Scarborough

February 12 2011 9:40am (4 hours ago)

Hello, Hina:

My name is Evalyn Chau, and I am the successor to Mrs Jane Fulton, your former supervisor. I want to extend a warm greeting to you as I enter my new position. I am aware of the unfortunate circumstances in which Mrs Fulton was dismissed and the details re: the disagreement between you. I want to express my heartfelt sadness that such discrimination would take place. I also want to get to know you and to ensure that we start our relationship as supervisor-facilitator off on the right foot!

I have read in great detail the numerous letters sent to the union in response to the situation with Mrs Fulton. As you may know, community members living in the Kingston/Galloway area who you have served at the centre this school year wrote letters in support of your character and your positive effect on their lives. I was moved to tears.

I have seen numerous signed petitions in support of a change in policy. But the fully written letters in support of your case against Mrs Fulton are noteworthy.

One letter in particular had my attention with every word.

To Whom It May Concern:

My name is Marie Beaudoin and I, along with my children Sylvie and Johnny, attend the literacy centre regularly. This centre is located within the Rouge Hill Public School.

I could tell you that we attend the centre because I need a place for my youngest, Johnny, to play, especially since he has developmental issues.

But truthfully, we use it as a place to be normal and to have something to eat, mainly breakfast, so that my Sylvie can attend class with a full stomach.

When I met Ms Hina the first time, I was scared she may judge me for having these two hungry kids. But she never has.

Sylvie’s favourite breakfast is Crispix cereal, and Ms Hina always ensures she’s stocked up for us.

Being First Nations, we have enjoyed that there are at least three books in Ojibwa on the shelf. This is not our language, as I am Mi’kmaq, but it really matters to me that there are some books my kids can relate to.

We live in a shelter. This means it never feels right to put anything anywhere, because it’s not home yet.

But at the centre, Ms Hina always makes sure Sylvie can put her paintings up, and she’s welcome to the toys like they’re hers.

I know the disagreement between Ms Hina and her manager was because she felt Ms Hina was getting too personal with the folks here.

The truth is you can’t NOT get too personal with us. And let me tell you, there is DRAMA! Can’t help it. It’s Scarborough (lol).

Ms Hina is a very kind person who loves her job. Most importantly, she is honoured to do her job. Heck, I’m not honoured to be a parent sometimes. But Ms Hina is honoured to know us. Hardly anyone out here is honoured to know us folks. Most of us are dirt poor, and our parents are embarrassed by us. But Ms Hina is different.

I want to tell you to call me if you have any questions, but I don’t have a phone (lol). I guess you can see me at the centre if you want to discuss this letter with me.

Sincerely,

Marie Beaudoin

Hina, I applaud you for earning such a letter and for cultivating such meaningful relationships. You’re doing exactly what you’re supposed to be doing.

I see that you are attending the workshop re: introverted and extroverted children at the Professional Development Day next Friday. Can I treat you to lunch that day?

Great job, and bye for now.

Sincerely,

Evalyn