We are all impacted by what is happening in the province, in Canada and around the world during this COVID-19 pandemic. We know that many of our members have concerns and questions about the state of emergency, particularly with respect to the continuation of the school year.
Although we do not have a precise answer at this time, you should know that your teams at the New Brunswick Teachers’ Federation (NBTF), the New Brunswick Teachers’ Association (NBTA), and the Association des enseignantes et des enseignants francophones du Nouveau-Brunswick (AEFNB) are mobilized and and are meeting every day in a virtual manner to share information and analyze issues related to the teaching profession, members’ working conditions, and the situation surrounding school closures. In addition, we are working to determine the necessary actions to implement in collaboration with authorities, in order to respond to your questions and needs as quickly as possible.
Rest assured that our efforts are focused on finding equitable and inclusive solutions for all teachers, all parents and all students in New Brunswick.
We communicate regularly with our partners (school districts and the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development) to ensure close collaboration and that the voice of teachers is heard.
The boards of directors of the NBTF, NBTA and AEFNB will hold virtual meetings on Wednesday, April 1, to discuss the next steps and processes to ensure that all partners work together and are able to make the necessary decisions for the future operations of each organization. As always, your teams are fully engaged and working hard to serve your interests and those of public education in the province.
We would like to take this opportunity to remind you of the importance of following the public health recommendations on social distancing and self-isolation measures. As teaching professionals, we are called upon, more than ever, to be role models for our students and for the population as a whole.
We are collectively facing a historic moment that reminds us of the importance of compassion, empathy and mutual support. These values are at the core of our professional commitment.
Let’s take care of ourselves, our loved ones, our families, our children, our elders, and our communities.
Let’s show solidarity in this collective effort for the future of New Brunswick.
Your Co-Presidents,
Rick Cuming and Gérald Arseneault