Great news…That from local teachers president Nick Moore on a six year tentative agreement for BC teachers, as mediator Vince Ready once again worked his magic at the bargaining table.
Meanwhile Comox Valley School District Superintendent Sherry Elwood says it is a huge relief to see a deal getting hammered out.
Elwood says valley schools could be opened as soon as Friday, although it looks like early next week, possibly Monday, is more likely…
Teachers will vote on the package this Thursday, and it is expected schools will open shortly after.
B.C. Premier Christy Clark has called the six-year tentative agreement for BC teachers’ an historic occasion…adding an agreement of that length has never been reached with teachers before in the province.
At a news conference Clark says striking the deal took leadership on both sides and real courage from the union.
The BC government has reportedly agreed to put 108 million into a grievance fund…and also includes 100 million more to address class size and composition. The government also agreed to a learning improvement fund for teachers to the tune of 400 million dollars. Reports say the teachers pay hike of 7.25 per cent is in line with other public sector workers.