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Attention, class. Today, we are going to talk about planning. To be more specific, how to plan a new course for the education system that will ensure our children are given the best possible instruction in schools.
Oh, if only it could be that simple. The education system in British Columbia has become so charged with political manoeuvring that it is hard to find a path that will work for everyone.
True, the provincial government promised that it would protect education, along with health, through the downturn. September's budget held the line on education funding and even included an expansion -- $151 million over the next two years to launch full-day kindergarten.
It's a good idea, but bad timing.
The main problem is that school boards are already in a tight financial squeeze. Salaries and costs keep rising faster than the amount of money available and local trustees have no control over any of those factors. Their only choice is to trim here, cut there and slash over there.
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The numbers are scary: Trustees in Greater Victoria are looking at a deficit of about $5 million, while in Saanich the shortfall will be about $2.6 million. Every year, it becomes more difficult to find new areas to chop. And don't forget that the provincial government told school districts that it would not cover the cost of maintenance last year.
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And into this, the provincial government has tossed the notion of full-day kindergarten. The proposal is worth pursuing, but so far the government has shown a disregard for the details that are crucial to its success.
Parents and taxpayers need answers to many questions. Where will the children spend their time? Who will teach them? How will full days be different from half-days -- more of the same, or new ideas?
Child care operators need answers, too. Where will children go before and after their time in school?
And don't forget the province is looking to expand its educational reach even farther, bringing three- and four-year-olds into the system in the future. Will these students be taught by licensed teachers or early childhood educators? Again, what does that do to the existing day cares?
There is still time to make plans for the extension of the school system to younger ages.
But the full-day kindergarten is coming this fall and will add to the burden on a system already caught in a squeeze.
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At the very least, the government could make the switch easier for all concerned. It could start by providing enough money to school boards and enough information to parents.
It's not that hard -- as long as you do your homework.
- reprinted from the Victoria Times-Colonist