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The provincial government has announced that Lakehead University is receiving $5,300,000 to train more teachers.
“These new spots will focus on critical areas such as technological education, French and working in underserved regions, including northern, rural, indigenous and remote communities where teachers are needed the most,” explained Thunder Bay-Atikokan MPP, Kevin Holland. “Here in Thunder Bay, this means more teachers in our classrooms, better supports for students and stronger communities for years to come.”
The funding is expected to lead to 488 new teachers being trained.
“This is more than an investment in a university program,” explained Lakehead University President Gillian Siddall. “It is an investment in children, in families and in the future strength of Ontario.”
The funding is coming following a report from earlier this year by Ontario’s Education Directors, which highlighted that at least 1,500 new teachers are needed each year until 2030 to address the current staff shortage.
“Teachers are the backbone of our education system. They don’t just teach subjects, they spark imagination, open doors, and shape the leaders of tomorrow.”
“For Lakehead, this expansion strengthens our education program and creates new opportunities for students who feel called to the classroom. It allows us to answer urgent labour market needs by preparing teachers for the very regions that need them most.”
