Dear parents of Vancouver public school students:

I know many of you are concerned about what’s been happening around the Vancouver school board. I am too. We are focused on making sure the VSB delivers a quality learning experience, unaffected by what is underway.

Recently, the BC School Superintendents Association informed us of troubling allegations regarding trustees and a workplace that has become toxic for staff who are vital to your board. No parent wants to hear even a hint that something like that could he happening in the place responsible for leading the education of their children.

I want to reassure you that those allegations are being taken seriously – and the matter has been referred to WorkSafeBC because of its jurisdiction regarding bullying and harassment in the workplace.

As well, we will soon be receiving the full report of the special advisor appointed in July to scrutinize the financial situation and management practices of the Vancouver school board.

Here is my commitment to you: we will work to ensure teachers, principals and staff at the Vancouver school board are supported through this period.

The Ministry of Education will remain actively engaged on the education situation in Vancouver. We will move carefully and responsibly through this situation. We remain focused on ensuring the needs of our students and their education is at the heart of what happens.

Sincerely,

Mike Bernier

Minister of Education