I am not a teacher, nor am I an elected government official. I am a taxpayer, and a parent of three children--who should be in school. My oldest son has a diagnosis of PDD-NOS, and ADHD, which is a challenge to his learning and behaviour at school. I am not perfect as his parent, after all he didn't come with an instruction manual or warning labels. It can be trying to deal with him, even though he is a good kid! I know he is extra work for the school, but I was assured his diagnosis assured him extra help. I appreciate the work and effort of the individuals who have been assigned to him throughout his school career.
What I do not appreciate is the current state of affairs in our fine province. The provincial government and the British Columbia Teachers' Federation are locked in a nasty contract dispute. This dispute has dragged on for some months now. At the beginning I tried to be patient and understanding, but at this point it seems all we are hearing is propaganda from both sides. I am now using the situation as an example of how adults (educated ones at that) shouldn't go about resolving their differences.
I will say, I agree unions have their place. They are instrumental in making sure qualified, hard-working employees receive fair wages and benefits to enrich their lives. What I fail to agree on is tactics to push your employer for wage increases, when the employer says it is unaffordable. (I can't imagine going into my employer's office and pushing the matter after being told no.)
If both parties have truly put the most they are willing/capable of on the bargaining table, it may be time for that oh so adult word, COMPROMISE!
The bargaining parties seem to have lost sight of what's truly important here--educating our youth.
I respect that teachers have unique training and skills to do their jobs, but I also say as a working person, that I too am good at the job I do, and if we all strike because we're unhappy--everything would come to a screeching halt!
To the government: Cut some redundancies or waste, and I am sure a fair, affordable deal can be reached.
To those who say the $40/day offer to parents is a bribe. A bribe to do what, exactly?
It's not like I suddenly "see the light," and believe the government is right.
I am personally being inconvenienced as a result of this dispute. I don't see how they have the right to turn everyone else's life topsy-turvy. I cannot work the hours I would like to, and as a result I am losing household income? Are my kids worth it? A resounding YES! The $40/day stipend will likely go to school-related expenses, and possibly some RESP contributions.
So, please to everyone involved, try to find some common ground to work from, and let's just see if we can"t get these kids back into their classrooms where they should be. Until then, this Mom will be holding you up as a shining example of what NOT to do when you can't reach an agreement!
