Dear Editor:
It's been an oddly quiet spring for me. I've seen more of my family and been getting marking and lesson planning done after school. I've had more time for myself.
I'm not sure I like it.
I miss being ridiculously busy this time of year - because that's what I usually am. I'm a teacher and a track coach.
On March 16, the North Shore News published my letter, I'm Sorry Kids, but I Have to Take a Stand. In it, I explained why West Vancouver teachers voted - well before the rest of the province - to withdraw volunteer services. I described how I love volunteering, but that the situation we find ourselves in during these "negotiations" calls for a strong, principled stand. Because the government has stripped the bargaining rights we earned over the decades, an extreme action is all that's left.
Personally, I'm not doing this for more money or better benefits or more prep time, although those would be nice. I'm doing fine. For me, this is a matter of democratic principle. If we don't push back, we deserve what we get. Silence is not an option.
Since our district voted, the BCTF membership also withdrew volunteer services. Now people around the province are learning how deeply the provincial school system relies on the good will of teachers who coach, run clubs, serve on committees, supervise dances, organize field trips, chaperone outdoor camps, write reference letters, and develop new educational programs. The fact that some teachers continue to help out is testament to how hard not volunteering is. Some people simply cannot stop. I understand that. Not volunteering deeply troubles my colleagues, but they have stuck to their principles.
I know this inconveniences kids and parents. I know that for many students, sports and clubs is their school experience. I know that many parents, including ours, have stepped up to the plate to help. This is good.
My track parents at Sentinel have been very supportive during this process - as they always have been of my coaches and me. We're thankful for that. I have helped enough to ensure they know where the uniforms are and that the javelins get thrown straight. (Thank goodness!) Our athletes sport buttons that say: We Support Our Teachers. What a lovely gesture. I know they catch grief for this. Our parent coaches tell me that they have a deeper appreciation for what we do because, yes, it takes a lot of time and passion. Creating awareness is our goal.
Are our efforts making a difference? I hope so. I hope that because of them, more school districts (like ours has) will speak out when needed. I hope more parents will ask questions and learn how the system really works.
So, to my colleagues: Stay united. To parents and trustees who are upset: Demand action from the government. To our decision makers, ask yourselves: Why would teachers go to this length to make a point?
Hugh Wilson, Sentinel secondary
