A member of the Greater Victoria School District has resigned following allegations of systemic racism within the district.
Jordan Watters announced on social media that she has resigned as the school district’s board chair.
“I want to let you all know that I have resigned from my role as board chair. This is not a step I thought I would be taking, but I recognize the importance of aligning my values with my actions,” Watters said in a series of tweets.
The board has faced allegations of systemic racism ever since a presentation on their budget process earlier this year insinuated that proposed cuts to music programs were on the table because of a lack of Indigenous student participation.
SD61 had considered cuts to music programs for elementary and middle schools to deal with a massive $7 million shortfall, which drew protest from students, parents, and teachers alike.
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Watters said on Tuesday that she was asked by the Songhees, Esquimalt, Metis and urban Indigenous communities to resign.
“This past year has been very challenging on many levels. In particular, our Board has had to face some hard truths when it comes to our commitment to reconciliation [and] our relationships with the Four Houses: Songhees Nation, Esquimalt Nation, Métis & urban Indigenous Community,” said Watters.
“I hope my resignation, demonstrates my commitment to reconciliation & to healing the relationships between the district [and] the Indigenous communities we serve.”
Watters says she will remain as a trustee
A new board chair and vice-chair are expected to be elected next Monday during a public zoom meeting.
I want to let you all know that I have resigned from my role as Board Chair. This is not a step I thought I would be taking, but I recognize the importance of aligning my values with my actions. 1/5
— Jordan Watters (@JordanWatters_) August 3, 2021
CHEK News
