The COVID-19 emergency is taking its toll on everyone. From health concerns, to economic shocks, to the challenges of social distancing and self-isolation, we are all affected.
Things are especially difficult for our students. Not only are they struggling to comprehend the crisis, their school year and daily routines have been thrown into disarray.
Ontario’s Catholic teachers are playing a positive role in helping students and families navigate these extraordinary times. We have reached out the Ministry of Education to offer our support and expertise, and we are now involved in a formal work group to develop plans for student learning should the school closures be extended.
As things have evolved quickly, there have been a variety of approaches in different areas of the province to manage the situation. Our hope is that we can come up with a consistent, equitable, province-wide approach that will work for all students, families, and teachers. In the meantime, many teachers are taking advantage of professional development opportunities being offered by OECTA and other organizations.
Whatever happens, Ontarians can be sure that Catholic teachers will stand up for our students, and do what we can to keep Ontario’s education system among the best in the world.
We wish you and your families well. And, as always, we thank you for your support. Please stay tuned for more information about how you can continue advocating for quality publicly funded education in Ontario.
Liz Stuart, President of the Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association
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