Teacher Talk: An ETT Podcast

Episode 7: Bargaining Update with Laura McCoy

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Episode 7: Bargaining Update with Laura McCoy

In Episode 7 of "Teacher Talk: An ETT Podcast," host Pav Wander sits down with Laura McCoy, Executive Officer for Ward 6 and 11, Chief Negotiator, and Executive Liaison to the Collective Bargaining Committee for the Elementary Teachers of Toronto (ETT). Laura provides an in-depth look into the current state of collective bargaining for the ETT, sharing valuable insights into the process, goals, and ways members can get involved.

Introduction to Laura McCoy:

  • Laura's background as a teacher with 23 years of experience, primarily teaching art to intermediate students.
  • Her extensive involvement in the union and her current role as chief negotiator and executive officer.

    • The Bargaining Process:

    • Overview of the collective bargaining process, starting with a survey of ETT members to identify key issues.
    • Crafting bargaining proposals and the preliminary submission, which is then voted on by the membership.

      • Current Bargaining Goals:

      • Focus on improving working conditions to retain quality teachers and enhance the public education system.
      • Key issues include the definition of consultation, surplus and transfer processes, addressing toxic work environments, and securing better resources and professional development for teachers.
      • Efforts to reduce classroom violence and ensure proper payback for missed prep time.

        • Importance of Member Involvement:

        • Encouragement for members to attend ETT meetings, join committees, and participate in actions like "Red for Ed" days.
        • How visible solidarity, such as wearing red on bargaining days and participating in walk-ins, supports the bargaining process.

          • Status of Current Negotiations:

          • Explanation of the slow progress due to the dual-tier bargaining process and initial delays.
          • Recent improvements in the negotiation process with increased engagement from the TDSB bargaining team.
          • Upcoming bargaining dates and the hope for resolution by the end of the school year.

            • How to Stay Informed:

            • Members can stay updated through bargaining bulletins, the ETT weekly newsletter, social media, and ETT meetings.

              • Final Thoughts:

              • Laura emphasizes the importance of ongoing member involvement and community support to strengthen the union’s position.
              • Encourages members to continue discussing bargaining issues within their schools and communities to garner broader support.
                • Rate, review, and subscribe to "Teacher Talk" on your favorite podcast platform.
                • Visit the ETT website for additional resources and information on upcoming events.
                • Engage with the educational community through social media and email to suggest topics and questions for future episodes.

                  • If you'd like to reach out to the hosts of "Teacher Talk," or with any of the guests featured on the podcast, please send an email to [email protected].

                  "Teacher Talk: An ETT Podcast" is a Chey and Pav Educational Services, Inc. Production.


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                  Teacher Talk: An ETT PodcastBy ETT TeacherTalk