Ontario’s Education Minister says contract talks with the union representing the educators and other support workers in the education system will start soon.
The unions have been calling for an early start to negotiations, instead of waiting until after contracts expire.
Currently, contracts come to an end at the end of August.
Paul Calandra says he also wants to avoid any disruption to a new school year.
“The ultimate goal is to keep kids in the classroom in September. I know that’s what our educators want. We will be working all summer to do that,” says Calandra.
Some of the union’s key issues include recruitment and retention of staff, smaller class sizes, and further resources for students and educators.
Calandra is anticipating some tough negotiations, but is optimistic a deal with the unions can be reached before the next school year begins.
“They want the absolute best deal for the people that they represent, and they’re going to fight very, very hard for that,” says Calandra.
“I want the same thing for teachers. I want the absolute best for teachers, and I want a fair deal for taxpayers. And I think we’re going to get there.”
