OSSTF/FEESO Welcomes New Legislation to "Make it Better" for Students and End Bullying and Intolerance

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Nov. 30, 2011) - (Toronto) "The Ontario Secondary School Teachers' Federation supports the Liberal Government's introduction of this new legislation. A safe and tolerant learning environment is extremely important to every student, parent and educational worker in our publicly funded school system and contributes greatly to a rich educational experience," stated Ken Coran, President of the Ontario Secondary School Teachers' Federation (OSSTF/FEESO). "All students need to feel that they are safe and respected at school and know that there are supports and staff to help them when they need it," Coran further added.

OSSTF/FEESO remains committed to promoting a greater understanding and knowledge of these issues in Ontario schools. "We look forward to the introduction of legislation that promotes tougher consequences for bullying and hate-motivated actions, that requires all schools to support students who want to lead activities that promote understanding, acceptance and respect for all as well as a requirement that school boards develop policies and guidelines that include greater supports for students. We look forward to working with the government, school boards, students and parents to implement the new initiatives if the legislation is passed," concluded Ken Coran.

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.