Dear Editor,
I was part of the rally in Okotoks on April 13 and so was my daughter, Bellamee, who wanted to come along to support her EAs for all they do to support her at school.
The support they show is way more than just education; they boost her confidence and show her she’s capable. Teaching her more than just a curriculum, they teach resilience, respect and so much more.
I’m a firm believer in the saying “it takes a village to raise a child” and they absolutely help to support and raise Bellamee and other children in their care.
EAs play a vital role within the school system and while we equally appreciate teachers and other support staff within the school system, EAs help children to fit in and be inclusive with their peers, teaching other children empathy and respect to those that may appear “different” within the community around them.
I don’t believe any person deserves to struggle with basic needs in life. Given the effort members of the school team pour into our children on a daily basis, they definitely should not have to feel the pressure of not knowing where their families’ meals are going to come from each day/week/month.
The government should absolutely be doing more to support its people.
Heather Tossell
