Peter Fassbender, the province’s education minister, believes a deal with teachers can be hammered out before school is set to re-open on Tuesday, Sept. 2.
But while many hope the province and the B.C. Teachers’ Federation (BCTF) can work out their differences before the end of the Labour Day long weekend, there is still a chance that a deal can’t be reached in time.
Not encouraging is the fact BCTF brass will be in Kamloops this weekend, meeting and rallying, rather than at the bargaining table, negotiating with the B.C. Public School Employers’ Association.
While mediator Vince Ready has imposed a gag order on both sides, Fassbender made the media rounds on Thursday, Aug. 21, which only angered BCTF president Jim Iker, who expressed his displeasure in a press release.
This entire saga has crossed the border from silly to ridiculous.
So, what is a parent to do?
Employ Plan B.
Now is a good time to talk to your kids about the school year, new routines, and stock up on school supplies.
At the same time, just to be ready, families should make alternative plans in case school doesn’t open on time.
There will be strike camps offered for kids, while private learning facilities will certainly be reaching out.
Nobody likes uncertainty but, with a little foresight, families can be prepared for what’s ahead.
Here’s hoping the bell does indeed ring early on the first morning after Labour Day.
— Kamloops This Week
