Re: Have candidates really done their homework? (Chilliwack Progress, Nov. 26)
While I appreciate that you highlighted some of the school district’s existing and successful apprenticeship and employment-oriented programs, I think that you may have overreacted.
If Dan Coulter and the other candidates want to focus on these as areas for improvement, that doesn’t mean that they are automatically unaware or derisive of what is already working in the district. I applaud Mr. Coulter for actually stating what his priorities are instead of mumbling in agreement or running on the “Everything’s Fine” platform. Would you heap as much scorn on someone pushing for more information technology training or improving physical fitness, pointing out the IT programs, plentiful computers, and ample access to extracurricular sports already in place?
Also, no one trustee would be able to enact an International Baccalaureate program. If the majority of the school board really wanted to start one, they would have to find additional revenue or cut expenditures elsewhere, just as they would with any other new or expanded program.
Mark Jackson
Secondary School Apprenticeship program graduate, 2000