Fifth council

College members choose fifth Council

Members of the College have chosen the fifth Council, which will govern the teaching profession in the public interest for the next three years.

The 37-member Council meets four times a year to develop policy direction and provide oversight in accordance with the objects set out in the Ontario College of Teachers Act. It establishes teacher qualifications in regulation and sets standards of practice and ethical standards, accredits teacher education programs and investigates and hears complaints about individual members.

The 23 elected members represent the English, French, Catholic, public, elementary and secondary school systems in all regions of the province, and four of the positions are designated for principals/vice-principals, supervisory officers, faculties of education and private schools. The other 14 members of Council are appointed by the provincial government for terms of up to three years.

A total of 34 candidates ran for 23 places on Council. At the close of nominations on January 12, 2009, 17 positions had received only one nomination and those candidates were acclaimed.

Of members of the College eligible to participate, 2.2 per cent voted online between March 9 and April 14 to choose who would fill the remaining six positions.

The fifth Council will hold its inaugural meeting on July 2, 2009.