Support schools not casinos
Salmon Arm Observer
April 20, 2010
Louise Wallace

An open letter to Margaret MacDiarmid, Minister of Education:

Further to your press release announcing the appointment of a special advisor to the Vancouver School District, I cannot overemphasize, both as a taxpayer and a parent of students in the education system, how distressing it is to read of your utter disrespect for the legally established school board’s jurisdiction.

“The Vancouver Board of Education has repeatedly stated they are looking at measures that are unacceptable for students and their families. We believe there are other options available and the appointment of a special advisor will ensure resources are being focused on students in the classroom,” said MacDiarmid. “All public entities, including the Vancouver Board of Education, must look for administrative efficiencies.”

What could be more important than a properly funded education system? A new roof for BC Place and a giant casino next door? I believe that these measures are unacceptable for students and their families. I also believe there are other options available to the voters to ensure our resources are being focused on students in the classroom. Clearly, your leadership of this ministry and the re-election of this government are the most deserving of drastic cuts given your shocking disregard for what faces students in the coming years.

Children live what they learn. And from this government, they are learning cheap shots, blame and disrespect. A shameful legacy indeed.

Please get your priorities straight. And that starts by accepting responsibility for this fiasco and making it right. We expect nothing less.