QUEEN’S PARK — Ontario NDP Shadow Minister for Education Chandra Pasma (Ottawa West—Nepean) says it’s unacceptable that the school year is now in full swing, with no improvements to classrooms or new contract for teachers and education workers.
“Another school year is underway and it’s status quo,” said Pasma. “Our kids are still in class sizes that are too large for them to get the attention they need. We still don’t have enough teachers or education workers in schools. Special education is crumbling, and so are the buildings kids are learning in.
“Doug Ford and Minister Calandra spent their extended summer vacation continuing their years-long attack on public education, instead of using that time to make things better. The Minister promised a new contract would get done. He failed to deliver, and now the year begins with uncertainty for everyone.
“Teachers and education workers wanted early bargaining. Instead, the Emperor of Education gave them gift cards to buy school supplies exclusively from an American company — at higher prices — during a trade war.
“This is not a serious government, and their refusal to properly fund our education system shows it.”