Members of the BC Teachers’ Federation have voted to ratify the agreement-in-committee reached on Tuesday, September 16, 2014, with the government’s bargaining agent, the BC Public School Employers’ Association.

In a province-wide vote conducted on September 18, a total of 31,741 teachers cast ballots and 27,275 voted yes, 86%.

“We all know this deal isn’t perfect, but it provides some gains for teachers, protects our Charter Rights, and increases support for students,” said BCTF President Jim Iker.

“This was a very tough round of negotiations and a difficult time for many of us on strike, but we successfully pushed back against concession demands and we have emerged as a stronger and more engaged union. Through the hard work of our teachers, British Columbians now fully understand the real issues facing our public education system.”

In announcing the vote results, Iker thanked teachers for their resilience and commitment.

“BC teachers, you have inspired me day in and day out for the last 18 months,” said Iker. “Your strength on the picket lines and passion for your profession helped us make gains this week that were not possible at any point over the last three months. Thank you for standing strong and doing what you believe is right.

“Next week, teachers will be back in classrooms and we will be working to ensure the new gains in this agreement begin to flow as soon as possible. That means more classroom and specialist teachers in schools to help students, our teachers teaching on call getting fair pay for a day’s work, and a salary boost for all members.”

Iker concluded by once again thanking the thousands of parents, students, concerned citizens, and other union members who supported teachers through the negotiations and job action.

Salt Spring School Detail: Gulf Islands Secondary School

We are pleased to announce that school is back in session! We thank you for your patience during this time and acknowledge and appreciate the challenges that everyone faced. At Gulf Islands Secondary School, we are thrilled to have the school community back and to begin an exciting year together.

Please note that we will be open today (Friday, September, 19th) from 9:00 to 3:00 for student package pick up and new registrations. Reminder that student fees are $30.

Our opening day will be Monday, September 22. As per our normal opening day schedule, this will be a half day with early dismissal for buses at 12:50 and water taxis at 1:00.

Tuesday, September 23 will be a full day with dismissal time at 4:15.

We will have more information for our students and parents regarding any changes in exam dates, reporting timelines and parent teacher interviews once we meet with our staff on Monday.