Brampton teacher says school is unsafe, walks off the job

The union representing public high school teachers in Peel Region is supporting a colleage who has refused to work because of COVID-19.

The teacher is taking the action at Parkholme Secondary School on Chinguacousy Rd. The teacher believes the school presents unsafe working conditions because of the lack of protocols, including the non-wearing of masks.

While schools are largely closed across Ontario, teachers leading classes for students in special education are still required to conduct in-person learning at several locations.

The union, the Ontario Secondary School Teachers Federation District 19 (OSSTF), has been fighting against in-person learning for all students, but classrooms started up for special education lessons following the spring break.

A member of the OSSTF said labour laws allow people to refuse work if they believe the conditions are unsafe.

“What can be more unsafe than this?” said the teacher who asked not to be identified. “COVID is spreading in our community, yet the parking lot is full of cars. It is almost like it is business as usual.”