Wrong target

It is encouraging news that the Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation has agreed to “suspend political action” against the Liberal government of new premier Kathleen Wynne, with the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario possibly following suit by week’s end.
But let’s hold off on wild applause just yet. The OSSTF, for instance, has admitted the majority of its members may not resume extra-curricular activities—at least until they see “concrete action” from the government. And really, the damage already has been done to students for the bulk of the current school year.
Yes, it appears Fort High’s annual musical now will go ahead, and fortunately the senior band’s trip to Cuba over the March Break was not threatened by the teachers’ protest over Bill 115. But many high school athletes missed out on a chance to qualify for the all-Ontarios, which is especially unfair for those donning a Muskie uniform for the final time.
There’s also word the number of school entries in the annual Rainy River District Festival of the Performing Arts, running April 8-25, is down due to the teachers’ fight with the province—and that’s a real shame. All it’s done is deny youngsters the wonderful opportunity the festival offers to showcase their musical and drama talents, which, in turn, may fuel future endeavours in the field.
Teachers are understandably upset about having contracts imposed on them. It’s also important to realize—and appreciate—that teacher involvement in extra-curricular activities is voluntary.
Venting their displeasure with the government by choosing to withdraw from extra-curriculars, however, hit the wrong target.
Teachers have a legitimate gripe but leave students out of the fight.