Immediate Action Required

In a bold move aimed at addressing safety concerns in Greater Victoria's public schools, Education Minister Lisa Beare has mandated the implementation of a district-wide safety plan by the start of the new term in January. Failure to comply could result in the dismissal of School District 61’s board of education.

Communication Breakdown

During a news conference on Friday, Beare emphasized the ongoing 'breakdown in relationships and communication' between the school board and various community agencies and rights holders. This situation has raised alarm bells, prompting urgent action to ensure that by the time students return, they can feel secure in their educational environment.

Appointment of Safety Advisor

To assist in the development of this critical safety plan, Beare has appointed Kevin Godden, a former Abbotsford school superintendent with 36 years of experience in public education. His role will be to help revise and enhance measures after the board took the controversial step of restricting police presence in schools, allowing officers only during emergencies.

Concerns Over Police Presence

Currently, the Greater Victoria School District serves approximately 20,000 students across 28 elementary schools, 10 middle schools, and seven secondary institutions, covering regions like Esquimalt, Oak Bay, and parts of Saanich and Highlands. The hesitance to involve law enforcement in schools comes amid rising apprehensions regarding gang activity and other forms of violence that have permeated the community.

Minister's Ultimatum

Beare stated, 'If the board fails to deliver an appropriate revised safety plan that I can approve, or if the board does not cooperate with the special adviser, I am willing to take any step necessary to ensure the safety of students and staff.'

Criticism from Law Enforcement

The situation has drawn criticism from local law enforcement. Victoria police Chief Del Manak has repeatedly voiced frustrations over the board's decision, fearing that it could exacerbate issues like gang recruitment in schools. Manak argued for the necessity of police presence as both a resource for educators and a preventative measure against escalating dangerous behaviors.

Community Concerns

'The challenges we see in our community—violence, threats, intimidation—are often mirrored within our school system,' Manak explained. He expressed support for Godden's appointment and stated a desire to work collaboratively in the formation of a viable school safety plan.

Previous Plans and Expert Opinions

In a previous attempt to address safety concerns, the school board's proposed plan garnered disapproval from the Ministry of Education after a comprehensive review. Expert Theresa Campbell, the founder of Safer Schools Together, highlighted that effective safety strategies should not only encourage collaboration with law enforcement but must also be explicitly defined in terms of safety protocols and processes.

Looking Ahead

With a backdrop of rising youth violence and community unease, the Ministry of Education is adamant that the new safety plan must address key issues, including gang activity and the need to foster a collaborative relationship between the board and local police. As the clock ticks toward January, the pressure mounts for a comprehensive solution that ensures the well-being of all students in the Greater Victoria area. Can the board rise to the occasion, or will Minister Beare take drastic actions?