September 3, 2021
**This communiqué was sent to all NBTF Members via Email**
Communiqué – Concerns with Rapid Testing
The NBTF, the NBTA and AEFNB are monitoring the communication you are receiving from your employer and we are concerned by the lack of specific details and discrepancies with regards to the expectations for COVID-19 vaccination and testing.
Minister Cardy has failed to provide critical details and orientate districts and school staff in order to ensure an organized return to school, which is creating insecurity and uncertainty among our members.
Lack of Trust and Confidentiality
This approach to testing does not ensure confidentiality for school staff. Further, group testing happening in schools will lead to the unnecessary categorization of teachers.
Why does the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development not treat teachers and principals with the same autonomy, confidentiality, and dignity that is afforded to other government employees?
Why are unvaccinated teachers not allowed to self-test in the privacy of their home like other government employees?
Compromising School Climate
Principals are highly skilled pedagogical leaders who should be focused on students’ learning and wellbeing. They do not have expertise in the areas of administering and coordinating onsite testing and should not be tasked with these duties.
This approach will increase the responsibility of school administrators as it will require a constant rescheduling of duty rosters and implementing the newly-mandated operational requirements.
Why is medical testing not monitored and compiled by a third party provided by the Province of New Brunswick?
How will supply and itinerant teachers be supported in navigating these requirements?
What are the expectations for our members regarding vaccination compliance for parents, visitors, volunteers and service providers?
Lack of Respect
Teachers have always demonstrated professionalism, adaptability, and commitment to students and New Brunswick’s education system during the course of this pandemic. They expect to be treated respectfully by their employer.
As your Co-Presidents, we will continue to raise these issues with Minister Cardy.
| Connie Keating NBTF Co-President connie.keating@nbta.ca |
Nathalie Brideau Coprésidente de la FENB nathalie.brideau@aefnb.ca |