The Ford government’s temporarily rescinding a policy that since 2012 has forced provincial school boards to hire only teachers with the most seniority.

In announcing the move to repeal the policy, known as Regulation 274, Education Minister Stephen Lecce says it ”rewards union seniority over one’s merit,” adding this will give principals more flexibility to hire the very best staff.

Effective October 29, Lecce adds teacher hiring will be ”dictated by merit, diversity, and the unique needs of schools and communities.”

”It is about ensuring that students can see themselves reflected in the educator at the front of the classroom.”

The move is triggered by hiring delays experienced by school boards as they responded to staffing changes brought about by COVID-19.