Last week marked the completion of an annual tradition across Trillium Lakelands District School Board (TLDSB). The Board hosted professional development alongside the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario Trillium Lakelands Elementary Teacher Local (ETFO-TLETL) and Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ FederationDistrict 15 (OSSTF-D15). The collaborative sessions brought together school administrators, union stewards, and branch presidents to foster positive workplace relationships.
The training took place in two locations—the first being at the Days Inn & Suites Lindsay on September 18, and the second taking place at the Muskoka Education Centre on September 28.
During the sessions, participants heard from author of BrainFishing: A Practice Guide to Questioning Skills, Gary Furlong, who provided information and led attendees through practical activities regarding engagement and resolution.
“The leadership of our union stewards, branch presidents, and administrators is crucial in ensuring effective employee relations in our schools,” said TLDSB superintendent of Human Resources Services, Jennifer Johnston. “We appreciate the opportunity to engage in joint training sessions, such as this session with Gary Furlong, to further develop our ability to collaborate and achieve our common goals.”
“Strong working relationships don’t mean that we will always agree—they mean that we have the trust and communication necessary to work through difficult issues together,” said ETFO-TLETL president, Mike De Rose. “Bringing union stewards and school administrators together for joint learning helps build that foundation. Ultimately, better relationships at the school level allow us to address concerns earlier, support our members more effectively, and keep the focus on creating healthy, respectful workplaces for everyone.”
“The relationship we strive for between our branch presidents and administrators is built when we commit to interest-based collaboration; listening, asking questions, and taking constructive risks in how we communicate and problem-solve together,” said OSSTF-D15 president, Iggi van Kooten. “That kind of work takes trust, and trust takes practice. Through this collaborative approach, we are creating the space to learn from one another, challenge ourselves, and empower each worksite to confidently and autonomously address local issues.”
