Ontario Schools in Crisis: Underfunding Sparks Violence and Burnout

Ontario Schools in Crisis Underfunding Sparks Violence and Burnout

Ontario Schools in Crisis: Underfunding Sparks Violence and Burnout

The education system in Ontario is facing a serious crisis, and it's getting worse by the day. A recent survey of over 12,000 education workers—including Educational Assistants, Early Childhood Educators, Child and Youth Workers, custodians, maintenance staff, and school secretaries—has revealed a disturbing reality. Severe underfunding and chronic understaffing are not just making their jobs harder; they’re putting students and staff at risk.

The survey, conducted by CUPE’s Ontario School Board Council of Unions (OSBCU), paints a dire picture. Staff across all classifications are struggling with overwhelming workloads, while essential student needs go unmet. School offices are stretched thin, cleaning and maintenance are neglected, and the lack of support is leading to an alarming increase in violence.

Joe Tigani, president of the OSBCU, didn’t hold back when addressing the crisis. He pointed directly at the Ontario government, stating that years of budget cuts have left the education sector in shambles. "The Ford government has abandoned education," he said. "Students deserve better, parents deserve better, and education workers deserve better."

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The numbers are shocking. Almost 60% of Educational Assistants and Child and Youth Workers experience violent incidents every single day. A staggering 91% of them work with students who need one-on-one support but don’t receive it. And across the board, 77% of all respondents reported dealing with violence or disruption in their workplaces.

This isn't just about numbers—it's about the real-life consequences of an education system stretched to its breaking point. When students lack support, their learning environment suffers. When staff are overworked and burned out, they can’t provide the quality of education that Ontario's children deserve. Schools are supposed to be safe places for learning and growth, but instead, they are becoming battlegrounds for survival.

CUPE education workers across the province are demanding urgent action. They are calling on the Ford government to immediately increase funding for school boards, ensure proper staffing levels, and address the crisis of violence. The situation cannot continue as it is—without serious investment, both students and workers will continue to pay the price.

This is more than just an education issue. It’s about the future of Ontario’s children. It’s about respect for the people who dedicate their lives to supporting them. And it’s about holding the government accountable for the well-being of our schools. The question now is: Will the Ford government listen?

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