QUEEN’S PARK — Sol Mamakwa (Kiiwetinoong), the Official Opposition NDP Deputy Leader, raised the concerns of educators across the northwest during Question Period today.
“Under this government, the chronic underfunding in education has resulted in schools operating with $1500.00 less per student for the last six years.
"Lengthy wait times and professional supports only increase the probability and likelihood of education workers being hurt or harmed on the job. The crisis is real; we need a province-wide strategy to address the violence in schools and provide much-needed supports for students.
"These wait times are often the driving force behind why educators go home with bruises, concussions, and, in some cases, broken bones. And these are only the injuries that are visible on the outside. It doesn’t reflect the damage done on the inside to them or to the students who come to school ready to learn.
How does this government expect schools to deal with or provide services and education to students in the northernmost part of the province when families are being forced to endure lengthy wait times and travel for services because we don’t have those resources and supports near us?”
KEY FACTS:
- Four out of five ETFO members (80%) state there are more incidents of violence in schools since they started working in the Ontario public elementary school system
- 42% have suffered a physical injury, illness or psychological injury/illness as a result of workplace violence
- The severity of incidences has increased by 66%
- Violence as a growing problem in Ontario schools has increased by 80%