As 2025 comes to a close, we’re looking back on how much we’ve grown this year. We welcomed new teammates, tackled meaningful projects, and created memories along the way. Before we step into a fresh new year, here’s a warm look back at some of our favourite team moments.
Teachers Life Festive End-of-Year Lunch
We wrapped up the year with a delicious lunch at an amazing local restaurant. Good food, great company, and lots to celebrate. We handed out a peer-nominated achievement award and also enjoyed a fun holiday raffle. Congratulations to our winners!
Starry Night Paint n’ Sip
Back by popular demand! Our Paint n’ Sip sessions continue to be a Teachers Life favourite. Guided by an online instructor, we channelled our inner Van Gogh to recreate The Starry Night; all while enjoying a relaxed and social atmosphere. Many masterpieces are now proudly displayed at our desks.
Halloween Fun
Celebrating Halloween has always been a Teachers Life tradition. We get to dress up and be creative with our costumes. Our fearless leader even sported a red, Teletubby costume. Very demure. Very mindful. Very Teachers Life Halloween, 2025.
Teachers Life Pool Sharks
At one of our social outings, we traded keyboards for cue sticks at a local pool hall. Whether seasoned or brand-new to the game (yes, the granny stick saw plenty of action), everyone had a ball, whether they were beginners or experienced players.
Give Back Day: Supporting a Women’s Shelter
This year, we collected school supplies and essential household items for a GTA women’s shelter. We’re incredibly proud to support families in our community and help kids begin the school year with confidence. Thank you to everyone who contributed.
Learning to Make Gelato
Our Director of Compliance (and certified gelato expert), treated staff to a delightful Lunch and Learn. Drawing on her training from Carpigiani Gelato University in Italy, she shared her passion and expertise in the art of gelato making.
She guided us through the rich (and yummy) history of gelato, her inspiring journey to certification, and the science behind different base recipes. The session ended on a high note with a delicious tasting of the gelato flavours she demonstrated: chocolate, vanilla, hazelnut, blood orange, and mango. A truly educational and tasty experience.
Staff Retreat
We gathered at the historic Prince of Wales Hotel in beautiful Niagara-on-the-Lake for our annual retreat. It was a refreshing chance to learn, connect, laugh, and enjoy good meals together in a lovely setting.
Cinco De Mayo and Asian Heritage Celebrations
Food is one of the best ways to learn about one another. This year, we honoured these cultural moments with shared meals, treats, and opportunities to broaden our understanding, and our palates!
AMPA
OSSTF/FEESO convenes its Annual Meeting of the Provincial Assembly (AMPA) each March in Toronto, bringing together representatives from all Bargaining Units. As the Federation’s highest legislative authority, the Provincial Assembly oversees the creation and amendment of policies, procedures, bylaws, constitutions, budgets, and the Strategic Action Plan.
During AMPA, delegates debate and pass motions, approve the OSSTF/FEESO budget, and, during election years, elect the Provincial Executive and the OTF Board of Governors. We were excited to be there to mingle and give away some nice Teachers Life swag.
International Women’s Day
We recognized International Women’s Day (IWD) on March 8, aligning with the global theme, “Accelerate Action,” which calls for bold, immediate steps to advance gender equality, confront bias, and dismantle systemic barriers. This year also marked the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. IWD is a time to honor women’s achievements and advocate for their full participation and equal rights in every sector of society, with a strong focus on driving meaningful and measurable progress.
Employee Appreciation Day
Glow-in-the-dark mini putt? Absolutely. We had an unforgettable time mixing competition with laughter as we navigated neon courses and creative obstacles.
Valentines Day
We love Valentine’s Day. Yes, partly for the candy, but also for the chance to express gratitude and kindness to one another. A little appreciation goes a long way.
Pink Shirt Day
On the last Wednesday of February, we joined communities across Canada in recognizing Pink Shirt Day. This year’s theme, Let Kindness Grow, reminded us of the role we each play in fostering care, inclusion, and well-being in our daily interactions.
Black History Month Lunch
A heartfelt thank-you to our project manager for sharing a delicious meal with us. It was a wonderful way to celebrate culture, community, and connection.
Lunar New Year
Learning all about Lunar New Year celebrations and traditions while playing trivia with co-workers was an interesting (and entertaining) way to sweep away bad luck and welcome good fortune together.
As we look ahead to 2026, we’re grateful for the moments that shaped this year, from celebrations and learning experiences to community impact and simple fun. Here’s to more growth, connection, and joy in the year ahead!
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