Clear solutions available for Ontario’s teacher shortage

Editorial

Ontario is facing a devastating teacher shortage, and it is time for the Ontario government and school boards to take action.

First and foremost, funding must be increased to reflect inflation. Currently, there is a $6 billion shortfall in education funding. This makes it difficult to attract and retain qualified teachers and creates less than ideal classrooms.

In addition, there must be a return to consequences when students misbehave and disrupt the learning of others. Teachers need better support from school administration and board personnel when dealing with parents or guardians who do not support their decisions. More staffing and support must be put in place to deal with student violence before it occurs.

To attract more people to the teaching profession, there must be more university spots for teacher training, and the two-year teacher training program should be reduced to one year. Tuition for teacher’s college should be reduced or even made free, and rental subsidies should be provided for new staff trying to find accommodation. Finland, Iceland and Poland are three nations where even masters level and doctoral level education is free.

The certification process for internationally educated teachers and graduates from Ontario teacher education programs must be issued more quickly. As well, student teachers in Ontario education programs should be allowed to accept paid work in the classroom while still completing their degree.

Signing and relocation bonuses should be offered to new staff willing to work in rural boards to ensure we have an equitable distribution of teachers, too, across both urban and rural boards.

The teacher shortage in Ontario is a pressing issue that requires immediate action. By increasing education funding, providing better support for teachers, and making the teaching profession more attractive, we can ensure that our students have access to the best education possible.