I am a parent of 2 young children in public school as well as an elementary school teacher for TDSB.

From many years of experience as a teacher I'm extremely concerned about the proposed change to place LTO's and Supply teacher in the classroom based on seniority and removing the school administration and teacher's ability to choose the person best suited for the job.

Having a good supply teacher in my classroom makes a world of difference for my students, it truly does. For instance, if I cannot have a say in the supply teacher that comes into my classroom I'll reconsider whether school sports teams I coach should participate in any meets or tournaments during school hours. Because while a few student on a sport team benefit, a whole class of students I leave behind loose a day of learning and have a negative experience without a good supply teacher. When a good supply teacher who is familiar to the students comes in the class a day of learning is not lost and students do not suffer. When do you think a lot of bullying goes on at school? Answer: when there is a teacher in the room that doesn't care enough, often a supply teacher. "Let us pick the people that work in our schools!" If you think just anyone can manage a classroom think again, it actually takes a lot of skill, kids deserve the best teachers we have!

Furthermore my son's grade 2 teacher will be going on a mat. leave in December so he will have an LTO for most of the year. I'm so upset knowing the next person on the seniority list could be slotted into his classroom. Why can't the Principal choose a the best available teacher suited for the position and particular class?

Minister Broten, YOU are putting your BUDGET first, NOT the Students.

Sincerely a concerned parent