As students across Ontario, discrepancies in schedules, particularly during reading weeks, create several challenges for us. When reading weeks differ from one university to another, it leads to many of us becoming distracted. Imagine having to focus on midterms while your friends from other universities are on their reading break. More than a simple distraction, it's not equitable.

The variances in reading week timings lead to an indirect form of discrimination. Some universities end up scheduling reading weeks during fair weather conditions, thus creating an uneven educational experience.

We propose that all Ontario universities synchronize their reading weeks with the date being the last week of October. This has potential benefits for all Ontario students. A well-scheduled reading week can be crucial to a student's mental wellbeing and overall academic performance. Accordingly, the more educated students are, thus the more educated the labour force will be, and thus the more economic growth Ontario will experience. 

We're not asking for the moon here, simply the implementation of a synchronized reading week across all Ontario universities at the end of October. This promotes equal opportunity, stress relief, and will ensure students do not have to grapple with the distractions of differing schedules. Let's work towards an equitable educational environment where all students, regardless of their institution, can benefit. Let’s make sure those that will make up the labour force in the future are as set up for success as possible. Please sign this petition to support this clarion call, and to make Ontario as prosperous as possible.