Maximizing best early learning practices

What children experience in their early years has a lifelong impact on them. In an effort to ensure all BC children have the best chance for successful learning, BCSTA has joined with researchers Janet Mort and Neil Hughes of the Human Early Learning Partnerships (HELP) project, which explores what’s being done to improve early learning for preschool children in communities across BC. 

HELP researchers are currently examining school district and community projects that have enhanced opportunities for child development in the early years.  An in-depth study of up to 10 identified neighborhoods/communities was used to determine which interventions, parenting programs and/or care arrangements have successfully enhanced literacy, learning opportunities, and school readiness for vulnerable preschool children.

Study findings will be used to document the process, that district staff have used to implement early learning programs to determine the successes and roadblocks, and the perceptions of the experience.

As the study continues, trustees may be asked to contribute to the important research involved.

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BCSTA stays active on advocacy

BCSTA continues to receive responses to ongoing advocacy work on behalf of members. Education Minister Shirley Bond acknowledged the challenges for school districts in meeting the social, emotional and educational needs of refugee students.

Minister Bond responded to BCSTA concerns regarding Bill 7, the Local Government Statues Amendment Act, 2008.

BCSTA has also submitted a letter to the Vancouver Sun that expressed concerns regarding flaws in the recently issued annual school rankings published by the Fraser Institute. “… the conclusions drawn by the Fraser Institute are incomplete and misleading because it ranks schools based on a narrow snapshot of information,” notes President Connie Denesiuk, among the other arguments she sets forth.

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Board of Directors set strategic directions for 2008-09

Based on resolutions brought forward at BCSTA’s recent annual general meeting, the Board of Directors will meet Sunday, May 25 and Monday, May 26 to determine strategic directions for the coming year. Watch for news resulting from that meeting, including a detailed, front-page Education Leader story.

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Bulletin helps you prepare for November election

BC’s November municipal elections will be here faster than we realize. As a guide to important dates leading up to and including the elections, BCSTA General Counsel Judith Clark prepared her first Election Bulletin, e-mailed to trustees on Tuesday.

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