About 20 years ago as a school trustee I had my motion to declare Chemainus, Cowichan High and Francis Kelsey as three campuses of one high school and it was approved by the board. That would allow students to take classes to get the courses they want in any or all three schools as there were not all the same options at each; hospitality at Francis Kelsey, trades at Cowichan High and good performing arts at Chemainus. This was at no cost to the board.
If the student could schedule their program and get from one school to the other it was allowed. They could ride a bus only if space was not used by regular catchment students. No additional buses were available.
This new proposal seems to come from the top down with little input from those that count. In order it should be: students, parents, then the board. Superintendents are CEOs, and their job may be to advise, but to implement and manage the board’s position is their real job.
In all things as a trustee I demanded to know how a proposal “would benefit the students” — financial benefits came second and only if it had no detrimental impact on the students. This new proposal deserves long and open discussion by all stakeholders including students.
John A. Mc Donald
Duncan
