To the editor:
Re: "Class Notes," Oct. 19; "Letter of the week," Oct. 21.
VESTA sends questionnaires to all school board candidates. The questions reflect goals and advocacy priorities for VESTA and the BCTF. Responses permit the union to identify and support candidates who support their union.
As a trustee candidate, I did not complete VESTA's questionnaires. I did not want endorsement. Why does a trustee candidate not want endorsement from VESTA or BCTF?
First, endorsement signifies alignment with the local and provincial teachers' unions. It also signifies commitment to a specific type of advocacy. A "beat up on the province" or a "poke your fingers in the eyes of the minister" approach characteristic of the current COPE/ Vision board. Other ways to advocate are not accepted. To court such limitations is irresponsible, counter-productive and an abrogation of trustee responsibility.
Second, trustees co-govern with the province. The board is employer not only of teachers but also of all its unionized and non-unionized employees. To align with one group of employees to the exclusion of others creates an inherent conflict of interest.
All employees must have confidence that the board is unbiased in all matters related to employment. When trustees are endorsed and financially supported by VESTA, a relationship of trust that is necessary between the board as employer and all employee groups is compromised.
How does this relate to Julie Kaye's letter? There is an out-migration from public to private schools. The explanation is broader than a lack of funding. Parents express concern about the degree of teacher union influence on all aspects of public education and specifically on the role of boards. Endorsement of school board candidates is one example of this influence.
Carol Gibson, School Trustee
Vancouver
