August 29, 2014
Dear Parents/Guardians:
I want to take this opportunity to once again update you on the provincial labour dispute and when
schools can open. There is clearly a sense of optimism, although cautious optimism, now that mediator
Vince Ready is actively involved with the labour dispute. I have heard both the British Columbia Public
School Employers’ Association and the British Columbia Teachers’ Federation speak positively regarding
Mr. Ready’s skills, talents and ability to bring the two sides to agreement.
When an agreement is signed, the New Westminster School District will do everything possible to have
schools open and receiving students. I am asking parents to monitor the media and our website
(
www.sd40.bc.ca) for updated information. I would encourage you to listen to media reports that will
let you know if a settlement has been reached. Typically, when agreements are reached, there is also an
agreement or protocol for when teachers will be back in school to teach the students. We cannot be
sure at this time that the protocol will allow schools to open September 2nd, 2014. This is why it will be
important to follow the media so you will know when classes will resume.
The news of having Vince Ready mediate is certainly an important step in the right direction. I cannot
help but feel encouraged and optimistic. I look forward to having our students back in school receiving
the assistance and the instruction that they need from our amazing group of educators.