Editor:
I want to impress upon you the importance of public education and critical thought. We live in a sensational age, where outlandish slogans and an escalation of rhetoric seems the only means of captivating an audience. Are we that disinterested in the welfare of the general public? It’s a fact that educational attainment impacts physical/mental health and biopsychosocial functioning.
So, why are just teachers and a few parents standing on the front lines, battling for the right to an equitable education?
Teachers are not holding us hostage. It’s this type of hyperbole that suggests not enough of us are critically thinking or doing our own investigative research into the matter.
Teachers work in the field; they have an insight into how education is being funded, managed, and implemented, and unlike principals and superintendents, are not muzzled by signed agreements disallowing them from having an adverse ministerial opinion.
Teachers have a vested financial interest, but that does not negate the fact that we all collectively benefit, economically and socially, from an educated public.
We should all care. While human nature takes the path of least resistance, when faced with a challenge, most of us would rise.
Teachers have done their due diligence by informing the public that the system is sick. They should take a step back and let the rest of the population take up the fight. Have you recently asked yourself what legacy this or any government is trying to leave? Does it match your ideals? What are you doing about it?
Public education is everyone’s fight and, unfortunately, an end to the lockout/strike does not preclude an end to ignorance and apathy.
Jennifer MacInnes, Gibsons
