BURNABY Parents and workers were one voice at last nights school board meeting in demanding that the board reverse its decision to cut more than 40 jobs and eliminate classroom services.
The reason given for the layoffs in June no longer exists, CUPE Local 379 president Terry Allen said. The board announced that enrolment is up by more than 400 students this fall. That means more money will be coming.
The board can expect even more than the $1.2 million that was cut because of declining enrolment, Allen said. This is a huge amount and it should be used immediately to deliver needed services to the students of Burnaby schools.
The cuts were shortsighted in the first place, he added. The board has already heard a great public outcry from the families who rely on our multicultural liaison officers. But there are many other services that parents have a right to expect.
CUPE presented its case for restoring the jobs and services based on a thorough analysis of the preliminary budgeting process that led to the cuts. However, the board said it did not intend to restore the jobs and services.
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Contact: Terry Allen, CUPE Local 379 President, 604-291-7800.