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DRAFT for Keating’s DRC letter to send to the June 8th committee who is making recommendations to enact the board’s decision to close the DRC

Thank you for your contributions.

Background: The DRC is a library devoted to literacy reading kits, Big Books, social responsibility videos, music CD’s and other curriculum based materials including videos, DVDs, models, charts, posters and prints. There are also a number of specialized collections such as First Nations collection, Christmas resources, and a Bonhomme Carnaval collection to name a few. With circulation at approximately 1,400 items per month, it is evident that the DRC is an integral part of Saanich schools. There is an estimated $500,000 of resources dedicated for student, staff and parent use. Position: Keating staff regrets the decision that the DRC be closed. The DRC ensures that all staff, students and parents throughout the district have equal access to effective resources. Of course the resources are a key component to our teaching. Without the resources there is a significant deficit in what we offer in our programs. Staff use the DRC not necessarily to enhance their programs but to provide balanced instruction. Closing the DRC does not reflect the high standards and enviable collegiality that Saanich School District is known for. Keating staff recommends Since the decision for the DRC closure is imminent and irrefutable/indisputable/incontrovertible/incontestable, it is Keating Elementary’s position that the planned dispersal/distribution of the DRC resources be delayed until a thorough assessment occurs. We concur with other letter writers who noted that our resources “are too valuable to let them quietly disappear” and “over the coming year we hope that a collaborative plan can be developed.” Keating teachers support the notion that the resources be stored to provide time for a thoughtful discussion to determine an outcome that ensures security to preserve the collection and equability for all stakeholders. We hope that by sacrificing the availability of the resources for the short term will ensure that they are not lost permanently. As for the laminating machine, Keating staff hopes that it can continue to be maintained, available and active for staff use. Laminating saves time as well as conserves the materials which eventually saves cost on labour and materials. With respect, Keating Teaching Staff Committee