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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ELEMENTARY TEACHERS’ FEDERATION OF ONTARIO 

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