With the new school year arriving Tuesday, the Vernon Teachers' Association says it's an exciting time with the welcoming back of over 660 teachers to classrooms in the district. However, its a number the association says is too low in order to best meet the needs of students.
91裸聊视频淭he back-to-school season is always an exhilarating time,91裸聊视频 said Dave MacKenzie, the association's president. 91裸聊视频淭eachers, much like their students, are filled with excitement about meeting new faces, developing creative lesson plans, and setting goals for the year.
"However, we also face ongoing challenges, particularly with staffing shortages that require teachers to stretch their resources to fill in gaps and ensure every student receives the support they need.91裸聊视频
The association says recent surveys highlight growing concerns among B.C. teachers who are reporting increased workloads and fewer resources to support their students, challenges it says are compounded by chronic underfunding in public education, leading to a "crisis point" affecting both teachers and students.
MacKenzie said 15 per cent of teachers are considering leaving the profession in the next two years, emphasizing the need for "significant" investment in teacher retention and recruitment.
91裸聊视频淧ublic education in British Columbia needs a dramatic course correction. We must focus on what a well-funded education system could achieve for our students,91裸聊视频 MacKenzie said. 91裸聊视频淚magine a school environment where every student has access to a dedicated counsellor, sufficient teachers on call to cover routine absences, and early intervention support for students with special needs. These should not be mere aspirations 91裸聊视频 British Columbia91裸聊视频檚 families deserve better.91裸聊视频
The association remains committed to building a positive workplace culture despite the staffing challenges. Recent discussions have taken place with partners from CUPE, DPAC and the Vernon School District, including new superintendent Karla Mitchell, which the association says have involved open and transparent communication.
91裸聊视频淲e are dedicated to continuing our work on employee wellness and fostering an environment where compassion, curiosity and understanding guide our actions,91裸聊视频 MacKenzie said.
The association is gearing up for local bargaining this fall and is encouraging members to participate in the process. The association has also planned several events to strengthen connections among members.
91裸聊视频淲e are looking forward to a fantastic year ahead and are committed to working together to improve our working conditions and, by extension, the learning conditions of our students,91裸聊视频 MacKenzie said.