GRAND VALLEY – A local Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO) representative says she is “optimistic” the conciliation method being taken by the union representing elementary school teachers will end in a new contract.
Due to the slow pace of bargaining, ETFO has applied for conciliation with the minister of labour, a process of bringing in a third party to work with both sides to find a resolution.
Krista Pedersen, president of Upper Grand ETFO, says there’s no question as to whether Upper Grand schools will open their doors to students next week.
Pedersen added teachers aren’t the only ones affected by a lack of support.
Pedersen reminds parents and young ones no work action can be taken until after strike voting, happening in mid-September and mid-October.
She maintains Upper Grand ETFO has a good relationship with the board.
ETFO’s goals can be found on their website, and areas of concern include teacher workload and working conditions.
