In recognition of the importance of a strong, co-governed public education system, Education Minister Peter Fassbender and the BC School Trustees Association (BCSTA) have recommitted to a co-operative and co-ordinated partnership.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed today to clearly define the relationship between the parties and guide them in a way that best benefits B.C. students. An MOU with the BCSTA has been place since 2003, and this renewal recognizes the separate and shared responsibilities each party has in maintaining a world-class education system and lays out principles that will ensure continued collaboration.

These principles include a commitment to find shared opportunities to highlight achievements in the K-12 sector, specifically those focused on improved learning outcomes of students, a commitment to respect each other’s areas of jurisdiction and an agreement to co-operate on the development of policies, programs and projects.

The MOU was signed by Fassbender and Teresa Rezansoff, president of the BCSTA, in front of more than 400 trustees from around the province. Fassbender was speaking at the annual BCSTA Trustee Academy, which sees new and re-elected trustees come together to participate in mentoring exercises as well as a variety of presentations by staff from the Ministry of Education, school districts and partner organizations.

Formed in 1905, the BCSTA was the first school trustees association in Canada. As the voice of elected boards of education in B.C., the BCSTA is a key partner in the public education system. The association supports boards and trustees in their work of improving student achievement and acts as the agent for boards to work with government, other partners and the public on matters of public education.  

Learn More:

Co-Governance Relationship, Memorandum of Understanding:
http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/DownloadAsset?assetId=9B60460FD28F4B48953CC12BAB0EF621  

BC School Trustees Association: http://www.bcsta.org/

Media Contact: 

Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Education
250 356-5963