Invitation for applications for Organizing for Better Schools, Stronger Communities Work Group

The Provincial Executive is inviting applications from members for the Organizing for Better Schools, Stronger Communities Work Group, for the 2024–2025 term.

OSSTF/FEESO is seeking up to fifteen (15) members with experience in campaigns and outreach organizing with members and community allies, as we roll out an ambitious plan to build public support for investment in all levels of education in advance of the next provincial election.

The Work Group makes recommendations to the Provincial Executive and assists the Provincial and Regional Organizers in building the path forward for the implementation of year 1 of the OSSTF/FEESO Strategic Action Plan.

The 2024–2025 Organizing for Better Schools, Stronger Communities Work Group is structured into four (4) regional teams, which include:

• Northern & Central Ontario
• Southwestern Ontario
• Greater Toronto Area—Ontario
• Eastern Ontario

The 2024–2025 Organizing for Better Schools, Stronger Communities Work Group has an expanded mandate focusing on the following objectives:

• Advise the Provincial Executive on any matters related to the implementation of the Strategic Action Plan;
• Support the Provincial Organizer and regional organizers in carrying out campaign and outreach initiatives;
• Develop training and resources for the Organizing Institute which will take place at the regional level with virtual and in-person trainings;
• Research and develop “Bargaining for the Common Good” strategies to enhance the Federation’s member and community advocacy; and
• Assist in expanding the OSSTF/FEESO organizing networks to build rank-and-file member involvement and assist in developing and implementing Local Strategic Action plans in their assigned regions.

Ideal candidates for this work group will have a wealth of experience in member and community organizing, as well as demonstrated ability in engaging members in leading community outreach, campaigns, and political action.

The work group will meet up to eight (8) times throughout the year for one day in Toronto. In addition, work group members may be asked to travel for meetings and trainings, as needed. The Provincial Office will cover the costs to attend all meetings, including time release, transportation, accommodation and meals, as per the Federation Activity Allowable Expenditure Guidelines.

Members selected to be part of the workgroup must be able to secure release time from their employer. While time release for all meeting dates is paid for by the Provincial Office, applicants should verify with their local President that there are no restrictions for time release from their Bargaining Unit. Individuals selected to participate on the work group will be notified, along with their Bargaining Unit President, following approval by the Provincial Executive.

The Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation (OSSTF/FEESO) is dedicated to equity, anti-racism and anti-oppression while protecting and enhancing public education. OSSTF/FEESO values the participation of members with various lived experiences. We actively seek and welcome applications from members of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and/or equity-seeking groups. Self-identification is voluntary. If you choose to self-identify, please include a completed copy of the attached OSSTF/FEESO Voluntary Self-Identification Form with your application.

Any member in good standing with OSSTF/FEESO interested in applying for the 2024–2025 Organizing for Better Schools, Stronger Communities Work Group needs to:

• Submit a brief letter that speaks to the application criteria, their experience with member and community organizing, any additional and relevant federation experience, and any other information they would like the Provincial Executive to consider.
• Please be as specific as possible with your examples.

If you have any questions, please email Munib Sajjad, Provincial Organizer for OSSTF/FEESO at Munib.Sajjad@osstf.ca.

Completed applications should be sent to Munib.Sajjad@osstf.ca no later than Friday, July 19, 2024, at 4:00pm.

Attachments
OSSTF/FEESO Strategic Action Plan 2024-2027
OSSTF/FEESO Voluntary Self-Identification Form
Reference Form