Summer News

Indeed, we are living in interesting times. Two weeks ago at the General Meeting we
celebrated the historical win regarding Bills 27 and 28. We also mourned the loss of our CVTA contract – the result of the BCTF Executive’s decision not to appeal the Supreme Court’s ruling that “significant harm did not occur” when our contract was vaporized in 2002 and we were forced into an alliance with the Nelson District teachers. The meeting also unanimously called for the executive to arrange a meeting with the BCTF President Susan Lambert to discuss our concerns regarding this momentous loss. That meeting will be held at the PCSS music room on June 14th at 4 pm.
This meeting will be crucial as the result of a motion passed at the Representative
Assembly calling for a strike vote this month. The lack of progress at both the provincial and local table has clearly indicated the need for a mandate which will empower bargaining teams in order to motivate progress at the bargaining tables. We will be conducting school visits leading up to the vote to be held June 24, 27, and 28. The executive will need to make some decisions around the model of the vote, and we will be communicating with staff reps so you are kept well informed and participate fully regarding this issue.

We have had questions around the idea of professional development being held during
the summer months – a vote which will be held at all schools soon. Our contract clearly
states that the Board cannot force teachers to work outside the regular school
year. However, some staffs wish to take days in lieu for time worked in the summer. The
CVTA has encouraged staffs to make school based decisions regarding this – with the
information that the BCTF actually has policy which encourages members to resist
this. We believe that if members have developed and planned good professional
development opportunities at schools – not in service or meetings to deal with
accountability – members should have the right to choose. This being said, the key is the involvement of members in planning the summer professional development. PD
Committees at schools will be able to fully advise members of what will be occurring in
the summer dates.

On a much lighter and positive note, the Retirement Banquet this month will be expanded to include an Induction Ceremony for new members to our profession. We are hoping members will be encouraged to attend a ceremony which celebrates the conclusion of successful careers, and the beginning of new careers. You can buy your ticket from your staff rep - $25 for a great meal and evening of professional comradeship. See you there!

(Originally posted by Becky May 30, 2011)