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School District No. 67 (Okanagan Skaha)
BOARD OF EDUCATION
REGULAR MEETING
AGENDA
Monday, April 13, 2015, 6:30 P.M.
SCHOOL BOARD OFFICE
425 Jermyn Avenue
Pages
1.
CALL TO ORDER
We hereby acknowledge that we are on the territory of the Okanagan First
People.
2.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
That the agenda be adopted.
3.
PRESENTATIONS BY SCHOOLS AND/OR STUDENTS
3.1
Code 67 - A Distributed Learning Course
Trevor Knowlton and Todd Manuel will provide an overview of a pilot
distributed learning course that is designed to give students access to the
world of coding. As well, Mr. Knowlton and Mr. Manuel will discuss some
of the larger issues in on-line education today, including Open Source
courses, Virtual Guest opportunities, and some of the incredible
partnerships available to SD67 students that are made possible through
distributed learning.
4.
RECEIVING OF DELEGATIONS AND GUESTS
5.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
That the minutes of the regular meeting held on March 9, 2015 be approved.
6.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
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7.
REPORT FROM CLOSED MEETING
The following items were discussed at the closed meeting held on March 9,
2015:
•
Reviewed correspondence;
•
Received an excluded staffing update regarding the appointments of the
director of instruction - student services; district principal - student services;
and temporary vice principal at KVR Middle School;
•
Received information on student suspensions;
•
Received a staff report for teaching and CUPE staff;
•
Directed staff to investigate the cost of updating the facility study;
•
Received information related to the Okanagan Labour Relations Council.
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
That the Board of Education make public the 2015-16 Budget Guiding
Principles and Objectives.
8.
CORRESPONDENCE
8.1
Correspondence Requiring Action
8.2
Correspondence to the Board of Education
a
2015-03-13 Minister of Education
1
A letter from the Minister of Education acknowledging receipt of
the Board's letter of March 13, 2015 (Attachment)
b
2015-03-13 Minister of Finance
2
A letter from the Minister of Finance acknowledging receipt of the
Board's letter of March 13, 2015 (Attachment)
c
BCSTA Advocacy Update
3
An advocacy update from BCSTA related to the Special
Committee on Local Elections Expense Limits (Attachment)
d
2015-03-19 Community Foundation of South Okanagan |
Similkameen
4
A letter from the Community Foundation of the South Okanagan |
Similkameen advising that the Foundation no longer requires nor
can accommodate a school board liaison on their board
(Attachment)
e
Agenda for BCSTA Thompson Okanagan Branch AGM
The agenda for the BCSTA Thompson Okanagan Branch
meeting to be held on April 17, 2015 at the Hyatt Regency
Vancouver
f
2015-04-07 Summerland Secondary Parent Advisory Committee
A letter from the Summerland Secondary School Parent Advisory
Committee regarding the placement of the final grade 6 late
French immersion class
5
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8.3
Correspondence Copied to the Board of Education
a
2015-02-02 SD78 (Fraser-Cascade) to President BCSTA
A letter to BCSTA President Theresa Rezansoff expressing
concern regarding the short timeline for consultation on the
BCSTA / Ministry of Education Co-governance Relationship
Memorandum of Understanding
b
2015-02-02 SD57 (Prince George) to the Minister of Education
A letter to the Minister of Education requesting the immediate
rescinding of the December 4, 2014 announcement that funding
will no longer be provided to boards of education for tuition-free
upgrading for graduated adults
c
2015-02-15 SD57 (Prince George) to Minister of Education
A letter to the Minister of Education regarding the co-governance
relationship and lack of consultation on the discontinuation of
funds to support tuition-free upgrading for graduated adults
d
2015-03-03 SD71 (Comox Valley) to Ministers of Education and
Finance
A letter to the Ministers of Education and Finance regarding
administrative budget savings and requesting the data or matrix
that the Ministry of Finance and/or Ministry of Education used to
determine that SD71 has the capacity to make an administrative
savings reduction to cover its share of the provincial budget
reductions
e
2015-03-05 SD57 (Prince George) to Premier and Ministers of
Education and Finance
A letter to the Premier and Ministers of Education and Finance
requesting that the recent decision asking boards of education to
cut administration budgets over the next two years be rescinded
f
2015-03-05 SD63 (Saanich) to the Minister of Education
A letter to the Minister of Education listing the shared service
initiatives which are already in place in their district and providing
significant administrative savings
g
2015-03-05 SD72 (Campbell River) Open Letter to Community
An open letter to the community regarding the recent provincial
budget and effect on SD72 schools
h
2015-03-05 SD69 (Qualicum) to Premier and Minister of Finance
A letter to the Premier and Minister of Finance urging
government to reconsider the requirement for boards of
education to reduce administrative budgets in the amount of $54
million over two years from their operating budgets and asking
that any cost savings that are achieved be retained by each
school district to help address student needs and rising fixed
costs
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i
2015-03-06 SD62 (Sooke) to Minister of Education
A letter to the Minister of Education regarding the lack of funding
for adult graduated students taking academic upgrading courses
j
2015-03-06 SD19 (Revelstoke) to Minister of Education
A letter to the Minister of Education regarding the recent
provincial budget announcement and calling on government to
demonstrate a commitment to public education by allocating
funding that reflects increased expenses related to conditions
outside of the board's control
k
2015-03-13 SD23 (Central Okanagan) to Ministers of Education
and Finance
A letter to the Ministers of Education and Finance expressing
disappointment regarding the recent provincial budget
announcement and the Administration Reduction Target
l
2015-03-20 SD73 (Kamloops/Thompson) to Minister of Finance
A letter to the Minister of Finance requesting a lifting of the
excluded and exempt staff management compensation freeze
m
2015-03-23 SD46 (Sunshine Coast) to Minister of Finance
A letter to the Minister of Finance requesting removal of the
requirement from the provincial budget that administrative
savings of $54 million over two years be found in the budgets of
the sixty school districts in the province
n
2015-03-23 SD46 (Sunshine Coast) to Minister of Education
A letter to the Minister of Education regarding the requirement of
administrative savings of $54 million announced in the provincial
budget
o
2015-03-23 Vancouver Island School Trustees' Association to
Premier Clarke
A letter to Premier Clark expressing disappointment in her
characterizing valued employees as 'low hanging fruit'
p
2015-03-23 SD33 (Chilliwack) to Minister of Education
A letter to the Minister of Education requesting that the Ministry
immediately withdraw the compensation freeze and provide the
necessary funding to boards for management and exempt staff
compensation
q
2015-03-25 SD28 (Quesnel) to Ministers of Education and
Finance
A letter to the Ministers of Education and Finance requesting that
the government lift the freeze on exempt staff compensation and
provide adequate funding to cover these costs
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r
2015-03-27 SD40 (New Westminister) to Ministers of Education
and Finance
A letter to the Ministers of Education and Finance requesting that
they withdraw the compensation freeze and allow boards of
eduction across the province to properly compensate excluded
and exempt staff
s
2015-03-31 SD68 to Minister of Education
A letter to the Minister of Education expressing disappointment
with the latest cost savings expected by boards of education for
the 2015-16 school year
t
2015-03-31 SD19 (Revelstoke) to Minister of Education
A letter to the Minister of Education listing shared service
initiatives which are already in place and providing significant
administrative savings in their district
u
2015-04-01 BCSTA to Minister of Education
A letter to the Minister of Education regarding the intent and
operationalization of the Co-governance Relationship
Memorandum of Understanding
v
2015-04-02 BCSTA to Minister of Finance
A letter to the Minister of Finance requesting a meeting with the
Minister of Finance and Minister of Education to discuss the
implications of the recently announced provincial budget on
school districts
w
2015-04-02 SD44 (West Vancouver) to Minister of Finance
A letter to the Minister of Finance requesting government lift the
compensation freeze for excluded staff
8.4
Correspondence on Behalf of the Board of Education
a
2015-03-11 Letter to Summerland Advisory Planning Committee
A letter to the Summerland Advisory Planning Committee
advising the Board of Education will withdraw representation on
the Summerland Advisory Planning Committee, effective April 1,
2015
b
2015-03-12 Letters Regarding Public Budget Meeting
Letters to RDOS, Summerland Chamber of Economic
Development & Tourism, City of Penticton, District of
Summerland, and Penticton & Wine Country chamber of
Commerce advising the public meeting date has been changed
to April 23, 2015, 6:30 p.m., at the IMC Building
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c
2015-03-12 Letters Regarding Public Budget Meeting Date
Change
Letters to CUPE, DPAC, OSPVPA, OSTU, and parent advisory
councils (PAC's) advising that the date of the public budget
meeting has been changed to Thursday, April 23, 2015, 6:30
p.m., at the IMC Building
d
2015-03-12 Letter to MLAs Ashton and Larson
A letter to MLAs Ashton and Larson, copied to Ministers of
Education and Finance, Premier, President of BCSTA, and all
school districts regarding funding shortfalls, required
administrative cuts of $29 million, and the reference to 'lowhanging fruit'
e
2015-03-13 to Haven Hill Care Centre
A letter to Haven Hill Care Centre designating McNicoll Park
Middle School as the school to be used for the relocation of
residents should it become necessary to evacuate their facility
9.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
9.1
Education Committee
Trustee Johnson will report on the education committee meeting held on
April 1 and the education committee visitation to McNicoll Park Middle
School on April 7, 2015.
9.2
a
Behaviour Intervention Service
b
Health Promoting Schools Coordinator Initiative
c
Graduated Adults
Business Committee
Trustee Bidlake will report on the business committee meeting held on
March 31, 2015:
a
Penticton Secondary School Bursary and Scholarship
Foundation
b
BCSTA Request for Input
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
That the Board of Education respond to the BCSTA requesting
there be some form of an online survey as well as presentation
and discussion at the BCSTA AGM related to Bill 11.
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10.
REPORT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS
•
•
•
•
11.
BCSSA Supporting Aboriginal Leaders: Enhancing and Enriching
Leadership Knowledge
•
The purpose of this program is to provide an opportunity and venue for
school and district level aboriginal leaders to explore the challenges
and rewards of becoming a senior leader in K to 12. (Attachment)
Secondary School Apprenticeship Program
•
A photo of a scholarship recipient is attached. (Attachment)
K to 12 Innovation Forum
World Cafe - District Celebration; May 13, tentatively 3:30 p.m.
REPORT OF SECRETARY-TREASURER
•
12.
6
2014-15 One-time Projects
NEW BUSINESS
12.1
Request from Berry & Smith Trucking Ltd.
8
A request has been received from Berry & Smith Trucking Ltd. for a 1%
increase for 2015 that would apply to mileage and hourly rates,
retroactively to January 2015 for mileage rates only. (Attachment)
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
That a 1% increase requested by Berry & Smith Trucking Ltd. be
factored into the 2015-16 annual budget and that Berry & Smith
Trucking Ltd. be informed that the request will not be retroactive to
January 1, 2015.
12.2
Field Trips
The superintendent of schools will review the attached listing of field trip
requests. (Attachment)
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
That the field trip request for April 23 to 26, 2015 for approximately 50
secondary band and choir students to travel to Calgary, Alberta, to
perform at various venues and attend a live performance be given final
approval.
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
That the field trip request for May 13 to 16, 2015 for 49 grade 8 band
students from Skaha Lake Middle School to travel to Edmonton, Alberta,
for a spring band tour be given final approval.
12.3
Penticton Secondary School Bursary and Scholarship Foundation
A request has been received from the Penticton Secondary School
Bursary and Scholarship Foundation for clerical time for the Foundation.
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
That the school district will provide the Penticton Secondary School
Bursary and Scholarship Foundation with 200 hours of clerical time for
the 2015-16 school year.
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12.4
Graduated Adult Fees
Information will be provided at the meeting.
13.
REPORTS OF REPRESENTATIVES
13.1
BCSTA Annual General Meeting
12
The BCSTA Annual General Meeting will be held in Vancouver, April 16
to 19, 2015. Attached are motions which will be discussed and voted
upon at the AGM. If you believe that any of these motions are
controversial or require discussion prior to the AGM, please bring these
forward at the board meeting. (Attachment)
13.2
BCSTA Thompson Okanagan Branch Meeting
47
The annual general meeting of the BCSTA Thompson Okanagan
Branch will be held on April 17, 2015, 8:00 a.m., at the Hyatt Regency
Vancouver.
13.3
14.
Trustee Comments
INFORMATION ITEMS
14.1
Recognition of Student Success
87
School District No. 67 (Okanagan Skaha) extends congratulations to the
students and groups for outstanding examples of success as shown on
the attached listing. (Attachment)
14.2
Recognition of Student Artwork
Congratulations are extended to the students from Columbia Elementary
School for their artwork currently on display at the school board office.
(Attachment)
14.3
Date of Next Meeting
•
•
April 23, 2015, 6:30 p.m., Public and DPAC Budget Meeting, at IMC
Building
May 11, 2015, 6:30 p.m., Regular Board of Education Meeting, at
the School Board Office
15.
QUESTION PERIOD
16.
ADJOURNMENT
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
That the meeting be adjourned.
88
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SSS Parent Advisory Committee Executive
School Board Trustees
4/7/2015
RE: Late French immersion class placement impact on Summerland Secondary School
Hello Board Members:
We are writing to the Board to ask that when you consider the placement of the final grade 6 late French immersion (LFI)
class, you add to your list of considerations the impact this decision will have on Summerland Secondary School (SSS). There
are four main concerns: reduced enrollment, altered class composition, engaged parents lost from community, and SSS
cost efficiencies.
1.
Summerland applicants who are only able to attend the LFI program at KVR often stay in Penticton for high school
and SSS suffers reduced enrollment. It is understandable that a student forming connections in another
community will want to continue with their established peer group. In some cases, SSS loses the chance to educate
the younger siblings as these families and their children become more familiar and comfortable with Penticton
Secondary School (PSS), are already commuting for one child, so choose to enroll the second child at PSS.
2.
When a subset of a cohort is removed, the class composition is altered. Although as a PAC, we fully support that
LFI should be a program that is open to all students, the reality is that they do not represent a random group of
students entering grade 6 in Summerland; many of the students who choose this stream have felt comfortable
choosing this work-intensive program as they have a strong school ethic or have an above average academic
record. As many of us on the SSS PAC are teachers, we know that teaching a class that has a number of students
who are engaged and/or understand concepts changes the classroom environment for all students in that class.
We are changing learning opportunities for not only for the LFI students we are moving to Penticton, but also
those remaining in Summerland. At SSS, unlike PSS, English and French students mix for courses like math and
upper sciences, where these sorts of engaged students could have their greatest influence on classroom dynamics.
3.
Engaged parents are lost from community along with their LFI child. Parents who are engaged enough in their
children’s education to drive them to another community are often the same parents who play a greater role in all
of their child’s/children’s schools (e.g., two of the sports coaches at KVR this last year were from the small pool of
LFI Summerland parents, in spite of the much larger pool of Penticton-based parents). Although we are thrilled
they are engaged and embracing their children’s new Penticton community, SSS and Summerland Middle School
(SMS) are losing out on engaged parents through the movement of students to Penticton.
4.
SSS needs more cost efficiencies because small schools cannot take advantage of economies of scale, and typically
are more costly due to base staffing needs and buildings maintenance costs that are distributed over fewer
students. The number of students offered to change communities each year may seem insignificant (15 students
this year), and data from previous years would suggest 1/3 of the students will not take the offer to leave
Summerland if the class is placed in Penticton; that may still leave as many as 10 students considering schooling
away from SSS. This number is not insignificant. If SSS had only 7 more students for each of the last 4 years, that
would mean 28 more students in the SSS building, which could earn the school both another teacher and more
funding. These are not insignificant benefits in a small school, but proportionally huge changes. Additionally,
French immersion courses would become filled and more cost effective.
There are also great benefits to be had by Penticton students attending SSS and SMS. Part of what makes our schools
great is their small school community. Additionally, both schools are well placed with a pool, rink, curling rink, and new
skate park being built nearby. SSS also has an abundance of graduation scholarships, a full theatre for drama
th
productions, and an amazing science lab. Placing the 4 LFI class in Summerland will offer these advantages and more
to students.
Thank for taking the time to hear our concerns,
Sharon Mansiere
Chair of SSS PAC on behalf of the SSS Parent Advisory Committee Executive
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FIELD TRIP REQUESTS
School Board Meeting – April 13, 2015
1.0
LEVEL 1 – (LOW RISK DAY TRIPS APPROVED AT SCHOOL LEVEL)
2.0
LEVEL 2 - LOW RISK (UP TO 2 NIGHTS IN BC) APPROVED BY PRINCIPAL
3.0
LEVEL 3 – MED/HIGH RISK (2+ NIGHTS IN BC) APPROVED BY SUPERINTENDENT
4.0
3.1
June 5 – 7, 2015 and June 12 – 14, 2015; KVR Middle; 15 to 20 students of the fly
fishing club to participate in an excursion to Link Lake to gain experience in fly
fishing. David Hird.
3.2
May 21 – 24, 2015; Penticton Secondary; 18 students to travel to Victoria, BC
viewing the BC Parliament Buildings and Provincial Museum. Jasmine Hunter,
Kathryn Stel, Alan Stel.
3.3
June 15, 2015; KVR Middle; approximately 150 grade 8 students to participate in
year end activity at Myra Canyon Adventure Park; Aubin, Gopodis, Epp, Hodson,
McGrady, Parkinson.
3.4
June 1 – 3, 2015; Skaha Lake Middle; 100 – 125 grade 8 students to participate in
a year end activity to Rockridge Canyon; Travis Kroschinsky plus other teaching
staff and parents.
LEVEL 4 - TRIPS REQUIRING BOARD APPROVAL
IN PRINCIPLE / PROCEED WITH PLANNING:
FINAL APPROVAL:
4.1
April 23 – 26, 2015; Penticton Secondary; approximately 50 secondary band and
choir students to travel to Calgary, AB, to perform at various venues and attend a
live performance. Out-of-province travel. Board approved in principle March 9,
2015. Final Board approval requested.
4.2
May 13 – 16, 2015 ;Skaha Lake Middle; 49 grade 8 band students to travel to
Edmonton, AB for a spring band tour; Dave Brunelle & Will Schlackl plus parent
chaperones. Out-of-province travel. Board approved in principle November 10,
2014. Final Board approval requested.
Don MacIntyre
April 13, 2015
Ref U:\SBO-DOIC-Data\2014-2015\10000 - 19999 Curriculum\Field Trips\11150-20 fieldtrip 2015-04-11.docx
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ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2015
EXTRAORDINARY MOTIONS
E1.
E2.
BCSTA Bylaw Update
Two Year Term for BCSTA Directors
SUBSTANTIVE MOTIONS
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
Evergreen/School Leaving Certificate
Graduation Program - Curricula Grades 10 and 11
Social Media in BC’s Education Curriculum
Integrated Funding Model for Child and Youth Mental Health Services
Stronger Support for Student Mental Health at the School District Level
Stronger Supports for Student Mental Health Provincially
Advisory Group on Provincial Assessment
BCSTA Provincial Council Meetings
Changes for a More Useful Early Development Instrument
Clarifying Conflict of Interest Guidelines
Co-Governance Annual Review of Effectiveness
Territory Acknowledgement
First Nations Welcome
Representation on the Government's Rural Advisory Committee
Rural Communities
Request for School Boards to be Exempt from Canada’s Anti-Spam Legislation
(CASL)
BCSTA Provincial Collective Bargaining Initiative #1
BCSTA Provincial Collective Bargaining Initiative #2
Expanding the Loan Forgiveness Program to Address Staffing Shortfalls in
Under Served Areas of BC
New Teacher Mentorship Program
Education Finance
Capital Funding Support
Free Ferry Travel for Students when Travelling for School Based Activities
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EXTRAORDINARY MOTIONS
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E1.
BCSTA BYLAW UPDATE
SUBMITTED BY: Board of Directors
BE IT RESOLVED:
That BCSTA amend the Bylaws of the Association by deleting each
reference to “Executive Director” and replacing it with “Chief Executive
Officer”.
RATIONALE:
Boyden Global Executive Search (“Boyden”), the search firm engaged by the
Association to assist with the recruitment of the Association’s Executive Director,
recommended that the Association change the title of Executive Director to Chief
Executive Officer. According to Boyden, the CEO title is increasingly being used by
not-for-profit organizations in place of the title Executive Director. In addition,
Boyden advised that utilizing the CEO title may help to make the position more
attractive to prospective candidates.
Extraordinary motion.
Relates to Bylaw 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 10, 11, 13, 15, 17, 21.
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4
E2.
TWO-YEAR TERM FOR BCSTA DIRECTORS
SUBMITTED BY: SD74 (Gold Trail)
BE IT RESOLVED:
That Bylaw 2 be deleted and replaced with the following:
“2.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.
ELECTION AND DUTIES OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS
Elections for Directors and elected Officers will take place at the Annual
General Meeting.
The Minister of Education shall be the honorary President of the
Association.
The elected Officers of the Association are the President and the VicePresident.
The immediate past President, if he or she agrees to serve, will be an
Officer. If the immediate past President cannot or will not serve, then this
position is vacant.
There will be four (4) Directors if the immediate past President agrees to
serve; five (5) otherwise.
The Executive Director will be the secretary-treasurer.
An elected Officer will serve a term of two (2) years commencing at the
close of the Annual General Meeting at which such individual is elected
and concluding at the close of the second Annual General Meeting held
subsequent to such Officer’s election.
The term of office for Directors will normally be two (2) years. However
the Board of Directors may, by resolution, determine that some or all
Directors’ positions will have a term of one (1) year with the intent of
ensuring that not all Director positions are up for election in the same
year. For the purposes of calculating the duration of a Director’s term of
office, the term will be deemed to commence at the close of the Annual
General Meeting at which such Director was elected and to conclude at
the close of the first or second Annual General Meeting held subsequent
to such Director’s election as applicable.
No person may stand for election for President, Vice-President or Director
unless he or she is a trustee serving on a member Board.
The President will call meetings of the Provincial Council at least twice in
each year between Annual General Meetings and of the Board of Directors
at least monthly. The President will chair meetings of the Board of
Directors, and the President, or such person as he or she designates, will
be chair of meetings of the Provincial Council. The President will appoint
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5
k.
l.
members to the Association’s standing and ad hoc committees. The
President will be an ex officio member of all BCSTA committees.
The Vice-President will perform all duties of the President at such times as
the President is unable to perform them.
Notwithstanding the requirements of subsection (i), a Director or Officer
whose Board ceases to be a member solely by reason of its being
abolished under the School Act may remain in office until the next
Provincial Council meeting, or Annual General Meeting, whichever first
occurs, following the abolition.
RATIONALE:
Now that the term of office for school trustees is four years, a two year-term for the
President, Vice-President and Directors fits in very well in that schedule, and would
allow trustees elected to the Board of Directors a longer period of time to learn their
roles and to accomplish their goals.
Extraordinary motion.
Relates to Bylaw 2.
2 of 2
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SUBSTANTIVE MOTIONS
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3.
EVERGREEN/SCHOOL LEAVING CERTIFICATE
SUBMITTED BY: Aboriginal Education Committee
BE IT RESOLVED:
That BCSTA write a letter to the Minister of Education in support of the
First Nations Education Steering Committee’s recommendations around
Evergreen Certificates.
RATIONALE:
In its December 2014 Accountability Framework Discussion Paper, FNESC
recommends “that the Student Credential Order be amended to ensure only students
designated special needs and on an IEP be eligible for an Evergreen Certificate.
Mechanisms to monitor and support School District compliance with the new Student
Credential Order should be developed as soon as possible.”
The issues of graduation standards and processes are currently under review by the
Ministry of Education. FNESC is concerned about the gap between Aboriginal and
non-Aboriginal student achievement; especially with respect to entry into postsecondary institutions.
The Ministry of Education’s “Aboriginal Report 2009/10-2013/14 How are We
Doing?” includes the following statistics regarding graduation rates and entry into
post-secondary institutions:
• Graduation rate from Grade 12 within 6 years of entering Grade 8 (2013-2014)
• Non-Aboriginal: 86%
• Aboriginal: 62%.
School Completion/Evergreen Certificate and GED are not graduation credentials,
thus limiting opportunities to enter post-secondary.
REFERENCES:

FNESC: December 2014 Accountability Framework Discussion Paper
http://www.fnesc.ca/resources/publications
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8

Ministry of Education: Aboriginal Report 2009/10-2013-14 How Are We Doing?
http://www.bced.gov.bc.ca/abed/perf2014.pdf
This is an action motion and does not change or contradict any existing
Foundational or Policy Statement.
Relates to Foundational Statement 5.3FS Aboriginal Education
2 of 2
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4.
GRADUATION PROGRAM – CURRICULA GRADES 10 AND
11
SUBMITTED BY: SD36 (Surrey)
BE IT RESOLVED:
That BCSTA ask the Ministry of Education to publish the timeline for
completion of the redesigned graduation program curricula and to
release draft curricula for grades 10 and 11 by September 2015.
RATIONALE:
Surrey School District is encouraged by the new K-9 curriculum. We believe that
teachers are being given more freedom to teach to their strengths and to students’
passions. This curriculum was developed by teams of teachers working with the
Ministry of Education and creating draft curricula in several subject areas.
Components of the new K-9 curriculum were made available in October 2013 and
feedback has been gathered for revisions.
The issues of big ideas, core competencies and innovation which have been
incorporated into the new K-9 curriculum will be challenging to incorporate into the
existing grade 10-12 graduation program where subjects are discrete and not
interconnected.
We hope that the opportunities and flexibility presented in the K-9 curriculum will
soon be available in grades 10-12. We believe we need a new Graduation Program
to connect to the strong work that has been conducted with respect to the K -9
curriculum and we welcome a chance to know the timelines for completion of that
work so our teachers can be given a chance to review its progress and to move from
concepts to action.
We believe that substantial work has already been completed on the grades 10 and
11 draft curricula. We also recognize that additional time and work is required to
complete the draft curricula for grade 12. We therefore request that the draft
curricula for grades 10 and 11 only be released by September 2015.
REFERENCE:

https://curriculum.gov.bc.ca/
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10
This is an action motion and does not change or contradict any existing
Foundational or Policy Statement.
Relates to Foundational Statement 5.1FS Educational Program Objectives
and Policy Statement 5.1.1P Provincial Curriculum Development, Funding,
and Implementation.
2 of 2
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5.
SOCIAL MEDIA IN BC’S EDUCATION CURRICULUM
SUBMITTED BY: SD72 (Campbell River)
BE IT RESOLVED:
That BCSTA encourage the Ministry of Education to work with Boards
of Education to co-develop and implement a social media component in
the K-12 curriculum which would include, but not be restricted to, the
topics of internet safety, cyber-bullying, sexting, and posting videos on
social media sites.
RATIONALE:
Over the past several years there have been incidents of cyber-bullying which have
resulted in many young people taking their own lives. Some of the most highly
publicized incidents of cyberbullying are: the Amanda Todd and Rehtaeh Parsons
cases, the recent video ‘How to Kill Your Teacher’ posted online by two elementary
students in Castlegar, and the suspension of several fourth year dental students at
Dalhousie University for mysogynistic posts on Facebook, to name but a few.
Misogyny is “a hatred of women” (Merriam- Webster Dictionary). In addition,
anecdotal evidence suggests that cyber-bullying is far more widespread than
educators and parents would suspect.
It is crucial that our students understand what social media is, how it can be used
appropriately and inappropriately, the power that their online posts can have, and
the possible consequences, both for themselves and for those who may be victims of
the inappropriate use of social media.
Our world is changing, and our schools need to address this change in a way that
educates our students about the proper use of social media and the possible
consequences of its inappropriate use. Further, there is a wide disparity in teacher
knowledge and understanding of social media, and their abilities to provide adequate
instruction in this area despite the efforts of educators in many school districts to
address this serious and timely topic. For these reasons it is incumbent upon the
Ministry of Education to provide a clear framework for the delivery of this
information.
This is an action motion and does not change or contradict any existing
Foundational or Policy Statement.
Relates to Foundational Statement 5.1FS Educational Program Objectives,
Policy Statement 5.1.1P Provincial Curriculum Development, Funding and
Implementation.
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6.
INTEGRATED FUNDING MODEL FOR CHILD AND YOUTH
MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
SUBMITTED BY: SD44 (North Vancouver)
BE IT RESOLVED:
That BCSTA:
Urge the provincial government to continue its work on inter-ministerial
planning and supports for child and youth mental health services; and,
ask the Ministries of Children and Family Development, Education, and
Health to explore the creation of ‘shared-funded’ centres of excellence
or ‘lighthouse’ centres in the province where exemplars of integrated
services and supports are provided to school-aged children with mental
health concerns in a seamless manner.
RATIONALE:
The social and emotional well-being of students in our K-12 system is an essential
aspect in the development of children, and contributes to the educational success of
his/her pathway to graduation and beyond.
It is essential that this type of a model be directly connected to a school district as
most child and youth mental health challenges are first identified in these settings,
and schools have the most recent data on symptoms of challenges (e.g., attendance
etc.). An additional feature that needs to be considered in such pilots is the
teaching of best practices to interagency service providers such as teachers, mental
health clinicians, and health providers.
A ‘shared-funded’ centre where parents and children have an integrated case
management support minimizes wait time and procedural resistance.
Public schooling is the first point of reference for, and key access point to, concerns
regarding mental illness in children and youth
Proactive and collaborative programs, designed to address mental health literacy and
intervention, require the support and expertise from other Ministries outside of the
Ministry of Education’s jurisdiction. In order to meet all students’ needs for
counseling/health services, and social workers, funding needs to be integrated in
building a system of care and support within our schools and communities.
To build a system that fully integrates health and community services, other
Ministries play an important role, not only in developing programs but also in
supporting required funding.
Page 24
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REFERENCES:

Healthy Minds, Healthy People
http://www.health.gov.bc.ca/library/publications/year/2010/healthy_minds_he
althy_people.pdf

A Path Forward – BC First Nations and Aboriginal People’s Mental
Wellness and Substance Use – 10 Year Plan” (BC First Nations Health
Authority 2013)
http://www.fnhc.ca/pdf/FNHA_MWSU.pdf

The Select Standing Committee on Children and Youth Interim
Report: Youth Mental Health in British Columbia – November 27
2014
http://www.leg.bc.ca/cmt/40thParl/session-3/cay/reports/PDF/Rel-CAY-40-3InterimReport-Youth-Mental-Health-in-British-Columbia-2014-NOV-27.pdf
This is an action motion and does not change or contradict any existing
Foundational or Policy Statement.
Relates to Policy Statements 4.2.3P Preventative Health Care Program and
4.6.1P Coordination of Services.
2 of 2
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7.
STRONGER SUPPORT FOR STUDENT MENTAL HEALTH AT
THE SCHOOL DISTRICT LEVEL
SUBMITTED BY: SD46 (Sunshine Coast)
BE IT RESOLVED:
That BCSTA urge the Ministry of Education to increase financial support
to school districts in BC to address student mental health issues.
RATIONALE:
Student emotional and mental well-being has a strong effect on their achievement.
Individualized learning is a priority in the province.
Each school district has different and varied community resources available for
mental health support .
Stress prevention and individualized support is a vital intervention for students who
are struggling.
This is an action motion and does not change or contradict any existing
Foundational or Policy Statement.
Relates to Foundational Statement 4.2 FS Development of Student
Potential, Policy Statements 2.1.2Pb Roles and Responsibilities and 4.2.2P
Health-Promoting Schools.
Page 26
15
8.
STRONGER SUPPORTS FOR STUDENT MENTAL HEALTH
PROVINCIALLY
SUBMITTED BY: SD46 (Sunshine Coast)
BE IT RESOLVED:
That BCSTA urge the Minister of Education to review mental health
support and increase collaboration between all provincial ministries that
work with youth.
RATIONALE:
Students have identified mental health as a priority issue for them.
External and school stress has a direct impact on student achievement.
Although the province has programs in different ministries and departments, the
services are not always coordinated or evenly available around the province.
This is an action motion and does not change or contradict any existing
Foundational or Policy Statement.
Relates to Foundational Statements 4.1FS Purpose of Public Education,
4.2FS Development of Student Potential, and 6.1FS Teacher Education and
Professional Growth.
Page 27
16
9.
ADVISORY GROUP ON PROVINCIAL ASSESSMENT
SUBMITTED BY: SD36 (Surrey)
BE IT RESOLVED:
That BCSTA urge the Ministry of Education to support the Advisory
Group on Provincial Assessment’s recommendations contained in the
Advisory Group on Provincial Assessment Final Report June 2014 by
creating a standing Provincial Assessment Committee to continue the
dialogue about assessment and the future of our provincial assessment
program.
RATIONALE:
Surrey School District believes that our provincial assessment system needs to be
significantly restructured. There has been a working group that has done significant
work on assessment and we believe this important work needs to continue.
In 2013, the Ministry of Education invited representatives from a broad range of
stakeholders to form an Advisory Group on Provincial Assessment (AGPA).
The group was asked to provide advice on five assessment factors concerning our
provincial assessment program: purpose, design, content, stage of schooling and
level of reporting.
In its report, AGPA made several recommendations including creating a standing
Provincial Assessment Committee which would continue the dialogue about
assessment and continue to foster collaborative relationships and understandings
among stakeholders.
Our hope is that the strong work of AGPA would continue to inform the future of
assessment in BC.
REFERENCE:

https://dsweb.bcsta.org/docushare/dsweb/Get/Document75061/AGPA%20Final%20Report%20May%201%202014.pdf
This is an action motion and does not change or contradict any existing
Foundational or Policy Statement.
Relates to Foundational Statement 4.4FS Student Assessment and
Evaluation.
Page 28
17
10.
BCSTA PROVINCIAL COUNCIL MEETINGS
SUBMITTED BY: SD57 (Prince George)
BE IT RESOLVED:
That BCSTA’s Board of Directors reviews the February and October
Provincial Council agenda preparation, time requirements and agenda
topics with the intent of making the most efficient and effective use of
the Saturday morning and afternoon Provincial Council sessions.
RATIONALE:
This motion addresses the importance of “careful stewardship” of BCSTA’s resources.
Provincial Council meetings held in October and February have generally begun
informally on the Friday evening with a presentation and a reception followed by the
official Provincial Council business meeting on Saturday. The Saturday business
meeting agenda includes both a morning and afternoon session. However, the
afternoon business session has only been needed on extremely rare occasions. The
Saturday business meeting agenda traditionally includes presentation and adoption
of oral and written reports, tracking of AGM resolutions and provincial council
resolutions, any action items and emergent motions to Provincial Council. Past
experience has been that these items have been dealt with in the morning session
with adjournment of Provincial Council around noon. The Saturday afternoon
session has not been used recently. The question has been raised of whether there
is a way in which the unused time of the afternoon business session could be used
to effectively enhance and provide meaningful involvement of the Provincial Council
members. Bringing all 60 Provincial Council members together for a Friday
presentation and reception and a morning session on Saturday is very costly to the
Association.
This is an action motion and does not change or contradict any existing
Foundational or Policy Statement.
Relates to Foundational Statement 1.4FS Stewardship.
Page 29
18
11.
CHANGES FOR A MORE USEFUL EARLY DEVELOPMENT
INSTRUMENT
SUBMITTED BY: SD74 (Gold Trail)
BE IT RESOLVED:
That the BCSTA Board of Directors encourage the Offord Centre to
work with the Human Early Learning Partnership (HELP, UBC) in
consultation with the First Nations Education Steering Committee
(FNESC)
to make positive changes to the Early Development
Instrument (EDI) both in the survey questions and in how the results
are reported and shared with school districts.
RATIONALE:
Currently the EDI results do no more than to confirm the early learning /
kindergarten-readiness challenges embedded in low socioeconomic districts while
reaffirming that those districts in higher socioeconomic districts do not experience
the same low EDI scores. The EDI results are used for political influence when they
could be used to better inform practices. The EDI survey questions have not
changed much since the survey was created, and although this may have some
validity in consistency of tracking results, society, children, and our expectations
have changed. In what has become best practice of play-based learning, we no
longer expect our Kindergarten children to be proficient in the memorization skills of
knowing their ABCs, counting and so on. Research has shown us that a focus on
inquiry, play-based, and social and emotional learning best serves our early learners.
Yet the survey questions still ask questions like “demonstrates special literacy /
numeracy skills or talent”. That not only leaves the teacher wide open to subjective
evaluation, but may be asking the wrong question entirely.
Many Indigenous independent schools refuse to participate in the EDI survey due to
the cultural bias inherent in the questions. This is an aspect that needs careful
revision in collaboration with FNESC. This is obviously of concern to public school
trustees as well, if we are to assess our students in a fair and equitable manner.
School districts will greatly benefit by receiving more detailed results of the EDI in
order to better inform decisions and planning to address the needs of our early
learners. It would be beneficial if HELP could provide templates, or coach districts in
promising practices in making informed decisions with community-based intervention
strategies.
Page 30
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REFERENCES:

Early Development Instrument, Offord Centre for Child Studies
2014/2015
http://offordcentre.com/

UBC Human Early Learning Partnership (HELP):
http://earlylearning.ubc.ca/edi/
This is an action motion and does not change or contradict any existing
Foundational or Policy Statement.
2 of 2
Page 31
20
12.
CLARIFYING CONFLICT OF INTEREST GUIDELINES
SUBMITTED BY: SD81 (Fort Nelson)
BE IT RESOLVED:
That BCSTA develop clear and comprehensive guidelines or protocols to
assist Boards of Education with addressing potential conflicts of
interest, both pecuniary and non-pecuniary.
RATIONALE:
Trustees, both experienced and new, are often faced with situations of apparent or
potential conflict of interest that may be perceived as "grey." To protect the public
interest as well as the integrity, operation, and reputations of Boards and individual
Trustees, clear standardized guidelines with examples and criteria are essential.
This is an action motion and does not change or contradict any existing
Foundational or Policy Statement.
REFERENCE:

BCSTA: Conflict of Interest Under the School Act, February 2015
https://dsweb.bcsta.org/docushare/dsweb/Get/Document76933/2015_02_Conflict_of_Interest_under_The_School_Act%20%20Final.pdf
Page 32
21
13.
CO-GOVERNANCE ANNUAL REVIEW OF EFFECTIVENESS
SUBMITTED BY: SD42 (Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows)
BE IT RESOLVED:
That BCSTA involve all member Boards of Education in the annual
assessment of the Co-Governance Relationship Memorandum of
Understanding with the Ministry of Education by inviting Board input
through BCSTA’s regional branch associations and preparing a report
which:
1.
summarizes that input,
2.
identifies key areas of the agreement which Boards and the
BCSTA Board feel have been functioning well and those which
have not,
3.
makes recommendations to the Ministry and BCSTA on what can
be improved in either the wording or implementation of the
agreement going forward,
4.
identifies progress made on subsidiary protocol agreements
considered over the past year, and
5.
identifies the subsidiary protocol agreements which are to be
considered over the next year.
RATIONALE:
This motion is needed because BCSTA and the Ministry of Education have recently
signed a co-governance agreement. The value of any agreement can be enhanced
through ongoing monitoring of its effectiveness.
REFERENCES:

Co-Governance Relationship Memorandum of Understanding:
https://dsweb.bcsta.org/docushare/dsweb/Get/Document76709/2014-CoGovernance_Relationship_Memorandum_of_Understanding.pdf
This is an action motion and does not change or contradict any existing
Foundational or Policy Statement.
Page 33
22
Relates to Foundational Statements 2.1FS Co-governance.
Relates to Policy Statement 2.1.1P Co-Governance Principles, 2.1.2P Roles
and Responsibilities, 2.1.3P Flexibility, and 2.1.4P Communication with
Minister.
2 of 2
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23
14.
TERRITORY ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
SUBMITTED BY: Aboriginal Education Committee
BE IT RESOLVED:
That BCSTA encourage all member Boards of Education to acknowledge
traditional aboriginal territories when public Board meetings are held.
RATIONALE:
While many Boards of Education already offer recognition of traditional aboriginal
territories, the practice across the province could be more consistent. Offering
recognition is easy and doing so would recognize and continue to build upon
respectful relationships with BC’s Aboriginal communities.
This is an action motion and does not change or contradict any existing
Foundational or Policy Statement.
Relates to Foundational Statement 5.3FS Aboriginal Education.
Page 35
24
15.
FIRST NATIONS WELCOME
SUBMITTED BY: SD61 (Greater Victoria)
BE IT RESOLVED:
That BCSTA invite a local First Nations representative to conduct a
traditional welcome on their traditional territory at all provincial BCSTA
conferences and academies.
RATIONALE:
As the provincial organization representing school trustees, BCSTA has the
responsibility to be a leader in showing respect for the people upon whose territories
we live and do our work. Including local First Nations in provincial-level BCSTA
meetings by inviting them to conduct a traditional welcome would be a clear
demonstration of BCSTA’s commitment to fostering respectful relationships with the
200+ Indian Bands in BC.
This is an action motion and does not change or contradict any existing
Foundational or Policy Statement.
Page 36
25
16.
REPRESENTATION ON THE GOVERNMENT’S RURAL
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
SUBMITTED BY: SD57 (Prince George)
BE IT RESOLVED:
That BCSTA urge the provincial government to include equitable
representation from rural communities and
Boards of Education
throughout the province on
the “Rural Advisory Committee” as
proposed in the government’s February 2015 Speech from the Throne.
RATIONALE:
The February 2015 speech from the throne stated “In the coming weeks, your
government will introduce the ’Rural Advisory Committee’, which will provide
independent and impartial advice on helping rural B.C. increase opportunities,
manage growth, and meet its full potential in communities big and small.”
It will be critical that the “Rural Advisory Committee” has representation from those
on the ground in rural communities where the need for increased opportunities and
the management of growth are the challenges.
A process of collaborative inquiry where rural communities can learn from each other
as well as from outside through “independent and impartial advice” is needed along
with a commitment from government to provide the necessary investment and
support to stimulate growth and potential opportunities.
REFERENCE:

February 10, 2015 Speech from the Throne:
https://www.leg.bc.ca/40th4th/4-8-40-4.htm
This is an action motion and does not change or contradict any existing
Foundational or Policy Statement.
Relates to Foundational Statement 1.1FSc Mission, Policy Statements
1.3.4P Collective and Individual Voice of Members, and 5.1.2P Rural
Education.
Page 37
26
17.
RURAL COMMUNITIES
SUBMITTED BY: SD57 (Prince George)
BE IT RESOLVED:
That BCSTA urge the provincial government to commit to investments
in rural communities that will: increase opportunities to build careers
and raise families closer to home, address the financial and educational
challenges of rural schools and rural communities, and promote
economic growth and stability in rural centers.
RATIONALE:
In the February 2015 Throne Speech, government stated “Your government will
continue to work with rural communities across the province, increasing
opportunities to build careers and raise families closer to home, meaning more
growth in smaller centres.” Further, it stated “As opportunities increase in smaller
towns, your government is committed to help them meet the challenges that growth
can sometimes bring.”
Year after year, Boards of Education have brought the rural issue before government
with little or no response to our advocacy. Throughout the province we have rural
communities that continue to struggle to survive and rural communities that are
experiencing unprecedented growth. In both situations these communities face
significant challenges in providing the necessary infrastructure and supports,
including “equitable access to quality public education for rural students in their
communities.”( BCSTA Policy Statement 5.1.2P Rural Education). BCSTA must
continue to press the government to address the needs of rural communities and
specifically to act on its commitment as stated in the February 2015 Throne Speech:
“RURAL COMMUNITIES
Your government will continue to work with rural communities across
the province, increasing opportunities to build careers and raise families
closer to home, meaning more growth in smaller centres.
As opportunities increase in smaller towns, your government is
committed to help them meet the challenges that growth can
sometimes bring.
In the coming weeks, your government will introduce the Rural
Advisory Committee, which will provide independent and impartial
advice on helping rural B.C. increase opportunities, manage growth,
and meet its full potential in communities big and small.”
Page 38
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REFERENCE:

February 10, 2015 Speech from the Throne:
https://www.leg.bc.ca/40th4th/4-8-40-4.htm
This is an action motion and does not change or contradict any existing
Foundational or Policy Statement.
Relates to Policy Statements 5.1.2.P Rural Education and 2.1.2P Roles and
Responsibilities.
2 of 2
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18.
REQUEST FOR SCHOOL BOARDS TO BE EXEMPT FROM
CANADA’S ANTI-SPAM LEGISLATION (CASL)
SUBMITTED BY: SD44 (North Vancouver)
BE IT RESOLVED:
That BCSTA request that the federal government exempt public Boards
of Education from Canada's Anti-Spam Legislation (CASL) to allow
Boards to continue to share the diverse information parents and
guardians need to fully support their child's school and learning
experience, and that BCSTA take the motion to the Canadian School
Boards Association to seek national endorsement.
RATIONALE:
On July 1, 2014, many provisions of Canada’s new anti-spam legislation came into
effect. This legislation includes restrictions on the sending of commercial electronic
messages without the consent of the recipients. The federal government has
established some exemptions to CASL, including exemptions for federal and
provincial governments and registered charities.
This motion is important due to the profound difficulties Boards face to comply with
Canada's Anti-Spam Legislation (CASL). The difficulty in separating non-commercial
messages from messages that may refer, or link to, a fee-based program or costrecovering educational activity is particularly problematic. Board of Education email
content is designed to ensure that parents and guardians of students, as well as
third parties engaged in business with the school district, are well-informed of
initiatives and opportunities that may be available and of interest to them. Some,
but not all such emails, will have a commercial component to their content (i.e., a
cost-recovery fee for a field trip or program), and, as such, are considered to be
“Commercial Electronic Messages” (CEMs).
Even with a significant investment in technology, staff time and training, (thereby
reducing funding to teaching and learning) the broad scope of CASL's directives
make it unworkable for Boards to fully and consistently comply with the legislation
as it stands while maintaining a vital communications channel to parents.
REFERENCE:

www.fightspam.gc.ca
This is an action motion and does not change or contradict any existing
Foundational or Policy Statement.
Page 40
29
19.
BCSTA PROVINCIAL COLLECTIVE BARGAINING
INITIATIVE #1
SUBMITTED BY: SD42 (Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows)
BE IT RESOLVED:
That BCSTA request that the Ministry of Education, BCTF and BCPSEA
meet on a regular basis to review the last round of bargaining and
make recommendations for change to the existing provincial collective
bargaining process.
RATIONALE:
The motion is needed because it is obvious to all, the current provincial collective
bargaining process is not working for anyone; especially for the children in our
schools. It is imperative we do not wait. The parties need to meet now while the
experience of the last round of bargaining is fresh. The best results for a new
provincial collective bargaining process will come from those who are responsible for
enacting it. It is important the parties meet on a regular basis to build a better
system and, in the process, respectful relationships.
This is an action motion and does not change or contradict any existing
Foundational or Policy Statement.
Relates to Foundational Statement 7.1FS Collective Bargaining, Policy
Statements 7.1.1P Role of Locally Elected Boards of Education in
Bargaining, 7.1.2P Collective Bargaining Objective, and 7.1.3P Teacher
Bargaining.
Page 41
30
20.
BCSTA PROVINCIAL COLLECTIVE BARGAINING
INITIATIVE #2
SUBMITTED BY: SD42 (Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows)
BE IT RESOLVED:
That BCSTA request that the Ministry of Education, BCPSEA and
support staff unions meet on a regular basis to review the last round of
bargaining and make recommendations for change to the existing
provincial collective bargaining process.
RATIONALE:
The parties at the last round of bargaining would benefit by meeting now while the
experience is fresh. The best results for the next collective bargaining process will
come from those who are responsible for enacting it. It is important the parties
meet on a regular basis to create a process that builds respectful relationships and is
beneficial for all.
This is an action motion and does not change or contradict any existing
Foundational or Policy Statement.
Relates to Foundational Statement 7.1FS Collective Bargaining, Policy
Statements 7.1.1P Role of Locally Elected Boards of Education in
Bargaining and 7.1.2P Collective Bargaining Objective.
Page 42
31
21.
EXPANDING THE LOAN FORGIVENESS PROGRAM TO
ADDRESS STAFFING SHORTFALLS IN UNDER-SERVED
AREAS OF BC
SUBMITTED BY: SD81 (Fort Nelson)
BE IT RESOLVED:
That BCSTA actively urge the provincial government to expand the BC
Loan Forgiveness Program to include all teachers and specialist
instructors who relocate to under-served areas of BC.
RATIONALE:
Currently the loan forgiveness program is available to recent graduates of programs
such as nursing, medical professions, midwifery and pharmacy programs, who are
employed at a publicly-funded facility in an underserved BC community.
Within the educational domain, speech language pathology, occupational therapy,
audiology and physiotherapy graduates, teachers for the deaf and hard of hearing,
teachers for the visually impaired, school psychologists, and technology education
teachers that are employed at a publicly-funded facility or school district in BC are
also eligible for student loan forgiveness if they agree to work at publicly -funded
facilities in British Columbia.
Those qualifying for the program will see the government of BC forgive outstanding
BC Student Loan debt at a rate of 33 1/3 per cent of the total loans per year, and all
related interest, discharging the BC Student Loan after three years of service.
The proposed expansion of the program would provide critical assistance to rural
and remote districts currently experiencing a high level of difficulty in recruiting and
retaining quality staff, in order to provide service to students.
REFERENCE:

https://studentaidbc.ca/repay/repayment-help/bc-loanforgiveness-program#What_is_available?
This is an action motion and does not change or contradict any existing
Foundational or Policy Statement.
Page 43
32
22.
NEW TEACHER MENTORSHIP PROGRAM
SUBMITTED BY: SD36 (Surrey)
BE IT RESOLVED:
That BCSTA ask the Ministry of Education to: commit to providing
ongoing funding for the New Teacher Mentorship Program (NTMP) to
allow for the continuation and expansion of the program; and, share
the findings of the NTMP research with Boards of Education across BC
as this information will assist with the development of sustainable
models of teacher mentorship across the province.
RATIONALE:
Surrey School District believes that quality teachers are the backbone of our
education system. Research consistently confirms that the quality of the teacher is
the main factor in student success and achievement.
Knowing the importance of teachers and their training, school districts across BC and
the Ministry of Education continually invest in the quality of teacher training
programs.
Since 2013, the Ministry of Education, the BCTF, UBC and the BCSSA have an
established New Teacher Mentorship Program (NTMP) with the support of provincial
grants.
We believe that effective teacher mentorship programs are a sound investment both
in the short and long term and can benefit both rural and urban districts.
Funding for the NTMP is secured for two years ending in 2016.
Surrey School District believes this is a rich and important program and we welcome
ongoing funding and support to benefit all districts.
REFERENCE:

https://www.bctf.ca/NewTeacherMentoringProject.aspx
This is an action motion and does not change or contradict any existing
Foundational or Policy Statement.
Relates to Foundational Statement 6.1FS Teacher Education and
Professional Growth and Policy Statement 6.1.1P Teacher Development.
Page 44
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23.
EDUCATION FINANCE
SUBMITTED BY: SD42 (Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows)
BE IT RESOLVED:
That BCSTA
a.
work with all Boards of Education in the Province, the BC
Association of School Business Officials, the BC School
Superintendents Association and the Ministry of Education each
year to establish the level of funding required to meet the needs
of students attending public schools in British Columbia;
b.
make recommendations to the Province (through the Ministries
of Finance and Education) on the level of funding and required
revenues including taxation required to meet those needs;
c.
make recommendations on the funding formula and the budget
process including the practice of holding back funding.
RATIONALE:
Many Boards of Education in BC have experienced significant funding shortfalls over
several years resulting in substantial cuts to educational resources and programs.
The Provincial government wishes to achieve a balanced annual budget without
increasing taxes.
The amount included in the annual provincial education budget is not based on the
needs of the system identified by local Boards of Education but instead on an
amount required to reduce costs necessary to balance the provincial budget without
consideration for increasing tax revenues.
This is an action motion and does not change or contradict any existing
Foundational or Policy Statement.
Relates to An Act to Incorporate the British Columbia School Trustees
Association, section 3, objects a,b and f and Foundational Statement
8.1FS Government Support for Education.
Page 45
34
24.
CAPITAL FUNDING SUPPORT
SUBMITTED BY: Kootenay Boundary Branch
BE IT RESOLVED:
That BCSTA urge the Ministers of Education and Finance to review the
state of the schools and buildings in all school districts and request
funding for Boards of Education to upgrade or replace existing buildings
for the health and safety, and use of students and staff.
RATIONALE:
Annual Facility Grants are no longer adequate. Some Board of Education facilities are
60-70 years old. It takes many years for a request for capital funding to proceed
through the Ministry of Education approval process for a new school or large capital
upgrade project. In addition, every district is unique and has its own environmental
challenges.
The purpose of the additional capital funding would be for
repairing/replacing/upgrading school buildings, as was done with coastal schools for
seismic upgrades. The health and safety of our students and staff are a top priority
for all boards of education.
It is imperative that our schools be repaired or replaced to meet the ongoing needs
of our students and their education.
This is an action motion and does not change or contradict any existing
Foundational or Policy Statement.
Relates to Foundational Statement 9.1FS School Premises, Facilities,
Services.
Page 46
35
25.
FREE FERRY TRAVEL FOR STUDENTS WHEN TRAVELLING
FOR SCHOOL BASED ACTIVITIES
SUBMITTED BY: South Coast Branch
BE IT RESOLVED:
That BCSTA urge the Ministry of Transportation to adopt a provincewide policy of free travel on BC Ferries for all BC students travelling for
school functions.
RATIONALE:
This motion was brought forth by the South Coast Branch at AGM 2010. Since that
time, there has been some movement by the Ministry of Transportation to rearrange
the fee schedule on select routes to subsidize student travel. However, the revised
fee schedule is not equitable to all school districts. For example, all SD46 (Sunshine
Coast) students are able to travel free of charge for school events using a voucher
system which has now been extended to all non-school sports teams (e.g. hockey
and soccer teams that travel to the Lower Mainland for games). In contrast, SD47
(Powell River) students are still charged for travel to Vancouver Island, which is
SD47’s zone for BC School Sports.
REFERENCES:

http://www.bcferries.com/files/fares/pdf_format/BCF_Fares.pdf

http://prpeak.com/articles/2014/11/09/news/doc5453cd9d6dec79
72334457.txt

https://dsweb.bcsta.org/docushare/dsweb/Get/Document61866/Report_of_Proceedings_2010.pdf, Resolution #21
This is an action motion and does not change or contradict any existing
Foundational or Policy Statement.
Page 47
Page |1
THOMPSON OKANAGAN BRANCH
Branch Annual General Meeting, Friday, April 17, 2015
Hyatt Regency Vancouver – 655 Burrard Street
Breakfast @ 7:30 Annual General Meeting 8:00 a.m.
AGENDA
1. Recognition of Traditional Aboriginal Territory
2. Welcome and Introductions
3. Approval of the Agenda
THAT: The Agenda for the April 17, 2015 Annual General Meeting of the
Thompson Okanagan Branch of BCSTA be approved as distributed
4. Minutes of the April 25, 2014 Meeting
THAT: The Minutes of the April 25, 2014 Thompson Okanagan Branch of
BCSTA be adopted as circulated
5. President`s Annual Report
6. Financial Report
6.1
Draft 2015/16 Proposed Budget
THAT: The 2015/16 budget be approved as presented
6.2
March 31, 2015 Branch Financial Report
THAT: The March 31, 2015 Branch Financial Report be received
Page 48
Page |2
7. Election of Officers
The Chair will be turned over to the Nomination Committee: Moyra Baxter, Gordon
Comeau and Mitzi Fortin
7.1
President
7.2
Vice President
7.3
Education Chair
7.4
3 Members at Large (2 if a new President is elected)
8. Appointment of Branch Secretary Treasurer
The Branch Secretary Treasurer shall be selected by the Branch Executive to act in an
advisory and resource role to the Branch – may be of the same Board of which the
President is a member
9. Appointment of Auditor:
THAT: Liza Curran be appointed as Auditor for the 2014/15 year.
10. ADJOURN
Page 49
BCSTA THOMPSON OKANAGAN BRANCH
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
FRIDAY, April 25, 2014
Hyatt Regency - Vancouver
MINUTES
1. RECOGNITION OF TRADITIONAL ABORIGINAL TERRITORY
2. WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS
3. CALL TO ORDER
President Carmen Ranta called the meeting to order at 8:00 a.m.
4. ADOPTION OF AGENDA
MOTION:
Trustees Bobbie Johnson/Michel Saab
THAT: The agenda for the April 25, 2014 Annual General Meeting of the
Thompson Okanagan Branch of BCSTA be approved as presented.
CARRIED
5. ADOPTION OF MINUTES
MOTION:
Trustees John Harwood/Kathleen Karpuk
THAT: The minutes of the April 26, 2013 Branch meeting of the
Thompson Okanagan Branch of the BCSTA be adopted as circulated.
CARRIED
6. MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES
7. PRESIDENT’S REPORT
The President reported on the Thompson Okanagan Branch’s year’s activities.
8. FINANCIAL REPORT
MOTION:
Trustees RichieGage/Annette Glover
THAT: The 2014/15 budget be approved as presented.
CARRIED
MOTION:
Trustees Linda VanAlphen/Bill Turanski
THAT: The March 31, 2014 Branch Financial Report be received.
CARRIED
2
9. ELECTION OF OFFICERS
The Chair was turned over to the Nomination Committee: Moyra Baxter and Gordon
Comeau. The Nomination Committee nominated the following:
9.1 President
Carmen Ranta accepted the nomination of the Nomination Committee.
The Nomination Committee called for a second and third time for nominations, no
further nominations. The Nomination Committee declared Carmen Ranta elected by
acclamation, as President of the BCSTA Okanagan Branch.
9.2 Vice President
David Laird accepted the nomination of the Nomination Committee.
The Nomination Committee called for a second and third time for nominations, no
further nominations. The Nomination Committee declared David Laird elected by
acclamation, as Vice President of the BCSTA Okanagan Branch.
9.3 Members at Large
Nancy Rempel, Ginny Manning and Mitzi Fortin accepted the nomination of the
Nomination Committee.
The Nomination Committee called for a second and third time for nominations, no
further nominations. The Nomination Committee declared Nancy Rempel, Ginny
Manning and Mitzi Fortin elected by acclamation, as Members at Large of the BCSTA
Okanagan Branch.
9.4 Education Chair
Tamela Edwards accepted the nomination of the Nomination Committee.
The Nomination Committee called for a second and third time for nominations, no
further nominations. The Nomination Committee declared Tamela Edwards as elected
by acclamation, as Education Chair of the BCSTA Okanagan Branch.
9.5 Aboriginal Education Chair
Larry Casper accepted the nomination of the Nomination Committee.
The Nomination Committee called for a second and third time for nominations, no
further nominations. The Nomination Committee declared Larry Casper as elected by
acclamation, as Aboriginal Education Chair of the BCSTA Okanagan Branch.
9.6 Resolutions Chair
Annette Glover accepted the nomination of the Nomination Committee.
The Nomination Committee called for a second and third time for nominations, no
further nominations. The Nomination Committee declared Annette Glover as elected by
acclamation, as Resolutions Chair of the BCSTA Okanagan Branch.
10. Appointment of Branch Secretary Treasurer
The Branch Executive will discuss the appointment of the Branch Secretary Treasurer at
an upcoming executive meeting.
11. Appointment of Auditor
MOTION:
Tamela Edwards/Annette Glover
THAT: Liza Curran, SD74, be appointed as Auditor for the 2013/14 year.
CARRIED
Page 50
3
Page 51
12. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 8:11 a.m.
MOTION: Christopher Roden
THAT: The meeting be adjourned.
CARRIED
____________________
President
____________________
Secretary Treasurer
4
Page 52
THOMPSON OKANAGAN BRANCH
BCSTA MEETING
April 25, 2014
Attendees
SCHOOL DISTRICT
19
19
19
22
22
22
22
22
23
23
23
23
23
23
23
53
53
53
53
53/74
53
58
58
58
58
58
58
58
67
67
67
67
67
67
73
73
73
73
73
73
73
74
74
74
74
74
74
74
74
83
83
83
NAME
Alan Chell
Bryan Dubasov
Jeff Nicholson
Mollie Bono
Joe Rogers
Kelly Smith
Doris Squair
Bill Turanski
Moyra Baxter
Joyce Brinkeroff
Deb Butler
Rolli Cacchioni
Hugh Gloster, Superintendent
Chris Gorman
Larry Paul
Myrna Coates
Tamela Edwards
June Harrinton
Sam Hancheroff
Lynda Minnabarriet, Secretary Treasurer
Marieze Tarr
Kevin Black
Gordon Comeau
Richie Gage
David Laird
Steve Minnon
Bob Peacock
Leah Ward
Shelley Clark
Walter Huebert
Wendy Hyer, Superintendent
Bruce Johnson
Ginny Manning
Linda VanAlphen
Joan Cowden
Annette Glover
Denise Harper
John Harwood
Kathleen Karpuk
Terry Sullivan, Superintendent
Meghan Wade
Valerie Adrian
Larry Casper
Teresa Downs, Superintendent
Jim MacArthur
Carmen Ranta
Nancy Rempel
Christopher Roden
Mavourneen Varcoe-Ryan
Bobbie Johnson
Sterling Olson
Michael Saab
Page 53
Thompson Okanagan Branch BCSTA
President’s Annual Report 2015
The past year began as a year of uncertainty and is ending as a year we can collectively
remember as record breaking for the seemingly never ending major provincial issues. And as I
write this and as we plan for the Thompson Okanagan Branch AGM next month, issues
continue. Recognizing that there have been major accomplishments in labour settlements in
the past year, we also acknowledge the degree of challenge that seems unprecedented in
particular the rift in our relationships with government and the heightened pressure on all of
our local budgets-with no end in sight.
These challenges reinforce the need for, and value of, a highly functioning branch. Through our
branch relationships, we find kindred spirits; safe places to share conversation, warmth and
support. Through our branch we grow to know trustees and boards who challenge our
thinking, or who are often sounding boards for situations, thoughts, and ideas from our home
districts or the provincial table. We find the richness of experienced trustees, many in a variety
of provincial leadership roles. We have the opportunity to interact with trustees who model an
ideal and positive trusteeship, who possess the kindness, strength, competence that we all
hope to achieve. The branch provides us with a caring trustee family and opportunities to
grow, learn, and share.
The joy we all find in meeting trustees who are new to the role, all with a wide variety of
passion and amazing expertise and life experience, also make this outstanding branch rich with
knowledge-all valuable in our quest for better supporting the needs of each student. Our
passion to nurture and support increased success for indigenous learners is also a touchstone
that we all share by learning about FN culture and sharing successful strategies. Branch
relationships have supported some unique Shared Service partnerships between boards that
have led to cost savings for districts and model exemplary leadership to others in the province.
Our branch meeting in fall 2014 was held in Kamloops and hosted by the branch executive. We
were joined by George Abbott as a featured speaker, and discussed governance with each other
through a session facilitated by Gaila Erickson from BCSTA. Key business included adoption of
Branch Mission and Values, which sets our branch on a journey of strategic planning which will
provide a clear course and accountability for the branch through the coming term of office.
Page 54
Currently our strategic planning program led by the executive and that is currently underway is
outlined in this chart:
BRANCH STRATEGIC PLANNING DRAFT OUTLINE:
-Mission and Values, adopted fall 2014
-Vision Statement, pending spring 2015
-Strategic Goals (identification, strategies- facilitated session) - fall business meeting 2015
-Branch Communications Plan review (following strategic goal planning) - winter 2016
The goal of the branch Strategic Planning is to increase our mutual understanding and support
for the work and purpose of the branch, assist with professional development planning at our
meetings, and guide host districts to create meetings that really meet the needs of trustees
who attend, only to name a few.
The spring branch meeting was hosted by Vernon SD 22 and again the value of local Indigenous
knowledge was shared on the tour of First Nations educational interpretive site and FN
program developers, as well as the many specialty programs that were presented. We were
happy to hear about the many ways that learners are being supported by unique programs in
SD 22. The branch celebrated the increased attendance at all four of our branch committees,
Aboriginal Education, Education, Resolutions, and the Board Chairs Discussion, all open to any
interested member trustees.
BCSTA is a great organization, serving trustees well, and it is guided by a board that cares and is
in touch. We are fortunate to have a number of trustees elected as members of the BCSTA
Board of Directors and we especially thank President Teresa Rezansoff for her ongoing work
and her faithfulness to our branch as our liaison this year. Alan Chell has done a Trojan’s job as
one of the two BCSTA bargaining reps at the Teacher Bargaining table, and we thank him as
well. Best wishes to those running for the board of directors from our branch. Please
remember to support them at voting time.
In the spirit of sharing we have ensured that there is an extended time allowed at meetings this
year, a welcome change. This has created time for trustees and boards to share both formally
and informally at our gatherings. We have also streamlined our AGM resolution development
process so that it functions well including time to allow debate at a branch meeting prior to
adoption as branch motions.
Page 55
Thanks lastly to the hard working executive members Ginny Manning and Nancy Rempel who
carried a heavier than normal load through the past few months following the election. Thank
you to the other trustees who strengthen the branch by chairing meetings, representing our
region on provincial committees, or by working on special projects. Thank you also to Linda
Van Alphen for her assistance in leading the Mission/Vision/Values project.
Strong trustees make a difference, and a strong branch is a part of that strength. It is a privilege
to serve you.
Congratulations on a highly successful 2014/15.
Respectfully submitted on behalf of the branch,
Carmen Ranta
President
Page 56
Memo
To:
From:
Date:
Re:
Thompson Okanagan BCSTA Branch Members
Thompson Okanagan Branch Executive
Friday, April 17, 2015
Branch Meeting Budgets
The cost for the previous three Thompson Okanagan Branch meetings was:
2013/14 Fall Branch Meeting
$7,548
2013/14 Winter Branch Meeting $5,774
2014/15 Fall Branch Meeting
$6,028
To align the budget with the increased cost of Branch meetings, provided are
four proposals for consideration:
Option 1 (current practice):
No increase to dues or meeting chargebacks. Continue with a $5,000
budget for branch meetings.
Option 2:
Increase dues by $1,000. This option would increase each branch
meeting budget by $500 for a total meeting budget of $5,500.
Option 3:
Increase meeting chargeback from $60 to $70 per person. This option
would increase each branch meeting budget by $500 for a total meeting
budget of $5,500.
Option 4:
Increase dues by $1,000 and increase meeting chargeback from $60
to $70 per person. This option would increase each branch meeting by
$1,000 for a total meeting budget of $6,000.
The Branch Executive reviewed the proposed options and recommended Option
No. 4.
Recommendation:
THAT the BCSTA Thompson Okanagan Branch approve the implementation of
Option No. 4 which includes a dues increase by $1,000 and a meeting
chargeback increase from $60 to $70 per person allowing for a budget of $6,000
per meeting.
Page 57
BCSTA THOMPSON OKANAGAN BRANCH
SUGGESTIONS FOR 2013-14 BUDGET
Option 1
School District's Dues
Interest Revenue
CSBA Conference
Option 2
$
Administrative Expenses
8,000
30
(3,000)
Option 3
$
(1,030)
Sub total
$
Cost
9,000
30
(3,000)
$
(1,030)
4,000
Recoveries
Members Rate Total
Option 4
$
Cost
$
(1,030)
5,000
Recoveries
Members Rate Total
8,000
30
(3,000)
$
Cost
(1,030)
4,000
Recoveries
Members Rate Total
9,000
30
(3,000)
Cost
$
5,000
Recoveries
Members Rate Total
Fall Meeting
$ 5,000
50 $ 60
$ 3,000
$
(2,000)
$
5,500
50 $ 60
$ 3,000
$
(2,500)
$
5,500
50 $ 70
$
3,500
$
(2,000)
$ 6,000
50 $ 70
$ 3,500
$
(2,500)
Winter Meeting
$ 5,000
50 $ 60
$ 3,000
$
(2,000)
$
5,500
50 $ 60
$ 3,000
$
(2,500)
$
5,500
50 $ 70
$
3,500
$
(2,000)
$ 6,000
50 $ 70
$ 3,500
$
(2,500)
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
Total
Option 1
Option 2
Option 3
Option 4
Existing budget premise
Increase dues for all districts by $1,000
No increase in dues
Increase dues by $1,000
No increase in meeting chargebacks
Increase meeting chargebacks from $60 to $70 to
meeting goers
Increase meeting chargebacks from $60 to $70 to
meeting goers
Both meetings get extra $500 each for increased
expenses
Both meetings get extra $500 each for increased
expenses
Both meetings get extra $1,000 each for increased
expenses
No change required if stay within budgets
Other Options
Increase by more than $2,000 per year or any other amount
23/01/2015
Ref: O:\Business\BOARD OF EDUCATION\THOMP-OKAN BRANCH PRES\BRANCH EXECUTIVE agenda & minutes\BRANCH EXECUTIVE 2014_15\Branch Exec Feb 2_15\Copy of Zone Expenses New Budget 2014-15.xls
Page 58
British Columbia School Trustee Association
Proposed Budget
July 1, 2015 - June 30, 2016
(With Comparative Budget for 2014/15
Option 1 Option 2
Option 3
Option 4
2014/15
2015/16
2015/16
2015/16
2015/16
8,000
3,000
3,000
30
8,000
3,000
3,000
30
9,000
3,000
3,000
30
8,000
3,500
3,500
30
9,000
3,500
3,500
30
Revenues:
Assessment
Fall Branch Meeting
Winter Branch Meeting
Interest
Total Revenues
$ 14,030
$ 14,030 $ 15,030 $ 15,030 $ 16,030
Branch Operating Expenses
CSBA Conference
Executive Expenses
Fall Branch Meeting
Winter Branch Meeting
Total Branch Operating Expenses
3,000
260
5,000
5,000
$ 13,260
3,000
260
5,000
5,000
$ 13,260 $
3,000
260
5,500
5,500
14,260 $
3,000
260
5,500
5,500
14,260 $
3,000
260
6,000
6,000
15,260
Branch Support Services
Auditor Expenses
Miscellaneous
Total Branch Operating Expenses
$
300
470
770
300
470
770 $
300
470
770 $
300
470
770 $
300
470
770
Total Expenditures
$ 14,030
$ 14,030 $ 15,030 $ 15,030 $ 16,030
Revenue (loss) for year
$
$
Expenditures:
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
Page 59
British Columbia School Trustee Association
Thompson Okanagan Branch
Bank Balance
For the Year Ending March 31, 2015
Balance as of June 30, 2014
Deposits
Interest Income
Branch Fees 2014/15
Fall Meeting Dues
Cheques
CSBA Congress - July 2013
Fall Branch Meeting
Auditor's Fees
Miscellaneous
Balance as of March 31, 2015
$
7,248
$
93
3,192
2,515
$
13,048
$
3,112
6,028
200
12
$
9,352
$
3,696
Page 60
British Columbia School Trustee Association
Thompson Okanagan Branch
Statement of Revenue and Expenditures
For the Year Ending March 31, 2015
Actual Year
Ending
March 31, 2015
Budgeted Year
Ending
June 30, 2015
Actual Year
Ending
June 30, 2014
Revenues:
Cash, Beginning Balance
Assessment, 2014/15
Fall Branch Meeting
Winter Branch Meeting
Interest
$
7,248
3,192
2,515
Total Revenues
$
13,048
$
3,112
$
10,866
4,808
3,290
3,480
74
8,000
3,000
3,000
30
93
$
14,030
$
22,518.17
$
$
3,000
260
5,000
5,000
13,260
$
1,826
7,548
5,774
15,148
$
122
122
Expenditures:
Branch Operating Expenses
CSBA Conference
Executive Expenses
Fall Branch Meeting
Winter Branch Meeting
Total Branch Operating Expenses
6,028
$
9,140
Branch Support Services
Auditor Expenses
Office Expenses
Total Branch Operating Expenses
$
200
12
212
$
300
470
770
Total Expenditures
$
9,352
$
14,030
$
15,270
Revenue (loss) for year
$
3,696
$
-
$
7,248
Page 61
CONSTITUTION
I.
These Articles comprise the Constitution and By-laws of:
THOMPSON OKANAGAN BRANCH
A DISTRICT BRANCH ASSOCIATION
(hereinafter called “the Branch”)
AFFILIATED WITH
THE BRITISH COLUMBIA SCHOOL TRUSTEES ASSOCIATION
FORMED IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 9 OF
THE BRITISH COLUMBIA SCHOOL TRUSTEES ASSOCIATION
INCORPORATION ACT, 1956
AND ARTICLE 19 OF THE ASSOCIATION’S BY-LAWS
(hereinafter called “the Association”)
II.
The objectives of the Branch are:
III.
(a)
to promote effective trusteeship, utilizing any means compatible with the Constitution and Bylaws of the Association;
(b)
to meet and discuss matters of mutual interest and concern in education;
(c)
to cooperate with the Association in furthering the objectives of the Association; and
(d)
to provide a link whereby the concerns of the member boards may be most effectively
conveyed to the Association.
The composition of the Branch shall be those school districts so specified in Article 19 of the
Association’s By-laws, so long as they are members of the Association.
Page 1 of 9
Page 62
BY-LAWS
1.
2.
MEMBERSHIP
(a)
Membership in the Branch shall be open to all boards of school trustees eligible under Article
19 of the Association’s By-laws.
(b)
Life membership in the Branch may, by ordinary resolution, be conferred upon the President
upon expiration of office.
(c)
Honourary life membership in the Branch may, by extraordinary resolution requiring not less
than two-thirds (2/3’s) majority for approval, be conferred upon any person for distinguished
service within the branch.
(d)
Superintendents of Schools, Secretary-Treasurer’s and other administrative personnel of
member boards may be associate members, without vote. Such members shall be
encouraged to attend all general meetings and participate in discussion.
BRANCH EXECUTIVE
(a)
The Executive of the Branch shall consist of:
President
Vice-President
Branch Education Chairperson
Immediate Past President (for the period of one year after presidency)
and up to two Members at Large or
three Members at Large when there is no immediate Past President
Members of the Branch Executive shall be trustees and shall cease to hold office at the time
they cease to be trustees of member boards.
(b)
The President, Vice-President, Branch Education Chairperson and Members at Large shall
be elected at the Branch Annual General Meeting for a one year term.
(c)
An individual may hold more than one of the executive positions concurrently.
(d)
The Branch Executive shall select a Branch Secretary-Treasurer to act in an advisory and
resource role to the Branch. The Branch Secretary-Treasurer shall be appointed by the
Branch Executive to perform such duties as deemed necessary by the Branch Executive; the
appointee in any year may be the Secretary-Treasurer of the same Board of which the
President is a member.
(e)
For general meetings, the Superintendent of Schools of the host Board of Education, in
consultation with the Executive Committee, will be responsible for the educational program of
the meeting.
(f)
In the event of a vacancy occurring on the Branch executive, the remaining members of the
Executive shall have the power to appoint a trustee to fill the term of the vacancy.
Page 2 of 9
Page 63
3.
4.
DUTIES AND POWERS OF BRANCH EXECUTIVE AND OFFICERS
(a)
The Branch Executive shall carry out such duties as the Branch shall from time to time
assign.
(b)
The President shall preside at every meeting and shall be ex-officio member of all
committees. In the absence of the President, the Vice-President shall act on his/her behalf.
(c)
The Branch Education Chairperson should attend all meetings of the BCSTA Education
Committee and Branch Executive and report on activities of an educational concern and fulfill
all duties of branch education committee chairperson under BCSTA bylaws.
(d)
Members at Large should attend all meetings of the Branch Executive and perform such
duties as the Branch Executive or Branch may require from time to time.
(e)
The Branch Secretary-Treasurer shall send notices for all general, special, annual and
Executive meetings when directed to do so; have charge of and maintain the records of the
Branch and perform such other duties as the Branch Executive or the Branch may require
from time to time; shall make reimbursements by cheque, signed by any two of the following:
President, Vice-President or Secretary-Treasurer for all properly invoiced amounts.
MEETINGS
(a)
The annual meeting of the Branch shall be held during the BCSTA annual general meeting
on such dates and places as fixed by the Branch Executive.
(b)
Not less than three (3) general meetings shall be held during the year on such dates and
places fixed by the Branch Executive, one of which will be considered the AGM of the
Branch.
(c)
Not less than fourteen (14) days notice of general, special, and annual meetings shall be
given to all member boards.
(d)
Special general meetings may be called by the Branch Executive, and shall be called upon
the request in writing of two (2) member boards stating the business to be transmitted; not
less than fourteen (14) days notice shall be given in writing to the Secretary-Treasurer of the
member boards specifying the place, date and the hour of the meeting and the general
nature of the business.
(e)
No business other than the business, the general nature of which has been specified in the
notice of meeting, may be transacted at a special general meeting.
(f)
At any general meeting an ordinary motion, duly seconded, shall be decided on a show of
hands unless a ballot vote is called for by any ten (10) trustees attending such a meeting.
(g)
The quorum of a general meeting shall be established when two thirds of the member boards
are represented.
Page 3 of 9
Page 64
5.
(h)
Each attending trustee shall be entitled to one (1) vote. The chairperson of the meeting shall
have one (1) vote.
(i)
In the case of equality of votes, whether by a show of hands or ballot, the question shall be
resolved in the negative. The chairperson of the meeting shall vote when the vote is called.
(j)
Between general meetings, the Branch Executive may poll each member Board to determine
their views on a particular subject.
ELECTIONS
(a)
Elections shall be by ballot vote (simple majority) of the trustees present at the annual
meeting of the Branch.
(b)
The Immediate Past President or designate of the Branch shall conduct the election of
officers.
(c)
Prior to the calling of elections, the Past President or designate shall appoint three persons
to serve as scrutineers to handle the balloting and counting procedure; the results of balloting
for president and in subsequent balloting shall be given in confidence to the Past President
or designate for announcement.
(d)
A nominating committee of three (3) persons who are not members of the Branch Executive,
shall be appointed by the Branch Executive no later than two (2) months prior to the annual
meeting. The nominating committee shall obtain nominations for the offices of:
President
)
Vice-President
)
(every year)
Branch Education Chairperson
)
and up to two (2) Members at Large )
three Members at Large when there is no immediate Past President )
The Nominating Committee shall appoint its own chairperson and publish the names of
candidates offering themselves for office fourteen (14) days prior to the annual meeting; and
the chairperson of the Nominating Committee shall report to the membership at the annual
meeting.
6.
(e)
Nominations shall also be called for from the floor at the annual meeting prior to the voting on
each office.
(f)
Before any ballot is taken, any person nominated may decline office or withdraw his/her
name.
(g)
A motion to destroy the ballots shall be in order after all voting has been concluded.
BALLOT VOTES SHALL BE USED
(a)
For election of officers;
(b)
An amendment to the Constitution and By-laws;
Page 4 of 9
Page 65
(c)
7.
8.
On the taking of a vote on an ordinary motion when called for by any ten (10) trustees.
ANNUAL DUES
(a)
The Branch Executive shall prepare a proposed budget for submission to the member
boards attending the annual meeting.
(b)
The Branch shall, by resolution, determine the amount of the annual dues to be levied by the
member boards.
(c)
The fiscal year of the Branch is July 1st to June 30th.
AUDITORS
The auditor shall be elected for a one-year term at the annual general meeting of the Branch. The
accounts of the Branch shall be audited prior to and for presentation at the annual meeting of the
Branch.
9.
AMENDMENT OF BY-LAWS
The Constitution and By-laws of the Branch shall not be altered or added to except by extraordinary
resolution passed by a majority of two-thirds (2/3’s) of such members entitled to vote as are present
at a general meeting. Notice of intent to change, alter or amend the Constitution and By-laws shall
be given fourteen (14) days prior to the general meeting.
All amendments to the Constitution and By-laws are subject to approval by the Provincial Council.
10.
CEASING TO FUNCTION
In the event of the Branch ceasing to function, the minute books, books of account, financial records,
other documents of the Branch and any monies of the Branch shall become the property of and be
duly transferred to the Association.
11.
RULES OF ORDER
In all cases not provided for under these By-laws, Robert’s Rules of Order shall govern.
12.
REGULATIONS
The Branch may make regulations that may be altered or amended by ordinary resolution passed by
a simple majority of such members entitled to vote as are present at a general meeting. Notice of
intention to change, alter, or amend the Regulations shall be given fourteen (14) days prior to the
general meeting.
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REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE BRANCH
REGULATION 1.0 – GENERAL MEETINGS
1.1
General Meetings of the member boards shall be held not less than three (3) times a year, one of
which being the annual meeting.
1.2
The Branch Executive may whenever it thinks fit and shall upon requisition in writing by member
boards, convene a special meeting.
1.3
Fourteen (14) days notice of every general meeting specifying the place, the date and the hour of
the meeting, and in the case of special meetings the general nature of business, shall be given to all
member boards, but accidental omission to give notice to any member boards or non-receipt of
notice by any member boards does not invalidate any proceedings of any such meeting.
1.4
All general and special meetings shall be held in the Province of British Columbia.
1.5
In computing the number of days of notice of a general or special meeting required under these
Regulations, the day on which the notice is deemed to have been received and the day of the
meeting shall be counted.
REGULATION 2.0 – PROCEEDINGS AT GENERAL MEETINGS
2.1
All business shall be deemed special that is transacted at a general meeting, with the exception of
the consideration of accounts and election of members to the Branch Executive, or of any special
meetings.
2.2
Save as in these Regulations otherwise provided, no business shall be transacted at a general
meeting or a special meeting unless a quorum of persons entitled to vote is present at the time when
the meeting proceeds to business. The quorum of a general meeting shall be four (4) voting
member boards.
2.3
If within one half (1/2) hour from the time appointed for a general or special meeting a quorum is not
present, the meeting shall stand adjourned.
2.4
The President of the Branch shall be the chairperson of all general or special meetings or in his/her
absence from the meeting or in case he/she shall vacate the chair, the Vice-President or in the
absence of both, the Branch Executive shall select an acting chairperson.
2.5
The order of business at a general, special or annual meeting shall be that as published and
circulated to the membership, subject to such alterations as may be deemed advisable by the
majority of those present.
2.6
At any general or special meeting a resolution by the vote of the meeting shall be decided on a show
of hands unless a ballot vote is demanded by any ten (10) voting members.
2.7
In the case of equality in votes, whether on a show of hands or ballot, the question shall be declared
defeated.
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REGULATION 3.0 – VOTES
3.1
On a vote of a general nature, each attending trustee shall have one (1) vote.
3.2
On a ballot vote, each attending trustee shall have one (1) vote.
3.3
A motion to destroy the ballots shall be in order after all voting has been concluded.
REGULATION 4.0 – BRANCH EXECUTIVE OF THE DISTRICT BRANCH ASSOCIATION
4.1
At each annual meeting of the Branch, all members of the Branch Executive shall retire from office
and the members shall elect a new Branch Executive. A retiring member of the Branch Executive
shall be eligible for re-election.
4.2
The Branch may, by the affirmative vote of the member boards of not less than two-thirds (2/3’s)
remove any member of its Executive before expiration of his/her term of office and appoint another
member in his/her place, to hold office until the next annual general meeting.
4.3
A quorum for meetings of the Branch Executive is two where the Branch Executive consists of three
(3) members; three (3) where the Branch Executive consists for four (4) or five (5) members; four (4)
where the Branch Executive consists of six (6) members.
4.4
At meetings of the Branch Executive all matters shall be determined by a simple majority. The
chairperson shall have one vote.
4.5
In the case of equality in votes, whether on a show of hands or ballot, the question shall be declared
defeated.
4.6
The Branch Executive may:
(a)
Meet together for the conduct of business, adjourn and otherwise regulate its meetings as it
thinks fit, and shall meet when any four (4) member boards give to the other members not
less than fourteen (14) days notice of a special meeting.
(b)
Employ or contract for and on behalf of the Branch, such agents and servants as it thinks fit
in connection with the objectives, control, management and administration of the Branch.
(c)
Subject to any restriction imposed or direction given at a general meeting, delegate to one or
more of its members such of its powers and duties as it thinks fit, and at any time revoke
such delegation.
(d)
Approve payment of out-of-pocket expenses of the officers, employees and consultants
when incurred in Branch business.
(e)
Prepare a proposed budget for submission to the membership at the annual meeting.
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4.7
4.8
The Branch Executive shall:
(a)
Keep minutes of its proceedings.
(b)
Cause minutes to be kept of general, special and annual meetings.
(c)
Cause proper books of account to be kept in respect of all sums of money received and
expended by it and the matter in respect of which receipts and expenditure take place.
(d)
Prepare or cause to be prepared proper accounts relating to all monies of the Branch and the
income and expenditure thereof, for each annual meeting.
(e)
Prepare a proposed budget for submission to the member boards at the annual meeting.
(f)
On application of a member board, or any person authorized in writing by the member board,
make the books of account available for inspection at all reasonable times.
(g)
File with the Association minutes of meetings and financial statements of each and every
reporting to the member boards.
(h)
Fix the honorarium of the Secretary-Treasurer and any other personnel warranted.
Any act performed in good faith by a member of the Branch Executive shall be considered valid,
even if subsequently it is discovered that the appointment or continuance in office is in error.
REGULATION 5.0 – DUTIES OF THE ASSOCIATION TO THE BRANCH
5.1
The Association shall:
(a)
Maintain a constant and continuous liaison with each and every district Branch association.
(b)
Receive and report to the Provincial Council, in each and every instance, notice of changes,
alterations or amendments to Branch By-laws and Regulations; and convey Provincial
Council resolutions to the respective Branch.
(c)
Receive and report to the Provincial Council information of concern, or direction from the
Branch Executive, whether in brief or person.
REGULATION 6.0 – BRANCH RESOLUTION COMMITTEE
6.1
Timeline for the Resolution Committee to approve minor changes to Branch motions:
(a)
Submit AGM motions for consideration to Branch by December 1.
(b)
Motions to be distributed to Boards to review and respond to Branch by January 31.
(c)
Report on result of motions approved to winter Branch meeting.
(d)
Process for PC or emergent motions – submit by individual districts only; not for
Branch approval.
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6.2
Thompson Okanagan Branch Resolution Committee, along with the Branch President, have license
to amend branch resolutions to reflect input from the BCSTA Legislative Committee while
maintaining the original intent of the Branch resolutions as per April 25, 2014 Business minutes.
6.3
The Branch and the individual board will receive the amended motion prior to submission to the
BCSTA Legislative Committee.
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Page |1
THOMPSON OKANAGAN BRANCH
BUSINESS MEETING
Hyatt Regency Vancouver – 655 Burrard Street
Friday, April 17, 2015 to follow Annual General Meeting
AGENDA
1. Call to Order
2. Recognition of the Traditional Indigenous Territory
3. Welcome and Introductions
4. Approval of the Agenda
THAT the Agenda for the April 17, 2015 Business Meeting of the Thompson Okanagan
Branch of BCSTA be approved as presented.
5. Approval of the Minutes
THAT the minutes of the February 28, 2015 Thompson Okanagan Branch of BCSTA
Business meeting be adopted as presented.
6. Business
6.1
Reports
6.1 President’s Report, Carmen Ranta
6.2 BCSTA Liaison’s Report, Teresa Rezansoff
6.2
Vision Statement
At the February 28 Thompson Okanagan Branch Business meeting, Trustee Linda Van
Alphen distributed a draft vision statement for discussion by trustees. Based on the
discussion, the following draft statement was agreed on: To provide inspirational
professional development opportunities for our trustees with the goal of sharing
innovative practices while attending to strategic planning that improves student
achievement.
THAT the Thompson Okanagan Branch Vision statement be approved as presented.
6.3
Constitution and Bylaws
The Thompson Okanagan Branch Executive received a Branch Nomination Committee
update and reviewed the Branch Constitution and Bylaws. Attached is a memo and the
Constitution with recommended changes for discussion.
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Page |2
6.4
District Updates
An opportunity for Boards to share new events or new information.
6.5
Fall Branch Meeting – Update
School District No. 53 will provide an update regarding the fall branch meeting.
6.6
Meeting Schedule
SD No.53
SD No.83
SD No. 74
SD No.58
SD No.19
SD No.23
6.7
Okanagan Similkameen
North Okanagan Shuswap
Gold Trail
Nicola Similkameen
Revelstoke
Central Okanagan
Question and Answer period
7. ADJOURNMENT
September 25 & 26, 2015
February 2016
October 2016
February 2017
October 2017
February 2018
Page 72
Page |1
THOMPSON OKANAGAN BRANCH
BUSINESS MEETING
SATURDAY, February 28, 2015
The Village Green Hotel - Vernon
MINUTES
1. Call to Order
President, Carmen Ranta called the meeting to order at 10:35 a.m.
2. Recognition of the Traditional Indigenous Territory
3. Welcome and Introductions
4. Approval of the Agenda
MOTION:
Trustees Linda Van Alphen/Julia Fraser
THAT the Agenda for the February 28, 2015 Business Meeting of the Thompson
Okanagan Branch of BCSTA be approved as presented.
CARRIED
5. Approval of the Minutes
MOTION:
Trustees Valerie Adrian/Joe Small
THAT the minutes of the December 6, 2014 Thompson Okanagan Branch of
BCSTA Business meeting be adopted as presented.
CARRIED
6. Business
6.1
Financial Statements
MOTION:
Trustees Kathleen Karpuk/Mitzi Fortin
THAT the January 31, 2015 Thompson Okanagan Branch Financial
Statements be received as presented.
CARRIED
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Page |2
6.2
Reports
1. President’s Report – Carmen Ranta
President Ranta reported to trustees on her activities as branch president including the
on-going work on the mission, vision, values, and attendance at the BCSTA
education committee.
Branch Executive Report – Carmen Ranta
President Ranta reported to trustees on branch executive meetings that occur on a
regular basis. President Ranta reminded trustees that branch executive elections will
occur at the AGM in April.
2. BCSTA Report – Teresa Rezansoff
The BCSTA Board of Directors Liaison updated trustees on recent activities of the
BCSTA Board of Directors including how the board has reacted to the recent budget
announcement. Board chairs will be invited to participate in a March 9 conference
call prior to the March 12 grant announcement in order to inform media of local
impacts.
Aboriginal Education Committee – Larry Casper
The Chair of the committee, Trustee Casper, reported to trustees on the meeting of
the Aboriginal Education Committee attended by 7 of 9 districts. Discussion included
feedback on how the 100 Years of Loss, residential school resource is used in
districts: round table discussions, district Aboriginal Education Highlights, and the
BCSTA Aboriginal Education committee. Districts will be contacted for information
on employment equity policies and human rights exemption.
Board Chairs’ Discussion – Ginny Manning (Interim)
The Interim Chair of the committee, Trustee Manning, reported to trustees on the
meeting of the Board Chairs. Discussion included relationships and how they have
been impacted by job action and teacher payment of the 7 vs 8 days, BCPSEA AGM
motion regarding board of directors, and executive compensation.
Education Committee – Nancy Rempel (Interim)
The Interim Chair of the committee, Trustee Rempel, reported to trustees on the
meeting of the Education Committee. Discussion included how districts are
supporting students to explore their passions and strengths.
Question from Education committee: do trustees support combining the 2016
December academy with the 2016 Learning Forward conference?
MOTION:
Trustees Nancy Rempel/Julia Fraser
THAT the Thompson Okanagan Branch supports the Learning Forward
conference for December 2016.
AMENDMENT: Moyra Baxter/Linda Van Alphen
THAT the Branch supports BCSTA investigating the Learning Forward
conference instead of usual trustee academy and advise boards once
more information is available, including dates and costs
The amended motion was then voted on and CARRIED
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Page |3
This item will be discussed at all branches and information provided back to BCSTA
Education Committee.
Scholarships and awards: Education committee discussed current scholarships and
awards program. Ministry has requested feedback from boards by March 10 on the
current program and criteria. Education committee discussion included the criteria
being set by districts, $1,000 per student, support for students graduating with an
Evergreen certificate.
Adult education funding: impact varies by district. If cuts to Adult Education are
affecting your district, how and what advocacy is needed? Boards were asked to
provide this information to the Branch President to send to Education Committee for
the meeting in May.
3. Resolution Committee – Mavourneen Varcoe-Ryan
The Chair of the committee, Trustee Varcoe-Ryan, reported to trustees on the
meeting of the Resolution Committee attended by 5 of 9 boards. The committee
reviewed the branch resolution process which requires submission to the resolution
committee by December of each year. There are no branch motions moving forward
to the AGM, however, several districts will have resolutions at the AGM.
6.3
Nomination Committee Update – Mitzi Fortin
Trustee Mitzi Fortin provided a Nomination Committee update: President, Vice
President, Branch Education chair and three Members at Large. Term- 1 year; elections
will occur at the AGM. Trustees are encouraged to send nominations to the Nomination
Committee. Discussion occurred regarding the Branch Education Chair coming from the
trustees serving as their district’s representative on the Branch Education committee.
6.4
Vision Update – Linda Van Alphen
Trustee Linda Van Alphen distributed a draft vision statement for discussion by trustees.
Based on the discussion, the draft statement was agreed to: To provide inspirational
Professional Development opportunities for our trustees with the goal of sharing
innovative practices while attending to strategic planning that improves student
achievement.
There will be discussion at the next meeting at the AGM.
6.5
Board Reports
District representatives reported on highlights occurring in their districts.
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Page |4
6.6
Meeting Schedule
SD No.53
SD No.83
SD No. 74
SD No.58
SD No.19
SD No.23
Okanagan Similkameen
North Okanagan Shuswap
Gold Trail
Nicola Similkameen
Revelstoke
Central Okanagan
September 25/26, 2015
February 2016
October 2016
February 2017
October 2017
February 2018
7. Question and Answer period
Date of meeting schedule – September 25, 26 – concerns contact Branch president
8. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 12:15 p.m.
MOTION:
Trustee Adrian
THAT the meeting be adjourned.
CARRIED
____________________
President
____________________
Secretary Treasurer
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Page |5
THOMPSON OKANAGAN BRANCH
BCSTA MEETING - December 6, 2014
Attendees
SCHOOL DISTRICT
19
19
19
19
19
22
22
22
22
23
23
23
23
23
23
23
53
53
53
53
53
53/74
53
53
58
58
58
58
58
58
67
67
67
67
67
67
73
73
73
74
74
74
74
74
74
74
74
83
83
BCSTA
BCSTA
NAME
Alan Chell
Bill MacFarlane
Jeff Nicholson
Leslie Savage
Bruce Tisdale, Secretary Treasurer
Robert Lee
Lisa deBoer
Mitzi Fortin
Kelly Smith
Moyra Baxter
Deb Butler
Julia Fraser
Hugh Gloster, Superintendent
Chris Gorman
Lee Mossman
Lee-Ann Tiede
Rachel Allenbrand
Myrna Coates
Sam Hancheroff
Debbie Marten
Subra Paliappa, Assistant Secretary Treasurer
Lynda Minnabarriet, Secretary Treasurer
Marieze Tarr
Bev Young, Superintendent
Gordon Comeau
Brian Jepsen
Tim Kroeker
Dave Rainer
Gordon Swan
Leah Ward
Wendy Hyer, Superintendent
Bruce Johnson
Ginny Manning
Linda VanAlphen
Julie Planiden
Barbara Sheppard
Joan Cowden
Kathleen Karpuk
Joe Small
Valerie Adrian
Larry Casper
Teresa Downs, Superintendent
Jim MacArthur
Carmen Ranta
Nancy Rempel
Vicky Trill
Mavourneen Varcoe-Ryan
Bobbie Johnson
Michael Saab
Gaila Erickson
Teresa Rezansoff, President
Page 77
Memo
To:
From:
Date:
Re:
Thompson Okanagan BCSTA Branch Members
Thompson Okanagan Branch Executive
April 17, 2015
Constitution and Bylaws
The Thompson Okanagan Branch Executive received a Nomination Committee
update and reviewed the language regarding the Branch Education Chairperson
within the Constitution and Bylaws. The Executive recommended that this item
be forwarded to the April Branch Business meeting for further discussion.
Attached is the Constitution and Bylaws with recommended changes for
implementation in the 2015/16 school year.
Page 78
CONSTITUTION
I.
These Articles comprise the Constitution and By-laws of:
THOMPSON OKANAGAN BRANCH
A DISTRICT BRANCH ASSOCIATION
(hereinafter called “the Branch”)
AFFILIATED WITH
THE BRITISH COLUMBIA SCHOOL TRUSTEES ASSOCIATION
FORMED IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 9 OF
THE BRITISH COLUMBIA SCHOOL TRUSTEES ASSOCIATION
INCORPORATION ACT, 1956
AND ARTICLE 19 OF THE ASSOCIATION’S BY-LAWS
(hereinafter called “the Association”)
II.
The objectives of the Branch are:
III.
(a)
to promote effective trusteeship, utilizing any means compatible with the Constitution and Bylaws of the Association;
(b)
to meet and discuss matters of mutual interest and concern in education;
(c)
to cooperate with the Association in furthering the objectives of the Association; and
(d)
to provide a link whereby the concerns of the member boards may be most effectively
conveyed to the Association.
The composition of the Branch shall be those school districts so specified in Article 19 of the
Association’s By-laws, so long as they are members of the Association.
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BY-LAWS
1.
2.
MEMBERSHIP
(a)
Membership in the Branch shall be open to all boards of school trustees eligible under Article
19 of the Association’s By-laws.
(b)
Life membership in the Branch may, by ordinary resolution, be conferred upon the President
upon expiration of office.
(c)
Honourary life membership in the Branch may, by extraordinary resolution requiring not less
than two-thirds (2/3’s) majority for approval, be conferred upon any person for distinguished
service within the branch.
(d)
Superintendents of Schools, Secretary-Treasurer’s and other administrative personnel of
member boards may be associate members, without vote. Such members shall be
encouraged to attend all general meetings and participate in discussion.
BRANCH EXECUTIVE
(a)
The Executive of the Branch shall consist of:
President
Vice-President
Branch Education Chairperson
Immediate Past President (for the period of one year after presidency)
and up to two Members at Large or
three Members at Large when there is no immediate Past President
Members of the Branch Executive shall be trustees and shall cease to hold office at the time
they cease to be trustees of member boards.
(b)
The President, Vice-President, Branch Education Chairperson and Members at Large shall
be elected at the Branch Annual General Meeting for a one year term.
(c)
An individual may hold more than one of the executive positions concurrently.
(d)
The Branch Executive shall select a Branch Secretary-Treasurer to act in an advisory and
resource role to the Branch. The Branch Secretary-Treasurer shall be appointed by the
Branch Executive to perform such duties as deemed necessary by the Branch Executive; the
appointee in any year may be the Secretary-Treasurer of the same Board of which the
President is a member.
(e)
For general meetings, the Superintendent of Schools of the host Board of Education, in
consultation with the Executive Committee, will be responsible for the educational program of
the meeting.
(f)
In the event of a vacancy occurring on the Branch executive, the remaining members of the
Executive shall have the power to appoint a trustee to fill the term of the vacancy.
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Page 80
3.
4.
DUTIES AND POWERS OF BRANCH EXECUTIVE AND OFFICERS
(a)
The Branch Executive shall carry out such duties as the Branch shall from time to time
assign.
(b)
The President shall preside at every meeting and shall be ex-officio member of all
committees. In the absence of the President, the Vice-President shall act on his/her behalf.
(c)
The Branch Education Chairperson, a trustee appointed by their Board to the Branch
Education Committee, should attend all meetings of the BCSTA Education Committee and
Branch Executive and report on activities of an educational concern and fulfill all duties of
branch education committee chairperson under BCSTA bylaws.
(d)
Members at Large should attend all meetings of the Branch Executive and perform such
duties as the Branch Executive or Branch may require from time to time.
(e)
The Branch Secretary-Treasurer shall send notices for all general, special, annual and
Executive meetings when directed to do so; have charge of and maintain the records of the
Branch and perform such other duties as the Branch Executive or the Branch may require
from time to time; shall make reimbursements by cheque, signed by any two of the following:
President, Vice-President or Secretary-Treasurer for all properly invoiced amounts.
MEETINGS
(a)
The annual meeting of the Branch shall be held during the BCSTA annual general meeting
on such dates and places as fixed by the Branch Executive.
(b)
Not less than three (3) general meetings shall be held during the year on such dates and
places fixed by the Branch Executive, one of which will be considered the AGM of the
Branch.
(c)
Not less than fourteen (14) days notice of general, special, and annual meetings shall be
given to all member boards.
(d)
Special general meetings may be called by the Branch Executive, and shall be called upon
the request in writing of two (2) member boards stating the business to be transmitted; not
less than fourteen (14) days notice shall be given in writing to the Secretary-Treasurer of the
member boards specifying the place, date and the hour of the meeting and the general
nature of the business.
(e)
No business other than the business, the general nature of which has been specified in the
notice of meeting, may be transacted at a special general meeting.
(f)
At any general meeting an ordinary motion, duly seconded, shall be decided on a show of
hands unless a ballot vote is called for by any ten (10) trustees attending such a meeting.
(g)
The quorum of a general meeting shall be established when two thirds of the member boards
are represented.
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Page 81
5.
(h)
Each attending trustee shall be entitled to one (1) vote. The chairperson of the meeting shall
have one (1) vote.
(i)
In the case of equality of votes, whether by a show of hands or ballot, the question shall be
resolved in the negative. The chairperson of the meeting shall vote when the vote is called.
(j)
Between general meetings, the Branch Executive may poll each member Board to determine
their views on a particular subject.
ELECTIONS
(a)
Elections shall be by ballot vote (simple majority) of the trustees present at the annual
meeting of the Branch.
(b)
The Immediate Past President or designate of the Branch shall conduct the election of
officers.
(c)
Prior to the calling of elections, the Past President or designate shall appoint three persons
to serve as scrutineers to handle the balloting and counting procedure; the results of balloting
for president and in subsequent balloting shall be given in confidence to the Past President
or designate for announcement.
(d)
A nominating committee of three (3) persons who are not members of the Branch Executive,
shall be appointed by the Branch Executive no later than two (2) months prior to the annual
meeting. The nominating committee shall obtain nominations for the offices of:
President
)
Vice-President
)
(every year)
Branch Education Chairperson
)
and up to two (2) Members at Large )
three Members at Large when there is no immediate Past President )
The Nominating Committee shall appoint its own chairperson and publish the names of
candidates offering themselves for office fourteen (14) days prior to the annual meeting; and
the chairperson of the Nominating Committee shall report to the membership at the annual
meeting.
6.
(e)
Nominations shall also be called for from the floor at the annual meeting prior to the voting on
each office.
(f)
Before any ballot is taken, any person nominated may decline office or withdraw his/her
name.
(g)
A motion to destroy the ballots shall be in order after all voting has been concluded.
BALLOT VOTES SHALL BE USED
(a)
For election of officers;
(b)
An amendment to the Constitution and By-laws;
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(c)
7.
8.
On the taking of a vote on an ordinary motion when called for by any ten (10) trustees.
ANNUAL DUES
(a)
The Branch Executive shall prepare a proposed budget for submission to the member
boards attending the annual meeting.
(b)
The Branch shall, by resolution, determine the amount of the annual dues to be levied by the
member boards.
(c)
The fiscal year of the Branch is July 1st to June 30th.
AUDITORS
The auditor shall be elected for a one-year term at the annual general meeting of the Branch. The
accounts of the Branch shall be audited prior to and for presentation at the annual meeting of the
Branch.
9.
AMENDMENT OF BY-LAWS
The Constitution and By-laws of the Branch shall not be altered or added to except by extraordinary
resolution passed by a majority of two-thirds (2/3’s) of such members entitled to vote as are present
at a general meeting. Notice of intent to change, alter or amend the Constitution and By-laws shall
be given fourteen (14) days prior to the general meeting.
All amendments to the Constitution and By-laws are subject to approval by the Provincial Council.
10.
CEASING TO FUNCTION
In the event of the Branch ceasing to function, the minute books, books of account, financial records,
other documents of the Branch and any monies of the Branch shall become the property of and be
duly transferred to the Association.
11.
RULES OF ORDER
In all cases not provided for under these By-laws, Robert’s Rules of Order shall govern.
12.
REGULATIONS
The Branch may make regulations that may be altered or amended by ordinary resolution passed by
a simple majority of such members entitled to vote as are present at a general meeting. Notice of
intention to change, alter, or amend the Regulations shall be given fourteen (14) days prior to the
general meeting.
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REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE BRANCH
REGULATION 1.0 – GENERAL MEETINGS
1.1
General Meetings of the member boards shall be held not less than three (3) times a year, one of
which being the annual meeting.
1.2
The Branch Executive may whenever it thinks fit and shall upon requisition in writing by member
boards, convene a special meeting.
1.3
Fourteen (14) days notice of every general meeting specifying the place, the date and the hour of
the meeting, and in the case of special meetings the general nature of business, shall be given to all
member boards, but accidental omission to give notice to any member boards or non-receipt of
notice by any member boards does not invalidate any proceedings of any such meeting.
1.4
All general and special meetings shall be held in the Province of British Columbia.
1.5
In computing the number of days of notice of a general or special meeting required under these
Regulations, the day on which the notice is deemed to have been received and the day of the
meeting shall be counted.
REGULATION 2.0 – PROCEEDINGS AT GENERAL MEETINGS
2.1
All business shall be deemed special that is transacted at a general meeting, with the exception of
the consideration of accounts and election of members to the Branch Executive, or of any special
meetings.
2.2
Save as in these Regulations otherwise provided, no business shall be transacted at a general
meeting or a special meeting unless a quorum of persons entitled to vote is present at the time when
the meeting proceeds to business. The quorum of a general meeting shall be four (4) voting
member boards.
2.3
If within one half (1/2) hour from the time appointed for a general or special meeting a quorum is not
present, the meeting shall stand adjourned.
2.4
The President of the Branch shall be the chairperson of all general or special meetings or in his/her
absence from the meeting or in case he/she shall vacate the chair, the Vice-President or in the
absence of both, the Branch Executive shall select an acting chairperson.
2.5
The order of business at a general, special or annual meeting shall be that as published and
circulated to the membership, subject to such alterations as may be deemed advisable by the
majority of those present.
2.6
At any general or special meeting a resolution by the vote of the meeting shall be decided on a show
of hands unless a ballot vote is demanded by any ten (10) voting members.
2.7
In the case of equality in votes, whether on a show of hands or ballot, the question shall be declared
defeated.
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Page 84
REGULATION 3.0 – VOTES
3.1
On a vote of a general nature, each attending trustee shall have one (1) vote.
3.2
On a ballot vote, each attending trustee shall have one (1) vote.
3.3
A motion to destroy the ballots shall be in order after all voting has been concluded.
REGULATION 4.0 – BRANCH EXECUTIVE OF THE DISTRICT BRANCH ASSOCIATION
4.1
At each annual meeting of the Branch, all members of the Branch Executive shall retire from office
and the members shall elect a new Branch Executive. A retiring member of the Branch Executive
shall be eligible for re-election.
4.2
The Branch may, by the affirmative vote of the member boards of not less than two-thirds (2/3’s)
remove any member of its Executive before expiration of his/her term of office and appoint another
member in his/her place, to hold office until the next annual general meeting.
4.3
A quorum for meetings of the Branch Executive is two where the Branch Executive consists of three
(3) members; three (3) where the Branch Executive consists for four (4) or five (5) members; four (4)
where the Branch Executive consists of six (6) members.
4.4
At meetings of the Branch Executive all matters shall be determined by a simple majority. The
chairperson shall have one vote.
4.5
In the case of equality in votes, whether on a show of hands or ballot, the question shall be declared
defeated.
4.6
The Branch Executive may:
(a)
Meet together for the conduct of business, adjourn and otherwise regulate its meetings as it
thinks fit, and shall meet when any four (4) member boards give to the other members not
less than fourteen (14) days notice of a special meeting.
(b)
Employ or contract for and on behalf of the Branch, such agents and servants as it thinks fit
in connection with the objectives, control, management and administration of the Branch.
(c)
Subject to any restriction imposed or direction given at a general meeting, delegate to one or
more of its members such of its powers and duties as it thinks fit, and at any time revoke
such delegation.
(d)
Approve payment of out-of-pocket expenses of the officers, employees and consultants
when incurred in Branch business.
(e)
Prepare a proposed budget for submission to the membership at the annual meeting.
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4.7
4.8
The Branch Executive shall:
(a)
Keep minutes of its proceedings.
(b)
Cause minutes to be kept of general, special and annual meetings.
(c)
Cause proper books of account to be kept in respect of all sums of money received and
expended by it and the matter in respect of which receipts and expenditure take place.
(d)
Prepare or cause to be prepared proper accounts relating to all monies of the Branch and the
income and expenditure thereof, for each annual meeting.
(e)
Prepare a proposed budget for submission to the member boards at the annual meeting.
(f)
On application of a member board, or any person authorized in writing by the member board,
make the books of account available for inspection at all reasonable times.
(g)
File with the Association minutes of meetings and financial statements of each and every
reporting to the member boards.
(h)
Fix the honorarium of the Secretary-Treasurer and any other personnel warranted.
Any act performed in good faith by a member of the Branch Executive shall be considered valid,
even if subsequently it is discovered that the appointment or continuance in office is in error.
REGULATION 5.0 – DUTIES OF THE ASSOCIATION TO THE BRANCH
5.1
The Association shall:
(a)
Maintain a constant and continuous liaison with each and every district Branch association.
(b)
Receive and report to the Provincial Council, in each and every instance, notice of changes,
alterations or amendments to Branch By-laws and Regulations; and convey Provincial
Council resolutions to the respective Branch.
(c)
Receive and report to the Provincial Council information of concern, or direction from the
Branch Executive, whether in brief or person.
REGULATION 6.0 – BRANCH RESOLUTION COMMITTEE
6.1
Timeline for the Resolution Committee to approve minor changes to Branch motions:
(a)
Submit AGM motions for consideration to Branch by December 1.
(b)
Motions to be distributed to Boards to review and respond to Branch by January 31.
(c)
Report on result of motions approved to winter Branch meeting.
(d)
Process for PC or emergent motions – submit by individual districts only; not for
Branch approval.
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6.2
Thompson Okanagan Branch Resolution Committee, along with the Branch President, have license
to amend branch resolutions to reflect input from the BCSTA Legislative Committee while
maintaining the original intent of the Branch resolutions as per April 25, 2014 Business minutes.
6.3
The Branch and the individual board will receive the amended motion prior to submission to the
BCSTA Legislative Committee.
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Page 87
Recognition of Student|Success
School District No. 67 (Okanagan Skaha)
extends congratulations to the following students|groups
for these outstanding examples of success
PARKWAY ELEMENTARY
•
Thank you to Shelene and her
crew for a great job with the Breakfast
Club on Monday and Wednesday’s!
•
The students really enjoyed an
incredible hot lunch from Panago, a
huge thank you to Kelly Alva!
What is Success?
S ome people succeed because they are destined to, but
most people succeed because they are determined to.
•
Thank you to the Paper and
Juice recycling teams for continuing
to do a wonderful job with all of the
school recycling!
~Author Unknown
MARCH
SUCCESS 2015
•
Thank you to the outstanding
group of volunteers who look after the
Safe arrival program each day and to
all of the One to One readers, led by
Jodi Bird. Ms. Bird’s contribution to
Parkway is invaluable! Thank you so
much for the difference that you make
with the students!
•
The school Choir performed at the Music Festival and performed extremely well! Way to go Ms. Cole!
•
Bricks4kidz had another successful session.
•
Congratulations to the four students in Mrs. Silvius’ class that hit Gold Status on Mathletics!!!
•
The Parkway Games Club had a super time in the mezz area with their board games! It’s been a
huge success with over 30 students in attendance! Thank you to Mrs. Terris and Mr. Evans.
Success Stories for the Board of Educationn Me
Meeting
April 13, 2015
Page 88
School District No. 67 (Okanagan Skaha)
RECOGNITION OF STUDENT ARTWORK
Columbia Elementary School
April 13, 2015
Anna Manuel
A large colourful heart with a
description of:
Grade 1
Grad
School District No. 67 (Okanagan Skaha) extends recognition and appreciation to the following
students/groups of Columbia Elementary School for the artwork they submitted to be displayed
in the boardroom for the month of April.
‘My heart is the color of
silver sparkles. My heart
is that color because my
family is beautiful’.
Media: Watercolour paint and pastels.
Paper: Construction paper of fuchsia pink.
Colours of teal, greens, red, yellow,
purple and blue. Outlined in blocks
of color with a rainbow design,
a large heart in the center
with a peace sign that connects
it all together.
Landon Peterman
A large colourful heart with a
description of:
Grade 1
‘My heart is the color of
red and yellow. My heart
is that color because my
brother loves me’.
Media: Watercolour paint and pastels.
Colours of orange, red, yellow,
blue, green, lime and pink. Lots of
small hearts, lines and dots connect
it all together.
Page 89
Grade 5
Cai Lewendon
A study of human emotion.
Media: Waterpaints and ink on white cardstock.
A young boy (headshot) with a happy expression.
Dimitri
Casperson
A study of human emotion.
Media: Waterpaints and ink on white cardstock.
A young boy (headshot) crying with a sad expression.
Colours used: Bright pink, dark green, teal, black,
pink-red, brown and dark maroon-purples.
Grade
G
rade
e 5
Colours used: Black, yellow, red, orange and rust-pink.
Kia
Percevault
Grade 5
Page 90
A study of human emotion.
Media: Waterpaints and ink on white cardstock.
A young boy (headshot) with a surprised expression.
Colours used: Black, teal and blue with a white
background.
Megan
Pickford
A study of human emotion.
Media: Waterpaints and ink on white cardstock.
A young girl (headshot) with a happy expression.
Grade 5
Colours used: Black, brown, various tones of yellow,
pink, purple and green.
Page 91
Grade 4
Samuel Kleiver
A study of human emotion.
Media: Waterpaints and ink on white cardstock.
A young boy (headshot) with a very angry expression.
Carys
Panov
A splash of color!
Media: Waterpaints and ink on off-white cardstock.
A collection of five stars in the foreground,
randomly placed. Each star varies in color while
containing swirled patterns. Background is splashed
with colour and heavy brushed on strokes.
Background colours used: Deep blue, purple, dark brown
and green. Foreground colours used: Orange, deep
yellow, bright yellow, dark & light pink with ivory tones.
Kindergarten
Colours used: Black, red, orange, yellow and purple.