Education belongs to communities. It has always been the case in our nation. You have heard about the importance of “Local voices and local choices” when it comes to decision-making. However, as we begin a new school year you may wonder, “How do I use my voice to ensure those chosen to represent me, know my thoughts?” It is an important question.
In a little over a month, we will choose who will represent our voices in education. I encourage you to include trustees in your thoughts as you elect local government representatives, municipal councils, and school board members.
Once the choosing part is complete, how is your voice heard in education?
There is a common process that works on the principle that the closer to the circumstance, the better. If you have concerns as a parent, going to your child’s teacher is the first step. They are closest to working with your child and the situation can be resolved at that point.
Some situations do not always get resolved in the classroom and the next step would be to speak to the principal of the school. They lead what happens within their buildings and may be able to resolve the concerns you have at that point. Again, it depends on the situation and whether your concerns can be addressed at the school.
There are times when the circumstances warrant the divisional administration to be involved. Whether it involves educational or operational concerns, there is divisional staff who work daily with board and government policy. They are in place to help ensure the school division operates well. Most situations and concerns about the educational needs of students can be addressed through these avenues.
However, not everything gets resolved. Some situations require the Board to examine or change policy. Some circumstances warrant further examination and collection of information. Some come to the Board if a circumstance is not fully resolved through these other steps. The Board is the last avenue for appeal on a decision with the Division. MVSD has established procedures to ensure effective steps in communication of complaints and/or concerns (see AR10 – Resolving Complaints Procedure).
Apart from this process, trustees are chosen and available to hear concerns. The nature of the concern will determine whether they will raise them at the board table or whether they will encourage you to speak to the classroom teacher, principal, and so on. Most of the time, concerns can be resolved because of the local nature of decision-making.
Some concerns or situations, however, are beyond the authority of school boards. Legislation, whether provincial or federal, determines the actions boards can take or not take. Sometimes concerns are raised where the Board is unable to respond. This occurs when “anonymous” letters come to the Board. Who does the Board respond to or receive clarification from when a concern is not signed? The Board has no one to go to. It is hard to address these unsigned letters.
During this school year, increased engagement with our communities is being planned for the Board to hear and receive perspectives from each of our communities as part of our planning process. There will be greater opportunities to hear from the local voice that is so vital to education. We look forward to these discussions as a newly elected board provides the opportunity for a local voice.