Thread by @bctf

When the #bcpoli government decided to expand #bced in-class instruction this spring, we went to work to ensure strong and very effective health and safety measures would be in place. We appreciate the hard work and collaboration, but there are still areas that need more work.

We know many teachers and parents are anxious and concerned. That's understandable.

We're pleased that the safety standards are provincial and that districts can't rush to open before June 1st. It's good to see that their plans need to be approved and completed. #bced #bcpoli

It's also good that there is recognition that wearing a mask is a personal choice and that it’s important to treat people wearing masks with respect. However, more work is needed on the availability of PPE for teachers who want or need it. #bced #bcpoli

We will be working through school-based joint occupational health and safety committees to ensure there is a supply of PPE to those who need or want it. #bced #bcpoli

Workload is another area of continued work. The #bcpoli government has committed to work collaboratively with the BCTF & the other #bced partners to ensure teacher workload is respected and not increased. That work is still ongoing.

Models around the challenges with workload will be developed provincially and #bced districts will work together with local unions to ensure the needs of students and teachers are met. #bcpoli

We also know that employers like school districts have a duty to accommodate vulnerable workers like people with underlying health issues and those in high risk categories. Our locals will be working to ensure those folks are protected. #bced #bcpoli

The BCTF will be providing more detailed information later today to our members. We will also be hosting two telephone town halls for all members next week so you can hear directly from @TeriMooring. That information will be in the email members receive later today. #bced