Schools will be open on Monday, but with teachers set to escalate to a full-scale strike, the Burnaby school district is asking parents to find someplace else for their kids.
"Teachers have voted to escalate the job action that began in September and have issued notice of withdrawal of services on Monday, March 5 for three days. We anticipate classes will resume on Thursday, March 8," wrote district superintendent Claudio Morelli in a letter emailed to parents. "Given that teachers will be on strike, instruction will not be available. There will also not be sufficient staff to provide adequate supervision. Since the safety and security of our students is always a priority, we ask that parents make alternative arrangements for their children during the strike."
Morelli's letter states there won't be picket lines, but there may be teachers handing out leaflets near schools. Parents can still access child-care programs without crossing picket lines.
Teachers voted in favour of escalating job action and got permission from the Labour Relations Board to strike for three days. Meanwhile, the provincial government is passing legislation that will force teachers to stay on the job or face stiff penalties.
In support of teachers, students across B.C. are planning to walk out of class today, and some in the Lower Mainland will gather at the Vancouver Art Gallery for a rally.
The district plans on updating parents online; check www.sd41.bc.ca for more information.
