August 29, 2024
To the Members of OSSTF/FEESO,
As a new school year begins for most of you, we want to take a moment to extend our heartfelt wishes for a safe and productive start. This time of year is always an exciting opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to public education and to the important work we do together.
Whether you have time off in the summer or work throughout the entire year, September is a time to refresh and start again as we welcome Ontario’s students back to our school buildings and post-secondary campuses.
Your commitment to students and dedication to public education is inspiring. Each day, you make a profound impact on the lives of young people, helping to shape their futures and our community’s well-being. For that, we are deeply grateful. Always remember that the Federation is here for you. Please reach out to you local bargaining unit and/or district with any concerns, questions, or for ways to get more involved with your union!
Video: Special message to OSSTF/FEESO members from President Karen Littlewood
Your perseverance and passion in the face of ongoing challenges do not go unnoticed, especially as we have faced many challenges over the past few years. It’s important to remember that you do not face these challenges alone. A movement is building to stand up against the Ford government’s attacks on public services and deliberate underfunding of public education, from junior kindergarten to post-secondary.
Labour Day 2024: Workers Together: For a Better Deal
Labour Day is just around the corner, and it’s an excellent opportunity for us to come together and celebrate our collective achievements while advocating for our rights. The Canadian Labour Congress has named this year’s theme as “Workers Together: For a Better Deal”.
All OSSTF/FEESO Members are encouraged to reach out to local labour councils and attend Labour Day events in your communities this weekend. You can also review messaging tips and advice from the Canadian Labour Congress when talking to friends and family about labour issues this weekend and all year long!
Provincial Executive Worksite Visits
This fall, the OSSTF/FEESO Provincial Executive will be visiting some worksites throughout Ontario. These visits are an important part of our commitment to hearing directly from you — our Members. We want to understand your experiences, address your concerns, and gather your insights to better support our collective efforts. We hope you will take this opportunity to attend the events and share your perspectives with us.
Upcoming Public Engagement Campaign
Later in September, we are excited to launch a new public engagement campaign aimed at pulling back the curtain and exposing the Ford government’s deliberate underfunding of public education. The campaign will highlight the contributions of education workers and teachers in supporting students at all levels to reach their full potential, despite the many challenges that staff and students face under the Ford government. Stay tuned for more information on how you can participate and amplify our message!
Together, we make a difference, and we will continue to advocate for the best interest of our students, our profession, and our province.
In Solidarity!
- Karen Littlewood, President
- Martha Hradowy, Vice President
- Malini Leahy, Vice President
- Roxanne Beauchamp, Executive Officer
- Sherry-Ann Bowen-Gordon, Executive Officer
- Colin Matthew, Executive Officer
- Jeff Denys, Treasurer