Editor,
I am writing to express my concern and disappointment regarding the recent closure of the South Surrey White Rock Learning Centre, an essential alternate school for students in grades 10 to 12. This decision has deeply affected students and families who rely on this school for the unique and personalized educational opportunities it provides.
For many students, the Learning Centre has been a place of hope and second chances offering an environment where they can succeed despite challenges in traditional school settings. The centre provides tailored programs for those who may have struggled in mainstream schools, allowing them to continue their education in a more supportive and flexible environment.
The closure of this important facility will leave a significant gap for these students, many of whom have been relying on the centre's unique approach to education to complete their high school journey. For students who need smaller class sizes, individualized attention, or alternative methods of learning, the Learning Centre has been an invaluable resource.
At the recent school board meeting, a group of concerned students spoke passionately about how the district failed to follow the School Act clause that governs the closure of schools. It was pointed out that the district did not adhere to the legal requirements outlined in the School Act, nor did it follow its own policy for consultation and community engagement before deciding to close the Learning Centre.
These students raised critical points about the lack of transparency and the failure to consider the real impact on their education and well-being. It is disheartening to see the district disregard the voices of those most affected by this decision.
I would like to commend the students who presented at the board meeting for standing up and speaking out for their rights. They showed incredible courage and determination in advocating for the educational needs of themselves and their peers.
It is inspiring to see students take action and fight for what they believe in. These young people deserve recognition for their commitment to preserving opportunities for students who rely on the Learning Centre.
However, what is most troubling is that not one member of the board took a moment to commend these students for their dedication to such an important cause. Their efforts to stand up for what’s right should have been acknowledged, but instead, they were ignored.
One can’t help but wonder if there is more behind this closure than meets the eye. The Learning Centre has been an invaluable resource to so many, so it’s hard to believe that this decision is simply a matter of practicality. Somebody must have a real vendetta against this school, and it raises the question of whether personal motivations are influencing decisions that affect the futures of so many students. The lack of transparency and the disregard for the community’s concerns suggest that this closure may not have been made with the students’ best interests in mind.
In addition, trustee Laurie Larsen’s comments at the board meeting about her personal experience with her granddaughter attending the Learning Centre demonstrate a troubling lack of consideration for the diverse needs of all students. While personal experiences are important, they should not be the basis for decisions that affect an entire community. Trustee Larsen’s decision to use her own family experience in this context is not appropriate and goes against what elected board members are supposed to do—represent the broader interests of all students. She should publicly apologize for her statement and recognize that not all students have the same experience. Taking into consideration of the many stories from students it’s clearly evident that a Learning Centre environment helped students move forward in life and also pushed them towards various career opportunities.
The key word in “trustee” is trust, and this board has lost that trust. The actions taken, the lack of transparency, and the disregard for students’ voices have left the community questioning whether this board is truly serving the needs of those it was elected to represent.
The school board must step up, take responsibility for its actions, and correct this mistake. If they are unable or unwilling to do so, they should consider stepping down and making room for those who will prioritize the needs of students and the community.
I urge local leaders, school board officials, and decision-makers to reconsider this decision and find a way to reopen or relocate the Learning Centre. This school plays a crucial role in helping students who are at risk of falling behind or dropping out, and its closure would be a major loss for the community.
Thank you.
Erna Brkich
