(November 26, 2021) – Barry Petten, PC Official Opposition Shadow Minister for Education and MHA for Conception Bay South, today concurred with the recommendations from the Child and Youth Advocate, Ms. Jackie Lake-Kavanagh, which calls for a Code of Conduct for teachers, including process, policies and public accountability.

Petten was responding to a news release from the Advocate on Thursday which calls for a Code of Conduct and a thorough, defined process for how to treat non-criminal complaints. Unlike other professional associations, teachers do not have an independent complaints process and disciplinary mechanism.

“Students are among the most vulnerable in our society and deserve every protection both outside and inside the classroom,” said Petten.

“We have seen a number of cases moving through the courts lately, but we must ensure all complaints, whether criminal or not, are subject to a thorough, professional, independent process. This must start with a Code of Conduct.”

Petten agreed with Lake-Kavanagh that teachers occupy positions of power and trust with students, their families and the community.

“I urge the Government to move forward with regulatory or legislative changes without delay. There should be no greater priority for the Minister than protecting our children,” said Petten.

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