Shows
Public #onted with Greg CawseyDestreaming Is Failing StudentsIn today's episode Greg returns to sound off on how destreamed mandatory classes are failing students. Students who had their lessons modified with an IEP (individual education plan) in our all kids pass elementary school system model, are now being set up for failure in having to take mandatory destreamed Grade 9 classes. Greg does rant, but he will offer solutions.
Visit the public #onted newsletter https://gregcawsey.substack.com/s/public-onted-with-greg-cawsey
2024-11-2221 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyPolitical Protest Field Trips? It Was Only a Matter of TimeRecent news of school children being taken to a Pro-Palestinian protest has rightfully caused quite a stir from parents and has led the Ontario Minister of Education to investigate further.
You may ask why schools would allow field trips to participate in political protests altogether - most don’t, but the line between what is deemed “political” is quite blurry.
Read more at Public #onted https://gregcawsey.substack.com/s/public-onted-with-greg-cawsey
2024-09-2721 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyWhat Skills Should We Teach in an AI WorldBeen some discussion lately about what real life skills should be taught in Ontario High Schools. The bigger question we must all decide in the AI world, what are we going to leave for us humans to do?
https://gregcawsey.substack.com/s/public-onted-with-greg-cawsey
2024-09-1315 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyCell Phone Ban Will Be Up to ParentsResponse by parents to the new province wide school cell phone ban will determine if it has any teeth.
https://gregcawsey.substack.com/s/public-onted-with-greg-cawsey
2024-09-0415 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseySchool Boards in Glass Houses Shouldn’t Throw StonesThis episode Greg applauds the decision for school boards to sue social media companies, but cautions that schools need to do more to get cell phones out of the classroom.
Ted also asks Greg about Parent Teacher interviews and the Tech teacher shortage.
Follow past episodes and articles at the Public # onted Newsletter at https://gregcawsey.substack.com/s/public-onted-with-greg-cawsey
2024-04-0528 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyRacist School System? Not Buying It.The need to shock people to gain attention is nothing new. Advertisers have been doing it for years. Remember those cheesy ad headlines - SEX - now that I have your attention. Well now the protest movements have taken a page from Madison Avenue to do their own version. They describe anything they believe needs changing and describe it in alarmist terms.
Canada is a racist country that commits genocide. Excuse me, what was that?
Now that social justice warriors have your attention a stunned public can continue to be enlightened on how everything they...
2024-03-1115 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyClassroom Management TipsToday Greg offers classroom management tips to foster a positive learning environment for students. Check out essays and comentary at: https://gregcawsey.substack.com/s/public-onted-with-greg-cawsey
2024-02-1728 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyTips For Overcoming Test AnxietyStudents face a number of stressors in their lives from many things out of their control. Today, Greg gives advice on how teachers and students can alleviate test anxiety by taking ownership of what they can control - preparation and letting go of what they can’t - the mark.
Greg also answers Ted questions on Alberta’s Parental Rights legislation and updates on teacher contracts.
Check out the past posts at Public #onted Newsletter:
2024-02-0322 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyKindergarten Coding? Ministry Needs More Input From Classroom TeachersDiscuss the recent kindergarten curriculum revision announcement from the Ministry. While the update is welcome, it does continue a pattern of top down changes. While some call for more teacher union input in the curriculum process, Greg calls for more input from teachers that are actually still in the classroom.
Check out the Public #onted Newsletter at https://gregcawsey.substack.com/s/public-onted-with-greg-cawsey
2024-01-2520 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyIf Schools Are About Community Then Police Need To Be In ThemI do appreciate the importance of always looking at something with a fresh set of eyes. We should always be looking at how we can do things better. The desire to improve should also come with some reverence for how we got here. Without that understanding we tend to tear down rather than build upon.
Take for example the decision from some Ontario school boards to remove uniformed officers from visiting or working within schools. The rationale is that the police uniform is a negative emotional trigger for people and communities who have faced police brutality and mistreatment. I do n...
2024-01-1319 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyDeja De-streamingToday’s episode discusses Ontario’s move to de-streaming. Explain the rationale and implications as we navigate through this transitionary period in Ontario secondary education. Greg also offers why parents need to stay involved throughout the entire K-12 school years.
Follow the Public #onted Newsletter on Substack and @publiconted
https://gregcawsey.substack.com/s/public-onted-with-greg-cawsey
2024-01-0424 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyLet's Talk About MathJust like the province tries to play catch up on falling math scores, we will catch up on the two math related stories from the last two weeks. Today, discuss the reinstatement of a mandatory math qualification test for new teachers and the recent PISA Math results from the OECD. Ended with a teaser to the next Public #onted episode on de streaming.
2023-12-0829 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyWhere Are The Curriculum Cops?Plenty of discussion on mandating or beefing up Holocaust education, which I fully support. But where is the oversight to make sure this actually followed? Will outline the issue and the solutions to make sure what is supposed to be taught - is taught.
Will also discuss the recent deal between the Elementary Teachers’ Union and the Province. Listen to all episodes at justcaws.ca, apple, or wherever you get your podcasts. Follow @publiconted on X or facebook as well.
2023-11-2423 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyAre District School Boards Still Needed?Today discuss Bill 98 and the recent historical role of provincial school boards. Greg will explain why he believes that they are still needed even if under greater provincial control.
Greg will also answer Ted’s questions asking for updates on this show and contracts. Finally, an update on how implemented changes in the class this year are going thus far to manage cell phones and AI.
2023-11-2323 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyTeacher Discipline Triage NeededIn today’s hyper sensitive climate, school boards’ disciplinary process is under increased pressure. The process itself is not the issue, but the time taken to adjudicate a complaint is hurting the system.
Today examine the issue and explain why more resources are needed to be employed by school boards to ensure the quality of everyone’s education is not compromised.
2023-11-2321 min
Public #onted with Greg CawseySchool OvercrowdingToday Greg warns of the coming crisis in many parts of the province as more homes will soon mean we need more schools. In fact, the crisis is already here but attention has been on other things. Speaking of which Greg addresses Ted’s question on the protests and whether Greg will be wearing an Orange shirt tomorrow - he will - along with a Canadian Flag pin. Listen to let him explain why.
2023-09-2932 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyThe Diagnostic - EQAOIn a system that is an accountability wasteland, the EQAO is the report card for the publc system. Today discuss why despite its expense and challenges the EQAO not only should remain, but should expand to a graduation assessment tool.
2023-09-2221 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyTalking Contract TalksToday examine the merits of the binding arbitration process being endorsed by the secondary union provincial leadership. See where this all goes, but no news is usually good news.
2023-09-1529 min
Public #onted with Greg CawseyI Want My ACToday Greg asks, how much would you give up in the next contract if all public schools in the province had air conditioning installed?
Also, get into how the first week back has gone. For full episode summary subscribe to the Public #onted newsletter at https://gregcawsey.substack.com
2023-09-0825 min
Public #onted with Greg CawseyOntario Public Education Needs a Hero - Right NowFormer teacher union District VP and nomination candidate for the Progressive Conservatives, Greg shares his unique perspective on the current #onted dispute.
Dark clouds are hovering over Ontario public education, right now. Whether you blame the government or the unions it doesn’t matter, schools are closed – again, and parents are fed up. This will be a pivotal week in determining if the Ford government cares about public education or is purposely creating havoc in the system to undermine it in the eyes of Ontarians.
As for the education unions, from my experience at the nego...
2023-08-3113 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyWelcome Back Trifecta!Today we will hit upon three topics for our back to school episode. First, discuss the latest contract talks and the arbitration proposal by the government. Next, a reminder for teacher’s to check their privilege when back in class this fall. . Finally, will weigh in on the parents consent issue and discuss my post “Love and Respect - https://gregcawsey.substack.com/p/love-and-respect-we-can-do-both on the Public #onted newsletter last week.
2023-08-3129 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyAttendance Part 2So switch things up this week and discuss the issue of attendance with respect to teachers. The number of teacher sick days gets the attention of many, but Greg explains why he doesn’t believe that should be the main concern.
2023-08-2221 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyAttendance Is ___?This week examines attendance and engagement issues for today’s students. Educators already know the challenges students face. Mental and physical health, not to mention the rise of incredible stay at home entertainment options available for many. So what to do?
Also, discuss what the current strike vote means and why Greg is not overly concerned over a September work stoppage.
2023-08-1730 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyPriceless - The Value of Extracurriculars
This week examine the important role extracurriculars play in the public education system. For many students their continuing engagement in their education is dependent upon them. That importance sadly makes them a repeated target, used as a bargaining chip by teacher unions when contract talks stall.
Also discuss from the perspective of a twenty plus year vet of coaching or running something in the school some advice on how to avoid the bitter trap and make your experience a lifelong joy.
2023-08-1039 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyPlaying With Fire - School Choice Within Public EducationWhen school boards allow parents to choose a school to isolate them from the mainstream they diminish the unifying power of our public school system. Discuss how we can allow for choice within a public system, but still educate all in unity, not separation.
2023-08-0229 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyProfessional Activity Days Gone ____?Discuss what takes place during the professional development days teachers take part. They are beneficial, but their ill timing during the school year serves more as a mental health break for reflection, rather than an opportunity for implementing real change. Will also comment on the very unfortunate suicide of a TDSB Principal, who was accused of racism during a professional training session.
2023-07-2931 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyParent Blowback?Today, discuss whether hot button topics like Drag Queen story time are just media fuelled smoke. Or do they have the potential to be a fire of genuine controversy beyond the political extremes?
2023-07-2031 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyTeacher Performance and PayToday we continue the discussion on rating teachers, perforamce and pay. End episode with a pessimistic assessment of where I believe things are headed this fall.
2023-07-1925 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyRating TeachersThis episode discusses the teacher evaluation process. We do a good job of understanding that teaching is a craft that requires continuous development and reflection. The issue is judging performance. Teacher unions have taken any recognition out of the evaluation process. That may work at the bargaining table, but it hinders public education. It’s hard to follow the path of a great teacher if the criteria that determines their success is allowed to be unclear.
2023-07-1222 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyPrivate vs Public SchoolsIt is vital that we maintain the confidence in our Public education system. Yes, it’s far from perfect, but it’s still churning out a record number of top notch grads each year who appreciate the importance of education in shaping their future. Today I will discuss its inherent advantages and shortcomings. It may not be what the far right wants or runs the way the far left likes, but our public education system still works very well for most of the middle. For the sake of our society, we must keep it that way.
Read transc...
2023-07-1036 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyTeaching In An AI WorldThe impact of AI on education will be profound. Unlike the internet which is used primarily as a research and reference tool,, AI is about creation. This does create challenges, but it will force reforms that I believe can improve outcomes and equity. So let’s unpack AI, and today discuss its impact and strategies to adapt to this new reality. And yes, this was created with 100% human content.
2023-07-0624 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyMark Inflation - You Don't SayGrocery prices are not the only thing going up. Today we will explore mark inflation and some of its underlying causes. Also discuss how post secondary admissions are coping and how this may become a bigger issue in the future.
2023-07-0421 min
Public #onted with Greg CawseyLobby For Public Ed By Dressing Like A ProfessionalUpdate on contract talks - there is none. Unions have begun their public whine campaign for more funding. How about doing something you can control and show public education the respect it deserves by dressing up to work.
2023-06-2117 min
Public #onted with Greg CawseyCellphones In The ClassroomNext week we will talk about politics and education funding, but for today the topic is cellphones. Examine the role parents and teacher's play with cell phone use in the classroom and where this issue may be heading. Follow and give your comments @publiconted on twitter, facebook and substack at gregcawsey.com
2023-06-1621 min
Public #onted with Greg CawseyFinding Balance in Social ActivismPublic #onted is a current affairs newsletter for people interested in what’s going on inside Ontario Public Schools today. Award winning, veteran teacher Greg Cawsey breaks a hole in the red brick wall so you can get an inside perspective of the issues, challenges, and progress going on in your schools.
Today's topic is social activism in schools.
2023-06-1214 min
Public #onted with Greg CawseyHere We Go Again - So Tired Of The Neverending Contract BattlesUnions don't support pushing for essential service status because it cuts the size and influence of their organizations.I f you agree that teachers would get a better deal if deemed essential - then members will ask why are we paying so much in dues. An association can do contract maintenance for much less. rather than spending millions on ad buys during contract talks.
The government may not want this, but the public does . They are tired of the current adversarial system of endless contract disputes and so am I.
2022-08-2314 min
Public #onted with Greg CawseyWe Need School TrusteesIf public education is in fact in trouble, the one terrible sign would be public apathy. Sadly, in some municipalities the indifference is on full display with some school trustee positions being unfilled or uncontested individuals being acclaimed. The system needs input from the public to be at its best.
Secondary issue is that teachers have flexed their political muscles in endorsing candidates who see public education through their lens. With limited numbers running for the position, teacher influence has skewed the political balance needed on school boards.
Solutions… just listen.
2022-08-1213 min
Public #onted with Greg CawseyNo More StrikesToday's idea is to take away teacher's unions' right to strike by making teaching an essential service.
2022-07-2715 min
Public #onted with Greg CawseyPublic #Onted - Is a JUSTCAWS PodcastWelcome to Advancing Public Education, hosted by Gregory Cawsey. Here to give voice to ideas on advancing public education.
2022-07-2702 min
Public #onted with Greg CawseyWhy Do You Believe In Public Education?A strong Public Education system is vital for a functional democracy. So many important parts of our society are supported by an educated electorate that learns perspective in an environment that reflects the society they want to change.
Equity within public education is vital, but it must be done right.
An uncompromising push for equity is going to push out families that have time, money and influence. Their absence will disrupt the diversity needed for the magic of public education to work. Read column at https://www.justcaws.ca/2022/07/drive-for-equity-cannot-drive-families.html
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2022-07-1630 min
Public #onted with Greg CawseyDid You Agree With The SCOTUS Decision?Discussed why I am Pro Choice in a previous episode, but this one will look at the politics of the decision to overturn Roe vs. Wade in the United States. I am hopeful that this can be an opportunity for the U.S. to get to a better place surrounding this difficult issue. Unfortunately, I believe this will be a painful process in finding the right balance. We are fortunate here in Canada, that once again, we can learn from the American struggle.
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2022-06-2911 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyStop What Steal?Previously written about the cult of personality of our time. Before the election and after. I have found it fascinating that people still don’t grasp the appeal and how to combat him. I do fear for American democracy if he was to ever win again.
It is why I hope the left has a better strategy going forward than what I have seen thus far. The January 6 committee is going to try and get as much out of that disgrace as it can. But without criminal consequence - it does seem partisan and out of touch with day to day issu...
2022-06-2213 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseySo Why Do High Gas Prices Concern You?It is deliberate and people know it. Populist anger is simmerring and about to boil over. Conservative oppportunist politicians are circling the discontent and herding this mob down their own idealogical path. I don’t believe in a winner take all attitude in politics. The pendulum always swings back. When it does, I don't want to lose ground on social progressive issues, but when people struggle to afford the basics - nothing else matters.
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2022-06-1411 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyWhy Are Gas Prices So High?Please don't listen to environmental apologists try and shift blame to Putin, price gouging or supply chain issues - this is not circumstantial. This pump pain is done with intent. At least with Covid restrictions, governments that imposed them - owned them. It was to fight a deadly virus. Progressives govermentents should have the courage of their convictions to do the same with the climate change fight. Willl discuss the consequences of this strategy next episode.
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2022-06-0707 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyWhy Don't You Like Teacher Unions?Commented plenty on teacher unions over the years and their counterproductive moves that are damaging to public education. Their increased politicization of the profession and encouraging member to air grievances in social media are not helping. Also comment on the following article from Kathryn Marshall - https://nationalpost.com/opinion/kathryn-marshall-power-to-the-people-not-always-when-unions-are-involvedand how they are failing to help members in their time of need. Say all this to support and protect a very justcaws - public education.
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2022-05-3121 min
Public #onted with Greg CawseyDo You Support Gun Control?Another tragic mass shooting in the United States has Greg address the divisive issue of gun control in this week's episode. The proliferation of guns in the States is both a cause of the violence, but also stone walls any moves at disarming citizens. Hopeful action will take place, but excuse my pessimism.
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2022-05-2520 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyWho Won The #Onpoli Debate?Critique of last night's Ontario Election debate and a summary of each party's current status heading into election day June 2nd.
Always believed that as long as you don't have to wear mask to vote, Ford will be able to get all the undivided support on the right of the political spectrum. Leaving the other 3 to fight over the votes on the left. While Ontario is left leaning, one party on the left has to dominate for a clear path to victory. Nothing thus far has changed that thinking.
I don't believe with the pandemic mo...
2022-05-1718 min
Public #onted with Greg CawseyWhat Do The #leafsforever Do Now?Fire the coach, the GM, blow it up? None of the above, but running it back is not an option either. That is by definition insanity - which is happening to me by watching this team lose in the playoffs year after year. Willie and or the Captain must go. Add a proven winner and some needed salary cap flexibility is the JUSTCAWS off season plan.
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2022-05-1517 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyWhich Party Do You Support?Political engagement is high - so that should be a good thing for our democracy. Unfortunately, the United States influence of tribal political identity is creeping into Canada. It seems now everyone has a political opinion and wear it on their sleeve.
It reminds me of the change in our attire to go and cheer on our favourite sport team. Look at the footage of old games - not a logo in sight. Not that many years ago I remember going to sporting events and only a few wore team gear to the game. Now that American...
2022-05-1022 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyAre You Pro Choice?With today's leak about an upcoming U. S. supreme court decision on the status of abortion rights in the States, I wanted to share my thoughts on the inconsistent position many Conservatives take on the issue and how I believe these social conservative issues are hobbling efforts to elect good governments that demonstrate the fiscal conservative values we need.
I will draw a comparison with vaccine mandates. If there are to be any restrictions it should be left for women in society to decide - again it's their choice.
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2022-05-0315 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyWhy All The Protests in Canada?Inflation, carbon taxes on already high gas prices and a general apathy toward these issues by the federal government. It's "not let them eat cake" but frustration is growing like food prices for the working class.
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2022-05-0214 min
Public #onted with Greg CawseyThoughts On Ukraine?Current war in Ukraine has sadly provided horrific images that has lead to the question of where do we go from here?
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2022-04-2712 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyDon't Say What?Legislation in many states south of the border looking to age limit discussion on LGBTQ issues has Greg talking.
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2022-04-2117 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyWhat Is JUSTCAWS?About giving perspective in the search for understanding and common ground. I believe that is a JUSTCAWS.
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2022-04-2002 min
Public #onted with Greg CawseyWhat Do Lockdowners and Antivaxers Have In Common?Antivaxxers and individuals who remain in a tight, personal lockdown, share one thing in common - fear. The cause of their fear may be different (vaccine vs. covid) but their irrational behaviour puts them on the fringes of society. The only way to bring them back to the fold is to ...
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2022-04-1708 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyAre You Still Wearing A Mask?Question about how are things in schools now and of course the topic du jour - masks.
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2022-04-1719 min
Public #onted with Greg CawseyHow Will The #Raptors / #Leafs Do In The Playoffs ?Thoughts on Raps chances and Leafs playoff hopes. Throw in a little Jays talk too.
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2022-04-1714 minPublic #onted with Greg CawseyWhy Are You Doing This?Taking your questions on today’s issues. Giving perspective to find common ground.
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2022-04-1607 min