ETFO Calling for Mandatory Vaccinations for all School Staff

Wednesday, 18 August 2021 05:24

Delegates voted in favour of the mandatory shots at the annual ETFO meeting on Tuesday with provisions for exceptions.

ONTARIO - The Elementary Teachers Federation of Ontario is in favour of mandatory vaccinations for school staff ahead of the upcoming school year.

Delegates voted in favour of the mandatory shots at the annual ETFO meeting on Tuesday with provisions for exceptions. They also want the Ford Government to ensure appropriate measures are in place for a safe return to school. ETFO President Sam Hammond says the voluntary policy doesn't go far enough.

"The province’s voluntary disclosure policy does not go far enough to protect students and school staff. Given the severity and longevity of the global pandemic, it is not unreasonable for the Ford government to implement a mandatory vaccination policy in schools. Considering the increased risks the Delta variant poses to those who are unvaccinated, including children under 12, and with a concerning rise in the number of COVID-19 cases across Ontario, we must do everything we can to ensure the health and safety of all Ontarians; this includes mandating vaccines for all staff working in schools, with exceptions."

Other things the ETFO are calling for include the following.

- Lower class sizes to enable physical distancing;
- Maintain cohorting that limits interactions;
- Improve classroom/work site air exchange/ventilation;
- Mandate masking for all elementary students, including Kindergarten, unless medically exempted;
- Require confirmation of COVID-19 screening of staff and students;
- Provide on-site testing;
- Direct adequate safeguards for student transportation; and
- Mandate COVID-19 vaccination for school staff, with provisions for exceptions.

ETFO Calling for Mandatory Vaccinations for all School Staff

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