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5 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 1998 THE NEW TANNER 7: Students are being "bullied" To the Editor: I was upset by Michael O'Leary's insinuation that teachers are responsible for the outburst of "booing" aimed at Mike Harris at the Mandela and the Children gathering at the Skydome on Sept. 25. [Even more mind boggling were some teach- ers' claims that this was a spontaneous demonstration by the students. Sure, and I believe in the tooth fairy."] I was at that presentation and it saddened me to see Mr. Harris, clearly embarrassed, being booed in front of such an accomplished statesman as Nelson Mandela. How- ever, despite the dislike Imay personally have for the present Government of On- tario and for Mr. Harris, I would never encourage my students to show disrespect for the Premier of our prov- ince, or for that matter, any- one. I would never consider fomenting political discon- tent among my students, that "captive audience" that peo- ple like yourself believe teachers have at their dis- posal. Instead, let's consider the current government's re- lationship with the students of this province. For about three years, the students of Ontario have heard nothing but negativity from the Premier. Regularly, he publicly states how they aren't making the grade. Last week, in a speech to business leaders, he continued to at- tack the intelligence and skill level of Ontario school chil- dren, stating that they know ~ very little grammar. Students are not the stu- Harris constantly implies they are. Nor are they all un- disciplined and ill-man- nered. They are capable, in- teresting, and perceptive young people who are tired of being "bullied" by the Pre- mier of Ontario. They are tired of hearing of how they | aren't able to do things and how awful their teachers are. They can remember the happier days before this gov- a ernment "created a crisis" in Ontario. If Mr. Harris had been a "real" teacher, then he would know that belittling students does not yield posi- tive results. Bullies "get it" sooner or later. He has earned their wrath and with it every single boo in the Skydome on that day. B. Pryslak, Acton GUIDES GALORE: The Acton Guiding move- ment is ready to kick off another season of pro- viding fun and leadership to local girls. As their parents took care of the registration paperwork last Wednesday at St. Alban's Church these Sparks, Brownies and Guides checked out the uniform exchange. Front left: Guide Paige Lewis, Brownie Carleigh Lewis, and Spark Katie Brennan. Back: Co-commissioner Linda Ellis For better grades this fall, better call Sylvan now. Sylvan Learning Centre® can help your child make the grades. In our positive, stress-free environment, children actually become excited about learning. You can see it on their faces -- and on their report cards. ; Sylvan® offers help in reading, writing, math, algebra, study skills, homework support and time management. To learn how Sylvan can benefit your child, call today. Syivan Learning Centre 2. Helping kids be their best. Established 1987 Education Finance Plan Available From $125 per month 27 Woodlawn Rd. W. Guelph READING ¢ MATH © WRITING © STUDY SKILLS * SCHOOL READINESS UNIVERSITY PREPARATION * ALGEBRA * BEGINNING READING and Guides Trisha Bingeman and Jennifer ? : Te RACEWAY ¢ MOHAWK RACEWAY ¢ MOHAWK RACEWAY « NMOHAWE FALL FAIR FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23 AND SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28 OVER 40 EXCITING CRAFT VENDORS AND FAMILY ENTERAINMENT ¢ Pottery & Ceramics ° Petting Zoo a eK tol aat ye ° The Fiddling Hayseeds ¢ Explore and Discover our Heritage Farm Crafts -- Spinning & Weaving ¢ How fo turn straw into Hats & Baskets ¢ How to make Corn Husk Dolls Featuring Six Nations Ho Denoshonee Dancers (People of the Long Bark House) EXCITING HARNESS RACING : , ia. pid individuals that Mr. ¢ Sewing crafts ¢ Kandy Korner e Native crafts *Home baked goods (pies & bread) *Christmas ornaments Parking ane admission are always For More Information please call 1-800-675-RACE or (4 16)675-RACE ask for promotions Mohawk Raceway uelph Line north of Hwy. 401 #