Doug Ford to Require Teachers to Complete a Math Test

 

If you were given a math test today, would you pass it?

If you hope to become a teacher in Ontario, you might have to start brushing up on your math skills.

The Ontario government recently proposed legislative amendments that, if passed, would reportedly "keep children safe" and enhance their overall learning experience.

The amendments include:

• Mandate new teachers to successfully complete a math content knowledge test before seeking their teaching registration.  
• Require the Discipline Committees of the Ontario College of Teachers and College of Early Childhood Educators to revoke an educator’s certificate of registration for any act of sexual abuse of a student or child. 
• Provide regulation making authority for the Lieutenant Governor in Council to prescribe behaviours of a sexual nature that are prohibited under the Criminal Code (Canada) would result in the mandatory revocation of an educator’s certificate of registration.

Judging by the proposed amendments, the math test seems a little odd when grouped with proposals surrounding sexual misconduct.

“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 province says it also intends to proclaim existing provisions of legislation into effect that will ensure students and children who have been subjected to alleged sexual abuse by a member of the Ontario College of Teachers or College of Early Childhood Educators have access to funding for counselling and therapy supports.

“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."

The province is also consulting with parents on a number of issues.

More information on that initiative can be found here.