Teachers, parents press B.C. NDP government on Surrey school concerns

Teachers, parents and school support workers are pushing for more action – and more funding – from the NDP government when it comes to Surrey schools.

Upset with a range of issues, from the increased use of portable classrooms, to what they call insufficient supports for disabled students and those with other needs, groups held a news conference on Monday to highlight their concerns.

“One of the things that we want to really make clear is that this is no longer a past government’s issue, something that was inherited,” said Anne Whitmore, president of Surrey District Parent Advisory Council.

“This is this government’s issue. So, we are asking this government to do what’s needed to make significant change.”

Specifically, teachers and parent groups want Premier David Eby to give new Education Minister Lisa Beare specific instructions to address these issues when he delivers her mandate letter in the new year.

“There are ways to deal with and respond to the teacher shortage,” said Lizanne Foster, president of the Surrey Teachers’ Association. “That would make a significant difference because – part of the thing that’s happening in schools right now – is that there are not enough teachers for the needs of students to be met.”

In response to some of the concerns raised on Monday, Beare sent a statement to CTV News.

"Having served as a former school trustee and as the mother of a young student attending public school, I understand firsthand the challenges some students face,” the statement read, in part.

"I am ready to get to work on the important priorities facing education in B.C., including working with districts like Surrey to identify and address challenges and share best practices in supporting all students – particularly with disabilities or diverse abilities – to ensure they receive the support they need to succeed and thrive in school.”

The B.C. NDP government has faced heavy criticism on school-related issues.

During October’s election, then education minister Rachna Singh failed to keep her seat in the legislature.