Local school trustees are among those who raised their hands for a new pact with teachers.
Both the Vernon and North Okanagan-Shuswap school boards were among the districts that voted for a two-year contract with teachers Wednesday.
“We appreciate that there’s some resolution but other issues are still back there,” said Bill Turanski, Vernon chairperson.
“There are a number of things still to be negotiated.”
While the agreement, which has also been ratified by teachers, dealt with issues like benefits, there was no resolution of wages, class size or class composition.
Turanski expects the next round of talks will be difficult because the outstanding items place financial pressures on districts but the government is not providing any new funding.
However, he is optimistic based on the new contract.
“Both parties have learned something — that we can come to an agreement. Perhaps that will be an incentive,” he said.
There was no discussion on extra-curricular activities in schools when districts voted Wednesday.
It’s unknown if teachers will return to volunteering for sports teams and clubs now that a contract is in place.
“We’re hoping things will be back to normal,” said Turanski.
