The Editor,
I am writing this letter to express my support for the striking support workers in the South East Cornerstone Public School Division. I worked in the division, first with Estevan Rural and then with South East Cornerstone, for 30 years and retired two years ago. I can only say that I am 100 per cent behind the support staff. I had a long letter drafted with facts and information about fair wages, teachers working in support staff positions, etc., but the bottom line is that these workers deserve a fair increase.
The public needs to stand behind the support staff worker and show their support. I encourage you to write or phone the division office to let them know that these workers are worth the increase that they are seeking. They are, after all, working with your children whether it is in the classroom, driving them to school, making a meal, working at the front desk, or making sure the environment they are in is safe and clean. Or maybe call the board member that you voted for to represent you and your children, and let them know how you feel. Remember, they are getting paid to make these decisions for you.
I have heard a lot of praise for the people and business that have come out to support the workers. Keep it up!
I hope at the time when this letter is published that both sides are back to talking or that an agreement has been reached.
A fair wage is not a luxury but a right!
Ramona Dukart
Retired EA and SLA
