Around OECTA
May 2024
From Your Local Unit
President's Message
Hello Teachers of Hamilton-Wentworth.
Happy Almost June! We have arrived at that time of year.
Your Local Collective Bargaining Team is pleased to announce that we have reached a tentative agreement with the HWCDSB on a local collective agreement.
There were many hours of work that went into preparing and negotiating this local agreement. Together with our ratified Central Agreement, once our local agreement is ratified, we will have a fully ratified collective agreement for 2022-2026.
When we have ratified, we await the arbiters decisions regarding the outstanding items from our central terms including salary adjustments.
Details for the information night and ratification process were sent out in a member's email on Friday, May 31st. Agreement details will be sent out the first week in June.
The office has been swirling this month with transfers, committee meetings, retirements, and collective bargaining. It has been busy. We appreciate your consideration if it takes longer to respond to emails and phone calls. Needless to say, the office is working hard on your behalf.
This time also marks the start of Pride Month. In that spirit, we celebrate the diversity of our school communities. As Catholic educators, we are committed to fostering an environment of peace, respect, and compassion for all. We believe that our shared humanity transcends differences, and we strive to create a safe and welcoming space for everyone, especially our students, teachers, and staff who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+.
June is also National Indigenous History Month.
As we honour and celebrate the invaluable contributions of Indigenous Peoples, we must continue to champion discussions of the rich histories and experiences of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples and the need for true and meaningful reconciliation – not just this month, but throughout the year.
The unit held its Annual General Meeting on May 22nd at St. Naum’s. Those in attendance were treated to a nice meal as well as speeches from candidates running for Unit Executive positions. The membership elected our executive for school year 2024-2025. See results below in the newsletter for a listing of next year’s executive. Congratulations to all and a sincere thank you to our outgoing executive members.
At AGM 2023 the membership approved the creation of an Equity position on local unit executives. This position would be open to members who identified as belonging to one or more equity deserving groups. Our unit executive voted to solicit applications from the unit membership to fill the position of Equity Councillor for the school year 2024-2025. At the May Executive Meeting, the executive selected from the applicants. I’m happy to announce that Mary Grunda was selected to the position of Equity Councillor for 2024-2025. Please welcome her to our Unit Executive for next year.
I’d also like to call all teachers – veterans and newcomers alike! Do you want to continue shaping the future of our Association and connect with colleagues? Consider joining one of our many local OECTA committees next year. These committees tackle important issues and need your unique voice. Whether you bring years of experience or a fresh perspective, your ideas and enthusiasm are valuable. Visit our website to look at the different committees and find contact information. Still unsure which one is the best fit? Give us a call at the office – we'd love to chat and help you find your perfect committee!
The finish line is in sight! Before you fully disconnect, enjoy these last few weeks connecting with your students and colleagues. Continue to find the joys in life.
Be well,
Josh
Important Upcoming Dates
OECTA-HW Celebrates Pride Month
As we embrace the vibrant and inclusive spirit of Pride Month, we joyfully come together to celebrate and uplift one another, especially our students. Pride Month is a time when we recognize and honour the diverse identities and experiences that enrich our communities.
During this month, we cherish the contributions and achievements of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, acknowledging the struggles they have faced and the progress that has been made towards equality. We strive to create an environment where all students, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, feel valued, supported, and empowered to be their authentic selves. By celebrating each other's unique journeys and fostering a culture of acceptance, we cultivate a sense of belonging that is fundamental to individual growth and collective well-being. We commit ourselves to promoting understanding, empathy, and love, rejecting discrimination and prejudice in all forms.
As Catholic educators, we recognize the importance of creating safe spaces where students can thrive academically, emotionally, and socially. We affirm our dedication to providing comprehensive and inclusive education., where all feel loved. During this month, let us join hands, stand tall, and advocate for a world where every individual is celebrated, respected, and embraced for who they are. Together, we inspire a future generation that values diversity, compassion, and equality, nurturing a society where everyone can flourish and shine their brightest.
During this month, let us join hands, stand tall, and advocate for a world where every individual is celebrated, respected, and embraced for who they are. Together, we inspire a future generation that values diversity, compassion, and equality, nurturing a society where everyone can flourish and shine their brightest.
All Pride With No Prejudice: We Celebrate Pride Month With an Inclusive Event
Get ready to celebrate diversity, inclusion, and love as we embrace the spirit of Pride Month! The 2SLGBTQIA+ Allies Committee is thrilled to host all members for an on-line anonymous get together. This will be an inclusive and safe space for all members to feel loved, a place to celebrate our diversity, a place to share our triumphs, and voice our concerns in a completely anonymous and supportive setting. More information to follow shortly!!
Happy Pride Month!
The 2SLGBTQIA+ Allies Committee
Teacher Transfer Process Updates
OECTA-HW Unit Executive 2024-2025
On Wednesday, May 22, 2024, elections took place as part of our unit's General Meeting. For the 2024-2025 school year, the unit executive will be composed of...
President - Josh Mamer
1st Vice-President - Alison Coyle
2nd Vice-President - Paul Kiely
3rd Vice-President - Lori Bell
Treasurer - Erin O'Neill
Recording Secretary - Laura Mostacci
Councillors - Joe Clinton, Larry Finocchi, Stephen Hume, Sherrie Savelli
Equity Councillor - Mary Grunda
Occasional Teacher Representative - Diane Giornofelice-Boyd
To each candidate who put their name forward, you are the beating heart of our union, and your willingness to stand up and be counted deserves our deepest appreciation. In a world where it's often easier to stay on the sidelines, you chose courage over comfort. Your passion and commitment to serving your colleagues shine bright, regardless of the election's outcome. So, to each candidate who took that leap of faith, we extend our sincerest thanks. Thank you for your courage, your passion, and your unwavering commitment to serving others.
25 Years of Service and Retirement Celebration
On the evening of May 29, we gathered as an assembly of colleagues, family, and friends to honour and commemorate the remarkable career milestones of several OECTA-HW teachers at our annual Retirement Celebration event. The celebration was an enchanting evening filled with heartfelt tributes, laughter, and fond memories. All the best to our graduating class of 2024 in their retirement.
Please click on the graphic below to view the slide deck from the ceremony.
From the Treasurer's Desk
Cashing Cheques
With so much personal banking now being done over our cell phones, increasingly cheques are inadvertently being cashed two (or more) times. This results in problems later on while reconciling the bank statement. To assist the unit in maintaining its books, members are asked to cash any OECTA-issued cheques ASAP (and within 6 months). Be sure to write "void" or "cancel" on cheques cashed using digital banking platforms.
Also important to know is that OECTA-HW has switched banks. Any outstanding cheques issued under Tandia Credit Union will not be honoured. Reach out to the office with questions or concerns.
Deadline for Submission: June 19, 2024
2023-2024 Expenses and Mileage
All expenses and mileage claims (for union business) must be sent to the OECTA office by June 19th. Any expenses and mileage related to a specific committee must be signed for by the committee chairs using the appropriate mileage form before submitting to the office.
Deadline for Submission: June 19, 2024
Article 8.02 Mileage Claims
Each school will be provided with an annual allowance, which will be used by the Principal to reimburse Teachers who use their automobiles as a result of their involvement in extracurricular activities.
This allowance shall be calculated in the following manner:
i) Total number of frill-time equivalent students as at October 31 x 2.30 annual allowance
ii) No school shall receive less than $450 as an annual allowance.
These mileage claims are not directed to the OECTA office. Mileage related to Article 8.02A is submitted locally to your principal using the Article 8.02 Form.
Professional Development Fund
Funds from the OECTA Hamilton-Wentworth 2023-2024 budget have been set aside to assist members with costs associated with professional development opportunities such as AQ courses, conferences, and workshops. To take advantage of this opportunity, please complete the application form linked below.
Please Note:
$250.00 available per member per year (until the budget line is exhausted, first-come first-served)
Included: AQ courses, conferences, workshops, classes, including OT coverage for an absence to attend a course/conference/workshop etc. The content of the opportunity must be supportive of your teaching practice.
Excluded: Expenses like accommodations, mileage, books, technology, monthly subscriptions, etc.
Priority given to members who did not access the funds last year.
Documentation of completion and a copy of the receipt will be required to receive reimbursement.
PD must be completed between July 1, 2023- June 30, 2024.
Persons working for another board are not eligible.
Applications are subject to the approval of the PD committee.
PD funds for 2023-2024 are available until June 30th. After that time, any applications for funds will come from the following year's budget line.
Bowling Night Success
On Thursday May 16th, the Social Committee hosted its 12th annual OECTA-HW Bowling Night at Splitsville. It was an energetic evening filled with friendly competition, laughter, prizes and food. Congratulations to the 2024 winning team who bowled in tutus and proudly took the OECTA-HW Bowling Pin Trophy back to their school - the St. John the Baptist Magic Pinheads (Steve Pratt, Chris Defaria, Nadia DiMartino, Stephanie Burnett, Julia Spilotro).
A sincere thank you goes out to all members of the Social Committee who worked very hard behind the scenes and at events this year to bring the sense of community back to our members. Your dedication allowed for events such as Breakfast With Santa, Family Skating, and Bowling to be filled with camaraderie and joy. Committee members for 2023-2024 include: Lori Bell, Patty Campos-Besu, Michelle Demers, Lisa Fernandes, Paul Kiely, Josh Mamer, Erin O'Neill, Anna Pyz, Anthony Salvatore, and Sherrie Savelli.
Ideas for 2023-2024
The Social Committee wants to hear from you! We're always looking for new and exciting ideas for social events to draw members together and build the spirit of camaraderie within our unit. Think your idea is too outlandish? Toss it in, anyway. You never know where the committee might take things.
Promotional Material
Wouldn’t it be GRAND?
Enter to win our monthly prize of
$1,000 cash and the grand prize
of $3,000!
No purchase necessary. Open to all active and retired Ontario education members. Must be an Ontario resident, minimum 18 years of age to enter. Contest closes December 31, 2024. Selected winners must correctly answer a skill-testing question. Full contest rules at www.otip.com/contest-rules. Odds of winning depend on entries received by the draw date for the prizes.
Member Opportunities
Provincial Association Opportunities
Featured Articles
Click on article titles to read.Gender and sexuality resources
By Dr. Yvonne RunstedlerYvonne Runstedler is a Staff Officer in the Administration department at OECTA Provincial Office, with an AIDE-focused assignment.
By Alexandra Busch
Alexandra Busch is a guidance teacher at Pope John Paul II Elementary School in Thunder Bay, and a member of the Thunder Bay Elementary Unit.
By Sharon Giroux & Caroline Chikoore
Sharon Giroux is Vice-President of Equity on the Provincial Executive of the Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association.Caroline Chikoore is the Accessibility, Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity (AIDE) Lead at OECTA Provincial Office.
The Association is committed to advocacy on social justice issues. Every other year, we host the Educating for the Common Good conference. This year’s conference will be held on Thursday, October 3 to Friday, October 4 at the Westin Harbour Castle Hotel.
Conference participants will take part in an interactive and engaging opportunity, with discussion and workshops related to social justice, activism, unionism, faith, mental health and wellbeing, human rights, inclusion, diversity, and equity.
As always, attendees should be prepared to learn, come away with practical classroom supports, and have fun too!
Applications will be accepted until June 7.
Diversity is our strength, and the Association will endeavour to bring together a group of participants with a range of experiences and perspectives from across the province. Click here for additional details about the application process.
Summer Book Club
Picture this: Engaging discussions, new teaching ideas, and a supportive network. This isn't your average book club. OECTA's Summer Book Club offers members a chance to unwind with a great read, connect with colleagues, and discover fresh inspiration for the upcoming school year. Dive into a fantastic read and reignite your passion for education with meaningful and thought-provoking discussions with Teachers from across the province. If your summer reading list still has space, look no further. Sign up today!
Book Club participants will meet twice. Initially for a brief launch meeting and then again for a book talk. Participants are required to obtain their own copy of the book in advance of the launch meeting. Registration is required and space is limited.
Brother
by David Chariandy
With shimmering prose and mesmerizing precision, David Chariandy takes the reader inside the lives of Michael and Francis. They are the sons of Trinidadian immigrants, their father has disappeared, and their mother works double, sometimes triple shifts so her boys might fulfill the elusive promise of their adopted home….
Brother is a coming-of-age story propelled by the pulsing beats and styles of hip hop, Francis, the older of the two brothers, dreams of a future in music. Michael's dreams are of Aisha, the smartest girl in their high school whose own eyes are firmly set on a life elsewhere. But the bright hopes of all three are violently, irrevocably thwarted by a tragic shooting, and the police crackdown and suffocating suspicion that follow. With devastating emotional force David Chariandy, a unique and exciting voice in Canadian literature, crafts a heartbreaking and timely story about the profound love that exists between brothers and the senseless loss of lives cut short with the shot of a gun.” (Penguin Random House)
Launch Meeting: Wednesday July 3, 2024 (10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m.)
Book Talk Meeting: Wednesday August 7, 2024 (10:00 a.m.-noon.)
Love Lives Here
by Amanda Jetté Knox
An inspirational story of accepting and embracing two trans people in a family--a family who shows what's possible when you "lead with love."
All Rowan Jetté Knox ever wanted was to enjoy a stable life. She never knew her biological father, and while her mother and stepfather were loving parents, the situation was sometimes chaotic. At school, she was bullied mercilessly, and at the age of fourteen, she entered a counselling program for alcohol addiction and was successful.
While still a teenager, she met the love of her life. They were wed at 20, and the first of three children followed shortly. Jetté Knox finally had the stability she craved--or so it seemed. Their middle child struggled with depression and avoided school. The author was unprepared when the child she knew as her son came out as transgender at the age of eleven. Shocked, but knowing how important it was to support her daughter, Jetté Knox became an ardent advocate for trans rights.
But the story wasn't over. For many years, the author had coped with her spouse's moodiness, but that chronic unhappiness was taking a toll on their marriage. A little over a year after their child came out, her partner also came out as transgender. Knowing better than most what would lie ahead, Jetté Knox searched for positive examples of marriages surviving transition. When she found no role models, she determined that her family would become one.
The shift was challenging, but slowly the family members noticed that they were becoming happier and more united. Told with remarkable candour and humour, and full of insight into the challenges faced by trans people, Love Lives Here is a beautiful story of transition, frustration, support, acceptance, and, of course, love. (Penguin Random House Canada)
Launch Meeting: Thursday July 4, 2024 (10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m.)
Book Talk Meeting: Thursday August 8, 2024 (10:00 a.m.-noon.)
The Toronto Blue Jays are offering a discount to teachers and education workers for the 2024 season!
How to Access the Discount
Step 1 – Click HERE to access the teachers and education workers special offer.
Step 2 – Click on the Buy Tickets button. All eligible games are listed, and the discount has been automatically applied.
Step 3 – Use your school board email address when purchasing to verify your status as a teacher.
Step 4 – Enjoy the game!
Additional Offer Details
Discount valid for select games until September 28, up to 8 tickets per game.
For select games (listed on the site), receive 30% off tickets in select Corner Reserved, 200 Level and 500 Level seats.
Receive 15% off tickets for the remaining games in select Corner Reserved, 200 Level and 500 Level seats (excluding June 6, and July 1).
Offer subject to seat availability.
Promotional Material
Your opinions matter to us! Complete our short Spring Survey for a chance to WIN one of ten $50 gift cards* of your choice. But hurry, you only have until May 17, 2024: https://bit.ly/3TRvhX5. Brought to you by (please tag @Educators Financial Group on Facebook or @EducatorsFG on Twitter/Instagram).
