What would you do if your task was to remove resources and supports from one of the most vulnerable populations in our communities? How would you do this without drawing the ire of those within those communities? And would it be possible to actually convince those very people to advocate alongside you for the elimination of those resources and supports?

A strong and vibrant public education system is the foundation for all that British Columbia is, and aspires to be. Public education should provide the basis for economic self-sufficiency, and improve social well-being across our province. It should unify our diverse and multicultural population into caring and cooperative communities. We cannot realize the promises of reconciliation with Indigenous communities without it. Our democratic institutions of governance would not exist without an educated public. These are the values I expected the John Horgan government to act on, but they do not reflect the current policy directions.

While public-school teachers in British Columbia are busy working in overcrowded classrooms, struggling to meet the needs of all students, and dealing with ever increasing demands (with fewer resources), teachers are now facing another stressor: Deciding how to best apply the pressure needed to ensure that the government delivers on its promise to value public education.

There’s a common misconception that compromise has a role in the collective bargaining process. But in reality, compromise is never part of the bargaining equation. Here’s why…

Our bloggers are teachers who are standing strong for B.C. public education. We will provide teachers and other public education advocates with diverse, informative, and thought-provoking news and views on the teaching profession. We hope to build vibrant conversation and strong community around the value of public education, by standing strong for public-schools and the teaching profession.