Get Back to the Table

TORONTO, May 8, 2015 /CNW/ - ETFO President Sam Hammond announced to parents that elementary teachers will begin work to rule on Monday, May 11^th and will not administer standardized tests, write report card comments or perform other administrative duties. He also indicated that the Ontario Public School Boards' Association (OPSBA) is demanding numerous concessions. ETFO has further indicated that they will not return to the bargaining table until all of the proposals presented by OPSBA and the Crown are withdrawn.

"We are frustrated by ETFO's failure to bargain since starting the clock ticking on job action" said OPSBA President Michael Barrett. "It does a disservice to students, families and the cause of public education."

OPSBA is the designated bargaining agent for central issues - money and policy matters that affect the province. We are a partner with the government at the table. We are responsible for student achievement and well-being. We are bargaining to ensure an environment that promotes student safety and well-being and maintains a strong and positive student-teacher and employer relationship. We are at the table and we will stay to get a deal that is good for students and respectful of the teachers who work in our classrooms.

"I encourage ETFO to return to the table at 9 a.m. Monday, May 11," said OPSBA President Michael Barrett. "We have been at the table, ready to talk, throughout this process and it is where we will be on Monday morning."

SOURCE Ontario Public School Boards' Association

Jeff Sprang, OPSBA Communications, 416-340-2540, Cell 416-903-3241