OSSTF planning one-day strike on Dec. 4

WELLINGTON COUNTY – High school teachers and support staff are planning a one-day strike on Dec. 4 if there is no progress in negotiations with the provincial government.

The Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation (OSSTF) began its first province-wide job action in 20 years on Nov 26.

Just two days later, frustrated with what it called a lack of movement from the government, the union announced it would stage a one-day strike on Dec. 4.

Both government and OSSTF officials have acknowledged the two sides remain “far apart” on issues such as mandatory online courses for students, average class sizes and wages.

The union represents teachers; support personnel/early childhood educators; occasional teachers; office, clerical and technical staff; and professional services personnel in the Upper Grand District School Board.

In the Wellington Catholic District School board, OSSTF represents support staff and office, clerical and technical workers.

Previously announced job action that began on Nov. 26 included refusing to participate in:

– EQAO preparation or testing;

– completion/submission of ministry data reports;

– school board professional activities;

– unpaid staff meetings outside the regular school day; and

– comments on report cards.

OSSTF will began strike action the same day as the Elementary Teachers Federation of Ontario (ETFO). The Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association (OECTA) has voted 97.1 per cent in favour of strike action; however, a date is not yet set.

Comments