Dear Colleagues:
For the last decade successive provincial governments have increased class sizes in this province by amending the Teacher Allocation Model established in 2008. These changes to the teacher allocation formula occurred in the absence of a cabinet directed review of allocations, which was supposed to occur in 2011. We have seen, and teachers and students are currently living the impact of these decisions.
We are encouraged that the current provincial government has made a commitment to conduct and has started the process to establish a committee to carry out the long-overdue independent review of the Teacher Allocation Model.
Class Size Counts: Now…More than Ever
Your Association has repeatedly raised concerns with government officials regarding the adverse impact on children’s education of increasing class sizes while forcing the integration of students with special needs into the regular classroom without adequate supports.
With a provincial budget cycle looming, the recommendations of the Premier's Economic Recovery Team announced, and the pending Teacher Allocation Model review, it is time to relaunch the NLTA Class Size campaign and help the general public to become more informed and involved in the conversation and debate on class size and class composition.
To this end, the NLTA is distributing “Class Size Counts: Now… More Than Ever” pins and lanyards. The purpose of these items is to bring more attention to this important issue and encourage discussions between teachers and parents regarding the impact class size and composition are having on children’s education.
All members are asked to display the pins or lanyards in the workplace and during their daily routines. In doing so, you will assist your Association in advocating for a better resourced education system for our students.
It is Your Charter Right
All NLTA members enjoy the constitutional rights protected under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. This includes the fundamental right to freedom of expression. Your Association has sought legal advice on teachers displaying the “Class Size Counts: Now…More Than Ever” items in the workplace. Please be advised that there is jurisprudence on this issue from both arbitrators and the courts in British Columbia.
What Can You Do
• Display the lanyard/pin in the workplace and during your daily routine.
• Wear the lanyard/pin during your daily routine.
Stand on Your Rights
As the wearing of these types of items is constitutionally protected, which has been upheld by arbitrators and the courts, the Association does not expect that teachers will be directed to remove them from the workplace. However, should any member be directed to either remove the items or to direct others to remove the items, they are advised to comply and to contact the Association as soon as possible. The NLTA will take any infringement on teachers’ fundamental Charter rights seriously and engage all necessary avenues and resources to address same.
As always your cooperation is appreciated.
Trent Langdon
NLTA President
