Episode 7: Bargaining Update with Laura McCoy

In Episode 7 of "Teacher Talk: An ETT Podcast," host Pav Wander sits down with Laura McCoy, Executive Officer for Ward 6 and 11, Chief Negotiator, and Executive Liaison to the Collective Bargaining Committee for the Elementary Teachers of Toronto (ETT). Laura provides an in-depth look into the current state of collective bargaining for the ETT, sharing valuable insights into the process, goals, and ways members can get involved.

Introduction to Laura McCoy:

• Laura's background as a teacher with 23 years of experience, primarily teaching art to intermediate students.


• Her extensive involvement in the union and her current role as chief negotiator and executive officer.

The Bargaining Process:

• Overview of the collective bargaining process, starting with a survey of ETT members to identify key issues.


• Crafting bargaining proposals and the preliminary submission, which is then voted on by the membership.

Current Bargaining Goals:

• Focus on improving working conditions to retain quality teachers and enhance the public education system.


• Key issues include the definition of consultation, surplus and transfer processes, addressing toxic work environments, and securing better resources and professional development for teachers.


• Efforts to reduce classroom violence and ensure proper payback for missed prep time.

Importance of Member Involvement:

• Encouragement for members to attend ETT meetings, join committees, and participate in actions like "Red for Ed" days.


• How visible solidarity, such as wearing red on bargaining days and participating in walk-ins, supports the bargaining process.

Status of Current Negotiations:

• Explanation of the slow progress due to the dual-tier bargaining process and initial delays.


• Recent improvements in the negotiation process with increased engagement from the TDSB bargaining team.


• Upcoming bargaining dates and the hope for resolution by the end of the school year.

How to Stay Informed:

• Members can stay updated through bargaining bulletins, the ETT weekly newsletter, social media, and ETT meetings.

Final Thoughts:

• Laura emphasizes the importance of ongoing member involvement and community support to strengthen the union’s position.


• Encourages members to continue discussing bargaining issues within their schools and communities to garner broader support.

• Rate, review, and subscribe to "Teacher Talk" on your favorite podcast platform.


• Visit the ETT website for additional resources and information on upcoming events.


• Engage with the educational community through social media and email to suggest topics and questions for future episodes.

If you'd like to reach out to the hosts of "Teacher Talk," or with any of the guests featured on the podcast, please send an email to teachertalk@ett.on.ca.

"Teacher Talk: An ETT Podcast" is a Chey and Pav Educational Services, Inc. Production.

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