education

Wednesday August 30, 2023

August 30, 2023

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday August 30, 2023

Neglecting International Students: A Tale of High Tuition, Apartment Woes, and Job Struggles

June 7, 2023

In the increasingly globalized world of higher education, international students are often seen as a boon to both the economy and cultural diversity of host countries. However, the reality for many of these students can be a far cry from the idealized image. In Canada, a country that has seen a significant rise in international student enrollment in recent years, the failure of both the government and higher learning institutions to adequately accommodate these students is a glaring example of systemic negligence. The ongoing housing affordability crisis, coupled with the frustrating job search for international students, highlights the disheartening lack of support they receive despite paying exorbitant tuition fees.

Canada’s housing affordability crisis is no secret. Skyrocketing property prices and rents in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver have made finding suitable accommodation a nightmare for locals, let alone international students. The government’s suggestion to cap the number of international students as a solution to the housing crunch demonstrates a baffling disconnect from the root causes of the problem. Blaming international students for a crisis largely fueled by inadequate housing supply and speculative practices only serves to deflect attention from the government’s failure to address these issues effectively.

 September 30, 2017

Adding insult to injury, the struggles of international students extend beyond housing. Many of these students come to Canada with dreams of not only gaining a world-class education but also contributing to the local economy through part-time jobs. However, the reality is often a disheartening tale of job search frustration. Limited job opportunities, coupled with the need to navigate a complex web of work permits and regulations, make the process overwhelming. International students find themselves in a Catch-22 situation: they need work experience to build a future but are denied the chance to gain it due to systemic barriers.

It’s worth highlighting that international students are not just temporary residents; they are crucial contributors to Canada’s economy and culture. They pay significantly higher tuition fees than domestic students, essentially subsidizing the education system. Yet, this investment is met with insufficient support when it comes to essential needs like housing and job opportunities. Universities, which benefit financially from international students, must take a more proactive role in advocating for their well-being rather than merely opposing efforts to address the housing crisis.

November 20, 2019

While international students might be seen as an easy scapegoat for the housing crisis, the real culprits are the failure of the government and higher learning institutions to prioritize the well-being of these individuals who are contributing so much to the nation’s prosperity. The solution to this issue requires a multi-faceted approach that encompasses increasing housing supply, addressing affordability, and providing better job opportunities for all residents, regardless of their origin.

Canada’s aspiration to welcome immigrants and international students is commendable, but it must be accompanied by genuine efforts to ensure their successful integration. The proposal to cap international student enrollment is a shortsighted and misguided response to a multifaceted problem. Instead, the government and universities must work collaboratively to develop comprehensive policies that prioritize accessible housing and equitable job opportunities. Only then can Canada truly stand as a model of inclusive education and a welcoming environment for all, regardless of their background. (AI) | Editorial cartoon published in the Hamilton Spectator.

From sketch to finish, see the current way Graeme completes an editorial cartoon using an iPencil, the Procreate app, and a couple of cheats on an iPad Pro. If you’re creative, give illustration a try:

 

Thursday May 4, 2023

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday May 4, 2023

Why Flying the Pride Flag Matters

January 17, 2012

Recently, a disturbing incident occurred outside a meeting of the York Catholic District School Board. Adults who claimed to be protecting Ontario’s children were actually endangering their well-being. Many of these adults, likely parents of school-aged children, showed up to the meeting to vehemently oppose the possibility of the board flying the rainbow flag in support of LGBTQ students in June. They even hurled insults at those who were in favour of flying the flag. 

News: Advocates, protestors clash at York Catholic school board meeting over flying Pride flag  

Although some of these adults claim that their objection was not specifically to the Pride flag but to what they believe it represents – the alleged corruption of children who are supposedly too young to learn about gender and sexuality – this notion is misguided. Everyone is capable of learning about gay, transgender, and non-binary people, just as they can learn about cisgender and heterosexual people. Queer people are not sexually explicit by their mere existence.

The belief that exposing children to queer people is harmful is nonsensical and is based on hateful, age-old myths about queer people as a corrupting influence on children. This belief is also derived from a particular brand of anti-LGBTQ politics typically associated with the United States. However, the events at the Catholic school board in York Region demonstrate that Canada is not immune to public displays of hateful rhetoric.

Pride celebrations are essential in schools to support marginalized kids who need it. Flying the Pride flag is not merely an act of virtue signalling; it is an official declaration of support for these kids. According to a recent survey conducted by the LGBTQ advocacy group EGALE, anti-queer discrimination is still prevalent in Canadian schools. For instance, 64% of all participants reported hearing homophobic comments daily or weekly at school. Moreover, 79% of transgender students who experienced physical harassment reported that teachers and staff were ineffective in addressing transphobic harassment. Lastly, over 30% of respondents who attend Catholic schools reported experiencing harassment based on their perceived sexual orientation.

October 30, 2018

We have made significant progress as a society regarding inclusion, but there is still much work to be done. It is critical that schools fly the Pride flag to signal to kids that even if their peers or parents reject them because of their identity, the school itself – and those at its helm – do not. Education Minister Stephen Lecce made it clear that he supports LGBTQ students, and we hope that York Region’s Catholic school board will follow suit. (AI)

 

Wednesday April 19, 2023

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday April 19, 2023

Stephen Lecce’s Education Agenda Fails Ontario’s Students

November 2, 2022

As Ontario’s education minister, Stephen Lecce has been pushing for a “back to basics” approach in the province’s schools, emphasizing reading, writing, and math. However, his recent introduction of legislation that gives him greater control over school boards and sets student achievement priorities has been met with criticism and skepticism from educators, parents, and unions alike.

One of the main concerns is that Lecce’s approach fails to address the real issues plaguing Ontario’s schools. The overcrowded classrooms, understaffed schools, and crumbling infrastructure are serious problems that require immediate attention. Instead of addressing these pressing concerns, Lecce seems more focused on standardized test scores as a measure of success, which critics argue is narrow and limited in its scope.

News: Doug Ford government sets sights on Ontario’s school system  

July 29, 2022

Lecce’s emphasis on standardized test scores as the sole measure of student achievement is shortsighted and fails to recognize the holistic nature of education. Education is not just about reading, writing, and math; it’s about fostering critical thinking skills, creativity, problem-solving, and social-emotional development. By narrowing the focus solely on test scores, Lecce is neglecting the broader needs of students and ignoring the importance of a well-rounded education.

Moreover, Lecce’s approach of “government overreach” and greater control over school boards is worrisome. Critics argue that local school boards and educators are better positioned to understand the unique needs of their students and communities, and imposing top-down mandates from the government may not be the most effective solution. The move to standardize training for trustees and board officials, as well as performance appraisals for directors of education, may not necessarily lead to improved outcomes for students, and it may further erode local autonomy in education decision-making.

August 6, 2020

Furthermore, the funding increase of 2.7 per cent announced by Lecce for the next academic year falls short of meeting the needs of Ontario’s schools. With overcrowded classrooms and understaffed schools, students are not receiving the attention and support they need to succeed. The recent hiring of 1,000 teachers for specialized math and literacy programs is a positive step, but it may not be enough to address the larger systemic issues facing Ontario’s education system.

Another concern is the proposed use of surplus school board properties for housing. While affordable housing is an important issue, repurposing school properties may not be the most effective solution. Schools are essential community spaces that provide a safe and inclusive environment for learning, and repurposing them for other purposes may have long-term consequences for students and communities.

March 19, 2019

It’s also worth noting that Lecce’s approach fails to acknowledge the existing efforts and achievements of Ontario’s schools. The province’s education system has been recognized as one of the top-performing systems nationally and internationally, as stated by the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario. While there is always room for improvement, Lecce’s overhaul of the education system seems unnecessary and lacking in a clear vision for the future.

In conclusion, Stephen Lecce’s approach to education in Ontario falls short of addressing the real issues facing schools. The emphasis on standardized test scores, government overreach, and lack of adequate funding and support for schools and students are significant concerns. Instead of focusing on narrow measures of success, Lecce should prioritize addressing the overcrowded classrooms, understaffed schools, and crumbling infrastructure that hinder student learning. Ontario’s education system needs a comprehensive and holistic approach that takes into account the diverse needs of students and communities, and empowers local educators and school boards to make informed decisions. It’s time for Lecce to listen to the concerns of educators, parents, and students, and work towards meaningful solutions that truly benefit Ontario’s schools. (AI)

 

Wednesday November 2, 2022

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday November 2, 2022

Ontario government’s wrecking ball negotiating tactic not an answer

Prior to the last province-wide crisis in education, Mike Harris government education minister John Snobelen promised to make changes in Ontario’s education policy by “creating a crisis.”

July 29, 2022

Sadly, it looks like Doug Ford and his education minister, Stephen Lecce, are planning to do the same thing. This week, rather than continuing bargaining with Canadian Union of Public Employees education workers, the province passed a back-to-work law before a job action could begin, imposed an non-negotiated contract arbitrarily, and promised to use the notwithstanding clause of Canada’s constitution to fend off any legal challenges.

Why? Lecce says it is in response to CUPE’s having given strike notice that job action could — not would — start as early as this Friday. The sledgehammer approach is needed to guarantee “stability” in education, says Lecce.

That’s a red herring. In the event of job action, Hamilton public schools will remain open. In Halton, schools will move to alternative scheduling to allow for adequate cleaning. And the Hamilton Catholic board has said it would close schools.

October 20, 2021

Clearly, denying collective bargaining to education assistants, custodians, early childhood educators and office staff wasn’t destined to close all schools as Lecce claims. So just what is the government’s agenda? Will it do the same when crunch-time comes while bargaining with teachers? Does the government intend to take away bargaining rights from all education workers?

CUPE education workers, 70 per cent of whom are women, are the lowest paid in the school system. On average, they earn $39,000 a year. With inflation, they have seen real wage reduction of more than 10 per cent. CUPE is seeking 11.7 per cent increases.

We’re not judging whether that increase is justified or not, or whether the province’s offer, closer to 1 per cent, is remotely fair. That’s what negotiations are for, including mediation and ultimately arbitration.

But prematurely neutering the bargaining process by declaring any job action illegal is not fair, ethical or wise.

August 20, 2012

The last government that tried imposing a contract on education workers was the McGuinty Liberal government. In 2016, Justice Thomas Lederer of the Ontario Superior Court said of that imposition: “When reviewed in the context of the Charter and the rights it provides, it becomes apparent that the process engaged in was fundamentally flawed. It could not, by its design, provide meaningful collective bargaining.”

The Ford government clearly anticipated a similar finding, and is already prepared to use the notwithstanding clause — the constitution’s nuclear option — to ignore any legal ruling. That is an abuse of the intention of the clause.

Consider the words of federal Justice Minister David Lametti, who is looking at how Ottawa could challenge the province’s use of the notwithstanding clause.

June 11, 2021

“It de facto means that people’s rights are being infringed and it’s being justified using the notwithstanding clause,” he said. “Using it pre-emptively is exceedingly problematic. It cuts off both political debate and judicial scrutiny.”

The fact that the province has already decided to use the nuclear option also suggests it knows full well it is violating the constitutional rights of education workers. Otherwise it wouldn’t need to rely on the notwithstanding clause prior to any adjudication. We should be concerned that our government is knowingly violating the rights of 55,000 Ontarians, including thousands in Hamilton and Halton.

No one wants schools closed. No one wants an education strike. But are we willing to accept accomplishing those objectives by force, taking a wrecking ball to the collective bargaining process?

If we are, we would be wise to ask ourselves: Who, and what, is next? (Hamilton Spectator Editorial) 

 

Friday July 29, 2022

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday July 29, 2022

Education minister says Ontario students will stay in class for in-person learning this school year

January 31, 2020

Education Minister Stephen Lecce on Monday committed to keeping Ontario’s two million students in class for in-person learning this school year, as the province continues to face uncertainty from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It is so consequential to children’s mental and physical health,” Lecce said at a news conference in Ajax, where he announced his ministry’s “plan to catch up” for students who fell behind during pandemic-related school closures.

Ontario students were, cumulatively, out of in-person classes longer than children and youth in any other jurisdiction in North America after the pandemic began in March 2020.

Lecce’s commitment comes amid a backdrop of ongoing negotiations with the province’s education unions whose contracts are set to expire at the end of August.