EDITOR,

I have been reading so many complaints about teachers. I am not a teacher, nor do I work in the schools. I was saddened to read the letter by Dave Hofer (“Way to go, students,” Chief, June 7). I agree that the students are suffering from this strike. However, the teachers are not the ones to blame. Sure, the media makes it sound like they are all just money hungry but if you research just below the surface you would see what they are really striking for: the kids. They are fighting for the kids and that is it. Teachers work long hours (many hours of planning outside of class time) and only want more for the kids. It is the Ministry of Education and administrators who do not care about the students. It is not the teachers’ job to organize an awards night and if it was... it’s done as volunteer hours. What is stopping the principal, vice principal, and other staff from volunteering their time to put on an awards night? Nothing. It is pure laziness and is just a way to try to put more anger and blame on the teachers. Teachers have stopped all voluntary work... this is true. That is very unfortunate. However, I am thankful for all the hours they put in last year and every other year to coach, plan, and organize events. I remember those times and I am thankful that they allowed us to take them from their family and their home life so that they could help us. As far as I’m aware, principals, parents, and other school staff are allowed to coach and volunteer their time. Where are they this year? Are the kids not important? Couldn’t they donate their time this year? I have faith that things will get better. The public needs to support the teachers to create a better education for all children. The sooner we show our support and voice our concerns the sooner we will get smaller class sizes, more educational support for children with disabilities, and updated resources to name a few of their demands. I say thank you teachers for all that you do!

Christina Smith

Squamish