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| Backgrounder(s) & FactSheet(s): | Backgrounder |
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| Backgrounder(s) & FactSheet(s): | Backgrounder |
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VICTORIA – The B.C. College of Teachers will become more responsive to the public under amendments to the Teaching Profession Act introduced in the legislature today by Education Minister Christy Clark.
“Our government committed in the throne speech to amend the Teaching Profession Act to enhance accountability and administrative efficiency while clarifying the role of the B.C. College of Teachers,” Clark said. “Parents have clearly indicated they want greater input into how the college oversees teacher conduct.
“At present, there is no mechanism for the public to directly make a complaint to the college regarding a teacher’s conduct. The changes we’re making will ensure greater input for parents, including the right to directly raise concerns about teacher misconduct. These changes will help increase public confidence in teacher competency and the education system.”
In addition to creating a process for the public to lodge written complaints, the new legislation requires the college to prepare an annual report that includes a statement on teacher competence, as well as financial and administrative details.
The legislation also changes the structure of the college’s governing council to ensure a broader range of representation. Previously, the 20-member council was made up of 15 teachers and five members of the public. Under the new legislation, the council will consist of 12 members of the public and education partners, and eight teachers.
“The public was poorly represented on the college council under the previous structure,” Clark said. “Now, the council will have representation not only from teachers, but also the public, parents and other education partners.”
As well, the legislation will help resolve confusion concerning the college’s involvement in approving post-secondary teacher education programs.
The College of Teachers was created in 1987 as a self-regulating body responsible for establishing standards for teacher education, certification, discipline and competence of its members.
“Government is acting on its New Era commitment to provide a top-notch education for all B.C. students,” said Clark. “We will continue to focus on improving student achievement by increasing accountability in the system, enhancing choice and encouraging parental involvement.”
This news release and backgrounder are at www.bced.gov.bc.ca/news.htm online.
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