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Europe Scorched by Record Heatwave: France and Italy Take Emergency Measures

As a blistering heatwave tightens its grip on Europe, countries are scrambling to protect citizens from soaring temperatures and mounting health risks. France has shuttered over 1,350 schools  and closed the top floor of the Eiffel Tower as temperatures surged past 40°C (104°F)  in several regions. Sixteen French departments are now under the highest heat alert, with authorities urging people to stay hydrated and indoors during peak hours. Meanwhile, Italy has imposed restrictions on outdoor work , particularly in agriculture and construction, during the hottest parts of the day. Cities like Rome, Milan, and Venice are under red alerts, with hospitals reporting a spike in heat-related illnesses. The Mediterranean Sea has also hit record highs, with waters in Spain’s Balearic Sea reaching 30°C , up to 6 degrees above average. Scientists warn that Europe—already warming at twice the global average —is facing increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves due to climate change. New ...

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Ontario Expands Teacher Training to Address Shortage

Ontario is taking a significant step to combat the ongoing teacher shortage by adding 2,600 new spaces to teachers' colleges across the province. The initiative, backed by a $55.8 million investment over two years, aims to train new educators by 2027.

Colleges and Universities Minister Nolan Quinn emphasized that the funding will support all institutions offering a Bachelor of Education program, with spaces becoming available as early as September. The expansion prioritizes northern and rural areas, technological education, and French-language instruction, which have been identified as areas of heightened need.

While teachers' unions welcome the move, they stress that recruitment alone will not solve the problem. Retention remains a key issue, with many qualified teachers opting out of the profession due to challenging working conditions, overcrowded classrooms, and deteriorating infrastructure. The Ontario Teachers’ Federation estimates that 48,000 certified teachers are not currently working in the province’s education system.

The government is also exploring shortening the length of teachers' college, which was extended to two years a decade ago when Ontario faced a teacher surplus. As the province braces for a worsening shortage starting in 2027, officials continue to seek solutions to ensure a stable and well-supported teaching workforce.

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