Queen’s Park Proposing More Educator Requirements

The province is proposing changes that they say will help keep kids safer and smarter in the classroom.

The PC government is proposing amendments that would require that any educator guilty of committing any form of sexual abuse on a student lose their certificate of registration. “These changes will provide assurance to parents that the government is committed to ensuring Ontario continues to have one of the best education systems in the world,” said Lisa Thompson, Minister of Education. “This legislation will help to make sure students are prepared for the realities of tomorrow and the changing global economy.”

The proposed changes would also give those students claiming abuse access to finances for counselling and therapy. “By making these changes, we are sending out a clear message: the government has zero tolerance for sexual abuse of Ontario students and children. We are taking action now to make sure our schools and early years and child care settings are safe learning environments,” added Thompson.

These amendments would also mandate new teachers complete a math knowledge test before getting a teaching registration.