High school student criticizes lack of transparency at VSB

Christopher Lee, a Vancouver high school student, criticizes the Vancouver School Board (VSB) for a lack of transparency in its decision-making processes. He claims the board misuses private sessions to discuss significant policy issues without public oversight, which prevents accountability. During a recent public meeting, Lee felt unheard, prompting him to share recordings of VSB discussions online. The VSB defends its practice of private discussions, stating they are necessary for protecting individual privacy and negotiating contracts. The District Parent Advisory Council (DPAC) supports Lee’s call for transparency, with spokesperson Melanie Chang noting that the VSB does not meet the standards of other districts in engaging with the public.

She encourages students to share their experiences with public education and highlights a decline in opportunities for open dialogue within the VSB. Both Lee and Chang advocate for live-streaming all board meetings and making records of discussions publicly accessible. The VSB maintains that public meetings are live-streamed and recorded, with minutes available on its website.