BC teachers vote to end strike

B.C. teachers have voted decisively Thursday evening to end the acrimonious strike that has kept public schools closed since mid-June, and to accept the negotiated deal between the union and the province.

“We all know this deal isn’t perfect, but it provides some gains for teachers, protects ourCharter Rights, and increases support for students,” said BCTF President Jim Iker in a statement.

A total of 31,741 teachers cast ballots and 27,275 voted yes, 86%.

“This was a very tough round of negotiations and a difficult time for many of us on strike, but we successfully pushed back against concession demands and we have emerged as a stronger and more engaged union. Through the hard work of our teachers, British Columbians now fully understand the real issues facing our public education system,” said Iker.

Classes to resume next week.  It's not clear when yet.

“Next week, teachers will be back in classrooms and we will be working to ensure the new gains in this agreement begin to flow as soon as possible. That means more classroom and specialist teachers in schools to help students, our teachers teaching on call getting fair pay for a day’s work, and a salary boost for all members,” he added.

Original Article
Source: vancouverobserver.com/
Author: Mychaylo Prystupa