O ETFO also offers numerous workshops and annual conferences. Additional information about all
these programs, dates, and locations can be found on our website www.etfo.ca. Check out the
online calendar of events. Your ETFO steward receives regular mailings with application forms
for many programs. Your local professional learning chair is an important source of information
as is your local president. Additionally, these professional learning activities are highlighted in
the ETFO electronic newsletter and on Twitter (@etfopd and @etfonews). You can sign up for this
newsletter at the ETFO website.
Professional Relations Services (PRS)
During the course of your career you may experience professional difficulties that cannot be addressed or
resolved through the collective agreement. Working in the education system is more challenging today
than it has ever been. Teachers and education workers have complex and varying roles in a litigious
climate during a time of continual change and ongoing challenges.
ETFO professional relations staff provide information, advice, support, and intervention for members
who are experiencing professional difficulties covering a broad range of issues.
Staff in professional relations will advise you of your rights and responsibilities in matters such as:
O difficulties with students, staff, parents, administration;
O ethics and professionalism;
O performance appraisals;
O Ontario College of Teachers/College of Early Childhood Educators complaints;
O Criminal or CAS related allegations;
O conflict resolution;
O Employment Insurance;
O harassment and discrimination;
O human rights issues;
O long term disability;
O resignation and termination;
O stress and sick leave; and
O Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB).
This service is confidential and no action would be taken without the knowledge and consent of the
member.
Collective Bargaining
ETFO is the bargaining agent for all ETFO bargaining units.
ETFO collective bargaining staff provide direct assistance to your local, as well as all other locals, to help
you achieve and maintain strong collective agreements. They provide assistance with preparation of
preliminary proposals for improvements to your collective agreement as well as;
O ongoing advice on strategies and bargaining positions;
O assistance at the bargaining table;
O training of local presidents and negotiators at regional and provincial conferences;
O assistance in contract enforcement including the processing of grievances;
O access to legal advice through staff; and
A 24-hour
emergency
assistance line
is available to
members facing
criminal allegations
related to their
profession.
For advice or
assistance in any of
these areas, contact
ETFO professional
relations staff (PRS)
at 416-962-3836 or
toll free:
1-888-838-3836.
All information
shared by a member
with professional
relations staff is
held in confidence.
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