There are a number of resources available for parents who have a concern with a teacher, staff member, or a school, and who want to address this concern in a productive manner.
School District 57:
The district lists their “GUIDELINES FOR RESOLVING PROBLEMS OR CONCERNS” here, which is an appendix to their Bylaw No. 4:
http://www.sd57.bc.ca/Lists/Publications/Guide_to_solving_problems.pdf
Their document starts off with:
- Ordinarily, start with the person whose decision has given rise to the concern or problem.
- Always give each step a chance to correct the problem before you proceed to the next step.
STEP 1 TEACHER/STAFF MEMBER The vast majority of problems and concerns are resolved by the person whose decision gave rise to the issue.
STEP 2 PRINCIPAL Make an appointment with the principal. The principal may include other staff members in the meeting as appropriate.
STEP 3 ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT Ask your principal for the name of the Assistant Superintendent for your school. The principal will usually advise you how to proceed.
STEP 4 SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS Let the Superintendent know what steps you have taken to date.
STEP 5 BOARD OF EDUCATION Present your case in writing, indicating the steps you have taken to resolve the problem. The Superintendent can give assistance.
STEP 6 STUDENT APPEALS BRANCH Section 11 of the School Act and BC Reg 24/08 allow appeals of decisions made by Boards of Education under specific circumstances. www.studentappeals.gov.bc.ca
BC Commissioner for Teacher Regulation:
Under the Teacher Act, members of the public may submit a written complaint to Commissioner for Teacher Regulation regarding the conduct or competency of a certified educator whom they believe has failed to maintain the Standards for educators in BC.
The following documents are a helpful guide to submitting a complaint – note that they require a person to attempt to resolve concerns with the educator, and then follow the district’s procedures before filing a complaint.
- https://www.bcteacherregulation.ca/documents/FormsandPublications/ProfConduct/mc_FAQ_tools.pdf
- https://www.bcteacherregulation.ca/documents/FormsandPublications/ProfConduct/raising_concerns_SA.pdf
BC Confederation of Parent Advisory Councils:
This resource is a very helpful, step-by-step guide to resolution advocacy for parents who want to become better advocates for their children. This guide gives information on:
- details on how the school system works,
- outlines parent and students rights and responsibilities,
- provides strategies for advocating for children, and
- supports student self-advocacy
http://www.bccpac.bc.ca/resources/speaking
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