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Union Representatives

There are many ways to actively participate in the Surrey Teachers’ Association and contribute to shaping the future of our profession.

Whether it’s joining a committee, serving as a site-based union representative, or attending our events and meetings, your voice matters. Explore the opportunities below and discover how you can get involved and make a difference.

Site-based Union Representatives Election Process

Voting

STA Members at each school/site vote for their site-based union representative at their first staff meeting in September.

Election Results

The candidate with the majority of votes is elected and they are responsible for various aspects of union work at the site level.

Information Update

Newly elected representatives must submit their school information update form and update whenever changes occur.

Staff Representative(s)

Each worksite is entitled to one staff representative for every 15 STA members, acting as the primary liaison between the staff and the union. Staff reps also support and accompany members in meetings with administration to help ensure their rights are upheld.

  • Defend the Collective Agreement.  
  • Uphold the BCTF Code of Ethics.  
  • Hold regular site-based STA meetings to keep members updated on union initiatives and promote union involvement.  
  • Answer union-related questions that members might have. 
  • Report school concerns to STA Table Officers. 
  • Represent the Surrey Teachers’ Association as shop stewards. 
  • Attend STA Representative Assembly meetings and General Meetings. 
  • Participate in School Union Rep Trainings (SURTs). 
  • Distribute BCTF and STA publications in teacher mailboxes. 

It’s important to consult with the STA Table Officers if unsure about a policy, procedure, or interpretation of the Collective Agreement.

Resources

The Staff Representative Handbook is a comprehensive resource designed to assist staff representatives in effectively serving and protecting the rights of their colleagues. It includes essential information on union-related procedures, member rights, and the responsibilities of staff representatives. Additionally, it offers guidance on effective communication, meeting protocols, and advocacy strategies. 

Training

Training is provided to assist representatives in the various aspects of the role. 

Professional Development (Pro-D) Representative

Each school/worksite has one Pro-D Representative who supports teacher-centered professional learning and serves as the primary contact for accessing Pro-D funding. This role involves: 

  • Advocating for teacher professional autonomy in Pro-D. 
  • Attending mandatory STA training in the beginning of the school year. 
  • Approving individual Pro-D funding forms. 
  • Tracking the financial allotment for Pro-D.  
  • Chairs the Pro-D committee. 

Resources

Explore our Professional Development page to enhance your professional growth and access funding opportunities. Our Pro-D resources provide information and documents to support Pro-D Reps in their roles. Key resources include:  

Training

Our Pro-D Representative Training equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively support teacher-centered professional development. This mandatory training, held in September, covers key aspects of funding management and ensures you’re well-prepared to facilitate professional learning and uphold teacher autonomy. 

Pro-D events MUST fit within the STA Funding Guidelines. If you are not sure, please contact the Professional Development Officer at pd@surreyteachers.org for confirmation/advice (otherwise funds might be denied after the event)

Staff Committee Chair

The Staff Committee Chair leads the staff committee in advising administration on school operations. This role involves: 

  • Developing and maintaining effective communication and consultative processes within the school. 
  • Reviewing school policies and procedures. 
  • Proposing recommendations for improvement.
  • Receiving and making recommendations on staff concerns. 

Resources

The Staff Committee Handbook provides essential guidelines for effectively leading and participating in the staff committee. It includes information on committee roles, responsibilities, and procedures, as well as best practices for communication and policy review. 

Training

Staff Committee Training prepares members to contribute effectively to the staff committee. 

Health & Safety Representative

The Health & Safety Representative is responsible for ensuring a safe and healthy work environment for all members. This role is crucial in maintaining safety standards and addressing concerns within the school/worksite. Key responsibilities include: 

  • Co-chair the Health & Safety Committee. 
  • Bring workplace health and safety issues to the committee’s attention.  
  • Participate in inspections and investigations. 
  • Attend relevant training sessions offered by the STA or employer. 

Resources

Our Health & Safety resources provide crucial information and tools for maintaining a safe work environment. Key resources include:  

Training

Training is provided to assist representatives in the various aspects of the role. 

Social Justice Representative

The Social Justice Representative advocates for equity, promotes social justice, and fosters an inclusive environment in the school community. Key responsibilities include: 

  • Receiving and distributing Social Justice materials from the BCTF and STA, such as magazines and posters. 
  • Attending Social Justice training sessions. 
  • Organizing an annual Social Justice-themed workshop at the school. 
  • Liaising with teachers at other schools to coordinate Social Justice initiatives. 

Resources

Visit the BCTF Social Justice page for valuable resources on promoting equity, inclusion, and social justice in your school community. Access materials such as posters, stickers, calendars, classroom resources, and more!  

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