ETFO welcomes respectful, inclusive tone of Throne Speech

TORONTO, Feb. 19, 2013 /CNW/ - The Elementary Teachers' Federation of Ontario (ETFO) welcomes the approach of Ontario's new government toward building respect with its partners and building a society of inclusion as articulated in the Throne Speech.

"We look forward to working with this new government and appreciate the respect it has voiced for its partners in public services, including teachers," said ETFO President Sam Hammond. "While this commitment to respect is important, it will be the actions of the government that demonstrate what that really means."

"We are pleased that the government will continue the roll-out of full day Kindergarten across the province so that all children will have equal opportunity to get the best start in life."

"ETFO has repeatedly said that critical thinking, creativity, and a broadening of emphasis beyond numeracy and literacy to include science, math and technology is key to student success. The Throne Speech identified that as an education priority."

"The aspect of inclusion that was spoken of throughout the Throne Speech - from Aboriginal needs to building opportunities for those of all incomes, abilities, and new Canadians -sets an important example," added Hammond. "These issues of equity and equality of opportunity are important cornerstones of what we teach in our classrooms. That teaching is key to building a more inclusive society for all Ontarians."

The Elementary Teachers' Federation of Ontario represents 76,000 elementary public school teachers and education professionals across the province and is the largest teacher federation in Canada.

SOURCE: Elementary Teachers' Federation of Ontario

Valerie Dugale, ETFO Media Relations, Cell: 416-948-0195