As Richmonds students and teachers head back to school next week, they can expect an easier year than last with increased labour certainty, according to Richmond school district chair Donna Sargent.
There does need to be work done on the part of the province for open communication with the teachers, said Sargent. In Richmond, were a good example of how we work hard with our teachers. They are extremely important to us. We need to have a strong respect for them and an open dialogue.
B.C. Education Minister George Abbott, who announced his resignation yesterday, said hes hoping for better relations with the provinces 40,000 public school teachers after the temporary contract agreement in June at a conference call Tuesday afternoon.
I think Im pretty confident it will be a good school year in terms of labour relations, but I dont think we can take anything for granted, he said.
Sargent highlighted the importance of communication between all parties involved, something Richmond Teachers Association (RTA) president Al Klassen is skeptical about.
Weve welcomed the initiatives in the past, and weve been hopeful about the government, but through negotiations of the past year, the teachers are not happy about the stance (Abbott) took on many of the issues, said Klassen. His actions belie his words.
Klassen said most of the issues the teachers had last year have not been resolved in terms of wages, class size and composition, leaving many frustrated. However, most Richmond teachers are at least relieved there is a contract in place and are happy to return to work in September, he added.
Its going to be an interesting year, with some interesting dynamics, said Klassen. It wont be normal because of the unresolved issues. There are still burrs under the saddle, so of speak, and until theyre removed, there wont be a straightforward, open discussion.
But if (Abbott) is sincere, we would welcome the opportunity to take part and improve the education system.
Last September, the provinces teachers refused to perform certain administrative duties in a dispute over wages, class sizes and class composition.
At the height of their job action, teachers walked out of their classrooms for three days before being forced back to work by government legislation.
In June, members of the teachers federation voted 75 per cent in favour of a new contract with the province, although the turnout was low and it will only last another year.
The new contracts gives teachers improved benefits and seniority provisions but no wage increase. The current contract expires in June 2013 and negotiations will begin next spring.
with a file from The Province
