Statement by the Prime Minister on World Teachers' Day

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau today issued the following statement on World Teachers' Day:

“Teaching duties are only a tiny part of the job description for teachers. Every day, they take on many other roles, such as coach, mentor and advocate. They encourage their students to be creative, to dream big and to persevere. Their wisdom and guidance help students find and develop their strengths and choose a career path that is unique to them. Teaching staff, which includes staff from post-secondary institutions such as adult educators, teaching assistants and professors, go a long way in bringing out the best in everyone and in strengthening our communities and society as a whole. Today, in this World Teachers' Day, we celebrate the teachers and thank them for giving of their time and energy so that our students have the best possible experience and thus can learn and thrive.

“Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the workload on teachers and the pressure on them has increased exponentially. Over the past year and a half, teachers around the world have had to adapt their teaching styles, reconcile virtual and classroom lessons, and speak louder due to the wearing of masks. We congratulate them for going above and beyond to foster learning for every child. This year's theme, “Teachers at the Heart of Education Revival,” focuses on the support teachers need to help revive in the aftermath of the COVID-19 crisis.

“The Government of Canada has taken concrete steps to help teachers during this difficult time. Last year, we announced an investment of almost $ 2 billion for provinces and territories through the Safe Back to School Fund. These funds have helped schools adapt their learning spaces, improve ventilation, increase hand sanitization, purchase personal protective equipment and cleaning products, and provide training in health and safety to personnel. We also announced the allocation of an additional $ 224 million over two years to support First Nations, for the implementation of community measures for a safe return to school on reserves. As part of our continued commitment to educators, we will work to increase the Qualifying Educator School Supply Tax Credit from 15 to 25 % and expand the eligibility criteria to include technological devices and devices. supplies purchased when teaching is virtual or at home.

We know the world is a better and stronger place when teachers around the world have the resources to deliver quality education to every child.

“We know the world is a better and stronger place when teachers around the world have the resources to provide a quality education for every child. That is why, at the Generation Equality Forum which took place in June, we allocated $ 50 million from the sum pledged by Canada for the Global Partnership for Education to Eliminate Social and Institutional Barriers to Education. education of girls in our partner countries.  

“From personal experience, I know the sacrifices teachers have to make and their dedication to their students. Across the country, we have exceptional teachers who are preparing our young people for a successful future. The Prime Minister's Award for Excellence in Teaching, excellence in STEM education and excellence in early childhood education pay tribute to just a few of the many teachers and educators who show leadership and make a real difference in the lives of their students.   

“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I thank teachers and educators in Canada and around the world for the essential work they do every day. You play an essential role in the emergence of the leaders of today and tomorrow. I encourage all Canadians to take the time to thank a teacher who has changed their lives for the better. "

This document can also be found at: http://pm.gc.ca