Teachers Voting On Tentative Deal

The Vernon local of the BC Teachers Federation will be voting today (Wednesday) through Friday on the tentative agreement over classroom conditions with the Province.

The Supreme Courts ruling in favour of negotiating teacher numbers and classroom composition and size has been greeted positively by teachers.

Local union President Lisa LaBoucane says it could mean a large increase in teaching positions for Vernon.

“We will be working with the District to get a clearer picture of what those numbers will be needed for September. We would estimate at least 30 will be needed but it could be significantly more.”

LaBoucane says the language in the agreement is 15 years old and needs significant updating.

“We’re looking forward to continuing to negotiate in the future and get improvements in these conditions, especially in increases in Provincial funding.”

LaBoucane says she expects positive results from this vote.

“There will be good supports coming back in, but 15 year old language is certainly not enough considering the needs in our schools right now