OSSTF/FEESO Celebrates Child Care Worker and Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Oct. 26, 2011) - On October 26^th, the Ontario Secondary School Teachers' Federation (OSSTF/FEESO) joins others across the province in celebrating Child Care Worker and Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day.

"This special day provides an opportunity to recognize the education, skills, commitment and dedication of early childhood educators and others working in early learning and child care programs," noted Ken Coran, President of OSSTF/FEESO. "The 2011 theme Inspiring Leaders Inspirants also highlights the important role these educators play in fostering the well-rounded development of our children and setting the stage for their successes in school and life."

"OSSTF/FEESO welcomed the recommendations on early learning and care programs for all children aged 0-12 made by Special Advisor Charles Pascal in his 2009 report With our Best Future in Mind," said Coran. "We will continue to support the new government in taking steps to implement and stabilize this comprehensive vision, and in acknowledging the expertise that Early Childhood Educators bring to this area."

"Today, I congratulate those ECEs who are now part of the education teams leading full-day learning for four and five year olds in elementary schools across the province. I also salute and thank the early childhood educators and childcare workers in early learning and care programs for children of all ages for the vital contribution they make to our children, our families and our communities."

OSSTF/FEESO, founded in 1919, has 60,000 members across Ontario. They include public high school teachers, occasional teachers, educational assistants, continuing education teachers and instructors, early childhood educators, psychologists, secretaries, speech-language pathologists, social workers, plant support personnel, university support staff, and many others in education.