SCHOOL FOR THOUGHT

Don’t let your kids be used as pawns

GUEST BLOG BY NANCY WAGNER, SQE TREASURER

It seems from recent news coverage, that more and more Ontario students are being affected by teacher-union “work to rule” actions. In my local paper today, one parent expressed his frustration on finding out that his daughter’s grade 8 grad has already been cancelled. This on top of the cancellation of all school sports! The parent stated that he would usually have sympathy for the teachers, but is now angry and offside.

When teachers fought against previous governments (remember “cuts hurt kids”, and “teachers working conditions are your child’s learning conditions”), many parents were onside. This is no longer the case. Families have been dealing with cutbacks, downsizing and frozen wages  for some time now. There is little sympathy for employees in sectors protected from the effects of an underperforming provincial economy. And that lack of sympathy will quickly turn to resentment if tone-deaf union leaders don’t wake up!

Meanwhile, we still have students who  will miss out on the extra-curricular activities that keep them engaged in their school careers. There isn’t much parents can do to replace the loss of sports teams. Apparently, regulations require that a certified teacher be on hand to coach. But when it comes to events such as class trips and grad dances, parents could and should get together and make these things happen for the students. For instance, a class trip to visit the parliament buildings (now cancelled at one local school) can still happen. Parent volunteers can book a bus and schedule the trip on a Professional Activity day.

When my oldest was in Grade 8, his end-of-year class trip was cancelled by the principal, due to misbehavior on the part of a couple of the students. The class teacher thought this was an over-reaction and totally unfair to the majority of the class. He quietly let it be known that he thought parents should take over and continue with the plans. For obvious reasons, he could no longer be involved.

So that is exactly what we did! The trip was to a Blue Jays game and took place on a Sunday. It was a resounding success!

Parents, if your child’s grad has been cancelled, form a committee of volunteers, book a venue, and hold a dance for your kids. Do not let anyone use your children as pawns!