Key Takeaways
- OCT: the Adjudicative Body of Chairs decides, on a risk of harm or injury to a student (OCT Act, s. 29.2(1)).
- ECE: the Council or Executive Committee decides, on a risk to a child (ECE Act, s. 32.2(1)).
- Both normally give at least 14 days for written submissions.
- The OCT investigation must then proceed expeditiously (s. 29.2(5)).
Teachers
The Adjudicative Body of Chairs may suspend or impose terms on a certificate if a complaint has been referred to it, or an investigator appointed, and it believes the member’s actions expose or are likely to expose a student to harm or injury (OCT Act, s. 29.2(1)). You must receive notice and at least 14 days for written submissions, unless delay would be inappropriate given the risk (s. 29.2(2)–(3)). No hearing is required beyond that (s. 29.2(4)).
Early Childhood Educators
The Council or Executive Committee may make an interim order where the conduct exposes or is likely to expose a child to harm or injury, after notice and at least 14 days for submissions (ECE Act, s. 32.2(1)–(2)).
Responding
- Address the specific risk to students or children.
- Explain any employer measures already in place, such as reassignment.
- Offer terms as an alternative to suspension.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my employer know?
The ECE Act requires the College to share certain decisions and orders with employers (s. 49.3). Expect employers to learn of significant orders.
Is there an appeal from the interim order?
Neither Act creates a specific appeal from an interim order. Judicial review may be possible. Get advice quickly.
Sources
Statutory references are to the provisions listed below, as consolidated on e-Laws when this page was prepared.
- Ontario College of Teachers Act, 1996, s. 29.2 — Checked November 10, 2026.
- Early Childhood Educators Act, 2007, ss. 32.2, 49.3 — Checked November 10, 2026.