Kawartha Pine Ridge teacher Shirley Bell was elected first vice-president of the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO) at today’s Annual Meeting. Bell has served as ETFO vice-president since 2021.

“ETFO members are overstretched and burnt out from working in high-stress environments. Now more than ever, we need a union that reflects our realities and renews our sense of purpose and connection,” says Bell. “I will lead with integrity, courage, and a commitment to ensuring every member feels seen, heard, and valued. Together, we will stay strong, mobilized, and united in defending public education and the rights of educators.” 

Bell began her teaching career in 2005 with the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board after graduating with a bachelor of arts from Trent University and a bachelor of education from Queen’s University. She began her union work as a school steward, joined the local’s Social Justice Committee and became local vice-president (female) in 2013. Locally, she served on the collective bargaining and status of women committees and was elected president of the Kawartha Pine Ridge Teacher Local in 2015. 

Provincially, Bell has served on the Collective Bargaining Advisory Council Task Force, Professional Collaboration Task Force, Budget Committee, and chairs ETFO’s Donations Committee, Long Term Disability Governance Board, and Selection Committee. She is also a liaison to 14 provincial standing committees. Bell serves on the Ontario Federation of Labour’s Executive Board, and is an Ontario Teachers’ Federation governor and fellow.

ETFO represents approximately 83,000 members, including public elementary teachers, occasional teachers, designated early childhood educators, education support personnel, and professional support personnel. Visit BuildingBetterSchools.ca.