2020
BCTF Teacher
Special AGM
Election Edition
Candidates for Executive Committee
BC Teachers’ Federation
May 25–27, 2020
2020 BCTF AGM Candidate statements
To be elected
President
First Vice-President
Second Vice-President
One Member-at-Large, Aboriginal (two-year term)
One Member-at-Large, Racialized (two-year term)
Three Member-at-Large positions (two-year terms)
May 25 – 27, 2020
FOR FULL-TIME TABLE OFFICER
Member-focused, strategic leadership
IT’S BEEN MY HONOUR to serve as your President for the last year and a privilege to engage with members and local leaders, while forging positive relationships with government and education stakeholders, to advocate for our needs and the needs of our students.
We entered this round of bargaining with high expectations. While 16 years of underfunding will not be made up in one round, we must make gains in our working conditions and salary.
FOR PRESIDENT TERI MOORING
Quesnel
EXPERIENCE
International
Education International Bangkok (2019), Trinidad (2018)
National CTF Director
Provincial
President, First Vice-President, Second Vice-President, Member-at-Large
Local
President, Vice-President, LR, Bargaining Chair
Teaching
22 years Intermediate, Resource teacher
Education
MEd (UNBC), Curriculum/ Counselling, BA (SFU)
We find ourselves in a uniquely challenging landscape, at odds with government around funding, provincial assessments, accountability, and recruitment and retention. We must continue to press government to address these issues. The teacher shortage significantly impacts our work and has a particularly detrimental impact on our most vulnerable students. Regardless of geographic location, every child deserves equitable learning conditions provided by a qualified teacher.
It was a relief when government announced a phased approach with the funding formula changes. We successfully pushed back on the prevalence model through our collective actions and advocacy. There is still much work to do to eliminate the threat of this model, but our success has given us more time and renewed energy.
Member engagement, an important Federation priority, includes reflecting on our union structures, examining and removing barriers, and ensuring all teachers find a safe space and a sense of belonging in our union and our schools.
I’m proud to lead a union that takes public positions on important matters. We raised our voices in support of the Wet’suwet’en Nation, sent aid to Australia, supported our students in their actions around the climate crisis, and took a strong stand against hate speech and discrimination in all its forms.
Many opportunities and challenges lie ahead. With your support I would be honoured to continue to work on your behalf.
FOR FULL-TIME TABLE OFFICER
Values first
IT IS AN HONOUR to put my name forward for First Vice-President on the provincial Executive Committee. I have been active in the BCTF for over 33 years. At my first union meeting someone said, “Rich would be a good vice-president,” and ever since then I have been committed to our collective solidarity.
Bargaining: I stand behind our Bargaining Team. I believe the action plan that they helped to create will allow members to support them in negotiations. Bargaining requires member engagement, and I am committed to communicating with members in an open and transparent manner so that they can make informed decisions.
FOR FIRST VICE-PRESIDENT
RICHARD HOTSON Nisga’a
EXPERIENCE
Provincial
AGM (15+), LR (5+)
Local
President (17), Vice-President (11), Bargaining Chairperson (7), Status of Women (1)
Teaching
8–12 Woodworking/Carpentry, K–12 Counselling
Education
BSc Biology major (SFU), PDP (SFU), Accelerated Technology Program (UBC)
Democracy: Elections are an opportunity for the membership to provide feedback to the leadership throughout the campaign process and ultimately the ballot box. I believe the most important part of a democracy is free and unfettered elections.
Equity and inclusion: I am very proud to be a member of the BCTF and the work we have done to promote equity and inclusion in our union, as this is crucial for solidarity and for our success. The BCTF has done much work in this area and there is still much more to do. That work includes raising awareness about racism, colonizing attitudes, and privilege within our union.
Teacher workload: Working in a small local, I have had the opportunity to see the demands placed on our teachers every day, yet they pick themselves up and come back day after day. I am tired of witnessing this, and I want to stop the system from taking advantage of our teachers’ good will.
If elected, I am committed to communicating the everyday stories of you, our classroom teachers, with the goal of increasing supports to classrooms all over the province.
FOR FULL-TIME TABLE OFFICER
Security, solidarity, equity
THE PAST YEAR as First Vice-President has brought both opportunities and challenges. Being a bargaining year with many local meetings, I have had the opportunity to connect with and hear from teachers in almost every area of the province—still the best part of this work. And it means I am well-aware of the challenges our members face: increasing and unmanageable workloads, poorly implemented and resourced policy changes, increasing violence, and more. While there are many concurrent issues to consider in our work, our current focus must remain primarily on getting a fair, negotiated contract for members.
FOR FIRST VICE-PRESIDENT
CLINT JOHNSTON Chilliwack
EXPERIENCE
International
Head of CTF Delegation, EI World Congress; ISTP 2018; FUNDE: Bolivia 2016
National
CTF Vice-President; Past Chair, CTF Indigenous Education AC; Chair, Finance Committee
Provincial BCTF First Vice-President, Member-at-Large, many internal and external committees
Local President, Bargaining Chair, etc.
Teaching 17 years Elementary
The government’s move toward prevalence funding created some of the most challenging advocacy work I have engaged in yet. Pushing back strongly for our 45,000 members in meetings with such a diversity of groups and opinions is difficult—but essential. It was incredibly gratifying to see that our collective advocacy in this area led to government not changing the model this year—proof that collectively we can achieve great results! This work is not over, however, as we need to ensure that our voice continues to be loud and clear in any further work government does on funding.
Our equity work continues: looking both outward at the workplaces and communities of teachers and inward at our policies, procedures, and structures to improve access and voice for all. I continue my personal learning and growth alongside members and bring that improving equity lens to all the work I do on behalf of our union. Addressing systemic problems requires both individual and collective work that is intentional and ongoing. Only when every member feels welcome, safe, and heard can we work together in true solidarity to achieve our goals.
It would truly be a privilege to continue to represent your voice at the provincial level.
Facebook: facebook.com/clint.johnston.92 Twitter: @ClintJohnston7
FOR FULL-TIME TABLE OFFICER
Commitment, advocacy, gratitude
IT HAS BEEN A PRIVILEGE to be Second Vice-President this past year, advocating for the needs of teachers across the province. I am grateful for the conversations with members and locals about the pressures teachers face with education policy changes in curriculum and reporting, a lack of resources and support, increased violence in the classroom, and overall workload. From the routine to the remarkable, members’ experiences form the narrative that I carry to every provincial table.
FOR SECOND
VICE-PRESIDENT
CAROLE GORDON
Central Okanagan
EXPERIENCE
Provincial
Second VP (1 yr), Executive (5 yrs), Pensions, CTF Trustee, AGM (17 yrs)
Local
Executive (Second VP, Health & Safety, Bargaining), Staff Rep
Community Provincial Candidate, Labour Council President, United Way
Teaching Elementary Prep, Classroom (28 yrs)
Close to 20 years ago, the attack on public sector wages and working conditions began under the Liberal government. After province-wide consultation, the Charter for Public Education was published and articulated the people’s values about public education, and we work to ensure education policy and decisions align with those values. As with our success in pushing back on prevalence funding, we must continue to challenge government’s neo-liberal mandates and budget priorities and focus on reaching a fair deal that leads to all BC’s public schools having qualified teachers and specialists to meet student needs.
The Federation has done much work on equity and inclusion and continues to reflect on its practices and policies in order to create more inclusive places for learning, working, and decision-making. I’m glad to be on the Executive during this time in our history, continuing my own learning and trying to effect change across the education system through my role as Second Vice-President. Our union continues to look for opportunities to enhance member involvement in schools, districts, locals and the BCTF. Solidarity relies on an engaged membership and we must remain responsive to its needs.
I am committed to amplifying voices of members across the province. The power of the BCTF is in its 45,000 members whose diverse stories and experiences shape the direction of the union.
Facebook: facebook.com/carole.gordon.921
Twitter: @CaroleGordonBC
FOR FULL-TIME TABLE OFFICER
FOR SECOND VICE-PRESIDENT
STEPHEN
QUERENGESSER
Haida Gwaii
EXPERIENCE
Provincial
AGMs (6), LR (1), Summer Conference (9), FLI (3)
Local
President (4), Bargaining (1), Pro-D Chair (3), SJ Chair (2)
Education BSc, PDPP, MEd
Teaching TTOC, Secondary (science, math, social justice, planning, etc.), Primary
Raising the status of our profession by building strength through unity and equity
WE CAN UNITE! Public education continues to be under attack and our union risks being distracted and divided. Let’s rally around a common vision for what matters to all members. Together we can achieve what seemed impossible for the past 20 years. We need to focus on professional pay, professional workload, and professional autonomy that addresses equity for all our members and our students.
In the midst of negotiations, we are collectively facing education underfunding and a recruitment and retention crisis, while BCPSEA pits “have” and “have-not” locals against each other. As part of your leadership team, my focus will be on the common ground that builds unity despite distractions. Transparency in decision-making, equity at all levels of the union, and greater member engagement will expand and deepen our power as a union as well as cultivate the respect and unity needed.
Teaching in the vulnerable secondary and elementary classrooms of my community has shaped how I understand the pressures teachers and students face. I began volunteering on my local executive after I saw improvements for our students when local and provincial unions fought for our working conditions. Through various roles within our local office, I developed the necessary skills to listen deeply and respond to my colleagues and community. I’ve represented member concerns at the school, district, and provincial level with integrity to the best of my abilities. Through grievances, arbitrations, and bargaining with difficult district administrations, I have achieved results for local members.
If elected, I will help build bridges to overcome the risks of distraction and division and raise the status of our profession by achieving gains in pay, workload, and autonomy. We need to focus on uniting around a common vision rooted in safeguarding public education and a respect for our diverse locals and members.
Website: stevequerengesser.ca
FOR MEMBER-AT-LARGE
Listen with your heart
DINI ZE, TS’AKE ZE, SKIY ZE. Hadih, So’endzin. I would like to acknowledge I am a visitor on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh, Səl ’ ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh, and xwməθkwəy ’ əm Nations.
Hadih’,dzin honsu, Syi ts’ake ze C’tan s’tsitnÏ. Sne ts’ake ze Wila’at s’tsitnï. Sbeb sdzineeun dini ze’ Wah tah ghet s’tsitnï. N’iwh Dini ze’ Na’Moks s’tsitnï. Tsayu aba tsa ka deezit. Likhsilyu sinilhya ne.
FOR MEMBER-AT- LARGE ABORIGINAL
MARJORIE DUMONT
Vancouver Elementary
EXPERIENCE
Provincial
Member-at-Large, Health & Safety Advisory Committee Liaison, AbEd PSA President, SURT presenter/trainer, PSID staff, Teachers’ Council
Local Executive, WLC/B Chair, Grievance Committee, Staff Rep
Teaching
Elementary, Secondary, Resource, UBC Education Faculty Instructor
It is with great privilege and honour that I have experienced and learned so much from the different roles I have had within the public education system. Building relationships with students, parents, colleagues, and provincial stakeholders has increased my pride in our Federation, in our profession, and in our commitment to an equitable, sustainable, and just future for all members. I understand the complexities of our organization and the need to acknowledge and support the unique local cultures and the diversity of our membership as a whole. We do this by listening to members, continuing to strengthen our structures and processes, and focusing always on member-driven, grassroots organizing. This means respecting and honouring local collective agreements while continuing to fight for improvements at the provincial level.
As the designated Aboriginal EC member, I have worked to identify, raise, and teach about the colonizing practices that have influenced our workplaces. Implementing Truth and Reconciliation must be ongoing work that centres the fundamental rights of Aboriginal peoples. The BCTF can continue to lead the way, and I am committed to working with all members to support this goal.
We determine our working conditions through collective bargaining, but we also have the opportunity to build our organization around the values of equity, representation, and unity. I look forward to working with you to co-create our future BCTF.
FOR MEMBER-AT-LARGE
Indigenous worldview in public education
As a war-canoe puller and a teacher, I believe in the collective. I have the discipline and tacit knowledge to understand the strength and success of a canoe team lies within the team’s ability to work together. It does not matter if I sit in the #1 seat or the last, being synchronized and dedicated to others is key.
Since 2002 I have been in public education through a variety of roles: as a non-enrolling teacher, classroom teacher, PSA member-at-large, BCTF facilitator and curriculum writer, and MTU Aboriginal Chair. I have been in classrooms across grades, across subjects, and across the province.
Some of my key observations:
• The erosion of class size and composition has affected safe working conditions for teachers.
• Teacher-librarians, art and music teachers are some of the first jobs to disappear, leaving the classroom teacher to pick-up however they can.
ABORIGINAL
PEGGY JANICKI
Mission
EXPERIENCE
Provincial Summer Conferences, BCTF Aboriginal facilitator, curriculum, AEA PSA, FNEA PSA
Local Executive (Aboriginal Chair)
Teaching
18 yrs: Indigenous Mentor Teacher, Elementary, Helping Teacher
Education BEd, 2001; MEd UBC Indigenous Knowledges/ Indigenous Pedagogies, 2014
• Teachers are overwhelmed.
The BC curriculum has a large portion centred on Indigenous worldviews and knowledge. But if teachers do not have the time and energy, how are they to consider decolonizing their practices? Or even see the value in doing so? How can they define race and racism, systemic and blatant? Or discern between appropriation versus appreciation?
The Federation’s amazing approaches that I have seen and felt are in social justice, working with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People, Truth and Reconciliation Commission, Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women and Girls, Aboriginal Education PSA, and Aboriginal Education Advisory Committee. I believe the BCTF is serious in their obligations to create safe spaces, not just for Indigenous people, but for everyone.
When asked, “Where are your calluses?” by Dr. Graham Smith, my answer is, “I’ve got lots,” and I am willing to continue my training as the Aboriginal Member-at-Large on the Executive.
Website: peggyjanicki.ca
BENULA BUNJUN
Sooke EXPERIENCE
Provincial
SURT facilitator (2012–present), French Advisory Committee (2009–2014), Parent group presenter English/French workshops (2009–2013)
STA, Local 62 LR (2019–present)
GVTA, Local 61 President (2013–2016), Acting President (2011–2012), First Vice-President (Sept 2010–2013), LR (Sept 2007–2010)
Strength from our diversity
I AM A WOMAN OF COLOUR and a Francophone. My experience includes president of a large local, local representative, vice-president, and SURT facilitator. My gratitude for the historical professional advances secured by our union, the experience gained from my union roles, and my 30 plus years as a proud, active member of the BCTF, has instilled in me a strong commitment to stand firm in the defence of our collective agreement.
I am proud of our union’s vision and mission. I am proud of the work I assisted with in advocating for our Francophone colleagues to have interpreters at our meetings, guaranteeing their full participation in union business. Equity and fairness are important, and we all win when a diversity of voices unite to advance the vision of the BCTF.
Like you, I am concerned with the current state of public education and where it is headed. During our last job action, I had the honour of working with teachers, supporting and encouraging their creative ideas to put pressure on the province as we stood in solidarity and in defence of our rights and our profession. When I was local president in Victoria, Rob Fleming, then Education Critic, stood beside me at a rally on the steps of the Legislature, where he promised many things to the thousands of teachers gathered there, were his party to become government. Today his government’s nonchalant approach to education is in fact lowering the standards of this crucial public service.
I have the skills, experience, and vision necessary to understand, vocalize, and advocate for teachers’ concerns and priorities. Indeed, it would be my honour to listen to you and respond through advocacy on your behalf. Together, we will continue to make public education the issue.
Ensemble on est capable!
FOR MEMBER-AT-LARGE
FOR MEMBER-AT-LARGE
Strength in unity
BORN AND RAISED in south Vancouver by immigrants from Punjab, I got through K–12 having had only a single teacher of colour. As a racialized teacher myself now, I am proud to see so much more diversity in our profession. My lived experience as a 14-year teacher and my lifelong relationship building bridges in communities affords me an opportunity to bring a distinct perspective to the EC table. The role of racialized Member-at-Large is one of special responsibility, one I would honour by representing not only racialized members, but all 45,000 members of the Federation with enthusiasm, transparency, and integrity.
FOR MEMBER-AT-LARGE RACIALIZED
KIRAN SIDHU
Richmond
EXPERIENCE
Provincial
Adult Ed Advisory Committee,
AOEC PSA Treasurer, AGM, Racism Issue Sessions, BCTF facilitator
Local
Staff Rep, Chair SJ Committee, Pro-D Chair
Lived
First-generation Punjabi WOC actively trying to do the necessary work of decolonizing
It’s crucial that we remain united while focusing on the specific needs of our locals as well as the common needs of teachers at the bargaining table and beyond. Improved working conditions for teachers mean improved learning conditions for our students. We can achieve this by continuing to push for equitable workload provisions across the province and addressing the recruitment and retention crisis. Much of our strength comes from the diversity of our locals and the solidarity of the Federation; we must lean into this unity to bolster success at the bargaining table.
I’m proud of our union. We stand up for our members, we stand up for students, we work across borders in solidarity, and we lift ourselves and others up. Our commitment to ensuring equity in our union serves the BCTF today and the BCTF of the future, as member engagement and participation continues to be our greatest asset.
I am proud to be one with you; I will also be proud to stand in solidarity with you as your racialized Member-at-Large. I aspire to bring my experience and determination to the role while continuing to advocate for teachers and learners.
FOR MEMBER-AT-LARGE
Public education: Integral to our society
OUR SOLIDARITY creates a strong voice for public education by advocating for education investments, better salaries, member rights, working conditions, increasing resources, meeting diverse needs, and growing equity and inclusivity.
As a diverse union of professionals, we have strong shared values and common interests to overcome injustice. Leadership with diverse views is stronger. I embrace diverse voices and extensively examine issues from numerous perspectives. Leadership decisions need to hold in tension the multiple interests of all member groups, teaching roles, and large, medium, small, rural, urban, and remote locals.
In bargaining, we believe in raising the floor. Similarly, I see equity initiatives as lifting people up by actively removing barriers of access, rights, and opportunities. I am committed to advocating for an inclusive union that is safe, open, and accessible to all members.
KEVIN AMBOE
Surrey
EXPERIENCE
International Technology Presenter
Provincial WLC/BAC, SURT facilitator, CUEBC President, RA Agenda Committee and Chairperson, AGM Chairperson, 19-year AGM Delegate
Local
Local Representative, Convention Co-ordinator, Bargaining Co-Chair, Peer Mediator
Teaching
Elementary, Secondary, Consultant, Integration Support
I bring to the Member-at-Large role:
Core values
- Every person is created equal with equal intrinsic value
- Equal treatment doesn’t equate to equality or equity
- Injustice to any member or group impacts the whole
- We build inclusion on common interests, removing barriers and creating opportunities
- Transparency
- I’m committed to action.
Leadership skills
- Mentoring
- Mediating
- Presenting
- Organizing
- Bargaining
- Proficient navigating high capacity expectations.
Interpersonal skills
- Listening
- Reflective/divergent thinking
- Communicating effectively
- Valuing diversity.
Financial skills
- Juggling numbers, options, and scenarios
- Analyzing costs, benefits, and perspectives.
I will dedicate myself to the Memberat-Large role to grow the BCTF as an increasingly responsive, transparent, member-driven organization that values every member, committee, local, and sublocal.
I challenge you to examine each candidate personally. I invite you to make the difficult choice between many great candidates and elect Kevin Amboe as Member-at-Large for your BCTF Executive Committee.
Website: BCTFAGM2020.Amboe.ca
FOR MEMBER-AT-LARGE
Activism through collaborative strategies for member engagement
AS A RELATIVELY NEW TEACHER, I am very proud to put my name forward as a candidate for Member-at-Large. I see the role of Member-atLarge as key to ensuring the perspectives of all our members reach the table, and I am eager to make myself available to the outreach and committee work that will allow me to serve in this capacity.
For me, being an active participant on my local executive committee for the past four years has been about two things: advocacy and service. When the members of my local elected me, they were putting their trust in me. They expect me to defend their rights, support them when they are struggling, and uphold our collective agreement. These are expectations I take very seriously, and they will shape the way I contribute to the work of the BCTF Executive Committee.
JESSICA HILL
Cariboo Chilcotin
EXPERIENCE
Provincial
TIE-BC Publication Chair, Women in Negotiations
Local Communication Chair, Local Representative, Vice-President, Bargaining Committee, LSA President
Teaching
Learning Support, Alternate, Grades 8 and 9 Humanities
Education
BA, BEd, MEd (Special Education)
I am a thoughtful person by nature, and I engage in active listening with my students and the members I serve. Being an informed participant of any decision-making body requires both of these qualities, especially in a member-driven union such as ours. I used these qualities as a member of our local bargaining team, and I continue to rely on them as we build a working relationship with our new district leadership.
In service to my local, I have been an active participant in conversations happening around recruitment and retention. My advocacy for collaborative strategies has allowed myself and other members to attend job fairs alongside senior management and has assured that we have a voice in the conversations happening in our district around this critical matter. With the teacher shortage becoming a wide-spread crisis, I know I can be a valuable advocate for this issue at the provincial level as well.
Facebook: facebook.com/JessicaHillMAL Twitter: twitter.com/JessicaHillMAL
FOR MEMBER-AT-LARGE
Analysis, advocacy, action
ANALYSIS: What are the implications in the short-term and, more importantly, in the long-term for our members? How is this related to other issues we are seeing in schools, in the union, and in society? These are some of the important questions I begin with when I look at an issue. As an experienced teacher, a union committee chair, and a local officer, I have worked deeply with collective agreement implementation and enforcement and in member support for medical and professional matters. I bring a thoughtful, critical eye to the work of representing members and am able to consider complex situations and determine principled paths forward.
MEMBER-AT-LARGE
ALLISON JAMBOR
Vancouver Elementary
EXPERIENCE
Provincial
AGM Delegate, BCFED
Local
VESTA Vice-President, Chair/Co-Chair Professional Issues, President/VP Vancouver TeacherLibrarians’ Association, Vancouver District Labour Council
Teaching Teacher-Librarian, Resource, Kindergarten, Grades 1–3, Prep, job-shares and full-time
Education BA, BEd, TL Diploma
Advocacy: I am well-researched, well-prepared, and well-versed in relevant material in order to ensure that I represent members’ diverse voices. As a staff representative, an elected local officer, and representative to district standing committees, I address critical matters facing teachers today such as workload, education funding, union renewal, and equity.
Action: Teachers show up for equity. We participate in climate strikes, work toward decolonizing our classrooms, and develop spaces that are inclusive of all learners. We hold the line on our professional autonomy and at the bargaining table. We work together to make a difference. I understand our union structures and how to bring forth issues. I problemsolve even in challenging situations, acting and demanding action of others in places of power. I’m a teacher who fights injustice in the world as well as in the classroom, with the understanding that our schools and our union are part of a larger global movement for worker and social justice.
I ask for your vote for Member-at-Large on the BCTF Executive Committee. I will bring analysis, advocacy, and action to the role of representing BC teachers.
Twitter: @AllisonJambor Website: allisonjambor.ca
FOR MEMBER-AT-LARGE
Thoughtful and responsive leadership
IN 2016, I joined the Executive Committee ready to learn and excited to serve. Four years on, I still bring that curious and reflective nature to our discussions and deliberations, and I’ve also built knowledge and experience along the way.
Teachers have to be strategic and responsive, no matter who’s in government. Whether it’s bargaining, contract defence, elections, or education policy, we have seen in the past year that we can’t depend on the courts or political parties to fully defend public education. Elections and court cases are only part of the strategy. We must also sustain our values-based organizing and mobilizing.
MEMBER-AT-LARGE
ROBIN TOSCZAK
Greater Victoria EXPERIENCE
Provincial
Executive (2016–present), Teacher magazine & TTOC advisory committees, workshop facilitator (2013–2016)
Local
Executive (2012–present, currently Second VP), Victoria Labour Council Executive (2013–present), Contract (2014–present) and Bargaining (2018–present) committees
Teaching
Elementary (2010–present, currently Reading Recovery)
As second vice-president and health and safety officer in Victoria, I am active in a broad range of work, but I have been especially focused on empowering school H&S committees and advocating for an effective district violence prevention program. I was an active member of our local bargaining team in the 2019 round, where we won a number of improvements without concessions. As a member of the Victoria Labour Council Executive Committee, I have consistently brought teachers’ experiences to our union siblings and connected teachers in solidarity with other workers.
Our union thrives when teachers feel empowered, included, and connected. The BCTF is engaged right now in the work of addressing systemic discrimination and barriers to engagement for members who are marginalized because of racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, and colonization. We are working to dismantle those barriers. This requires us to have brave conversations and embrace change.
Folks I work with will tell you I can do that. On issues ranging from bargaining to inclusion to member engagement and long-term financial planning, I have appreciated and learned from your candid conversations, thoughtful questions, and constructive feedback. Thank you for contributing to our collective wisdom and strength!
Facebook: facebook.com/rbntzk
Twitter: twitter.com/rbntzk
FOR MEMBER-AT-LARGE
MEMBER-AT-LARGE
SUSAN TRABANT
Prince George
EXPERIENCE
Provincial
EC Member-at-Large, HSAC member, BCTF facilitator, Rep Assemblies, AGMs, Northern SOGI Rep
Local
School Union Rep, PGDTA Executive
Member-at-Large/Treasurer, District SOGI Rep
Teaching 15 years
Education BA, MA
Staying focused, going the distance
WE WILL HAVE a collective agreement! Every round of bargaining eventually ends with a contract, and this one will too. With every opportunity, I will continue to vocalize what BC teachers need and show how important student learning conditions are. Bargaining will remain the focus for us as an Executive, until this collective agreement is in place. Tensions are high! As a Member-at-Large, I will continue to fight for salary; a wage increase is the obvious start to fixing the recruitment and retention issues we face. Teachers deserve to be paid a fair wage for the work we do.
Teachers voices have been heard! The prevalence model has been delayed while more consultation with partners happens. We will continue to report out about the impact a prevalence model will have on our students and classrooms. Public education is the foundation to the future of our students and province. This government must fully fund public education, so every classroom is supported, certified teachers are in place, and the mental health of our educators is restored. All BC students deserve equitable chances to contribute to our society in their future.
As a full-time teacher, executive member in Prince George, and Member-at-Large for the BCTF, I think and act on equity and inclusion, climate change, and the infusion of Indigenous and SOGI information in everything I do. Working on reconciliation and decolonizing every system I can is near and dear to my heart. I have proven myself to promote a culture of consent and share the values of the BCTF. When volunteering myself for opportunities offered by the BCTF, I am careful to step back and make space for those who fight to raise their voice. I commit to continue listening and working with you. Please support my candidacy.
FOR MEMBER-AT-LARGE
TREPANIER
Prince George
EXPERIENCE
Provincial
BCTF Member-at-Large (1 year), WLC/BAC, Local Representative, Parent Presentation facilitator, AGMs, Summer Conferences
Local (PGDTA)
Second Vice-President, Bargaining Committee/Team, Staff Representative Education
MEd in Educational Practice, BA, PDP (SFU)
Proud to represent members
THIS YEAR MARKS my 26th year as a proud member of the BCTF. I currently teach French Immersion Kindergarten in Prince George, where I am also the second vice-president of the PGDTA. In addition, I am currently in my first term as a Member-at-Large on the BCTF Executive Committee.
As a BCTF Member-at-Large, I have sought out and listened to members’ concerns and ideas and consistently brought these forward at the provincial level. I have a strong voice and use it in my representation of members. In my first term I have learned an enormous amount, and it has been my privilege to speak on behalf of you. I look forward to the opportunity to continue this work and to support all of our members in making a difference. I am deeply proud to be part of a democratic body like the BCTF and aim to continue to ensure that all members’ voices are heard, responded to, and valued. We have seen positive results of equity being addressed in our provincial Executive, and I want to continue to support this movement provincially as well as locally.
Despite the many challenges we are facing, I remain excited for the future of the BCTF and the teaching profession. The work of supporting, engaging, and connecting new members to the work of the union remains of paramount importance, and I am proud to bring my local organizational experience to this endeavor.
I am passionate about teaching and union work, but I also believe in having a good work/life balance. I enjoy acting in community theatre productions, singing, travelling, and spending time with family and friends.
The best part of this work is the people I meet, and I look forward to speaking with many of you during the AGM.
Facebook: facebook.com/KatherineTrepanierBCTF
Twitter: @kathtrepanier
FOR MEMBER-AT-LARGE
Practical, principled, balanced
THIRTEEN MONTHS INTO BARGAINING, we are at a crossroads. After 16 years of underfunding, we’d hoped to fix gaps in the system, but this round has been challenging. Members are fatigued, yet power has seldom relinquished anything without a demand. As a member of the EC, I would be ready to make the difficult decisions necessary for the Bargaining Team to secure a fair deal.
Today, I am the president of the province’s largest local, but I was once disengaged. Over time, I channeled my doubts into local and provincial activism, but I have not forgotten what it felt like to be disconnected. Meaningful engagement with our members is ultimately our most important work.
MEMBER-AT-LARGE
MATT WESTPHAL
Surrey
EXPERIENCE
Provincial Income Security; Finance; Delegate to BCFED, CTF, Tri-National; Trustee, G.A. Fergusson Award
Local
President, First VP, Second VP, LR, chief bargaining spokesperson
Teaching
Secondary Social Studies, FSL, Aboriginal Support
Education BA, MA, LLB, BEd
The EC represents the diverse concerns of the entire province in providing leadership and direction to the BCTF. As a former lawyer, I am trained to analyze issues from all sides. I have a track record of working effectively with people of different perspectives and collaborating to find creative solutions.
As a local president, I understand the challenges locals face in representing members and being the face of the union. If elected, I would work to ensure that locals get the support they need to do this vital work.
The BCTF has taken steps to ensure its structures are more inclusive. With my leadership, Surrey has created a committee for members of colour and a designated position on our local executive for a person of colour. There is still more to be done, and it is my honour to carry on this work.
Given my experience as a local president of almost 6,000 members, over ten years of legal training and practice, a collaborative style of leadership, and a pragmatic approach to difficult decision-making, my voice would be an asset on the BCTF EC.
Facebook: facebook.com/Matt-Westphal-for-BCTF-Member-atLarge-198810173823055
Twitter: @vauvent
Website: mattwestphal.ca
FOR MEMBER-AT-LARGE
It takes a community
TEACHERS WORK HARD to create optimum learning conditions for the unique needs of each of our students. With diverse student populations, an underfunded system, and growing societal expectations, teachers increasingly are feeling discouraged and burned out. Teaching is hard work and the demands are great. But with essential supports in place teachers, the teaching profession, and the public education system can all thrive.
MEMBER-AT-LARGE KIP WOOD
Nanaimo
EXPERIENCE
Provincial
BCTF Executive Committee (6 years), AGM Delegate (25 years), Finance Committee (2 years), Teacher magazine contributor (12 years)
Local
Local President (3 years), BCFED (10 years), Bargaining Committee (20 years)
Education BSc, PDP, MA
As a member of the BCTF Executive Committee, and a classroom teacher, I know firsthand the unique work teachers are doing around the province, and I’m motivated to do what I can to improve our working conditions. That said, teachers themselves are a diverse population and work in communities with different needs, services, and cultures. Just like teachers, the BCTF reaches beyond the classroom to work with members and others for the greater good. The working conditions experienced by teachers in BC, or anywhere, depend on a variety of supports. This means much more than negotiating provisions.
The Federation’s focus on the needs of communities is what makes me proud of the BCTF. We don’t shy away from opposing the LNG pipeline project, calling out homophobic and transphobic trustees in Chilliwack, or supporting student participation in climate strikes. The role of the teacher is not simply to convey knowledge; rather, it is about instilling a belief that the world can be a better place, and we all have a small role in the struggle to make it better.
Whether it’s the Teacher Inquiry Program, Climate Justice, Aboriginal Education, or Women in Negotiations, the BCTF is making a difference for teachers, students, and the communities where we live.
My experience, passion, and critical thinking equip me well for this role. I’m proud to support and facilitate the work of our Federation. I’d be honoured to be re-elected!
Facebook: facebook.com/kipwoodforvp2
Twitter: @KipBWood
Website: kipwood.com
S t atement of Principles on E quit y, Di ver sit y, and Inclusion
The BCTF is a democratic union that recognizes the importance of encouraging and supporting involvement by all members, while recognizing that some members have historically been marginalized. For the Federation to be at its best, all members must see themselves reflected in its goals, structures, and practices. The BCTF will strive to identify and eliminate barriers to participation through programs, procedures, by-laws, and policies supported by specified resources and education.
The BCTF supports equit y, diversit y, and inclusion within the union, the workplace, and in broader society and acknowledges that:
1. Discrimination and harassment must not be ignored and must be challenged and rectified.
2. Not all discrimination is deliberate or visible. Inadvertent, hidden, and systemic discrimination must be identified and addressed.
3. The marginalization of certain groups must be specifically recognized. These groups include, but are not necessarily limited to women; racialized workers; Indigenous people; people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, questioning, or two-spirit; people with disabilities; and those whose participation is impeded because of economic circumstances or family status.
4. Equal opportunity to participate in the Federation does not mean treating all members the same. Within a democratic framework, promoting the engagement of members of equity-seeking groups is a valid and necessary approach to reaching equal outcomes.
5. Federation programs and policies designed to eliminate barriers must not only do so, they must be widely seen to do so.
2017 AGM
Commitment to Solidarity
That the following Commitment to Solidarity guide the conduct of members participating in BCTF meetings:
1. We believe that union solidarity is based on the principle that all members are equal and deserve mutual respect.
2. We understand that an inclusive union is a stronger union, and commit to embracing both unity and diversity.
3. We commit to ensuring that members of equity-seeking groups are welcomed, fully included, and treated equitably and respectfully at all Federation meetings and events.
4. We believe that all members have the right to feel safe and be treated with dignity at BCTF meetings.
5. We commit to conducting all Federation meetings in an environment free from harassment, discrimination, and intolerance.
6. We undertake to give our full attention to members, presenters, and invited guests who are addressing our meetings.
7. We value vigorous discussion, welcome active participation, and encourage members to share perspectives and debate positions because through such debate we develop strong policies and practices.
8. We appreciate that our union has a long and spirited tradition standing up for firmly held views, and that we do this internally with each other and externally as a collective.
9. We respect our democratic processes and understand that, once our decisions are made, the collective position prevails.
Déclaration d’engagement pour la solidarité
Que la Déclaration d’engagement pour la solidarité suivante, guide la conduite des membres participant aux réunions de la FECB:
1. Nous croyons que la solidarité syndicale est fondée sur le principe que tous les membres sont égaux et méritent le respect mutuel.
2. Nous comprenons qu’un syndicat inclusif est un syndicat plus fort, et nous nous engageons à accepter à la fois l’unité et la diversité.
3. Nous nous engageons à veiller à ce que les membres des groupes qui recherchent l’équité soient accueillis, de manière totalement inclusive, et traités équitablement et respectueusement à toutes les réunions et événements de la Fédération.
4. Nous croyons que tous les membres ont le droit de se sentir en sécurité et d’être traités avec dignité aux réunions de la FECB.
5. Nous nous engageons à mener toutes les réunions de la Fédération dans un environnement libre de tout harcèlement, discrimination et intolérance.
6. Nous nous engageons à être attentifs aux membres, aux présentateurs, aux invités qui assistent à nos réunions.
7. Nous apprécions les discussions dynamiques, la participation active et encourageons les membres à partager leurs perspectives et à débattre de leurs positions, car grâce à ce débat, nous élaborons des politiques et des pratiques solides.
8. Nous sommes fiers que notre syndicat ait pour longue et vigoureuse tradition de défendre fermement ses vues en interne les uns avec les autres ou à l’extérieur en tant que collectif.
9. Nous respectons nos processus démocratiques et comprenons qu’une fois que nos décisions sont prises, la position collective l’emporte.
