On October 5, World Teachers’ Day, the Elementary Teachers' Federation of Ontario (ETFO) recognizes the expertise and extraordinary commitment of teachers in Ontario and around the world. 

“Ontario’s teachers are at the heart of public education, bringing skill, compassion, and dedication to inspire learning and to help every student reach their potential,” says ETFO President David Mastin. “On World Teachers’ Day, we celebrate their impact and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring they have the resources and supports they need to help every student learn, grow, and succeed.”

ETFO encourages Ontarians to take a moment to thank teachers who have made a difference in their lives and to call on the government to invest in public education. Adds Mastin, “To help teachers and students succeed, the province must invest in smaller class sizes, improve and expand supports for all students (particularly those with special education needs), confront rising violence in schools, support equity and inclusion, and address the teacher recruitment and retention crisis that is leaving classrooms staffed with unqualified emergency replacements.”

World Teachers’ Day, celebrated annually on October 5, commemorates the adoption of the 1966 ILO/UNESCO Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers. It highlights the vital role teachers play in building inclusive, high-quality education systems. It is jointly organized in partnership with UNICEF, the International Labour Organization, and Education International.

ETFO represents approximately 84,000 members, including public elementary teachers, occasional teachers, designated early childhood educators, education support personnel, and professional support personnel. Visit BuildingBetterSchools.ca.