Tabitha Gallicano Asks:
I just learnt of this question platform, so, some have already answered this question on facebook. Thank you!
The worlds of children and youth have been changing. The easier access to weapons, the increase in violence, and suicide due partially to bullying has some parents nervous about sending their children to public school. Some schools in larger metropolitan areas have implemented metal detectors and security upon arrival and departure. Other schools have put more support programs, such as counselors, psychologists, and group therapy in place for students. Within the last years there have been many cutbacks but such programs could prove wonders to a young persons mental well being. This is imperative as students spend a good portion of their lives at school. As trustee, do you potentially for-see more financials being allocated for resources that will not only keep our children physically safe, but also their mental and emotional health?
I absolutely agree that support programs, such as counselors, psychologists, and group therapy must be an essential part in keeping our children safe and well.
It will be up to the Board of Education to allocate more funds for such programs. What is needed is the political will to do so as well as the resources from the Provincial Government. In my opinion it is the duty of the Board to demand the needed funds from the Provincial Government, not just "hope" for them.
I think the School district is getting fairly "Top Heavy" and that we could spend more on support staff and programs in the schools and some less on Managers at the Board level.