Registration is open and quickly filling up for our upcoming PD Event with full dinner on Januray 8, 2015 at the BMO Centre, 295 Rectory Street, in London. 4:30 - 7:30 PM.
Workshops being presented are:
Session 1: PHYSICAL EDUCATION - Beyond Dodge ball: 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 field and track. Wear comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear.
Session 2: TEACH NUTRITION - Power to Play (Primary): A curriculum-integrated workshop for primary teachers. This program helps students build healthy living basics through videos, classroom activities, music and hands-on food activities. Meets curriculum expectations in H&PE, Language and Math and has been recently updated to reflect the FDK curriculum. Each teacher that attends this workshop will receive a free program kit.
Session 3: TEACH NUTRITION - Power 2B-Me (Intermediate): This cross-curricular program enables intermediate students to eat well! Through engaging in-class activities, food challenge videos, and online technology (including photo journaling, polls and food factoids). Grade 7&8 students explore personal healthy eating challenges and consider relevant solutions to make better food choices. The program meets curriculum expectations for H&PE, as well as cross-curricular connections to subjects including Math and Language. Each teacher that attends this workshop will receive a free program kit.
REGISTRATION: www.etfotvot.com No cost for TVOT members
Deadline: January 5, 2015
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Spots are still available for the ETFO Women’s Leadership Conference …and still we rise. Please go to the following to register:
http://www.etfo.ca/professionaldevelopment/etfoconferences/pages/default.aspx
________________________________________________________
On a final note, on behalf of your President, Terry Card and your Executive, we wish you a Festive and Joyful Holiday and all the best for 2015!
ETFO THAMES VALLEY OCCASIONAL TEACHERS' LOCAL
Wednesday, December 17, 2014
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
Inclement Weather, Transportation and School Disruptions
Before we get into further inclement weather that causes disruption to transportation and the operation of our schools we would like to take this opportunity to remind every one about the protocols during such times.
When buses are cancelled at schools that include students that walk AND ride the bus, the school remains open to receive students and an appropriate supervised instructional program is carried out. Staff are expected to make it to school when safety permits this to occur.
When TVDSB buses are cancelled at schools where all students are transported to school (100% bused schools), the school is closed.
When TVDSB delays buses for two hours, staff are expected to make it to school when safety permits this to occur, the school is open to receive students and an appropriate supervised instructional program is carried out.
When TVDSB delays buses for two hours, and subsequently cancels buses, staff are expected to make it to school when safety permits this to occur, the school remains open to receive students and an appropriate supervised instructional program is carried out.
Please note that when schools are open in the morning and a subsequent event occurs (could be weather, a cancellation of buses following a delay, an infrastructure problem...) that results in students leaving the building, the SCHOOL REMAINS OPEN and any and all students that remain in our care are supervised by Board staff until they are placed safely in the care of an authorized adult. We can transfer students into the care of authorized adults and dismiss staff as agreed with a member(s) of Senior Administration, but we do not close the school once it is opened in the morning. Please note that when schools are open, parents have the option of picking up their child early but they are not required to do so.
In all cases of inclement weather, staff should follow the inclement weather procedures and/or contact their supervisor if they have any concerns.
SCHOOLS THAT CLOSE WHEN TRANSPORTATION IS CANCELLED FROM THE OUTSET
REGION: SCHOOL:
Elgin County Aldborough, New Sarum, Port Stanley,
South Dorchester, Southwold, Sparta, Summers' Corners
Middlesex County Adelaide-W.G. MacDonald, Caradoc North,
Centennial Central, McGillivray Central,
Medway, Mosa Central, Oxbow, Valleyview, West Nissouri
Oxford County East Oxford, Zorra Highland
London - Red/Yellow Zone Westminster Central
Registration is now open for our Professional Development Event on January 8, 2015 at the BMO Centre, 295 Rectory Street, in London from 4:30 - 7:30 PM. with full dinner - No cost for TVOT members. Registration: www.etfotvots.com
Workshop 1: Physical Education - Beyond Dodgeball
Workshop 2: Teach Nutrition - Power to Play (Primary)
Workshop 3: Teach Nutrition - Power 2B-Me (Intermediate)
When buses are cancelled at schools that include students that walk AND ride the bus, the school remains open to receive students and an appropriate supervised instructional program is carried out. Staff are expected to make it to school when safety permits this to occur.
When TVDSB buses are cancelled at schools where all students are transported to school (100% bused schools), the school is closed.
When TVDSB delays buses for two hours, staff are expected to make it to school when safety permits this to occur, the school is open to receive students and an appropriate supervised instructional program is carried out.
When TVDSB delays buses for two hours, and subsequently cancels buses, staff are expected to make it to school when safety permits this to occur, the school remains open to receive students and an appropriate supervised instructional program is carried out.
Please note that when schools are open in the morning and a subsequent event occurs (could be weather, a cancellation of buses following a delay, an infrastructure problem...) that results in students leaving the building, the SCHOOL REMAINS OPEN and any and all students that remain in our care are supervised by Board staff until they are placed safely in the care of an authorized adult. We can transfer students into the care of authorized adults and dismiss staff as agreed with a member(s) of Senior Administration, but we do not close the school once it is opened in the morning. Please note that when schools are open, parents have the option of picking up their child early but they are not required to do so.
In all cases of inclement weather, staff should follow the inclement weather procedures and/or contact their supervisor if they have any concerns.
SCHOOLS THAT CLOSE WHEN TRANSPORTATION IS CANCELLED FROM THE OUTSET
REGION: SCHOOL:
Elgin County Aldborough, New Sarum, Port Stanley,
South Dorchester, Southwold, Sparta, Summers' Corners
Middlesex County Adelaide-W.G. MacDonald, Caradoc North,
Centennial Central, McGillivray Central,
Medway, Mosa Central, Oxbow, Valleyview, West Nissouri
Oxford County East Oxford, Zorra Highland
London - Red/Yellow Zone Westminster Central
Registration is now open for our Professional Development Event on January 8, 2015 at the BMO Centre, 295 Rectory Street, in London from 4:30 - 7:30 PM. with full dinner - No cost for TVOT members. Registration: www.etfotvots.com
Workshop 1: Physical Education - Beyond Dodgeball
Workshop 2: Teach Nutrition - Power to Play (Primary)
Workshop 3: Teach Nutrition - Power 2B-Me (Intermediate)
Wednesday, December 3, 2014
Evaluations for LTOs of at least 4 months
Under Ontario Regulation 274/12 - Hiring Practices, part of the requirements for an Occasional Teacher on the long term occasional (LTO) list to apply for a posted permanent position is to have completed a LTO contract of at least 4 months long and in respect of which the teacher has not yet received an unsatisfactory evaluation.
There are 7 performance expectations:
1. Creates a safe and inclusive learning environment
2. Models and promotes positive and respectful student interactions
3. Demonstrates effective classroom management strategies
4. Demonstrates knowledge of the Ontario curriculum
5. Plans and implements meaningful learning experiences for all students
6. Differentiates instructional and assessment strategies based on student needs, interests and learning profiles
7. Utilizes a variety of evidence-based assessment and evaluation strategies
For more details on the process to be followed and the observable indicators of the LTO Evaluation, please go to the link below:
http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/policyfunding/memos/feb2013/OT_EvaluationFramework.pdf
Registration for the January 8, 2015 PD Event at the BMO Centre is now open. Please go to www.etfotvot.com to register.
There are 7 performance expectations:
1. Creates a safe and inclusive learning environment
2. Models and promotes positive and respectful student interactions
3. Demonstrates effective classroom management strategies
4. Demonstrates knowledge of the Ontario curriculum
5. Plans and implements meaningful learning experiences for all students
6. Differentiates instructional and assessment strategies based on student needs, interests and learning profiles
7. Utilizes a variety of evidence-based assessment and evaluation strategies
For more details on the process to be followed and the observable indicators of the LTO Evaluation, please go to the link below:
http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/policyfunding/memos/feb2013/OT_EvaluationFramework.pdf
Registration for the January 8, 2015 PD Event at the BMO Centre is now open. Please go to www.etfotvot.com to register.
Wednesday, November 26, 2014
Van full of Donations for Merrymount Children Centre
Thank you to those members who were able to attend our re-scheduled Fall General Meeting yesterday afternoon at the Elm Hurst Inn. We are pleased to announce that the Preliminary Submission for Local bargaining was passed by 100%.
Once again, our members stepped up to the plate and brought lots of donations for the Merrymount Family Support and Crisis Centre which were greatly appreciated by Anne Brooks, their Communications and Development Manager.
ETFO Staff Officer Susan Ansara brought those in attendance up to date with the provincial strike vote protocol and Craig Smith, ETFO- Permanent Teacher Local President brought warm wishes.
The ETFO 2014 Central Strike Vote is open and available on-line. Please go to www.etfotcb.ca to vote now. The voting period runs from November 24, to November 29, at 9 PM. If you have any questions or require any help, contact the Central Strike Vote Help Centre at 1-877-869-8233.
And Still We Rise... Registration is now open for ETFO's popular women's conference taking place the evening of February 25th to February 27th at Toronto's Royal York Hotel. The theme is women's leadership in the union and spots fill quickly so click on the link for more information and act quickly if you are interested. http://www.etfo.ca/CalAttach/aswr2015.pdf
Once again, our members stepped up to the plate and brought lots of donations for the Merrymount Family Support and Crisis Centre which were greatly appreciated by Anne Brooks, their Communications and Development Manager.
ETFO Staff Officer Susan Ansara brought those in attendance up to date with the provincial strike vote protocol and Craig Smith, ETFO- Permanent Teacher Local President brought warm wishes.
The ETFO 2014 Central Strike Vote is open and available on-line. Please go to www.etfotcb.ca to vote now. The voting period runs from November 24, to November 29, at 9 PM. If you have any questions or require any help, contact the Central Strike Vote Help Centre at 1-877-869-8233.
And Still We Rise... Registration is now open for ETFO's popular women's conference taking place the evening of February 25th to February 27th at Toronto's Royal York Hotel. The theme is women's leadership in the union and spots fill quickly so click on the link for more information and act quickly if you are interested. http://www.etfo.ca/CalAttach/aswr2015.pdf
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Technology for Teachers
ETFO Opportunity - ICT Conference for Members
January 16-17, 2015 Network with colleagues, learn about exciting technology projects and take part in hands-on workshops that explore Gamification, Coding, Google Drive, iPads, Social Media, Critical Thinking, Inclusive Classrooms and more!
The registration fee is $75.00 for conference materials, travel, meals, accommodation (as required), release time and dependent care, subject to ETFO guidelines.
Registration Deadline: December 1, 2014, 5 p.m. Successful participants will be selected by a random draw and will be notified by email by December 12, 2014.
Go to www.etfo.ca to view further information, agenda and registration form for this opportunity.
You can also contact Jill Aoki-Barrett, Executive Staff, jaokibarrett@etfot.org.
Our Fall General Meeting is taking place tomorrow afternoon and we look forward to hosting members at the scenic Elm Hurst Inn in Ingersoll. We will approve the Preliminary Submission for local bargaining at the meeting and three lucky members will take home a gift card for $200. Please remember to bring along a gift to donate to Merrymount Children's Centre.
Thanks to everyone who attended the All Member Meeting on Thursday at the Hellenic Centre. If you missed out on the information discussed that evening, you are invited to participate in the ETFO Town Hall on Tuesday, November 25. Members who have provided ETFO’s Member Records Department with an up-to-date telephone number by Friday, November 7 will be receiving a call from ETFO with an invitation to the town hall meeting on Tuesday, November 25 (8:00 pm – 9:00 pm) a few minutes before it begins.
January 16-17, 2015 Network with colleagues, learn about exciting technology projects and take part in hands-on workshops that explore Gamification, Coding, Google Drive, iPads, Social Media, Critical Thinking, Inclusive Classrooms and more!
The registration fee is $75.00 for conference materials, travel, meals, accommodation (as required), release time and dependent care, subject to ETFO guidelines.
Registration Deadline: December 1, 2014, 5 p.m. Successful participants will be selected by a random draw and will be notified by email by December 12, 2014.
Go to www.etfo.ca to view further information, agenda and registration form for this opportunity.
You can also contact Jill Aoki-Barrett, Executive Staff, jaokibarrett@etfot.org.
Our Fall General Meeting is taking place tomorrow afternoon and we look forward to hosting members at the scenic Elm Hurst Inn in Ingersoll. We will approve the Preliminary Submission for local bargaining at the meeting and three lucky members will take home a gift card for $200. Please remember to bring along a gift to donate to Merrymount Children's Centre.
Thanks to everyone who attended the All Member Meeting on Thursday at the Hellenic Centre. If you missed out on the information discussed that evening, you are invited to participate in the ETFO Town Hall on Tuesday, November 25. Members who have provided ETFO’s Member Records Department with an up-to-date telephone number by Friday, November 7 will be receiving a call from ETFO with an invitation to the town hall meeting on Tuesday, November 25 (8:00 pm – 9:00 pm) a few minutes before it begins.
Wednesday, November 12, 2014
An ETFO Opportunity for Members
ETFO Connected Communities Online Learning is offering different webinars throughout the month of November, 2014.
If you're interested in:
- Knowing more about effective use of technology in the classroom?
- Looking for more effective practices for teaching and learning in a digital world?
- Developing your understanding of promoting digital citizenship and the safe use of the Internet?
- Enhancing your knowledge of mathematics curriculum and content?
- Increasing your understanding of balanced, effective, instructional strategies and assessment practices in mathematics?
Math Topics:
- Communication (November 25)
- Getting Comfortable with Mathematics (November 26)
Technology Topics:
- 21st Century Learners (November 20)
- iPads/iPods (November 24)
- Media for Learning (November 27)
Each webinar will be held on the weekday evening listed from 8 PM to 9 PM.
To register, please fax the registration form found on the Provincial ETFO website; www.etfot.ca
to 416-355-6753.
Please note that registration closes one week prior to each webinar.
There are still spots available for the Fall General Meeting taking place on Thursday November 20, 2014 at the Elm Hurst Inn in Ingersoll. There will be much to discuss at this meeting and we encourage you to attend. Dinner is included and door prizes including three $200 gift cards to be given out to lucky members. For registration and notice of constitutional amendments check out the members section of www.etfotvot.com.
It is very important that Occasional Teachers have their ETFO Provincial ID number (from the "red apple card") as soon as possible. This ID number will be necessary in order to participate in the upcoming information meeting being held November 18th at the Hellenic Centre at 5 PM. Call 1-888-838-3836 if you have misplaced your ID number. The ETFO ID number also enables you to participate in discounts through Edvantage and to register in ETFO Provincial workshops and conferences.
If you're interested in:
- Knowing more about effective use of technology in the classroom?
- Looking for more effective practices for teaching and learning in a digital world?
- Developing your understanding of promoting digital citizenship and the safe use of the Internet?
- Enhancing your knowledge of mathematics curriculum and content?
- Increasing your understanding of balanced, effective, instructional strategies and assessment practices in mathematics?
Math Topics:
- Communication (November 25)
- Getting Comfortable with Mathematics (November 26)
Technology Topics:
- 21st Century Learners (November 20)
- iPads/iPods (November 24)
- Media for Learning (November 27)
Each webinar will be held on the weekday evening listed from 8 PM to 9 PM.
To register, please fax the registration form found on the Provincial ETFO website; www.etfot.ca
to 416-355-6753.
Please note that registration closes one week prior to each webinar.
There are still spots available for the Fall General Meeting taking place on Thursday November 20, 2014 at the Elm Hurst Inn in Ingersoll. There will be much to discuss at this meeting and we encourage you to attend. Dinner is included and door prizes including three $200 gift cards to be given out to lucky members. For registration and notice of constitutional amendments check out the members section of www.etfotvot.com.
It is very important that Occasional Teachers have their ETFO Provincial ID number (from the "red apple card") as soon as possible. This ID number will be necessary in order to participate in the upcoming information meeting being held November 18th at the Hellenic Centre at 5 PM. Call 1-888-838-3836 if you have misplaced your ID number. The ETFO ID number also enables you to participate in discounts through Edvantage and to register in ETFO Provincial workshops and conferences.
Wednesday, November 5, 2014
Microsoft Office
Did you know that TVDSB employees can
purchase Microsoft Office Suite 2013 for only $11 (plus $13.99 if you opt for
the back up CD as recommended)?
This is a home use, single computer version
which contains Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, One Note, Publisher, Access,
InfoPath and Link. You have the option of selecting either the Windows or Mac
edition. Unfortunately MS Office 2013 is not compatible with Windows XP.
To purchase, log in to First Class >
Conferences > IT Tips and FAQs > then scroll down to Microsoft Office
Employee Purchase Plan and follow the steps listed there.
Thank you to everyone who attended and participated in the Interview Skills Professional Development at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn, last Thursday. Presenter Sylvia Van Campen provided excellent tips and guidance on the Interview process. The interview begins as soon as you step out of your car or enter the building - be prepared and do your research so you can impress the interviewer.
Don't forget to register for our Fall General Meeting being held at Elm Hurst Inn in Ingersoll on November 20th, 2014 from 4:30 - 7:30 PM. where the preliminary submission will be presented to members. Come enjoy a fabulous dinner (included) and door prizes including three $200 gift cards.
Members are encouraged to bring along donations in support of Merrymount Children's Centre. For registration and notice of constitutional amendments, go to the members section of www.etfotvot.com.
A few house cleaning items, please ensure our office, the Board and The College of Teachers have your full and correct residential address. We are receiving many returned mailings from Canada Post with incorrect/incomplete stickers on the envelopes. Firstly, it is a condition of employment that the Board, have your correct address along with your Union. Also, the cost involved in re-sending these mailings is unnecessary to all members.
On a similar note, meals are being purchased for members who are registering for various Professional Development events and then Members don't attend. We understand that emergencies do arise and there isn't much one can do about those, however, should you become aware that you will not be able to attend, we ask that you edit your spot on the website so that another member who is on a wait list may take your place and meals will not go to waste. Failing that you can always call the office to have your registration cancelled.
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
Your Provincial ETFO ID Card/Apple Card
Your Provincial ETFO ID Card / Apple Card
In order to register for
Provincial ETFO conferences, participate in any online votes and qualify for
the Edvantage discounts, need to have your ETFO membership number. Your ETFO ID number is found on the front of
your membership card just beneath your name.
If you have misplaced your membership card, call the Provincial office at
1-888-838-3836 anytime between 8 AM and 5 PM and ask for Member Records.
Did you know that your ETFO apple
ID card gives you access to “Edvantage”/ www.edvantage.ca - a rewards program for the exclusive use of
those in the education field with discounts from more than 40 partners such as:
· Alamo Car Rental
· Baka Mobile – discounts for Bell
· BMO – Mastercard with 17.5% interest
· CAA - $15 dollars off membership
· Campus discount magazines
· Canada’s Wonderland - discounts
· CarCost - car purchasing service
· CarStar Collision and Glass
· Core Learning educational materials
· Dignity Memorial
· Dulux Paint discounts
· Educator’s Financial Group
· Electronics for Less - appliances, entertainment etc.
· Enterprise Rent a Car – 9 % discount
· Execulink internet
· Niagara Hotel and Waterpark discounts
· FTD Florists
· Goodlife Fitness
· Great Wolfe Lodge
· H & R Block
· Hakim Optical
· Listen up Canada
· National Car Rental
· Nutcracker Suite Gift Baskets
· Ontario Teachers’ Insurance Plan
· Ontario Snow Resorts Association
· Ortho Car
· Park Hyatt
· Park ‘n Fly
· Perkopolis
· Roots
· Scholars Education
· Soft Moc
· The Brick
· Tip Top Tailors
· Toronto FC and Toronto Raptors
· Via Rail
· Young Drivers
· 21st Century Travel Insurance
Local Meetings
We look forward to hosting 75 members at our First Professional Development Event of the school year at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn tomorrow afternoon from 4:30 - 7:30 PM. Space for this PD was limited to 75 participants which was reached quickly. We do have several members on a waiting list, so if you do have to cancel for any reason, please edit your registration on the website and/or contact our office by email (mail@etfotvot.com) or telephone 519-641-3936 so that another member can take your place.
We look forward to hosting 75 members at our First Professional Development Event of the school year at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn tomorrow afternoon from 4:30 - 7:30 PM. Space for this PD was limited to 75 participants which was reached quickly. We do have several members on a waiting list, so if you do have to cancel for any reason, please edit your registration on the website and/or contact our office by email (mail@etfotvot.com) or telephone 519-641-3936 so that another member can take your place.
Registration is open for the Fall General Meeting which will take place on Thursday, November 20, 2014 at the Elm Hurst Inn in Ingersoll. Come enjoy a fabulous dinner (included) and door prizes including three $200 gift cards.
Members are encouraged to bring along donations in support of Merrymount Children's Centre.
For registration and notice of constitutional amendments check out the members section of www.etfotvot.com.
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
Be in the Know
Be in the Know
This is a bargaining year. For up to the date information about the current round of
negotiations and articles of interest to all members visit http://www.etfocb.ca/
The Connected Communities project is comprised of a series of new online sessions with a team of teacher experts. Funded by the Ontario Ministry of Education, online sessions will take the form of webcasts, webinars and online communities of learners designed to support teaching and learning in mathematics and technology-enabled learning.
The project begins with nine webinars, run by members for members, during the month of November on topics such as: developing rich problem-solving, communication, getting comfortable with mathematics, using technology across the curriculum, gamification, google docs and apps, 21st century learners, iPads/iPods and media for learning.
Registration is available in both PDF and RTF formats. Please fax your completed form to ETFO-AQ at 416-355-6753. For more information visit the ETFO website or email Janet Millar Grant at jmillargrant@etfo.org.
Take a few minutes to check the TVOT Local Website. This is your career and profession, be informed. The majority of our members have registered accounts on the TVOT Local Website, there is still a small minority of our membership that have not yet registered- please go online and register today. If you experience any problems or have any questions, we are always available at the office to walk you through the steps. Please use your personal email address as it is inappropriate to use the Board's First Class to contact the Union; nor is it private.
There are still several spots available for our upcoming PD event on October 30th, at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn from 4:30 pm - 7:30 pm. Interview Skills for Occasional Teachers is being presented by Sylvia Van Campen. Dinner will be served and there is no charge to members.
Wednesday, October 15, 2014
Focus Group Sessions, LTO Grids and upcoming PD
Focus Group Opportunity:
Just to let members know that ETFO Provincial is working with NOW Communications and Viewpoints Research to conduct focus group sessions on ETFO "branding" in London on October 29th. ETFO members will be randomly selected from our membership database of Thames Valley members. If you are contacted, we urge you to accept this opportunity - your input will be greatly valued!
New Grid for LTOs:
To find the new grid for LTOs log in to the TVDSB Employee Portal and from the top, select Organizational Support Services > Human Resources > Teaching Staff - Elementary (from the side panel) > Collective Agreements > MOU - Elementary Equalization Grid for September 2014.
To find the daily rate, divide the annual salary shown on the grid. This figure includes the 4% vacation pay.
Upcoming PD Event that you requested:
Join us on Thursday, October 30, 2014 from 4:30 pm - 7:30 pm at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn, for an evening of Interview Preparation Skills! Learn how to anticipate questions and promote your professional strengths and accomplishments during a teaching interview. Registration for this event is available via the etfotvot website at www.etfotvot.com. Space is limited, avoid disappointment.
Pocket Calendars and Newsletters have been mailed out.
Just to let members know that ETFO Provincial is working with NOW Communications and Viewpoints Research to conduct focus group sessions on ETFO "branding" in London on October 29th. ETFO members will be randomly selected from our membership database of Thames Valley members. If you are contacted, we urge you to accept this opportunity - your input will be greatly valued!
New Grid for LTOs:
To find the new grid for LTOs log in to the TVDSB Employee Portal and from the top, select Organizational Support Services > Human Resources > Teaching Staff - Elementary (from the side panel) > Collective Agreements > MOU - Elementary Equalization Grid for September 2014.
To find the daily rate, divide the annual salary shown on the grid. This figure includes the 4% vacation pay.
Upcoming PD Event that you requested:
Join us on Thursday, October 30, 2014 from 4:30 pm - 7:30 pm at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn, for an evening of Interview Preparation Skills! Learn how to anticipate questions and promote your professional strengths and accomplishments during a teaching interview. Registration for this event is available via the etfotvot website at www.etfotvot.com. Space is limited, avoid disappointment.
Pocket Calendars and Newsletters have been mailed out.
Wednesday, October 8, 2014
Passing of Ken Beckett
It is with great sadness that the ETFO Thames Valley Occasional Teachers' Local notes the passing of Ken Beckett, Local President 1998-2000. Ken spent his teaching career advocating for Teachers and later Occasional Teachers. Ken had the difficult task of amalgamating the Collective Agreements from Elgin, London, Middlesex and Oxford into our first Thames Valley Agreement. He was generous with his advice and mentored many into leadership positions with the Union. He will be missed.
Pocket Calendars and Newsletters: We have experienced delays out of our control in mailing the Pocket Calendars and Newsletters to our members. We have been informed they will be mailed this week. Your patience and understanding is appreciated.
Upcoming Professional Development Event: Join us on Thursday, October 30, 2014, from 4:30 pm - 7:30 pm, at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn, for an evening of Interview Preparation Skills! Learn how to anticipate questions and promote your professional strengths and accomplishments during a teaching interview. Registration for this requested Professional Development will be open shortly at www.etfotvot.com.
Wednesday, October 1, 2014
Two Upcoming ETFO Provincial Conference Oppportunities
ETFO Provincial’s ICT Conference: Technology for Teachers is the first of two conferences funded by the Ministry of Education. The conference will take place at the ETFO Office in Toronto and OISE/UT on November 28-29, 2014. The target audience is members interested in learning about new technology and online resources to engage today’s students. The conference includes two keynote speakers: Michelle Derosier will highlight how technology can create social change and lawyer, Robyn White, who will speak about the importance of practicing caution when communicating electronically.
Presentations of technology projects from across the province will be shared on Friday while Saturday workshops will provide hands-on opportunities to learn more about SMART Boards, iPads, Google Drive, programming, Minecraft, Social Networking and various online resources. This will be an exciting learning and networking opportunity for members from across the province. The application form is highlighted on the ETFO home page at www.etfo.ca.
The registration fee is $75 and covers the cost of conference materials, travel, meals and release time. Deadline for applications is October 13th but register early as spaces are limited. Successful applicants will be notified by email prior to October 24. Details are available at www.etfo.ca.
ETFO Provincial's Thriving in a Challenging Workplace: Good Health and Well-being is being offered November 25-26, 2014 at the ETFO Office in Toronto. Topics will include mental health issues, healthy eating, incorporating physical exercise into your daily routine, stress reduction, voice care, conflict resolution etc.
The deadline for registration is October 21, 2014. The registration fee is $50 and covers the cost of conference materials, travel, meals and release time. Details are available at www.etfo.ca.
Presentations of technology projects from across the province will be shared on Friday while Saturday workshops will provide hands-on opportunities to learn more about SMART Boards, iPads, Google Drive, programming, Minecraft, Social Networking and various online resources. This will be an exciting learning and networking opportunity for members from across the province. The application form is highlighted on the ETFO home page at www.etfo.ca.
The registration fee is $75 and covers the cost of conference materials, travel, meals and release time. Deadline for applications is October 13th but register early as spaces are limited. Successful applicants will be notified by email prior to October 24. Details are available at www.etfo.ca.
ETFO Provincial's Thriving in a Challenging Workplace: Good Health and Well-being is being offered November 25-26, 2014 at the ETFO Office in Toronto. Topics will include mental health issues, healthy eating, incorporating physical exercise into your daily routine, stress reduction, voice care, conflict resolution etc.
The deadline for registration is October 21, 2014. The registration fee is $50 and covers the cost of conference materials, travel, meals and release time. Details are available at www.etfo.ca.
Wednesday, September 24, 2014
Keep in the Know
You can keep up to date by reading the Provincial ETFO Stewards' Mailing electronically at www.etfot.ca. The September 19, 2014 edition offers support and guidance to all it's membership. Numerous Provincial Conferences are available in areas of special interest such as Special Resources, Training for Presenters, Equity Workshops, Project Overseas, Information regarding Saving The Planet during Women's History Month and Thriving in a Challenging Workplace. Details and Registration forms can all be found at www.etfot.ca.
Also, included in this edition is the September PRS MATTERS dealing with the difficult topic of: ALLEGATIONS INVOLVING CAS AND/OR POLICE What to do if it happens to you ...
ETFO and your Local are here to support and assist you through an Allegation and related investigations should they occur.
We are pleased to let you know that the 2014- 2015 ETFO - TVOT pocket calenders are on their way. All members on the list will receive theirs. Please ensure your address is correct under your personal information via the Employee Portal.
Your Local reminds you that we all have a part to play in our democracy. Find out about the candidates for municipal and school trustee elections. We encourage all members to be an informed voter on October 27th.
Also, included in this edition is the September PRS MATTERS dealing with the difficult topic of: ALLEGATIONS INVOLVING CAS AND/OR POLICE What to do if it happens to you ...
ETFO and your Local are here to support and assist you through an Allegation and related investigations should they occur.
We are pleased to let you know that the 2014- 2015 ETFO - TVOT pocket calenders are on their way. All members on the list will receive theirs. Please ensure your address is correct under your personal information via the Employee Portal.
Your Local reminds you that we all have a part to play in our democracy. Find out about the candidates for municipal and school trustee elections. We encourage all members to be an informed voter on October 27th.
Wednesday, September 17, 2014
Designated PA Days and TVARRIS notes
Designated PD Days:
As a Thames Valley elementary Occasional Teacher, you are entitled to 4 half days of paid professional development on days when you would not otherwise be able to earn money. These count for all purposes as a day of work. This year, one of these days will be allocated for mandatory training. The required modules will be posted no sooner than April 2015 so modules that you see posted before that date are not required for elementary Occasional Teachers. Your options for the other paid day include self-directed PD; Staff Development's online modules available by registering on the Employee Portal; or attendance at the PA Day held at your favourite school (with the Principal's permission). Consider any of these for the October 11th PA Day or subsequent Board PA Days. Forms and further details are available on the Staff Development website.
To ensure TVARRIS is most effective:
1) Book off on TVARRIS when not available so the system does not bog down calling people who cannot work that day. There is no penalty for being unavailable so long as OTs teach 5 full days to remain on the OT List;
2) Recognize there will be many half-day jobs and with so many balanced schools, it might not be possible to put together a full day of work;
3) Consider taking late calls. As stated in the Collective Agreement, is an OT "arrives within a reasonable time of taking such late request", he/she will be paid for the full assignment.
Pocket Calendars and September Newsletter:
Calenders are at the Printers and will be mailed to all ETFO - TVDSB Occasional Teachers at the end of the month along with your first newsletter of the year.
As a Thames Valley elementary Occasional Teacher, you are entitled to 4 half days of paid professional development on days when you would not otherwise be able to earn money. These count for all purposes as a day of work. This year, one of these days will be allocated for mandatory training. The required modules will be posted no sooner than April 2015 so modules that you see posted before that date are not required for elementary Occasional Teachers. Your options for the other paid day include self-directed PD; Staff Development's online modules available by registering on the Employee Portal; or attendance at the PA Day held at your favourite school (with the Principal's permission). Consider any of these for the October 11th PA Day or subsequent Board PA Days. Forms and further details are available on the Staff Development website.
To ensure TVARRIS is most effective:
1) Book off on TVARRIS when not available so the system does not bog down calling people who cannot work that day. There is no penalty for being unavailable so long as OTs teach 5 full days to remain on the OT List;
2) Recognize there will be many half-day jobs and with so many balanced schools, it might not be possible to put together a full day of work;
3) Consider taking late calls. As stated in the Collective Agreement, is an OT "arrives within a reasonable time of taking such late request", he/she will be paid for the full assignment.
Pocket Calendars and September Newsletter:
Calenders are at the Printers and will be mailed to all ETFO - TVDSB Occasional Teachers at the end of the month along with your first newsletter of the year.
Thursday, September 11, 2014
News and "Save the Date"
If this first week back to school is any indication of how quickly time flies, we had better hold tight.
We are pleased to advise that we are, once again, providing our members, with a copy of our ever popular ETFO Thames Valley Occasional Teachers' Local pocket calendar for the 2014- 2015 school year. They are currently at the printers and it is our intent to have them in the mail by the end of the month along with a hard copy of the Fall issue of our newsletter, The Supply Line. In view of taking on a "Green" and cost-effective approach, future issues will be available on our website only: www.etfotvot.com. All current members on the list will have these mailed to the address listed. This would be a good time to verify that your personal information is up to date on the Employee Portal.
We will once again, be offering the Book Rebate Program to all our members. This year the amount you can claim has been increased to $40.00. Details and the claim form required will be available on our website under Useful Documents shortly. This is a wonderful opportunity for you to purchase relevant professional books and be reimbursed for their costs. Don't forget these resources must be relevant to your teaching profession.
We have also arranged for several PD events, the first scheduled for October 30th, 2014 at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn, 591 Wellington Road S, in London. These events are held after school from 4:30PM- 7:30PM and a light dinner is provided. You must register to attend this event. Registration is necessary for several reasons. We need to provide the presenters with numbers so they are better prepared and most provide hand-outs/ resources to all participants as well as providing the venue with numbers so that ample seating and food is available to all those attending.
We understand that cancellations occur- we ask that you cancel your reserved spot on-line, or communicate with our office as soon as you learn that you need to cancel so that another member can take your spot. Seating for these events is limited and we typically have a waiting list. We appreciate your consideration in this regard.
Registration will be open shortly on the ETFO - TVDSB OT website at www.etfotvot.com under Member Services. Over half of our membership have accounts on our website but there are still some of you who have not yet set up your accounts. You will be missing out on important information pertinent to your career. All communication, forms, advisories from ETFO Provincial, notices, etc, will be distributed on the website under Member Services which is a secure site. You must have an account set up to access it. Please remember to use your personal email when signing up as it is inappropriate to use the Board's First Class email system for Union business. As always, do not hesitate to contact our office should you have any questions or require any assistance in setting up your account.
We are here for you.
We are pleased to advise that we are, once again, providing our members, with a copy of our ever popular ETFO Thames Valley Occasional Teachers' Local pocket calendar for the 2014- 2015 school year. They are currently at the printers and it is our intent to have them in the mail by the end of the month along with a hard copy of the Fall issue of our newsletter, The Supply Line. In view of taking on a "Green" and cost-effective approach, future issues will be available on our website only: www.etfotvot.com. All current members on the list will have these mailed to the address listed. This would be a good time to verify that your personal information is up to date on the Employee Portal.
We will once again, be offering the Book Rebate Program to all our members. This year the amount you can claim has been increased to $40.00. Details and the claim form required will be available on our website under Useful Documents shortly. This is a wonderful opportunity for you to purchase relevant professional books and be reimbursed for their costs. Don't forget these resources must be relevant to your teaching profession.
We have also arranged for several PD events, the first scheduled for October 30th, 2014 at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn, 591 Wellington Road S, in London. These events are held after school from 4:30PM- 7:30PM and a light dinner is provided. You must register to attend this event. Registration is necessary for several reasons. We need to provide the presenters with numbers so they are better prepared and most provide hand-outs/ resources to all participants as well as providing the venue with numbers so that ample seating and food is available to all those attending.
We understand that cancellations occur- we ask that you cancel your reserved spot on-line, or communicate with our office as soon as you learn that you need to cancel so that another member can take your spot. Seating for these events is limited and we typically have a waiting list. We appreciate your consideration in this regard.
Registration will be open shortly on the ETFO - TVDSB OT website at www.etfotvot.com under Member Services. Over half of our membership have accounts on our website but there are still some of you who have not yet set up your accounts. You will be missing out on important information pertinent to your career. All communication, forms, advisories from ETFO Provincial, notices, etc, will be distributed on the website under Member Services which is a secure site. You must have an account set up to access it. Please remember to use your personal email when signing up as it is inappropriate to use the Board's First Class email system for Union business. As always, do not hesitate to contact our office should you have any questions or require any assistance in setting up your account.
We are here for you.
Thursday, September 4, 2014
Wednesday's Blog on Thursday OOPs
Welcome back to a promising new school year and to our weekly blog.
End of the 2% Penalty
As you recall, when ETFO signed the Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Ontario on June 12, 2013, there was a provision to eliminate the 2% penalty a previous government had imposed on our members and to restore our salary to parity with the other Teacher federations, effective September 2014. Daily Occasional Teachers never experienced this penalty since the daily rate included a salary allowance (Article 7.01 of the Collective Agreement). Long-Term Occasional Teacher Salary grids have been adjusted and the changes will be reflected on the first pay.
Vacancy on Local Executive
As your Local begins a fresh term, we find ourselves short 1 Executive member. Please consider applying for this position using the form found on our website www.etfotvot.com . This promises to be an exciting year as we embark on our first round of bargaining under the new two-tiered process legislated by Bill 122.
Designated PA Days
As a Thames Valley Occasional Teacher, you are entitled to 4 half days of paid professional development. This year, one of these days will be used for mandatory training with the required modules to be posted no sooner than April 2015. The other paid day may be used for self-directed PD so consider using October 11th or any of the subsequent TVDSB PA Days to register on the Employee Portal for Staff Development's online modules or ask the Principal if you can attend the PD offered at your favourite school that day. Forms and further details are available on the Staff Development website.
End of the 2% Penalty
As you recall, when ETFO signed the Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Ontario on June 12, 2013, there was a provision to eliminate the 2% penalty a previous government had imposed on our members and to restore our salary to parity with the other Teacher federations, effective September 2014. Daily Occasional Teachers never experienced this penalty since the daily rate included a salary allowance (Article 7.01 of the Collective Agreement). Long-Term Occasional Teacher Salary grids have been adjusted and the changes will be reflected on the first pay.
Vacancy on Local Executive
As your Local begins a fresh term, we find ourselves short 1 Executive member. Please consider applying for this position using the form found on our website www.etfotvot.com . This promises to be an exciting year as we embark on our first round of bargaining under the new two-tiered process legislated by Bill 122.
Designated PA Days
As a Thames Valley Occasional Teacher, you are entitled to 4 half days of paid professional development. This year, one of these days will be used for mandatory training with the required modules to be posted no sooner than April 2015. The other paid day may be used for self-directed PD so consider using October 11th or any of the subsequent TVDSB PA Days to register on the Employee Portal for Staff Development's online modules or ask the Principal if you can attend the PD offered at your favourite school that day. Forms and further details are available on the Staff Development website.
Thursday, June 26, 2014
Employment Insurance
The Reference Code for Employment Insurance Applications for the 2014 Summer Break is:
3511012014201406 Effective 2014 June 15 Expiry: 2014 August 03
All records of employment (for permanent and temporary employees) will be sent electronically to Services Canada by Payroll Services. Employees do not need a hard copy of their Record of Employment to apply for Employment Insurance.
Please note that Payroll Services will process the mass Records of Employment for Employment Insurance purposes on 2014 June 24 for all permanent employess and 2014 July 09 for all temporary employees.
This e-mail will also be posted on the Employee Portal (under Reference>Board Documents>Payroll).
Any questions please call the TVDSB Payroll Help Line at (519)452-2521.
Urgent Action Required if you have not completed your MANDATORY On-Line Training Modules. You have until Friday, June 27 to complete them.
This will be the last Wednesday Blog for the 2013 - 2014 school year. On behalf of your President, Terry Card and the Executive, I would like to wish all our members a safe and enjoyable summer vacation.
3511012014201406 Effective 2014 June 15 Expiry: 2014 August 03
All records of employment (for permanent and temporary employees) will be sent electronically to Services Canada by Payroll Services. Employees do not need a hard copy of their Record of Employment to apply for Employment Insurance.
Please note that Payroll Services will process the mass Records of Employment for Employment Insurance purposes on 2014 June 24 for all permanent employess and 2014 July 09 for all temporary employees.
This e-mail will also be posted on the Employee Portal (under Reference>Board Documents>Payroll).
Any questions please call the TVDSB Payroll Help Line at (519)452-2521.
Urgent Action Required if you have not completed your MANDATORY On-Line Training Modules. You have until Friday, June 27 to complete them.
This will be the last Wednesday Blog for the 2013 - 2014 school year. On behalf of your President, Terry Card and the Executive, I would like to wish all our members a safe and enjoyable summer vacation.
Wednesday, June 18, 2014
Volunteering during the Instructional Day
Many members volunteer in classroom settings with the hope that volunteer work will improve their chances of being hired for full-time, permanent contracts or long term occasional work.
Professional Liability
Whether your volunteer activity involves contact with students, parents, colleagues or other members of the school community, you are at risk of being the subject of complaints about your conduct. The distinction between your paid and unpaid work may not be understood by other members of the school community. They will expect the same level of professionalism regardless of the duties you perform: it is likely that the College of Teaches will also share the same view.
It is important to remember that the Child and Family Services Act does not clearly distinguish between paid or volunteer activities when it comes to the duty to report suspicion of harm or risk of harm.
Ongoing Risk and Limited Protection
The protections and entitlements negotiated for ETFO members generally only apply to paid positions, not to volunteer activities. Be aware that you are not covered for issues arising during volunteer activities outside your professional obligations.
Entitlement to benefits under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act may also limit your activities. Your employer only pays premiums for employees based on payroll: injuries arising from volunteer activities may not provide entitlements under the Act.
Working for no pay?
Working for no pay is not something ETFO views to be in a member's best interest. Your professional services are valuable to the employer and the education community. Work should be compensated.
Tips
MEMBERS ARE ADVISED NOT TO PARTICIPATE IN ANY PRIMARY DIVISION (GRADES 1-3), JUNIOR DIVISION (GRADES 4-6), GRADE 9 ASSESSMENT OF MATHEMATICS OR THE ONTARIO SECONDARY SCHOOL LITERACY TEST (GRADE 10) EQAO MARKING EXERCISE.
The Federation views province-wide testing of every student in the primary and junior divisions and grades 9 and 10 as both a misuse of student time, and an ineffective use of funds that should be redirected to support students' learning.
Members are advised:
Professional Liability
Whether your volunteer activity involves contact with students, parents, colleagues or other members of the school community, you are at risk of being the subject of complaints about your conduct. The distinction between your paid and unpaid work may not be understood by other members of the school community. They will expect the same level of professionalism regardless of the duties you perform: it is likely that the College of Teaches will also share the same view.
It is important to remember that the Child and Family Services Act does not clearly distinguish between paid or volunteer activities when it comes to the duty to report suspicion of harm or risk of harm.
Ongoing Risk and Limited Protection
The protections and entitlements negotiated for ETFO members generally only apply to paid positions, not to volunteer activities. Be aware that you are not covered for issues arising during volunteer activities outside your professional obligations.
Entitlement to benefits under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act may also limit your activities. Your employer only pays premiums for employees based on payroll: injuries arising from volunteer activities may not provide entitlements under the Act.
Working for no pay?
Working for no pay is not something ETFO views to be in a member's best interest. Your professional services are valuable to the employer and the education community. Work should be compensated.
Tips
- Volunteering in a school setting is by choice and members should not be coerced or pressured by promises of full time work.
- There should be a formal written plan in place clarifying the scope of your volunteer role.
- The hours of the volunteer work should be formalized.
- If you are not being paid as an Occasional Teacher, you should not be taking on the responsibilities of the Teacher. The classroom Teacher must have all responsibility for planning, supervision, discipline, assessment, communications with parents and teaching.
- All parties should be aware of the limitations you have in your volunteer capacity: this includes staff colleagues, students and parents: It must be clear that you are attending in a volunteer capacity.
- Continue to conduct yourself professionally. Maintain boundaries. Maintain reliable, diligent and professional work habits. Maintain positive, professional relationships with staff. Recognize that you are in an employment environment. If you would not do something as an Occasional Teacher, don't do it as a volunteer.
- Minimize your involvement in activities that will expose you to risk of injury or liability for which you have no or limited coverage.
- Ensure that the volunteer placement is limited.
- Be sure to notify the school administration when participating in a field trip or event outside your paid assignment.
MEMBERS ARE ADVISED NOT TO PARTICIPATE IN ANY PRIMARY DIVISION (GRADES 1-3), JUNIOR DIVISION (GRADES 4-6), GRADE 9 ASSESSMENT OF MATHEMATICS OR THE ONTARIO SECONDARY SCHOOL LITERACY TEST (GRADE 10) EQAO MARKING EXERCISE.
The Federation views province-wide testing of every student in the primary and junior divisions and grades 9 and 10 as both a misuse of student time, and an ineffective use of funds that should be redirected to support students' learning.
Members are advised:
- Not to participate in any EQAO marking exercise.
Wednesday, June 11, 2014
Wednesday, June 4, 2014
Vote Strategically to stop Tim Hudak
There are just a few days left for you to do what you can to ensure that the natural flow from the ranks of Occasional Teacher to permanent Teacher is not reversed. Talk to your friends and family about what Tim Hudak cuts to education would mean to you. Remind them that the PC promise to cut 10,000 non-teaching jobs meaning schools will be dirtier. there will be fewer Educational Assistants in the system and so less help for special needs students. Full-day kindergarten classes will be larger and without the assistance of ECEs.
Tell your friends and family how larger class sizes in all grades means a need for fewer permanent Teachers. This certainly does not auger well for those just starting their careers. With the PCs offering less professional development, there will be fewer days of work for Occasional Teachers and Tim Hudak has stated that he would cancel the Liberal's promise to restore equity in salary with the rest of Ontario's Teachers in September.
Finally, we must acknowledge that the effects of a Hudak government would be felt in every sector. CUPE research states that the cuts to wages and jobs would cost London 7116 jobs. Even those who manage to hold on to employment could expect fewer benefits and more desperation. The Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives points out that today, only 47% of Canadians self-identify as middle class, compared to 70% in 2002.
You may be sick of politics, but we need to have these conversations. Time is of the essence. We must do all we can to get out the vote to stop Tim Hudak.
Tell your friends and family how larger class sizes in all grades means a need for fewer permanent Teachers. This certainly does not auger well for those just starting their careers. With the PCs offering less professional development, there will be fewer days of work for Occasional Teachers and Tim Hudak has stated that he would cancel the Liberal's promise to restore equity in salary with the rest of Ontario's Teachers in September.
Finally, we must acknowledge that the effects of a Hudak government would be felt in every sector. CUPE research states that the cuts to wages and jobs would cost London 7116 jobs. Even those who manage to hold on to employment could expect fewer benefits and more desperation. The Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives points out that today, only 47% of Canadians self-identify as middle class, compared to 70% in 2002.
You may be sick of politics, but we need to have these conversations. Time is of the essence. We must do all we can to get out the vote to stop Tim Hudak.
2 Smartboard workshops on June 11th (beginner) and June 12th (advanced) will be held after school at 4:30pm at: Woodland Heights P.S.474 Springbank Dr, London, ON N6J 1G8 A light dinner will be provided.
Session 1: Smartboard Basics Workshop: Walking into a new class can be challenging enough, why does classroom technology have to make it more difficult? If you are new to interactive whiteboards, this session will help introduce you to the technology and familiarize you with their basic use and functions.Participants will be taken step-by-step through the process of opening and accessing smartboard programs and get to practice making some of their own activities in Smart Notebook. Though computer access will be provided, any participants wishing to bring their own laptops are recommended to downl oad the Smart Notebook program atsmarttech.com/downloads.
Session 2: Intermediate smartboard Do you have an LTO in a class with an interactive whiteboard? You know the basics, but want to learn how to take your lessons to the next level. This workshop is designed to give teachers with some basic knowledge of Smart Notebook tips and examples to make full use of the powerful software. Participants will explore the various functions of the Notebook program, and with examples, start to make their own advanced activities for use in the classroom. Using this software can be a great way to engage students or impress a potential employer, so when it comes to working with an interactive whiteboard, take your skills from 'how?' to 'wow!' today! Though computer access will be provided, any participants wishing to bring their own laptops are recommended to download the Smart Notebook program atsmarttech.com/downloads.
about the presenter: Kevin O'Neill is a core French teacher for TVDSB and technology consultant for RK Publishing. Kevin has presented at conferences and for school boards across the province discussing diverse topics in regards to technology use in the classroom
Wednesday, May 28, 2014
SMART Board PD Opportunity
2 Smartboard PD workshops have been arranged for our members to participate in:
June 11th (beginner) and June 12th (intermediate).
They will be held after school at 4:30pm at:
Woodland Heights P.S.
474 Springbank Dr, London, ON N6J 1G8
A light dinner will be provided to our members participating.
Space is limited so please register early to avoid disappointment.
Registration now open via
www.etfotvot.com
Smartboard Basics Workshop:
Walking into a new class can be challenging enough, why does classroom technology have to make it more difficult? If you are new to interactive whiteboards, this session will help introduce you to the technology and familiarize you with their basic use and functions.
Participants will be taken step-by-step through the process of opening and accessing Smartboard programs and get to practice making some of their own activities in Smart Notebook.
Though computer access will be provided, any participants wishing to bring their own laptops are recommended to download the Smart Notebook program at smarttech.com/downloads.
Smartboard Intermediate Workshop:
Do you have an LTO in a class with an interactive whiteboard? You know the basics, but want to learn how to take your lessons to the next level. This workshop is designed to give teachers with some basic knowledge of Smart Notebook tips and examples to make full use of the powerful software. Participants will explore the various functions of the Notebook program, and with examples, start to make their own advanced activities for use in the classroom. Using this software can be a great way to engage students or impress a potential employer, so when it comes to working with an interactive whiteboard, take your skills from 'how?' to 'wow!' today!
Though computer access will be provided, any participants wishing to bring their own laptops are recommended to download the Smart Notebook program at smarttech.com/downloads.
about the presenter: Kevin O'Neill is a core French teacher for TVDSB and technology consultant for RK Publishing. Kevin has presented at conferences and for school boards across the province discussing diverse topics in regards to technology use in the classroom.
We look forward to hosting over 100 members this afternoon at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn for our Spring General Meeting and Elections. The end of the school year is always a busy time but there are many questions out there regarding these times for Teachers. Thank you to those of you who will be in attendance showing interest in your professional careers.
June 11th (beginner) and June 12th (intermediate).
They will be held after school at 4:30pm at:
Woodland Heights P.S.
474 Springbank Dr, London, ON N6J 1G8
A light dinner will be provided to our members participating.
Space is limited so please register early to avoid disappointment.
Registration now open via
www.etfotvot.com
Smartboard Basics Workshop:
Walking into a new class can be challenging enough, why does classroom technology have to make it more difficult? If you are new to interactive whiteboards, this session will help introduce you to the technology and familiarize you with their basic use and functions.
Participants will be taken step-by-step through the process of opening and accessing Smartboard programs and get to practice making some of their own activities in Smart Notebook.
Though computer access will be provided, any participants wishing to bring their own laptops are recommended to download the Smart Notebook program at smarttech.com/downloads.
Smartboard Intermediate Workshop:
Do you have an LTO in a class with an interactive whiteboard? You know the basics, but want to learn how to take your lessons to the next level. This workshop is designed to give teachers with some basic knowledge of Smart Notebook tips and examples to make full use of the powerful software. Participants will explore the various functions of the Notebook program, and with examples, start to make their own advanced activities for use in the classroom. Using this software can be a great way to engage students or impress a potential employer, so when it comes to working with an interactive whiteboard, take your skills from 'how?' to 'wow!' today!
Though computer access will be provided, any participants wishing to bring their own laptops are recommended to download the Smart Notebook program at smarttech.com/downloads.
about the presenter: Kevin O'Neill is a core French teacher for TVDSB and technology consultant for RK Publishing. Kevin has presented at conferences and for school boards across the province discussing diverse topics in regards to technology use in the classroom.
We look forward to hosting over 100 members this afternoon at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn for our Spring General Meeting and Elections. The end of the school year is always a busy time but there are many questions out there regarding these times for Teachers. Thank you to those of you who will be in attendance showing interest in your professional careers.
Wednesday, May 21, 2014
Annual Spring General Meeting and Elections Reminder
Don't let the date pass you by, registration for the Spring General Meeting and Elections taking place next Wednesday, May 28, 2014 from 4:30 - 7:30 PM at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn, 591 Wellington Road South, London, ON, will close in 2 days. A delicious dinner buffet will be served at 5:00 PM. RSVP is required for the meal at www.etfotvot.com. Dinner for Members at no charge.
Come out to learn about your future and career as an Occasional Teacher in the current Political Climate. This is a very important time in our Province and some proposed changes can have a tremendous impact on you. Your President and Local Executive are comprised of some very talented, bright and experienced Occasional Teachers who can provide answers to your questions and want to represent you in the best way possible. This is a prime opportunity to mingle with your peers, meet the Executive and your President - ask questions you've been wondering about or getting confusing answers to from others.
ETFO AQ: BY TEACHERS/FOR TEACHERS
The 2014 - 2015 Course Calendar is available and registration is open for Summer 2014 AQ Courses.
Among the many interesting courses being offered are:
English as a Second Language - Part 1,
French as a Second Language - Part 1,
Integration of Information and Computer Technology in Instruction - Part 1,
Mathematics, Primary and Junior - Part 1,
Primary Education - Part 1,
Reading - Part 1,
Special Education - Part 1.
ETFO AQ courses are developed by teachers for teachers; current and practical; accredited by the Ontario College of Teachers; and recognized by QECO and AQ credits.
Cost for the courses is $650.00. Go to www.etfot-aq-ca for more information and to register.
Come out to learn about your future and career as an Occasional Teacher in the current Political Climate. This is a very important time in our Province and some proposed changes can have a tremendous impact on you. Your President and Local Executive are comprised of some very talented, bright and experienced Occasional Teachers who can provide answers to your questions and want to represent you in the best way possible. This is a prime opportunity to mingle with your peers, meet the Executive and your President - ask questions you've been wondering about or getting confusing answers to from others.
ETFO AQ: BY TEACHERS/FOR TEACHERS
The 2014 - 2015 Course Calendar is available and registration is open for Summer 2014 AQ Courses.
Among the many interesting courses being offered are:
English as a Second Language - Part 1,
French as a Second Language - Part 1,
Integration of Information and Computer Technology in Instruction - Part 1,
Mathematics, Primary and Junior - Part 1,
Primary Education - Part 1,
Reading - Part 1,
Special Education - Part 1.
ETFO AQ courses are developed by teachers for teachers; current and practical; accredited by the Ontario College of Teachers; and recognized by QECO and AQ credits.
Cost for the courses is $650.00. Go to www.etfot-aq-ca for more information and to register.
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
You Need to Know....
You may be sick of politics but you need to know that Tim Hudak has now admitted that Tory administration would raise class sizes, increasing the 20-student class-size cap up to Grade 3 to 23 children.
From Grade 4 to 8, the cap would jump from 24.5 students to 26 and in high school classes would rise from 22 to 24. Needless to say, this would result in a surplus of Teachers. For the first time in many years, the flow from OT Ranks to Teacher ranks would be reversed.
Tim Hudak's promise to cut 100,000 public sector jobs means that approximately 19,000 of those 100,000 pink slips would be given to teachers (9,000) and educational support staff (10,000).
Tim Hudak has stated that he would cancel the 2% raise promised to Elementary Teachers' Federation of Ontario members, restoring equity in salary with secondary Teachers in September.
Hudak also states that if elected he will ensure that "new" government hires won't be eligible for a "gold-plated pension" so be aware that your Teachers' Pension Plan is definitely one of his targets.
Have a talk with your family and friends. Do everything you possibly can to ensure that the Hudak Conservatives are not elected. We must do all that we can to ensure he does not form the government on June 12!
From Grade 4 to 8, the cap would jump from 24.5 students to 26 and in high school classes would rise from 22 to 24. Needless to say, this would result in a surplus of Teachers. For the first time in many years, the flow from OT Ranks to Teacher ranks would be reversed.
Tim Hudak's promise to cut 100,000 public sector jobs means that approximately 19,000 of those 100,000 pink slips would be given to teachers (9,000) and educational support staff (10,000).
Tim Hudak has stated that he would cancel the 2% raise promised to Elementary Teachers' Federation of Ontario members, restoring equity in salary with secondary Teachers in September.
Hudak also states that if elected he will ensure that "new" government hires won't be eligible for a "gold-plated pension" so be aware that your Teachers' Pension Plan is definitely one of his targets.
Have a talk with your family and friends. Do everything you possibly can to ensure that the Hudak Conservatives are not elected. We must do all that we can to ensure he does not form the government on June 12!
Wednesday, May 7, 2014
Something to Think About.....
This is to remind members that when you teach in a daily assignment, you are disrupting the regular routine of the class. As today's "Supply Teacher," you may find yourself with a target on your back. You have had no time to build a rapport with the class, gain the respect of their parents nor to set your own expectations for behaviour. The permanent Teacher might be able to make comments or gestures that students could misinterpret when coming from "the stranger off the street." Please remember to keep your composure at all times. Do not use sarcasm, maintain the dignity of your students and always keep in mind that a hands off policy is the safest course of action. As a daily OT, you do not know the history of the students in your care. You may not be aware of the challenges they faced before arriving at school. Please do not put yourself in a situation which could result in an allegation. Teach defensively. Should you find yourself facing an allegation, call the Local immediately. We will provide you with representation at all stages and legal support if necessary.
Wednesday, April 30, 2014
Professional Boundaries - Part Two
Adapted from ETFO PROVINCIAL - PROFESSIONAL RELATIONS SERVICES: 1-888-838-3836
RESTRAINT INTERVENTION:
DO: DON'T:
- have a plan; know available options - use physical force
- remain in control - lose temper
- seek assistance - act alone
- document/report all incidents to the Principal - talk to everyone about the incident
- remove your audience - over-react
- call the Professional Relations Services department - release any documents, information, (Provincial Office) statements etc. without counsel
- take courses - only qualified personnel should intervene
- know your rights and responsibilities
- remember that intervention is the last resort
Extracurricular ACTIVITIES:
- ensure student transportation is provided - volunteer to drive (eg Students home/
- partner two people (adults) events)
- ensure liability coverage - ever be alone with a student
- follow OPHEA Safety guidelines - scrimmage with students
- have current first aid training/kit - touch students
- be encouraging - stray from open public spots
- make parents aware of times - be critical of students and their abilities
- keep in mind that activities are voluntary - close doors when meeting with a student
- establish and make known criteria for team selection
- establish emergency protocol
DISCIPLINARY PRACTICES:
- be fair - single out
- recognize there is due process (Code of Conduct) - react physically, vocally, touch
- use positive reinforcement - discipline
- appropriate procedures to individual, circumstances - attack ancestry; make racial slurs
- focus on behaviour, not on the child - debate/get drawn into a power struggle
- be firm and consistent - whine/cry
- detach emotionally - over-react
- be kind, calm - use sarcasm
- communicate with parents - reveal confidential information
- document; keep Administration informed
PERSONAL DISCLOSURE:
- legislation - reveal personal family information shared
- Children's Aid Society confidentially
- Board Policy - spread negative reports about/of colleagues
- seek support from Prov. Professional Relations Services
________________________________________
Annual General Meeting and Elections
Scheduled for Wednesday May 28, 2014 from 4:30 - 7:30 PM
Best Western Lamplighter Inn
591 Wellington Road South, London, ON
Dinner Buffet 5:00 PM
RSVP Required for meal
www.etfotvot.com to register
Notice of Constitutional Amendments received to date:
Any Executive member who is absent for 2 consecutive Executive meetings or 3 Executive/General meetings in total, may be replaced by motion of the Executive.
Dinner for Members at no charge to include:
Salad
- Caesar Salad garnished with parmesan shavings
- Garden Greens with a selection of house dressings
- Potato Salad with Pan fried pancetta and smoked cheese croutons
- Marinated Mushroom Salad
- Mediterranean Greek Salad
Antipasto
- Crisp Vegetable crudites with herb dip
- Sliced European deli meats
- Domestic and International cheeses
- Savoury array of breads, flatbreads and rolls
Savoury Affair
- Penne Pasta Primavera in creamy sundried tomato sauce
- Oven roasted Yukon Gold potatoes
- Rice Pilaf
- Chef's Market Vegetables and Middle Eastern Vegetables
Entree
- Slow roasted Prime Rib of beef and Ontario red wine jus
- Pan seared Salmon Filet with a dill infused white wine sauce
Selection of Desserts
- Seasonal fresh fruit and berries
- Assorted cakes, tortes, cheesecakes, pastries and homemade pies
Don't miss out - register to attend.
____________________________________________________
May 14, 2014 PD Notification
Both sessions have filled and registration is closed.
Please email: mail@etfotvot.com or call the ETFO- TVOT office at 519-641-3936 to place your name on a waiting list if so desired.
Due to the unavailability of the Presenter of session 2; Tried and True...Classroom Management for Occasional Teachers has been replaced with :
RESTRAINT INTERVENTION:
DO: DON'T:
- have a plan; know available options - use physical force
- remain in control - lose temper
- seek assistance - act alone
- document/report all incidents to the Principal - talk to everyone about the incident
- remove your audience - over-react
- call the Professional Relations Services department - release any documents, information, (Provincial Office) statements etc. without counsel
- take courses - only qualified personnel should intervene
- know your rights and responsibilities
- remember that intervention is the last resort
Extracurricular ACTIVITIES:
- ensure student transportation is provided - volunteer to drive (eg Students home/
- partner two people (adults) events)
- ensure liability coverage - ever be alone with a student
- follow OPHEA Safety guidelines - scrimmage with students
- have current first aid training/kit - touch students
- be encouraging - stray from open public spots
- make parents aware of times - be critical of students and their abilities
- keep in mind that activities are voluntary - close doors when meeting with a student
- establish and make known criteria for team selection
- establish emergency protocol
DISCIPLINARY PRACTICES:
- be fair - single out
- recognize there is due process (Code of Conduct) - react physically, vocally, touch
- use positive reinforcement - discipline
- appropriate procedures to individual, circumstances - attack ancestry; make racial slurs
- focus on behaviour, not on the child - debate/get drawn into a power struggle
- be firm and consistent - whine/cry
- detach emotionally - over-react
- be kind, calm - use sarcasm
- communicate with parents - reveal confidential information
- document; keep Administration informed
PERSONAL DISCLOSURE:
- legislation - reveal personal family information shared
- Children's Aid Society confidentially
- Board Policy - spread negative reports about/of colleagues
- seek support from Prov. Professional Relations Services
________________________________________
Annual General Meeting and Elections
Scheduled for Wednesday May 28, 2014 from 4:30 - 7:30 PM
Best Western Lamplighter Inn
591 Wellington Road South, London, ON
Dinner Buffet 5:00 PM
RSVP Required for meal
www.etfotvot.com to register
Notice of Constitutional Amendments received to date:
Any Executive member who is absent for 2 consecutive Executive meetings or 3 Executive/General meetings in total, may be replaced by motion of the Executive.
Dinner for Members at no charge to include:
Salad
- Caesar Salad garnished with parmesan shavings
- Garden Greens with a selection of house dressings
- Potato Salad with Pan fried pancetta and smoked cheese croutons
- Marinated Mushroom Salad
- Mediterranean Greek Salad
Antipasto
- Crisp Vegetable crudites with herb dip
- Sliced European deli meats
- Domestic and International cheeses
- Savoury array of breads, flatbreads and rolls
Savoury Affair
- Penne Pasta Primavera in creamy sundried tomato sauce
- Oven roasted Yukon Gold potatoes
- Rice Pilaf
- Chef's Market Vegetables and Middle Eastern Vegetables
Entree
- Slow roasted Prime Rib of beef and Ontario red wine jus
- Pan seared Salmon Filet with a dill infused white wine sauce
Selection of Desserts
- Seasonal fresh fruit and berries
- Assorted cakes, tortes, cheesecakes, pastries and homemade pies
Don't miss out - register to attend.
____________________________________________________
May 14, 2014 PD Notification
Both sessions have filled and registration is closed.
Please email: mail@etfotvot.com or call the ETFO- TVOT office at 519-641-3936 to place your name on a waiting list if so desired.
Due to the unavailability of the Presenter of session 2; Tried and True...Classroom Management for Occasional Teachers has been replaced with :
I am the Teacher - Effective Management for the Occasional Teacher - Sylvia Van Campen, Presenter
The workshop provides occasional teacher locals an opportunity to access effective classroom management strategies based on the ETFO resource - I am the Teacher: Effective Classroom Management for the Occasional Teacher. Teachers receive practical classroom-tested strategies as well as networking opportunities with other occasional teachers. A resource book will be provided to participants.
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
Professional Boundaries - Part One
Adapted from ETFO PROVINCIAL - PROFESSIONAL RELATIONS SERVICES : 1-888-838-3836
WRITTEN COMMENTS:
DO: DON'T:
- ensure Principal sees notes sent to parents - write anything in haste that could be
re: entire class/sensitive issues misinterpreted
- utilize factual comments rather than - threaten, use negatives
interpretations/heresay - be tactless
- write notes when you are calm rather than - communicate in written form when a verbal in the heat of the moment discussion would suffice
- keep copies of all communications sent
- be wary of grammatical structures, spelling
VERBAL COMMENTS:
DO: DON'T:
- speak calmly - swear
- use positive phrases - threaten
- remain professional - intimidate
- be non-judgmental - be sarcastic
- be non-racial - use personal attack
- be reflective - use the "past"
- restate and rephrase for understanding - yell
- be polite and respectful - use slanderous language
- be receptive - demean
- be open, honest, fair - trivialize
- think before you speak, take a deep breath - say things you will regret later
- empathize - use "isms"
TOUCHING:
DO: DON'T:
- be trained in BMS where necessary - touch a student if it can be avoided
- be age appropriate
- be aware of real/ perceived abuse
- make it appropriate for the safety of yourself, others
- reduce risks
- be sensitive to cultural diversity
GESTURES:
DO: DON'T:
- smile, nod, be positive - use mocking gestures - limp, crazy
- pat on shoulder (when not alone) - use hitting motions; clench fists; mock
- offer consoling gestures (when not alone) throttling
- offer congratulatory gestures - make obscene gestures eg. The finger
eg. handshake, high-five - use facial expressions eg. Duh? Hello?
- throw things eg. chalk
WRITTEN COMMENTS:
DO: DON'T:
- ensure Principal sees notes sent to parents - write anything in haste that could be
re: entire class/sensitive issues misinterpreted
- utilize factual comments rather than - threaten, use negatives
interpretations/heresay - be tactless
- write notes when you are calm rather than - communicate in written form when a verbal in the heat of the moment discussion would suffice
- keep copies of all communications sent
- be wary of grammatical structures, spelling
VERBAL COMMENTS:
DO: DON'T:
- speak calmly - swear
- use positive phrases - threaten
- remain professional - intimidate
- be non-judgmental - be sarcastic
- be non-racial - use personal attack
- be reflective - use the "past"
- restate and rephrase for understanding - yell
- be polite and respectful - use slanderous language
- be receptive - demean
- be open, honest, fair - trivialize
- think before you speak, take a deep breath - say things you will regret later
- empathize - use "isms"
TOUCHING:
DO: DON'T:
- be trained in BMS where necessary - touch a student if it can be avoided
- be age appropriate
- be aware of real/ perceived abuse
- make it appropriate for the safety of yourself, others
- reduce risks
- be sensitive to cultural diversity
GESTURES:
DO: DON'T:
- smile, nod, be positive - use mocking gestures - limp, crazy
- pat on shoulder (when not alone) - use hitting motions; clench fists; mock
- offer consoling gestures (when not alone) throttling
- offer congratulatory gestures - make obscene gestures eg. The finger
eg. handshake, high-five - use facial expressions eg. Duh? Hello?
- throw things eg. chalk
Thursday, April 17, 2014
You Have Access to Two Days of Extra Work
The 2 designated PD Days negotiated for all elementary Occasional Teachers count for all purposes as days of work i.e., for purposes of Employment Insurance, Teachers' Pension, seniority and as 2 of the 5 days required to remain on the elementary OT List. This year, the Board is hosting the first day, June 9th. This will not be an Althouse event and details will soon be announced. The second day will be used for mandatory online training which must be completed by June 27th. The WHMIS Review and the Offence Declaration components can be found in the Employee Portal under the Personal Information heading on the left hand side. The mandatory on-line training modules can be found on the same page, on the right hand side under Staff Development and Training. This year you are responsible for the following:
1. WorkeAwareness (scroll down to bottom to find this)
2. AODA Part 2 (lower down the list)
3. WHMIS Review (under "Personal Information" in Employee Portal)
4. Annual Offence Declaration (under "Personal Information" in Employee Portal)
5. Anaphylaxis Awareness
6. Driving in Inclement Weather
7. Employee Accident Incident Review
8. Attending a TVDSB Site
9. Routine Practices
10. Module 2 - Handling a Violent Situation
11. Module 3 - Post Incident Review Documentation
12. Module 4 - Safe Schools and Employee Roles
13. Module 5 - Harassment
14. Module 7 - Management of Aggressive Behaviour
15. Module 8 - Domestic Violence
16. Module 10 - Working Late
17. Module 12 - Workplace Design
18. Module 13 - Recognizing and Coping with Aggressive Behaviour
19. Think Before You Click
These are due by June 27, 2014.
1. WorkeAwareness (scroll down to bottom to find this)
2. AODA Part 2 (lower down the list)
3. WHMIS Review (under "Personal Information" in Employee Portal)
4. Annual Offence Declaration (under "Personal Information" in Employee Portal)
5. Anaphylaxis Awareness
6. Driving in Inclement Weather
7. Employee Accident Incident Review
8. Attending a TVDSB Site
9. Routine Practices
10. Module 2 - Handling a Violent Situation
11. Module 3 - Post Incident Review Documentation
12. Module 4 - Safe Schools and Employee Roles
13. Module 5 - Harassment
14. Module 7 - Management of Aggressive Behaviour
15. Module 8 - Domestic Violence
16. Module 10 - Working Late
17. Module 12 - Workplace Design
18. Module 13 - Recognizing and Coping with Aggressive Behaviour
19. Think Before You Click
These are due by June 27, 2014.
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
Mandatory Online training questions; ETFO's Building Better Schools
Mandatory Online Training
As you already know, the Board has released the requirements for this year's mandatory online training.
We have received several questions from members regarding where to find the WHMIS Review and the Offence Declaration requirements in the Employee Portal. They are found under the Personal Information heading on the left hand side. The mandatory on-line training modules can be found on the same page, on the right hand side under Staff Development and Training.
This year you are responsible for the following:
Building Better Schools - ETFO's Agenda to Build a Better Learning Environment for all Students
Early this month, ETFO launched their education agenda and called for:
1) Smaller class sizes to enable Teachers to provide more individual attention to students
2) More meaningful and random student assessment rather than the narrowly focused EQAO tests
3) Greater access to specialist Teachers to ignite and sustain student's attention in the arts, technology etc.
4) More resources for special needs students such as more EAs, Speech and Language pathologists, physical resources etc.
5) Greater focus on inclusion and equal opportunities for students from families with lower incomes
6) A strong union to fight for safe, healthy schools that foster student engagement and academic success.
As President Sam Hammond said, "Some of ETFO's proposals will save money, some are cost-neutral, and some will cost more. In anticipation of the next provincial election, our goal is to continue bringing to the fore issues that directly affect the education and lives of all students."
Spring General Meeting and Elections
Please save the date for our Annual Spring General Meeting which will take place on Wednesday, May 28th at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn. Registration will be open via our website shortly.
As you already know, the Board has released the requirements for this year's mandatory online training.
We have received several questions from members regarding where to find the WHMIS Review and the Offence Declaration requirements in the Employee Portal. They are found under the Personal Information heading on the left hand side. The mandatory on-line training modules can be found on the same page, on the right hand side under Staff Development and Training.
This year you are responsible for the following:
- Worker Awareness (scroll down to bottom to find this)
- AODA Part 2 (lower down the list)
- WHMIS Review (under "Personal Information" in Employee Portal)
- Annual Offence Declaration (under "Personal Information" in Employee Portal)
- Anaphylaxis Awareness
- Driving in Inclement Weather
- Employee Accident Incident Review
- Attending a TVDSB Site
- Routine Practices
- Module 2 - Handling a Violent Situation
- Module 3 - Post Incident Review Documentation
- Module 4 - Safe Schools and Employee Roles
- Module 5 - Harassment
- Module 7 - Management of Aggressive Behaviour
- Module 8 - Domestic Violence
- Module 10 - Working Late
- Module 12 - Workplace Design
- Module 13 - Recognizing and Coping with Aggressive Behaviour
- Think Before You Click
Early this month, ETFO launched their education agenda and called for:
1) Smaller class sizes to enable Teachers to provide more individual attention to students
2) More meaningful and random student assessment rather than the narrowly focused EQAO tests
3) Greater access to specialist Teachers to ignite and sustain student's attention in the arts, technology etc.
4) More resources for special needs students such as more EAs, Speech and Language pathologists, physical resources etc.
5) Greater focus on inclusion and equal opportunities for students from families with lower incomes
6) A strong union to fight for safe, healthy schools that foster student engagement and academic success.
As President Sam Hammond said, "Some of ETFO's proposals will save money, some are cost-neutral, and some will cost more. In anticipation of the next provincial election, our goal is to continue bringing to the fore issues that directly affect the education and lives of all students."
Spring General Meeting and Elections
Please save the date for our Annual Spring General Meeting which will take place on Wednesday, May 28th at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn. Registration will be open via our website shortly.
Wednesday, April 2, 2014
Mandatory online training and additonal PD Opportunities
The Board has just released the requirements for this year's mandatory online training. Please print off a copy of the requirements and be sure to click submit after viewing each:
A Technology for Teachers Conference offered by ETFO for women members is scheduled for May 30 (afternoon) to May 31, 2014, in Toronto at the Elementary Teachers' Federation of Ontario offices at 130 Isabella Street on the Friday and at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education at the University of Toronto, 252 Bloor Street West. on the Saturday. Network with colleagues, learn about exciting technology projects, and take part in hands-on workshops that explore Web 2.0 tools, iPad apps, SMART Boards, Google Drive, the connected Classroom, and more! The registration fee is $75.00 for conference materials, travel, meals, accommodation (as required), release time (half day), and dependent care, subject to ETFO Guidelines.
Registration deadline is April 22, 2014, 5 p.m.
Successful participants will be selected by a random draw and will be notified by e-mail, May 5, 2014.
Please go to www.etfo.ca for further information.
Your Local is just confirming details for an upcoming professional development event to be held next month. Check our website early next week to see what workshops are being offered and we hope to see you there.
As well, please save the date for our Annual Spring General Meeting scheduled for Wednesday, May 28, at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn. Registration will be open in the next few days on our website: www.etfotvot.com.
- Worker Awareness
- AODA Part 2 training
- WHMIS Review
- Annual Offence Declaration
- Anaphylaxis Awareness
- Driving in Inclement Weather
- Employee Accident Incident Review
- Attending a TVDSB site
- Routine Practices
- Module 2 - Handling a Violent Situation
- Module 3 - Post Incident Review Documentation
- Module 4 - Safe schools and Employee Roles
- Module 5 - Harassment
- Module 7 - Management of Aggressive Behaviour
- Module 8 - Domestic Violence
- Module 10 - Working Late
- Module 12 - Workplace Design
- Module 13 - Recognizing an Coping with Aggressive Behaviour
- Think Before You Click
A Technology for Teachers Conference offered by ETFO for women members is scheduled for May 30 (afternoon) to May 31, 2014, in Toronto at the Elementary Teachers' Federation of Ontario offices at 130 Isabella Street on the Friday and at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education at the University of Toronto, 252 Bloor Street West. on the Saturday. Network with colleagues, learn about exciting technology projects, and take part in hands-on workshops that explore Web 2.0 tools, iPad apps, SMART Boards, Google Drive, the connected Classroom, and more! The registration fee is $75.00 for conference materials, travel, meals, accommodation (as required), release time (half day), and dependent care, subject to ETFO Guidelines.
Registration deadline is April 22, 2014, 5 p.m.
Successful participants will be selected by a random draw and will be notified by e-mail, May 5, 2014.
Please go to www.etfo.ca for further information.
Your Local is just confirming details for an upcoming professional development event to be held next month. Check our website early next week to see what workshops are being offered and we hope to see you there.
As well, please save the date for our Annual Spring General Meeting scheduled for Wednesday, May 28, at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn. Registration will be open in the next few days on our website: www.etfotvot.com.
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Subsidy for Math Additional Qualifications; few spots for Thursday evening PD at Lamplighter Inn
Beginning in April, the Ministry of Education through the Ontario Teachers' Federation will offer $450 to Teachers who successfully complete a Math AQ. To find out if you are eligible click on this link http://www.otffeo.on.ca/en/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2014/03/math-aq-en.pdf
Email you application http://www.otffeo.on.ca/en/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2014/03/math-aq-application-en.pdf along with a valid transcript or transcript to mathsubsidy@otffeo.on.ca or fax to 416-966-5450. Check out the Math Subsidy page on the OTF site for further information.
FEW SPOTS NOW AVAILABLE
We are looking forward to hosting over 90 members tomorrow evening at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn from 4:30 - 7:30 PM for our PD Event. Workshops will begin after dinner.
Workshops for this event are:
Step Forward with French: created especially for Occasional Teachers to support OTs in short term assignments teaching French. The Step Forward with French resource was the 2010- 20122 ETFO Curriculum Award Winner. The background information in the resource used will provide the occasional teachers with the skills and confidence necessary to take on daily FSL assignments.
Math Foldables: This TVDSB focused workshop is designed to deepen math understanding using graphic organizers and paper folding in your math lessons and daily assignments.
Savvy Science for Grade 7/8: This workshop from ETFO Provincial focuses on inquiry which is a vital component of the intermediate science and technology program. Throughout the session participants will explore scientific method and inquiry models through hands-on participation in practical and engaging activities. At the end of the session participants will receive access to a series of inquiry activities for each strand in the intermediate science and technology program.
Dinner is included for members of the TVDSB OT Local and will include Slow Roasted Top Sirloin of Beef au Jus and Oriental Vegetable Stir Fry With a Soya Sauce Glaze along with various Salads, breads and rolls and a Sweet Selection of Coffee, Tea and Soft Drinks.
There are a few spots available in each session due to last minute cancellations. Please register on-line at www.etfotvot.com if you are interested in attending this PD Event but thought you had missed the registration deadline or call 519-641-3936 for assistance.
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