A group representing educators in Waterloo Region gathered last week to discuss the results of a survey on classroom violence.
It asked the region’s teachers and education assistants about their experiences, and the findings are concerning.
Over 1,100 educators responded and almost all, 99 per cent, said they had experienced violence in the classroom. More than half said they felt unsafe at school and over 70 per cent said they don’t believe children feel safe at school.
The survey was conducted by the unions that represent educators at both local school boards, which shows the issues are widespread.
The overwhelming takeaway was that chronic underfunding has forced school boards to eliminate many mechanisms to support kids with mental health or complex needs. The lack of those supports, along with the continuing effects of the pandemic has led to the situation the education system finds itself in.