World Teachers’ Day 2024

On this World Teachers’ Day, we celebrate the unwavering dedication of teachers, as it’s the
staff in our schools who truly represent the heartbeat of public education. Every day, teachers
inspire and nurture the minds of students, fostering curiousity and resilience in future
generations. Their passion for educating and commitment to student success make an indelible
life-long impact on students as well as their entire communities.

While we celebrate teachers on October 5th, we must also call out policies and governments
that undermine public education and threaten equality of opportunity within our communities –
policies that make it nearly impossible for teachers to help students meet their full potential. We
cannot ignore the pressing reality of a serious teacher and education worker shortage in Ontario
and across Canada. These shortages have been caused by government policies that
deliberately underfund, undermine, and undervalue public education.

We cannot allow governments to jeopardize the quality of education that all students receive. To
ensure this, we must advocate for the necessary resources, support, and recognition that
teachers deserve. It is crucial that we uplift this vital profession and work collectively to ensure
that all teachers and education workers feel valued and empowered. When teachers are
provided all they need to do their best, our students become their best.

Let us commit to addressing the systemic issues that have led to staff shortages and work
towards sustainable solutions that will protect the future of Ontario’s public education system.

OSSTF/FEESO recognizes and celebrates all that teachers do – alongside other education
workers – for their students, their communities, and society at large. Thank you to all teachers
for your tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to shaping brighter futures for all!