We are writing in response to Mickey Kinakin’s letter to the editor (‘Trail leaders acting like bullies,’ Jan. 6) in order to clarify the position of the Glenmerry Parent Advisory Council (PAC.)
We have been involved in the Planning for the Future process since it was released in November 2009. The PAC has actively participated by attending all the open feedback meetings as well as 90 per cent of the 2010 regular board meetings.
The diverse needs of each community in SD20 have become apparent throughout the process. Our goals and concerns are similar; such as the necessity to keep K-7 schools as a consistent standard throughout the district to ensure that our youngest and most vulnerable students receive quality education in a stable school setting. In addition, quality programs are essential to address the unique needs of all students in SD 20. Programs like the same-sex groupings for Grade 7 students or French and Russian immersion have proven to be an asset to our students and district.
The Glenmerry PAC strongly recommended in their submission to the board that they review all budget items in an attempt to balance the budget without school closures and continue funding quality education in classrooms. For example, make buildings more energy efficient and evaluate the efficiency of the bussing system.
We stand firm that if school closures are necessary, the list of objective and weighted criteria in the 2010-2015 Facilities Report must be used as a guide. In short, we do not support the closure of any schools in Castlegar. Statements to the contrary are false. Castlegar PACs have our full support.
We do not intend to let misleading comments from trustees create divisions where there are none.
It is the education of all the kids in the district that is at stake.
Sheryl Moon
Glenmerry PAC Chair