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So a week before end of #OntEd school year, @Sflecce announced 3 scenarios for 2020-21 school year in response to #COVID19, on same day 2020-21 education funding was announced (3 months later than normal) but didn’t align with or cover costs of the 3 scenarios;
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Next day Minister tells a TV interview that he’s directed school boards to start September with blended/hybrid scenario but boards hadn’t received that direction formally;
Last week of school year, a new Gr1-8 math curriculum is announced for September implementation
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Last week of school year, a new Gr1-8 math curriculum is announced for September implementation
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Now during school summer break, memo sent to boards with rules for 2020-21 calendar approval (almost 4 months later than normal) & reported in media on Canada Day;
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Today media story from @Sflecce directly about de-streaming Gr9, suspensions in primary & hiring practices but no actual policy announcement, memo to #OntEd, implementation plan or funding.
A few thoughts...
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A few thoughts...
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A few thoughts:
1. After very challenging year, can we let students, their families, educators & support workers have some opportunity to actually have restful summer break;
2. We urgently need coherent, realistic, adequately resourced #OntEd educational strategy & linked plan /5
1. After very challenging year, can we let students, their families, educators & support workers have some opportunity to actually have restful summer break;
2. We urgently need coherent, realistic, adequately resourced #OntEd educational strategy & linked plan /5
3. The top priority must be ensuring a “back to school” plan that will protect students’ & staff health, safety & well-being plus ensure continued high quality teaching, learning & equity;
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4. Parents, students, educators are increasingly expressing concern, frustration, anxiety and now anger at govt; it’s palpable, important, must be listened to & collaborative, feasible integrated edu & childcare solutions developed, funded & supported for full implementation.
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5. Both new math curriculum & addressing discrimination, inequities & racism, inc de-streaming, have been under-development for a long time, are important & needed...
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5 cont. But to be successful, they require multi-year strategy & funding, pilots & phased implementationprofessional development, staffing (EAs, SEN, support), supporting resources & collaboration & co-development with #OntEd professionals & affected people & communities.
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6. For current “back to school” plan, 2:3 scenarios involve students not being in school full-time; at same time, childcare announcement is resulting in fewer childcare providers & places being available. This needs urgent attention.
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I know #OntEd boards & those working in edu & childcare are doing all they can to make things work to protect & support children, young people & families. I don’t want to add to anxiety & want to contribute constructively. We urgently need to advocate to @fordnation @Sflecce
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