TO WIN: VISION, STRATEGY,
AND ACTION
President’s Message
Greetings colleagues, and welcome to the Summer Leadership Conference!
Thank you all for taking time out of your summer holidays to join us here in Vancouver. BCTF members work hard the whole school year, and our holidays are precious, so I want to acknowledge just how thankful the Federation is for you being here this week.
The theme of this year’s conference Leading to Win: Vision, Strategy, and Action is about facing challenges with intention, planning meaningful union engagement, and acting with purpose. The conference this year aims to set you up as union leaders in your locals with all that you need to connect with your members, inspire them to be involved in the union, and act in solidarity with one another. We hope you’ll find the sessions we’ve planned helpful in serving these goals.
This year, we’re particularly focused on the unique opportunities that arise around provincial elections and want to ensure the membership feels supported in whatever form of election engagement they’re interested in pursuing. As we know, this government needs to be pushed when it comes to action on public education. We have not seen enough meaningful support of the K–12 system, nor have we seen action on some of the most important issues to our members, as articulated by our membership survey results. Students, families, and educators have waited for political leaders to make BC public schools a priority, which brings us to the upcoming provincial election. An election is an opportunity. Now is the time to connect with your MLA to insist that students, schools, and teachers are seen and heard by this government, and that the issues faced by our members are front and centre for politicians. Of course, a robust election strategy that gets our members to the polls on election day has the potential to be deeply impactful in this election, and we hope you’ll use the opportunity to make public education a real election issue.
It’s also important for us to recognize the important solidarity we have with other working people across the province. As we’ll hear this week, first from CUPE BC President Karen Ranalletta and then from BC Federation of Labour President Sussanne Skidmore, the relationships between and amongst provincial unions and local associations are deeply important. Why? Because they model the kind of world we want to build together: one where all our work is valued, we are all paid respectable wages for the work we do, and we are collectively invested in the health and well-being of one another. That is the work we’re all doing in our unions every day.
The leadership opportunities provided here will hopefully help to identify a vision for the work ahead, find a clear path, and support you with the tools you need to take meaningful action.
We have so much to learn from one another. Together, with all our hopes and dreams for a better world, please know that the Federation is with you. We support your work, and we want to continue to learn from you, to grow, and to respond in ways that help our membership feel proud of their union.
It’s been my honour to serve you all as President of the BCTF, and I thank you for the opportunities I’ve had over the past three years. With a fondness and deep respect for you all, thank you and all the best this Summer Leadership Conference.
Clint Johnston President
President First Vice-President Second Vice-President
Member-at-Large
Member-at-Large (Designated position –Aboriginal)
Member-at-Large Member-at-Large
Member-at-Large (Designated position member of colour)
Member-at-Large (Designated position 2SLGBTQIA+)
Member-at-Large Member-at-Large
Member-at-Large
Member-at-Large
Clint Johnston Chilliwack
Carole Gordon Central Okanagan
Robin Tosczak Greater Victoria
Jelana Bighorn Vancouver Secondary
Brenda Celesta Kamloops-Thompson
Mariah Franzmann Prince George
Rick Kumar Surrey
Hallan Mtatiro Surrey
Chris Perrier-Evely Nanaimo
Marilyn Ricketts-Lindsay Surrey
Trevana Spilchen Delta
Katherine Trepanier Prince George
Winona Waldron Greater Victoria
Conduct at BCTF Meetings
The Commitment to Solidarity statement outlined below is to guide the conduct of all members at all BCTF meetings.
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 de l’égalité des membres et de leur droit au 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 nous assurer que les membres des groupes en quête d’équité se fassent accueillir, inclure et traiter de manière équitable et respectueuse lors de toutes les réunions et de tous les événements de la Fédération.
4. Nous croyons que l’ensemble des membres a le droit de se sentir en sécurité et de se faire traiter avec dignité lors des réunions de la FECB.
5. Nous nous engageons à mener toutes les réunions de la Fédération dans un environnement libre de toutes formes de harcèlement, de discrimination et d’intolérance.
6. Nous nous engageons à accorder toute notre attention aux membres, aux personnes qui présentent et aux personnes invitées à nos réunions.
7. Nous valorisons les discussions dynamiques et la participation active. Nous encourageons les membres à partager leurs perspectives et à débattre de leurs positions, car grâce à ces débats, nous élaborons des politiques et des pratiques solides.
8. Nous apprécions que notre syndicat ait pour longue et solide tradition de défendre fermement ses opinions à l’interne ou à l’externe en tant qu’organisation.
9. Nous respectons nos processus démocratiques et comprenons qu’une fois que nos décisions sont prises, la position collective l’emporte. Revised 2016 Fall RA Revisée AR automne 2016
Safety Allies at Summer Leadership Conference
What does this mean?
The BCTF is committed to establishing and supporting the expectation that all Federation meetings, socials, and events be free from unwelcome or unwanted comments, gestures, and physical contact. We ask all participants to keep this in mind as you unwind with colleagues and enjoy the opportunities to socialize together. It takes all of us to actively uphold a culture of consent.
In acting on its commitment, the Federation has arranged for volunteer allies to help advance a culture of consent at the socials held during the Summer Leadership Conference.
Safety allies will be introduced at the opening plenary and will be wearing a button to be easily identifiable during social events. They will be happy to provide assistance and support, should any participants experience unwelcome or unwanted comments, gestures, or physical contact. Their role is not to supervise participants or “police” the parties; rather, it is to be effective allies available to ensure that all members can fully enjoy these events and count on their union to maintain a culture of consent.
Thank you very much to these members and to all participants at the Summer Leadership Conference for your contributions towards guaranteeing we can all count on safe, respectful, and inclusive spaces to undertake our work and socialize together.
General Information
The purpose of the BCTF Summer Leadership Conference is to develop local leadership while focusing on BCTF priorities The 2024–25 leadership priorities as established by the 2024 AGM are:
• Provide opportunities so a diversity of members including early career teachers can connect and engage in advocacy, professional development, and collective action.
• Fight for a bargaining structure that represents locals and advances members’ needs.
• Directly pressure government to solve the teacher shortage.
• Fight for working and learning conditions in which teachers’ workload issues and students’ social, emotional, and academic needs can be met.
• Work within the Federation and collaborate with education partners, other unions, and the broader community to advance justice, truth and reconciliation, anti-racism, and anti-oppression in the face of environmental, social, and political forces.
• Advancing the role of public education and the union as a catalyst for change in the climate emergency.
Registration desk
The registration desk is located in the Fireplace Lounge of the Walter Gage Residence and will be open at the following times:
Monday, August 19 5:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.
Tuesday, August 20 7:30 a.m.–9:00 p.m.
Wednesday, August 21 7:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Thursday, August 22 7:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Friday, August 23 7:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Community spaces for delegates from equitydeserving groups
The BCTF is creating more opportunities for members to meet to discuss issues in common at the Summer Leadership Conference. The BCTF has designated spaces, in the Nest, to connect and meet for delegates who identify with specific equity-deserving groups. Please note that these are inclusive community spaces and all members who identify are welcome.
Members who identify as Aboriginal Room 2515
Members who identify as LGBTQ2S+ Room 2508
Members who identify as a person of colour Room 2528
Members who identify as women Room 2506
Expense voucher
Social Activities
Summer Leadership Conference Banquet
Thursday, August 22, 2024
The bar opens at 6:00 p.m. (cash only)
Open to all delegates and family members. Tickets for family members are available at the registration desk, for the following costs:
For 10 and under Free Ages 11–17
Adults
$19
$38
New Presidents’ dinner (by invitation only)
Social Justice Film Night: The Magnitude of All Things
Wednesday, August 21, 2024
International Solidarity L unch (registration required)
Date: Wednesday, August 21, 2024
Time: 12:45–2:15 p.m.
Location: Mary Murrin 3, Walter Gage Residences
All expense vouchers are to be submitted using the online form. More info can be found on EventMobi, under Expense Vouchers
Internet
Complimentary "ubcvisitor" WI-FI network.
BCTF SUMMER LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE 2024
University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver Tuesday, August 20, 2024, to Friday, August 23, 2024
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Registration for Delegates New to the Role
Monday, August 19, 2024
5:00–9:00 p.m.
DAY 1
Registration desk open
Discrete Training Day for Delegates New to the Role
Tuesday, August 20, 2024
7:30 a.m.
Registration desk open
7:30–8:45 a.m. Breakfast
9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Walter Gage Residences Fireplace Lounge
Walter Gage Residences Fireplace Lounge
Walter Gage Residences Fireplace Lounge
New to the role discrete training for the following delegates: Buchanan bldg /Gage Towers
• New Presidents and New Released Local Officers Buchanan B213
• New French Education Local Chairs Buchanan D201
• New Health and Safety Representatives Buchanan D204
• New Local Contacts for Aboriginal Education Fort Camp Lounge (Gage)
• New Professional Development Chairs Buchanan D312
• New Social Justice Contacts Buchanan D219
• New Teachers Teaching on Call Contacts/Representatives Buchanan D301
• New WLC/Bargaining Chairs Buchanan B215
10:30–11:00 a.m. Coffee/Tea service available at Buchanan A, lower lobby by Stir It Up Café
12:00–2:00 p.m. Lunch (on your own)
2:00–4:00 p.m. Discrete training for new delegates (continued) Buchanan bldg./Gage Towers
5:00–9:00 p.m. Conference check-in / Registration for all delegates Walter Gage Residences Fireplace Lounge
Opening Session
7:00–8:30 p.m. Introductions Christine Stewart, Director, Professional and Social Issues Division (PSID)
Musqueam welcome Morgan Guerin, Musqueam Nation
Opening welcome Clint Johnston, BCTF President
Opening plenary Karen Ranalletta, President, CUPE BC
Jack Poole Hall, Robert H. Lee Alumni Center
DAY 2
Closing remarks Henry Lee, Assistant Director, Leadership and Member Training, PSID
Elective Sessions Day
Wednesday, August 21, 2024
7:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
7:30–8:45 a.m.
Registration desk open Breakfast
9:00–10:30 a.m. Elective Session I
10:30–11:00 a.m. Wellness break
Walter Gage Residences Fireplace Lounge
Isabel MacInnes Room
Buchanan bldg./Ponderosa
Coffee/Tea service available at Buchanan A, lower lobby by Stir It Up Café
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Elective Session II Buchanan bldg
12:30–2:30 p.m. Lunch (on your own)
12:45–2:15 p.m. International Solidarity Lunch (registration required)
2:30–4:00 p.m. Elective Session III
Walter Gage Residences Mary Murrin 3
Buchanan bldg./Ponderosa
6:30–9:00 p.m. New Presidents’ dinner (by invitation only) Sage Bistro, UBC
7:00–9:00 p.m. Social Justice film night: The Magnitude of All Things Performance Theatre, UBC Nest
DAY 3
Discrete Training Day
Thursday, August 22, 2024
7:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
7:30–8:45 a.m.
9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Registration desk open
Breakfast
Discrete training for the following:
Walter Gage Residences –Fireplace Lounge
Isabel MacInnes Room
Buchanan bldg./Gage Towers
• Local Presidents and Released Local Officers Buchanan A102
• Adult Education Advisory Committee Buchanan D314
• French Education Local Chairs Buchanan D201
• Health and Safety Representatives Buchanan B208
• Local Contacts for Aboriginal Education Fort Camp Lounge (Gage)
• Political Action Contacts Buchanan D204
• Professional Development Chairs/ Provincial Specialist Association Council Buchanan D218 Buchanan D301
• Social Justice Contacts Buchanan D217
• Teachers Teaching on Call Contacts/ Representatives Buchanan D219
• WLC/Bargaining Chairs Buchanan B215
9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. Additional delegates discrete session BCTF building
10:30–11:00 a.m. Coffee/Tea service available at Buchanan A, lower lobby by Stir It Up Café
12:00–2:00 p.m. Lunch (on your own)
2:00–4:00 p.m. Discrete training (continued)
Buchanan bldg./Gage Towers
6:30–11:00 p.m. Summer Leadership Conference Banquet The Great Hall, UBC Nest
DAY 4
Closing Session
Friday, August 23, 2024
7:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
7:30–9:00 a.m.
Registration desk open Breakfast
Walter Gage Residences Fireplace Lounge Isabel MacInnes Room
9:30–10:45 a.m. Introductions Christine Stewart, Director, PSID Jack Poole Hall, Robert H. Lee Alumni Center
10:45–11:00 a.m. Closing plenary Sussanne Skidmore, President, BCFed
Closing remarks Clint Johnston, BCTF President
11:00 a.m. Adjournment
Buchanan
1866 Main Mall, Vancouver BC V6T 1Z1
New to the Role Discrete Day Agenda
New Local Presidents and Released Officers
Tuesday, August 20, 2024
Buchanan B213
9:00 a.m. Welcome
• Acknowledgment of traditional territory
• Greeting from Carole Gordon, BCTF First Vice-President
• Introductions of Field Service Division (FSD) staff
9:30 a.m. Effective communication in your new role!
Lori Jones and Julia MacRae, Assistant Directors, FSD
10:25 a.m. Your burning questions… generated
10:30 a.m. Break
10:45 a.m. Your burning questions ANSWERED!
11:00 a.m. Carousel 1
12:00 p.m. Lunch (on your own)
2:00 p.m. Carousel 2
3:00 p.m. Break
3:15 p.m. Carousel 3
4:15 p.m. New to role in 2024? We are in this together! Activity and group picture
4:30 p.m. Adjournment
Carousel topics:
• Investigations and Discipline Derek DeGear and Starleigh Grass, Assistant Directors, FSD
• Collective Agreements and Grievances Deb Morran and Joanne Sutherland, Assistant Directors, FSD
• Running a Local Office Suzanne Hall and George Serra, Assistant Directors, FSD
Conférence d’été sur le leadership 2024
Présidence locale de l’éducation en français (PLEF/FELC) et/ou
Représentation du français comme langue de travail et/ou langue première (FLTP/FFWL)
Mardi, 20 août 2024
Ordre du Jour
Buchanan D201
Nouveaux et nouvelles PLEF/FELC et/ou FLPT/FFWL
Membres: Astérie Ndikumana
Daniella Melanson (membre sortante)
EJ Rush (secrétariat)
Jocelyne Lepine
Kayleigh MacMillan
Nicholas Renaud
Patrice Oscienny (co-présidence)
Sonja Gowda (co-présidence)
Responsable: Carmen Woo
Membre du Comité exécutif: Katherine Trepanier
Points de discussion
1. Ouverture et reconnaissance des territoires autochtones
2. Thème 1: Représentation locale de l'éducation en français
3. Thème 2: Rôle et fonction des membres PLEF/FELC et/ou FLPT/FFWL (survol)
4. Thème 3: Les fonds fédéraux
5. Thème 4 : Questions brulantes
9:00 a.m.
New to the Role Discrete Day Agenda
New Health and Safety Representatives
Tuesday, August 20, 2024
Buchanan D204
Creating an Effective Health and Safety Culture in Your Workplace
10:30 a.m. Break
10:45 a.m.
Creating an Effective Health and Safety Culture in Your Workplace cont’d
12:00 p.m. Lunch (on your own)
2:00 p.m.
Occupational Health and Safety Training for New Committee Members and Worker Reps
3:00 p.m. Break
3:15 p.m.
Occupational Health and Safety Training for New Committee Members and Worker Reps, cont’d
4:00 p.m Adjournment
Michelle Chapman (HSAC) Cindy Hewitt (HSAC)
Michelle Chapman (HSAC) Cindy Hewitt (HSAC)
Darren Companion (HSAC)
Darren Companion (HSAC)
New to the Role Discrete Day Agenda New Local Contacts for Aboriginal Education
Tuesday, August 20, 2024
Gage Towers Fort Camp Lounge
9:00 a.m. Acknowledgment of traditional territory Su Chang
Commitment to Solidarity MaryDawn MacWatt
Introductions: Aboriginal Education Advisory Committee and new Local Contacts for Aboriginal Education AEAC Members
History and commitment to role Chris Stewart
10:45 a.m. Break
11:00 a.m. Getting to Know the BCTF and Role of Local Contacts
Claire Shannon-Akiwenzie, Brian Coleman
Denise Hendry, Coreen Loe, Su Chang, Keane Tait
Jenna Hopper, Jessica Bell, MaryDawn MacWatt
12:00 p.m. Lunch (on your own)
1:30 p.m. Aboriginal Education workshops summary and update Carol, Su Coreen, Brian, Denise
• Infusing Aboriginal Content and Perspectives-Grad Requirement
• 215 Le Estcwicwéy Honouring the Children
• Their Voices Will Guide Us
• Decolonizing Our Spaces
• Deconstructing Myths
• Canadian Geographic Indigenous Map
3:00 p.m. REDress and Orange Shirt Project Elder Diane Stewart AEAC
4:00 p.m. Closing circle
New to the Role Discrete Day Agenda New Professional Development (PD) Chairs
Tuesday, August 20, 2024
Buchanan D312
9:00 a.m. Welcome and introductions
• Acknowledgment of traditional territory
• Commitment to Solidarity
• Code of Ethics
• Icebreaker
• Parking lot
9:45 a.m. BCTF Tech talk Mike Barnes (Information Technology Department)
10:00 a.m. You're the PD chair, now what?
• History of PD supporting PD and the changing culture of PD
• In-service vs. Training vs. Professional Development
• Local PD collective agreement; policies and procedures
• How to Organize a Conference
10:30 a.m. Break
11:00 a.m. Role and Function of the PD chair overview PD Lens
12:00 p.m. Lunch (on your own)
2:00 p.m. Carousel (15 minutes each)
• Potential role of PD chair / Professional issues and standards
• Teacher Inquiry Program
• SURT vs. PSID workshops
• BCTF PD Policy and Procedures (Members' Guide)
3:00 p.m. Break
3:15 p.m. Open Space (Q&A)
4:00 p.m. Adjournment
New to the Role Discrete Day Agenda New Social Justice Contacts
Tuesday, August 20, 2024
Buchanan D219
9:00 a.m. Welcome and introductions
• Acknowledgment of traditional territory
• Commitment to Solidarity
• Icebreaker
10:00 a.m. Role of the Social Justice local contact
12:00 p.m. Lunch (on your own)
2:00 p.m. Social Justice and the BCTF
3:00 p.m. Solidarity connections
4:00 p.m Adjournment
New to the Role Discrete Day Agenda Teachers Teaching on Call
(TTOC) Contacts/Representatives
Tuesday, August 20, 2024
Buchanan D301
9:00 am Preliminaries
• Welcome and introductions
• Aboriginal acknowledgment
• Introduction of TTOCAC members
• Health and safety
• Agenda
• Icebreaker
• Parking lot
10:00 am Collective agreement
What’s in it? (provide digital copies)
• Advocating for TTOCs
• Provincial vs local language
• How to find info in the collective agreement
10:30 am Break
11:00 am
Collective agreement continued
• Exploring TTOC-related language within the collective agreement
• Game/exercise
o Finding a passage in the collective agreement for an answer
Scavenger hunt activity
12:00 pm Lunch (on your own)
2:00 pm Nuts and bolts of TTOC chair/reps
• The Power of Leadership (online, EventMobi)
• Power of Leadership online 2024–25
• Contact calendar
• Structure of BCTF
• Role of TTOC Rep and monthly checklist
o link to BCTF directory
• BCTF acronyms
3:00 pm Break
3:15 pm
• Important policies and procedures
• Standards for educators in BC
• Code of Ethics game
3:50 pm Parking lot
Announcements opening plenary time and location
4:00 p.m. Adjournment
New to the Role Discrete Day Agenda
New WLC Representatives/Bargaining Chairs
Tuesday, August 20, 2024 Buchanan B215
9:00 a.m. Welcome
• Acknowledgment of traditional territory
• Commitment to Solidarity
• Introductions
10:15 a.m. Greetings from Carole Gordon, BCTF First Vice-President
10:30 a.m. Session 1: Bargaining 101
12:00 p.m. Lunch (on your own)
2:00 p.m. Session 2: Know Your Collective Agreement
3:00 p.m. Session 3: BCTF website bargaining resources
4:00 p.m. Adjournment
Program for additional attendees to the BCTF Summer Leadership Conference
Guiding principles of this group’s participation in the BCTF Summer Leadership Conference:
• cultivating members’ union literacy
• investing BCTF resources in members’ first five years
• enhancing personal connections and opportunities for members
• negotiating union membership and identity
• creating platforms and places where BIPOC teachers’ voices and perspectives are foregrounded.
Tuesday, August 20, 2024
4:00 p.m. Orientation Room 2311 in the Nest at UBC
5:00 p.m. Dinner members can arrange to have dinner together on their own
7:00 p.m. Opening conference session Jack Poole Hall, Robert H. Lee Alumni Centre (see page 9)
Wednesday, August 21, 2024
Members will join the elective sessions they registered for.
Thursday, August 22, 2024, Discrete day
Field trip to the BCTF hop on the No. 84 bus as a group.
9:15 a.m. Getting to know each other and situating ourselves in the collective
10:00 a.m. The how and why of Robert's Rules building capacity to make an impact at meetings.
10:30 a.m. Break
11:00 a.m. Robert's Rules simulation and debrief
12:00 p.m. Lunch (on your own)
1:30 p.m. Collective action in unions
2:00 p.m. Facilitated discussion
• What are we doing here? Finding our place and power in the union.
3:30–4:00 p.m. Closing of discrete day
• Return via bus # 84 to UBC to attend the evening banquet (see page 10).
Friday, August 23, 2024
Members will join the closing conference session Jack Poole Hall, Robert H. Lee Alumni Centre.
Discrete Day Agenda
Local Presidents
Thursday, August 22, 2024
Buchanan A102
9:00 am Welcome and introductions
Lee-Anne Clarke, Field Service Division (FSD) Director
• Acknowledgement of traditional territory
• health and safety check
• introductions
9:15 a.m. Legal update
Gretchen Brown, General Counsel and Stefanie Quelch, Associate General Counsel
10:30 a.m. Break
10:45 a.m. Greetings from Clint Johnston, BCTF President
11:00 a.m. Update to LRB certificate
Wesley Lui and Shanti Reda, Legal Counsel, Deb Morran and Renée Willock, Assistant Directors, FSD
11:40 a.m. Your Outlook email
Mike Barnes, Senior Systems Administrator, Information Technology
12:00 p.m. Lunch (on your own)
2:00 p.m. Lightning talks
• Grants Michael Infante, Senior Accountant
• SURTs Henry Lee, Assistant Director, PSID and Julia MacRae, Assistant Director, FSD
• Employment Equity Deb Morran, Assistant Director, FSD
• SIP Chris Harris, Income Security Division Director
• Benefits Deb Morran, Assistant Director, FSD
3:00 p.m. Local bargaining
Deb Morran and Renée Willock, Assistant Directors, FSD
3:30 p.m. Break
3:45 p.m. Leadership development
• small groups discussion
• union leadership development resources for you
4:30 p.m. Adjournment
Discrete Day Agenda Adult Educators
Thursday, August 22, 2024
Buchanan D314
9:00 a.m. Welcome and introductions
• Acknowledgment of traditional territory
• Commitment to Solidarity
• Introduction of AdEAC members and BCTF staff
9:15 a.m. Contextualizing
• What are you and what do you teach?
• What does Adult Education look like in your district?
• What does your role as Adult Education rep entail?
10:15 a.m. Greetings from Robin Tosczak, BCTF Second Vice-President
10:30 a.m. Break
10:45 a.m.
• Stewardship Report overview
• Report out from AdEAC on the year
• Invitation for participating (media stories, adult education social media group)
• Bargaining update
• Materials share
12:00 p.m. Lunch
1:30 p.m. Brainstorming session:
• What is Adult Education?
• How to define an adult educator?
• Distance Learning vs. Continuing Education
• Data gathering
2:45 p.m. Break
3:00 p.m. Brainstorming session:
• How to raise the profile of adult education/adult educators?
• What do you want/need as an adult educator?
4:00 p.m. Adjournment
Présidence locale de l’éducation en français (PLEF/FELC) et/ou
Représentation du français comme langue de travail et/ou langue première (FLTP/FFWL)
Ordre du Jour
Jeudi, 22 août 2024
Buchanan D201
Membres du Comité consultatif sur les programmes et services en français:
Astérie Ndikumana
Daniella Melanson (membre sortante)
EJ Rush (secrétariat)
Jocelyne Lepine
Kayleigh MacMillan
Nicholas Renaud
Patrice Oscienny (co-présidence)
Sonja Gowda (co-présidence)
Responsable: Carmen Woo
Membre du Comité exécutif: Katherine Trepanier
Points de discussion
1. Ouverture et reconnaissance des territoires autochtones
2. Thème 1: SURT sur Le rôle et la fonction de la personne élue à la présidence locale de l’éducation en français (PLEF) et des représentants du français langue de travail ou langue première (FLTP)
3. Thème 2: Visite d’un(e) officier(-ière) à temps plein (FTTO)
4. Thème 3: Négociations et questions brulantes
5. Thème 4: Coalition du français
6. Thème 5: Partage de ressources et expériences
7. Thème 6: Réunions de zones
9:00 a.m.
Discrete Day Agenda Health and Safety Representatives
Thursday, August 22, 2024
Buchanan B208
Role and Function of the School Site Health and Safety Rep SURT Preview
10:30 a.m. Break
Greetings from Carole Gordon, BCTF First VicePresident
Michelle Chapman (HSAC) Darren Companion (HSAC)
10:45 a.m.
Incident Investigations and Reports SURT Preview
12:00 p.m. Lunch (on your own)
2:00 p.m. Violence in the Workplace SURT Preview
3:00 p.m. Break
3:15 p.m. Refusal of Unsafe Work SURT Preview
4:00 p.m Adjournment
Darren Companion (HSAC) Cindy Hewitt (HSAC)
Michelle Chapman (HSAC) Cindy Hewitt (HSAC)
Larry Dureski (HSAC)
Discrete Day Agenda
Local Contacts for Aboriginal Education
Thursday, August 22, 2024
Gage Towers Fort Camp Lounge
9:00 a.m. Acknowledgment of traditional territory Su Chang
Commitment to Solidarity MaryDawn MacWatt
Meet and greet with the AEAC in regions:
• Vancouver Island MaryDawn
• Metro West Carol, Jessica
• Fraser Valley Brian, Cheryl
• North Coast Denise, Keane
• North Central Coreen
• Kootenay Jenna
• Okanagan Su
9:45 a.m. Greetings Carole Gordon
10:00 a.m. Break
10:15 a.m. Indigenous Sovereignty and Justice in K-7 BC Curriculum ‘ Jo-ann Archibald, Jeannie Kerr, Shakti Baker
12:00 p.m. Lunch (on your own)
1:30 p.m. Canadian Geographic - Paths to Reconciliation
Charlene Bearhead, Brian, Denise Special Interlocutor for Missing Children and Unmarked Graves and Burial Sites associated with Indian Residential Schools Report
Charlene Bearhead
2:30 p.m. The Truth in Truth and Reconciliation James Darin Corbiere
3:00 p.m. AEA PSA - Conference Denise, Cheryl, Carol, Brian Membership and newsletter
3:15 p.m. Resistance, Excellence and Resilience Penny Carnrite, Carol Arnold REDress School Initiatives Christine McDonald, Penny Carnrite
3:45 p.m. Indigenous Mentorship Program Grant Chris Stewart
4:00 p.m.
4:30 p.m.
National Film Board updates Ross Johnstone
Closing circle
Discrete Day Agenda
Political Action Contacts
Thursday, August 22, 2024
Buchanan D204
9:00 a.m. What do we know about this provincial election? Why should we be involved?
How to “talk politics” with your colleagues
12:00 p.m. Lunch (on your own)
2:00 p.m. Third party advertising rules with BCTF Legal
Making a local election plan that works
4:00 p.m. Adjournment
Discrete
Day Agenda
Professional Development (PD) Chairs and Provincial Specialist Associations Council (PSAC)
Thursday, August 22, 2024 Buchanan D218
9:00 a.m. Welcome and introductions
• Acknowledgment of traditional territory
• Burning questions/parking lot
9:15 a.m. Greetings from Clint Johnston, BCTF President
9:30 a.m. Assistant Director in PSID for PSAs Jennie Slack Speed-networking with PSAs
10:00 a.m. Role of the PD Chair
• How to chair a meeting
• Creating and using a QR Code
• BCTF website and booking workshops
10:30 a.m. Break
11:00 a.m. Professional Autonomy Lens Defending Self-Directed PD
11:30 a.m. Provincial TIP project (2023–24) sharing
12:00 p.m. Lunch (on your own)
PSAC members relocate to Buchanan D301
2:00 p.m. Information, Research, and International Solidarity Andrée Gacoin
3:00 p.m. Break
3:15 p.m. Zone and Mix
• PD chair discussions
3:45 p.m. Report out
• Where do we go from here?
• Reflection moving forward at zones
• Q&A
4:00 p.m Adjournment
Discrete Day Agenda
Provincial Specialist Associations Council (PSAC)
Thursday, August 22, 2024
9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. with PD Chairs Buchanan D218
9:00 a.m. Welcome and introductions
• Acknowledgment of traditional territory
• Burning questions/parking lot
9:15 a.m. Greetings from Clint Johnston, BCTF President
9:30 a.m. Assistant Director in PSID for PSAs Jennie Slack Speed-networking with PSAs
10:00 a.m. Role of the PD Chair
• How to chair a meeting
• Creating and using a QR Code
• BCTF website and booking workshops
10:30 a.m. Break
11:00 a.m. Professional Autonomy Lens Defending Self-Directed PD
11:30 a.m. Provincial TIP project (2023–24) sharing
12:00 p.m. Lunch (on your own) (relocate to Buchanan D301)
12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Buchanan D301
2:00 p.m. PSA-only afternoon, led by John Munro/Tammy Le
4:00 p.m Adjournment
6:30 p.m. Summer Leadership Conference Banquet (UBC Great Hall)
Discrete Day Agenda Social Justice Contacts
Thursday, August 22, 2024
Buchanan D217
9:00 a.m. Welcome and introductions
• Acknowledgment of traditional territory
• Commitment to Solidarity
• Icebreaker
9:15 a.m. FTTO greetings
9:45 a.m. Action Network Part 1
10:30 a.m. Break
11:00 a.m. Strategize, Organize, Mobilize!
12:00 p.m. Lunch (on your own)
2:00 p.m. Coordinating Collective Action Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights
3:40 p.m. Action Network Part 2
4:00 p.m. Adjournment
Discrete Day Agenda
Teachers Teaching on Call (TTOC) Contacts/Representatives
Thursday, August 22, 2024
Buchanan D219
9:00 am Welcome and introductions
• Acknowledgment of traditional territory
• Commitment to Solidarity
• Health and safety
• Introductions of TTOCAC members
• Participants check-in
• Agenda
• Parking lot
9:30 am FTTO greetings
9:45 am BCTF website (Deep Dive)
• login
• expense vouchers
• workshops
• resources
• opportunities
• TTOC Appreciation and Outreach grant
10:30 am Break
11:00 am Bargaining
• Local Collective Agreement provisions for TTOCs
Group/open discussions
• Think Pair Share
• Call out procedures in your locals; what’s working and what’s not
• Professional etiquette with contract teachers Autonomy/discretion in the classroom
• Role of TTOC contact
11:55 am Parking lot
12:00 pm Lunch (on your own)
2:00 pm Health and safety
Nuts and bolts
• Explore all current and relevant nuances
• ESA Leaves move to discrete day?
• Extended health benefits updates and explain dental plans
3:00 pm Break
3:15 pm Nuts and bolts, continued
Meetings
• agenda
• minutes
• advocacy
3:47 pm
3:55 pm
• School Union Rep list
• TTOC Appreciation week first full week in May
• parking lot
• announcements (check out time tomorrow)
o supper tonight (time and location)
o closing plenary
4:00 pm Adjournment
Discrete Day Agenda
WLC Representatives/Bargaining Chairs
Thursday, August 22, 2024
Buchanan B215
9:00 a.m. Welcome
• Acknowledgment of traditional territory
• Commitment to Solidarity
• Greetings from Robin Tosczak, BCTF Second Vice-President
• Introductions
9:45 a.m. Local Bargaining
10:15 a.m. Break
10:30 a.m. Session 1: Addressing the Teacher Shortage in Bargaining
11:00 a.m. Session 2: Negotiation Styles and Strategies
12:00 p.m. Lunch (on your own)
2:00 p.m. Session 3: Reframing Success
3:00 p.m. Session 4: BCTF Resources
4:00 p.m. Adjournment
Elective Session I 9:00–10:30 a.m.
AI in the Classroom: Exploring Ethics, Critical Thinking, and Creativity
Presented by: Jessica Dmytruk, Lena Palermo, and Ilda Turcotte, BCTF members Room: Buchanan B213
This elective is an introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI). We will discuss the concepts of AI and digital literacy in relation to our professional responsibilities. Participants will be guided through an exploration of AI tools which can be used in the classroom for both students and teachers. Participants will walk away with “ready to implement” activities/templates. A personal digital device is recommended. Format: lecture: 50% l interactive: 50%
Conference Co-ordination Crash Course this elective occupies TWO consecutive sessions, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Presented by: Kristina Preston, BCTF member Room: Buchanan D317
Come cultivate confidence with this crash course on conference co-ordination! Join Kristina Preston, President and Conference Chair of myPITA, the largest of the 31 BCTF Provincial Specialist Associations, for a thorough outline of the timelines and considerations needed to plan and execute successful and rewarding professional development opportunities. Teachers are the masters of improvisation, but no one is born with the knowledge of organizing larger events. This session breaks down the process into logical, discrete steps with timelines and checklists to help you maintain BC's reputation as a leader in teacher-led professional development.
Developing a Local Bargaining Communications Plan. Plus, How to Use Mailchimp!
Presented by: Rich Overgaard, BCTF staff Room: Buchanan D316
Learn the basics of a communications plan that can help locals engage and inform members during local bargaining or other campaigns. We will also explore tips, tricks, and best practices
around using Mailchimp and creating good content that will grab members’ attention.
Format: lecture: 50% l interactive: 50%
Harassment: Rules and Tools
Presented by: Vivian Wan, Julia MacRae, and Renée Willock, BCTF staff Room: Buchanan B215
What constitutes harassment? How can the union provide fair representation in member-tomember complaints? Participants will learn about the collective agreement processes for resolving harassment concerns as well as alternatives such as mediation and informal resolutions.
Information
Management for Local Offices
Presented by: David Stange, BCTF staff Room: Buchanan D204
What to do with all these paper files? My email is overwhelming! Which electronic files can I delete, and which must be kept? Participants will be provided with knowledge and tools to organize records in their local offices. Topics covered will include managing historical paper records, organizing electronic records (Word, PDF, etc.), managing email and reducing mailbox sizes, and discussing the digitization of paper records. Also, regulatory rules that affect the retention of records will be discussed, with a focus on privacy (PIPA) requirements.
Format: lecture: 80% l interactive: 20%
Investigations and Discipline
Presented by: Arshia Sattari, Wesley Lui, Lori Jones, and Joanne Sutherland, BCTF staff Room: Buchanan B208
This session will help you prepare for your role in assisting members in discipline investigations These members need clarity about the processes they must participate in, and union advocates need to think strategically throughout. As well as helping members achieve the best outcome for themselves and their careers, we will consider what it means to meet the needs of members
regarding equity and inclusion. You will leave with tools and strategies!
Media 101
Presented by: Amy Smart, BCTF staff Room: Buchanan D201
Talking to journalists can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Media relations can be a great tool for raising awareness about the issues that matter most to your members and school community. In this session, you will learn how to identify a story, connect with media, hone your message, and stick to it so that it is heard as well as tips for dealing with tough questions and topics to avoid. Format: lecture: 50% l interactive: 50%
Supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ Staff and Students
Presented by: Christina Billingham and Bria Jupe, BCTF members
Room: Buchanan D219
This session is a 90-minute sampler of the regular three-hour PSI workshop. In supporting 2SLGBTIA+ staff and students, participants will have the opportunity to develop their knowledge of the experiences of queer staff and students and their unique needs and challenges within the context of regressive political movements and ideologies organizing against SOGI education. We will touch on tangible steps to take to ensure queer folks in your local and in your schools feel safe, seen, and supported.
Elective Session II
Build Community, Defeat Divisiveness, and Attain Action for Social Justice
Presented by: Tara Ehrcke and Sarah Newton, BCTF members
Room: Buchanan D219
Does it feel like you’re banging your head against a wall when you have good ideas or important improvements to make your school community more sustainable? Learn how to use effective strategies to get action. Strategies of psychological persuasion work well in implementing environmental justice policies and
Format: lecture: 50% l interactive: 30% l handson: 20%
Indigenous People Atlas and Giant Floor Map
Presented by: Denise Hendry and Brian Coleman, BCTF members; and Charlene Bearhead, guest speaker Room: Ponderosa Ballroom
This map shows the locations of Indigenous communities, residential schools, reserves, and more. Rather than showing political borders, Canada is broken up into Indigenous language groups. BCTF now has three of the Giant Floor Maps travelling the province and can be booked along with a new BCTF workshop. This session provides an experiential session with the map.
Format: hands-on: 100%
What is the Teacher Qualification Service (TQS)?
Presented by: Camy Ng, BCTF member; and Carmen Woo, BCTF staff Room: Buchanan D312
This session develops union leaders’ knowledge of the Teacher Qualification Service (TQS). It will highlight the TQS’s governance structures, frequently asked questions about categories and the application and appeals processes. It will also briefly touch on the TQS in relation to the regulatory structures of the BC Teachers’ Council, the Teacher Regulation Branch, and the Director of Certification.
Format: lecture: 70% l interactive: 30%
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
actions. Instead of causing divisiveness or shame, build community and a sense of working for the greater good. Slight changes to rationales and language can have impressive results!
Format: lecture: 50% l interactive: 50%
Education Policy Update
Presented by: Grahame Rainey, BCTF staff Room: Buchanan B215
This session will provide updates on current Ministry of Education and Child Care education policy initiatives and related Federation advocacy.
Format: lecture: 70% l interactive: 30%
Le rôle et la fonction de la personne élue à la présidence locale de l’éducation en français (PLEF) et des représentant·e·s du français langue de travail ou langue première (FLTP)
Presented by: Amy McCallum, BCTF member, and Carmen Woo, BCTF staff Room: Buchanan D322
This session offers School Union Representative Training (SURT) training in support of French Education Local Chairs and French as First or Working Language School Representatives (FFWL) called “The Role and Function of the FFWL School Representative.”
Legislation Overview Key Statutes to Note
Presented by: Gretchen Brown, George Serra, and Deb Morran, BCTF staff Room: Buchanan B213
Most grievances involve enforcement of the collective agreement, but various pieces of legislation also provide protections for employees and the union. This session will review the most commonly utilized provisions related to teachers’ employment, including the Employment Standards Act, the Human Rights Code, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, privacy legislation, and more. It will also address how to frame grievance letters when relying on these provisions.
Media 101
Presented by: Amy Smart, BCTF staff Room: Buchanan D201
Talking to journalists can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Media relations can be a great tool for raising awareness about the issues that matter most to your members and school community. In this session, you will learn how to identify a story, connect with media, hone your message, and stick to it so that it is heard as well as tips for dealing with tough questions and topics to avoid.
Format: lecture: 50% l interactive: 50%
National Film Board
Presented by: Ross Johnstone, guest speaker Room: Buchanan B208
In this session, attendees will explore how to navigate the National Film Board site and share clips of the latest educational films available.
Format: lecture: 50% l interactive: 50%
Navigating
the BCTF
Presented by: Litia Fleming and Amber Mitchell, BCTF staff Room: Buchanan D312
This session is aimed at providing a better understanding of the BCTF governance structures and will discuss the tools and resources available to help members navigate their roles within the BCTF.
Format: lecture: 80% l interactive: 20%
Our Hopes and Dreams for Public Education in BC
Presented by: Anna Chudnovsky, BCTF staff; Steve Cardwell and David Chudnovsky, guest speakers
Room: Buchanan D316
We know there are significant challenges facing schools today overcrowding, teacher shortage, and inadequate support for meaningful inclusion, to name just a few. In the face of these issues, it can be difficult to find the opportunity to share our aspirations for our school system and student learning. Yet, it’s an important discussion to have. This interactive session will provide participants with the opportunity to learn more about the Institute for Public Education BC (IPE/BC) community research project, discuss their aspirations for teachers and students, and share their hopes and dreams for our public school system.
Format: lecture: 10% l interactive: 90%
Teaching in a Time of Climate Grief
Presented by: Irina Kosoric and Kristin Dorey, BCTF members
Room: Buchanan D218
This session is a 90-minute sampler of the regular three-hour PSI workshop. It will allow participants to be some of the first to try this new BCTF workshop, where we explore climate grief and engage with the emotional realities of this time of a climate emergency. There is a focus on reflection, activities that can be used in your
classroom to navigate these topics, and modeling self-regulation.
Format: lecture: 30% l interactive: 30% l handson: 40%
Unionism and International Solidarity: Why it Matters
Presented by: Alexandra Adhikary, Karen Andrews, Rozhin Emadi, and Annie Ohana, BCTF members; Larry Kuehn and Nadia Rovelo Bolívar, guest speakers Room: Buchanan D204
Participants will deepen their understanding of international solidarity within the labour
Elective Session III
Accommodation and Human Rights
Presented by: Gretchen Brown, Arshia Sattari, Lori Jones, and Derek DeGear, BCTF staff Room: Buchanan B208
This session will provide attendees with an introduction to the accommodation process for members. The session will explore the rights and responsibilities of the local, the member, and the employer framed by the Human Rights Code, case law, and the collective agreement. What are the obligations and entitlements? How does privacy factor?
AI in the Classroom: Exploring Ethics, Critical Thinking, and Creativity
Presented by: Jessica Dmytruk, Lena Palermo, and Ilda Turcotte, BCTF members Room: Buchanan B213
This elective is an introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI). We will discuss the concepts of AI and digital literacy in relation to our professional responsibilities. Participants will be guided through an exploration of AI tools which can be used in the classroom for both students and teachers. Participants will walk away with “ready to implement” activities/templates. A personal digital device is recommended.
Format: lecture: 50% l interactive: 50%
movement in this interactive session. Participants will have an opportunity to explore and learn from specific examples of the BCTF’s international partnerships. The session will strengthen member’s capacity to further engage with international solidarity work at a local and provincial level. (Note: Participants can also sign up to join an international solidarity lunch to continue the conversation after the session).
Format: interactive: 100%
2:30–4:00 p.m.
Collective Care
Presented by: Heather Kelley and Litia Flemming, BCTF staff Room: Buchanan D317
Participants will explore collective care as a transformational way to bring folks together and work towards community and individual wellbeing and belonging. We will explore the existing structures that we can leverage for collective care, like bargaining. We will also talk about burnout, the challenges that all teachers face, and how to reframe wellness.
Format: lecture: 40% l interactive: 30% l handson: 30%
How You (and the Local) Can Support Early Career Teachers and Teachers Teaching on Call
Presented by: Runa Bjarnason-Wilson, Dennis Mousseau, and Nicole Jarvis, BCTF members Room: Buchanan B215
In the current climate, there are myriad issues that affect teachers, especially recruitment and retention. In this session, we will explore the demographics of early career teachers and teachers on call. We will discuss what impacts retention and look at ways locals can support early career teachers and teachers teaching on call.
Format: lecture: 50% l interactive: 50%
Navigating WorkSafeBC: What You Need to Know to Support Members During a WorkSafeBC Claim
Presented by: Luke Olver, BCTF staff Room: Buchanan D201
This session will provide key information to attendees on topics such as the filing of WorkSafeBC claims, the claims process, and resolving issues with WorkSafeBC claims.
Format: lecture: 85% l interactive: 15%
Preparing a Grievance: From Filing to Referral
Presented by: Vivian Wan, Wesley Lui, Suzanne Hall, and Joanne Sutherland, BCTF staff Room: Buchanan D316
What is a grievance? What considerations should be taken into account at the various steps of the grievance process? In this session, participants will learn about, and discuss, the process of grievance handling, including writing grievance letters, maintaining a grievance file, and negotiating creative resolutions to alleged violations.
Social Media
Presented by: Matthew Yanko and Kaisha Gretzmacher, BCTF members Room: Buchanan D204
This session is a 90-minute sampler of the regular three-hour PSI workshop designed to examine social media use in a way that educates about professional and ethical use, the landscape of social media sites, and skills for using specific sites as professionals and/or activists.
Format: lecture: 40% l interactive: 30% l handson: 30%
Strategies for Teaching Controversial Issues
Presented by: TBA Room: Buchanan D219
This session is a 90-minute sampler of the regular three-hour PSI workshop. Discussing
controversial issues with students is an important part of social justice, the inquiry process, and building the skills for students to become active, engaged, and critically minded democratic citizens. This workshop provides practical classroom strategies for talking about controversial issues in a respectful manner.
Format: lecture: 15% l interactive: 50% l handson: 35%
Truth in Truth and Reconciliation Board Game
Presented by: Brian Coleman, BCTF member, and James Darin Corbiere, guest speaker Room: Buchanan D218
James Darin Corbiere Is an Anishinaabe educator and creator of the Truth in Truth and Reconciliation Board Game, a brand new, authentic, original Indigenous-made educational resource. The game comes with a guidebook and graphic novel. James will discuss the history, development, and how to use the game in educational settings.
Format: lecture: 25% l interactive: 50% l handson: 25%
Violence in the Workplace
Presented by: Michelle Chapman and Cindy Hewitt, BCTF members Room: Buchanan D322
This session is a 90 - minute sampler of the regular three- hour Health and Safety SURT workshop. Workplace violence is becoming a growing concern in the education sector. Every year an increasing number of workers in schools are victims of threats and violence in the performance of their jobs. This session explores the definition of violence, types of violence, and what is required to assess and plan to eliminate or reduce risks. The session discussions include risk assessments, safety plans, privacy issues, and the right to know, all with a focus on keeping workers safe.
Accommodation and breakfast
1 Walter Gage Residences
Meeting locations
2 Opening and closing sessions Robert H. Lee Alumni Center
3 Discrete and elective sessions Buchanan bldg. / Ponderosa Commons
Social activities
4 Conference banquet UBC Nest
4 Film Night: The Magnitude of All Things UBC Nest
5 New Presidents’ dinner Sage Bistro
Special events 1 International Solidarity lunch Gage Towers
Checklist While Travelling on BCTF Business
When travelling on BCTF business, you will be travelling alone in most situations. The BCTF must take steps to ensure your health and safety. The following checklist is a guideline for you to follow when you are away from home and working alone
Let people know where you are
• Whenever possible, make sure someone personal knows where, and when, you will be travelling.
• Make contact with someone either from home or your destination to say that you have arrived.
• If possible, have someone meet you.
• If you are going out for the evening, make sure someone knows.
Travelling/driving alone
• Ensure you are well rested when travelling.
• Leave yourself plenty of time to travel and prepare for your meeting/session.
• If possible, travel during the daylight hours.
• Ensure you car is well maintained and equipped with proper tires.
• Don’t take chances. If the roads are bad, don’t drive.
• Ensure that you have a cell phone and that the batteries to your cell phone are fully charged. (Remember there are many “dead” zones for cell phones. This is why it is important to let someone know where you are and to check in when you have arrived.) Carry emergency food supplies with you.
• Carry clothing to match the weather in case you are stranded somewhere.
• If travelling on small planes or ferries, be familiar with safety procedures.
• Park in well-lit areas and lock all your doors.
• Avoid using a cell phone while driving (see below).
Cell phone use while driving
• As of January 1, 2010, drivers in BC can no longer use hand-held cell phones and other hand-held portable electronic devices while driving.
• A person may use an electronic device in a hands-free telephone function while driving if the following criteria are met:
o the electronic device, as well as any part or extension of it, is not held or operated by the hand
o the device is voice-activated or requires only one touch to initiate, accept, or end a call
o if the device includes an earpiece, that earpiece can only be worn in one ear and must be placed in the ear prior to driving
o the device is securely fixed to the vehicle or worn securely on the person’s body, and is within easy reach of the driver’s seat
o the device must be installed in a manner that does not obstruct the driver’s view of the front or sides of the motor vehicle or interfere with the safety or operating equipment of the motor vehicle.
When using hands -free technology while driving, keep conversations short. If you are engaged in a long and/or complex conversation, pull over.
Staying in hotels
• Consider asking for a room close to the front desk.
• If you are going out alone, leave contact numbers with the reception desk in the event something happens to you.
• Ask the concierge or desk clerk about safe areas and areas to avoid.
• Become familiar with emergency and evacuation procedures.
• If parked in an underground lot, ask an attendant to escort you to your car.
BCTF Wellness
The health and well-being of our Federation members is of paramount importance. Below is a selection of options available. More information on BCTF wellness resources, eligibility, and access, can be found on our website: bctf.ca/services-guidance/wellness
Employee and Family Assistance Programs (EFAP)
The Employee and Family Assistance Programs (EFAP) are provided at the local level but are not provided directly through the BCTF . For more information, please contact your local union office
Well Teacher Group
The Well Teacher Group provides educators the time and space to work with their colleagues and a trained wellness facilitator to work on their wellness. This new program was developed by Wade Repta, author of the book The Well Teacher
Starling Minds
Starling Minds is a free online mental health and wellness toolkit, designed for teachers, that provides education and training to manage stress and prevent anxiety and depression.
Further supports
The National Indian Residential School Crisis Line provides 24-hour crisis support to former Indian Residential School students and their families toll-free at 1-866-925-4419
Individuals impacted by the issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls are encouraged to contact the MMIWG Crisis Line toll-free at 1-844-413-6649
First Nations, Inuit, and Métis seeking immediate emotional support can contact the Hope for Wellness Help Line toll-free at 1-855-242-3310, or by online chat at hopeforwellness.ca.
The Walter Gage Residences at
UBC
August 20–23, 2024
Delegates are invited to visit the BCTF Advantage Program display in Walter Gage Residences to see the great opportunities for all BCTF members! See all the program has to offer, exclusively, for Advantage members:
• car insurance
• house insurance
• travel insurance
• optional life/critical-incident insurances
• better mortgage rates
• and many retail discounts.