Candidates’ statements listed below on this webpage have been published in alphabetical order by last name. Please click the “+” sign to the left of the candidate’s name to reveal their personal statement and campaign materials.
Members who are interested in running for a position, but who have not yet submitted their name and statement, are encouraged to run from the floor, or they can submit their name to be added to this page, in the order they are received.
With 25 years of union activism, 22 BCTF AGMs, 13 years as Local Rep, served on 19 committees and working with 9 Presidents, I am asking you to vote Kevin Amboe as President.
On May 8, you will make the very important choice of who will lead your Surrey Teacher’s Association and lead in protecting your rights as a member.
Many of you are familiar with my demonstrated skills, abilities, and dedication and know that I get things done:
1. I have the institutional knowledge of 25 years of union activism.
2. I strongly believe in our first commitment to solidarity that we are all created equal, deserving of dignity and respect.
3. I have the integrity, experience, intuition, and understanding to achieve our goals.
4. I have the relational skills to unite our union at each level to work together for the greater good of teachers, teaching, and students.
5. I am well versed our collective agreement, policies, procedures, and constitution documents.
6. I am dedicated, tireless, organized, bridge builder, solution seeker and a high-capacity hard worker.
7. I know the Collective Agreement well through being on our local Bargaining Committee for 13 years.
I will continue to dedicate myself to our association in this role.
I commit to:
1. work to build positive relationships with the new Table Officer team, our support staff, the executive committee, and you as members,
2. use my institutional knowledge, experience and insight to focus on improvements to your working conditions,
3. support you as an individual in all aspects of your intersectionality,
4. stay calm in turmoil and prioritize members interests.
The association needs what I bring to ensure that our energies are directed to your needs, your schools, and your working life.
A vote for me as President will steer us in the same unified direction from our Table Officers, Executive Committee, Staff Reps, and members in advancing the Surrey Teachers Association.
We will be:
1. Engaging and listening to you to continue to bring a clear vision of what members want for their union,
2. Developing a clear strategic plan to be the strongest possible supporter of members and their needs and develop an annually updated 5-year strategic plan,
3. Rebuilding capacity and resilience in our association. I bring continuity and capacity to work for you and respond quickly to the difficult work of the association,
4. Holding the district accountable to follow the Collective Agreement language. Pushing the district to do better – including with recruitment and retention so that Failure to Fill and Remedy become only a bad memory.
With over 6600 members, you, the membership, are the Associations most valuable resource. As President, I want you to feel acknowledged and heard. I endeavour to respond to all member communication within 48 hours or less.
I hope I have earned your vote as the next Surrey Teachers’ Association President on May 8.
For more information visit https://amboe.ca/kevinforpresident or connect with me directly kevinamboe@gmail.com
When I started my teaching career in Apartheid-era South Africa, it was illegal for people like me to belong to a union. Now here I stand before Surrey teachers, seeking to be elected as your next president.
I started teaching in Surrey in 1996 and have witnessed the gradual deterioration in working conditions since then. I remember a time when resource rooms with EAs and LSTs were always available and the concepts of “remedy” and “failure to fill” were unheard of. Nowadays too many of us are stretched beyond healthy limits to do more with less. This untenable situation is totally unacceptable in our rich province.
STA Presidents have played pivotal roles in our association’s history, spearheading substantial efforts to improve working and learning conditions. Under previous presidents, members achieved crucial wins: class size and composition limits, indexed pensions, and maternity benefits. I’m proud of that legacy and believe that, amidst unprecedented attacks on public education, we, the 6,700+ STA members (13% of the BCTF) can work together to ensure equal learning opportunities for all students and healthy working conditions for all members.
Our collective power is our strength; we are strong because we are a ‘we’. This perspective is what inspired my design of the new “We are the Surrey Teachers’ Association” T-shirt.
Inscribed on the back are the STA’s purposes, now expanded to include a commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, which I brought to our 2023 AGM.
While First Vice-President, I guided an excavation of our 83-year-old union’s structures and processes which resulted in several necessary updates that have been democratically approved by STA governance bodies. Other updates included a handbook in support of the significant work done by committees to uphold our purposes, and the reconceptualization of various workshops and trainings.
Outside of the STA office, my most visible work has been my decade-long advocacy for BC public education. In 2014 I co-administered a FB group, BC Voters Supporting BC Public Education, that was so effective in garnering public support that then BCTF president, Jim Iker, sent us a thank you letter. Conversations in the group led to parents creating advocacy organizations such as BCEdAccess which holds annual advocacy conferences.
I’ve continued my advocacy as First Vice-President calling out in the media the deleterious impacts of underfunding on working conditions which, ironically, mostly mirror what I experienced in South Africa.
Today, Surrey teachers are faced with a range of challenges, from the impacts of explosive student population growth to the radical changes that Artificial Intelligence will bring to our teaching practices. But Surrey teachers also stand on a history of challenges overcome and victories won. At this critical time, I look forward to continuing that legacy as your president.
Blog: https://paradigms.blog/
Articles: https://thetyee.ca/Bios/Lizanne_Foster/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/389816123869123
Selected Leadership Experience
• BCTF
• Local Rep
• Executive Committee
• Adult Education Advisory Committee
STA Committees
• Executive
• Alternative Governance
• Bargaining
• Defense of Human Rights in Public Education
• Indigenization
• International Solidarity
• Members of Colour
• Public Advocacy/Public Relations
Solidarity is our strength.
With this principle at the forefront, I am confident in my ability to excel in the position of 1st Vice President and fulfill its responsibilities to the fullest.
Bringing a fresh perspective to our union, I have spearheaded changes throughout all my previous roles. Within my portfolio as the 2nd Vice President, I led the Surrey delegation to the BCTF AGM, revitalizing our approach with updated venues, schedules, and communication strategies. Whether it’s modernizing scholarship applications to online platforms, offering a diverse range of workshops to staff representatives, or facilitating a transition to more direct and private communications, I’ve been proactive every step of the way.
I plan to bring the same level of dedication and innovation to the portfolio of the 1st Vice President, driving meaningful change within our union.
Having previously served as Communications Coordinator and receiving provincial recognition for my work, I am eager to take on the responsibility of managing our association’s communications. Drawing on my experience as a member of over 20 committees throughout my union career, I understand the importance of fostering strong relationships and member engagement. As past Chair of the STA Status of Women Committee, I successfully expanded our membership and organized numerous workshops and events. Through my experience and dedication, I am prepared to diligently oversee the preparation of agendas and minutes for Executive Committee and General Meetings, as well as the organization of New Teachers’ Conferences.
Since embracing the call to leadership at the BCTF Women’s Institute in 2018, I have devoted myself to representing our members at various decision-making bodies and amplifying their voices on critical issues such as increasing our salary and prep times, extra supports in the classrooms, transparency with our members in decisions that are made, and various equity issues. By fostering a culture of inclusivity and transparency, I aim to ensure that every member’s voice is heard and valued. Looking ahead, I recognize that the upcoming bargaining year will be especially crucial for our union.
Solidarity is our strength, and as a leader who listens to the membership, I am committed to advocating for your priorities and ensuring that your voices are heard at the bargaining table.
My assets are my strong work ethic, organizational prowess, proficiency in technology, creative problem-solving skills, and ability to build genuine connections with people. These qualities have empowered me to effectively advocate for our members and drive positive change within our union.
It would be a privilege to continue serving as your 1st Vice President and collaborating with you to shape a brighter future for our union.
Solidarity is our strength, and together, we will achieve great things for Surrey teachers.
Selected Experience (see marcakis.weebly.com for my full resume)
• STA 2nd Vice President
• STA Communications Coordinator
• Local Representative to the BCTF
• CLC Winter School – Provincial Labour Law
• BCTF Women in Negotiations Facilitator
• BCTF Bargaining Conferences
• BCTF Federation Leadership Institutes: panelist for “How to be an Effective Leader”
As BC teachers prepare for another round of contract negotiations, it has never been more important to have people in leadership who have experience both within the union, and also outside of it. It is paramount that we understand how to navigate the structures of the union but that we retain an ability to dialogue with and listen to those outside of it. Solidarity with members of other unions, our students’ parents, and post-secondary teacher-training programs is integral to our ability to stand up to a political agenda intent on continuing to underfund public education, working people, and our communities.
In light of this trend, I am committed to advocating on behalf of my profession, my colleagues, and our students. I bring (i) 23 years of experience as a Secondary Modern Languages teacher and two years as SFU Faculty Associate, (ii) local/provincial experience as a workshop facilitator, peer support consultant, mediator, and BCTF executive, and, (iii) extensive experience as a union and environmental activist, as well as a speaker, organizer, policy writer, debater, bargainer and committee chair. Most days, I love this work and am grounded in the belief that everything we do is relational so connecting, engaging, & collaborating is at the very center of my activism and advocacy.
Experience:
• BCTF Executive Committee (2019-2022)
• STA Executive Committee LR (2014-present)
• Environmental Justice Committee chair (2018-present)
• Union Staff Rep (2003-2009, 2012-2022) and Staff Committee chair (2015-2022)
• BCTF Internal Mediator (2017-2019)
• BCTF Peer Consultant (2017-2019)
• Bargaining Committee co-Chair (2016-2018)
• STA International Committee Chair (2013-2014), member (2015-2018)
• BCTF AGM delegate (2005-2009, 2012-2024)
• BCTF International Solidarity Committee delegate to the Peru Project (2013)
• BCTF Social Justice and School Union Rep Training Facilitator (2012-2019)
• Adult Education Committee member (2013-2014)
• STA Delegate to the Tri-National Conference (Chicago 2014, Mexico 2018)
• PSA (Modern Languages) member (2002-2009)
Greetings Colleagues,
I am excited to be submitting my name again for the position of 2nd Vice-President for this coming year. I had the honour of serving recently in this role and working on behalf of all our members along side our elected leadership. Most recently, I have served as one of our BCTF Local Representatives strongly advocating our issues at the provincial level. During my times in office, I represented members throughout the grievance and investigation process, and have done so at the school level my whole career.
Throughout my 32 years in teaching in Surrey I have been deeply involved in the committees and functioning of our Association and in the development of our current structures. I have witnessed and been involved in developing a more inclusive and representative STA, and I would continue to provide a wealth of experience and institutional knowledge.
While completing a history of STA committees, I was reminded which of the pioneering work done by our association and its members at the local and provincial level through policy and collective action.
The next few years will see an explosive growth in our district and our membership that will require strategic planning to meet our members evolving needs. Next year, we will begin a new round of collective bargaining where we will need to fight hard get the things we did not achieve and to make real gains on wages and benefits.
I am a keen observer, reflective thinker, and a hard worker.
I am a proven mentor, experienced networker, and passionate ally to those who voices have been excluded.
I would continue to do this work with deep commitment and compassion.
I hope you might see my deep experience as an asset, and personally thank you for your consideration and ask for your support.
STA Experience:
• 2nd Vice President (3 years, most recently, 2022-2023)
• Local Association Representative (LR) (6 years) –Current
• BCTF AGM Delegation Co-Coordinator (1 year)
• Member-At-Large (1 year)
• Executive Committee (10 years)
• Finance Committee (2 years)
• PA/PR Committee (7 years)
• Provincial Election Coordinator (1991)
• District #36 Public Relations Committee (2 years)
• Resolutions Committee (14 years)
• Educational Governance Committee (2 years)
• TIME Committee (2 years)
• Labour Affairs Committee (15 years)
• Convention Committee (5 years)
• Indigenous Education Committee (6 years)
• Ad Hoc Indigenization Committee (1 year)
• Environmental Justice Committee (3 year)
• Staff Representative (30 years)
• STARA Steering Committee (8 years)
• Workflow Audit Subcommittee
• Awards Committee (2 years)
• Health & Safety Committee (4 years)
• Donations Subcommittee
• Ad Hoc Strategic Planning Committee
BCTF & Other Experience
• AGM delegate (31 years)
• Bargaining Conference (1 year)
• WR Long International Solidarity Committee (5 years)
• Teacher Newsmagazine Editorial Advisory Committee (4 years)
• BC Federation of Labour Convention (6 years)
• Tri-National Conference in Defense of Education (4 years)
• Anti-Racism/Human Rights Training Facilitator (3 years)
Dear Colleagues,
Serving as your Grievance Officer has been an immense honour. In this role, I have worked diligently to uphold and enforce our Collective Agreement, negotiate settlements that benefit teachers and with every opportunity, have advocated for better working conditions to the employer. When supporting members in crisis I have used a trauma-informed lens, because I know the continual erosion of our workplace conditions has taken a toll on teachers.
I have worked tirelessly to build union power among members who are new to the profession and who are new to the union. This form of member-driven unionism is an essential prerequisite to winning a contract that teachers deserve. I have visited countless schools across the district and worked with staff reps and other members of the school-based union team to solve school concerns and simultaneously demystify union structures, because all members deserve access and transparency. Through my service on committees, such as the STA Working and Learning Conditions and Members of the Global Majority, I have built capacity and mentored budding union activists.
As the first woman of colour serving as STA Grievance Officer, I know all too well the barriers members experience when first engaging with our union and I am committed to ensuring that the union activists who come after me do not face the same barriers. This is particularly important as we enter a new bargaining cycle, as the saying goes, united we bargain, divided we beg. I have enhanced my skills and knowledge on the BCTF Working and Learning Conditions and Bargaining Advisory Committee and STA Bargaining Committee. I strive to make bargaining more accessible to members, as such I have lead bargaining teach-ins, listening circles, and ardently pushed for open bargaining at both the provincial and local level. At my core, I am an excellent organizer which is why the 2nd Vice President role, who works closely with staff reps, is well-suited for my skill set. I ask for your support because I have demonstrated that I will work tirelessly for you and with you to enforce our contract, build our union power and fight for a fully funded public education system.
I have been teaching in the Surrey School District since 2017. Prior to that, I worked as a sessional instructor at Indiana Technical University, and as a Teaching Assistant at Simon Fraser University (MA: Print Culture and Book History), The University of Notre Dame (PhD: English Literature and Theory), and Keele University (Post-doctoral degree: Philosophy of Art and Aesthetics). My academic background hides the many years that I have spent in construction. As a carpenter, I formed and poured concrete to help alleviate the defeating expenses of higher education. Importantly, both of my parents taught in Surrey. I am proud of them. I am happy that life has given me an opportunity to teach here where it matters the most. My sympathy lies with anyone who gets up and goes home in the dark, aspiring for a better life for themselves and their kids.
My background in the Humanities makes me keenly aware of the reasons public educators defend democratic approaches toward achieving social equity. My experience as a labour-trading wage-earner has taught me to be observant of the myriad ways that bias and prejudice thwart democratic social ideals. Personally, I take my responsibility to listen, learn, and revise as the underlying condition that allows me to teach… Measure twice. Cut once. I would take this responsibility and ethos with me into any role that involves representing my colleagues.
There are three issues I feel strongly about. At least one may be a personal hobbyhorse.
In my opinion these issues (hobbyhorse included) continue the good work of our progressive union. I do not encounter them as a disjunction.
Please see submission for Second Vice-President
My name is Lexa Perl, I am a queer and trans teacher at Earl Marriott Secondary. As a young professional, I already have a breadth of experience as both a union member and labour advocate. My beliefs are firmly grounded in the power of collective action to improve workplace conditions. With that in mind, I am seeking to be one of your grievance officers.
I started engaging in labour advocacy prior to entering the teaching profession as a branch shop steward for Edmonton Public Library as part of Civic Service Union Local 52 (CSU52). Here I advocated for the security safety of members as they staff experienced an increase in the number of threats, harassment, and assaults from members of the public.
I started teaching in Alberta in 2018, and despite being a novice, I was elected as a site representative, which provided me with my first experience on a local executive committee. I was laid off the end of 2019 and moved to BC to teach in District 74 Gold Trail, where I was a staff representative navigating the realities of teaching during a pandemic. This experience put me on the front lines of defending worker rights to safety in the face of an apathetic administration.
Know I call the lower mainland home and have been teaching in Surrey since 2021. Presently I am a staff representative at Earl Marriott Secondary and sit on the STA executive committee as your Early Career and TTOC rep. I also hold seats on the resolutions, bargaining, status of women and 2SLGBTQ committees. Provincially, I sit on the BCTF’s committee for action on social justice as part of the 2SLGBTQ action group. These experiences have enabled me to hone my understanding of the BCTF, our collective agreement rights and the concerns of our membership.
In addition to professional labour experience, through my experiences as a neurodivergent, queer and trans woman I have learned about the challenges that multiply-marginalized members face in our district. Consequently, I can hold multiple truths simultaneously, useful when solving conflicts which appear to have only a binary solution by seeking “a third option” or holding management accountable to when they offer platitudes instead of support.
This year has come with a shift towards the employer treating the district as if it’s a for profit corporation. Pressing issues are only mitigated through the unpaid labour of our members. I wish to be an advocate for these members, many who are on the margins, who are regarded as replaceable or a nuisance. I believe in elevating concerns the employer would rather ignore, the racism, homophobia, transphobia, and harassment our members experience. I understand the challenges that come with the stress caused by low pay, ballooning workload and will communicate to the employer that their ongoing lack of care for our members comes at the cost of not only our members but also students, while failing to make Surrey a desirable place to start a career.
Thank you for your consideration.
Please see submission for Second Vice-President
Semiahmoo First Nations. I will continue to work every day to uphold my commitment to center my learning journey through an Indigenous lens, and I will honour those that have stewarded this ancestral land since time immemorial.
I have been honoured to serve and support the STA membership for the past five years, one year as your Health and Safety Officer, and four years as your Accommodations Support Officer.
I am proudly putting my name forward to continue in the last year of my term as Accommodations Support Officer, providing strong advocacy and calm guidance for our membership when seeking the necessary supports to take care of your wellness, physical and mental health, and accommodation needs in the workplace.
First and foremost, your health and wellness must always be a top priority, and during my five years in the office I have gained a fluent understanding of the employer’s responsibility and the complexities of their Duty to Accommodate. I have worked hard to build positive communications with district health services in an effort to strengthen the efficacy of the accommodations process, and I will continue to enforce members’ rights where immediate access to leaves and much needed accommodations will make a significant impact for your work-life balance.
In the past few years there has been a sharp increase in incidents of violence in the workplace, and untenable working conditions. Members have sustained not only physical injuries, but also injury to their mental health, and we know that there has been a steep increase in these types of claims across the education sector. In light of this, it is now more important than ever to continue providing clarity and strong advocacy for members as they move through the WorkSafe process seeking to be made whole.
Through my in-depth work on the BCTF Income Security Committee over the past five years I have gained a strong appreciation of our Salary Indemnity Plan, and through liaison with the plan Administrator and case managers I will continue to bring voice to our local needs, and also support members as they navigate the claims process to access short-term and long-term disability benefits.
I have also networked for five years with the BCTF Health and Wellness program, providing members with personalized support for access to integral healthcare treatment and return-to-work plans.
I would very much like to continue this rewarding union work in the upcoming year, and I respectfully ask for your support for re-election in my final year as Accommodations Support Officer.
Local & Provincial Experience:
• STA Bargaining
• STA Convention
• STA H&S
• STA Pro-D
• STA Finance
• STA Peer Support
• STA Executive
• STA Grievance
• STA Awards
• BCTF Income Security Committee
• BCTF Finance Committee
• BCTF Facilitator
• BCFED Mental Health First Aid
• BCFED Violence in the Workplace
• SD Joint Learning Liaison Committee
• SD Joint Wellness Committee
• SD Joint Accessibility Advisory Committee
• SD Joint EFAP Review
Please see submission for Grievance Officer
Please see submission for Grievance Officer
My name is Priya Moodley and I identify as a teacher of colour. I’m submitting my name for the position of Professional Services Table Officer. I acknowledge the land on which I learn, unlearn and relearn are the stolen, shared, traditional, ancestral and unceded territories of the Katzie, Kwantlen, Semiahmoo and other Coast Salish Peoples. I acknowledge my privilege in being able to freely access the resources while many Indigenous communities struggle to get their basic needs met. I am committed to equity and justice for all. I teach and fight for all my students in my class, present and past so that their future is a socially equitable one. We need to stand up against racism in our profession and fight for our students who experience racism in our schools.
I moved to Canada at the age of 16 from South Africa and enrolled at a high school in South Surrey. I experienced racism on my very first day, when a teacher told me that I needed to change the way I spoke because they couldn’t understand me. It was this one sentence that stuck with me all the way through my undergraduate degree and into my Bachelor’s of Education. I became an educator to ensure that students from anywhere in the world would feel safe and comfortable in my classroom and that I was a safe person for them to go to. I didn’t have a safe person to go to when I was in school, but I strive to be that safe person for my students. I continue to address the concerns and inequitable practice of police in schools, as I had a first hand experience of what they can do to our vulnerable students and teachers.
As a teacher in their first 10 years of teaching, being involved in the union is important as there are decisions being made that affect me, my colleagues and students in our classroom.
The year the pandemic hit, I decided to put my name forward to work on a project called the BCTF Issues on Racisms with more experienced members around the lower mainland. This started my journey of being involved in the union as I joined the Members of the Global Majority committee to find support from other BIPOC colleagues to deal with racism. I am a part of the Anti-Racism district program. I am currently the staff representative for my colleagues at Forsyth Road Elementary. Also, I am one of the local representatives to the BCTF for the 2023/2024 school year. I attended my second BCTF AGM during spring break where I saw the immense power I hold with voting and being a racialized member in the biggest district in BC. I am putting my name forward for Professional Services because I once looked to the STA for support for mediation and was left feeling hurt and traumatized. Since then, it has been my mission to stand up and speak out against racism for myself and my students.
Please see submission for Grievance Officer
As a candidate to support teachers in Surrey, I am committed to serving and working alongside my colleagues with integrity, empathy, and dedication. With over 15 years of teaching experience in Surrey, I have always aimed to support the work of educators so we can see students in Surrey thrive. My teaching experience is paired with extensive post secondary education from UBC in the Masters and Doctoral (in progress) programs in Educational Leadership, and a Post Baccalaureate degree in Human Resources Management to become a Chartered Professional in Human Resource Management (CPHR), where I support the work of others in leadership, talent management and team building through consulting work.
My vision is one of progress, inclusivity, and collaboration. If selected, I will work to address the pressing issues we face in education that continue to put hurdles in front of teachers and the work we do each and everyday. I strongly believe our district needs to make changes so the voices of those who are so often marginalized are no longer ignored.
I believe in transparency, accountability, and active engagement. I will carry these beliefs forward in the work I do for and with teachers in Surrey. Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient, and supportive future for our teachers in Surrey. I will aim to create positive change by listening to your concerns, advocating for your needs, and fostering an environment where everyone’s voice is heard and new voices are welcomed.
Thank you for your trust and support.
Sincerely,
Rob Purewall
Hello colleagues,
I appreciate your support to continue serving in the role of Professional Support Services Officer of the STA.
I believe the work supporting members and addressing their needs should be at the forefront of the services the STA provides. The STA membership is diverse and the needs of our members are growing, so the services of our union need to grow with them. I am committed to stewarding the changes needed in the way services are delivered. I will continue to listen empathetically, with care and patience, as I assist members to find the services and processes that will work for them.
The challenges and complexity of teaching continue to increase, and the requests for member to member support programs continue to grow. I have worked to support teachers’ professional practice through the development of the Peer Support and Mentorship programs. I have defended the importance of providing support to new-to-role teachers, new to district teachers, and new teachers. I have collaborated with the district on mentorship, and will continue to strongly advocate for increased funding for mentorship programs. I will continue to advocate with the district for increased time for members to work supporting each other.
I hear the concerns our teachers have about ever-expanding workloads, and will commit to safeguarding our collective agreement rights. Professional rights, professional autonomy, and fair and transparent processes are top priorities for me to advocate for members in all stages of their careers.
I enjoy working directly for teachers, and in working to improve their working conditions. I am humbled by the dedication, passion and time that so many members give to assist their colleagues and to make our local better.
Thank you for your consideration,
Pauline Veto
STA and BCTF Experience
• STA Professional Support Services Officer (2022 – present)
• STA Finance Committee (2017 – present)
• STA Status of Women Committee (2019 – present)
• STA Bargaining Committee (2020 – present)
• STA Grievance Committee (2020 – present)
• STA Secretary-Treasurer, Executive Committee (2017 – 2019)
• STA Political Action/Public Relations Committee Member (2015 – 2023)
• STARA Steering Committee (2020 – 2022)
• STA Resolutions Committee
• STA School Staff Representative
• School Staff Committee Chair & Member
• School Health & Safety Committee Member
• BCTF Finance Committee Member
• BCTF Workshop Facilitator – Professional & Social Issues
• BCTF Political Action Contact
• Local Representative to the BCTF
• Local delegate to the BCTF AGM
As your Professional Development Officer, I’ve dedicated myself to upholding our autonomy in professional learning. It has been a privilege to serve in this capacity over the past five years. Assisting teachers with their professional development and navigating complex issues in our field has been deeply fulfilling. Witnessing the creation of numerous high-quality professional development activities by fellow teachers has reinforced our ability to identify our own needs.
My primary goal has always been the advancement of our profession. I’ve been steadfast in defending our hard-won rights, including professional development and autonomy. Leading negotiations for new job share agreements and advocating for the rights of job share partners have been among my endeavors. Under my leadership, the STA ProD committee has been strengthened, comprehensive training for ProD representatives provided, and a handbook developed to support the formation of local specialist associations.
On a provincial level, I’ve facilitated BCTF ProD Rep workshops, contributed to workshop revisions, and played a role in developing the BCTF Professional Autonomy workshop. My involvement with the BCTF Professional Issues Advisory Committee has further honed my ability to advocate for our STA members.
While this has been a rewarding journey, I must share that this year marks my last term if elected to serve in this capacity. Despite this, my commitment to promoting teachers’ professional development and safeguarding our autonomy over learning remains unwavering. As we face challenges such as declining resources and increased workloads, it is imperative that professional development remains fully supported. Our ability to adapt our practices to address evolving challenges relies on robust professional development opportunities.
I am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me by electing me to this position. Serving Surrey teachers has been a privilege, and I am committed to making the most of this final year. Our unwavering dedication to our students is reflected in our history, and I am honoured to contribute to this legacy as your Professional Development Officer.
Experience on a BCTF or Local Committees:
• STA Professional Development Officer (2018- Present)
• BCTF Professional Issues Advisory Committee: (2021- present)
• BCTF New Teachers’ Conference Facilitator 2022 & 2023
• BCTF Zones Facilitator 2021-presebt
• BCTF Summer Institute 2019- present
• BCTF Leadership Institute November 2019-present
• STA Bargaining Committee (2018- present)
• STA Convention Committee (2016 – present)
• STA Professional Development Committee (2016 – present)
• STA Grievance Committee (2016- present)
• STA Executive Committee Member at Large (2016 – 2018)
• STA Status of Women Committee (2014-2016)
Please see submission for Grievance Officer
Please see submission for Professional Support Services Officer
No submissions at this time
My name is Marilyn Carr, and I’m running for the position of STA Local Representative to the BCTF. Over the last fifteen years, I have taught in classrooms ranging from kindergarten to grade 12, as well as in specialist positions such as a French as a Second Language prep teacher in grades 5 to 7, a Learning Support and ELL Teacher in grades 8 to 12, and a Teacher-Librarian in a dual track elementary school. I have seen the challenge of having to do so much with so little while working in inner-city schools for most of my teaching career.
Over the past four years, I have represented Surrey Teachers as a Member at Large, a member of the Resolutions Committee, and now a Local Representative to the BCTF.
During this time, I’ve stepped up to advocate for Surrey teachers and teachers around our province through the following initiatives:
My union work has instilled in me the value of collective representation and allyship. I firmly believe that every student deserves the best chance to prosper in our schools. As your representative, I will tirelessly advocate for our members, ensuring they have the support and resources they need to deliver on this promise. I will champion policies that prioritize student well-being and foster a collaborative environment with local officials to enhance our working and learning conditions.
Please see submission for Second Vice-President
I am a settler, an uninvited guest who lives and works on the traditional, unceded and stolen ancestral territory of the Coast Salish peoples: the q̓ic̓əy̓ (Katzie), the q̓ʷɑ:n̓ƛ̓ən̓ (Kwantlen), the Máthxwi (Matsqui) and the se’mya’me (Semiahmoo) First Nations, stewards of the land since time immemorial.
As a seasoned educator and passionate advocate for teachers’ rights and well-being, I am asking for your support as I run for the STA Executive position of Local Representative to the BCTF. With over fifteen years of experience in the education sector, including roles as a “prep” teacher, classroom teacher, and teacher-librarian, I bring a wealth of knowledge, dedication, and compassion to the table.
I am committed to elevating and alleviating the pressures faced by teachers. I have a track record of actively addressing challenges and advocating for meaningful change. Understanding the increasing workload and the delicate balance between social activism and teacher advocacy makes me a strong voice for Surrey teachers. Moreover, my educational background, including a Masters of Education in Justice, Law, and Ethics in Education from SFU, equips me with the necessary skills and insights to navigate complex issues and drive positive outcomes for teachers and students alike.
My leadership roles, such as serving as president of the Surrey Chapter of the BCTLA, chair of the STA Pro-D committee, staff rep, and STA member-at-large, demonstrate my proactive approach and ability to effect change at various levels within the education system. I am a committed committee member, a team player who shows up and does the work to ensure words are put into actions.
I am not just a dedicated professional but also a lifelong learner and a passionate advocate for creating safe, inclusive spaces for everyone. My colleagues describe me as dedicated, sincere, knowledgeable, diligent, and organized — all qualities that make me an exemplary candidate for the role of Local Representative.
In conclusion, I urge you to vote for me to represent Surrey teachers. With my experience, expertise, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of our education system, I will undoubtedly make a positive impact and ensure that teachers’ voices are heard and valued at the STA and BCTF.
Select Experience
• Professional Development Committee since 2018
• Focus Day sub-committee since 2018
• Surrey Chapter of the BCTLA president since 2021
• School STA rep since 2022
• Surrey delegate to the BCTF AGM 2020 – 2024
• STA Executive, Member at Large 2023/2024
Please see submission for Professional Support Services Officer
Hello colleagues. I’m Annie Ohana a settler on the Unceded Ancestral Coast Salish Territories and am a White-passing Sephardic Jewish racialized Queer educator.
Now more than ever, the teaching profession is under attack from a lack of long term institutional vision that has led to teacher shortages, a push for privatization that leads to an almost shock doctrine dedication of starving our education systems, and ever worse working conditions. We continue to see a government prepared to undercut workers rights at every turn, unwilling ton negotiate workplace conditions, and willfully reckless to learning conditions. We also see vitriolic, and threatening attacks against all teachers that believe education is liberation. Our entire curriculum, pedagogy, and dedication to inclusive education is being maligned and lied about. We need strong voices and open ears to represent our membership at all governance bodies and as union family who should feel comfortable bringing forward issues.
I humbly put my name forward for a 6th term as LR wide breadth and depth of experience and anti oppressions lenses that protect all members.
We must actively maintain strong avenues of dialogue and see structures developed that support lived experience and intersectional identities.
Let us continue establishing strong policies protecting us from wanton district overreach that is destroying our CA.
We need to build capacity for our IBWOC who face discrimination and marginalization and continue decolonizing our structures to bring equitable, safe, and purposeful moves of true reconciliation and justice .
Wellness and safety must be nuanced and address critical problems seen at all workplace.
We must continue being financially prudent with members dues and focus on long term security of our association.
We must seek equity and equality for our adult educators, Specialist teachers, teacher librarians, and many more specified roles that continue to suffer the most.
I have never been and never am afraid of tough conversations, and open dialogue about how we protect the interests of our members. Governance structures need to be flexible and responsive to its members. I hope to be to continue to be a voice in every and all rooms, that speaks with nuance yet strength, collaboration yet strong will, the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health of our members is paramount.
I hope you see yourself in myself as one of your LRs.
• 2017-2024 Local Representative
• 10 AGMS as elected delegate
• 13-year STA & SJ Rep at LA Matheson.
• Numerous years on Cmtes: Indigenous Education, Economic Justice, Environmental Justice, Status of Women, International Solidarity, Convention, 2SLGBTQ+. Defence of Human Rights
• Maximum 6-year term on BCTF Committee for Action on Social Justice and ending 3rd year of WR Long International Solidarity (hoping to continue)
• Professional Development Workshop Developer
• Anti-Oppression Curriculum Specialist – M.Ed in Equity Studies
• Community Organizer working with Anti-Oppression Groups
• Curriculums Specialist on projects to include International Humanitarian Law with Red Cross, Erasure of IBPOC voices from historical narratives, Teacher Guides, media spokesperson for various boards.
Please see submission for Grievance Officer
Please see submission for Professional Support Services Officer
Please see submission for Second Vice-President
There are three things I love in life: ice-cream, sports, and teaching. However time has not been kind. My ever increasing lactose intolerance, my body’s consistent injury-prone state, and our rapidly declining education system have all resulted in my need to tackle these issues head on.
Sometimes, we can’t see our way out of tough situations. But, much like rebuilding enzymes to enjoy ice cream, we can take steps to improve our education system. My time spent as a Staff Rep, Committee Member, as well as BCTF Delegate have given me incredible insight into what issues we face, and the future we are all fighting for. Listening to my colleagues, it is apparent to me that the most pressing issues I regularly hear are concerns around class-size and composition, and failure to fills. These are the issues that need to be at the bargaining table.
I have seen countless times the willingness of teachers to go well beyond their job description to ensure that our education system continues to function. I have participated in, and directly benefited from my peers stepping up. This is not sustainable.
Although I am a teacher at the start of his career, I am not a newcomer for advocating for my colleagues. Mentorship, collaboration, and community all play key roles in the longevity of a career. I continually hear from new teachers their desire for mentorship and a sense of belonging within this profession. I’m committed to helping bridge this divide and I believe as a union we are at the forefront of providing these spaces for our members.
Much like my extended warmups allow me to fully participate in physical activity, the experiences I’ve gained engaging with Surrey members have equipped me to be a local representative.
Together we can continue to create a better future (and eat ice cream).
Hello, my name is Corrie Shaw and I would like to first acknowledge that I live, work, and play on the unceded land of the Katzie, Kwantlen, and Semiahmoo First Nations and they have been the thoughtful and respectful stewards of this land since time immemorial.
I have been teaching in Surrey for 26 years in both classroom and LST positions and in a variety of age groups from K-12. I completed my Master’s in Education and Educational Leadership and have experience in leadership roles such as chairing Staff Committee, School Based Team, and Health and Safety. Being part of Surrey Teacher’s Association since 1998, I have experienced several contract disputes firsthand and been a part of the on-going struggle to fight for teaching and learning conditions that benefit students and teachers, as teacher’s working conditions truly are student’s learning conditions. We have all noticed the increasing needs in our classrooms and schools and the decrease in both funding, supports, and resources available to teachers and students.
For several years, I have served as a Staff Union Rep at my current school and advocate for teachers who are working tirelessly to plug the holes in the system with their own time, money, energy, passion, and love for the profession. I have also heard from experienced and new teachers express that they are unsure how long they can continue to teach in the current system that is stretched, stressed, and underfunded. This has led me to get further involved in advocating for teachers and students in my school and recently for the district and province as a Surrey delegate at this years BCTF AGM. I found the 4 days over spring break an amazing learning experience. Listening to teachers advocate for colleagues, students, and the whole public education system was energizing and inspiring. When I moved a motion, I felt a sense of solidarity from other teachers, that I have not felt in recent years. Through lively and respectful debate, I learned that teachers from around the province are looking to make a positive difference for students and teachers in our schools.
I would like to get further involved in advocating for teachers and students in our district. I am someone who listens well, forms educated opinions, and works well with others to problem solve and create plans of actions to implement change. I speak up for teachers and students in the public education system that needs improved funding, supports, and resources. The AGM helped renew my interest in the union and the power we can have as a collective. I am a life-long learner and look forward to gaining further skills in my new role to continue to fight for the teachers in our district.
I am humbled and honoured to work in the profession of teaching and in my union role. Thanks for reading this statement and considering me for the role of representative. I am happy to connect with anyone having further questions or comments.
No submissions at this time
Éy Swayél Colleagues,
I am excited to run for the position of Member at Large for the first time for the 2024-2025 school year. Recently, I have had the opportunity to get more involved in understanding how our union works and the power it can have. As an experienced teacher, I have witnessed many frustrating situations that effect teachers and students, resulting in me questioning how to bring change to this.
I signed up for Staff Representative and Racial Equity Lead hoping that these roles would allow me to do that work, listening to others, and what their experience has been, then bringing this forward to the changemakers. This work has given me the insight to where gaps exist. I would like to continue that work and represent you and your needs to the larger body where change can truly happen.
I have gained so much knowledge and understanding in my recent position as Secretary-Treasurer. With this potential platform, I hope to open doors and amplify YOUR voices.
Am I new to this? Yes, but that is exactly what brings me to asking the questions that we all want answers to and brainstorming out of the box solutions.
Recent Advocacy Opportunities:
• Secretary-Treasurer
• AGM delegate
• STA Representative
• Racial Equity Lead
• Various Committees
Please see submission for Professional Support Services Officer
It has been my privilege to hold the position of Member at Large designated for an Aboriginal Member this last year. I intend to put my name forward once again for this role with the intention of serving all our members in furthering Truth and Reconciliation within our Association. I have keen insight into the depth and breadth of this position from past experience and hope to continue the good work I have started. I believe the Executive will benefit from my voice at the table. Thank you for all your support past and present.
Please see submission for Local Representative to the BCTF
Please see submission for Grievance Officer
Please see submission for Local Representative to the BCTF
Please see submission for Member-at-Large (designated for Member of Colour)
Please see submission for Grievance Officer
Please see submission for Professional Support Services Officer
Advocacy, Representation, and Equity.
I am requesting your support to represent you as Member at Large for another year on the STA Executive Committee. My commitment to a fully funded public education system, and ensuring that our provincial and local collective agreements are adhered to, is evident in my resolute advocacy at the BCTF and STA Executive committee tables. My diverse teaching background in elementary, secondary, Learning Support, ELL, Special Education, and Inclusive Education, along with my experience advocating for Surrey teachers and teachers across the province, indicates my commitment to this work and my ability to voice your concerns.
I communicate regularly with colleagues about the recruitment and retention issue which is the catalyst for the current teacher shortage, causing a ripple effect in the system. Remedy is not working and has to go! These systemic challenges need to be addressed before they get any worse.
If you elect me to represent you, I will continue to support causes that I know Surrey teachers feel strongly about such as better working conditions, anti-racism, 2SLGBTQIA+ rights, equitable access to education for all students, defending the collective agreement, climate justice, and an unwavering support for teachers who are harassed when they teach social justice curricular content that relate to the B.C. Human Rights Code.
I will continue to work collaboratively with the STA Executive Committee to defend public education, professional autonomy, and the health and safety of teachers. I remain steadfast in the rallying cry for fully funded schools staffed with sufficient certified teachers who can be responsive to the needs of their students.
I bring 18 years of experience teaching in Surrey and five years of union work in varying roles to the Member at Large position. I also bring much-needed intersectional representation to reflect the diversity of our membership. As a colleague, I bring a passion for this work, relational care, and the tireless motivation to advocate for public education.
UNION LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE
Provincial:
• BCTF Executive Committee–Member at Large 2023-2025
• BCTF Executive Committee Liaison to Vancouver Island North 2023-2025
• BCTF Executive Committee Liaison to the BCTF Finance Advisory Committee 2023-2025
• BCTF Representative to the Federal Government Lobby Day on Indigenous Rights 2023 in Ottawa
• Delegate, BCTF AGM, Representative Assembly, and Bargaining Conference and Training 2020-2024
• BCTF Facilitator Professional and Social Issues 2021-2023
• Professional Specialist Association Member, Anti-Oppression Educators Collective 2021-present
• BCTF Professional Specialist Association Member, Learning Assistance Teachers, 2022-present
• BCTF Professional Specialist Association Member, Teachers of Speakers of Other Languages, 2022-present
• BCTF Delegate, Canadian Teacher Federation AGM, Ottawa 2023
• BCTF Delegate Tri-National Conference, Oaxaca, Mexico 2022
Local:
• STA Executive Committee designated for a Member of Colour 2021-present
• Staff Representative -2018-present
• Local Representative to the BCTF 2020-2023
• Local Social Justice Contact to the BCTF 2019-2023
STA Committees:
• International Solidarity,
• Environmental Justice,
• PA/PR,
• Members of the Global Majority
Website: http://www.marilynbctf.ca
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarilynRickettsLindsay
Please see submission for Second Vice-President
Please see submission for Local Representative to the BCTF
My name is Christy Van Ieperen and I am running for Member at Large. I have served our union as a staff rep, an AGM delegate, a BCFED delegate, as well as been on committees such as Status of Women, Resolutions and currently on the STARA Steering committee. As an early primary teacher I have experience teaching pre-, during and post Covid (18 years). I am also a trained Teacher Librarian which gives me a unique school wide lens. I have seen and heard the frustrations and struggles of my colleagues and I want to be an advocate for change. I have felt that there is little representation of the early primary voice in our union and I would like to change that. I am also passionate about member engagement. I love the diversity of our voices and will advocate for all members to be heard.
No submissions at this time
Please see submission for Second Vice-President
Please see submission for Grievance Officer
Please see submission for Second Vice-President
As an early-career teacher who works with our most vulnerable and at-risk students in an alternative setting, I offer a unique perspective on the issues facing a subset of our membership that is seldom represented. Additionally, I have experience as a non-enrolling teacher and work as a TTOC one day a week. This diverse experience, combined with my keen interest and passion for policy and procedure, make me an asset in supporting our membership to bring forward resolutions to the AGM. I pride myself on approaching issues with objectivity and without personal agenda. Furthermore, I have attended the last four AGMs and served as a staff representative for the past five years, encompassing my entire tenure as a teacher. Thank you and I hope you consider me for the 2024/25 Resolutions Committee.
Please see submission for Member-at-Large (designated for Member of Colour)
I grew up on the unceded traditional territory of the Syilx and Okanagan peoples. From a young age, I learned quickly that school was not a safe place for BIPOC and queer kids who were the targets of racist and prejudiced harassment, bullying, and physical harm. I grew up as a fearful queer kid rejected by working class family and vilified by society. I found an outlet in reading whereby I eventually began learning about my identity through readings about LGBTQ people in history. I had to learn about and dispel the myths surrounding my sexuality on my own.
In 1985, I sent an article to my local Kelowna newspaper arguing the importance of LGBTQ people being portrayed positively. The article was cut in half and marginalized as an “opinion piece”. Undeterred I marched in my first Pride Parade alongside political activists in 1985 when our Parades were very political and less driven by commercial interests. I had come out when society blamed our community for the AIDS pandemic with taunts like “Got AIDS Yet?”.
While attending university, friends and activists were dying from AIDS. In the 90’s I wrote social justice articles for my university and local queer press. Inspired to bring social justice into the classroom, I entered the UBC BEd S.S. program in 1998. Though disheartened by the grave systemic prejudice I experienced during my practicum I was given hope by Professor Roman who taught about systemic prejudice, intersectionality, and colonialism.
When I first began teaching in our public school system both book banning and a prominent high school student suicide weighed heavy on my conscience. I used our PLO’s and textbooks to combat racism and prejudice by teaching social justice to high school and elementary students. I participated in a 2-week province-wide strike where we demanded an improved contract and working conditions and smaller class sizes for teachers. Over the years I have been both Social Justice Rep and STA Rep. As STA Rep I’ve advocated for professional autonomy and teacher’s rights through our collective agreement. In 2012, in response to unacceptable employer demands, my teaching colleagues and I began a Year of Joyful Teaching. In 2014, we returned to picket lines once again.
I’ve always believed in taking social justice to the streets. In 2016 I marched in the first of many BLM protests and rallies I would attend. I marched in Vancouver’s first and subsequent Cancel Canada Day Protests to honour Indigenous lives lost at the hands of the Canadian government including the residential school system. I’ve marched in Climate rallies and shaken hands with our local and national hero David Suzuki. At our recent BCTF 2024 AGM I voted in favour of every Surrey resolution. After the AGM I participated in the VCC March 21 International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination and a Free Palestine Rally on March 23. My partner and I will be celebrating our Silver Jubilee this year with his family in his hometown in Taiwan.
I recently had the opportunity to attend the BCTF AGM for the first time in my career. It was a bit overwhelming, but I learned so much at this event. I want to be able to be more involved next year, so I would like to be a part of the Resolutions Committee in order to be able to help shape what is brought forward next time. I have been teaching almost 30 years and most of my career has been as an LST teacher. I know first hand the difficulties and challenges of these positions. I would like to help advocate for positive changes in these teaching positions as well as in the teaching profession overall. Thank you.
I am interested in being on the Resolutions Committee for 2024/2025.
Please see submission for Professional Support Services Officer
Please see submission for Grievance Officer
Please see submission for Local Representative to the BCTF
I enjoyed the AGM. I’d like to be considered for the resolutions committee. I’m very interested in helping revise, edit and improve resolutions. Especially in areas that effect Elementary teachers, in the classroom and in LST and IST.
I enjoyed working on a resolution and presenting it at the AGM.
