Canadian Outdoor Educators Release Open Letter to Minister of Education and Others
OutdoorHub 05.30.12
We, the undersigned, are providers of outdoor education in BC. The withdrawal of Extra Curricular Activities (ECAs) has negatively impacted our businesses, our suppliers and our clients – BC public school children
Outdoor education plays an important role in students’ development. Shy students shine, new stars emerge, accomplishments bolster confidence, bonds form through shared experiences and challenges are overcome, all in a wilderness setting. Students learn leadership, teamwork and initiative. Stereotypes, preconceptions, attitudes and barriers are easily dropped.
With the withdrawal of ECAs, outdoor education opportunities have been taken away from thousands of BC public school students, and the withdrawal has had a harsh and immediate impact on our viability. In some cases losses of revenue in the hundreds of thousands of dollars have occurred and will occur if this ECA action goes on after the beginning of September
We agree with you, Honourable Minister Abbott, that the contract dispute must be settled before the new school year starts in September.
We agree with you President Lambert, that there is public support for an independent mediator.
We respectfully request that the BCTF and the Government of BC agree to an independent mediator and that both parties sign a mediated contract over the summer in order that:
- Children can benefit from experiences outside the classroom that enhance overall learning.
- Teachers are able to return to their full commitment to children’s education.
- Our businesses avert potentially permanent damages.
The British Columbia Principals and Vice-Principals Association recently warned of “long-term and profound” negative effects if the dispute continues another year. We concur.
The signatories below request that the parties agree upon a mediator and work over the summer to resolve the dispute.
Sincerely,
Jamie Boulding & Christine Clarke, Executive Directors
Strathcona Park Lodge & Outdoor Education Centre, 250 286 3122
Richard Varela, Park Director
Horne Lake Caves and Outdoor Centre, 250 339 0555
Gord Campbell, Director
Tribune Bay Outdoor Education Centre, 250 335 0080
Bronco Cathcart, Executive Director
Sasamat Outdoor Centre, 604 939 2268
President, BC Camping Association
Irwin Harder, General Director
Camp Homewood 250 285 3483
Rob Tiessen, Executive Director
Camp Squeah, 604 869 5353 (ext 102)
Darryl MacLeod, Executive Director
George Pringle Memorial Camp, 250 472 6877
Craig Douglas, Executive Director
Timberline Ranch and Conference Centre, 604 463 9278 (ext 26)
Harry Edwards, Executive Director
Stillwood Camp and Conference Centre, 604 858 6845
Geoff Park, Owner, Senior Director
Camp Summit and Outdoor Education Centre 604 898 3700
Carmen Zajac, President
Zajac Ranch for Children, 604 739 0444
Rikk Kief, Executive Director
Gardom Lake Bible Camp & Retreat Centre, 250 838 6645
Andy Renton, Executive Director
Camp Imadene 250 749 6606
