BEING PART OF ETFO: WHAT’S IT ALL ABOUT?

Being an ETFO member means that you belong to the largest teachers’ federation in Canada. Since 1998, ETFO has been a leader in setting the standard for fair salaries and benefits, as well as improved working conditions for Ontario’s elementary public school teachers and other education professionals. ETFO is strong because of the participation of its 76,000 members in ETFO activities, including collective bargaining.

For more information about ETFO’s structure and organization, click here.

The Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO) is the professional and protective organization representing over 76,000 teachers, occasional teachers, and education professionals employed in the public elementary schools of Ontario. All public elementary teachers in Ontario are active members of ETFO provincially, and also a member of one of its 75 locals across the province.

ETFO strives to develop programs and services that both protect and enhance the working lives of its members in these challenging times for education. It works continuously to provide an environment that celebrates the diversity of its members and the students in their care. In addition to its internal work in support of members, ETFO reaches out to the broader community to foster a climate of social justice in this province and beyond.

Solidarity is recognized as a fundamental characteristic of unions and union members. Solidarity means to stand together in support of each other and speaking with one voice through ETFO.
During collective bargaining, solidarity among ETFO members is invaluable – the sound of over 76,000 voices speaking together can and does have a powerful impact at the bargaining table. Strong statements of solidarity from ETFO members, particularly about bargaining, serve as proof of member cohesiveness and support for the Federation. This often speeds up the bargaining process and results in improved collective agreements for members.