Concerns and Complaints

Ontario schools are safe, supportive environments.

While complaints against Ontario Certified Teachers (OCTs) are rare, the College is responsible for addressing all cases of alleged misconduct, incompetence and incapacity. 

You can find the full details of what constitutes professional misconduct in the Professional Misconduct Regulation under the Ontario College of Teachers Act. 

About the concerns and complaints process

Anyone can report a concern about an OCT.

The College screens every concern to determine whether an investigation is appropriate and that it meets the requirements under the College’s governing legislation. An investigation is initiated when a Request to Initiate Investigation form is signed by the public complainant. Once an investigation is opened, a College investigator gathers all available relevant documentation and information regarding the complaint.  

The information gathered by the investigator is compiled into a report, which is reviewed by a panel of the Investigation Committee who decides what action should be taken, if any. This may include referring the matter to the Fitness to Practise Committee or the Discipline Committee for a hearing.  

Learn more about: 

• The concerns and complaints process
• How to submit a concern 
• The role of the Investigation Committee 
• Your Duty to Report as an employer
• What happens after the matter is referred for a hearing

If you’re the subject of a complaint

OCTs who have had a complaint filed against them can learn more about:  

• Your rights during the investigation and disciplinary process
• Prescribed professional learning courses
• Your member reporting obligations

Committed to fairness

The College is committed to a fair and transparent complaints and discipline process. We support this commitment by researching and adopting best practices in professional regulation and through external reviews.