Dear Editor:
An open letter to Education Minister Peter Fassbender:
I am copying you on an email that I sent to my Member of the Legislative Assembly. I implore you to be a powerful problem solver for the sake of the children of British Columbia. I realize that most situations are complex, as I am sure the teachers’ labour dispute is; however, I am disappointed in you and your government’s position and leadership on this issue.
Class size and composition are real problems that need to be addressed. It was a problem before you came to power, so you are not responsible for the creation of this problem. I would appreciate a change of policy or position on your government’s part so our children can get what they deserve – a decent learning environment.
My vote is tied to this issue, and many of my friends, family and colleagues feel that we can see through the spin in the media. Please know that I am not on the side of the teachers but rather on the side of the children in classrooms that are not conducive to learning. I cannot emphasize enough that this is a moral issue that will define your legacy as a leader.
Imagine yourself looking back on your life and knowing you played your part in restoring a healthy and productive learning environment for thousands and thousands of children. What an opportunity you have.
Michael Bouchard
(second letter copied)
Hello Ms. Darcy,
Thank you for your willingness to serve as a representative of the people. I imagine that this is a difficult challenge and have heard nothing but great comments about the job you are doing.
I am also writing to express my disappointment in the political leadership around the teachers’ strike. The Minister of Education needs to be an inspiring figure for teachers, not a political figurehead for contract negotiations. I am angered by the lack of awareness the government has around class size and composition. I want my child’s teacher to have a reasonable working environment. I want special needs children in my child’s classroom with the proper support. I am willing to pay higher taxes if need be for this to happen. I would also suggest that the balance between health-care spending and education is not ideal.
I appreciate that it is difficult to get health-care spending under control; however, this will be an essential objective to accomplish if we are to have the public money required to properly educate our children.
Michael Bouchard, New Westminster
