Around OECTA
Around OECTA
January 2025
January 2025
Embedded Files
In this issue...
In this issue...
From Your Local Unit
From Your Local Unit
President's Message
President's Message
Hello Teachers of Hamilton-Wentworth.
If there was something that could make this time of year any more of a challenge for you, Doug Ford’s Conservatives have called a Provincial election…16 months early!!
Amidst the uncertainty at the Federal level, Doug Ford has used the distraction to slip an unnecessary and fiscally irresponsible provincial election onto the calendar for next month!
For months, the Conservatives have been taking advantage of their own Elections Finances Act to pour public money into their messaging. Now with an election ahead, this same Elections Finances Act limits and stifles the voices of those who would oppose him.
We believe Ontarians will see through this. With that said, Doug Ford cannot silence our one true power, our vote.
This Provincial election is scheduled for Thursday, February 27.
We need to have our voices heard. We need each vote.
Regardless of your political leanings, ask yourself the following questions;
Has public education improved under Doug Ford?
Have public services (i.e. Health care) improved under Doug Ford?
Can we continue on this path of education cuts (amounting to $1500 per student per year, since 2018)?
Will his one-time $200 ‘gimmick’ cheque, costing the province $3 billion dollars be enough to sway your vote?
Will our next round of collective bargaining be another drawn out and frustrating process?
Will a Conservative government attack our sick days in the next round of bargaining?
Can we do better?
In the coming days and weeks, the unit office will be working to provide information on the election. What can you do to be informed?
Know who is running in your riding
Follow polling data (news, social media)
Read posts on social media
Follow candidates, journalists, and/or the Association on social media
Talk to your colleagues
Speak to five friends and family members about election issues
Speak to five friends and family members about voting
What can you do to be involved?
Vote early in advance polls and bring a friend
Vote on election day
Encourage friends and family to vote
Display a lawn sign and encourage friends and family to do the same
Engage in conversations by sharing your story with friends and family
Engage on social media by posting or sharing content
Donate to a party and/or candidate(s)
Volunteer on a local campaign (digital, phone, door-to-door canvassing)
Organize or join a canvass with colleagues and/or friends after work or on the weekend
Your voice matters. Research shows that teachers are respected at high levels within our society. More so than business owners, more than political leaders, and more than teacher union reps. Share your stories with those around you. You have an authentic experience in our schools. Your voice and your vote counts.
Important Upcoming Dates
Important Upcoming Dates
BREAKING: Government Cuts Hurt Students, Teachers Do Even More With Even Less
BREAKING: Government Cuts Hurt Students, Teachers Do Even More With Even Less
Over the past seven years, Ontarians have witnessed a concerning downward trend in the financial resourcing of our cherished collective trust - publicly funded education. Parents, students, Teachers, other education workers, and even school boards, have endured the double-speak of a pernicious Ford government which has dressed up cuts as record spending, all the while shortchanging the investments made into its most precious resource; the young people of our province.
Now exceeding $1500 per pupil annually*, funding cuts to education are playing out poorly in classrooms across Ontario: Increases to class sizes; Fewer Teachers and other caring adults in schools, back-dropped by increasingly diverse and complex learning needs; Inadequate special education funding; Rising violence and other dysregulated conduct; Schools in disrepair; Scarcity of learning resources; Professional development opportunities are extremely limited. The list goes on. Ultimately, these cuts compromise the learning environment and limit the opportunities available to Ontario's next generation.
There's no debating it - schools are expensive. And what was expensive several years ago is even more expensive today. But, whereas funding stood at approximately $14,700 per pupil in 2018, schools are forced to make do with only $13,200 per pupil in 2024. The calculus is pretty simple here. To make ends meet, services and resources in schools either need to cost less - inflation doesn't work that way - or there needs to be less services and resources. The maths are inescapable: with less funding available, schools are forced to make difficult choices that ultimately impact the quality of education able to be delivered.
*Core Education Funding in the 2024-2025 school year is around $1500 less per pupil compared to grants in the 2018-2019 school year, inflation adjusted. Source: Canadian Centre For Policy Alternatives
READ ALL ABOUT IT: Education Funding Down
You Get What You Pay For
You Get What You Pay For
Warren Buffet once quipped, "Price is what you pay, value is what you get," emphasizing the distinction between an asset's cost and its intrinsic worth, and highlighting the importance of looking beyond the sticker price to assess the underlying fundamentals of an investment. This principle holds true not just for financial investments, but also for the investments made into Ontario's public education system, into Ontario's future.
When each dollar of public education spending generates $1.30* in total economic impacts for Ontario, the case for investing in education is overwhelmingly clear. Yet, since 2018, the Ford government has perplexingly pursued policies that have defunded and destabilized Ontario's public education system. Frankly, the math just isn't adding up with these 'Conservanomic' policies.
Partisan commentary set aside, investing in our kids is something we should all see eye-to-eye on, no matter one's political stripe. True investment in public education is needed now, if not for an economic imperative, then certainly for a moral one.
*Each dollar of public education spending generates $1.30 in total economic impacts to Ontario. At the same time, the inverse holds true for each dollar taken from public education. Source: The Conference Board of CanadaFord Says Funding is Up, What Gives?
Ford Says Funding is Up, What Gives?
While the Ford government boasts of increased education funding, the reality is far more complex. Yes, budget lines have shown year-over-year absolute increases over the tenure of the Ford government, but have these increases kept pace with the rising cost of everything? The answer is a resounding no.
When adjusted for inflation, the true picture emerges: a pattern of underfunding that has eroded our world-class public education system. These aren't accidental cuts; they're calculated moves to undermine public trust in our schools. This "starve-the-beast" tactic is a well-worn path toward privatization, and we cannot let it succeed.
Further Reading
Vote For a Better Ontario
Vote For a Better Ontario
A strong publicly funded education system is the bedrock of a prosperous, caring, and engaged citizenry. To foster a society where all students can thrive, we must provide ample opportunities for them to develop into highly skilled, knowledgeable, and compassionate contributors. This requires more than just lip service; it demands robust investment to truly enhance student achievement, close achievement gaps, and bolster public confidence in our invaluable public education system. The time for action is now.
This election is a pivotal moment for Ontario. For too long, we've witnessed the erosion of vital public services, including our schools and healthcare system. We need leaders who understand the importance of these pillars of our society, and are committed to investing in them properly. Our schools are not just buildings; they are the foundation of our future where our children learn, grow, and develop the skills they need to succeed. We need a government that recognizes this and prioritizes adequate funding to ensure every student has access to a high-quality, publicly funded education.
Beyond funding, we need a government that respects Teachers and other education workers. They deserve a government that values their contributions, respects their expertise, and is willing to work with them to create better working conditions. It is time to elect an education-friendly government.
The Importance of Voter Engagement
The Importance of Voter Engagement
This election is about more than just choosing a government; it's about choosing a better future for Ontario. Students deserve better. Educators deserve better. Our communities deserve better. And, Ontario deserves better. The power to change course rests in your hands. Commit to vote.
To be fully prepared for E-Day, check your riding information today at Elections Ontario's website. Enter your postal code to get the most accurate information about where and when to vote.
Make a plan to vote! Cast your ballot on Election Day on February 27 or take advantage of advance polls or mail-in ballots and cast your vote early. In the 2018 election, Ford was elected with a majority government by only 18% of the eligible voters in Ontario! The voice of Ontario needs to speak loudly this time around. We cannot afford another 4 years of Doug Ford!
Look Up Your Riding Information Today
Look Up Your Riding Information Today
Funding Gaps by HWCDSB School, 2019-2025
Funding Gaps by HWCDSB School, 2019-2025
Note: The funding gap from the 2020-2021 school year was left at $0 (in comparison to 2018 levels) due to complexities involved in disaggregating COVID funding from grants for student needs. Significant injections of funding from the Federal Government did not include enveloping of funds to a particular purpose, making it difficult to determine which funding was directed to COVID measures as opposed to student educational needs. It is disingenuous, therefore, to include the 2020-2021 school year in these calculations, though given the evidenced trend, it is likely that there were cuts baked into the budget during that school year.
OCT Annual Membership Fee Payment
OCT Annual Membership Fee Payment
Much to our chagrin, the $200 fee must be paid in order to remain eligible to teach in Ontario. Permanent teachers who are working, have their fee deducted from their salary and the board remits two installments of $100 each from the first two pay periods in January, to OCT on your behalf. Occasional Teachers registered in an active LTO have one deduction of $200 from the first pay in January. At no other point in the year, will the board make these deductions so if your LTO begins in February, you are responsible for paying the fee to OCT.
When is the OCT fee not deducted from your pay?
If your LTO has not started by the first pay in January, your fee will not be deducted. You should ALWAYS check your pay stub in January to ensure the fee has been deducted, just in case you were not in the system as being in an active LTO.
If you have just returned from maternity/parental leave you may not be active in the system yet, so make sure to check your pay stub to ensure the OCT fee has been deducted.
If you are on a leave of absence, whether this is unpaid sick leave, maternity leave, etc. then you are not drawing a salary in January so the board does not have funds to remit to OCT on your behalf.
The board does not take the deduction(s) from daily occasional teachers.
In all of the above cases, teachers must make their annual membership fee payment directly to OCT. If you let your membership lapse there is an additional $130 reinstatement fee, plus the regular $200 charge.
Alison
First Vice-President
Minimize Your Retro Pay Tax Implications
Minimize Your Retro Pay Tax Implications
This tax season presents a unique situation for Ontario teachers due to retroactive payments stemming from the Bill 124 remedy and the new Collective Agreement. Canada's graduated tax system means higher earnings can push you into a higher tax bracket. Receiving your entire retroactive payment in 2024 could lead to a larger tax bill than if the payment were distributed across the years the income was earned.
Fortunately, if your retroactive lump-sum payment exceeds $3,000 (not including interest), you can utilize the T1198 form to allocate portions of the payment to prior tax years. School boards are required to complete this form for eligible employees and provide it with your 2024 T4. This form helps ensure the retroactive income is taxed at the appropriate rates for the years it pertains to.
To take advantage of this, your 2024 tax return must include the completed T1198 form, and you must request a special tax calculation from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). The T1198 form is due with your 2024 tax return by April 30, 2025.
Importantly, for occasional teachers, the Bill 124 remedy payment is not considered earnings under EI regulations and does not need to be reported as income for EI purposes. If you received EI benefits during the years affected by the retroactive pay, consult a financial planner or tax expert to understand the implications.
If you have questions about the tax implications of the Bill 124 and new Collective Agreementremedy payments, please seek advice from your tax consultant/financial advisor.
AGM Delegation
AGM Delegation
Each year, delegates from OECTA units across Ontario assemble at the Annual General Meeting, a democratic body shaping the course for the Association. The meeting's objectives include approving the planning and budget cycle and debating by-laws, policies, and procedures. Representatives from OECTA Hamilton-Wentworth contribute their voices and perspectives, ensuring that the decisions made reflect the will of our membership.
In March, a diverse group of professional educators from Hamilton-Wentworth will represent you at the Annual General Meeting in Toronto. Their varied backgrounds and experiences will surely enrich the discourse. A heartfelt thank you to all members who put forth their names for consideration in the delegate selection process. To those not selected this year, your engagement with OECTA is admirable. We encourage you to consider reapplying for the AGM 2026 delegation next year.
The unit executive has selected the following members to represent the Hamilton-Wentworth unit at AGM 2025. We extend our sincere thanks to all for your dedicated service.
Marcia Belgrave
Lori Bell
Daniela Caltagirone
Patricia Campos-Besu
Joe Clinton
Alison Coyle
Joanna Danesi
Laura Dehoog
Jeannette DiLiberto
Leah Facchin
Larry Finocchi
Mary Grunda
Jennifer Jobson
Joshua Mamer
Maria Marcuzzi
Clarerose Mascarenhas
Lora Merritt
Anthony Salvatore
Sherrie Savelli
Giuseppina Stumpo-Lutz
Margherita Susi
Natalie Williams
Marissa Woods
Retirement Planning
Retirement Planning
Preparing For Retirement
Preparing For Retirement
You don't have to be retiring this year to plan for your retirement! Members are encouraged to prepare for their big day several years out. As a recommendation, Teachers should consider attending a pension workshop near the beginning of their career, again sometime in the middle, and then once more again as their years in education draw to a close.
There are several upcoming opportunities for members to take advantage of. Consider attending one of the following:
April 8 - OECTA Pension Workshop
St. Naum's Church Hall (light dinner provided)
Given by OECTA Provincial staff.
This workshop focuses more on your Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan.
Various Dates - OTIP Financial Planning for Retirement
An in-person workshop is taking place on April 1st at Liuna Station. Space is limited so register early (light dinner provided).
See the list of offerings below. Registration links are included.
Topics include Retirement, Health, Dental, and Travel Plans
This workshop focuses more on financial planning in retirement and retirement benefits.
OTIP Financial Planning Workshops
OTIP Financial Planning Workshops
Starting to plan for retirement? This exciting transition also comes with a lot to consider. Join OTIP and Educators Financial Group for a free retirement workshop where you’ll learn more about:
Streams of retirement income and solutions to fill any gaps to help you make the most of your retirement (Pension, CPP, OAS, etc.)
The importance of proper financial planning for your retirement, and what you need to know when creating your estate plan
Managing your healthcare, drug and dental costs by choosing the best coverage to fit your needs. Don’t settle for a “one size fits all” approach to your health
Travelling worry-free with emergency medical coverage, trip interruption/cancellation, and 24-hour emergency assistance
Exciting health and wellness support programs, and ways to save money while doing the things you enjoy most
Protecting your loved ones, your home, and other possessions for when the unexpected happens
This free workshop is open to members and spouses. As a courtesy, refreshments will be provided when possible. Please note any dietary or accessibility requirements at time of registration. You will receive an email confirmation with more details when you register. OTIP reserves the right to cancel an event due to low registration numbers. If you have already registered, you will be notified of a cancellation at least 3 days prior to the event date.
If you have any questions about your registration, please email otipevents@otip.com.
Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan
Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan
Your OTPP and You
Your OTPP and You
Dreaming of a comfortable retirement? Your Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan can help make it a reality.
Whether wet behind the ears, or a seasoned veteran in teaching, learning about your Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan today can help you plan for your tomorrow. Valued at over $255 Billion CAD, and growing, your pension remains fully funded having generated returns of 9.3% since inception, and 7.3% over the past 10 years - your OTPP is a secure asset upon which you can build the retirement of your dreams.
As a defined benefit pension, the OTPP provides predictability in planning, ensuring that you will have a reliable and consistent source of income in your golden years. What's more? Grounded in socially responsible investment practices, your Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan is investing toward a future worth living in.
Visit OTPP.com to learn more about how your OTPP is investing to make a mark.
The Big Decision
The Big Decision
Ask any retired teacher, and they will tell you that the big day snuck up on them, and the decision to take the leap was not made without some trepidation and careful consideration. You're teaching in your first gig, working furiously just to keep your head above water; retirement is the last thing on your mind. You've got an entire career ahead of you, and so many young lives yet to influence in so many special ways. The next thing you know, you're approaching the end of your fruitful and rewarding teaching career, and it all happened in the blink of an eye! Is it the right time to go? Do I have enough money to retire? What else do I need to think about? So many of these questions, and more, are answered for you in your OTPP online account. Check it out today!
Continue Your Learning
Continue Your Learning
Service credit? Defined benefit plan? 85 factor? What's that all about? Join us at St. Naum's and/or Liuna Station in April to learn more about your pension and other financial planning considerations for your retirement. Consider the following links which provide useful information about your pension and other considerations to have before starting your retirement.
Review Your Pension
Update Your Profile
Check Your Buyback
Apply For Your Pension
...and More!
Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan
160 Front Street West, Suite 3200
Toronto, Ontario, M5J 0G4
Phone: +1-416-228-5900
Toll free: +1-877-812-7989
Fax: +1-416-730-5349
Email: inquiry@otpp.com
Termination of LTD Deductions
Termination of LTD Deductions
When a member reaches 30 years of pension service credit, their Long Term Disability "caps out." Further LTD deductions beyond that point are unnecessary - no need to pay for insurance from which one no longer benefits. Put that money back in your pocket by opting out of paying your LTD premiums.
There are 3 scenarios where a member would be advised to cancel their LTD payments:
Scenario 1: Eligible for a 60% Unreduced Service Pension
You are eligible for a 60% unreduced service pension now, or
You are eligible for a 60% unreduced service pension within the later of either the next 110 working days or the expiration of your sick leave credits.
Scenario 2: Retirement Date Within the Next 110 Working Days
Your scheduled retirement date is within the next 110 working days and you have notified both the Teachers’ Pension Plan and your board. (Letter required).
Scenario 3: You Have Recently Turned 65
You have reached the end of the month in which you turned 65, or
You will reach the end of the month in which you turn 65 within the later of either the next 110 working days or the expiration of your sick leave credits.
If you meet the criteria outlined in one of the three scenarios above, please complete the Long Term Disability cancellation form and then forward it to the unit office.
Promotional Material
Promotional Material
Simple ways to protect yourself against identity theft
Simple ways to protect yourself against identity theft
Identity theft involves stealing someone’s personal information with the intent to commit a crime, most often for financial gain. From drained bank accounts to poor credit ratings and even legal issues, identity theft can have profound implications. You can outsmart fraudsters by understanding the kinds of information they’re looking for and taking some simple yet effective steps to prevent identity theft.
Read more at www.otip.com/article189. #OTIPUpdate
Complete insurance solutions for the Ontario education community
Get personalized service and exclusive discounts for all your insurance needs. Plus, get a $20 gift card of your choice when you get a car or home quote! Get a quote or call 1-888-892-4935 and mention this offer.
From the Provincial Office
From the Provincial Office
Winter WebExperiences
Winter WebExperiences
What is a WebExperience?
What is a WebExperience?
An engaging new approach to professional development. Live and interactive online sessions designed and delivered by teachers for teachers – offering fun and innovative ideas and activities to support your curriculum delivery.
Open to all Kindergarten to Grade 12 Catholic teachers, WebExperience offers bite-sized professional development accessible from anywhere you are (with an internet connection).
Upcoming WebExperiences
Upcoming WebExperiences
Teaching Black Canadian History (Echoes of Resilience) – January 30
Faith & Wellness: A Daily Mental Health Resource – February 4
Promoting Character Development in Your Classroom and School Community – February 18
Exploring Kindergarten Mathematics – February 20
Classroom Management: Secondary and Elementary – February 22
New Year – New Learning! Assessment and Evaluation in K-12 Classrooms – February 25
The Complexities of Culture – March 1
Check out our library of archived sessions here!
Registration space is limited, so sign up today!
Rick Hansen Foundation: Free e-Course
Rick Hansen Foundation: Free e-Course
The Rick Hansen Foundation (RHF) is dedicated to creating a world without barriers for the more than eight million Canadians who have a disability. As part of our commitment to championing accessibility and inclusion, OECTA’s Professional Development department has partnered with the RHF to offer a subsidy to Catholic teachers to take their Educator Inclusion & Accessibility E-Learning course for free.
Course highlights:
Free with the subsidy
Self-directed so you can start, pause, and finish the course on your timeline
Approximately 4 hours of course material to complete
Closes at the end of February 2025
Certificate awarded upon completion
Young Authors Awards
Young Authors Awards
The 2024-25 Young Authors Awards/Prix Jeunes Écrivains is here! For 38 years, this exciting initiative has celebrated the creativity and literacy of students in Catholic schools across Ontario. Students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 are encouraged to submit their original works, including fiction, poetry, plays, and nonfiction in both English and French.
There are three levels of competition: school, unit, and provincial. The first-place winners at the school level advance to the unit level, and the first-place winners in each unit advance to the provincial competition. The provincial winners’ works are published in an anthology each year.
The deadline for schools to send entries to their local unit office is February 10.
Deadlines for Consideration
February 10 - School Deadline
Submitted to school-level Association rep
February 21 - Unit Deadline
Received at Association local unit office
March 3 - Provincial Deadline
Unit entries received at Association office
Winners are announced in June.
Applications to serve on the Provincial Selection Committee will open in February.
Please contact youngauthors@catholicteachers.ca with any questions you may have.
From the Ontario Teachers' Federation
From the Ontario Teachers' Federation
Supporting Exceptional Learners
Supporting Exceptional Learners
This free, two-part workshop will provide teachers with practical strategies to foster inclusive and supportive classrooms for students with diverse needs. Participants will engage with scenarios and share best practices that enhance student engagement. To enrich the learning experience, attendees are encouraged to bring a teaching partner or colleague. The sessions will also incorporate strategies for accommodating and modifying learning to meet individual needs. You may attend one or both parts of the workshop.
This workshop is most beneficial for teachers in their first five years.
WHEN
Part 1: Saturday, February 22, 2025, 10:00 a.m.—noon
Part 2: Saturday, April 5, 2025, 10:00 a.m.—noon
Registration for Part 2 will open on March 1, 2025. Priority will be given to those who participated in Part 1.
WHERE
Burlington Public Library–Central Branch
2331 New St, Burlington, ON L7R 1J4
Centennial Hall Room
COST
The workshop is open to OTF members and is offered for free.
Since space is limited, registration is on a first come first served basis. The deadline to register for Part 1 is Friday, February 7, 2025 @ 5:00 p.m.
OTIP Teaching Awards
OTIP Teaching Awards
The Ontario Teachers Insurance Plan (OTIP) and the Ontario Teachers’ Federation (OTF) are proud sponsors of the OTIP Teaching Awards.
For many years, these awards have recognized the excellence of our teachers in publicly funded education. There are three categories of awards: elementary school teacher, secondary school teacher and beginning teacher in the first five years of teaching. A teacher may be nominated by anyone – professional colleagues, students, parents, or the general public.
Nominations are now open for the 2025 awards. The deadline for receipt of nominations is March 31, 2025. Further information is provided at www.teachingawards.ca.
If you have any questions, please contact Jason Healey at OTIPAwards@otffeo.on.ca
It would be appreciated if you would highlight and promote these awards.
Thank you for your assistance in promoting the OTIP Teaching Awards program!
Promotional Material
Promotional Material
Important year-end financial planning deadlines and tips
Important year-end financial planning deadlines and tips
You work hard for your money. It’s time for your money to work hard for you.
Open and invest in a new TFSA, RRSP, FHSA, or Non-Registered Account at Educators Financial Group® and receive $100 to kickstart your savings journey.* Their team of financial experts are dedicated to providing personalized advice and guidance tailored to your unique needs.
Why choose Educators Financial Group?
Why choose Educators Financial Group?
Trusted by over 16,000 education members and their families
Dedicated financial advisor who will get to know your unique financial situation and goals
Invaluable educator-specific advice and support on an ongoing basis
Annual review and updates to your personal plan as your needs and goals change
Gratuity planning, cash flow management, retirement planning, debt consolidation, and more
®Educators Financial Group is a registered trademark of Educators Financial Group Inc.
* Terms and conditions apply. This offer is available only to new Educators Financial Group clients. Minimum $5,000 investment required in a new RRSP, TFSA, FHSA, or non-registered account. Offer ends February 28, 2025. Visit https://www.educatorsfinancialgroup.ca/100-offer-terms/ for full terms and conditions.
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