In a recent Province column, Jon Ferry discusses Thomas Fleming’s book A World Apart. According to Ferry, Fleming claims that “our overly politicized school system is rudderless, leaderless and essentially broken.”
Other quotes in the article are equally scathing, mostly regarding the conflict between the Education Ministry, the BCSTA, and the BCTF.
Certainly, if all one did to gather information was to follow the news, this viewpoint might be seen as having some validity–but only if one does not spend any time in public schools.
While I would agree that the frequent negativity and bickering from the “higher ups” is unproductive and, frankly, immature, our public schools continue to offer exceptional, world class education for our children. We are consistently seen as having one of the best public school systems in the world.
As a parent and a trustee I am both excited and proud of our public schools on the Sunshine Coast.
Something definitely needs to change within the politicized realm of public education, but, fortunately “on the ground” our public schools remain vibrant, amazing places that offer the best educational experiences available!
Jason Scott: confessions of a self hating politician 
Hmmm… I’m currently reading this book! It’s very good. Fleming is an academic, and sets a historical context for his argument that is compelling. He never really suggests that kids aren’t learning, though — his focus is definitely on the higher-ups. I think of the Pasi Sahlberg presentation we saw at BCSTA… Finland has an incredible system in part because of the trust among the major players and the central leadership and vision of the national government. We’re not strong in these areas! However from what was shared at Provincial Council on the weekend there’s definitely going to be a provincial push on the vision and leadership piece in the coming weeks. Seems like it could be doomed, though, when it is combined with major labour disputes, and no added funding. The trust factor is missing. But you are right that DESPITE the historical provincial problems that Fleming identifies, at the school level teachers, support staff and administrators still make sure the kids are offered an excellent education.
Thanks for the comment, Silas. I’ll have to borrow it when you’re done. I couldn’t actually find much information on the book or the author (other than what’s in the article), so I tried to keep the quotes to a minimum.
Looking forward to a new push provincially, there’s no reason why the leaders in education can’t work together, but it seems that, currently at least, they won’t. That’s where the trust comes in, and there needs to willing participants to work on a trusting relationship.