Rudolf K. F. Zeitlhofer
Dear sir:
It is not often that reading an article in the Fort Frances Times brings forth a feeling of utter astonishment yet “OSSTF, school board still at odds” (Feb. 10) managed to do just that.
I am not at all surprised that so many teachers came out to protest against the school board. What is astonishing is the reaction of the board.
Dianne McCormack, the chair of the Rainy River District School Board, was quoted as saying that “We value, celebrate, and respect all teachers for what they can and do achieve. . . .”
I worked for this board while Ms. McCormack was a trustee. I am astonished she would say that. It is simply not true.
The article cites Michael Lewis, the past chair of the school board and now vice-chair, as “admitting he’s not quite sure what to make of the picketing or the sit-in that occurred.”
Under Mr. Lewis’ leadership, the school board repeatedly and arrogantly violated the contract with the teachers accumulating nearly 50 grievances. It is astonishing that he doesn’t know why they are angry at that behaviour.
It is obvious that something is seriously wrong with the relationship of the school board and its employees. It is not just teachers that are disgusted with its behaviour. It is astonishing that the leadership of the board doesn’t seem to know what the problem is.
And equally astonishing, they apparently have no intention of finding what that is.
What should be upsetting to everyone is that it is students who are truly short-changed by this whole situation.
I have said repeatedly that the interests of the students should be the priority for this board. Everyone should be astonished that it isn’t.
Yours truly,
Rudolf K. F. Zeitlhofer
Fort Frances, Ont.
