By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
At its Nov. 26 meeting, the Eastern Townships School Board (ETSB) discussed a range of pressing topics, focusing on staff accommodations, infrastructure upgrades, and educational initiatives. Chaired by Michael Murray, the meeting highlighted the board’s efforts to strengthen its connection with schools, address operational challenges, and enhance opportunities for students and staff.
Workplace accessibility and accommodations
Concerns over workplace accommodations for teachers with disabilities took centre stage during the meeting. Linda Mireault, a teacher at Sutton Elementary School, voiced frustration with delays in addressing requests for adjustments. “Teachers are coming to us saying that they’re finding the board a lot less understanding and caring about these situations than they had been in the past,” she said. Mireault explained that simple accommodations, such as being excused from outdoor duties due to injury, were taking months to process.
She added that some teachers felt they were being encouraged to take salary insurance instead of being accommodated. The board acknowledged the complexity of the issue and pledged to refer it to its Human Resources department for review and improvement.
Mental health and wellness
The importance of mental health and wellness for staff was another significant focus. Mireault emphasized the need for a renewed collaboration between the board and the union to support wellness initiatives. She noted that some efforts to promote mental health had been deprioritized. Murray assured attendees that the board recognized the need for action. “We too are concerned with the health and well-being of our staff, without whom nothing happens,” he stated.
Community engagement and recognition
Building stronger connections between the ETSB administration and its schools emerged as a key theme. Mireault called for more frequent visits by board representatives, noting the positive impact such interactions can have. She recalled a previous visit by an ETSB representative: “It really had a positive impact, not only for me but for the children.”
Commissioner Joy Humenuik suggested expanding the board’s efforts to recognize school activities, such as Terry Fox runs and Remembrance Day ceremonies. “It would be nice if we could hear from all the schools and not just recognize one or two because some of them are doing all kinds of great things,” she said. The board agreed to improve communication to ensure all schools’ efforts are acknowledged.
Budget adjustments and infrastructure improvements
The board approved several budget allocations for ongoing infrastructure projects. These included $40,493 to complete water distribution repairs at Parkview Elementary, bringing the total project cost to $221,038. The electrification of school bus fleets at Princess Elizabeth and Sunnyside elementary schools also moved forward, with a $1.69 million investment. This project, part of a provincial mandate to reduce emissions, includes the installation of charging stations for buses and vehicles.
Murray noted the increasing costs of such projects but underscored their importance. “These investments ensure our facilities meet the needs of students and staff while supporting sustainability goals,” he said.
Educational and vocational training initiatives
The ETSB approved a request to add vocational training programs in retail butchery, medical secretarial studies, and legal secretarial studies. These programs aim to equip participants with practical skills and meet regional workforce demands. The butchery program, in particular, has strong local relevance. Murray highlighted its service to the community, noting, “The retail butchery operation in our Cowansville Centre offers a service to butcher deer harvested by hunters in the area, and they do a very nice job.”
Supporting teachers and staff
Teacher retention and support were major topics of discussion. Appalachian Teachers’ Association Union President Timothy Croteau raised concerns about the board’s new policy of denying unpaid leave requests unless mandated by collective agreements. He explained that teachers struggling with personal challenges were feeling unsupported. “We get a lot of feedback from teachers stating, ‘I can only do 80 per cent mentally this year because of a sick spouse or a sick child,’” he said.
The board committed to reviewing the policy and exploring ways to better support its educators. “We want to ensure teachers feel valued and recognized for the essential work they do,” Murray said.
Upgrading facilities across the region
In addition to water distribution repairs at Alexander Galt Regional High School and other projects, the board approved $102,368 for biannual heating system inspections at all schools over a three-year period. These inspections are critical to maintaining safe and functional environments for students and staff.
Inclusive education for students
Support for students with hearing impairments was reinforced through a renewed agreement with the Montreal Oral School for the Deaf. The $73,500 contract will provide services for 21 students and their school teams, ensuring they have the resources needed to thrive. Commissioners described the agreement as essential for meeting the needs of a diverse student population.
Strengthening parent-school collaboration
Improved turnout at parent-teacher interviews this year was a highlight. Director General Kandy Mackey noted that some schools reported participation levels not seen since before the pandemic. “This collaboration between home and school is vital to student success,” she said, adding that parent engagement plays a significant role in fostering student achievement.
Professional development for educators
The board approved a six-day professional development program focused on mathematics education. Led by experts from the University of Central Florida, the training aims to align teaching practices between elementary and secondary schools and improve student outcomes. “This initiative will help align teaching methods and boost students’ confidence in math,” a commissioner explained. The training will also build capacity among teachers, administrators, and consultants.
The meeting, held in person in Magog but with the majority of participants attending virtually, lasted nearly two hours and was adjourned near 9 p.m.