The recently ratified TDSB OT collective agreement has brought relief to Ontario teachers who have been negotiating for months. This agreement, which covers approximately 14,000 teachers in the Toronto District School Board (TDSB), outlines the terms and conditions for their employment over the next few years.
One of the main points of this agreement is the increase in salary for teachers. According to reports, the TDSB has agreed to a salary increase of 1.5% in 2020-2021, followed by increases of 1.25% and 1% in the following two years respectively. Additionally, teachers who have reached the top of the salary grid will receive a one-time payment of $1,500.
Another significant aspect of this collective agreement is the inclusion of more resources for special education. The TDSB has committed to providing more support for students with special needs by increasing the number of special education teachers and designating additional funding for special education programs and services.
The agreement also addresses teacher workload, which has been a major point of contention in previous negotiations. The TDSB has agreed to address workload issues by establishing a joint committee with the union to monitor and investigate workload concerns.
The TDSB OT collective agreement also includes provisions for the use of technology in the classroom. The agreement allows for professional development opportunities for teachers to improve their technology skills and provides guidelines for the appropriate use of technology in the classroom.
This agreement comes at a crucial time for Ontario teachers, who have been facing numerous challenges over the past year. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the closure of schools and a shift to online learning, which has increased the workload for many teachers.
Overall, the TDSB OT collective agreement is a significant victory for Ontario teachers. It ensures fair compensation and resources for teachers while addressing important issues such as workload and special education. It is hoped that this agreement will provide a solid foundation for future negotiations and help to improve the quality of education for students in Ontario.