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?
This district has always tried to put as many resources as possible into supporting students. It's part of the reason we didn't have to hire a lot of LART and counselors when the Supreme Court decision came down, we already had them in place. This summer we added a district principal of inclusion to support programs such as anti-bullying, SOGI, and other wellness programs. We are also participating in the equity scan project to identify where we may be failing aboriginal students and to find ways to improve relationships with TIB and the other bands. We've also formed a district student advisory council who will be letting us know how we can better address student concerns and issues. That council is formed of students from each secondary and middle school in the district.