As the COVID-19 situation evolves, the College remains steadfast to its commitment to protecting students and setting the standard for Ontario teachers.

We continue to guide teachers' professional practice as they navigate new ways to connect with learners, recognizing that this remains a challenging time for students, parents and educators.

The College is taking proactive measures to address anti-black racism concerns.

See our Council's open letter reflecting our commitment to equity and inclusion, in light of recent events in Ontario and around the globe.

The College has released video conferencing guidelines to its members. The advice helps educators in exercising professional judgment when teaching online.

The College provides advice to teachers in different formats, including our professional advisories. Advisories offer guidance to teachers on a particular topic, such as bullying, student mental health and the use of electronic communication and social media.

• The Learning Partnership has resources and activities to keep children engaged and learning at home.
• Calm, Headspace and 10 Per Cent Happier offer guided meditation for stress reduction and better health.
• The Psychology Foundation of Canada provides free online webinars for parents to support their children's mental health.
• Check out these fun and educational apps in Apps Analysis.

With isolation, social distancing and work upheaval caused by COVID-19, caring for our mental well-being has never been more important.

"Building Resilience," published in the June issue of Professionally Speaking, provides practical strategies for taking charge of your mental health during challenging times.

The federal and Ontario governments offer financial support for those who are eligible to receive it.

The Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) gives financial support to employed and self-employed Canadians who are directly affected by COVID-19.

The Ontario government offers support for families through a one-time payment for eligible children who are not in school or childcare because of COVID-19.

COVID-19-related school closures have resulted in changes to certification requirements for teacher candidates.

Under normal circumstances, candidates are required to successfully complete 80 hours of practicum teaching experience to qualify for certification. Those in their fourth semester of a four-semester teacher education program who are unable to complete the remaining practicum due to COVID, and meet all other certification requirements, will qualify for certification.

Stop by our booth at the Virtual Bump, Baby & Toddler Expo on July 4, 2020.