The Campaign to Build Better Schools
Having the resources and supports kids need at public school has always been important, but this is especially true today. Kids are going through a lot and, with overcrowded classrooms and more class complexity, many of their needs are going unmet.
As parents and educators, we want the best start for our kids. That’s our priority and that’s why we’re campaigning for smaller classes and better public schools.
It shouldn’t be this way.
It’s time for the Ford government to invest in our kids – by investing in public schools.
What’s happening?
$6.35B
been cut from public education since 2018
Class sizes are
GROWING
70K+
kids waiting for autism supports
77%
of ETFO members say they have personally experienced violence or witnessed violence against another staff member
95%
of schools need MORE mental health supports
Our schools are suffering from chronic underfunding, under-resourcing, and understaffing, creating overcrowded classroom where student needs are going unmet.
We need the provincial government to value public education – and invest in it.
Spot
the student
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One of the consequences of underfunding is that class sizes are getting bigger – and our kids are paying the price. Educators identify small classes as the most important factor in their ability to work individually with students and meet their diverse needs.
When classes are overcrowded, teachers can't give students the time they each deserve.
Research shows that smaller classes mean:
- More one-on-one time for every student
- Fewer unmet needs and safer classrooms
- More time for teachers to prep and deliver creative learning experiences
- More student engagement and achievement – especially in the early years
Smaller classes would make a big difference for our kids.
Students feel it, parents see it.
A recent survey commissioned by ETFO* found that 80 percent of parents with school-aged children believe that the Ford government's cuts to public schools are hurting students. And more than 67% of Ontarians agree: when it comes to public schools, the provincial government should increase funding.
This study shows that parents are worried about: large class sizes, increasing violence, lack of mental health supports and long waits for special education supports.
*Survey conducted by Viewpoints on behalf of ETFO, June 2024, Province-wide Ontario with 1,208 respondents, Margin of error +/- 2.82%, 19 times out of 20.
Together, we can pressure the government to invest in public schools.
Our kids have waited long enough. They can't wait another year. Students need:
- Smaller classes so they get more one-on-one time
- Special education supports and timely access to resources and assessments
- More supports for kids' mental health
Tell the Ford government to get serious about tackling overcrowded classrooms.
You can find resources to help you speak out on our Take Action page.