This past week, fed. reps. received enough copies of our NEW ETFO-WR Safe Space Poster for every contract teacher member at your site

Our local union has developed this resource for you and your students.  It's an important symbol that tells staff, students, and their families that they are valued and welcome in our schools and in each and every classroom.

It is also a handy teacher resource filled with ideas, dates, and quick tips to help you make your learning space more inclusive and affirming.

Step #1: Put it up with your students!

Symbols speak loudest when they are acknowledged.  Take a few minutes to put the poster on the wall of your classroom and get your students to help.  Talk about why you are putting it up and what it means.

Sample conversation starters could include:

• What do you think the rainbow check mark represents?
• Why do we want our classroom to be a safe and positive space?
• What are some of the ways that each of us is different?  And why are our differences so valuable?
• What connections can you make to this poster?

Step #2: Read the teacher tips.

The second half of the poster is meant for educators.  It’s a reminder about important dates, provides suggestions for inclusive language, offers a framework for teaching how to stand up against acts of bullying, and much more.  Don’t feel pressure to use it all at once. Pick one thing off the list and get started today!

Step #3: Talk about it!  Share about it!

Share what you are doing with the resource poster.  Ask your colleagues about their own experiences and best classroom inclusion strategies.  Post your ideas and pictures to share with others. Tag @etfowaterloo or user the hashtags #etfowr and #ETFOPink on Instagram and Twitter.

Do you have questions?  Do you need more posters?  Contact Ryan Wettlaufer, Equity and Social Justice Committee Chair.