Videos are now available showing the introduction of our two new Honorary Life Members – Pat Balyk and Kathy Clarke – and the awarding of the President’s Award to First Vice-President Susan Swackammer: desktop/laptop videos | iPad/mobile videos.
In his closing remarks on Thursday, ETFO President Sam Hammond had this to say about debate on Annual Meeting motions:
We debated many resolutions this week. I am not sure that I have ever seen as many people participate in debate as have participated. And I must say I am always surprised by which resolutions provoke the most heated debate. I learn so much from listening to you talk about the things that really engage you.
You can find out what local representatives thought was worthy of debate by reading the 2012 Annual Meeting Resolutions in this booklet and this… Continue reading
View the President’s closing remarks: desktop/laptop | iPad/mobile. Video of keynote speaker Ian Troop (2015 Toronto Pan/Parapan American Games CEO) and of the special awards ceremony at Annual Dinner will be online later today.
This morning the following media releases were sent out to reporters across the province:
- ETFO First Vice-President Susan Swackhammer Receives Prestigious President’s Award
- Four members of Elementary Teachers’ Federation receive Diamond Jubilee Medal
- Pat Balyk Receives ETFO Honorary Life Membership
- Halton Educator Kathy Clarke Honoured By ETFO
View video of the President’s closing remarks: desktop/laptop | iPad/mobile
ETFO President Sam Hammond delivered a rousing closing address and received a standing ovation from the delegates. Here are some key excerpts from his speech:
This is the final session of our 2012 Annual Meeting. I want to thank you for your attendance and participation. It is what makes our federation strong.
No matter how strongly opinions were expressed, our debate has been, for the most part, thoughtful and respectful.
Referring to the speeches of keynote speakers Ian Troop, CEO of the 2015 Pan/Parapan American Games, and Stephan Bognar, CEO… Continue reading
Media coverage of ETFO Annual Meeting from Wednesday:
Pan Am games an inspiration – Ian Troop addressed hundreds of teachers attending an annual meeting of the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO) Wednesday at a downtown hotel. “Our goal of the games is not to build buildings, but to develop human potential,” said Troop. ETFO President Sam Hammond said “it’s absolutely important” Ontario teachers incorporate lessons of the Pan Am games into their classrooms.“We want to ignite the love of movement, sport and inclusiveness,” said Hammond, a former gym teacher of 20 years.
Read more in the Toronto Sun.
Delegates are back to work this morning following a wonderful Annual Dinner and dance last evening. Photos of the festivities will be posted on this site soon. On the agenda for today – the final session of Annual Meeting 2012:
- final review and approval of the 2012-13 budget
- the president’s closing remarks
- further work on Annual Meeting resolutions
- courtesy statements and motions
The Annual Meeting will adjourn at 2:00 p.m.
First VP Susan Swackhammer leads the final review of the budget
Delegates vote against a resolution.

















