Elementary teachers in the Upper Grand District School Board (UGDSB) have voted resoundingly in favour of a strike, despite provincial legislation that would force them back to work should they initiate a work stoppage.
Members of the Upper Grand Elementary Teachers Federation of Ontario (ETFO) held a strike vote on Oct. 3, with 97 per cent of teachers in the UGDSB in favour of a work stoppage.
Occasional teachers voted 96% in favour of a strike.
Since the Sept. 11 passage of Bill 115, the Putting Students First Act, which gives the province the authority to impose wage freezes and ban strikes for at least two years, teachers across the province have reacted with outrage, claiming the legislation undermines their right to a collective bargaining agreement.
ETFO officials say there is nothing stopping teachers from holding a strike vote or initiating a work stoppage, but the moves may be symbolic only, as Bill 115 does contain a section giving the province the authority to force them back to work.
For the last month, on the advice of the ETFO, teachers have also refrained from voluntary activities, such as coaching Sports and leading choirs and drama productions.
Many teachers say the move is sending a clear message to the provincial government, while critics have stated the move selfishly puts the desires of teachers ahead of the right of every student to have and enjoy a complete educational experience.
