The Structure of Education British Columbia Public Schools

Important MOE Responsibilities Educational Policy Curriculum Development (IRPs) Aboriginal Enhancement Agreements Assessment (FSAs, Exams) Data Management Language Programs Finances Renovation/Construction of schools

Trustees A school trustee is a member of a governing board, responsible for ensuring that the public voice of the community is heard in public education. There are five, seven or nine trustees on each board. Trustees Are elected locally to a school board for three-year terms. Come from all professions and backgrounds: lawyers, doctors, oyster farmers, hairdressers, parole officers, etc.

Trustees The provincial government, through the Ministry of Education, sets the broad goals, policies and curriculum requirements for the BC school system. Trustees implement those programs and policies to meet these goals based on local priorities. Trustees hire and, in some cases, fire Superintendents.

School Districts

BCTF Founding Purpose (1916) Promote the cause of education in British Columbia Raise the status of the teaching profession in British Columbia Promote the welfare of the teachers of British Columbia

Services to Members Bargaining (negotiation and contract enforcement) Pro-D, reps to Ministry, leadership training, support for instruction Legal Services

Services to Members (2) Internal Mediation Service Judicial Council Salary Indemnity Plan Pension Lesson Aids

BC College of Teachers Social Credit government introduced ‘Teaching Profession Act (1987) created Canada’s first college of teachers. This was an attempt to ‘separate the professional concerns of teachers from their economic concerns.’ Laura Bickerton from the BC College of Teachers will speak to you on Wednesday March 12.

The main functions of the BCCT Review and approve Teacher Education Programs for Certification Purposes Establish Certification Requirements Assess Qualifications and Suitability Issue Teaching Certificates and Membership Suspend or Cancel Certificates for Cause

Teacher Qualifying Service Is operated jointly by the BCTF and the BCSTA (BC School Trustees Association). Evaluates all B.C. teachers to determine salary categorization. Looks at academic and professional preparation and years of teaching experience. Usually assigns category 5 to UBC Teacher Education graduates.