COVID-19 Update, Distance Learning and Strike Pay Cheques

Due to the rapidly evolving COVID-19 outbreak, the Ontario government announced that schools and child care centres will remain closed to protect the health and safety of students and staff. This extension is being made on the advice of the Chief Medical Officer of Health. Public schools will remain closed to teachers until Friday, May 1, 2020, and to students until Monday, May 4, 2020. ETFO and PETL are responding to new information as it becomes available.

Distance Learning
In an effort to identify those most in need, teachers are expected to contact families to better understand their technology needs. PETL members are expected to contact families, by email or phone, to determine their technology needs. A template email and phone script have been provided by the board. Members will begin their distance learning programs on April 6th.

We understand that members have questions about the rollout of the E-Learning platform. PETL will be providing updates for our members and if you have questions please contact your VP Liaison.

Strike Pay Cheques
By this time members should have received two strike pay cheques. The first cheque was delivered by your steward and the second cheque was mailed to member’s home address during the March Break and two week school closure.

Members can update their ETFO member information at: http://etfo.ca/supportingmembers/memberinfo/pages/updatememberinfo.aspx or by contacting Member Records at 1-888-838-3836 or trecords@etfo.org.

If you have received a strike pay cheque for the incorrect amount, please report the error at: https://forms.gle/ir1zyU4VqUGqhn3cA .

The form does ask for your ETFO number. PETL does NOT have your number. It is located on your ETFO card and is also on your strike pay cheque.

Members can stay informed about the upcoming ratification vote ongoing ETFO bargaining and Ministry/Board responses to the COVID-19 crisis by checking their email and visiting the PETL, ETFO, and PDSB websites.

Stay safe and healthy.