OCTE Response To Changes In Teacher Education

The recent notice issued by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities (MTCU) and the Ministry of Education (MOE) to stakeholders in education.

The notice states (in part) that the Ontario College of Teachers’ accreditation regulation will be amended to:

  • double the initial teacher education program to 4 semesters
  • double the minimum practicum to 80 days
  • introduce mandatory core element

In response to many enquiries recently received, the executive would like to assure its membership and tech teachers across the province that we have been and will continue to work for the best interests of technology education teachers in Ontario. With respect to teacher training, OCTE has been very vocal in expressing serious concerns about the proposed amendments and the impact it will have on attracting exceptional, tech experienced candidates to the teaching profession. OCTE executives have met with College of Teachers representatives on several occasions over the last two and a half years to discuss concerns. We are optimistic that the MTCU and the College will consider a course for technology teachers starting in June and running full time for a year including the two summers. We value the skills and the experience that technology teachers in Ontario bring into the secondary school system.

We welcome your input and look forward to working on your behalf.

Regards
Rod Parcher – Chair OCTE
On behalf of the Executive

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