Unifor ESL teachers ratify agreement

New deal comes after weeks-long strike

English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers represented by Unifor recently ratified a collective agreement with Kaplan International.

The agreement was reached after nearly four weeks on strike. According to the union, members voted for the new deal with an “overwhelming majority” on June 4.

The affected employees, represented by Unifor’s Local 40 in Toronto, will see annual wage increases as part of the new deal.

The collective agreement also includes enhancements to vacation benefits and key improvements to language on job security.

The issue of job security was of particular importance to members, according to the union.

“It takes time, effort and knowledge to be a great teacher,” said Unifor staff representative Josephine Petcher. “Our dedicated ESL teachers care about their students, and were unwavering in their commitment to stand up for a fair contract that protects job security.”

Latest stories