The Editor,
Teachers are the cornerstone of our educational system. Without their creativity, dedication, inspiration and skill, we would not have the successful public schools that we have taken for granted in our province.
As a former teacher before entering the field of creating music for children, I know firsthand how hard teachers work.
Being a teacher today is very demanding with many children requiring special education within the classroom. Our society benefits from every child having a chance to fulfill their potential and become a capable, contributing adult. Creating a safe and stimulating classroom environment for all children is a challenging job.
Our teachers deserve our appreciation and respect for the excellent work that they do.
Christy Clark and our provincial government have closed the door to fair negotiations. Teachers have been locked out of their classrooms, suffered loss of wages, and had to endure a very toxic attack on their rights for a fair settlement. They deserve our support and the needs of their students deserve careful consideration.
Section E80 of the government package would take away all that was gained in the court rulings after class size and class composition were stripped from the collective agreement of 2002. The government budget is there to make B.C.’s educational system a vibrant institution. What we value in our society will thrive when there are better supports for children.
Our teachers deserve more than “Four Hugs a Day!” So do our students. Let’s get everyone back to school.
Charlotte Diamond
Richmond
