Thank you for defending policies and resources that show students they don’t need to hide who they are, and that all families and individuals deserve respect and recognition.
November 2023
The first few months of this school year have not been easy for many of our members given events taking place in our communities and our world. Recently, we’ve seen anti-SOGI protests outside local offices and community gathering sites around the province. The misinformation used to spew anti-2SLGBTQIA+ rhetoric is worrying and alarming. I want to recognize and applaud the work BCTF members are doing every day to protect their colleagues and students from discrimination and harassment related to sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI).
SOGI resources are intended to ensure schools are spaces where everyone is welcome, bullying is not tolerated, and students can express themselves in a genuine way that is true to who they are. The work teachers do with these resources, and the relationships you build with students and staff, are essential to creating safe and inclusive schools. Thank you for defending policies and resources that show students they don’t need to hide who they are, and that all families and individuals deserve respect and recognition.
In the midst of a school year with both global and community stresses causing increased concern among students, teachers, and families, Grades 4 and 7 teachers are again expected to administer the Foundation Skills Assessment (FSA). This standardized test disrupts learning and is an unnecessary and inequitable stress—particularly for vulnerable students. The Fraser Institute’s use of the FSA data to devalue the incredible work being done in communities across BC is both demoralizing and unjust. To learn more about the BCTF’s campaign against the FSA, visit bctf.ca/fsa.
I’d also like to acknowledge the work that occurs in all public schools around the province—all of which are providing a supportive and engaging learning environment for kids. The BCTF strongly believes that student success doesn’t have a postal code. Teachers are differentiating learning; supporting students to meet them where they’re at; and teaching kindness, empathy, and citizenship—all important learning the FSA doesn’t measure.
Finally, to the staff at Hazel Trembath Elementary School in Coquitlam, I see the incredible amount of work and dedication it has taken to start new routines and bring some normalcy to students’ lives after the devastating fire that destroyed your school site. The whole school community has been deeply affected by this fire, and our hearts go out to all the staff, students, and families.
In solidarity,
Clint Johnston
BCTF President
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