Good day, Minister,
Subject: Implementation of the K-12 Workforce Plan
The British Columbia School Trustees Association is a champion of good governance practices
among school boards, providing exceptional professional development and working with
partners to ensure the success of every student across British Columbia. As the sole
nonpartisan organization representing democratically and locally elected boards of education,
BCSTA has been a steadfast champion for good governance in public education for 120 years.
We were grateful that you were able to join us at BCSTA AGM 2025 in April of this year. During
the business portion of our event, members passed a motion requesting that the Ministry of
Education and Child Care enact the K-12 Workforce Plan, given the critical provincial
challenges in retention and recruitment.
In northern rural and remote districts, there is a history of recruitment and retention challenges.
Elements of the workforce plan reflect strong advocacy work. When implemented, this plan
would benefit all districts. ECC and BCPSEA have begun some three-year pilot projects related
to pre-employment incentives and rural practicum placements. The lessons learned from these
pilots need to be applied because they have made a significant difference in recruitment.
Measures related to retention embedded in the workforce plan will help retain staff within the
system. The unfortunate reality is that an increasing number of districts now depend on
teachers working on letters of permission to keep schools fully staffed.
Many districts are also struggling to find certified educational assistants to support their most
vulnerable learners. When certified assistants are unavailable, individuals who may not possess
the appropriate skill set or training are sometimes hired.
Your help in this matter can make a tangible difference in the lives of students, families and
communities, especially in our rural and remote areas.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Tracy Loffler
President
British Columbia School Trustees Association