Picotalk Blog Compilation

Link: http://www.cbc.ca/canada/british-columbia/story/2006/10/02/school-fees.html

Someone finally had the gumption to put forth a challenge to the growing problem of public schools charging 'user fees' for materials, equipment and field trips. I remember what a challenge this issue was back when I was in school, during the tough financial times. What I remember most is the frustration and humiliation I felt being amongst the few kids in my class that weren't able to keep up with the jr. Jones's.

The first example that comes to mind is music. In grade 8 I joined the percussion section of the jr. band. Students were required to rent their own instruments, however due to the size and number of percussion instruments, the school provided these instruments within the classroom. You still needed to, at the least, have a practice pad at home to practice basic drumming.

The catch? Students were expected to take private lessons. It wasn't formally 'required', however, the band teacher made it clear that he did not teach percussion. If you wanted to do anything other than play the triangle or the wood block, you had to take lessons. In a nutshell, I learned nothing about music in school band class and ended up being kicked out of the class in grade 9 after a battle over the issue with the teacher.

This is a simple example of a 2 tiered public system. What is intended to give students a fair shot at an equal education falls short of the mark. If the public (that being all of us) feel that public education should be a fair and equal opportunity for all kids, this should not be the case. If the school system cannot afford to provide equal education and access to the instruments for all students then it may need to adjust the program to a limited scope that can be provided to all. Perhaps band class doesn't belong in the public school system?

I've always wondered about a policy where the public school system pays teachers to take students on optional field trips, most memorably things like ski trips. Ski trips are not free. You have to rent skis, pay for a lift ticket, provide goggles, hats, jackets, ski-pants, gloves etc. Not every student has access to all the gear and the funds required to participate in a ski trip and so they are left out. For those that are able to go, it's a great time and possibly even a good learning experience. For those left behind it can be a humiliating punishment.

I applaud Mr. John Young for launching this suit on behalf of the people of this problem. There are those that accuse him of tearing down the school system and limiting the schools ability to provide quality education. This is not the issue, nor will it be the result. Mr. Young is standing up for those whom cannot afford the extras. He stands up for those that believe in a system that does not prejudice those with less income. As a parent with children about to enter the school system, I hope he is successful in creating a change that provides fair access to education for all students in the public system.

Private schools charge fees for students. Public schools should not, and most importantly, public funds (taxes) should not be used for private education.

Mickael Maddison