will be closed.  We will however check emails on a weekly basis. Please remember to use the etfotvot@gmail.com email address. (The  tvotpd@gmail.com address is for registrations only and will not be checked.)

In the event of an emergency, please call/contact Provincial ETFO at 1-888-838-3836/www.etfo.ca for assistance.

On behalf of Terry Card, your Executive and Debbie Laxer who so capably runs the office, we wish you a relaxing and safe summer and we look forward to seeing you in September.

    

URGENT - ETFO Telephone Town Hall Meeting and All Member Vote

A series of one hour telephone town hall meetings about the ETFO Memorandum of Understanding will be held across Ontario this week.  Our regional meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, June 18th from 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM. These meetings are for ETFO members only and there will be an opportunity at that time for member's to ask questions about this proposal.
An audio file of the first of these meetings will be posted on the voting site, accessible from www.etfo.ca . Voting will be open to members from 7:30 PM on Monday, June 17th until Sunday, June 23rd at 6 PM.


In order to vote, ETFO members must have their ETFO number (from the red apple card).  Call 1-877-869-8233 for assistance if you have misplaced this membership number.
Additional information is available at ETFO's www.controlyourfuture.ca

The LTO List; 2012 -2013 OTE Mandatory Training; Updates

The LTO List
The Local has been made aware that most of those members who were interviewed for the TVDSB LTO List were not successful.  Our ETFO lawyer has asked us to collect some additional information so we urge all unsuccessful OTs to email the Local at etfotvot@gmail.com so that we can begin advocating on your behalf.

Mandatory Online Training
The following is a list of the mandatory online training modules required for OTs to complete by June 28, 2013:

1. Module 2 - Handling a Violent Situation(s)
2. Module 3 -  Post Incident Review and Documentation
3. Module 4 -  Safe Schools and Employee Roles
4. Module 6 - Work Refusal
5. Module 7 - Management of Aggressive Behaviour
6. Module 12 - Workplace Design
7. Module 13 - Recognizing and Coping with Aggressive Behaviour in a School Setting
8. Attending A TVDSB Site
9. Routine Practices
10. Anaphylaxis (Spotlight)

Don't forget to scroll down and click "Submit"when done a module. A red confirmation sentence will appear and the check mark will remain in the corresponding boxes of completed modules next time you log in.  We suggest taking a print-out of the page as a back up, signing out and logging back in to ensure the check marks remain.

SMARTboard Training
Congratulations to all those who have registered for our beginner and advanced sessions of workshops at Woodland Heights and thank you Kevin O'Neill for providing our members with this technological assistance.

Updates
You may be aware that ETFO has continued negotiating with the provincial government these past few months. Since our revamped website will not be available until September, we advise members to check this Blog for updates as they become available.

New! SMARTBOARD PD Workshops and more PD OPPORTUNITIES

Thames Valley Occasional Teachers' Local proudly presents two Smartboard workshops:
Where: Both workshops will take place at Woodland Heights P.S. with a light dinner provided
When: Beginner workshop: Wednesday, June 12th, 2013 at 4:30pm
            Advanced Workshop: Thursday, June 13th, 2013 at 4:30pm

1)  Wednesday June 12th, 2013 -  Smartboard for Absolute Beginners:
Learn all about the basics of using a Smartboard and its software in your daily (and LTO) assignments. This will be a stress-free workshop that will allow you to explore the fundamentals. No experience necessary!

2) Thursday, June 13th, 2013 -  Smartboard for Intermediate/Advanced Users: 
If you've mastered the basics of Smartboard technology and software, and wish to take your learning to the next level, then this workshop is for you!

To register, please e-mail us tvotpd@gmail.com ASAP. Space is given on a first come/first served basis.
**Please also indicate if you have a laptop with wireless capability that you can bring to the session (not mandatory).**


SUMMER PD OPPORTUNITIES

1. ETFO Summer Academy:
Check the ETFO website; www.etfo.ca, to select one of more than 45 Professional Learning            Courses offered throughout the Province in July and August.

2. TVDSB Summer Learning Conference:
Registration opens June 10th on the Employee Portal > Program tab > Summer Learning Conference on the left hand menu, for sessions offered August 12 - August 23, 2013.

3.  ETFO Credit Courses:
Check the ETFO website; www.etfocreditcourses.ca .  Each course is recognized by QECO as a 1/2 University credit.  Cost is $475.00/course.
On-line sessions:  June 15 - July 20
On site sessions:   Throughout June, July, August.

Important reminders and Welcome to the 2013-2014 Executive!

All those members who are interested in registering for the June 7th PD conference at Althouse College are advised to do so ASAP.  Registration will be closed in a few days.  Contact Staff Development at the Board for further information.

September LTO postings may be delayed until the week of August 11th, 2013 as the Board works through the interviews for the LTO List. Invitations for LTO interviews are still being offered by the Board so don't worry if you haven't had yours yet.  Continue to check on First Class and remember to RSVP!

Evaluation Forms for LTOs to get permanent jobs will not be required as they have yet to be developed.

Last Thursday, we held our Spring General Meeting and Elections at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn.  Parliamentarian Jason Schwartz did an outstanding job ensuring the evening progressed in a timely manner covering all items on the agenda.  As usual the dinner provided by the chefs at the Lamplighter was delicious.

Presentations were made by various members of the Executive reporting on the year's standings and where we are heading to all those present.  We would like to take this time to thank all members of the Executive of the 2012-2013 year for their commitment and support.

Your newly elected Executive for the upcoming school year are:

President - Terry Card
1st Vice President  - Nancy Springer
2nd Vice President - Sheri-Lynn Honyust
Secretary - Gina Droppo
Treasurer - Mary-Anne Drocic
Health & Safety Officer - Carrie Heiter
Executive at Large - Kenish Choo-Yick
Executive at Large - Nicole Henderson
Executive at Large - Donna Leonard

Collective Bargaining Committee
Chief Negotiator - Terry Card
CB Team - Kenisha Choo-Yick, Janice Monk, Sharon Pinylo, Trish Robertson, Nancy Springer

On behalf of the membership, thank you for taking on this responsibility and representing the Local in a professional manner.

SAVE THE DATE:   NOVEMBER 28, 2013 !!!!!      Details to follow in September!
 

LTO Interviews and 2013 Spring General Meeting and Elections

LTO Interviews:
Some members have already received an email on First Class with the time and date of their group interview for the LTO List.  With so many eligible members, these invitations to interview will continue into early June so be sure to regularly check your account and RSVP to confirm you will attend.
Remember, part-time permanent Teachers and those who were successfully interviewed for a LTO position this year or last year, will automatically be placed on the list.
The legislation is very clear that an OT must have been an elementary OT with the Board for at least 10 teaching months and have worked at least 20 days to be eligible.  Those who were in assignments that became unposted LTOs are eligible for interview if they have met the previous 2 criteria.
Annual Spring Meeting:
We are looking forward to seeing everyone who has registered for tomorrow evening's dinner and meeting including elections, being held at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn from 4:30 - 7:30 PM.   This is a very important meeting to attend as you will have a say in and be introduced to your new Executive.  The President's position is not up for election this year-
Book Rebates:
On another note, we have received several requests for Book Rebates this past week.  The membership voted to discontinue these at last year's Annual Meeting when it became apparent that we would face declining fees as a result of the loss of work that Bill 115 would cause.  Hopefully we will be able to restore this program in the future. 

Mandatory Training now Available and other Reminders

Mandatory online training: This year there are 10 modules to be completed by June 28, 2013.  Completion of these is mandatory to remain on the list and OTs will be paid a half-day salary for the time taken to do this training. The modules can be accessed via  the Employee Portal under Staff Development> Training/Mandatory Training.  Be sure to click on the circle beside each item (a check mark should appear) as you finish it,  then scroll to the bottom of the page and hit the SUBMIT button. A red sentence will appear at the top of your page indicating confirmation has been recorded.
Don't forget to register for the upcoming Spring General Meeting and Elections being held on May 23, 2013 at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn,  591 Wellington Road South in London, from 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM.
 R.S.V.P required for meal at tvotpd@gmail.com by May 17, 2013.  There is no cost to our members.
Doors will open at 4:30 and the Dinner Buffet will be served at 4:45 p.m.
We look forward to seeing many of you on the 23rd of May.

With regards to Maternity/ Pregnancy Leaves; when requesting your Leave, be sure to notify the Board of the type of leave so that you can continue to accrue experience for purposes of seniority on the OT Roster.

FAQ's re:Regulation 274; Spring General Meeting and Elections

About Regulation 274

Q – Can you tell me what date was used to assign seniority for the OT Roster?

A -The Board took a snapshot as of March 1, 2013 using the member’s most recent start date to the elementary OT list. This was the latest date they could use and still allow time for members to review the list before beginning interviews for the LTO list.

Q - If I was in a .5 LTO were my LTO days worked pro-rated to .5?

A - LTO assignments were pro-rated to avoid the double counting of days that were also worked as a daily OT.

Q - Do days worked on the secondary list or as a part-time permanent Teacher count as days worked for the OT Roster?

A - Not these are separate unions. They could count if needed as a tie breaker.

Q - Do my days worked as a home instruction Teacher, summer school Teacher, or Tutor count towards my days worked?

A - No, those are not days worked as a member of the elementary Occasional Teacher bargaining unit.

Q - Is it true that in order to apply to the LTO list an OT must have the equivalent of 10 months of LTO's?

A - To apply to the LTO list, you need to have worked as a TVDSB Occasional Teacher in that panel for 10 months (in daily or long-term assignments) and have worked for at least 20 OT days in total.

Q - Could you just confirm that the 20 supply days also takes into account LTO experience?

A - The 20 days worked can be either LTO days or daily OT days.

Q - I have been assignments that have become long-term. Will I be grandfathered to the list?

A - Only those who were successful in interviews for posted LTOs this school year or last school year, will automatically be on the LTO List so long as they have been an elementary OT for TVDSB for 10 months.

Q - Does the 10 months refer only to months when school is in session, or do summer months counted as well?

A - Summer months do not count.

Q - Why was I not made aware of these restrictions on applying for LTOs, when I was hired this fall?

A - Regulation  274 did not exist at that time.

Q - Will there be the same "top 5 in seniority" preference in selecting to the LTO list as well?

A - Seniority will not be a factor in the selection process for the LTO list. The Board has agreed to interview all elementary OTs who meet the eligibility criteria of Regulation 274.

  

Q  - Once I am on the LTO list do I have to reapply each year?

A - No, to be removed from the list you would need to have performance or discipline issues, retire, resign or land a 1.0 contract job.

Q - I heard there is a new performance appraisal system for LTOs?

A - This is currently in development for use in the 2013 – 2014 school year.

Spring General Meeting and Elections
Just a reminder that all Occasional Teachers are invited to attend and participate in our Annual General Meeting.  Elections will take place this year following an always delectable Buffet Dinner hosted by the Best Western Lamplighter Inn,  591 Wellington Road South in London, from 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM.

This year's meal includes the following:

Salads

California Baby Green Salad with Assorted Vinaigrettes

Caesar Salad tossed with a creamy Garlic Dressing and garnished with Parmesan Cheese

Potato Salad served with Pan Fried Pancetta and Smoked Cheese Croutons

Italian Pasta tumbled in Olive Oil Roasted Vegetables and Feta Cheese 

Mediterranean Greek Salad.

Antipasto

Crisp Vegetable Crudites with Herb Dip

Sliced European Deli Meats and Cheeses

A Savory Assortment of Breads, Flat breads and European Rolls.

Hot Selections

Fire Roasted Atlantic Salmon Fillet in a Chardonnay Sauce

Penne Pasta Primavera in a Tomato Sauce

Rice Medley of Seasonal Vegetables.

Selection of Desserts

An Array of Pastries, Cakes, Homemade Pies and Squares

Selection of Seasonal Sliced Fresh Fruit

Coffee, Tea and Soft Drinks.   

R.S.V.P. required for meal at tvotpd@gmail.com by May 17, 2013.
There is no cost to our Members.

Doors will open at 4:30 and the Dinner Buffet will be served at 4:45 p.m.

We look forward to seeing many of you on the 23rd of May.

Spring General Meeting and Elections

Thursday, May 23, 2013 from 4:30 - 7:30 PM at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn, 591 Wellington Road South, London, Ontario.  Dinner Buffet: 5:00PM  R.S.V.P. required for meal at tvotpd@gmail.com to register. 

Please use your personal email addresses since communication with the Union is not an approved use of the Board's First Class email system.

If you have not yet completed the annual canvas process, please do so by May 3, 2013.  The canvas process includes 3 components;
1. Statement of intent
2. WHMIS review
3. Offence declaration
You must complete all three components.  Once you have successfully completed the 3 components, an email will be sent to you confirming you have completed the canvas process.  It is recommended that you print the confirmation email.

The Spring edition of The Supply Line was mailed to all members last week.  Please let us know if you have not received your copy by the end of the week.  Also, please ensure your current address is correct by checking your 'Personal Information' in 1st Class.

For news about the Local, check us out on TWITTER@ etfotvot for emergent news and subscribe to our blog www.tvotblog.blogspot.com with news each Wednesday.

To contact your Local for event registration email the event planner at tvotpd@gmail.com.  Please direct all other inquiries to: etfotvot@gmail.com.






   

Running for the ETFO Thames Valley Occasional Teachers' Executive

WE NEED YOU!!!
Being a member of Executive is a rewarding learning opportunity in which you can make a difference!

Duties under our Constitution include:

Chief Negotiator - negotiates the collective Agreement; maintains agreement
President - official spokesperson and representative of Local; liaison and ex-officio member of all committees; signing officer; (2 year term for this position so no election until 2014)
First Vice-President - assists the President, coordinates preparation of the newsletter, attends committees
Second Vice-President - assists the President and First Vice-President and acts as liaison to the P.D. Committee
Treasurer - maintains financial records, pays expenses of the Local and reports to Executive and membership
Secretary - prepares and circulates accurate minutes of Executive and general meetings
Health and Safety Officer - acts as liaison with the Board's Joint Health and Safety Committee, the Local Executive and general membership; conducts annual audits of schools
Executive Members at Large (3) - duties as determined by the Executive

Look for opportunities throughout the year to serve on committees such as Professional Development, Outreach, and New Teachers.

All active members are eligible and encouraged to run - you will be compensated for your time!

Local Elections for 2013- 2014
Elections will be held May 23, 2013 at the Lamplighter Inn for the following positions -

President (two year term so no election until 2014)
First Vice-President           Second Vice-President
Secretary                            Treasurer
Health and Safety Officer
Executive Members at Large (3 members)
Chief Negotiator
Collective Bargaining Committee
(4 members; 5 if Pres and Negotiator are same person)

NOMINATIONS ARE DUE BEFORE MAY 3, 2013
Forms:     www.etfotvots.com
Mail to:    Local Elections Officer
                 ETFO Thames Valley Occasional Teachers' Local
                 521 Nottinghill Rd., Suite 8
                 London, Ontario   N6K 4L4
Email to:  etfotvot@gmail.com
Or fax to: (519) 641-6838

Once nominations close, check www.etfotvots.com for slate of candidates.
Members may not run from the floor unless no nomination for that position has been received.

Annual General Meeting and Elections
Thursday, May 23, 2013 from 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Best Western Lamplighter Inn
591 Wellington Road South
London, Ontario

Dinner Buffet:  5:00 p.m.

R.S.V.P. required for meal
tvotpd@gmail.com to register
Win one of our many door prizes.

REMINDER
To remain an elementary Occasional Teacher with TVDSB you must annually:

• Work at least five full days as a TVDSB elementary Occasional Teacher
• Pay your Ontario College of Teachers' fees by April 15th (fee deducted for those in LTO on January first)
• Complete your Offence Declaration online
• Complete all online training modules and WHMIS review
• Submit your online Statement of Intent to Remain on the List by April 30
• Inform the Board of any changes of name, address, and/or telephone number

2013 Spring General Banquet and Elections

May 23rd is the date of our Spring General Meeting and elections at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn from 4:30 pm - 7:30 pm.  A lovely dinner will be served at no cost to members and registration is now open at tvotpd@gmail.com or by telephone at 519-641-3936.  Confirmations will go out to those members registering, provided space is available.  We have had situations arise whereby members insist they have emailed registrations but have not received confirmations from us.  In these instances, we would ask that you re-send your request or call in to confirm receipt.
Nomination forms for election to the 2012 - 2013 Executive are available in the upcoming newsletter so consider this opportunity to serve the membership.

As with all our meetings these are well-attended, important membership events and it is in your best interests to inform yourselves about what is going on in these ever-changing times in education. It is also a chance to meet your peers and exchange information - occasional teaching can be very isolating.

TVDSB has opened registration for the June 7, 2013 paid PA day - all day conference at Althouse College, UWO.  ** Registration for this event is through the Employee Portal and space and these workshops are proving very popular so register soon.

EARTH DAY is April 22nd this year.  Earth Day was first established in 1970 and is recognized by countries around the world as well as by the United Nations.  There are wonderful resources available to you to educate and celebrate this day!

 

LESS THAN 12 WEEKS BEFORE THE END OF THE SCHOOL YEAR

One always thinks there will be lots of time to complete requirements for professional certification and deadlines but for most of us, procrastination sets in and albeit the best of intentions, we wind up scrambling last minute to get everything done.

Clutter, physical and emotional, is stressful.  One way to alleviate some is to break it down obligations in parts and set up a schedule where items can be completed.  Priorities must be made through organization.

Please review the items required to remain on the List as found on page 3 in your pocket calendars.  There is also additional relevant information you should be aware of.

We are ready for an exciting Professional Development Event taking place April 11th at the BMO Centre 295 Rectory St., in London from 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM.  As requested by our membership, our PD Committee has arranged the following 3 workshops:

1)  More Than A Play
2)  Beyond Dodgeball: Phys Ed Survival for the OT
3)  Teach Nutrition:  Primary

Resource Materials and hands-on experience will provide participants with that much more to add to their Resumes.

Terry Card, your President will address the participants before the sessions begin.

Registration is open for our Spring General Meeting taking place on May 23rd at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn from 4:30 PM- 7:30 PM.  Please register for this event to tvotpd@gmail.com or call 519-641-3936.  Dinner is included.

Don't forget about the all day designated PA event at Althouse College on June 7th this year.  Registration for this event and for opportunities for Paid Pd on April 19 are both available on the Employee Portal.



    

Reminders & ETFO Provincial CB release

Requirements -
It's that time of year- Income Tax Preparation is due by month-end and as Teachers, there are requirements you must meet to Remain on the List.  As with other professions that pay to renew their licences to practice, it is of the utmost importance that you ensure the following requirements are met:

• Pay College of Teachers' fee by April 15th.  (if an LTO assignment on January first, fees were automatically deducted by payroll)
• Complete online Statement of Intent to Remain on the List by April 30th > Employee Portal
• Teach at least five (5) full days in an elementary site
• Complete Annual Offence Declaration and WHMIS review on Employee Portal > Employee Portal
• Complete mandatory online training (not posted until May 15, 2013)
• Notify TVDSB of any changes to name, address and telephone number

Paid PD Days -  
Elementary Occasional Teachers are eligible for two days of paid PD during the 2012- 2013 school year, which must take place on system PA days

 * A 1/2 day of this paid PD is compulsory on the June 28, 2013 PA day, with mandatory online training in the employee portal (expectations of this 1/2 day will be communicated at a later date). These modules will not be available until May 15, 2013.

* 1 and 1/2 days of paid PD may include the following options:

1. April 19, 2013 PA day - portal workshops, job-embedded or self-directed PD at a school location.** Registration for this event is through the employee portal opened March 1, 2013**

                                                      OR

     2. June 7, 2013 PA day - all day conference at Althouse College UWO
** Registration for this event is through the employee portal and is open.  Spots are filling quickly.

* For job-embedded or self-directed PD, you must fax 2 items to System Staff Development (519-452-2692) in order to be paid once the PD is completed. - request form completed with an Administrator's signature and a completed reflection form (go to Portal>Human Resources>System Staff Development for forms)
* If on LTO assignment or partial contract on which a PA day occurs, you are expected at your school for which you will be paid your FTE .

ETFO Provincial has called all Presidents to a meeting today - See ETFO news release at the end of this post for more information.

Thames Valley Occasional Teachers' Local Presents:

What:  An Evening of Professional Development
Where:  BMO Centre, 295 Rectory St., (just south of York St.) London, Ontario
When:  Thursday, April 11th, 2013 from 4:30 - 7:30 PM
Dinner included
Free parking on-site.

As requested by our Membership, we are pleased to offer the following PD sessions:

More Than a Play
Here is your chance to participate in this wildly popular and engaging workshop.  More Than a Play has been created by Ontario educators to support critical thinking about issues of social justice and equity.  Each play delves into the complexities of eliminating intolerance and prejudice in our world, and is guaranteed to generate meaningful and engaging classroom discussions.
Each participant will receive a complimentary copy of the book, "More Than a Play"!

Teach Nutrition: Primary
In this much-requested workshop, participants will learn how to encourage healthful eating habits and skills in your students.  Each participant will receive, and learn to use a dynamic, cross-curricular and pedagogically sound resource toolkit provided by the Dairy Farmers of Ontario!  This seminar will be led by a Registered Dietitian.

Beyond Dodgeball:  Phys. Ed. Survival for the Occasional Teacher
Come prepared to participate in this hands-on workshop.  Learn new ideas, games and skills to handle your physical education assignments with ease! This workshop will be held on an indoor soccer pitch.  (Please wear running shoes - no outdoor cleats please).

Spots are very limited and will fill quickly.  Registration is now open at tvotpd@gmail.com. 

Don't hesitate to contact our office at 519-641-3936 with any questions.

ETFO eNewsletter - Bargaining Edition
NUMBER 33 - APRIL 3, 2013
Update: Discussions Between ETFO and Government Achieve Concrete Results

Last Tuesday, ETFO suspended the advice regarding participation in voluntary/extracurricular activities by members based on confidence that ongoing dialogue with the government and representatives from school boards would achieve concrete results on issues of concern to members.

All discussions with government have been focused on finding solutions that can be achieved without new money and within the Ministry's funding envelope.  ETFO is pleased to report that, while the details have yet to be finalized, understandings have been reached regarding the following issues:

Maternity Leave

  *   Eligibility for teachers, LTOs and full-time non-teaching members.
  *   Improvement of benefit - 100% salary for 8 weeks, less EI benefits.
  *   Receipt of benefit over the calendar year - 12 month period (for LTOs, the length of the assignment)
  *   June 1, 2013 implementation and superior benefits protected.

Sick Leave

  *   There will be no adjudication as set out in Regulation. With respect to the determination of eligibility for sick leave, collective agreement provisions and practices in effect at August 31, 2012, continue.
  *   References to 66 2/3% in Regulation and in the sick leave plan will be removed.
  *   Use of sick days as per 2008 Collective Agreement and practice.
  *   Extended LTD waiting period beyond 120 days will be covered. (applicable for Permanent Teachers)

Gratuity

  *   Increase to compensation to non-vested members for unused sick days. (not applicable for OTs/LTOs)

Workload Study

  *   A study to review current and planned educational initiatives and student assessment at the provincial and school board level with a view to clearly focusing such initiatives and assessments on student achievement, teacher workload, and teacher professionalism.

Job Security

  *   Job security clause for non-teacher members.

Voluntary/Extra-Curricular Activities

  *   ETFO will notify members that any advice to withdraw participation in voluntary/extra-curricular activities is suspended (completed March 26) and any decision to participate in voluntary/extra-curricular activities is at the discretion of the member.

These understandings were discussed with ETFO local presidents at a meeting in Toronto earlier today.

Based on the success of our meetings to date, as well as the good faith demonstrated by the government throughout these discussions, we are confident that ongoing dialogue will result in a full agreement being reached.

It is important to emphasize that an all-member vote will be conducted upon conclusion of any agreement reached with the government.  ETFO is a democratic organization and, as such, it is ETFO members who will determine whether an agreement reached with the provincial government is acceptable.


Copyright 2013 - The Elementary Teachers' Federation of Ontario
ETFO holds the copyright to all information in this publication, except where specifically noted.
All rights reserved.

    

A Message from ETFO to all Members, and other updates

The following was sent from Provincial ETFO to all Members on March 26, 2013:

Colleagues,
As you know, we have been in discussions with the government since February.  These talks will continue.  We are now confident that the government has demonstrated a commitment to dealing with concrete items of importance to our members.

In light of the progress made during these discussions and a commitment that talks to address outstanding issues will continue, ETFO is suspending its advice to members regarding voluntary/extra-curricular activities.

Members should be aware that any agreement reached by ETFO will be subject to an all-member vote.

To remain on the List:
On another note, it's that time of year when there are several criteria to complete to ensure one remains on the list.  They are:

1. Pay College of Teachers' fee by April 15th.  Those in an LTO assignment on January 1st  will have their fees automatically deducted by payroll.
2. Complete online Statement of Intent to Remain on the List/Canvass by April 30th >Employee Portal>HRS Applications.
3. Complete Annual Offence Declaration on Employee Portal.
4. Complete WHMIS Review.
5. Complete mandatory online training by June 28th.*
6. Notify TVDSB of any changes to name, address and/or telephone number.

*Please note that our designated online modules won't be posted until the middle of May.  We have received a number of queries advising that modules are available - those modules are available throughout the year for other staff members.

PD Event at BMO Centre:
Registration is still open for the upcoming Evening of Professional Development at the BMO Centre, 295 Rectory St., (just south of York St.) in London on Thursday, April 11th, 2013 from 4:30 - 7:30 PM.  Dinner is included and as well as on-site parking.
There are still spots available in the following sessions:

• MORE THAN A PLAY;  created by Ontario educators to support critical thinking about social justice and equity.  Each participant will receive a complimentary copy of the book, "More Than a Play"!
• TEACH NUTRITION: PRIMARY;  in this much-requested workshop, participants will learn how to encourage healthful eating habits and skills in your students.  Each participant will receive and learn to use a dynamic, cross-curricular and pedagogically sound resource toolkit provided by the Dairy Farmers of Ontario!
• BEYOND DODGEBALL:  PHYS. ED. SURVIVAL FOR THE OCCASIONAL TEACHER; come prepared to participate in this hands-on workshop.  Learn new ideas, games and skills to handle your physical educational assignments with ease!  This workshop will be held on an indoor soccer pitch. (Please wear running shoes - no outdoor cleats please).

Spots are limited.  Email your registration to: tvotpd@gmail.com or call 519-741-3936.

Also, those who missed notifying the Board of their interest in an LTO position for the next school year should notify John Cuddie or Sandi Douglas ASAP!

Pension Update:
We have had a few questions from members regarding the JSPP (Jointly Sponsored Pension Plan) agreement reached between OTF and the Government of Ontario.  This is an unprecedented type of framework and may seem a little confusing, but it is good news for members of the OTPP.  Further details can be found in the OTF FEO Communique, Volume 18 No. 7 dated March 20, 2013.  Or by visiting www.ottfeo.ca. 

June 7th Althouse paid PD Day:
Registration for workshops being offered on June 7th at Althouse is now open on the Employee Portal.  Members are encouraged to register early to avoid disappointment in their selections.  Much thanks to Catherine Zeisner and her team at Staff Development for their hard work in putting together such a fine assortment of sessions for elementary Occasional Teachers.
  

NEW: Upcoming Professional Development Evening

Thames Valley Occasional Teachers' Local Presents:

What:  An Evening of Professional Development
Where:  BMO Centre, 295 Rectory St., (just south of York St.) London, Ontario
When:  Thursday, April 11th, 2013 from 4:30 - 7:30 PM
Dinner included
Free parking on-site.

As requested by our Membership, we are pleased to offer the following PD sessions:

More Than a Play
Here is your chance to participate in this wildly popular and engaging workshop.  More Than a Play has been created by Ontario educators to support critical thinking about issues of social justice and equity.  Each play delves into the complexities of eliminating intolerance and prejudice in our world, and is guaranteed to generate meaningful and engaging classroom discussions.
Each participant will receive a complimentary copy of the book, "More Than a Play"!

Teach Nutrition: Primary
In this much-requested workshop, participants will learn how to encourage healthful eating habits and skills in your students.  Each participant will receive, and learn to use a dynamic, cross-curricular and pedagogically sound resource toolkit provided by the Dairy Farmers of Ontario!  This seminar will be led by a Registered Dietition.

Beyond Dodgeball:  Phys. Ed. Survival for the Occasional Teacher
Come prepared to participate in this hands-on workshop.  Learn new ideas, games and skills to handle your physical education assignments with ease! This workshop will be held on an indoor soccer pitch.  (Please wear running shoes - no outdoor cleats please).

Spots are very limited and will fill quickly.  Registration is now open at tvotpd@gmail.com. 

Don't hesitate to contact our office at 519-641-3936 with any questions.