Peel Occasional Teachers Collective Agreement

The Peel Occasional Teachers Collective Agreement – What You Need to Know

The Peel District School Board (PDSB) in Ontario, Canada employs several occasional (supply) teachers on a contractual basis. These teachers do not have a permanent position and work only when required to cover for absent teachers. For the benefit of the occasional teachers and the PDSB, a collective agreement is in place that outlines the rights, responsibilities, and conditions of employment of these teachers.

Introduction to the Collective Agreement

The Peel Occasional Teachers Collective Agreement (POTCA) is a legally binding document between the PDSB and the Peel Elementary Occasional Teachers’ Local of the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (PEOTL-ETFO). The agreement was last ratified in 2020 and has a term of four years from September 1, 2019, to August 31, 2023.

Scope of the Agreement

The POTCA applies to all occasional teachers employed by the PDSB, including those engaged in long-term assignments covering for teachers on extended absences. The agreement covers various aspects of employment, including rates of pay, benefits, professional development, and grievance procedures.

Compensation and Benefits

Occasional teachers are paid an hourly rate based on their qualifications and experience. The rate varies from $43.96 to $51.94 per hour, depending on the category of the occasional teacher. For example, a teacher who has a bachelor’s degree and a teacher’s certificate but has not completed additional qualifications would be paid $48.11 per hour.

Occasional teachers who work for more than ten consecutive days in a single assignment are eligible for benefits, including sick leave, dental and vision care, and life insurance. They are also entitled to pension contributions from the PDSB.

Professional Development

The PDSB provides opportunities for occasional teachers to enhance their professional skills through workshops, training sessions, and other professional development programs. The POTCA recognizes the value of ongoing professional learning and encourages occasional teachers to participate actively in such activities.

Grievance Procedures

If an occasional teacher feels that their rights have been violated or their terms of employment have been breached, they can follow the grievance procedure outlined in the POTCA. The procedure involves a series of steps, including informal discussions with the principal, filing a formal grievance, and presenting the case to an arbitrator if necessary.

Conclusion

The Peel Occasional Teachers Collective Agreement is a comprehensive document that outlines the terms of employment of occasional teachers at the Peel District School Board. It provides a fair and transparent framework for occasional teachers and the PDSB to work together in providing high-quality education to students. As an occasional teacher, it is essential to be familiar with the provisions of the POTCA to ensure that your rights and interests are protected.