Editor:

One voice noticeably absent in the recent debate between the provincial government and the BCTF is the voice of teachers who actually care about the kids. The teachers who show up long before instructional time actually begins and leave long after the school day is done.

I don't know every teacher in the district, but I have had intimate experience with one: Jake Mouritzen at G.W. Graham. Jake has coached my brother Micah, now playing at Trinity Western University, and he currently coaches my youngest brother Josiah, and will be taking their senior boys basketball team to provincials this week (as noted in the Times' sports section). Most days one can find Jake arriving early in the morning to open up the gym to provide extra practice time for G.W. Graham basketball players and then staying late for afternoon or evening practices.

I remember my high school basketball career and how those experiences taught me about interpersonal relationships, discipline, and how to win and lose well.

Jake has provided a similar atmosphere for both of my brothers and many of their friends. He cares about the kids and that is reflected by his actions, and not just by his words or any sign he has to carry on the "sticket" line.

The fact that Jake and G.W. Graham has to get approval from Kathryn Midzain and the Chilliwack Teachers Association to go to AA Provincials next weekend in Kamloops astounds me. They have earned their spot in provincials by their hard work and play on the basketball court, not by the approval of some union official.

Go Grizzlies! Grizzle Up!

Jeremy Cockrill Chilliwack