Every school/site in Surrey has dedicated site-based union representatives who play a crucial role in supporting staff and maintaining a healthy, professional environment. These representatives are responsible for various aspects of union work at the site level, ensuring that members’ voices are heard and their rights are protected.
Union Representatives
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.
Staff Representative(s)
Staff Representatives serve as the primary liaison between members and the union, ensuring members’ rights are protected by accompanying them to any meetings with administration. Additionally, they:
- Defend the Collective Agreement.
- Uphold the BCTF Code of Ethics.
- Hold regular site-based STA meetings to keep members updates 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 Pro-D page to enhance your professional growth and access funding opportunities.
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.
- September 17: New to Role Pro-D Rep Training 2024: Role and Function of the Pro-D Rep
- September 18: Pro-D Rep Training 2024: Role and Function of the Pro-D Rep
- October 2: Pro-D Rep Training 2024: Role and Function of the Pro-D Rep
- October 3: Pro-D Rep Training 2024: Role and Function of the Pro-D Rep
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:
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!
© 2024 Surrey Teachers' Association. All rights reserved.