As a lifelong activist on behalf of public education, I am horribly alarmed at the prospect of a B.C. Conservative government. John Rustad‘s proposal to remove “a tremendous number of portables” by imposing “even a 20% increase” in class sizes will make it harder for kids to get the attention and support they need on their learning journeys.
Contrast that Conservative position with Premier David Eby’s commitments to offer more support for kids in public schools. He promises, among others, these two examples: increased staffing for students with complex needs in the critical kindergarten to Grade 3 years, and the provision of mental health counsellors.
Please, when you go to the polls this month, include what’s good for public schools and students in your consideration of voting choices. I am confident that Sarah Riddell, our local NDP candidate, will bring her considerable talents to improving opportunities for kids in our SD63 schools.
Elsie McMurphy
North Saanich
