Public education is at a breaking point.
Parents have reached out and shared their stories and concerns: they’re worried, frustrated, and heartbroken for their children. From increased violence at school to struggles with large class sizes and a lack of supports, they’re deeply worried for their safety and future, and so are we. This is not okay.
“He’s falling through the cracks.”
A worried mother told us about her son who has exceptionalities. Because of a lack of resources in the school, he is just not getting the help he needs to learn and thrive. After several years of struggling, she is losing hope.
“We’re worried about her future.”
Two frustrated parents shared that they’re considering leaving the province in pursuit of more educational support for their daughter.
“My children are of primary age. The amount of violence that happens in their school is alarming… The teachers are trying, but it is so frequent that I’m worried for their safety. Please, please help make our schools safe again.”
– A worried mother
“The violence is the worst.”
A concerned father says his primary-aged son has witnessed violence at school on multiple occasions – this should not be happening in our schools.
“My child should feel safe.”
We heard from a stressed mother whose child starts kindergarten next year. She’s heard about the immense levels of violence in K-12 schools, and she’s fearful for her daughter’s safety.
“Class size is ridiculous. Inclusive education isn’t a one size fits all. Run things better, help our teachers and in turn you will help our children. Enough is enough.”
– A frustrated mother
“Milestones aren’t being met.”
A worried parent told us about their daughter in grade 1, whose class is overcrowded and lacks sufficient student supports. Due to large class sizes and a lack of one-on-one time, they’re worried she will be ill-prepared to enter grade 2.
“My child needs more support.”
A concerned mother told us about her daughter, who is falling behind in reading milestones. With not enough teachers to go around, her child is not receiving the attention and support she needs. She’s afraid it’s inevitable that her daughter will be left behind.
“My daughters have a hard time with comprehension skills, and the size of the classrooms in their schools are overwhelming for them and for other students with learning disabilities. The teachers try to do their best, but with the size of the classrooms now it’s hard to help everyone in such a short time frame.”
– A concerned father
Earlier in 2024, our Association shared some startling figures about the increasing frequency and severity of violent and aggressive incidents in our schools – and things are not getting any better. There was an average of 22 violent incidents in our schools per day last year and incidents of physical violence or assault increased by 29% between 2022-2023 and 2023-2024.
Students are stressed. Children can’t learn if they don’t feel safe and secure.
Parents are worried about sending their kids to school.
Teachers are beyond frustrated. When they have to deal with aggressive behaviours, they can’t focus on what they came here to do – teach our children.
We clearly expressed our needs and expectations, and now — our disappointment.
What our government does next will impact our province for years to come.
Investing in our kids is key to solving our labour shortage. A quality education also leads to higher incomes, less reliance on social services, more entrepreneurship, and more tax revenue to re-invest in our province.
Our health care system is struggling. Much of this is beyond our control, but investing in education is an essential part of the solution. When we give every child the tools to manage their own health, we give our province a healthier future.
Our province is built on community, and that community spirit starts in the classroom. Our educators need time to build relationships with students. When we invest in education, we get more engaged and active citizens, less crime, and better social outcomes.
